Saint Vincent de Paul

Introduction

The parish of Saint Vincent de Paul in Isleworth was established in December 1936. The new church of Saint Vincent de Paul in Osterley was completed in the spring of 2005. The church was consecrated on 24th October 2005.

History

The architect of Saint Lawrence Roman Catholic Church in Feltham was instructed to design a Chapel in Osterley that could eventually be used as a Hall. In early 2001, parishioners voted to build a new church seating 300 people. The Diocese appointed the winning architect in late April 2001. The chosen contractor was appointed in July 2003 and started on site in August 2003.

The Foundation Stone was laid in May 2004. The move to the new church occurred in April 2005.

Architecture and furnishings

The brick building features a pitched roof, with a prominent tower fitted with a 2-meter-high iron cross. The cross was crane-lifted and fitted to the tower in July 2004. The new church features a modern circular plan layout, with pews arranged in a semi-circular pattern. The tabernacle came from the Campion House Seminary, as a donation from the Jesuits, following the Seminary’s closure in 2004.

In 2019, energy-efficient and long-lasting special LED lights were installed in the church. A Prayer Garden, adjacent to the Presbytery, was provided as the best alternative for complying with the Planning Gain policy (“106 Agreement”). High-level windows in the tower bring dramatic natural light into the sanctuary area. Side windows on the south wall are carefully positioned to eliminate glare from direct sun and provide controlled natural light.

The roof provides a robust acoustic barrier that effectively mitigates aircraft noise. The floor slopes gently to improve sight lines for worshipers to the sanctuary. A small ramp provides disabled access to the sanctuary area. Some spaces near the front pews are designated to accommodate wheelchairs.

The cohesive design includes a large narthex gathering area and a lobby linking the parish hall and presbytery. The church has energy-efficient under-floor heating that works with a comfort ventilation system using constant filtered fresh air. Fresh air enters through bespoke air diffusers concealed within the ceiling bulkhead at the rear of the church. Air is exhausted using a discreetly positioned fan within the tower.

A fully controllable artificial lighting system responds to different church events. The cross was donated to the parish after being retrieved following the demolition of St Vincent’s Orphanage in Mill Hill. The cross was professionally cleaned and then gilded by a late sister. The altar, baptismal font, lectern, and the tabernacle’s shelf with its surrounds are enhanced by using the same attractive type of marble.

A new painted Crucifix, commissioned from a late sister, hangs prominently over the sanctuary area. The original bulb holders in the church were adapted and retained to save costs. The church’s lighting controls were upgraded to a state-of-the-art system with fully addressable capabilities, offering up to 16 different lighting levels.

Parish life

The parish supports local food banks, provides meals and assistance for vulnerable individuals and families, and works with charities to care for the homeless and marginalised. The parish offers faith formation programmes for children, young people, and adults, including sacramental preparation and RCIA. The parish provides pastoral care by visiting the sick, elderly, and homebound, offering support and companionship, and bringing Communion to those who cannot attend Mass. The parish hosts community events, cultural celebrations, and social events to foster unity and joy.

The parish enriches worship through music, choir, and the arts, providing opportunities for creative expression. The Prayer Garden is designed for the local community to use as a tranquil space for reflection and meditation, and is used by the parish during part of the liturgical services during Easter and Christmas.

Regular events

The parish marks the liturgical year with special services and events for Holy Week, Christmas, Easter, and the feast days of the saints. The parish provides opportunities for Adoration, Confession, prayer groups, and retreats.