A WOKINGHAM church is undertaking innovative changes to better serve its community.
Shinfield Baptist Church is looking to renovate its building to accommodate a growing congregation and optimise its provision to the village.
It has also announced a change of name to Shinfield Community Church.
Pastor Nathan Hunt explained: “We’re exploring a building which better serves our community with flexible floor space, a cafe for our Rainbow Tots and coffee mornings.
“We’d love as part of that to provide some accommodation for people who are struggling in some way, whether they’re homeless or refugee families.”
The works will allow the church to give the building a new lease of life, as Revd Hunt describes the growing number of repairs as ‘unsustainable’.
In the meantime, Sunday morning services will take place at Alder Grove School, a stone’s throw away from its home on Hollow Lane.
Over time, Revd Hunt has noticed the demographic of the church does not necessarily reflect that of the village.
In an attempt to represent, evolve and engage with the community, Shinfield Baptist is looking to enhance its youth provision, while upholding its commitment to its older members.
“The move to Alder Grove is just as much about having room for the children and the creche, as it is about the hall,” Revd Hunt explained.
The church boasts various groups for children of all ages, and having classrooms to break off into has helped leaders deliver effective sessions.
Not only has the size of the congregation grown, but also its diversity.
Over 20 flags are on display in the church’s main hall, showcasing the range of nationalities represented by its membership.
The church’s current site will continue to host its community-facing initiatives such as SHARE Shinfield, Rainbow Tots and afternoon tea.
With the village’s residents at the heart of its activity, the church was keen to include a community element to its name.
Earlier this year, Wokingham Today spoke to Ukrainian refugees who were staying with several families who attend the church.
Associate pastor, Sallyann Hunt, said many had settled well, securing jobs.
With many leaving loved ones and the situation improving in certain parts of the country, she explained that some had since returned home.
