Wasn’t it 1972 when a small group first gathered? Right here before us stands Goodwood Baptist Church a testament to faith and community. It all began with a few believers meeting in the area. They started a bilingual Sunday school. Soon they formed a fellowship. They adopted their constitution in 1977. It was unusual for South African Baptists at the time. Their constitution referenced Elders. It also affirmed their allegiance to the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith. For years they met in a simple building on Anderson Street. Then God provided. They purchased the AGS church building on Milton Road. This is where they continue their worship to this day.
Goodwood Baptist Church isn’t just a building. It is a living community. It’s a place where God’s word is paramount. Their public worship is simple. It focuses on preparing God’s people to receive His word. They strive to reach all age groups. Pastors and the congregation believe the Old and New Testaments are God’s inspired word. They worship the triune God Father Son and Holy Spirit. They believe salvation comes from God’s free grace. These are the core beliefs. These beliefs are detailed further in the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith. This confession is their comprehensive statement of faith.
The church offers much more than Sunday services. They have prayer meetings. There’s even a hiking group. Junior Youth and Moms & Tots groups exist. They also have a sound ministry. Christianity Explored is offered. There is a book table and a library. Women’s ministries and young adult groups flourish. The Men’s Fellowship TMF is active. The church welcomes all. They offer a warm and inclusive environment. They help their community.
The history of Goodwood Baptist Church is a story of growth. It’s a story of God’s provision. It’s a story of faithful service. Three pastors served before Martin Drysdale. He joined in 2014. Peter Dewberry served from 1972 to 1982. Bernard Cartledge followed from 1982 to 1998. Roland Eskinazi served from 1998 to 2013. God blessed their ministries. They laid a solid foundation. The church continues to build upon it.
The church’s vision is clear. They seek to glorify Christ the Head of the Church. They proclaim God’s word from the Old and New Testaments. They support the global spread of God’s word. They provide instruction and fellowship. Their goal is to build up believers in their faith. They model community and service. Their work extends beyond the walls of the church. They serve their community. Goodwood Baptist Church stands as a beacon of hope. It’s a place where faith is celebrated. It’s a place where lives are changed. It’s a place where community thrives. It’s a place where God is glorified. This is Goodwood Baptist Church.