St Barnabas Church

Gazing up at St Barnabas Church, have you ever noticed its unusual square tower? It’s not your typical English church spire. St Barnabas Church, nestled in Jericho, Oxford, is a testament to Victorian philanthropy and Anglo-Catholic tradition. The church was built to serve the working-class community of Jericho, particularly those employed at the nearby Oxford University Press. Thomas Combe, the superintendent of the press, and his wife, Martha, funded its construction in 1869. Their vision was a place of worship that catered to the spiritual and practical needs of the poor. Sir Arthur Blomfield, the architect, drew inspiration from Romanesque basilicas, perhaps San Clemente in Rome or Santa Maria Assunta in Torcello, giving St Barnabas a unique architectural character. The distinctive square campanile, an Italian-style bell tower, stands tall, a beacon visible from across Jericho. Inside, the church reflects the Combes’ support for the Oxford Movement. The interior is dignified, with a focus on ritual and sacrament. Look for the intricate walnut pulpit added in 1887, its panels painted by Charles Floyce. Above the nave, a large iron cross hangs, a design element borrowed by Thomas Hardy for his novel, “Jude the Obscure.” Notice the stunning cut-glass mural on the north wall. This “opus sectile” artwork depicts scenes from the Te Deum Laudamus hymn. Interestingly, the south wall remains undecorated due to budget constraints. Over time, St Barnabas played a key role in Jericho’s survival. In the 1960s, the area faced demolition. The then vicar, Fr. Ovington, led community opposition, successfully preserving Jericho’s residential character. Today, St Barnabas Church still stands as a vibrant hub, hosting concerts, lectures, and exhibitions. The church remains open to visitors, offering a glimpse into Victorian faith and community spirit. It’s a place where the echoes of the Oxford Movement still resonate, a reminder of a time when faith and social responsibility went hand in hand.