(Moravian 1968, United 1975) in association with the Moravian Church and the United Reformed Church.
Now situated on the corner of Reddings Lane and York Road in Hall Green, the Sparkhill United Church shares worship with their Methodist brothers and sisters. The two congregations are responding to a number of issues that concern them and have taken the decision to work ecumenically in what is a multi-faith part of the city.
The Sparkhill Congregational Church has been in existence since 1909, initially on one side of the Stratford Road and then the other, when in 1933 the 'new' building was consecrated. Throughout her life she stood tall in her witness and service in the local community. One reason for such a move was an increasing church attendance, however, by the early 1970's attendance was on the decline.
In contrast, in the late 1950's and 60's many Moravians arrived in Britain from the Caribbean and, where possible joined existing Moravian congregations. However, there were no such opportunities in the Birmingham area. Soon Rev Kirby Spencer and others began the work of gathering the names of families and on the 19th November 1961 their first service was held, interestingly enough in another Methodist Church, but this time in Sparkhill. This would lead to a monthly Holy Communion Service conducted by Br Spencer who would travel up from London.
In September 1963 the congregation moved to the no longer required Methodist manse in Anderton Park Road, this being there first permanent home.
In 1975 the Sparkhill United Reformed Church, as she was then called, entered into a special relationship with the Birmingham Moravian Church, a relationship that has remained strong and seamless ever since.
In 2007 the now Sparkhill United Church moved again, this time to initially share a building with our Methodist friends, and latterly worship.
Today, you will find a large, vibrant worshiping community, with the traditions of all the three denominations complementing each other. We have explored what makes us the people of God that we are and have discovered that there is very little difference. We are looking forward to a joint future together, in whatever way God calls us, strong and united in his mission and service.
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