How about a church that welcomes everyone regardless of background? That is Church of the Cross. It stands here in London as a testament to community and faith.
Church of the Cross was built in the early 1970s. It is in the heart of the South Thamesmead Estate. The church is much used by the local community. Many activities occur here throughout the week.
Church of the Cross is part of a local ecumenical partnership or LEP. It works closely with the Anglican Methodist and URC churches. The church’s style and worship is broadly evangelical. It is informal and accessible to all.
The leader of Church of the Cross is Jonathan Macy. He is an ordained Anglican minister. However the church retains aspects of its original ecumenical vision. It is difficult to categorize as Anglican Methodist or URC. Everyone is welcome to pray worship and listen to God’s word. Meet the Living and life-changing God here. Meet God’s people at Church of the Cross.
Church of the Cross is part of the wider Thamesmead Team. This team includes St Paul’s and William Temple. It is a team with a strong ecumenical ethos.
The Thamesmead parish stretches from Woolwich Arsenal to Abbey Wood. It has three congregations within it. Church of the Cross is at the Abbey Wood end of the parish. Thamesmead is the largest parish in Southwark Diocese. It is the third largest in the country. The population is about 50000. There are three churches. There are sixteen primary schools. Three secondary schools and six residential care homes are here. Three prisons and a football club are located in Thamesmead.
St Paul’s is on Bentham Road in Thamesmead. The lead minister is Team Rector Revd Patrick Eggleston. St Paul’s is more in the modern Catholic tradition. The Sunday service begins at 9.45am. There are children’s groups available. There is a quieter midweek communion service on Tuesdays at 10am.
William Temple is on Eynsham Drive. Currently they have no vicar. As with St Paul’s the church tradition is more modern Catholic. Sunday services are at 10.30am. There is a children’s group. A quieter midweek communion service is on Thursdays at 10.30am.
Church of the Cross stands as a symbol of unity. It welcomes all seeking spiritual guidance. Remember this place of community as you continue your journey. May its message of inclusivity stay with you.