Who We Are
About us, our history, our beliefs and our leadership
About Boscombe Baptist Church
Boscombe Baptist is a Christian church based right in the middle of Boscombe, not too far from Bournemouth, in Dorset. We are a church with a passion for Jesus, and for sharing God’s good news to those in our town. This is reflected in our mission statement: “To glorify God and help people to encounter, trust, and love Jesus Christ.”
We’re made up of people from different ages and backgrounds so you needn’t worry about not fitting in. Our services are a blend of traditional and newer styles; we sing newer songs as well as timeless hymns, led by our devoted music group.
We’ve been based in Boscombe for quite some time! Further down this page you’ll find a timeline of our church history. You’ll also find info about our leadership, as well as an overview of our church beliefs, so if you’re looking to join us you can have a read of this in advance.
What We Believe
We hold to the teachings of Christianity as found in the Bible, which we believe to be the inspired Word of God.
We are a Baptist church that practices believer’s baptism. We’re connected to the Baptist Union, as well as some other wonderful organisations that we support:
Our Church Mission and Vision
“We exist to glorify God and to help people to know, trust and love Jesus Christ.
We aim to be a growing family, devoted to God and His Word, serving and impacting our community through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
For a fuller breakdown of our beliefs, you can read our Statement of Faith on the Evangelical Alliance website.
If there’s anything that isn’t clear, or that you’d like to talk through with us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Our Leadership Team
We have a dedicated team of deacons who assist the Pastor in leading and serving the church.
This team is overseen by our Pastor, Revd Dan Chirnside.
Hi, I’m Dan, married to Emma, a qualified Mental Health Nurse, who, amongst many other things, co-ordinates our Sunday school and heads up our women’s ministry. We’re both graduates of Moorland’s College and have been involved in church and para-church ministry for a combined total of over 30 years. I’ve previously held pastoral positions at both independent and Baptist churches and joined BBC as Pastor in April 2020.
In my spare time, I enjoy watching and playing sports of all kinds (although the emphasis tends to be on the former rather than the latter in recent years!); drinking good coffee; and spending time with Em and our two children.
I am ably assisted by a wonderful team of deacons whose profiles you’ll find below.
Graham Clarke, Church Secretary
Hi, I’m Graham, married to Elena, and I serve BBC as the newly elected Church Secretary.
In my professional work, I teach English as a foreign language, having done so for many years in many different parts of the world including China, South Korea and most recently Italy, where I met my beautiful wife, Elena.
Originating from the West Country, I’m an avid Bristol City fan, but please don’t hold it against me – it’s a tough enough cross to bear! I also enjoy reading theology and mythology, but don’t confuse the two!
I’m encouraged by the growth and diversity here at BBC and am excited by the increasing number of children and young people.
Doug Stewart, Music and Tech
Hello, I’m Doug, married to Gabriella, and I serve BBC by overseeing the music group and tech team.
When I have some free time, I enjoy playing the guitar and looking at guitars in music shops (although my wife says I don’t need anymore!).
I also enjoy camping and going to different places around Dorset. I’m married to Gabriella who also sings in the band and plays the keyboard; we’ve been at BBC for several years although I attended here with my parents back in the late 80’s/early 90’s. I’m excited with the church’s growth in the last few years, and to see where God takes us in the future.
Debbie Richards, Safeguarding and Children
Hi, I’m Debbie. I’m married to Nigel and have two grown up daughters and two grandchildren oh and not forgetting Leo our ragdoll pussy cat!
I’m passionate about reaching the next generation for Christ and making a difference in the lives of children, young people and families. I currently serve in a variety of capacities, including BBC’s Designated Person for Safeguarding.
Church Founded
The church is founded in Boscombe by a small company of devoted men and women, led by the Rev. H. C. Leonard.
Building Work
The church building was enlarged and a pipe organ installed.
Memorial Plaque
Nine members of the Church and Sunday School made the supreme sacrifice during the First World War. In 1920 a memorial was erected and unveiled by the Mayor of Bournemouth.
New Buildings
The adjoining buildings were built to replace the old corrugated structure that housed the original Sunday School.
Memorial after WWII
The West window was reglazed and amendments made to the gallery beneath it as part of the Second World War Memorial Scheme. Three church members lost their lives during WWII.
Church Growth
By this time, the BBC membership had grown to over 160 people.
Vestibule Extension
An extension of the vestibule was added to the West wall, built in Purbeck Stone.
Missionary Sent
The church sends a missionary to Malaysia to preach God’s Word.
Further Refurb
Refurbishment of the buildings included the addition of disabled facilities, an enlarged vestibule, redecoration of the hall and the removal of the church pews.
Modernisation
Church hall refurbished to include modern kitchen and disabled facilities.
Community Witness
By the grace of God, the leadership team expands following church growth, with the revitalisation of the church well and truly underway…over 20 baptisms in 4 years being the highlight!
150 Years
BBC celebrates 150 years of Christian worship and witness in Boscombe, to the glory of God.
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