We are stronger together

The first Baptist Small Church Hubs have taken place in the last six months. The idea of a ‘Hub’ is to be a centre for smaller churches to meet for training, resourcing, celebrations and discussion, Small Church Enabler Hilary Taylor explains.

Across Baptists Together there are approximately 1000 smaller churches (with less than 40 members) and many are doing amazing things to make Jesus known in their community.

However, some smaller churches would love to reach out but are needing encouragement, especially after Covid. That’s where Small Church Hubs can help.

The first two Hubs launched last autumn at King’s Church, Stotfold, Bedfordshire (CBA) and Eastern Avenue Baptist Church, Chadwell Heath, Essex (LB). A further three were set up in early 2023 at Totteridge Baptist Church, High Wycombe (CBA), Waltham Abbey Baptist Church (LB) and Blaby Baptist Church (EMBA).

The idea of a ‘Hub’ is to:

Be a centre for smaller churches to meet for training, resourcing, celebrations and discussion, held in a building (of a small or large church) which has a car park (and/or is near a station) and good facilities which are open-hearted and welcoming.
Meet, talk, pray, listen and dream about how God wants his church to reach out to those who are lost.
Work together on projects and to share expertise - we are stronger together.
Ask ‘What is in your hand? Who have you got? How are they gifted? What are they passionate about?’

We need to be having these conversations and embracing adventure in this new and uncertain post-Covid world.

Hubs can be anywhere in the country, to act as a centre for the local churches who can reach the hub building in about 30-45 minutes.

“The first hubs have been really appreciated”, says Hilary, “with everyone keen to meet again.” They have included a gifting workshop based on the five-fold ministry in Ephesians 4.

Here are some comments from the attendees:

Good to begin to get to know others on the same wavelength with a similar heart – thank you.
Great event and initiative
Excellent time together for teaching and nourishment
Our sincere thanks to the organisers of this event
Great to make a start as a hub
Thought-provoking and encouraging