Woodstock Road Baptist Church facts for kids
Woodstock Road Baptist Church is a Christian church located in Summertown, Oxford, UK. It is a type of church called an evangelical church, which means its members believe strongly in the Bible and sharing their faith. It is also part of a group called the Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches.
Contents
History of the Church
How it Started
Woodstock Road Baptist Church first opened its doors in 1897. Before the building was ready, a group of people met outdoors for worship. They were led by a person named Rev J. H. Moore. These early members were part of the baptist tradition, which is a branch of protestant Christianity.
The church was built on Woodstock Road in Summertown. The first building was called Victoria Hall. This name honored Queen Victoria during her Diamond Jubilee. The building was made of white brick with stone. It could hold about 100 people. One wall was made of wood, so the church could easily expand later.
Growing and Changing
The church building grew in the 1930s. A new section was added, which helped the church hold more people. Today, the church has seating for about 120 people.
For many years, the church was part of the Baptist Union. However, in the 1980s, the church decided to become independent. This happened because of different ideas about what the church should believe and teach. The church leaders, including Pastor Keith Stokes, updated the church's legal documents in the 1990s. This change allowed the church to be separate. Woodstock Road Baptist Church, sometimes called WRBC or Woody Road, focuses on teaching and following the bible.
Recent Renovations
The church building has had some updates recently. It closed for renovations from September 2012 to December 2012. It closed again from September 2013 to April 2014. The church officially reopened on April 2, 2014.
Church Services and Activities
Gatherings During the Week
Besides Sunday services, members of the church meet in smaller groups. These "homegroups" gather in different places around the city. They meet on the first, second, and third Wednesdays of each month.
Online Services
If you cannot attend in person, church services are also available online. You can watch them live on the church's website at Church Services.
What the Church Believes
The church has clear beliefs about Christianity. You can find all the details about what Woodstock Road Baptist Church believes on their official website. Visit Doctrine and Beliefs to learn more.
