“An affection for God.” That’s what you’ll find within the walls of Southside Free Baptist Church. It is a sentiment that has defined this church since its humble beginnings.
Southside Free Baptist Church started its journey in Loanhead in July 2010. For several years the congregation gathered at the Miner’s Community Centre. These meetings continued until Covid forced a shutdown.
But the story does not end there. God provided the finances to purchase the Pentland Inn. This purchase happened on February 23 2023. It became a permanent church home.
The congregation of Southside Free Baptist Church felt thankful. They obtained a church property in their home village. They invite everyone to come and see what God is doing there.
Southside Free Baptist Church stands as an Independent Baptist Church. Traditional music fills the air. The church uses the King James Version of the Bible. Southside Free Baptist Church is growing. God is establishing them in their faith.
However the church stirred controversy in Midlothian. The Free Baptist Church distributed leaflets. These leaflets promoted homophobic and anti-abortion views. The leaflets called homosexuality a sexual perversion. They referred to transgender people as an abomination.
The leaflets claimed those who perform abortions should be punished. They also stated that physical discipline of children is permissible. This is illegal in Scotland.
Pastor Benjamin Shore led the church. He moved to Scotland from the USA with his family in 2010. He printed 10000 leaflets and distributed them around Midlothian.
The SNP MP Owen Thompson denounced the views. He advised people to ignore the leaflets. He encouraged them to put the leaflets straight into their recycling bins.
The Scottish Charity Regulator was made aware of the material. They considered them in line with their published policies. Religious groups can share such views. They can do so as long as they do not stir up hatred. This aligns with the Hate Crime and Public Order Act.
Despite the controversy Southside Free Baptist Church continues. It is a regular participant at the Loanhead Children’s Gala Day.
The Baptist World Mission describes Scotland as very humanistic. They describe it as atheistic, evolutional and decidedly not Christian. They feel it is in desperate need of a fresh touch from God.
Southside Free Baptist Church offers a traditional church experience. The church expresses a grateful appreciation for God’s Word. You can find a friendly congregation there. Heartfelt worship fills the space. Joyful hymn singing is accompanied by instruments. Bible preaching is loving, truthful and without apology.
The church maintains a respect for the old paths. It respects the King James translation of the Bible. They extend an invitation. They want you to witness the work of God at Southside Free Baptist Church.