St Antony of Padua, Forest Gate

Introduction

The church was designed by Edward Welby Pugin (1831–1875), a renowned Gothic Revival architect.

History

The origins stretch back to 1873, when the Franciscans from Stratford opened a temporary chapel in Forest Gate. The first permanent section of the church opened on 8 October 1884, and the mission was formally established shortly after. The Lady Chapel was added in 1897, in memory of the Donovan family. A pipe organ was installed in 1909.

In 1931, the tower and spire were completed as a memorial to the fallen of the First World War. The church was consecrated in 1952.

The Diocese of Brentwood and English Heritage gave permission at the beginning of 2020 to proceed with the restoration of the sanctuary. The sanctuary works, beginning in March 2020 at a cost of approximately £0.5M, include cleaning and repairing the stonework behind the altar including the reredos.

Music and liturgy

Masses are offered for the Afro-Caribbean, Nigerian, Ghanaian, and Goan communities. Malayalam Masses are celebrated in both the Syro-Malabar and Malankara rites.

Parish life

The parish extends its care to Newham General Hospital, where a Sister of the SSJT serves as chaplain, and the community regularly visits the sick and elderly in their homes. The parish's Faithful Friends Group fosters regular dialogue and collaboration with local Muslim, Hindu, and Sikh faith leaders.

The parish has a repository offering religious cards, books, medals, statues, candles, and devotional items. Couples planning to marry are asked to give the parish at least six months notice so that preparation can take place.

Regular events

As a designated shrine church, St Antony’s holds a special place of devotion and pilgrimage, especially on Tuesdays, which are traditionally dedicated to St Antony of Padua.

Visiting

Throughout the day, many others also visit the church to pray, among them are devotees from various faith backgrounds, including Hindus from India and Sri Lanka.