Astonishing isn’t it? This magnificent structure before us is the Church of Christ the King. It stands as a testament to Victorian ambition and architectural prowess.
The Church of Christ the King in Gordon Square Bloomsbury has a rich history. Opened on Christmas Eve 1853 it served as the central cathedral for the Irvingites followers of Edward Irving. A controversial figure even in death Irving’s legacy lived on through this building.
Designed by John Raphael Rodrigues Brandon a member of the church itself the building is a masterpiece of Early English style. Constructed from Bath stone ashlar with tiled roofing it’s meticulously detailed. The scale is breathtaking. It was intended to be even larger with a 300-foot spire. That ambitious plan never fully materialized.
However the Church of Christ the King remains enormous. It’s often described as being on a cathedral scale a truly impressive statement of faith. The interior is equally impressive even more so than the exterior. A full-dress gallery sits above the arcades. A tall lancet clerestory soars towards the heavens. The nave is spacious even without the planned extensions. Look closely at the hammerbeam roof. Notice the angels and snowflake designs.
The choir too is spectacular. It’s on three levels with a multi-ribbed stone vault. Details are intricate and painstakingly crafted reflecting the style of Lincoln Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. Even the brass sanctuary lamp was designed by the renowned Augustus Pugin. The south transept rose window a breathtaking sight from the outside depicts a dove surrounded by angelic musicians. Lancets below showcase Christ in Majesty surrounded by saints and angels.
The Lady Chapel is particularly significant. It once served as the assembly place of the Apostles. It retains blank arcading and decorative carving. Large roof bosses add to its grandeur. The altar’s carvings depict key New Testament scenes the three wise men the risen Christ and the ascension.
The Church of Christ the King has served many purposes. It later served as a University Church for the University of London. This is rather ironic considering Irving left the university’s founding committee due to its lack of a dissenting ethos. Today it welcomes different denominations. The Anglican Euston Church uses it for Sunday services. The Forward in Faith movement uses the Lady Chapel for weekday services.
This building stands as a potent reminder of faith. It represents enduring architectural beauty. It is a symbol of history. The Church of Christ the King is a treasure. It is a London landmark you won’t soon forget.