In July 1939 the country was poised on the brink of a world war. Statesmen and politicians were concerned about the rise of Nazism in Germany and the effect it would have around the globe. In one part of North Staffordshire, however, a small community was concerned about another event – a much happier one – the laying of the foundation stone for a new parish church. Just 14 months later, on 12th October 1940, the church of St Francis of Assisi in Meir Heath was consecrated to the glory of God and the benefit of His people.
Back in 1929 the Bishop of Lichfield had launched the Diocesan Church and Schools appeal whereby the offerings of children in the diocese would be used towards the building of a church in an area of new population growth. The Bishop originally chose Friar Park (between Wednesbury and West Bromwich) as the site. However, another source of funding became available for that church and so the Bishop decided that the ‘Children’s Church’ should be located in Meir Heath.
The church, designed by W. Curtis Green in the ‘Art & Craft’ style, is rich in symbolism. It was built and furnished for the princely sum of £8,800 – although the tower included in the original design was abandoned. A number of features were added post war, but perhaps the most notable event was the installation of the Rev Herschel Bateman as priest in 1942 – a position he held for the next 35 years.
The Altar
Viewable PDF's of Original Documents
1940's
