Oxford Mission Church is one of the oldest Anglican churches not only in Barisal but also in the entire country of Bangladesh.

It all started with the fact that in the middle of the 18th century Barisal, a river port city, began to attract more and more Christian missionaries. They came here, built houses, brought their own rules and traditions, and, of course, spread their faith.

The Brotherhood of the Epiphany was formed here in 1895. Its purpose was not only to promote religion but also to educate locals. A Sisterhood appeared a few years later, in 1902. It accepted women who wanted to learn about the new faith and benefit society.

Gradually, the missionaries expanded their spheres of influence. So, thanks to them, first an English boarding school for children appeared in Barisal, then – Christian youth dormitories. And later, they opened an orphanage, a comprehensive school, and a fairly large medical center.

In 1903, a fairly influential community of English missionaries began to build their own church, which was called the Epiphany Church. Work went on quickly enough, so the first service was held in the church in 1907.

Even though the exterior of this church looks quite modest, its architectural design is a continuation of the classical Greek style: the lack of external decoration, which is compensated by the simplicity and conciseness of forms and volumes.

From the outside, it may seem that Oxford Mission Church is a multi-story building. In fact, it’s not. There is only one floor, but the height of the prayer hall is equal to a five-story house.

The interior decoration of the temple is also not pompous, but rather ascetic. That makes it even more valuable. Almost everything is made of natural materials: the walls are finished with wood and decorated with elaborate carvings, and the floor and the baptismal font are made of natural marble.

The area around the temple is no less attractive: 13 ponds of different sizes and small parks with a beautiful library hidden in the thick of trees. It is a great place for walking, thinking, and enjoying nature.