St Stephen

St Stephen's was built by the eminent Birmingham architect Charles Preedy between 1861-1862. It is Grade II listed and is of sandstone ashlar with plain tile roofs. It has a lofty aisled nave and chancel, of a decorative style with four pointed arches separating the nave from the aisles. The nave is lit by large windows and clerestory that produces a cathedral-like atmosphere. The Lady chapel was built between 1912-16. The tower is of three stages, with double buttresses and a newel staircase leading to its top. The tower has openings at the bell-ringing chamber level. The south porch is the main entrance and has a pointed moulded arch set on paired marble columns with stiffleaf capitals. The west door is similarly enclosed by arched stonework and opens on to late 20th century brick and tiled covered way with a recently constructed paved access ramp.

Pews in the north aisle have been removed to provide a large area for children’s play, and community and church groups enjoying refreshments and activities. The moveable nave altar on a raised platform is the regular focus of the services. The high altar stands before a beautiful alabaster reredos on the east wall and consists of five compartments, or trefoiled canopies, with the Greek cross in the central one and emblems of the Evangelists in the others. Above, there is some fine stained glass including windows probably by John Hardman of Birmingham, their subject being Moses lifting up a serpent, Abraham about to sacrifice his son, the crucifixion and resurrection.

The attractive lady chapel is accessed via a wooden screen and provides a quiet and reflective place used for private prayer, weekday services and notably at the Easter passion. Again, there is some fine stained glass in the windows.

The Nicolson pipe organ is no longer used, being replaced by an impressive digital two manual organ with a full pedal board, with loud speakers located in and around the choir.

The church sits within a large churchyard with mature trees and pathways providing a valuable open space for the surrounding residential community.