Cheadle Hulme United Reformed Church
Summary
Cheadle Hulme United Reformed Church has been ‘operating’ for over 150 years with a foundation stone being laid in 1869. Having survived being burnt down and the growth around it of ‘civilisation’ as we now know it the church has turned to Social Enterprise as a vehicle for being relevant and demonstrating Christian witness at the centre of the community.
Challenges
The challenge for all churches is to be relevant in a modern world with many colours, creeds and modern distractions filling the lives of a modern society. The united kingdom, despite being a Christian country, has seen church attendances drop across the board. Many activities that churches historically provided such as education, care for the elderly and youth activities are now carried ‘formally’ by the state the council, the national health service and many clubs and societies that may not have ‘Christ’ as the prime focus of why they exist.
So what role could and can a church play?
The Process
Elders at Cheadle Hulme URC included a Director of Bubble. Through discussion and practical working it was decided to actively engage with ‘experts’ in many areas who could provide their services on the physical platform of the church building. The team sort out ‘experts’ in childcare, ‘experts’ in running dance classes, ‘experts’ in caring for people with various health conditions.
The congregation has invested in the fabric of the church facilities to provide an environment in which these organisations can thrive.
The Outcomes
The church is used by a professional pre-school, multiple dance groups, multiple choirs, multiple specialist health groups and many members of the public. The activity has extended the ‘church community’ well beyond the walls of the Sunday service and provided a platform on which many can become active and live their lives more fully.
Church Services… 10.30 am on a Sunday
1st, 3rd(5th) SUNDAYS of the month… The worship is for ALL AGE groups, with worksheets or drawing / reading for children.
2nd SUNDAY of the month… A shorter, less formal CHILD friendly service.
4th SUNDAY of the month… The service includes COMMUNION with Gluten free bread and alcohol-free grape juice(water also available). The United Reformed Church views inclusivity as important and even young children are encouraged to participate;
United Reformed Church, 65 Swann Lane, Cheadle Hulme, Stockport SK8 7HU
+44 (0)161 485 4132 church office for messages (open Wednesday am)
Click here for Cheadle Hulme United Reformed Church official website
Funerals, weddings and marriages by arranagement
Please note Bubble Enterprises does not operate the services described on this web page.
Partners and Clients
