The iconic All Saints Church in Borehamwood, renowned for its appearances in British film and television, is in search of a new vicar. This search comes after over three years without a resident rector, during which time the congregation has demonstrated resilience and creativity in maintaining their vibrant community.
Located on Shenley Road, All Saints Church is a familiar sight not only to Borehamwood locals but also to fans of classic British media. Its Jacobean-style architecture, standing since 1909, has appeared in productions like The Saint, On the Buses, and Confessions of a Window Cleaner.
Having served as a backdrop for numerous productions filmed in Elstree and Borehamwood, the church is now focused on casting a new leading role within its community. The Rev Louise Collins, team vicar for the Parish of Elstree and Borehamwood, which includes All Saints, emphasized the importance of filling this role. “We’ve not missed a Sunday in all that time,” she stated, attributing this to the dedication of churchwarden Pam and other behind-the-scenes efforts.
Despite the absence of a dedicated vicar, All Saints has remained active, hosting regular worship, weekday prayers, and events like concerts from Borehamwood Brass and the Elstree Mozart Players. It also serves as a civic venue, attended by local councillors and the mayor.
The church’s location in a town celebrated for its film and television history adds another layer to its story. Borehamwood is home to BBC Elstree Studios, famous for producing EastEnders and Strictly Come Dancing, and the newly opened Sky Studios Elstree, which has hosted productions such as Wicked 2.
Rev Collins, who also serves as chaplain to Sky Studios, noted the fast-paced nature of the industry. “It’s demanding, but people are often open to conversations about purpose and faith,” she said. The chaplaincy role involves offering support and listening without an agenda.
The shortage of clergy has challenged the congregation, prompting more lay leadership and innovative ministry approaches, from carol singing in pubs to annual events like the Bluebell Pilgrimage.
Technology has also played a role, with the pandemic prompting the use of livestreamed services and Zoom meetings, tools the parish continues to use. “For some, the first contact is online,” Collins explained. “It’s not a replacement for in-person worship, but it’s often the bridge.”
The congregation at All Saints hopes that a new vicar will appreciate their strong community roots and willingness to embrace new ideas. As a new member, a former actor, expressed, “Growth, fellowship and love for one another. That’s what we’re looking forward to.”
In a town where a simple glance at a church can evoke memories of television’s golden moments, the ongoing search for a new vicar is a testament to All Saints’ evolving narrative—one that continues to be written both on-screen and within the community.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
