All Saints' Church, Northampton

All Saints' Church in Northampton stands as a beacon of resilience and architectural splendor in the heart of this historic English town. With a rich history dating back to the medieval era, this Grade I listed building has witnessed centuries of change, yet continues to serve as a place of worship and community gathering.

The History of All Saints' Church

The original church, known as All Hallows, was founded by Simon de Senlis and stood proudly until the fateful day of 20 September 1675, when the Great Fire of Northampton ravaged much of the old town. The fire began in St Mary's Street and quickly spread, consuming buildings in its path, including All Hallows. The bells of All Hallows tolled their final, mournful notes as the flames engulfed the structure.

In the aftermath of the fire, King Charles II generously donated a thousand tons of timber for the rebuilding of the church. Additionally, one-tenth of the funds collected for the town's reconstruction were allocated to the church. The task of rebuilding fell to Henry Bell, an architect from King's Lynn, who resided in Northampton at the time. Bell's design for the new church bore a striking resemblance to the works of Sir Christopher Wren, renowned for his London churches.

The Architectural Marvel

The new All Saints' Church was consecrated in 1680, featuring a design that combined elements of the surviving medieval tower and crypt with a fresh, almost square layout. Visitors enter through the existing tower into a nave adorned with a barrel-vaulted ceiling. At the center of this space is a dome, supported by four Ionic columns, which is illuminated by a lantern above. The barrel vault extends into the aisles, forming a Greek-cross pattern and leaving four flat ceilings in the corners of the church.

The church is bathed in natural light, thanks to the plain glass windows in the aisles. Originally, a large east window graced the chancel, but it is now covered by a reredos. The plasterwork ceiling is intricately decorated, and the barrel vaults are further illuminated by elliptical windows.

A Living Tradition

All Saints' Church remains an active place of worship within the Catholic tradition of the Church of England. In 1993, the parochial church council passed Resolutions A, B, and C, following the Church of England's decision to allow the ordination of women to the priesthood. As a parish that rejects the ordination of women, All Saints' receives alternative episcopal oversight from the Bishop of Richborough.

The church is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with extended hours on days featuring choral services. This accessibility allows visitors to experience the church's serene atmosphere and rich history firsthand.

Exploring the Church

One of the most striking features of All Saints' Church is the large portico added to the west end in 1701. This addition, reminiscent of the Inigo Jones portico at Old St Paul's Cathedral, serves as a memorial to Charles II's contribution to the church's rebuilding. Above the portico stands a statue of Charles II, dressed in a Roman tunic. Each year on Oak Apple Day, the choir sings a Latin hymn to Charles II from the roof, and the statue is adorned with oak leaves by the Mayor of Northampton. A similar ceremony takes place on Ascension Day.

Inside the church, the Mayoral Seat dominates the pews on the south side, while the north aisle houses a Consistory Court. Icons of Saint Peter and Saint Katharine, painted in 2001, reflect the parish boundaries and add a touch of modern artistry to the historic setting.

Musical Heritage

Music plays a significant role in the life of All Saints' Church. The choir, which dates back to the 1100s, is composed of the Boys Choir, the Girls Choir, and the Choral Scholars and Lay Clerks. These choirs perform at five choral services each week, including Sunday Mass and Evensong.

The church is also home to six musical instruments: three pipe organs and three pianos. The West Organ, built by J. W. Walker & Sons Ltd in 1982/3, is the largest, featuring 40 stops spread over three manuals and pedals. The Chancel Organ, installed in 2006, has 33 stops, while the Memorial Chapel Organ, built in 1983, consists of two ranks that can be combined using 10 stops.

A Place of Community

All Saints' Church is not just a place of worship; it is a vibrant community hub. In 2008, the Narthex, Sacristy, and lavatories were refurbished, and a coffee shop, All Saints' Bistro, was established. The north end of the bistro is named the John Clare Lounge, in honor of the poet who once composed his works outside this space.

In conclusion, All Saints' Church in Northampton is a testament to resilience, architectural beauty, and community spirit. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant musical tradition make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the heart of Northampton. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, its serene atmosphere, or its role as a community gathering place, All Saints' Church offers a unique and enriching experience for all who enter its doors.