“Whoever you are wherever you are on life’s journey you are welcome here.” Bromley United Reformed Church extends this invitation to all. It stands as a Christian community right here in the heart of Bromley.
Bromley United Reformed Church is more than just a building. It is a vibrant community. This church seeks to be a place where everyone can feel at home. God invites all to grow together loving one another.
The origins of Bromley United Reformed Church trace back to the evangelical revival. This revival followed John Wesley’s preaching across the country. In 1788 the Bethel Chapel was started. It later became Bromley Congregational Church. In 1972 it evolved into Bromley United Reformed Church.
This church has a rich history. It reflects a commitment to adapting and growing. The current modern building provides wonderful resources. It supports the church’s ministry. It is bright large and very adaptable. Bromley United Reformed Church is a busy hub at the heart of town. Over a thousand people visit every week.
In the 1920s Bromley experienced rapid population growth. Extensive housing developments were undertaken. Bromley Congregational Church responded by building Emmanuel Church in West Wickham. It funded not only the building but also the minister’s salary for the first year.
Bromley United Reformed Church actively collaborates with other churches. With four other town center churches it helped form a Central Bromley Ecumenical Parish in 1972. It was actively involved in creating Churches Together in Central Bromley. This superseded the Ecumenical Parish.
Bromley United Reformed Church is one of fifteen churches in CTiCB. They organize many joint events throughout the year. These include Lent Meetings. They also include the Good Friday March of Witness in the High Street. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is another such event. Bromley United Reformed Church also belongs to a smaller ecumenical group. This group includes Bromley Methodist Church and Bromley Parish Church. They meet occasionally for joint services. They share magazine letters. They explore ways to support each other.
The United Reformed Church itself formed in 1972. It was the result of a union. The Presbyterian Church of England and the Congregational Church in England and Wales joined together. Later the Re-formed Association of Churches of Christ in 1981 and the Congregational Union of Scotland in 2000 also joined.
Bromley United Reformed Church seeks to work with Christians of all traditions. It is committed to theological and cultural diversity. Like the national URC it values the gifts of members from across the world. It seeks to hold together a wide variety of theological understandings. Valuing different insights helps the church understand the wonder of God.
The mission of Bromley United Reformed Church is rooted in faith. It proclaims Jesus as Lord. From this faith the church shares God’s love. It does so through actions and words.
Remember Bromley United Reformed Church welcomes all. It strives to be a community that embraces diversity. It promotes love and understanding. It is a place where faith and action come together to make a difference in the world.