A relic of St Matthew rests within. That’s the hook isn’t it? This is St Matthew’s Church Westminster a place steeped in history and faith. Built between 1849 and 1851 by the renowned architect Sir George Gilbert Scott it stands as a testament to Gothic Revival architecture. It’s not just a pretty building though. St Matthew’s has a fascinating story.
Initially built to ease overcrowding at St John the Evangelist Church it was erected in the heart of a notorious slum. Devil’s Acre they called it. Imagine the contrast a beautiful church rising amidst poverty and squalor. The cost of the land alone was a staggering £6000. The peculiar L-shape of the building is a direct result of acquiring the land piecemeal.
Sadly a devastating fire in 1977 nearly destroyed St Matthew’s. Only the Lady Chapel survived. The church we see today was rededicated in 1984. Much smaller it retains the atmosphere of its predecessor. It also boasts some original stonework and rescued artifacts. This resilience speaks volumes about the unwavering faith of the community.
The interior is a treasure trove of artistry. Stained glass windows by W E Tower survived the fire. Some figures were salvaged and re-set in new positions. The 14 Stations of the Cross sculpted by Joseph Cribb a pupil of Eric Gill are a profound reflection on Christ’s journey to crucifixion. They serve as a powerful aid to prayer and contemplation.
The Lady Chapel is a masterpiece. It represents Sir Ninian Comper’s earliest work in England. The English altar with its riddel posts is a unique piece. It marks the first such altar since the Reformation. The chapel has been fully restored. It is used daily for prayer and masses. There is even a statue of Our Lady of Walsingham.
Adjacent to the chapel is the Reconciliation Room a quiet space for confessions and private reflection. St Michael’s Chapel houses a Bodley stone altar. A magnificent reredos by W E Tower depicting a plethora of saints and angels surrounds the Nativity scene. This is where the High Altar with its tabernacle is located. Here the Blessed Sacrament is reserved making Holy Communion available whenever needed. The altar also holds a significant relic of St Matthew himself.
So next time you find yourself near the Houses of Parliament or Westminster Abbey do take a moment to visit St Matthew’s Church. It’s more than just a place of worship. It’s a living testament to faith resilience and artistic brilliance. It is a window into London’s rich and often complex past. It is a story worth hearing worth experiencing worth remembering.