St. Matthew's Church, Sheffield

Saint Matthew's Church, also known as Saint Matthew's Carver Street, is an active Anglo-Catholic church situated in the heart of Sheffield. The church was consecrated on June 6, 1855, and was originally located within a densely populated area of slum housing. Today, it finds itself in the vibrant Devonshire Quarter, known for its independent shops, pubs, bars, and a large student population.

At the turn of the 20th century, Saint Matthew's became a prominent center for the Catholic Revival within the Church of England, attracting those interested in Anglo-Catholic traditions and teachings. Architecturally, the church is noted for its octagonal bell tower at the west end, crowned with a tall and graceful spire, which was once described as "a neat building with a graceful spire."

Near the main entrance on Carver Street, a war memorial plaque honors local worshipers and parishioners who lost their lives in World War I. Above the entrance is a Crucifixion statue. Remarkably, the church survived the Sheffield Blitz during World War II without damage, despite significant destruction in the surrounding area and casualties within the local parish.

The interior of Saint Matthew's Church is richly adorned, featuring three main stained glass windows dating from 1886 to 1902 that depict the Incarnation, Saint Matthew, and other saints. The altar and reredos were designed by J. D. Sedding, with carvings by Frank Tory and a centerpiece painting of the Adoration by Nathaniel Westlake. Much of the church's interior furnishings are the work of Henry Wilson, further enhancing its ornate design.

The church's organ, built in 1992 by Martin Goetze and Dominic Gwynn, follows the classic British style inspired by the early works of the renowned organ maker Bernard Smith. This blend of rich history, unique architecture, and dedicated craftsmanship make Saint Matthew's a distinguished and beloved place of worship in Sheffield.