St. Edmund Campion, Wellingborough

Introduction

A permanent disabled access ramp was provided as part of renovation works in 2004.

Architecture and furnishings

The church and hall form an irregular L-plan with a steel frame, brick exterior, and clerestory glazing. The seating was renewed in 2004 with interlocking chairs. The sanctuary comprises a wooden altar and ambo, probably dating from 2004. To the right of the sanctuary are the Lady Altar and the large folding screen wall to the school hall/church extension.

Fixed to the wall are three individual rood figures. The baptistry has a marble altar and moulded stone font.

The interior features a 2-bay chancel arcade with tall Perpendicular style arches. The east elevation has a chancel of 3-window range of 3-light windows with 2-stage buttresses between.

The sanctuary is set against the corner of the L, which is chamfered and steps up higher than other areas. The organ case in the north transept is attractively painted and was restored in 2001. The church has a marble chancel rail probably early C20 with elaborate flanking statue niches and figures on the tie beam above.

Music and liturgy

The Stations of the Cross were purchased from Burns & Oates in 1887. Stained glass to the baptistry and rose windows are probably by Kempe. The sanctuary has an unusual arrangement of a baldacchino integral with the east window, richly decorated with an ogee rib vault.

Parish life

The parish is diverse, based across two churches, and shares prayer styles from all over the world. During Children’s Liturgy, DBS-checked catechists lead the children to a classroom within the church premises for Bible stories and age-appropriate activities.

Preparation for First Holy Communion takes place in the parish with the support of the parents. The parish has a team of trained readers who assist in the proclamation and understanding of God’s Word.

Visiting

Visitors pass through a glazed screen in the narthex leading to the hall and another to the church. A combined entrance on the south side serves both the school hall and the church. A statue of the Risen Christ is mounted on the south wall for visitors to view.