Kew Baptist Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kew Baptist Church |
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| 51°28′20.1″N 0°17′14.7″W / 51.472250°N 0.287417°W | |
| Location | 2a Windsor Road, Richmond, London TW9 2EL |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Denomination | Baptist |
| History | |
| Founded | 1861 (in Richmond, as Salem Baptist Church) |
Kew Baptist Church is a Christian church located in Kew, a part of London. It is an independent church that follows evangelical beliefs. This means they focus on the Bible and sharing the Christian message. The church is connected with the Association of Grace Baptist Churches (South East). You can find it on Windsor Road in Kew, which is in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. The current pastor, or leader, of the church is Jonathan Worsley.
Contents
The History of Kew Baptist Church
Kew Baptist Church has a long and interesting history that goes back over 160 years. It started in a different location and under a different name before becoming the church it is today.
Early Beginnings in Richmond
The church first began in 1861. It was not in Kew at that time, but in a nearby area called Richmond, London. When it started, it was known as Salem Baptist Church. The first place where the church met was at 5 Parkshot. This building is quite old and important, so it is a Grade II listed building. This means it has special historical or architectural value.
Moving to Kew and a New Name
After many years in Richmond, the church decided to move to a new location. In 1973, the congregation moved from Parkshot to Windsor Road in Kew. This new building became their home. Later, in 1990, the church changed its name to reflect its new location. It became known as Kew Baptist Church, the name it still uses today.
What is a Baptist Church?
Kew Baptist Church is part of the Baptist Christian tradition. Baptists are a type of Protestant church. They have some key beliefs and practices that make them unique.
Core Baptist Beliefs
- Believer's Baptism: One of the most important beliefs for Baptists is that baptism should be for people who have chosen to follow Jesus for themselves. This is different from some other churches that baptize babies.
- The Bible as Authority: Baptists believe the Bible is the main guide for their faith and lives. They study it carefully to understand God's will.
- Local Church Independence: Each Baptist church is usually independent. This means they make their own decisions about how they are run and what they believe. They are not controlled by a central authority.
- Religious Freedom: Baptists have historically supported the idea that everyone should be free to choose their own beliefs without government interference.
What Does "Evangelical" Mean?
Kew Baptist Church is described as an "evangelical" church. This term refers to a broad movement within Protestant Christianity. Evangelical Christians believe in:
- The importance of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
- The authority of the Bible.
- Sharing the Christian message with others.
- The death and resurrection of Jesus as central to their faith.
Being Part of the Community
Kew Baptist Church is more than just a building; it's a community of people. They meet regularly for worship services, Bible studies, and other activities. Being part of a church community can offer support, friendship, and a place to learn and grow in faith. The church aims to serve the local community in Kew and share its message of hope.
