Christ Church Highbury facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Christ Church Highbury |
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March, 2009 photo of Christ Church Highbury
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| Location | 155 Highbury Grove London |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Denomination | Church of England |
| Website | www.christchurchhighbury.com |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Thomas Allom |
| Years built | 1847-1848 |
| Administration | |
| Diocese | Diocese of London |
Christ Church Highbury is a Christian church located in Islington, north London. It is part of the Church of England and stands right next to Highbury Fields, a large park. This church is a busy place that serves its local community.
Contents
History of Christ Church Highbury
Building the Church
Christ Church Highbury was built a long time ago, between 1847 and 1848. A kind local person named John Dawes gave the land for the church to be built. The architect who designed it was Thomas Allom. He created the church in a special cross shape, which is called a "cruciform" plan. This design was popular for churches where people wanted to hear sermons clearly.
Over the years, the church building has changed a bit. In 1872, a balcony was added inside. Later, in 1980, new rooms were built. These rooms are used for activities for children and for people to meet and spend time together.
Helping the Community Today
Christ Church Highbury is known for helping people in its community. After some difficult events in London in July 2005, the church leaders shared a special prayer. They asked everyone to pray for all people who were suffering, no matter where they came from. This showed the church's message of unity and care for everyone.
The former Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, visited the church in 2006. He came to help out at the church's night shelter for people who are homeless. He served food, made beds, and chatted with the guests. Every winter, the church provides a warm place to sleep, a hot meal, and breakfast for homeless people in the area.
Music at the Church
Music is a very important part of Christ Church Highbury. The church has a long history of great music. Its first Director of Music, Thomas Kilner, even wrote books about church songs.
Many musical groups use the church for their performances. These include groups like Eclectic Voices and Highbury Young Singers. A special opera called Tobias and the Angel was first performed at the church in 1999.
Sunday services at the church have different musical styles. The early morning service uses traditional hymns with piano or organ music. The later service is more relaxed and mixes old and new songs. There's even a special "Jazz Vespers" service once a month. This service combines jazz music with traditional hymns. Christ Church Highbury was even featured on the TV show Songs of Praise in 1997, showing off its musical talent.
