Church of St Hugh of Lincoln, Letchworth

Step into the heart of Letchworth Garden City and discover the enchanting Church of St Hugh of Lincoln, a beacon of architectural beauty and spiritual solace. This Catholic church, nestled in Hertfordshire, is a testament to the devotion and vision of its founder, Adrian Fortescue, a scholar and priest whose legacy continues to resonate within its walls.

The Original Church: 1907-1963

In November 1907, Adrian Fortescue was appointed as the Missionary Rector of Letchworth, faced with the monumental task of building a church from scratch. His dedication to this mission was unparalleled, personally financing much of the original church's construction. Designed by Sir Charles Spooner RIBA, the first church was a small yet charming structure with a Romanesque facade, intended as a temporary place of worship. It opened its doors in 1908, blessed by Bishop Patrick Fenton and dedicated to St Hugh of Lincoln.

Fortescue's scholarly interest in the Byzantine Church and his connections with the Arts and Crafts Movement left a distinctive mark on the church's interior. Various liturgical items and artwork from this period can still be seen in the modern church, reflecting the rich liturgical life that the original church became famous for. Today, this building serves as the Church Hall, aptly named 'Fortescue Hall' in honor of its founder.

The Present Church

While the original church was always meant to be a temporary solution, it wasn't until 1961 that construction on the new, permanent church began. The design, largely based on John Edward Dixon-Spain's 1938 plans, embodies a stripped modern Romanesque style. The builders, John Willmott & Sons of Hitchin, utilized reinforced concrete and steel, clad in brick with Clipsham stone window and door surrounds, to create a structure that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.

The new church boasts a broad and long nave with narrow aisles, a western narthex, and a baptistery, along with a Sanctuary and Lady Chapel to the south. The foundation stone was blessed by Cardinal William Godfrey on 7 April 1962, and the first Mass was celebrated on 21 February 1963. Several furnishings from the old church were lovingly transferred to the new building, including the holy water font, four stained-glass windows, and a stone tablet dedicated to Fortescue. One notable piece is the square alabaster baptismal font designed by Spooner, standing on stone columns with an inscription in memory of Dr. Edmond Fauriel Trevelyan.

The Lady Chapel and Sanctuary

The Lady Chapel is a serene space featuring a marble altar inset with carved panels depicting loaves and fishes. The three stained-glass panels, portraying the Virgin and Child, St Hugh, and St Lawrence, were brought over from the old church, along with an engraved stone memorial to Adrian Fortescue. The Sanctuary is adorned with a striking sixteen-foot diameter carved icon of the Crucifixion of Jesus by Stephen Foster, a focal point that draws the eye and the spirit.

In January 2007, the church underwent renovations to align with modern liturgical requirements, culminating in its consecration by Bishop George Stack on 24 November 2007. This event marked a significant milestone in the church's history, celebrating its centenary year with renewed vigor and purpose.

A Continuing Legacy

The Church of St Hugh of Lincoln is not just a place of worship; it is a living monument to the dedication and vision of its founders and community. In November 2013, Archbishop Vincent Nichols celebrated Mass on the feast day of St Hugh of Lincoln, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the present church building. This celebration underscored the church's enduring role in the spiritual life of Letchworth Garden City.

Visitors to the Church of St Hugh of Lincoln will find themselves immersed in a rich tapestry of history, art, and faith. The church's elegant design, coupled with its profound sense of community and continuity, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking both architectural beauty and spiritual enrichment. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, its architectural charm, or its vibrant liturgical life, the Church of St Hugh of Lincoln offers a unique and inspiring experience that will stay with you long after you leave its hallowed grounds.