Jubilee Community Church

In 1983, a seed of faith was planted in Cape Town. From humble beginnings in a Scout hall, Jubilee Community Church emerged. The church, initially known as Vineyard Fellowship, was formed by members of Wynberg Baptist Church. They sought a New Testament perspective on church, prioritizing relationships and vibrant worship. Jubilee Community Church quickly outgrew the Scout hall and moved to Aliwal Road Primary School hall in Wynberg. The church adopted a unique structure: cell-congregation-celebration. Members participated in mid-week cell groups, attended Sunday morning congregations, and united for Sunday evening celebrations at Timour Hall Primary School. Later, the celebrations moved to the Waverley complex in Mowbray. Jubilee Community Church’s commitment to social action was evident during the turbulent 1980s. The church actively worked towards a non-racial fellowship. They participated in projects in Cape Town’s informal settlements. They built relationships with residents of Khayelitsha. This led to the establishment of Uzukho Lwakhe church. The church’s involvement in Tambo Square informal settlement near Gugulethu resulted in the creation of Khanyisa church. In 1990, Simon Pettit became the lead elder, strengthening the church’s relationship with the Newfrontiers family of churches. A significant shift occurred in 1991. Jubilee Community Church sold its Wynberg property and bought a complex in Crawford. This move demonstrated their commitment to the Cape Flats communities. The church adopted its current name, Jubilee Community Church. The name symbolizes God’s favor, liberation, and good news for the poor. The search for a larger space led Jubilee Community Church to the former Italtile warehouse in Observatory in 2000. This became the Jubilee Centre. It provided space for various activities, including Sunday services, children’s ministries, social projects, offices, and a health centre. Observatory’s diverse and accessible location proved ideal for the church’s diverse congregation. In 2004, Stephen van Rhyn took over leadership, and tragically, Simon Pettit passed away in 2005. Jubilee Community Church has continued to grow. They have partnered with other churches, including Newfrontiers and Advance, to spread the Gospel. The church has played a vital role in planting several other churches, including The Bay Community Church, The Rock Church, and New Nation Church. Jubilee Community Church’s journey reflects a commitment to faith, community, and social action in Cape Town.