A Tour of the London Oratory: The Little Oratory

Continuing on with our tour of the London Oratory, today we give consideration to the Little Oratory. The Little Oratory is not located within the main church itself, but is rather located to the west end of the Oratory House. This chapel is the domestic chapel of the Oratorians, used also by the Brothers of the Little Oratory -- a lay confraternity who assist the Fathers in the Solemn Masses and Sunday Vespers.

Here is a look at the altar and sanctuary:

Photo: Rick Yoder

The chapel is setup in "collegiate" or choir format, with choir stalls on each side of the nave facing one another.

Photo: Joseph Shaw

In the mid-19th century the organ gallery was added. In 1872, John Hungerford Pollen decorated the chapel with a new marble altar, organ case and other decorations.

The entrance to the Little Oratory
Photo: Rick Yoder

In the mid-20th century, grisaille paintings (i.e. monochromatic paintings all in grey or some other neutral shade) were added to the chapel by Edgar Ritchard. 

Photo: Rick Yoder

Photo: Rick Yoder

To conclude our look at the Little Oratory, here is a view of the decorated ceiling:

Photo: Joseph Shaw

Having visited the Little Oratory, I can tell you that it is not to be missed.