Church of St Mary

Situated on North Road in St Helens, Merseyside, the Church of St Mary, Lowe House, stands as a testament to the resilience and devotion of its local community. This Roman Catholic Parish church, with its distinctive architectural features, has been a landmark since its foundation in 1924. Often referred to as 'The Basilica of St Helens' or 'The Poor Man’s Cathedral,' it offers a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, creating an imposing yet inviting presence.

The Origins of St Mary’s Lowe House

The story of St Mary’s Lowe House begins in the late 18th century. The church derives its name from a piece of land donated by Winefred Eccleston, née Lowe, near her home on Cowley Hill. Winefred was the widow of John Gorsuch Eccleston, a former owner of Eccleston Hall. Initially, a chapel was constructed on this land and opened in 1793, known as Lowe House. Over the years, as the Catholic population in St Helens grew, the original chapel was enlarged three times, with the final expansion occurring in 1857.

The Foundation of the Present Church

By the early 20th century, it was clear that a larger church was needed to accommodate the burgeoning Catholic community. In 1924, construction began on a new church adjacent to the original one, which was eventually demolished in 1930. The foundation stone was laid by the Archbishop of Liverpool, Frederick Keating, on May 11, 1924. The ambitious scale of the new church was envisioned by Fr Reginald Riley SJ, the parish priest from 1912 to 1946, who sought to create a grand space for worship.

Designed by the Irish architect Charles B. Powell, who had previously worked on other Jesuit projects in Dublin, the church was completed and opened in 1929. Despite the economic hardships of the time, the local community's donations funded its construction. This collective effort earned the church its affectionate monikers, reflecting both its grandeur and the sacrifices made by the people of St Helens.

Architectural Marvels

The architectural design of St Mary’s Lowe House is a harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements. The church’s most striking feature is its dome, which sits at the intersection of the nave, sanctuary, and transepts. This dome, perched atop a castellated octagonal tower, is adorned with a 16-foot copper cross, donated by the family of James Yearsley, a local builder whose company laid the church’s foundations. The clock face on the 130-foot tall tower is set in gold mosaic, adding a touch of elegance to the structure.

The Historic Carillon

One of the church's most notable features is its carillon, housed within the clock tower. This historic instrument, cast and built by John Taylor & Co. of Loughborough, is the largest in the North West of England, comprising 47 bells. Unlike traditional bell systems operated by ropes, the carillon is played using a keyboard, allowing for intricate musical performances. The carillon is regularly played, and the church occasionally hosts recitals by visiting carillonneurs, adding a melodic charm to the church's atmosphere.

The Parish Community

St Mary’s Lowe House has always been more than just a building; it is the heart of a vibrant parish community. Weekly Mass is held every Sunday at 11:00 am, drawing parishioners from across St Helens. In 1980, the Jesuits, who had staffed the church since its foundation, announced that they would be handing over the administration to the Archdiocese of Liverpool, effective from Easter 1981.

In 2010, the parish underwent a significant reorganization, merging with the nearby Holy Cross and St Helen parish to form the parish of Holy Cross and St Mary. However, in 2014, following further changes within the archdiocese, St Mary’s Lowe House was paired with the parish of St Thomas of Canterbury in Dentons Green. The church of Holy Cross & St. Helen reverted to being a single parish under a new parish priest.

Visiting St Mary’s Lowe House

Visitors to St Mary’s Lowe House are often struck by its architectural beauty and the sense of history that pervades the building. The church stands as a symbol of the community's faith, resilience, and generosity. Whether you are attending Mass, listening to the carillon, or simply admiring the architectural details, a visit to this magnificent church is a journey through time and a celebration of the human spirit.

In conclusion, the Church of St Mary, Lowe House, is not just a place of worship; it is a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring strength of the St Helens community. Its walls echo the prayers and hymns of generations, making it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the rich cultural and religious heritage of Merseyside.