St Augustine of Canterbury Church

St Augustine of Canterbury Church, located in Barkingside, Ilford, is a Roman Catholic parish within the Diocese of Brentwood. Established in 1951, the church has a rich history and serves as a spiritual center for the local community.

The current church building, designed by architect David Rodney Burles, was constructed in the early 1950s. The foundation stone was laid on 25 October 1953, and the church was officially opened by Bishop Beck on 6 March 1955. The design is in the Early Christian style, featuring a longitudinal plan with an aisled nave, a slim bell tower at the northwest, and a sacristy with a small meeting room at the east. The building is constructed with plum-coloured stock brick laid in English bond, complemented by a pantiled roof and tiled details in the elevations. (taking-stock.org.uk)

In 1979-80, a significant reordering was undertaken by architect Austin Winkley of Williams & Winkley. This £43,000 project created a weekday chapel within the original chancel and introduced new confessionals. Portland stone furnishings were installed, and the church was consecrated by Bishop Casey on 29 April 1980. (taking-stock.org.uk)

The interior of the church is notable for its simplicity and elegance. The nave runs straight into the chancel, with arcades on solid masonry piers and clerestory windows. The Lady Chapel, completed around 1930 by Henry Wilson, features a barrelled roof. The east end was remodeled in 1925 by J. Harold Gibbons following a fire, with a new organ gallery replacing three original bays. The altar and reredos panelling, completed in 1938 by Adrian Scott, and the altar front by Linthout of Bruges, add to the church's artistic heritage. (historicengland.org.uk)

The church offers a range of services to cater to the spiritual needs of its congregation. Masses are held on Saturdays at 6:30 pm and on Sundays at 9:00 am and 11:00 am. Confessions are available on Saturdays from 5:45 pm to 6:15 pm and by appointment. Adoration takes place on the first Friday of each month from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the Rosary is recited after each weekday morning mass. (staugustinescatholicchurch.co.uk)

The parish is actively involved in community outreach and charitable activities. A food bank collection supports refugees and asylum seekers, who often rely entirely on external assistance. The church also participates in various diocesan events, such as the Diocesan Pilgrimage to Walsingham and Lourdes, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual growth among parishioners. (staugustinescatholicchurch.co.uk)

For those interested in visiting or learning more about the church, the parish office can be contacted at 020 8554 3568 or via email at [email protected]. The church's website provides additional information on services, events, and community initiatives. (staugustinescatholicchurch.co.uk)