What started as open-air services in 1873 is now Amott Road Baptist Church. The church has a fascinating history. It shows how a small group of people can create something lasting.
Amott Road Baptist Church began outside Peckham Park’s gates. Rev W A Wills led these early services. People met in homes. Then they gathered in Norfolk Street Baptist Chapel. This chapel is now McDermott Road. Later they used the Constitutional Hall in East Dulwich Grove.
In 1896, the church acquired farmland on Amott Road. A corrugated iron chapel and a small hall were erected that year. Five years later, the church expanded. It bought the adjoining land. The total cost for land, buildings, and expenses was £1,251.16.2d.
A new church building replaced the small hall in 1958. The original tin chapel faced many challenges. Heavy snow in 1963 damaged it severely. Time also took its toll.
The Pastor and Deacons worried about the chapel’s condition. Young people used it every evening. Sunday School also took place there. It was hard to control youthful enthusiasm. The church leaders wondered how much more the tin chapel could endure.
Finally, in 1968, the current youth halls replaced the tin chapel. Amott Road Baptist Church is committed to its community. It works for peace and justice. The church seeks the flourishing of its neighborhood and city.
Amott Road Baptist Church is a friendly place. It welcomes everyone. Each person is valued. There is room for questions and curiosity. The church values multiple voices. People can contribute during worship. They can also contribute during prayer and decision-making.
The church shares God’s love. It understands its neighborhood. It serves the local community. Amott Road Baptist Church is part of several organizations. These include Citizens UK and Southwark Citizens. It also belongs to the London Baptist Association. Furthermore, it is part of the Baptist Union of Great Britain. Finally, it is part of the Anabaptist Mennonite Network.
Today, Amott Road Baptist Church continues its mission. It lives, demonstrates, and proclaims Jesus Christ’s message. It is a diverse group. People of different nationalities and backgrounds learn together. They learn how to follow Jesus. Every Sunday morning the church meets at 10 am for coffee and fellowship. They meet in the church building on Amott Road. The fourth Sunday is different. They engage in activities around the neighborhood. Amott Road Baptist Church is more than just a building. It is a community. It is a place of faith. It is a beacon of hope.