French Protestant Church of London facts for kids
Quick facts for kids French Protestant Church of London |
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| Location | Soho, London |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Denomination | Reformed |
| Tradition | Liberal Christianity |
| Website | French Protestant Church of London |
| History | |
| Founded | 24 July 1550 |
| Founder(s) | Edward VI |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade II* Listed |
| Architect(s) | Aston Webb |
| Groundbreaking | 28 October 1891 |
| Completed | 25 March 1893 |
The French Protestant Church of London (also known as Église protestante française de Londres) is a special church. It has served French-speaking people in London since 1550. This church is a Reformed and Presbyterian church. It is the only Huguenot church left in London. The building you see today in Soho Square is very old. It was designed by Aston Webb and built between 1891 and 1893. It is also a Grade II* listed building, which means it's historically important.
Contents
History of the Church
How the Church Started
The French Protestant Church of London began a long time ago. It was officially started by King Edward VI. He gave the church a special document called a Royal Charter on July 24, 1550. This charter allowed the church to exist and operate.
Help from John Calvin
In 1560, the Huguenots in London asked for help. The Huguenots were French Protestants who had to leave France. John Calvin, a very important religious leader from Geneva, sent a trusted pastor named Nicolas des Gallars. Nicolas des Gallars helped the young church learn about Reformed beliefs. He also helped them set up their Presbyterian way of organizing the church.
The Last Huguenot Church
By the year 1700, there were many French refugees in London. This was after the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685. This event meant that Protestants in France lost their rights. Because of this, 23 Huguenot churches existed in London. Today, the French Protestant Church of London is the only one still active. Another French Protestant Church in Brighton opened in 1887 but closed in 2008.
How the Church Works
Charitable Work
The French Protestant Church of London is a registered charity. This means it does good work for the community. There is also a related charity called The French Huguenot Church of London Charitable Trust. This trust helps provide money for the church. It also supports other good causes.
The Pastor and Leaders
The current pastor of the church is Stéphane Desmarais. He started his role on September 1, 2013. He is the 72nd French-speaking pastor of the church since 1550. He is also the 70th pastor appointed since Nicolas des Gallars in 1560.
The main group that runs the church is called the Consistory. The members of the Consistory are chosen by the church. The pastor is always a member of this group.
More to Explore
- John Houblon
- Courtauld family
- French Protestant Church, Brighton
