Rating: 3.7 ★ (6 ratings)
Tucked into Bonn Square, New Road Baptist Church offers a fascinating glimpse into Oxford's long tradition of progressive thinking and community spirit. Its classical façade, which incorporates parts of a Presbyterian chapel from 1721, stands near bustling shopping areas and historic Oxford Castle. The building itself is Grade II listed and saw significant enlargements in 1798 and 1819, when its distinctive pillars and architrave were added. As early as 1780, the church established a groundbreaking covenant, describing itself as 'a Protestant Catholic Church of Christ', fostering a broad and inclusive ethos that was remarkably ahead of its time. This historic church continues to be a vibrant part of the city, with its forecourt integrated into the Bonn Square development, placing it at the heart of one of Oxford's public spaces.
Today, New Road Baptist Church is known for its friendly and inclusive congregation, attracting a diverse community of all ages and backgrounds, including residents, students, and visitors from around the globe. The church actively promotes a 'broad, inclusive and life-affirming theology,' welcoming everyone regardless of age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or social status. Beyond its Sunday morning worship services, the church hosts a variety of activities, including regular openings for quiet reflection, student bible studies, and community groups like the Lived Experience Advisory Forum (LEAF). The church building, which includes the Mint House (named for its proximity to Charles I's Royal Mint), also offers spaces for events and meetings, further cementing its role as a hub within the city.
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday: Closed; Sunday: Closed
+44 1865 798235
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