Our History
Building the Church
1714: Ralph Thoresby embarked on a crusade to find funding to build a new church. The resources came from Lady Elizabeth Hastings, Rev'd Henry Robinson (vicar of St John's Church, Leeds 1683-1696) and a number of generous donors. The architect, William Halfpenny produced the original drawings and William Etty of York was the principal architect.
1722: Foundation stone was laid by Rev'd Henry Robinson
1727: The Church was consecrated by the Most Rev'd Lancelot Blackburn, Archbishop of York.
Lady Chapel
The Lady Chapel is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The centre piece portrays the Annunciation to Mary that she is to be the mother of the Christ-child. The Lady Chapel is currently a space to be quiet and talk with God in the midst of the busy city.
Pulpit
Rev'd James Scott (1727-82) was renowned as a gifted preacher and active pamphleteer. While he was vicar demand for seats in the Church was so great that galleries were installed in the Church 1755. Preaching is still central to our vision as we try to find ways of sharing God’s love and serving those who work in the centre of Leeds.
Notable Features
Altar
Rev'd Richard Bullock (1882-1899) reordered the Church, removing galleries, moving the pulpit and reorganising the pews. This made the altar, where communion was celebrated, the focal point of the Church rather than the pulpit. Our weekly communion service provides an opportunity to remember Christ's sacrifice and encounter his presence today.
Monuments
The Pelican above the altar shows a parent bird with three young ones plucking at her breast. It depicts a medieval symbol for Holy Communion.
The Coat of Arms is in its original position above the main entrance. It represents the Royal Arms of the period from 1714 to 1800.
The Monument of Henry Robinson, on the north wall, is the oldest monument in the Church. It is in memory of the “venerable founder” of the Church. He died at the age of age 90 and was buried in the Church in 1736.
Holy Trinity TODAY
Since 2021, Holy Trinity has been home to a midweek ministry to love and serve those working in the heart of the city. We have regular services, offer chaplaincy, host a range of events and more!
Regular services:
Tuesdays 12.30: Daily Bread (Holy Communion)
Wednesdays 8.00: Prayer Breakfast
Second Tuesday of the Month 17.30: After Work Worship
