Worthing, St Andrew's Church 1890

Photo ref: 22702

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Although the Gothic style flint and Bath stone cruciform church was completed in 1886, it was not consecrated until 1888 due to strong and often bitter opposition from the rector of Broadwater and the vicars of Christchurch and Holy Trinity. Worthing's religious development had, during the 19th century, been profoundly influenced by the evangelical nature of worship at St Mary's Broadwater, and with the exception of Heene, all the churches in the town were strongly evangelical. Most Worthing churches smelt of polished floors and woodwork, rather than incense! St Andrew's still retains its High Church character and the congregation includes many non-parishioners who prefer the ritualistic style of worship. Meanwhile, the old Chapel of Ease, now St. Paul's, gradually returned from extreme evangelicalism to the middle ground before being closed a few years ago, due to the building fabric having become dangerous. Although some non-conformists were reluctant, all denominations gradually accepted the Gothic revival. The Baptist Chapel in Christchurch Road, built in brick and flint, reflected this style and was opened for divine worship on 18 March 1885.