“Well-built and brightly coloured,” is what they say about the Free Church. It certainly stands out. Here at the Free Church on Sansad Marg, you will find a peaceful moment.
The Free Church offers spiritual solace to everyone. People of any faith can sit quietly here. They can reflect on their lives. Delhi has many churches. This one is among the most picturesque. The Free Church inspires togetherness in all who visit.
Notice the impressive neoclassical style. The building reminds us of the British Raj. The Free Church was built in 1927. The red and white colors are distinctive. Inside the Free Church, the seating is wide and open. The worship area is at the front.
The Free Church holds services every morning and evening. In the summer, English services are at 9 AM and 6 PM. Hindi service is at 11 AM. In winter, English services are at 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM. Hindi service is at 11:30 AM.
The Free Church is known for its social activities. They hold a garden fete every year. A choral festival brings joyous music. The Free Church takes pride in its Sunday school. Children learn and grow here. The church ministers to those with hearing and speech impairments.
Mission work is important to the Free Church. They translate the Bible into Indian languages. The church provides aid for exploited children.
In 1955, the Free Church on Parliament Street started a new church in South Delhi. Rev. Ron F Tucker led this effort. Members who lived far away could barely attend services. He wanted to meet the needs of those members. That new church became Green Park Free Church.
The Free Church encourages a spirit of togetherness. They welcome all to worship and share in social events.
However, one visitor’s experience was mixed. They arrived on a Sunday morning. It was the Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost. The theme was the family. The visitor noted the fans were noisy. They found the formal worship lacking joy. No one welcomed them. They felt quite alone.
The sermon focused on husbands and wives. It spoke of God’s judgment. The visitor felt it lacked grace. They were saddened by the restricted view of God. Yet, they remembered the delightful singing by young people. Despite the mixed experience, the Free Church continues its mission.
As you leave the Free Church, consider its central location. It is next to Jantar Mantar. You can easily visit other attractions in Lutyens Delhi. Parliament House is nearby. Remember the Free Church’s message of togetherness. Carry that peace with you.