St Thomas the Apostle Church first opened for Sunday Mass on 5th November 1905, originally located in a blacksmith’s forge on Hollydale Road. Funded by Miss Frances Ellis, the church cost £3,000 and was one of many “Ellis Boxes” built across London.

Fr. Peter Ryan was the first parish priest, followed by Fr. George Leidig during WWI, who faced discrimination due to his German surname. He moved the presbytery to 81 Evelina Road before passing away in 1921.

Fr. Cornelius O'Donoghue improved finances and built a church hall. The Stations of the Cross were added in 1927. Fr. Donal O'Brien rebuilt the presbytery in 1937.

During WWII, a bomb damaged the church and presbytery. Masses were temporarily held above a pub. Repairs were completed by 1945.

Fr. Hugh Lagan expanded the church in the 1970s to accommodate growing attendance. He retired in 1982. Fr. Anthony Cridland oversaw Vatican II reforms and the church’s consecration in 1989.

In 1996, the Sacred Hearts Fathers took over, followed by the Missionaries of St. Paul (MSP) in 2010 due to declining priest numbers.

St. Thomas the Apostle, known for doubting Christ’s resurrection, later preached in Persia and India. His symbol is the builder’s square. His memorial is celebrated on 3 July.