Places of Worship in Soho, London

My attention has been drawn to all the places of worship there are in Soho, so I have decided to list them here, along with my observations and opinions, of course.

Hare Krishna Temple

The Hare Krishna Temple in Soho Street, just to the north of Soho Square is a remarkable, spiritual, peaceful and welcoming space for prayer. Situated just north of Soho Square and above Govinda's Vegitarian Restaurant, the temple welcomes all for teaching, meditation and prayer.

City Gates Church

City Gates Church can be found in a small alley in Soho, Greens Court, just off of Peter Street. City Gates moved recently (2009) from one side of the alley to the other to take advantage of bigger premises that were available to let from Westminster Council. The City Gates Church is a Chrsitian Mission and as well as running prayer meetings and groups from this base also operates a sandwich service for the needy. I have heard many complaints about the fairness of this service, and even been told of bullying and abuse of the most vulnerable. City Gates Church really needs to sort this out as they are collecting sandwiches and food from some of the big brand names in Soho, Pret a Manger, Greggs, and this doesn't reflect well on the churches Christian mission.

St Patricks Church

St. Patricks Church is a catholic church fronting onto Soho Square. St. Patrick's was founded by Catholic Irish immigrants in the 19th century. The church is always open for prayer and does good work providing support and activities for the homeless and needy of Central London.

Islamic Centre Mosque

There is a mosque in Berwick Street at number 10. The mangement of the mosque is Bangladeshi and it has a capacity of 150.

St. Annes Church

Enter St. Annes Church from Dean Street and you will encounter a small prayer room, just along a narrow alley that is welcoming, placid and calm for worship. Approach St. Annes from Wardour Street however and you will be dismayed by the forbidding and threatening fences surrounding the church grounds. I find the fence intimidating and it clearly sends a message - KEEP OUT. Also, I have heard reports of the less-advantaged being turned away from events held in these gardens in the summer due to not being able to afford the entry fees. What a shame that church grounds that ought to be welcoming and open to all are so forbidding and unwelcoming.