The Friary

In 1224, two Franciscan friars arrived in Oxford, sent by St. Francis of Assisi himself. They established a teaching foundation that thrived for centuries. Now, fast forward to The Friary you see before you. This building echoes that Franciscan legacy, though its story takes a fascinating turn. The Friary wasn’t always a Franciscan house. It began as All Saints Convent, built in 1873 for the Anglican All Saints Sisters of the Poor. They served the adjacent St. John’s Home hospital, their convent a peaceful haven amidst the bustling city. The original architect was Charles Buckeridge. Later, the renowned John Loughborough Pearson contributed to the building’s expansion. And, adding a touch of artistic brilliance, Ninian Comper designed the chapel in 1906. This chapel stands as a testament to Comper’s skill, a quiet sanctuary within the larger complex. The Friary, with its connection to both Anglican and Franciscan orders, offers a glimpse into the layered history of faith and service in Oxford. In 2014, the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor Conventual, known as the Greyfriars, returned to Oxford. Their grey habits distinguished them from the Capuchin Franciscans, their brown-habited brethren already established at Greyfriars Hall on Iffley Road. The All Saints Sisters moved to a smaller residence nearby, and The Friary became a formation house for the Greyfriars. The circle, in a way, was complete. The Franciscan spirit had returned to Oxford, finding a home within the walls once dedicated to another order’s compassionate work. The Friary continues that legacy of service, standing beside Helen & Douglas House, a children’s hospice established by the All Saints Sisters. The Greyfriars offer their support to the hospice and other local organizations, their presence a reminder of the enduring power of faith and community. So, as you gaze upon The Friary, remember the threads of history woven within its stones. From Anglican sisters to Franciscan friars, this building has witnessed centuries of dedication and service, a quiet testament to the enduring spirit of Oxford.