Manselton Congregational Church

In the early 1900s, Christian men and women from the surrounding area were committed to establishing an English Congregational Church in Manselton, which at the time was a new residential area. In 1906, their work and prayer came to fruition when the church was founded. The people were soon attracted to the church, which met in the local school, and by 1908 the church was able to move into its own building. The new church soon recognised a wealth of talent within the community, which was expressed throughout its history in oratorios, pantomimes and musicals, as well as providing its own church and community leaders. The church had always tried to care for its community, through tried and tested church organisations such as Guides and Brownies, youth clubs, choir, Sunday School, meetings for men and women, and mother and toddler groups. It has also run luncheon clubs, holiday play schemes and has a long tradition of involvement in ‘world development projects’. The church made (and retains) close links with centres for the disabled and the Multiple Sclerosis Society, whose building is a close neighbour. Fully integrated worship had always been important to the church, recognising the importance and value of each individual and the whole contribution by people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to the life of the church. There was a strong ecumenical dimension to the church, which became Manselton United Reformed Church in 1973.

Church Without Walls

During the late 1980s, the church had to face up to an increasingly common problem ; what should be done about old buildings where age, weather and wear had taken their toll? The old church building had become a drain on finances and was increasingly inappropriate to the spiritual and social needs of a changing community. In 1989, the decision was taken to demolish existing buildings. With fear, anticipation and expectancy, the church learned what it would mean to be a church without walls. It was not without pain that the church adapted to its new situation. Stability was offered by the local buildings who became temporary homes for the regular meetings. Leaving the old building was a liberating experience. The church learned that people were what mattered most. At this time, the church became involved in the soup run to the homeless, and in packing aid for crisis areas at home and abroad. The interest in poor areas of the world was heightened, and new work among the Manselton children began. We were able to take a look at ourselves, and the community, and re-assess our position.

Christ Well

Gradually there became an awareness that a new building would assist the work in which the church had now become involved. A development committee was formed, who worked closely with the chosen architects, in preparing a schedule of requirements. Much fund raising took place over this time, along with preparation of the accommodation. Once the building had been decided on, it was down to choosing the furnishings. Christ Well finally opened in October 1998.

From Congre to Christ Well