Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Welcome to Moortown Baptist Church in Leeds
Moortown Baptist Church has served the Leeds community since 1957, rooted in the belief that personal relationships with God through Jesus Christ transform lives. Our Sunday worship services, held at 11am and streamed online, form the heart of our activities, supported by a diverse team of volunteers and three dedicated staff members. We actively engage in local projects, from hosting community events to operating a free caf and food pantry, reflecting our commitment to practical Christian service. Our leadership team, comprising Minister Shelley Dring and eight elected Deacons, guides this mission with transparency and accountability. With over 150 members spanning all ages and backgrounds, we embody a welcoming, inclusive faith community that values both spiritual growth and social responsibility.Our historic building at 204 King Lane serves as a hub for worship, learning, and community support, embodying our founding principles of grace and truth. Through initiatives like the Beacon Caf and partnerships with local organisations, we strive to make a tangible difference in LS17 and surrounding areas. Regular updates via our newsletter and YouTube channel keep members and visitors informed about our evolving programmes and outreach efforts. This enduring commitment to service and fellowship continues to shape our identity as a church that exists 'in and of its community'.
Services
Sunday Worship Services
Beacon Caf
Community Outreach
Youth Groups
Volunteer Opportunities
Details
- Year established: 1955
Highlights and features
- We have over 65 years of experience serving the Leeds community
- Our team includes professionally trained ministry and administrative staff
- We operate a free community caf and food pantry for local residents
- Our volunteer-led model ensures community representation in all activities
- We maintain historic church premises while embracing modern outreach methods
Associations and certifications
- Charity Commission for England and Wales
Services
Sunday Worship Services
Our weekly Sunday services at 11am combine traditional worship with contemporary relevance, featuring sermons, music, and community updates. Broadcast live on YouTube, they're accessible to both in-person attendees and online participants. The services typically last just over an hour, balancing spiritual nourishment with practical time management for modern lifestyles.
Beacon Caf
Operating Mondays 10am-12pm, this warm space offers free tea, coffee, and cakes to local residents. Adjacent 'Lord's Pantry' provides essential groceries to those in need. Both initiatives aim to reduce social isolation while addressing practical needs in a welcoming environment that reflects our Christian values.
Community Outreach
We actively engage in diverse community initiatives, partnering with local organisations for gardening projects, police forums, and charity appeals. Our venue hosts theatre productions, polling stations, and conferences, demonstrating our commitment to being 'in and of' the LS17 community through practical support and collaboration.
Youth Groups
Our youth programmes cater to various age groups, providing safe spaces for learning and spiritual development. Activities include Sunday school, youth clubs, and special events designed to engage younger generations in Christian values while supporting their personal growth and community involvement.
Volunteer Opportunities
We offer diverse volunteering roles for those wishing to contribute to community service through a Christian framework. Opportunities range from caf staffing to event organisation, welcoming participants from teens to seniors in our intergenerational approach to community building.
People
Shelley Dring
Minister
Shelley Dring is our full-time Minister, leading Sunday services and community outreach initiatives in Leeds. With professional training and extensive experience, she guides our spiritual and social programmes.
Rachel Beedle
Senior's Worker
Rachel Beedle serves as our part-time Senior's Worker, coordinating activities and support for older community members. Her role focuses on connecting with and assisting the elderly population in LS17.
Lesley Murphy
Administrator
Lesley Murphy is our efficient part-time Administrator, managing day-to-day operations and ensuring smooth communication between the church and local community partners.
Questions
What are your Sunday service times?
Our main Sunday service starts at 11am and lasts just over an hour. Services are also available via live stream on our YouTube channel.
Do you offer community support programmes?
Yes, we operate the Beacon Café (Mondays 10am-12pm) with free refreshments and 'The Lord's Pantry' food bank. We also participate in various local projects.
How can I get involved with the church?
You can join our Sunday services, volunteer for community projects, or participate in youth groups. Contact details are available on our website.
Is the church accessible for visitors?
Our premises at 204 King Lane, Leeds LS17 6AA are easily accessible. A defibrillator is available, and we provide wheelchair access to main areas.
What Christian denomination are you affiliated with?
We are an independent Baptist church following traditional Baptist principles while maintaining an inclusive approach to community service and worship.
