Once Struggling Church is Now Booming

A Methodist church once on the brink of closure now boasts a booming multinational congregation who can listen to services in their own languages.

Just three years ago, Didcot Methodist Church in Oxfordshire could only count on an average attendance of around 12 worshippers, leading to fears that the 1903-contstructed house of worship would no longer be viable. 

But today up to 60 people flock through the doors on a Sunday morning, with more than ten nationalities represented in the thriving church family.

Putting the growth down to prayer and consistent pastoral oversight, the Revd Bruce Thompson says that engagement, inclusion and participation are also vital components in welcoming new people to the church.

He said: “Didcot has one of the most diverse populations amongst the towns of South Oxfordshire, and the Methodist church has grown to reflect that demographic. It has been important to welcome new attendees, to follow up shortly afterwards, and to involve those who wish to participate early on.”

One new member explained why she began worshipping at the church by saying that she was passing one Sunday, saw people who “looked like me” and went in. She is now one of the Church Council’s representatives to the Circuit Meeting.

Another joined after seeing the church noticeboard, which included her first language.

The Revd Bruce said that communicating with the new congregation has been vital.

“The average age of the new members is significantly lower than those who have attended many years.

“The combination of age, and in some circumstances the diversity of language, has meant that WhatsApp has been the preferred choice of communication. 

“Checking up on one another, extending an invitation to read, and promoting special services and other events is more effectively accomplished through WhatsApp. It also provides a degree of distance and sense of safety, not being too intrusive.”

Another factor in the church’s growth and inclusivity is a translation service created by member Kanniah Chille. 

Kanniah set about ensuring no one would feel excluded from worship on the grounds of language and produced a system that attendees can access by scanning a QR code from a poster in the foyer or on the noticeboard.

This takes the user to a website where they can select the language of their choice. As they listen to the service, their smartphone produces the text in both the language of the speaker and the user.

The text is recorded on the site, allowing the user to play back both languages, thus helping them develop their language skills. Details about the service can be found on chillexion.co.uk

In November, the church is to host its second International Day celebration, where members invite family, friends and neighbours to participate in worship and share in a meal with dishes from across the globe.

In addition to International Day, a team consisting of members from five different countries lead worship every six weeks, bringing colour, fresh perspectives and diverse traditions to the church.