Is it possible for a church to be both old and relatively new? That is the story of St Matthias Colindale. St Matthias the Apostle Church stands as a testament to faith in Colindale London.
This Anglican church is not just a building. It represents a community’s enduring spirit. The original church now serves as the church hall. The current building was constructed between 1971 and 1973. Humphrys and Hurst were the architects.
St Matthias is located on Rushgrove Avenue. It falls under the local authority of Barnet. As part of the Church of England, it is in the Diocese of London.
Let’s delve into the history of St Matthias. The church serves the parish of Colindale. It operates within the West Barnet Deanery. It is overseen by the Hampstead Archdeaconry.
Weekday Mass is held at St Matthias Colindale. Services take place every Wednesday and Saturday at 10 a.m. Each service lasts about 30 minutes. However, times may vary. Check the weekly news sheet on stmatthiasnw9.org for the most up-to-date schedule. The Eucharist is celebrated at each mass.
Before this modern St Matthias Colindale was built, there was another St Matthias. The St Matthias Old Church has a rich history. It was originally built as Poplar Chapel in 1654 by the East India Company. It is one of the few churches built during the Commonwealth era.
Robert Shirley and William Milford Teulon designed St Matthias Old Church. The East India Company bought a house in Poplar High Street in 1627. It was used as a hospital for disabled seamen. In 1633, residents requested a chapel because St Dunstan’s, Stepney was too far.
Construction began in 1652. John Tanner, Master of the Bricklayers’ Company, was the principal builder. The burial ground was allotted in 1657.
The architecture combines Classical and Gothic elements. Eight Tuscan columns support the barrel-vaulted roof. In the 18th century, a tower was added in 1718. Richard Jupp made repairs and alterations to the windows in 1775–1776.
The chapel was used for prayers before voyages. Many migrants to British North America attended these services. It also served as the chapel for Poplar Pensioners.
Following the Indian Rebellion of 1857, Poplar Chapel became St Matthias. William Milford Teulon made substantial changes from 1867 to 1876. Stained glass windows with masonic imagery were installed in 1920.
In the 1970s, St Matthias merged with St Anne’s, Limehouse. St Matthias’ building was declared redundant in 1977. In 1990, English Heritage and the London Docklands Development Corporation restored it. In 1992, the St Matthias Conservation Trust was set up. It preserves the building as a community center.
St Matthias Colindale and its predecessor, St Matthias Old Church, have unique stories. They reflect changing times and the enduring presence of the church. As we conclude our visit to St Matthias Colindale, remember that this place stands as a symbol of community. It is a beacon of faith that evolves to serve its people.