Church of the Sacred Heart

In the heart of Fareham, Hampshire, stands the charming Church of the Sacred Heart, a beacon of history and architectural beauty. This Roman Catholic parish church, which has been serving the community since 1878, is a testament to the enduring faith and dedication of its parishioners. Designed by the London-based architect John Crawley, the church is a splendid example of the Decorated Gothic Revival style, a small yet intricately detailed structure that captures the eye and the imagination.

A Journey Through History

The origins of Catholic worship in the Fareham area can be traced back to 1747, when descendants of Royalists loyal to James II of England sought refuge from persecution in the village of Soberton, north of Fareham. They transformed a farmhouse into a chapel, which served the community until 1839. Following this period, the nearest Catholic churches were in Havant and Gosport, both significant centers of Catholicism in Hampshire. It wasn't until 1873 that a Catholic mission was established in Fareham itself, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the local Catholic community.

James Bellord, a military chaplain who later became the Vicar Apostolic of Gibraltar, acquired a shed on West Street and converted it into a small chapel named the Chapel of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This humble structure was registered for worship on February 7, 1874. The first priest, Father T. Foran, also a military chaplain, served the growing congregation. Recognizing the need for a more permanent place of worship, the parish purchased land from an old timber yard nearby and laid the foundation stone for the new church on March 19, 1877. The construction, overseen by John Crawley, took just over a year, and the first Mass was celebrated on September 4, 1878, with Bishop James Danell of Southwark presiding over the dedication.

Architectural Splendor

The Church of the Sacred Heart is a delightful example of the Decorated Gothic Revival style, characterized by its use of flint and brick. The church's design, inspired by the earlier works of Augustus Pugin, features a tall nave flanked by low red-brick aisles and clerestory windows in the shape of quatrefoils. The paired lancet windows with Decorated Gothic-style tracery and trefoil heads add to the church's aesthetic appeal. The polygonal apse at the eastern end houses the sanctuary, while the west end features a narthex and an entrance lobby built between 1976 and 1977, connected to the adjacent church hall.

Inside, the church boasts a series of arcades with octagonal and round piers, creating a sense of space and grandeur. Notable internal fittings include a Bath stone baptismal font, a reconfigured altar adorned with decorative mosaic panels depicting biblical scenes, and a modern ambo. The tabernacle, originally from the chapel at Lambeth Hospital in London, adds a touch of historical significance. The stained glass windows, mostly by unidentified designers, include a striking depiction of Jesus walking on water by J. Edward Nuttgens, created around 1940.

A Community Hub

Despite its historical and architectural significance, the Church of the Sacred Heart is more than just a building; it is a vibrant community hub. The parish, which covers the whole of Fareham town, Portchester, and nearby villages such as Knowle, Wickham, North Boarhunt, and Southwick, offers a range of services and activities for its members. Two weekend Masses are held at the church, along with additional Masses on certain weekdays. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered weekly, providing spiritual support to the faithful.

The church's history of community service extends beyond its walls. In the village of Portchester, priests from the Sacred Heart began saying Mass in 1935, leading to the establishment of a permanent church dedicated to Our Lady of Walsingham in 1954. Although this church closed in 2010 and was later demolished, the legacy of outreach continues. Another Mass center was established in Park Gate, west of Fareham, in a drill hall, leading to the construction of the Church of St Margaret Mary in 1966, which remains in use today. In Stubbington, south of Fareham, a Mass center founded in 1976 eventually led to the creation of a permanent church dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, now part of a joint parish with the church in Lee-on-the-Solent.

A Testament to Faith

The Church of the Sacred Heart stands as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the Catholic community in Fareham. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and vibrant community life make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the spiritual and cultural heritage of the area. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a place of peace and reflection, the Church of the Sacred Heart welcomes you with open arms and a warm heart.