Father Richard Temple West
The first Vicar of St Mary Magdalene’s was Father Richard Temple West, formerly a curate at All Saints, Margaret Street near Oxford Circus. Coming from a wealthy and aristocratic background, West had strong social and political connections, which made him an exceptional fundraiser.
He became friends with the architect George Edmund Street, a fellow worshipper at All Saints, and together they shared a vision – to build a beautiful new church in the deprived area of Paddington. Thanks to West’s influence and determination, that vision became reality. The church was completed swiftly and faithfully to plan, opening its doors in 1873. Once in place, West introduced an Anglo-Catholic style of worship—rich in ritual, colour, and music. He believed that such beauty and solemnity could communicate an emotional Christianity to the local poor in a powerful and accessible way. Father West remained devoted to his parish, serving faithfully until his death in 1893.
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