St. Francis of Assisi in Pottery Lane has stood here since 1860 and is a key part of Notting Dale’s history, and throughout its extraordinary history it has provided spiritual support and practical help to one of the poorest areas in London.
The story of Roman Catholicism
Roman Catholicism is the branch of Christianity that recognizes the Pope as its spiritual leader and traces its origins back to the apostles, particularly St. Peter, whom Catholics believe was the first Pope. The Catholic Church is characterized by its traditions, sacraments, and teachings that emphasize faith, charity, and the authority of the Church as a mediator of salvation.
Catholicism first came to Britain during Roman times, around the 4th century, when Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity. Over the next several centuries, Catholicism flourished, becoming the dominant religion in England.
However, the Reformation in the 16th century, led by King Henry VIII’s break from Rome, saw Catholicism suppressed as Protestantism became the state religion. Despite centuries of persecution, Catholicism survived in Britain through secret practices and missionary work, eventually regaining some legal recognition with the Catholic Emancipation Act in 1829. This allowed Catholics to practice their faith openly once again, leading to the building of churches like St. Francis of Assisi to serve the growing Catholic communities, particularly in urban areas like London.
The Story of St. Francis of Assisi
St. Francis of Assisi, an Italian Catholic friar who lived in the 12th and 13th centuries. Known for his deep love of nature, humility, and dedication to poverty, St. Francis believed in living a life modelled on the teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly focusing on simplicity, compassion, and service to others.
The core of the Franciscan tradition is poverty and humility. St. Francis renounced wealth and material possessions, believing that true freedom and spiritual richness came from living in harmony with nature and serving the poor. His message of peace and care for the marginalized resonated with many, and he established the Order of Friars Minor, commonly known as the Franciscans, who continue his work to this day.
Key to the Franciscan ethos is the idea of "fraternity", seeing all of creation as part of one interconnected family. St. Francis spoke of the sun, moon, animals, and even death as "brothers" and "sisters," emphasizing unity and respect for all life. His approach to life was not just about helping others materially but also showing compassion and love in everyday actions.
The Poverty in Notting Dale
In the mid-19th century, Notting Dale was infamous for its slums, unsanitary conditions, and overcrowding. This area was even known as "Cut-throat Lane" due to its crime and poverty. Pottery Lane itself was home to brick kilns and the "Piggeries," where families lived in shanty homes alongside pigs. Over time, the community grew, but so did the problems of poor sanitation and disease.
Irish immigrants, escaping the Potato Famine, flooded into the area in the 1840s, many bringing their Catholic faith. This created a need for a Catholic church to serve the growing community.
Building the Church
In 1859, Father Henry Augustus Rawes decided to build a church specifically for the poor of Notting Dale. He chose this location deliberately—though another site on a hill was available, Rawes felt the rich could always walk down to attend services, but the poor wouldn’t climb uphill.
St. Francis was built from simple yellow brick, reflecting both the poverty of the area and the limited resources of the clergy.
The church was designed by John Francis Bentley, the same architect who later designed Westminster Cathedral.
Though St. Francis was simpler, Bentley brought his characteristic blend of Byzantine influences and practical design to this project.
The interior features beautiful yet understated decorations, with soft, luminous paintings and sculptures designed to inspire without overwhelming
Architecturally, St. Francis is modest but thoughtful. The three-bay nave and north aisle are made of yellow brick for consistency, and the Lady Chapel had to be curved around the apse because of the uneven ground. Bentley extended the church over the years, adding the French Gothic-inspired Baptistery.
Inside, the church’s decoration is more refined than you might expect from its humble exterior. Bentley commissioned Belgian sculptor Theodore Phyffers for the statue of Our Lady, and the artist N.H.J. Westlake created the Seven Stations of the Cross that line the church.
The baptismal font of red granite and alabaster, features a carved wooden cover designed by Bentley himself.
St. Francis’ Legacy
From its beginning, St. Francis has played a crucial role in supporting the community. It provided schooling, food, and moral guidance at a time when the area was in desperate need. The work continues today, with programs like "Hand in Hand," which helps elderly and disabled parishioners, and "Mary’s Meals," which feeds local children in need.
After a restoration in 1983, the church returned to its simple, original beauty. In recent years, the church has recently been further restored, with stunning new stained glass windows.
It is within short walking distance of Grenfell Tower, and the parish has played its part in ministering to those affected by the 2017 fire. Despite all the changes in Notting Dale and tragedy of the Grenfell Tower fire, St. Francis remains the place of worship for the Roman Catholic community. The church, courtyard and buildings that surround it are a symbol of resilience and hope for the community, encompassing social outreach, support for justice and faith.
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