Beginnings

Over 100 years ago a small group of people, led by a priest and his family, entered onto the grassy fields of Orchards, and ‘took guard’ for Christ.

The worship services began in the Norwood School Hall in 1906. That same year the first marriage took place in the Hall of the “Afrikaans Church”. And, in a fairly short space of time, the small church of St Luke’s, designed by Sir Herbert Baker, was erected on the present site.

Of the £1350 that were needed, £500 was raised through appeals. The balance of £850 was provided as a loan by Mrs Carter, wife of the first Rector of the parish, Fitzwilliam Carter. That loan was only finally repaid to her some 20 years later.