Dreams of a church without borders. That’s what sparked the International Presbyterian Church’s journey. Founded by Francis Schaeffer, this church began as a missionary outreach. It was under the Reformed Presbyterian Church in the United States.
Schaeffer and his wife, pioneers of faith, first established L’Abri. L’Abri meant “the Shelter”. It became a haven for questioning minds. From this ministry, the International Presbyterian Church was born in 1954. Schaeffer envisioned a church transcending national limits.
The International Presbyterian Church found its roots in Ealing in 1969. It grew alongside L’Abri. Ranald Macaulay, Schaeffer’s son-in-law, played a key role. He led the Ealing congregation. The church initially gathered in a living room on Cleveland Road.
By 1979, the International Presbyterian Church had grown. It acquired a chapel from nuns of the former St Helena’s Home. This chapel later received Grade 2 listed status. The church expanded further. In 2018, it moved into a redeveloped building on the same site.
Today, the International Presbyterian Church stands as a testament to its international identity. Its congregation comprises over 35 nationalities. The International Presbyterian Church is part of a wider network. It includes English and Korean-speaking presbyteries in the UK. Worldwide, it connects with churches in Korea and Europe.
The International Presbyterian Church maintains a Reformed evangelical identity. It emphasizes community and hospitality. Despite challenges like a transient community, the church perseveres. The International Presbyterian Church emphasizes planting new congregations.
IPC Ealing is a vibrant church. It hosts various activities. These include parent and toddler groups, lunchtime services, and language classes. They also have children and youth programs, house-groups, and Bible studies. Sunday School is available for all ages. Prayer gatherings and worship services enrich church life.
The International Presbyterian Church has grown. In recent years, dissatisfied evangelical groups from the Church of Scotland have joined the church. Former ministers, elders and members created 3 new Scottish congregations. These congregations emerged from existing Church of Scotland congregations. The IPC has four presbyteries. These are the British Presbytery, a European Proto-Presbytery, Korean Presbytery and a South-Korean Proto-Presbytery.
The International Presbyterian Church remains committed to its mission. It strives to share God’s love. It seeks to equip Christians. The church aspires to serve as a beacon in the community. It proclaims the gospel to all.