During the Second World War Selsdon Baptist Church was a lifeline. It wasn’t the grand building you see today. The original church a small hall stood further up the hill. But down below nestled a vital bomb shelter.
Selsdon Baptist Church wasn’t just a place of worship. It was a community hub. The church building on Addington Road housed a wartime children’s welfare centre. Pre-school children received free cod liver oil and orange juice. They also got tins of National Dried Milk. Despite rationing these children were well-fed. It was a stark contrast to today’s reliance on junk food.
Imagine the scene. The air raid siren wails. Shoppers dash for the nearest shelter. This wasn’t just any shelter. It was located where the new church now stands. Beneath the ground lay safety. There was another shelter near Addington Road and Old Farleigh Road. Both were close to public conveniences. You were never caught out in Selsdon during the war.
Even after the war Selsdon Baptist Church continued to serve the community. The Life Boys a youth group met there. One boy Cyril Fisher even recruited a friend. The Life Boys however were not as exciting as the Wolf Cubs. Apparently marching around the hall wasn’t for everyone.
Today Selsdon Baptist Church remains a beacon. It’s a friendly group of people who love God. They welcome visitors. You can join them on Sundays at 1030 am in person or online. The church advances Christian faith and undertakes charitable works. It’s a testament to faith community and resilience. This building on Addington Road is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a living story etched in the heart of Selsdon.