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The Victorians, in the closing years of the reign, built churches at a phenomenal rate - though many have not survived the purges of the 1950-60's - when the slums and terraces where knocked into oblivion. It is, perhaps, a minor miracle that St. Benedict's should still remain today teaching only the catholic faith it meets a need and maybe, this is the secret of its survival however, we need another miracle now to enable us to survive into the Twenty First Century.
The Bennett family were completely responsible for the building of this fine church. The founder was John Marsland Bennett who was married to Mary had five children. John and Mary were staunch church-goers and from the beginning played an active role in the life of St. Benedict's and filled all key positions. The need for a church in the area was first realized by Canon Tongue who was the secretary to the Manchester Diocesan Church Building Society. In September 1876 he called on Alderman John Bennett and asked for a plot of land to be given with which they might erect a church. Mr Bennett's answer exceeded the expectation of the Canon, he not only granted the required land, but undertook the responsibility of erecting and equipping the project.
The architect was Mr. J.S. Growther who was instructed to proceed. The intention of the founder, as reported by his son, was "that the building should be plain, but massive" and that the catholic faith should be taught in its fulness.
The deed for the foundations were signed on 25th January 1877 and excavation commenced four days later. The foundations were completed on Ascension Day (May 10th). Then came a pause, due mainly because the founder wanted control of the patronage. Bishop Fraser thought differently as he wanted to be patron and not another brick was laid until the Bishop conceded. The Patronage deeds were signed on 10th November 1877 and building commenced on the 21st January 1878; the highest point of the tower was reached on the 3rd October 1878
The interior of the church with exception of the sanctuary, has altered very little over the years. The baldacchino was built in the early Sixties and replaced the original hangings and drapes which had become dangerous and dilapidated. The original High Altar stands on the wall behind the baldacchino, under the East window. The money for the alterations came from a surprise bequest from a Fr. Willoughby who was not in the living but attended incognito.
 The High Altar with Baldacchino |
Monday: Low Mass - 10.00 am
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