Church of St. James, Twickenham

Introduction

The Church of Saint James in Twickenham, within the Archdiocese of Westminster, was established in 1883 as the Grosvenor Mission, and the present church was opened on 25 July 1885 by Cardinal Manning. The church was paid for by James de Lacy Towle, a convert to Catholicism, hence the dedication to his patron saint.

The parish runs groups for prayer, social action, Sacramental preparation, youth work and support of others. A monthly Children’s Mass is held at the church.

Architecture and furnishings

The church was consecrated in July 1887. After King Manuel’s death in 1932, his widow Queen Augusta donated the King’s private organ, which was placed in the old choir loft and partially dismantled in the 1980s. The church seats about 125 in the body of the building, with additional seating in St Joseph's Chapel.

Sacraments and pastoral care

For baptism, the parish requests three months' notice and arranges a preparation class with one of the catechists. Parents who have already had a child baptised at St James' Church are not required to attend the baptism preparation class.

For marriage, the parish requests six months' notice and expects couples to receive at least four preparation sessions. Marriage preparation can be done within the parish or through programmes such as Marriage Care. Confetti is allowed in the church forecourt but not inside the building.