What if I told you that this very spot was once a nursing home? Now it is the Roskilde Baptistkirke. This transformation speaks volumes about the church’s growth and vision. Let’s uncover the story of Roskilde Baptistkirke.
The story began in 1899. A family started holding Sunday school and daily meetings in their home. Soon, the Baptists in Roskilde became a group under Frederiksberg Baptist Church in Copenhagen. It wasn’t until 1937 that Roskilde Baptist Church was officially founded.
Early on, there were plans to build a church. After a few detours, they managed to build a church on Vindingevej 10. For many years the church was the center of a rich community life for all generations. But the space eventually became too small. There was no room for expansion. So the congregation started looking for other options.
They did not have to look far. Roskilde Municipality owned a nursing home at Vindingevej 32. When it closed the congregation had the opportunity to buy it. This included the service residence which became the parsonage.
Plans were made for a new church with a church hall a café and children’s rooms. The first sod was turned in the summer of 1991. The church was consecrated on February 2 1992. It was celebrated with a large festive dedication service. The old church on Vindingevej 10 was sold. It has since been used for various commercial purposes.
In 2017 Roskilde Baptist Church celebrated its 80th anniversary. They also celebrated the church building’s 25th anniversary. By that time it was clear that the buildings were somewhat worn. The activity wing was in poor condition. A renovation was not a viable option. New construction was the only solution.
A working group was formed. Offers were obtained from architects and contractors. After overcoming several challenges the construction of a completely new activity building could finally begin in the spring of 2021. On August 14 2022 they inaugurated the building. The project also included an expansion of the church hall and café. Also a thorough renovation of the old parsonage which is now a private residence. Many volunteers made a huge effort. Without them the project could not have been completed.
Today Roskilde Baptistkirke is a vibrant community. You can experience it yourself. There is playgroup for babies and children. The church also offers a course about the Christian faith. Sermons are live-streamed every Sunday. You can find previous sermons on the church’s Facebook page. The church also hosts Familienetværket Roskilde. It is a break and an opportunity to be with others.
Roskilde Baptistkirke stands as a testament to faith community and renewal. From humble beginnings in a family home to a modern church. It embraces people of all ages. It offers various activities. Its story is one of continuous growth and service to the community.