Farther on in Leadenhall St., to the left, is the church of St. Katherine Cree (i.e. Christchurch, from an old priory; open 12-2), rebuilt in 1628-30 and doubtfully ascribed to Inigo Jones. The tower dates from the early 16th century. The new church was consecrated by Laud (then Bishop of London) with elaborate services, the 'Popish' character of which afterwards figured among the charges at his trial.
The upper part of the east window, with stained glass of 1713, is in the form of a Catherine-wheel. The organ was built by Father Smith. Laud's prayer-book and Bible are kept in a case on the north side of the altar. At the south-west angle a pillar of the old church projects 3 feet above the floor, the level of which is said to have risen 15 feet. The monument of Sir Nicholas Throgmorton (died 1570; south wall) is likewise from the old church. An unverified tradition has it that Holbein (died 1543) was buried in the earlier church. The annual 'Lion Sermon' on October 16th commemorates the escape from a lion of Lord Mayor Gayer, who held office in Charles I.'s time (modern brass in front of altar). The font is old.
The ancient sign (a crown and three sugar-loaves) at No. 14 Creechurch Lane once hung (at 44 Fenchurch St.) on the premises of the consigners of part of the cargo of tea thrown into Boston Harbour at the famous 'tea-party' of 1773.
