Have you ever wondered about the stories held within the walls of a cathedral? Today, we stand before the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of The Holy Family in Exile. This grand building, originally a Congregational church, has witnessed centuries of history and faith. It’s more than just a place of worship, a beacon for the Ukrainian community in London.
The Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of The Holy Family in Exile, located on Duke Street, was built in 1891. The architect, Alfred Waterhouse, designed it in a Romanesque style, using red brick and buff terracotta. The imposing structure once served the Congregational King’s Weigh House congregation. However, in 1967, the building was sold to the Ukrainian Catholics. It became the new headquarters for the apostolic exarchate formed in 1957 by Pope Pius XII.
The cathedral was renovated over the years to suit Catholic liturgy. Inside, you can admire an east window with glass by Robert Anning Bell and a confessional by J. F. Bentley from Westminster Cathedral. The iconostasis, created by a Ukrainian monk, Juvenalij Mokrytsky, survived a ceiling collapse in 2007 and continues to mesmerize visitors. Its intricate images recount stories of faith and devotion. This cathedral serves as a sanctuary for the Ukrainian people, providing comfort and hope.
The cathedral was elevated to the rank of an eparchy (full bishopric) in 2013. During the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of The Holy Family in Exile became a rallying point for the British Ukrainian community. The cathedral hosted addresses by political and religious figures, including the Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK and the All Party Parliamentary Group for Ukraine, both invited by Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski.
The cathedral’s significance transcends its architectural beauty and history. It is a testament to the resilience and unwavering faith of the Ukrainian people. As we stand before the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of The Holy Family in Exile, we are reminded of the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating the strength of cultures within London.