To Christ The Redeemer. That’s what the inscription on the cornice of Our Most Holy Redeemer declares. This late 19th-century church stands in Clerkenwell. It is a testament to Anglo-Catholic tradition within the Church of England.
Our Most Holy Redeemer sits at the junction of Exmouth Market and Rosebery Avenue. It is located in the London Borough of Islington. The church is a Grade II-listed building. This includes the attached clergy house. It also includes the campanile and parish hall.
The story of Our Most Holy Redeemer began in 1888. J. D. Sedding designed this Italianate church. After his death, Henry Wilson completed it from 1892 to 1895. Initially, the church comprised only the left building. The campanile tower and clergy house were added in 1906.
Inside Our Most Holy Redeemer, the design echoes Brunelleschi’s Santo Spirito in Florence. F. W. Pomeroy did the sculptural carving. The baldacchino adds to the interior’s beauty.
Today, Our Most Holy Redeemer remains active. It stands within the Traditional Catholic tradition. The Bishop of Fulham provides alternative episcopal oversight.
Our Most Holy Redeemer offers various activities. Night Light is a monthly evening of worship. It includes live music. Mass starts at 6.30 pm. From 7 pm to 8 pm the Blessed Sacrament is displayed. People can light a candle. They can experience Christ’s presence. Alpha is another opportunity. People can explore the Christian faith in a relaxed setting. Each session discusses life, faith, and purpose.
The architecture of Our Most Holy Redeemer is remarkable. Historic England notes its significance. It represents a late C19 reaction against High Victorian Gothic. Sedding used the pure Italian Renaissance style. This created a monument to Aestheticism. Wilson’s additions are particularly fine. The parish-hall and campanile flank the facade cleverly. This complex was built in the heart of an Italian community. Together, these buildings form a remarkable group.
As you leave Our Most Holy Redeemer, consider its enduring presence. It is a place of worship. It’s a historical landmark. It’s a testament to faith and architectural vision in Clerkenwell.