2005 A New Life as Alma de Cuba After its closure as a church, St. Peter’s sat dormant until 2005, when it was transformed into the acclaimed restaurant and bar, Alma de Cuba. The venue retained much of the building’s original architecture, including its stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and intricate stonework. Alma de Cuba brought a vibrant energy to Seel Street, merging the building’s historical essence with a unique Latin-inspired ambiance. It became a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, drawing notable figures from Liverpool’s social and cultural scene, including Sir Paul McCartney and football legend Steven Gerrard. This period as Alma de Cuba showcased the adaptability of St. Peter’s, proving that even a centuries-old structure could evolve with the times while preserving its heritage. The venue’s creative use of the space, such as repurposing the former altar area as a stage for live performances, paid homage to the building’s past while embracing a modern function.
1976-1978 A Final Chapter for the Church Despite its storied history, the late 20th century brought challenges as Liverpool’s religious landscape began to shift, leading to a decline in church attendance. In 1976, St. Peter’s ceased functioning as a Catholic church, but it continued to serve as a spiritual home for the Polish community for two more years until 1978, earning it the nickname “The Polish Church.” This marked the end of St. Peter’s as a place of worship, but its architectural and historical significance ensured that it would not be forgotten. Mother Teresa’s Visit A Moment of Reverence In the late 20th century, St. Peter’s Church welcomed one of the most revered figures in modern history, Mother Teresa. Known globally for her humanitarian work, Mother Teresa’s visit was a profound moment for St. Peter’s, reinforcing its legacy as a place of compassion and community service. Mother Teresa’s presence highlighted the church’s ongoing commitment to supporting the vulnerable, a mission that had defined it since its early days. She met with community members, oering blessings and words of encouragement, a gesture that solidified St. Peter’s place in the hearts of Liverpool’s faithful.
Mother Teresa in church in Liverpool, Merseyside. June 17, 1996
The View towards the Altar – 1920 – Copyright Liverpool Record Oce . On the Altar states ‘I am the Good Shepherd’. This wording is visible in the image and this wording survives till at least 1932.
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