Think of Bromley in 1941. The Bromley Blitz was raging. Bombs rained down. One struck Bromley Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul. The church was almost completely destroyed. Only the tower remained standing. Today we will explore this church’s fascinating story.
Bromley Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul has a long history. Records show a church here as early as 1126. The first recorded rector was Richard de Wendover. He served from 1226 to 1238. He later became Bishop of Rochester. He was even buried in Westminster Abbey.
Over the centuries, the church was rebuilt several times. In 1327, it was rebuilt in the Gothic style. By the 18th century, further restoration was needed. A new church building was constructed in 1824. However, the tower was retained.
Then came the devastating night of April 16, 1941. The Bromley Blitz destroyed much of the church. After the war, Bromley Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul was one of the first to be rebuilt. Princess Elizabeth laid the foundation stone in 1949. She later became Queen Elizabeth II. The new church was designed by F. Harold Gibbons. It was dedicated in 1957 by the Bishop of Rochester. Local materials were used in the rebuilding including flints.
The tower is the only part of the medieval church that still survives. Some medieval memorials were salvaged. They can now be seen inside the church.
Look closely at the pulpit. It depicts the four evangelists. It was a gift from the Bishop’s Men of the Diocese of Rochester in New York State. Look for the two church mice. These are the trademark of Robert Thompson’s workshop. Now for a little secret. On the side nearest the choir is a small carving. It is a gibbon scratching its head. This is a reference to the architect J Harold Gibbons.
Notice the baptistry at the rear of the nave. The font is of Norman origin. It provides a major link with the past. The window above the font is inspiring. It welcomes children to the church.
Many stained glass windows adorn Bromley Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul. Several of the modern windows were designed by M. E. Aldrich Rope. She was an Arts and Crafts stained glass artist. The Baptistery window is by Clare Dawson. She was Rope’s pupil.
Bromley Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul also has a rich musical history. The organ was built in 1991. It has three manuals and pedals. It also has 40 speaking stops. The organ weighs approximately 12 tons.
Many famous people are buried here. They include John Yonge, Bishop of Rochester. Elizabeth Johnson is also buried here. She was the wife of Samuel Johnson. Her memorial was salvaged after the war. It was re-erected in the rebuilt church. Samuel Johnson visited the church in 1753. He came to say goodbye to his wife. Other notable figures include John Hawkesworth, Zachary Pearce and John Gifford.
Bromley Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul stands as a testament to resilience. It is a place of worship. It is a landmark in Bromley. It connects the past with the present. It offers solace and inspiration to all who enter its doors. It rose from the ashes. It continues to serve the community.