St John's Church, Purewell

Nestled in the heart of Purewell, Dorset, St John's Church stands as a charming testament to Victorian architecture and community spirit. This quaint Church of England mission church, built in 1880-81, has been a cornerstone of local life for over a century, offering a place of worship, solace, and community gatherings. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and vibrant community activities make it a delightful stop for any visitor exploring the area.

The History of St John's Church

St John's Church was born out of a need for a more accessible place of worship for the residents of Purewell, who found the distant Christchurch Priory inconvenient. This need was met by the benevolence of Miss Mary Long, a local benefactress who funded the construction of the church in memory of her brothers, James Long of Southampton and Robert Long of Christchurch. The land on which the church stands was purchased on September 23, 1880, for £200, following a fire that had left the site vacant since 1876.

The construction of the church began in September 1880, with Charles Davis of Purewell as the builder and William Jurd of Southampton as the architect. The church, designed in the Tudor Gothic style, was completed at a cost of £800, which included wooden seats, a reading desk, and a harmonium. On February 5, 1881, the church was officially opened by the Bishop of Winchester, the Right Rev. Harold Browne, in the presence of approximately 175 people. The opening, initially scheduled for the previous month, was delayed due to a snowstorm.

From its inception, St John's Church quickly became a hub for community activities. Beyond its religious services, it hosted meetings, lectures, entertainments, and various group gatherings. As the community grew, the church expanded its facilities, acquiring two adjoining houses and their gardens in 1897 for mission room purposes. In 1912, a platform was added inside the building, and in 1928, the first Holy Communion service was held after an altar was installed. The harmonium was replaced with an electronic instrument in 1978, ensuring that the church's musical heritage continued to flourish.

Architectural Charm

St John's Church is a delightful example of Tudor Gothic architecture, characterized by its red brick construction, concrete foundations, and slate roof. The building measures approximately 18 feet by 28 feet and features eight mullion windows, all adorned with beautiful stained glass. A vestry was added to the back of the building, providing additional space for church activities.

One of the unique features of St John's Church is the wall on each side of the door leading to the vestry. These walls are adorned with two long frames containing the Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the Ten Commandments, all painted in gilt letters. These frames were created by one of Miss Long's brothers and gifted to the church by Mr. Lander from St Mary's Church at Bransgore.

Originally, the church was lit by gas lighting via ornamental pendants. In 1958, electric lamps were installed, although two of the original pendants were retained and used until 2011. The church is surrounded by a charming wall with iron palisading, and a pavement of tessellated tiles leads to the double door. In 2016, new paving was laid to provide wheelchair access, ensuring that the church remains accessible to all visitors.

A Vibrant Community Hub

Today, St John's Church continues to be a vibrant hub of community activity. It holds Evensong on the second Sunday of each month and Holy Communion on the fourth Sunday. The church also hosts tea and coffee mornings every Wednesday, providing a welcoming space for locals to gather and socialize. Additionally, book and bric-a-brac sales are held each Saturday, offering a delightful opportunity to browse for treasures while supporting the church.

In 2010, the interior of the church underwent a refurbishment, ensuring that it remains a comfortable and inviting space for all who visit. In 2013, a single-storey pitched roof extension was added to the back of the building, providing much-needed toilet facilities.

Visiting St John's Church

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a peaceful place to reflect, St John's Church in Purewell is a must-visit. Its rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant community activities make it a delightful destination for visitors of all ages. As you step through its double doors and into its serene interior, you will be transported back in time, experiencing the enduring legacy of a church that has been at the heart of its community for over a century.

Take a moment to admire the beautiful stained glass windows, the intricate gilt lettering of the Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the Ten Commandments, and the welcoming atmosphere that has made St John's Church a beloved landmark in Purewell. Whether you join in a service, attend a community event, or simply take a quiet moment to reflect, your visit to St John's Church will be a memorable and enriching experience.