St Ercowald’s RC Church

What secrets does St Ercowald’s RC Church hold? We’re standing before a building steeped in history. St Ercowald’s RC Church has witnessed the changing tides of Wembley for nearly a century. Let’s delve into its captivating story. St Ercowald’s began its journey in 1932. It was initially known as Wembley Park. The church served the burgeoning communities of Preston Park and Barn Hill. Before that, it was a part of St Joseph’s in Wembley. The very ground we stand on has its own tale to tell. Once part of South Forty Farm, the land was acquired by the Diocese in 1929. It was purchased from G Cloke of Neasden. The first parish mass, led by the inaugural Parish Priest, Fr Andrew Arthur, was celebrated on November 1, 1932. The current church building wasn’t always here. As the parish grew, a new church was needed. The foundation stone was laid on October 18, 1969, by Bishop Patrick Casey. The first service within these walls took place in June 1970. Years later, on January 21, 1979, Cardinal Hume consecrated St Ercowald’s. The church also supports several charitable organizations, like CAFOD, Laurence’s Larder, Caritas Westminster, The Passage, and Missio. The church’s namesake, St Erconwald, became Bishop of London in 675 AD. He served for eleven years. He was then appointed Archbishop of Canterbury. However, he died in Barking before assuming the role. He was buried in the old St Paul’s Cathedral, and his feast day is celebrated on April 24th. St Ercowald’s RC Church isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to faith, community, and the passage of time. As you leave here today, carry a piece of its story with you.