Business Details
Welcome to Southern Counties Baptist Association
Southern Counties Baptist Association is a family-oriented congregation affiliated with the Southern Counties Baptist Association. We provide a welcoming environment for worshipers of all ages and backgrounds, with regular Sunday services attended by approximately 30 individuals. Our Sunday School caters to primary school children on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month, while midweek prayer and Bible study groups operate both in homes and online via Zoom. Rev. Dr. Martin Hobgen has served as our minister since September 2022, guiding us as we discern God's vision for our future. Our Christ-centred community is committed to living with patience, kindness, and mutual respect, actively working to build bridges of grace to diverse groups.We prioritise accessibility with ramp access, hearing loop systems, and facilities for families with young children. Our congregation includes former students familiar with university life challenges, offering support to new students exploring faith in Southampton. As a Baptist church, we uphold the UK Baptist declaration of principles while embracing diverse theological perspectives. We maintain comprehensive safeguarding policies to protect children and vulnerable adults, with trained personnel and clear reporting procedures in place.
Services
Sunday Worship
Sunday School
Midweek Bible Study
Prayer Meetings
Community Outreach
Highlights and features
- We offer a welcoming, inclusive environment for all ages and backgrounds
- Our Sunday School provides dedicated children's ministry twice monthly
- Midweek Bible study groups available both in-person and online
- Fully accessible facilities with ramp access and hearing loop systems
- Experienced minister with formal theological training and pastoral experience
Services
Sunday Worship
Our main Sunday worship service begins at 10:30am, featuring Holy Communion on the third Sunday of each month. The service includes congregational singing, scripture readings, and a sermon. Evening Prayer is held on the first Sunday of each month at 7pm, providing additional opportunities for reflection and worship.
Sunday School
We provide Sunday School for primary school-aged children on the second and fourth Sundays of each month. The program offers age-appropriate Bible teaching, activities, and opportunities for children to engage with scripture in a supportive environment while parents attend main services.
Midweek Bible Study
Bible study and prayer groups meet midweek in members' homes and online via Zoom. These smaller gatherings allow for in-depth scripture exploration, personal reflection, and mutual support through prayer. Sessions include discussion-based learning and application of biblical principles to contemporary life.
Student Support
We offer specific support for university students through our student-friendly congregation. Members with experience of higher education provide guidance on navigating academic challenges while developing faith. The church provides a welcoming space for spiritual exploration with no pressure to participate beyond personal comfort levels.
Safeguarding
Our comprehensive safeguarding policy protects children and vulnerable adults through trained personnel, clear procedures, and safe recruitment practices. We maintain designated safeguarding officers, implement behaviour codes, and follow statutory guidelines to ensure a secure environment for all church activities and community engagements.
People
Rev. Dr. Martin Hobgen
Minister
Rev. Dr. Martin Hobgen joined Southern Counties Baptist Association in September 2022. He provides spiritual leadership through preaching, pastoral care, and guiding our congregation in discerning God's vision for our future. His theological expertise and pastoral experience shape our worship and community engagement.
Questions
What are your service times?
Our main Sunday service starts at 10:30am. Evening Prayer is held on the first Sunday of each month at 7pm. Midweek Bible study groups meet in homes and online.
Are children welcome at services?
Yes, children are welcome at all services. We provide Sunday School for primary school-aged children on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month with appropriate age-specific activities.
Is the church accessible for disabled visitors?
Yes, we have ramp access, hearing loop systems, and accessible toilet facilities. Priority parking is available for those with mobility needs.
Do you offer support for university students?
Yes, we welcome students with a supportive community. Many members have university experience and understand student life challenges. We offer flexible engagement opportunities without pressure to participate.
How do you ensure child and vulnerable adult safety?
We maintain comprehensive safeguarding policies with trained personnel, including designated officers. All workers undergo proper checks, and we follow strict procedures for reporting and prevention of abuse.
