The History of Stockwell Spiritualist Church

Origins (1902–1914)

The story of Stockwell Spiritualist Church began in October 1902, founded as Brixton Spiritualist Church by early pioneers including James “Daddy” Payne. Its first home was a modest room above a shop in Mayall Road, Brixton, where meetings were held for 11 years. Within these humble walls, the early congregation met for worship, healing, and Lyceum instruction for children, laying the foundation of what would become one of London’s most enduring centres of Spiritualism. Growth and the deepening need for space led to a move to Stockwell Park Road, into the converted stables of the Duke of Cambridge—an unlikely sanctuary that soon echoed with hymns, philosophy, and spirit communication. A Worship Certificate was granted in 1914, securing the church’s formal recognition.

Between the Wars & A New Sanctuary (1914–1939)

The church flourished between the wars. In 1922, a Certificate for the Solemnization of Marriage was granted, allowing Spiritualist marriage ceremonies to take place. As membership increased, the congregation dreamed of a purpose-built home. With assistance from the Spiritualists’ National Union (SNU)—who provided a mortgage of £2,500—land was purchased in St Michael’s Road, Stockwell, and the present church was completed and opened in October 1936. This new building, specifically designed for Spiritualist worship, stood as a testament to faith, community, and perseverance.

War, Recovery & The Healing Era (1939–1950s)

World War II brought both damage and determination. Bombing raids struck the area, but services continued even during blackouts. The SNU held the deeds and kept the church financially afloat until it could reform in 1944 under President Patrick Mumford. The post-war years birthed a powerful new focus: healing. A dedicated Healing Sanctuary opened at 27 Stockwell Road (c.1954), offering healing Monday to Friday evenings, guided by spirit doctors and dedicated volunteers. The clinic became one of the most active in the movement, with a band of fourteen healers. By 1952, the Golden Jubilee Year, the church had cleared its entire £3,000 mortgage—a remarkable feat. Membership had soared from forty to over 260. The deeds were ceremonially presented back to the SNU for safekeeping. Key figures included Trevor Snell (President), Mrs. Snell (Treasurer), W.A. Merrills (Secretary), George Ratcliffe and M. Boddington (Vice Presidents), and John Hewitt (Healing Lead). It was Merrills who gave the now-famous quote: “We are all potential mediums… there must be a power which looks after us all our lives.” (The Free Press & Lambeth Borough News, October 3rd, 1952) Community,

Culture & Notable Moments (1960s–1990s)

Through the decades, Stockwell Spiritualist Church remained a vibrant community hub. By 1977, the programme included healing, Lyceum, and demonstrations, with visiting mediums like Harry Edwards inspiring new generations. In the 1980s, the church officially adopted the name Stockwell Spiritualist Church, reflecting its locality and enduring presence amid the Brixton upheavals. • 1982 – Evidential work at Wimbledon with Marion Dampier-Jeans (Martinez) made waves internationally. • 1985 – Despite local riots, services continued. Medium Robin Stevens famously completed his demonstration as unrest raged outside. • Mid-1980s – A period of rebuilding and renewal: roof and heating repairs, rewiring, and community fundraising events like the AIDS Appeal Service (with mediums Marion Martinez and Bruce Bayley) and Help the Aged fundraisers at All Hallows by the Tower. • 1992 – 90th Anniversary: Under President Stevie Walsh (Welsh), the church celebrated with healing, psychic art, and renewed community spirit. Membership stood around 120, with plans for refurbishment and garden restoration.

Interfaith & Inclusivity (1990s–Present)

Stockwell Spiritualist Church has always welcomed all faiths and backgrounds. In 1983, it hosted members of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star (Nigeria) in an interfaith exchange. A deeply symbolic moment came in 2014, when two Muslim women in hijab and two Orthodox Jewish youths prayed side by side before the Sunday service—joined by the congregation in silent unity. This act reflected the church’s enduring ethos: all who seek Spirit are welcome. People & Contributors (Selected) Founders: James “Daddy” Payne and early pioneers. Leaders & Stewards: Trevor Snell, W.A. Merrills, Patrick Mumford, Percy Wilson (SNU), John Stewart, Frank & Mrs. Brown, Colin Merrills, John Hewitt, Stevie Walsh/Welsh, Irene Price, Leoni Lavercombe. Mediums & Healers: Marion Dampier-Jeans (Martinez), Coral Polge, Bruce Bayley, Robin Stevens, David Lamond, Tony Katz, Pauline Woodhatch, Jane Heppy, Derek & Sue Sheerman, Geoff, and many others. Friends & Supporters: Chili Bouchier, All Hallows by the Tower clergy, and countless visiting mediums and congregants. Physical Homes – The Road to St Michael’s 1. Mayall Road, Brixton – Room above a shop (11 years) 2. Stockwell Park Road – Converted stables of the Duke of Cambridge (23 years) 3. St Michael’s Road, Stockwell – Purpose-built church (opened October 1936; still home today) Legacy & Spirit For over a century, Stockwell Spiritualist Church has stood as a beacon of light, healing, and evidence of survival beyond death. Through two World Wars, social change, and countless evolutions in faith and understanding, it remains a place of truth, peace, and compassion. Today, in its 123rd year (2025), the church continues to serve as a living testament to the endurance of Spirit, an anchor of community, and a sacred bridge between worlds. “From a room above a shop to a sanctuary of light—Stockwell Spiritualist Church remains a lamp of love and truth for all who seek Spirit.”