Perhaps, like Father Ignatius Spencer, you approached St Joseph’s Church in disguise. He sought a home for the Passionists. This was in the mid-1850s. At that time, Catholics still faced suspicion. Prejudice was common in London and Highgate.
St Joseph’s Church stands as a testament to faith. It overcame many obstacles. Father Ignatius even had to inspect the Old Black Dog Inn in disguise. The owner once refused to sell. He dreamed “Papists” would buy it. An anti-Catholic riot occurred in Highgate High Street.
Buying the property was only the first hurdle for St Joseph’s. Funding construction proved difficult. Father Ignatius asked his nephew for help. His nephew was the fifth Earl Spencer. He restored an annuity that had been withheld. This annuity was £300 per year. It was originally for George Spencer who had converted to Catholicism.
Father Ignatius died in 1864. He did not see his work completed at St Joseph’s. The Catholic community grew quickly. A chapel attached to the pub was replaced in 1861. But even this became too small. Construction on the current St Joseph’s began May 24 1888. Brother Alphonsus Zeegers oversaw the construction. He worked in his habit and a stonemason’s apron.
The Bishop of Liverpool blessed St Joseph’s on November 21 1889. This was a triumph. However, a large debt remained for St Joseph’s. It took 43 years to repay. The community finally cleared the debt in 1932. The church was consecrated on April 28 1932.
Architect Albert Vicars designed St Joseph’s in a blend of Romanesque and Byzantine styles. The green copper dome dominates. It is a landmark seen across London. The dome weighs an estimated 2000 tons. St Joseph’s Retreat is attached to the east end. It houses the Passionist community.
Inside St Joseph’s, the high altar has a baldachino. It is made from Sicilian marble. The mosaic pavement in the sanctuary comes from the River Severn. It is said to be more durable than marble.
The segmental vaulted ceiling was painted by Nathaniel Westlake in 1891. It is considered one of his finest works. There are 250 panels. Each has an angel with a verse from the Te Deum.
William Hill & Sons built the four-manual organ in 1898. It was installed after World War II. It commemorates local victims of the war. The British Institute of Organ Studies awarded it a Grade I Certificate. They describe it as a rare example in original condition.
St Joseph’s continues to evolve. It serves as a vibrant parish. Its mission is to inspire spiritual maturity. It nurtures love for the Crucified Creation. It serves the common good.
Remember St Joseph. He was a compassionate man of faith. He was obedient to God’s will. He protected Jesus. St Joseph’s embodies these qualities. It offers a place of reflection. It is a beacon of hope for all.