Church of St. Walburge, Preston

St. Walburge's Church in Preston, Lancashire, is an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of its designer, Joseph Hansom. This Gothic Revival masterpiece, completed in the mid-19th century, is not only a place of worship but also a beacon of historical and cultural significance. With its towering spire, which is the tallest of any parish church in England, St. Walburge's is a landmark that commands the skyline and invites visitors to explore its rich heritage.

The History of St. Walburge's Church

The story of St. Walburge's Church begins in the bustling industrial era of the 19th century, a time when Preston was flourishing due to its thriving textile mills. The church was commissioned during the Roman Catholic revival in England, a period marked by renewed religious fervor and the construction of grand ecclesiastical buildings. The architect chosen for this ambitious project was Joseph Hansom, who is also known for inventing the hansom cab. Construction began in May 1850, and the church was officially opened on August 3, 1854.

The church is dedicated to Saint Walpurga, an English saint born in 710 AD. She was renowned for her miraculous healing powers and her missionary work in Germany alongside her brothers, St. Willibald and St. Winibald. The dedication to St. Walpurga reflects the church's deep-rooted connection to the traditions and history of the Catholic faith.

Architectural Highlights

One of the most striking features of St. Walburge's Church is its spire, which rises to an impressive height of 309 feet (94 meters). This makes it the tallest spire of any parish church in England and the third tallest in the United Kingdom, after Salisbury and Norwich Cathedrals. The spire is constructed from limestone sleepers that originally carried the nearby Preston and Longridge Railway, giving it a unique red tint during sunset. This architectural marvel is not only a visual delight but also a testament to the innovative use of materials by Joseph Hansom.

The exterior of the church is equally captivating, with its New Red Sandstone facade presenting a harmonious blend of traditional Gothic elements. The facade is divided into two zones by a strongly horizontal arcade, balanced by projecting buttresses and corner pinnacles. The upper zone is dominated by a magnificent rose window, 22 feet (7 meters) in diameter, which occupies almost the full width of the nave.

Exploring the Interior

Stepping inside St. Walburge's Church, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking interior that can seat about 1,000 people. The church is 165 feet (50 meters) long and 55 feet (17 meters) wide, with an open wooden roof supported by fourteen hammerbeams. Each hammerbeam is adorned with life-sized carved figures of saints, adding a touch of divine artistry to the structure.

The church boasts an impressive organ by William Hill of London, installed in 1855. This magnificent instrument adds to the spiritual ambiance of the church, filling the space with melodious hymns during services. Other notable features include a wooden triptych and a crucifix with the shield of Preston and the motto Princeps Pacis (Prince of Peace). The presence of St. Ignatius of Loyola to the right of the sanctuary echoes the influence of Jesuit priests in the city, while representations of the patron saints of Great Britain further enrich the church's spiritual tapestry.

Preservation and Modern Use

In recent years, St. Walburge's Church faced the threat of closure due to financial constraints. However, the quality of its architecture and its significance to the local community led to a concerted effort to preserve this historic building. In 2014, Michael Campbell, the Roman Catholic Bishop of Lancaster, entrusted the church to the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest. This move ensured that the church would remain open as a shrine for Eucharistic Devotion and adoration, with daily Mass and sacraments offered in the Traditional Roman Rite.

The church's spire is occasionally open to the public on weekend evenings, offering visitors a unique opportunity to ascend this architectural wonder. The funds raised from ticket sales contribute to the ongoing preservation and maintenance of the church.

A Beacon of Heritage

St. Walburge's Church is more than just a place of worship; it is a beacon of heritage, a symbol of the Roman Catholic community's pride and resilience, and a testament to the architectural brilliance of Joseph Hansom. Its towering spire, intricate Gothic design, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Preston. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, St. Walburge's Church offers a captivating experience that will leave you in awe of its grandeur and significance.