Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Welcome to Hoole Baptist Church in Chester
Hoole Baptist Church, established in 1952, has served the Chester community for over seven decades. Our mission is to bring healing, wholeness, and freedom to broken lives and communities by following Jesus' teachings and empowering individuals to make a difference. We prioritise creating a welcoming environment where people can explore faith, develop spiritually, and engage in meaningful community outreach. Our history dates back to 1883 when we began as a mission in Hoole, evolving into an independent church with a strong focus on discipleship and community impact. We offer diverse worship opportunities, including traditional Sunday gatherings, family-friendly Messy Church, and evening Encounter services.Our Missional Communities provide smaller group settings for deeper connection and spiritual growth. The Hoole Lighthouse Centre serves as our community hub, hosting various activities that extend our ministry beyond Sunday worship. We maintain strong partnerships locally, nationally, and globally to amplify our impact. Our values emphasize being a Jesus-centred, Spirit-filled family that practices the way of Jesus while engaging in prophetic ministry. We welcome newcomers with open arms and provide resources to help individuals understand our church's vision and values.
Services
Sunday Gatherings
Messy Church
Encounter Services
Missional Communities
Community Hub
Children's Programs
Youth Groups
Well-being Cafe
Discipleship Training
Local Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1952
Highlights and features
- Established presence in Chester since 1883 with deep community roots
- Inclusive, family-friendly environment welcoming all ages and backgrounds
- Comprehensive discipleship programs for spiritual growth at every life stage
- Active community outreach through the Hoole Lighthouse Centre initiatives
- Diverse worship options catering to different preferences and generations
Services
Sunday Gatherings
Our main worship events occur on 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays at 10:30 am. These gatherings feature contemporary worship, biblical teaching, and community connection. The services include children's activities and are held at Hoole Primary School during September to July.
Messy Church
A creative, family-friendly worship experience held on 2nd Sundays at 10:30 am. Combines hands-on activities, storytelling, and communal meals. Designed for all ages with special provisions for children while maintaining meaningful worship for adults.
Missional Communities
Intimate group meetings held on 4th Sundays. Focus on deeper spiritual connection, prayer, and practical application of Christian teachings. Provides opportunities for personal growth and community building through shared experiences and discussions.
Community Hub
Operated through the Hoole Lighthouse Centre, this initiative offers various community programs including the Crossroads Community Hub and Renew 61 Well-being Cafe. Provides accessible support services and social opportunities for local residents.
Youth Programs
Age-specific groups including Trackers (Years 3-6), Tuesday Wildfire (Years 7-9), and Wednesday Wildfire (Years 10-13). Combines fun activities with spiritual development, creating safe spaces for young people to explore faith and build friendships.
People
Andy Glover
Pastor
Serving as Pastor since 1994, Andy leads with a vision for community transformation. He focuses on developing discipleship culture and expanding the church's outreach initiatives.
Sue Glover
Pastor's Wife
Actively involved in church ministries, Sue supports the pastoral team and contributes to community engagement efforts. She plays a key role in women's and family programs.
Rachel Sims
Church Leader
Rachel contributes to leadership and discipleship development. She helps coordinate community outreach programs and supports the church's missional initiatives.
Andrew Elphinston
Church Leader
Andrew serves in leadership, focusing on spiritual development and practical ministry training. He contributes to Sunday gatherings and small group programs.
Paul Stevens
Church Leader
Paul supports church operations and community engagement. He helps implement discipleship programs and coordinates outreach activities through the Hoole Lighthouse Centre.
Questions
What services does HBC offer for families?
We provide Messy Church for all ages, Trackers for Years 3-6, and Wildfire youth groups for older children. Our Sunday gatherings include children's activities.
How can I get involved in the community?
Join our Crossroads Community Hub, Renew 61 Well-being Cafe, or Missional Communities. These initiatives offer various ways to connect and serve locally.
Where are your Sunday services held?
Main gatherings occur at Hoole Primary School on 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays. Encounter services take place at the Hoole Lighthouse Centre on 2nd Sundays.
What is the church's approach to discipleship?
We focus on creating a discipleship culture through small groups, training programs, and practical ministry opportunities that help people follow Jesus in daily life.
How does the church support newcomers?
We provide a welcoming environment with clear information, friendly members, and resources explaining our vision, mission, and values for those exploring faith.
What community facilities are available?
The Hoole Lighthouse Centre offers meeting spaces, community programs, and the Crossroads Hub, serving as our base for weekly activities and outreach initiatives.
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