Following the death of his parents #JamesGibbs travelled through Europe & in 1703, registered as a student at #TheScotsCollege in Rome; a seminary into the priesthood for the dioceses of the Roman Catholic Church in Scotland. But he had second thoughts & by the end of 1704 he was studying Architecture & moved to London in November 1708. #StMaryLeStrand#JewelintheStrand
After 2 World Wars & 300 years of wear & tear, #StMaryLeStrand is in need of restoration & some of it is urgent. In 1984, the Spire was rebuilt & since then, award-winning new steps & railings have been erected in the East; the gates & gate posts in the West conserved; & 19th Century railings, walls & pave stones in the churchyard restored. Save the #JewelintheStrand
Expert restoration of #StMaryLeStrand includes paintings by #MatherBrown & 10 #Nave windows beautifully reglazed with 18CE glass. The blue-glass in the sanctuary dates 1946 & is the work of parish architect #SidneyToy FRIBA who replaced the originals after they were destroyed in #WW2. Yet more work needs to be done to save the #JewelintheStrand
With a renewed mission & ministry #StMaryLeStrand stands in the heart of the regenerated #StrandAldwych area. Plans are in place to restore & redevelop the church so it is safe, accessible and fit for purpose in its new role as a place of worship & sanctuary; a public democratic space for communities & as the centrepiece of a newly pedestrianised piazza. #JewelintheStrand
Churches do not generally receive government funding & money is needed to restore #StMaryLeStrand. The restoration work includes the stonework on the roof; electrics & heating systems, the western vestibule & steps, interior redecoration & the exterior cleaning. All this could cost over £lM. Donations are needed if all the work is to proceed. Help save the #JewelintheStrand
An ideal #Venue for intimate #Concert recitals & carol services, #StMaryLeStrand#Church in #StrandAldwych#London is a #Venue that boasts stunning architecture, beautiful acoustics & a brand new Steinway Grand Piano. Known as the #JewelintheStrand it is a perfect place for all kinds of #Music, hosting live candlelit performances throughout the year.