Why did a solitary cyclist’s journey lead to the creation of Chessington Methodist Church? Our story begins in 1948. A local man was cycling from Chessington to Surbiton Hill Methodist Church. He noticed a plot of land on the corner of Moor Lane and Church Lane. This sparked a vision. A vision of a local Methodist presence in Chessington. Soon after, a simple nissen hut, adorned with a brick frontage, became Chessington Methodist Church’s first home. This humble beginning marked the start of a vibrant community. Just a few years later, in 1952, a permanent structure was erected. This building now serves as the church’s Parlour, Kitchen, and Small Hall. Chessington Methodist Church continued to grow. By 1959, a new main church building was completed, a testament to the burgeoning congregation. The original nissen hut was then demolished in 1963, making way for the Large Hall and its stage. In 1996, a new wing was added, dedicated to John Penfold. This wing provided a coffee bar, more restrooms, meeting rooms, and an office. Most recently, in 2014, Chessington Methodist Church underwent a significant refurbishment. The dias was enlarged and raised. The sound, projection, and lighting systems were upgraded. New carpeting was installed. A stunning, commissioned backlit glass cross now graces the sanctuary. Chessington Methodist Church stands as a beacon of faith and community. It is a testament to the vision of that lone cyclist over 70 years ago.
Southfields Methodist Church
Curiosity stirred within the heart of Southfields as a new chapter began. Southfields Methodist Church held its first public service