Dagenham is on the eastern edge of London and Becontree Avenue Baptist Church is the smallest of the four Baptist churches in Dagenham. The church at Becontree Avenue has been led for the past twelve years by Rev Sue Millar and during that time there has been a lot of change.
Covid stopped many of the activities but some of these are now returning. The demographics of those who live in Dagenham have also changed too. It is a friendly and very diverse place but much of the population is transient, moving to the area and then out again a few years later. That presents challenges of continuity and commitment with a settled core of people and those who are part of the church for a limited time.
However the church is growing with new members joining and the Sunday School has just started up again led by new people who look after the growing number of children.
In addition to the regular weekly programme the church holds various seasonal events to engage with the local community: Pancake Day, a BBQ, the church anniversary, a harvest lunch and a sausage, spuds and sparklers event for Guy Fawkes. These are vey effective and simple events to organize.
An ongoing challenge is people resources. Many members have busy jobs and family commitments so are time-poor. Lots of the responsibilities fall on the same few people, and many of the regulars are getting older. The church now holds church meetings instead of deacons meetings, so while the meetings might be a bit longer everyone is involved in the decision making process and running the church.
Please pray:
3rd November 2024
27th October 2024
20th October 2024