Old St Paul's — Attraction in North Island

This felt so wrong. I love Old Saint Paul's. It has been a family favorite for decades. I haven't been for quite a while. I needed to let the memory of sad moments there, fade a little. I went back yesterday. I was told that to enter (a church)' I "had to" give a donation.' - firstly if "i have to pay for it", it's not a donation, its a floating rate. Secondly its a church, this is sacred space and should be free. Yes the need money for upkeep, but have some faith and let god guide people support the space. Make a separate space, even another building to explain why the money is needed and the journey of the church. While we are on the topic of doing things that make the space feel unsacred. Why are they playing horror movies there? Why are they playing horrible, non relevant music? Why are they talking loudly and not remembering that this was once a house of god. For goodness sake, have some respect.. They building is lovely. The space, beautiful as ever. But if you are looking for that vibe of divinity that Old Saint Pauls use to have in spades, save your money, ...

I was a Chorister here from around 1958 to 1962 under the leadership of organist Eric Copperwheat. I can honestly say, they were some of the happiest years of my life and Eric was one of the kindest, most genuine people I have ever met.

There would be choir practise twice a week. The choir would sing the Sunday morning service and then Evensong on Sunday evening. We also sang at some weddings too.

Sadly I had to leave, as my family was moving to Australia. When I left I had become Head Chorister.

The sound in this building is phenomenal because of the different densities of the timbers. When you are in this space, it's like you have come home and it's like a huge cubby house.

I personally reckon that God, when he needs a break from his Godly duties, comes here, sits in the very last pew in the back of the church and just chills out because it's just that...

We hadn't planned on seeing this church, but I noticed it was open when we drove past so took the opportunity to have a look. Wow.. it was cute from the outside, but it belies just how glorious it is inside. It was all wood and lush red carpet with full size Christmas tree and glowing lights giving it an incredible sense of warmth. The original 19th century wooden framework in the ceiling was worth the visit alone. It was a surprise, though not disturbingly so, to find a small shop tucked away to the side near the front with beautiful items for sale, including lovely postcards of the church. I'm told the church hosts choral concerts from time to time - I'll definitely want to return to experience that in such inspiring...