Brighton’s tallest church celebrates its 150th anniversary

Commissioned by Fr Arthur Douglas Wagner, the first service was held in the church on the 8th September 1874 and so this year, the place of worship proudly celebrates its 150th anniversary.

A six-month programme of events begins on Easter Sunday with many special guests booked to speak or perform.

St. Bartholomew’s Church was commissioned by Fr Arthur Wagner and designed by local architect Edmund Scott, in an Italian Gothic style.

Fr Arthur was the son of a Priest and very generously built the church in one of the then poorer areas of Brighton at his own expense. Affectionately known as St.Bart’s, the Anglo-Catholic church has the tallest church roof in the British Isles and attracts visitors year-round.

The special anniversary programme begins on Sunday, March 31, with The Bishop of Lewes presiding and preaching and the Musicians of St.Bart’s performing.

The summer months see various events both at the church and other venues, including the Brighton Chamber Choir, organ recitals, lectures and heritage days.

The programme culminates in a fundraising gala dinner on 4th October which will officially launch redevelopment plans for the historic building.

“Our church reveals to our parish and city the beauty of holiness, which can be experienced by all the senses,” said parish Priest Fr Ben Eadon.

"Thanks to the work of Henry Wilson between 1899 and 1908, including the baldacchino, pulpit and font, our church speaks even more powerfully of the majesty of God.

“I invite you to join with us in celebrating this great heritage and history our Brighton church has.”

The programme of events can be found online at https://www.stbartholomewsbrighton.org.uk