History of the Parish
The Post-Reformation Roman Catholic Parish here in Penzance dates from about 1837, but at that time there was no church being used for regular worship. The church you are in today was the vision of Father William Young, a charismatic young priest from Ireland.
The foundation stone of the present church was laid in July 1841, and the nave of this great church was completed for the solemn opening on the 26th of October 1843. It was opened by the then Archbishop of Marseilles, Eugene de Mazanod, who was the Superior of the Oblate Fathers at which time whose care the parish was in. The opening was a grand occasion with music provided by the choirs of Bristol and Prior Park, Bath, together with a harmonium borrowed from Falmouth!
It was, and still is the largest Catholic church to be built in Cornwall, and one of the grandest in the Plymouth diocese. The architecture is that of the Victorian Gothic Revival period, and many features similar in style to that of the famous Catholic architect of the time; Augustus Welby Pugin. Unfortunately there are no plans evident for this church, and the architect is sadly unknown, though we know that Fr. Young worked on it himself!
The South Aisle, incorporating the Lady Chapel was added, though not in its entirety, in 1869 along with the Hall beneath. There are 2 windows dating from this time which have recently been restored to their former glory.
The 3 newer windows depicting the Mysteries of the Rosary were fitted in 1993 at the time of the 150th anniversary of the church. The North aisle of the church has to date not been yet been completed but it is envisiged that this will be completed within the next 5 years.
In the Sanctuary the fine High Altar of polished granite and serpentine was added in 1868, and is by the architect Joseph Hansom, famous for his well known design of the London cabs.
The Sanctuary was remodelled for the 100th anniversary of the church in 1943, and re-ordered for post-conciliar liturgy in 1982. It was only at this time that the church was finally consecrated on the 15th of December 1982!
Archive material dating from the mid 1930’s shows that there was a determination at that time, amidst restoration, to complete the building of the church, in time for the anniversary.
Over the last few years much present restoration of the church has been undertaken including major roof and rainwater works, the installation of comprehensive heating systems for the church and crypt levels, along with many improvements related to modern-day Health and Safety requirements. Plans are now afoot for the completion of this fine church including the development of the crypt areas for Sacristies and general parish facilities. This will include a dedicated facility for the music department.
Our much appreciated fine organ dates from 1884, and was built for this church by George Tucker of Plymouth. It has been well used and cared for, with various additions and improvements, and used regularly in the liturgies in this church, and is seen as a valuable asset by all.