St Luke’s Church

Journey back to 1933 with me, to the bustling heart of Oxford’s Cold Harbour. Imagine the scene: children playing in the streets, the clatter of horse-drawn carts, and the rising need for a spiritual home for this growing community. This need led to the founding of St Luke’s Church. St Luke’s Church started as a humble mission hall, built under the watchful eye of St Matthew’s Church on Marlborough Road. The Reverend Stather-Hunt, a dynamic vicar with a passion for his community, spearheaded the project. He recognized the importance of a dedicated space for the children of Cold Harbour, a place where they could learn and grow in their faith. Fundraising began in 1930. The community rallied together, organizing sales, collecting donations, and even using special lenten boxes to gather the necessary funds. St Luke’s Church was a true community effort. The church’s construction, finally started in July 1933, was a testament to their dedication. The building itself was a practical structure, designed with timber frames, asbestos lining, and a roof of asbestos tiling. It may not have been grand, but it was filled with the spirit of the community. On St Luke’s Day, October 18th, 1933, the church opened its doors. The pulpit and holy table, gifts from St Matthew’s, symbolized the connection between the two churches. St Luke’s Church quickly became a vital part of Cold Harbour. In the 1940s, it served as a baby weighing clinic, a meeting place for young mothers, and a hub for youth clubs. Generations of children have passed through its doors, finding community and guidance within its walls. In 2013, St Luke’s Church underwent a significant transformation. This “Big Project” saw the building extended and refreshed. This allowed the church to better serve the community. Today, St Luke’s continues to stand as a beacon of faith and community in Oxford. It represents the enduring power of collective effort and the unwavering dedication of individuals like Reverend Stather-Hunt.