Sacred Heart, Minehead

Introduction

Sacred Heart Church in Minehead, in the Diocese of Clifton, was opened for divine worship on 15 September 1896. The church was designed by architect Canon Scoles, with plans submitted in March 1896. The foundation stone was laid on 9 April 1896 by Bishop Brownlow.

History

In 1891, a thatched barn in Selbourne Place was opened as a chapel by Bishop Clifford. The church was built by Mr W Harrison, a Minehead builder, between April and September 1896. In 1901, an organ built by Messrs Minns of Taunton was installed. Much of the stained glass was installed between 1901 and 1907.

Father Richard Chichester, who served the parish, died on 7 February 1914. Mgr J Lyons became parish priest on 19 February 1914 and served until November 1916. In November 1916, Father J J Noonan moved to Minehead from Clifton. The cost of building the church was £737, which does not include fitting out etc.

Architecture and furnishings

In May to August 1900, plans were made to add an aisle to the church; the plans were approved on 15 May 1900, and the aisle was formally opened on 2 September 1900. In January 1898, Father Chichester started to raise funds for the installation of a permanent High Altar and Reredos; the total sum raised was £157 and the cost was £154 18s 6d. Sacred Heart parish streams live Masses and offers catch-up viewing of previous Masses.