St Margaret Pattens

The church of St Margaret Pattens on Eastcheap in the City of London is one of the famous of Christopher Wren's architectural beauties built to replace what was lost in London’s Great Fire of 1666. Unusually for him, it has a traditional spire; typically for him, the internals are awash with dark wood and light, painted ceilings and walls.

The church’s website boldly invites the viewer to come and visit:

Whether you are working in or around Eastcheap and Fenchurch Street, or visiting London, we hope you will find St Margaret Pattens a place of humanity, reflection and encouragement.

I presume 'humanity' here refers to humanitarianism; there is far too much of the other kind of fallen humanity characterising so much of the world. Interestingly, a blackboard was stored behind the doors, which is presumably left outside from time to time. It declared:

ANXIETY

DEPRESSION

YOU HAVE TRIED PHARMA

NOW TRY FAITH

Thursday Service

1pm-1.40

Perhaps some of the well-paid City types who walk past those doors each day are indeed suffering injuries to their mental health due to work pressures, and have found that pill popping does not quite solve it. Of course, faith itself cures nothing, but faith in, and relationship to, Jesus Christ, heals, soothes and strengthens. Truly, we seek comfort where there is none, and look for hope among deathly chemicals and packaged stimulants. For three hundred years, this church has preached an alternative. It is Jesus we need: no more, and no less.

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matthew 11:28-29, King James Version