Look around. This striking Grade II listed building before you is St Michael and All Angels, London Fields. It stands as a testament to faith and community. Its story is one of resilience, art, and devotion.
The story of St Michael and All Angels begins over 150 years ago. The first church was built in Lamb Lane. It stood to the east of London Fields. Consecrated in 1864, it served the parish faithfully. Sadly, bombing in 1945 irreparably damaged the Victorian church.
But the community’s spirit remained unbroken. A new St Michael’s rose from the ashes. Consecrated in February 1961, this current building embodies hope.
Nugent F. Cachmaille-Day designed St Michael and All Angels. His architectural vision reflects the Liturgical Movement. This movement influenced church design. The design emphasizes the participation of the congregation in the service.
John Hayward embellished the church with his artwork. His murals, stained glass, and sculptures add to the joyful atmosphere. Hayward’s art creates a reverent sense of God. It places God at the heart of the London Fields community.
The parish of St Michael’s includes the former parish of St. Paul’s Haggerston. St. Paul’s church was built in 1860. It faced Marlborough Avenue. Today, St. Paul’s with St Michael’s School occupies that site. St. Paul’s church closed and was demolished around 1970. In 1971, St Paul’s parish united with St Michael’s. Together, they formed the united benefice. The official title is St Michael & All Angels London Fields with St. Paul’s Haggerston.
St Michael’s is more than just a building. It’s a community. The church is open to all. It welcomes everyone in Christ’s name. St Michael’s values diversity. It aspires to be open to God and to all people.
Eucharist is central to the congregation’s identity. The weekly service happens each Sunday at 10am. It is also livestreamed.
St Michael’s is accessible to all. It has step-free access and WC facilities for wheelchair users. A hearing loop is installed. Free WiFi is available. The Parish Disability Policy promotes full participation.
The church is open most Wednesdays. It welcomes visitors seeking prayer and quiet. In cold weather, the church provides a warm space. Books are available for borrowing.
The church hall is a resource for community groups. It also has step-free access and WiFi.
St Michael’s values community partnerships. They work with St. Paul’s with St Michael’s School. They support Hackney Foodbank and other organizations.
Caring for God’s creation is a priority. St Michael’s has earned a Bronze Eco Church Award. They are working toward a Silver Certificate.
St Michael’s depends on the generosity of its community. Contributions support the church’s mission.
Safeguarding is taken seriously. Policies are in place to protect children and vulnerable adults.
St Michael and All Angels stands as a beacon of faith. It is a testament to community spirit. Its doors are open to all. It welcomes everyone to share in its worship and activities. May it bless you on your life’s journey.