A metaphorical bridge between congregations stands before us. This is Harringay United Church. It is a place with a rich history. Harringay United Church started as a Sunday school in 1891. The school met in Falkland Hall. Falkland Hall was upstairs behind a shop. The shop was at the south corner of Falkland Road and Green Lanes.
In 1894 land was purchased. It was at the junction of Allison Road and Green Lanes. An iron building was opened there. This marked a significant step for the growing congregation.
A permanent church replaced the iron building in 1902. In 1912 a new hall and schoolrooms were added. These were built as a three-story block on Allison Road. The church was made of red brick. It featured stone dressings and a Gothic style.
Major internal reconstruction occurred in 1970. This renovation reduced the seating capacity. It went from about 650 to 220. In 1972 the church retained all three halls. These were collectively known as Allison Hall. However the bottom hall had been leased to the government since 1947.
A significant union took place in 1969. Harringay Congregational Church united with Hornsey Church of Christ. Together they became Harringay United Church. The Hornsey premises on Wightman Road were sold. It became The Gospel Centre a Pentecostal church.
In 1982 Harringay United Church affiliated with two important organizations. These were the London Baptist Association and the Baptist Union of Great Britain. This broadened the church’s connections.
The church underwent a name change in 2007. It was renamed Harringay United Church-Baptist. This followed a decision and agreement. The Congregational Trustees also agreed. In August 2009 it was registered as a full charity.
Harringay United Church is more than just a building. It is a fellowship of believers. They share the Good News through learning and listening. They also pray and work together. The church actively reaches out to its communities. It is a place to believe belong and become.
The church believes in God as the creator. They see him as sustainer of the universe. God exists in the community of Father Son and Holy Spirit. They believe in Jesus Christ God’s son. He pre-existed before creation. Jesus lived a sinless life and died for our sins. He was raised on the third day.
The church believes in the Holy Spirit. They see the Spirit as the third person of God. Christ gave the Spirit to His Church. The Spirit lives in every believer at conversion.
The Bible is central to their faith. It is the inspired Word of God. It was written over centuries by different writers. They were inspired by God. The Bible is the standard for Christian living. Harringay United Church stands as a testament to faith unity and community. Its history reflects a journey of growth adaptation and service.