The church of St John on Bethnal Green was designed by Sir John Soane and was built between 1824-1828. This beautiful building is located in the heart of the east end, on top of Bethnal Green underground station. It retains some of its original features although the crypt has been modified and houses a number of local community groups: English classes, alternative therapies and medicines as well as the church's community art room which offers stone carving, stained glass and mosaic classes for adults.
In 2008 the contemporary British artist Chris Gollon completed a commission to paint a new set of stations of the Cross. The 14 paintings are an important part of the spiritual life of the church. The intention is not to provide a set of religious answers; rather they are challenging and engaging to believers of all faiths and none.