“A classic of the Romanesque Revival.” That’s how some describe St Margaret’s Scottish Episcopal Church in Newlands, Glasgow. This iconic building stands in a commanding position. It offers a warm welcome to all.
St Margaret’s has a rich history. It began as a mission of St Ninian’s Church in 1898. The first service occurred in shop premises in November 1898. Sir John Stirling Maxwell donated the current church site in 1908.
Peter MacGregor Chalmers designed the church. His vision included a church hall. It was built by November 1908. The foundation stone was laid by Robert Alexander Ogg. Work then started on the nave, side aisles, and the base of the bell tower. The western apse was also built. All were complete by 1912.
In 1915, a change of plans occurred. It was decided to build a tower rather than a spire. Work on the chancel and Lady Chapel started in 1922. Gordon Galloway designed these additions. St Margaret was officially dedicated in 1923. Consecration followed on Christmas Day 1928. The bell tower finally reached completion in 1935.
Inside St Margaret’s, beauty abounds. The double apses depict Christ in Glory. They also show the Descent of the Holy Spirit. These are crafted in fine and colourful mosaic. Stained glass adds to the ambience. Three modern windows are by John Clark. The attractive oak pulpit enhances the warmth. So do the choir stalls and organ casing.
Let’s explore the western apse. It serves as the Baptistery. A mosaic floor marks the church’s Golden Jubilee in 1958. The mosaics represent children of the congregation. They depict objects associated with childhood. The apse mosaic shows the descent of the Holy Spirit.
Three stained glass windows grace this space. Morris & Co. created them. They depict the Annunciation. Also, the Baptism of Christ is shown. Finally, Christ blessing children appears. These were installed between 1923 and 1926. The Italian marble baptismal font dates to 1912. It features an angel holding a scallop shell.
The north aisle holds more treasures. Stained glass windows depict the beatitudes. James Powell and Sons made some in the 1930s. Gordon Webster created others between 1950 and 1960.
In the east apse, discover the chancel apse mosaic. James Powell and Sons designed it in 1927. It presents Christ in Glory. He sits on a throne over a rainbow. The Four Evangelists surround him. Also present are the Seraphim, four Archangels, and the Heavenly host.
The high altar dates to 1920. Peter MacGregor Chalmers designed it in Romanesque style. Gordon Galloway designed the Austrian oak choir. These were completed in 1923, including the pulpit. The organ case was finished in 1924. The Bishop’s chair came in 1926. Blackett and Howden created the organ. It was dedicated in 1924.
Stained glass windows here include The Transfiguration. Also, The Ascension of Christ by James Powell and Sons. The Crucifixion is another plus. It also features The Adoration of the Magi and The Resurrection of Christ by Morris & Co. St John by Gordon Webster and Abraham by Hugh McCulloch complete the scene.
The south aisle boasts more stained glass. Christ commissions his disciples by James Powell and Sons. Saint Margaret of Scotland is by the St. Enoch Studio. Simeon by Gordon Webster features as well. Saint Thomas by Roland Mitton, Gethsemane by John Clark, and the Last Supper plus The supper at Emmaus by John Clark are all here.
Finally, visit the Lady Chapel. It sits on the eastern side of the chancel. Stained glass windows depict the life of Saint Margaret of Scotland. James Powell and Sons crafted these. They were installed and dedicated in 1930.
St Margaret’s offers regular services. Sung Eucharist occurs at 10.30 am on Sundays. Eucharist takes place at 10.00 am on Tuesdays. Another Eucharist happens at 7.00 pm on Thursdays.
St Margaret’s stands as a testament to faith. Its beauty and history make it a special place in Glasgow. Its Romanesque style and detailed artwork offer a serene and inspiring experience.