Beneath that towering spire lies a story of faith art and community at Christ Church, Southgate. This Church of England parish stands as a testament to enduring values. It proudly identifies as a liberal catholic Church of England parish.
Christ Church, Southgate has a rich history. Sir John Weld established the Weld Chapel in 1615. It served local worshippers. By the 19th century, the chapel proved too small. Rev James Baird saw the need for a new space. The Walker family generously donated land. Sir George Gilbert Scott designed Christ Church.
Consecration took place on July 17 1862. Bishop John Jackson officiated. The Weld Chapel was demolished in 1863. Its location is marked in the old churchyard.
Music has always been vital to Christ Church, Southgate. The tradition extends back to the Weld Chapel era. The choir sang at the first service. Choristers from St Paul’s Cathedral joined them. Originally for men and boys, it now includes adults and children. Martin Neary a renowned organist was once a member. The choir performs regularly. They sing at Sunday services and tour cathedrals.
Christ Church, Southgate boasts stunning stained glass. It holds London’s largest Pre-Raphaelite collection. Morris Marshall Faulkner & Company created these windows. Notable artists include Edward Burne-Jones and William Morris. The Faith & Hope window honors Letitia Catherine Hayes. She was the sister of John Laird Mair Lawrence. The great east window commemorates Vincent Figgins Jnr.
The reredos is a mosaic masterpiece. Antonio Salviati created it. John Clayton designed the cartoon. It mirrors the reredos in Westminster Abbey.
The Walker family has deep ties to Christ Church, Southgate. Their burial vault is in the churchyard. It holds the remains of the seven Walker cricketing brothers. The Taylor family also has a vault there. They co-founded the Taylor Walker Brewing Company. The Lady Chapel features wall paintings by Percy Bacon Brothers. They honor Issac and Sophia Walker and their children.
The First World War memorial lists 146 names. Charles Marriott Oldrid Scott designed it. It includes the sons of detective Frederick Porter Wensley. A Tricolore flag hangs inside. It commemorates Operation Squabble.
Many clergy members have served here. Angela Berners-Wilson was the first woman priest in the Church of England. She served as deaconess here.
Christ Church, Southgate is an Eco-church. It demonstrates care for God’s earth. They have received bronze and silver awards.
The architecture features Kentish ragstone. Bath stone dressings add detail. The tower has an octagonal broach spire. It rises 180 feet.
Step inside Christ Church, Southgate. Witness the art. Listen to the music. Reflect on its history. Consider the faith that built this vibrant community.