Holy Cross Church, Plumstead

Introduction

In 1967, Plumstead Common became an independent parish. In 1973, the house next to the church, 27 Slade, was bequeathed to the parish.

History

In 1979-80 the architects Myles and Deidre Dove converted the house into the presbytery and created a link building containing a small parish room, toilet facilities and a services control room. The glazed porch was enlarged, and the church was redecorated. In 1982, under Myles Under Dave’s supervision, the old asbestos roof was replaced by corrugated metal with improved insulation.

The sacristy group at Holy Cross is led by Maria Nguyen. Some groups have joint members from Holy Cross and St Patrick. Special cleaning days are organized before Christmas and Easter.

Architecture and furnishings

The building is partly prefabricated, with a reinforced concrete portal frame and brick elevations laid in Flemish bond. The pitched roof is of corrugated metal. The plan is rectangular with a link building to the presbytery at the southwest corner. The west facade facing the street has a large asymmetrically placed glazed porch in front of a blind brick facade.

The north elevation has six domestic style rectangular UPVC windows. Internally, the continuous space for nave and chancel comprises five bays, with a one bay sacristy behind the chancel. The altar, tabernacle stand and lectern are modern and of timber, in matching design. Above the altar is a carved crucifix.

To the left of the sanctuary are statues of the Virgin and St Joseph, to the right of the Sacred Heart and St Anthony. The Stations of the Cross are unframed carved timber reliefs. At the west is a self-contained timber confessional. The church faces southeast, although it is conventionally described with liturgical orientation.

The porch is timber framed and features large metal windows. The entrance doors are centrally placed, with a side door leading into the link building. Since September 2015, the parish of Holy Cross has been merged with Saint Patrick's, and the church now serves as a chapel-of-ease.

Sacraments and pastoral care

Adults interested in becoming Catholic are invited to join an RCIA group that uses the Bible and the Catechism of the Catholic Church as teaching sources.