Our History

St Michael the Archangel Church, Tokyngton-Wembley - commonly and affectionately known as St Michael's, was consecrated as a permanent parish church in February 1933.

The building is thought to be traditionally founded by Abbott Stidberht, who obtained the surrounding lands by exchange with King Offa in 767 AD. This is attested by a Canterbury manuscript in the British Museum. However, it is possible that Abbott found a building of some kind already in existence, as Roman tiles and bricks have been found near the site.

St Michaels became a "Free Chapel" (meaning it was exempt from the jurisdiction of the Bishop and Archdeacon), and a Chantry where there was a daily Mass for the souls of the benefactors. It was first mentioned in 1234. In 1545 when it had 72 communicants, the Chantry of  Tokyngton was surrendered to King Henry VIII. The premises was leased to a local family named Read, and ceased to be used for sacred purposes.

The Tokyngton name derives from a medieval chapel that was in the area until 1700's. There is a mention in the archives of the "Church of Tokyngton" being Wembley's only church until 1846. However, it was in 1925, with the arrival of the Reverend H.W.R Elsley from a parish in Spitalfields, that the work of re-founding the parish of Tokyngton began in earnest. A temporary wooden church was erected in March 1926, and served the community until the present building was erected.

The foundation stone was laid by Dr Cyril Norwood - Headmaster of Harrow School, on 23rd July 1932. On 18th February 1933, the Bishop of London - the Right Reverend Arthur Foley, consecrated and dedicated the church building.

The new church cost £9,000 to build, with the bulk of the money being raised by the local residents. The plans were designed by  Cyril Fairly, and the construction work was carried out by Messrs Bollan of Acton. A statue of Saint Michael stands above the main porch and was specially designed and carved by Mr Newbury A. Trent.

The church bell was presented from St Thomas' Church - Parliament Square. It was constructed by Mears, and is dated 1838.

The nave still consists of several bays. All of the seats are in the center; the aisles being used as ambulatories. The interior has a cathedral-like appearance, where there was originally accommodation for 400. Today, the church comfortably seats 226.

In the late 1970's, St Michael's began to embrace a more Anglo-Catholic liturgical style, and is now rooted in that tradition. Although, it is not a daily Mass parish, there is the opportunity to attend Mass during the week, and on Sunday mornings there is a Parish Mass. All Solemnities and feast days are also observed.

Please refer to our Services & Worship page for our upcoming service schedule.

The  Parish of St Michael the Archangel, Tokyngton-Wembley, is now a multi-cultural community with some members travelling from outside of the parish to attend church. We continue to worship, pray, love and serve the Lord, all while ensuring that we continue the original mission - to be a constant Christian presence in Brent, for many years  to come.

Saint Michael the Archangel

Saint Michael is an Archangel of God who plays a significant role in Christianity. He is referenced in the Old Testament and in some of the earliest Christian writings and traditions.

Saint Michael acts as the defender of the Church and the faithful, whom he defends against the constant assaults of the devil.                            He has four main roles or offices;

• The leader of the Army of God.
• The Angel of Death who assists people at their hour of death and carries the souls of Christians to Heaven.
• The patron of the Chosen People in the Old Testament.
• The Guardian of the Church.

Saint Michael is celebrated on 29th September, and is often depicted in art with a sword and a banner or scales.

A widely used 'Prayer to Saint Michael' was brought into official use by Pope Leo XIII in 1886, and was recommended by Pope John Paul II in 1994.

Prayer to Saint Michael

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle.

Be our safeguard against the wiles and wickedness of the devil.

Restrain him, O God, we humbly pray,

and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God,

cast into Hell Satan and all evil spirits who prowl around the world

seeking the ruin and destruction of souls.

Amen.

You are warmly invited to visit our lovely church - we give excellent unofficial tours (and sometimes biscuits).                                                         

But even better, why not join us for our Sunday Parish Mass at 10:00am? We promise friendly faces, good vibes and zero entry fee!.