This fine Victorian Parish Church is very much the centre of community life in Bonchurch village. The community meet for weekly services, and also for coffee mornings, concerts and other events. Proud of their strong musical tradition, there is a fine organ, excellent organist, and choral services.
The church dates from 1847 and 1848 by the architect Ferrey. It was built to replace the nearby Old St Boniface Church, although it escaped demolition. The church is cruciform in shape with a south porch and two north vestries and an organ chamber. The bell turret contains a single bell which weighs 4cwt and is tuned to the key of Eb. Much of the funds for building the Church were paid for by Captain Swinburne, father of Algernon Swinburne, the poet. The highly formidable Tractarian family, the Sewells, were deeply involved in the formation of this Church.
On the screen dividing the Rector's Stall from the nave is a memorial to Lord Admiral Earl Jellicoe of the Battle of Jutland, who worshipped here.
Triptych East Windows are an early work by William Wailes and depicts various scenes of Christ's life on earth. The roundel window crowning the triptych depicts The Angels appearing to the Shepherds announcing Christ's birth. The windows around the church feature many saints including the East Anglian saints, St Benedict Biscop, tutor to the Venerable Bede, and St Edith of Wilton. Much of the stained glass is by Henry Holiday and Shrigley and Hunt.
