The Traditional Chapel

The Traditional Chapel comprises the original 1878 sanctuary and transepts.

On entering by the South Door, the height and cathedral-scale of the original building (designed by Messrs. Garlick, Park and Sykes) never fails to impress.

The Civic Memorials were transferred from the original church of 1822.

Above the lobby a series of windows has the theme ‘lost and found’. These depict the way God values everyone and seeks them out.

On the left, the window depicts the woman who loses then finds a special coin and on the right, the father who loses then finds his son.

Directly ahead lies the re-formed sanctuary with its original pulpit where the ministers would deliver their sermons. Various distinguished speakers have preached from it over the years including Archbishop William Temple who addressed capacity congregations of 1200 in a Parish Mission.

Carved into the oak, is a delicate pattern of vine leaves and grapes.

The original lectern features a carved oak eagle. By tradition the eagle is the bird that soars the highest – and so the most appropriate to ‘bear the word of God’. Placed on the lectern is a family bible given to the church. From the 18th century it was common for a bible to be used to record the various rites of passage within life.

The altar (or Holy Table) is not only used for the service of Holy Communion (where Jesus broke bread and shared wine) but is a symbol and focus of God’s presence among us.

Traditionally the sacredness of the Holy Table is retained by keeping it as empty as possible, excepting the laying upon it of particular articles (like a Military Standard) on special occasions.

The two candles are used to mark and signify the presence of God in worship. By tradition, the west candle is lit first. This represents the first bible reading at a Communion service, which is always from the Old Testament or the New Testament Epistles.The east candle is always lit second. This represents the second reading, the Gospel.

The candles are extinguished in the reverse order to signify that the Gospel candle ‘never stands alone’: reminding the worshippers of the rich heritage of God’s love in the world (through the Jewish faith) before Jesus Christ.

Behind the altar in the North Transept lie the Military Memorials recording the close affiliation and affection developed over the years with various sections of the armed services.