Imagine a phoenix rising. St Mark’s Hall is currently undergoing a transformation of sorts, much like that mythical bird.
St Mark’s Hall has a rich history. The original St Mark’s Church was consecrated in 1847. The Bishop of London officiated. The church has a history of education and literary connections. It has mostly maintained moderate, non-partisan churchmanship. Financial matters and building upkeep have always been a challenge. This was true in the 19th century with pew-renting congregations and remains so today.
St Mark’s was built for the new villa residents. These people came to live on what was once the rural edge of London. St Mark’s was closely linked to St John’s School in Leatherhead. It also played a part in the creation of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice” books. A church was needed in this new area in the early 1840s. A small temporary building was erected. It served as an outpost of Christ Church, Marylebone. In 1846, the freehold of the site was purchased for £600. The sellers were trustees of Harrow School. The construction of St Mark’s cost £9,300 at the time. The architects were Thomas Cundy and his son, also named Thomas.
Tragedy struck overnight on January 26th and 27th, 2023. A fire destroyed most of the interior of St Mark’s Hall. However, the walls and tower are still standing. A major rebuilding project is planned. It will begin as soon as possible.
Today, St Mark’s Hall is more than just a building. The community hall has been refurbished. It is available for rent. It can host many activities. Classes, parties, and concerts can take place here. Contact Angela at hall@stmarks.london to book the hall.
Currently, services continue as much as possible. You can attend coffee with Jesus on Tuesdays at 9.30am. This is morning prayer over coffee. There is also a midweek informal Mass followed by coffee at noon. Mindfulness is held in the Green Room on Thursdays at 6.15pm. A BCP Eucharist follows at 7.00pm. Parish Mass is held in the main hall on Sundays at 10.30am.
Archaeologists have been working carefully at St Mark’s Hall. They have found fragments of mosaic tiles and stained glass. These pieces have been removed for safekeeping. Conservators will assess what can be retained or reused.
The Community Audit is complete. It will be used to create the architect’s brief. Architects will then be invited to submit designs. The rebuilding process will begin. The goal is to rebuild for the next century. The existing walls will be used. The tower should remain intact.
St Mark’s Hall continues to serve its community. Despite the fire, it is a place for worship, events, and support. It is a testament to the resilience. It is a place where history and community intertwine. It is a building and a symbol of hope. A phoenix ready to rise again.