THE BUILDING

St Gregory's was one of the first churches to be built in the south of England following the Second Vatican Council, and strives to meet the Council's ideals in its  layout.

The church is square, with seating on the east, north and west sides. The central sanctuary runs back to the south wall, with the altar the focal point at the centre of the building. The building is naturally lit by a north-facing lantern window. The baptismal font is situated at the entrance to the church itself, again central not sidelined.

The inside of the church is simple wood panelling.

THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS

In St Gregory’s are the work of Lyn Constable Maxwell. They were commissioned in 1990 as a memorial to Patrick O’Donovan and all deceased members of the parish by his wife. From 1949, for three decades, Patrick O’Donovan was The Observer’s leading roving correspondent, a distinguished broadcaster and catholic layman. From 1960, when he came to Alresford, until his death in 1981, the welfare of the parish was one of his dearest concerns. For the blessing of the Stations by Bishop Crispian Hollis at Easter 1990, the then parish priest, Fr Bernard Fisher, compiled a special text, incorporating the meditations which Lyn composed to inspire each Station, and illustrated by her son, Simon’s photographs. This was later printed in booklet form and is obtainable from St Gregory’s or Hermione O’Donovan, 45 Broad Street, Alresford S024 9AS, price £2.50. Go to see the Stations of the Cross. Note - to do them justice, the images are quite big, and may take a while to load. Be patient, it's worth it. Why not use the opportunity to reflect on the stations as they appear?

Father Fisher also gave to St Gregory’s Lyn’s Crucified and Risen Christ sculpture, completing the Stations’ Easter message.