1. We are a local church that is independent and answerable only to the risen Lord Jesus. This is emphasised by the words displayed inside the church building – JESUS CHRIST IS LORD.

However, we maintain friendship and co-operate with other churches locally, and nationally through Partnership, a network of similar independent churches.

2. Leadership in the church is exercised by a lay Leadership Team which functions as follows:

4 Elders, each appointed for a term of 5 years, are primarily responsible for the spiritual welfare of the church; this includes

•  Doctrinal policy
•  Pastoral oversight
•  Teaching strategy

One of the Elders is employed full-time by the church; his duties include regular preaching and teaching, and a discipling/pastoral ministry to all connected with the church.

5 Deacons, each appointed for a term of 3 years, are responsible for other aspects of church life:

Outreach & Mission, Prayer and Worship, Premises, Youth and Children, and Finance.

3. The finances of the church are met by contributions from members and friends, which are collected at Sunday services, or given directly to the church Treasurer. Gifts for the work of the Lord are regularly sent to organisations and individuals working abroad and in the UK .

4. Communion (Breaking of Bread) is held every Sunday. All who love the Lord Jesus and acknowledge Him as Lord are welcome to participate.

5. The church practises baptism by immersion for individuals on personal confession of faith in Jesus Christ. It practises dedication or thanksgiving for infants, on the faith of the parents, but not christening or infant baptism.

6. The church is licensed for conducting marriages and funerals. We are happy to arrange for the sick to be visited and prayed over for healing, with anointing of oil, if desired.

7. We believe that the Bible teaches that a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ should become a member of a local church, and participate in its activities to the extent that circumstances permit.

A paper entitled “Baptism, Breaking of Bread, and Membership” is available, giving brief guidelines to those who may be interested – please ask for one.

8. The focus of our church life beyond Sunday services is on our Cell and House groups. Small groups of members and associates meet regularly at differing times on various weekdays to:

Worship
Build community
Study the Bible and apply it to daily living
Encourage and facilitate contact with ‘not-yet' Christians

These groups are open to anyone to attend and participate, and are a cornerstone of our 5 year ‘Growth and Opportunity ' Plan, a copy of which is available.

9. Church activities are organised with a view to meeting the needs of people in the area and friends, as well as church members. Each activity is led by a church member appointed by the Elders, and others with relevant ability and interest are encouraged to assist.

Details are published in the weekly ‘What's On'.

10. For further information please speak to one of the Elders or leave your name and address and we will keep you advised of our activities.

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