The Revd Henry Bailey came to Swindon in 1847. He found the existing parish church to be completely unsuitable. It was falling into disrepair and was too small for the growing population of Swindon. Imagine his introduction to his vision for a renewal – a proposal to sweep away, approaching 700 years of continuous worship at Holy Rood. How did that go down with the faithful? I expect he found some opposition.
But his faith, energy and drive won the support of people from all walks of life, from near and far. Between them they raised enough money (£8,000 at the time) to build the new church we now worship in.
The church building was just the start. Over the last 159 years, Christ Church Clergy and community have been at the heart of improvements in health, education and social care in our area. King Williams Street School founded in 1871, the Almshouses next door in 1877, the Little London Mission in 1902,St Andrews church built in 1955,the Ecumenical Parish project Help our Homeless in 1994, the Shakers young people’s meeting place in 1992 and the Kagitumba school project in 2003. There are many other examples.
Throughout that time the building itself has provided a centre of stillness and calm. It is a focal point for worship, service and celebration. It comes into its own particularly during periods of war, conflict, public and private mourning. It provides the backdrop for everyday births, marriages and deaths remaining at the heart of Swindon – like the baptism of Arlo Feeny we had last Sunday
Christ Church is a fine example of mid Victorian Gothic revival, by the distinguished architect Sir George Gilbert Scott. In the context of Swindon, Christ Church is a gem, one of the very few Grade 2* listed buildings of its age - in continuous use in Swindon.
We are in the privileged position of being custodians for its future
Happy Birthday Christ Church
