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About Our Church

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The word “church” refers not to a building, but to the assembly of all Christians. “Grace Church” therefore refers quite simply to the Christians who “assemble” together for Sunday worship in Bolnore, and who have committed to deepening their faith and serving Christ together.

 

Those who formalize membership with us, are those who are committed to Christ and all we're doing. Those from the whole range of Christian backgrounds have therefore found a happy home amongst us. But we also delighted to welcome anyone to share in our life together, whether they are committed Christians or not. 

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There are three particular things that define Grace Church itself:

 

(1) Grace Church is an independent church.

 

Throughout history local churches have linked up with other churches who do things in a similar way. Some groupings share a more centralized structure which determines a degree of what the local church does. These are called “denominations.” Examples are Anglicanism, Presbyterianism, Methodism, the United Reformed Church etc. Yet there are many churches known as “independent” or “free” churches. They hold that the Bible teaches local churches should be free to decide what they do in all matters, according to how they understand the Bible and the needs of those they serve.

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Grace Church was initially established by an Anglican Church – All Saints’ Lindfield. So, you may recognize some elements of Anglicanism in how we do things. However, we have chosen to be an independent church. This means we are entirely self-governing and self-funding. Our conviction is that this form of church organization most aligns with the Bible’s teaching and so is best suited to fulfilling God’s purposes. It helps every member feel a responsibility for church life, ensures money given is stewarded well, and can be more easily adapted to whatever context the church serves.

 

(2) Grace Church is an evangelical church.

 

Many independent churches do still unite with others churches for the sake of greater effectiveness, encouragement and accountability. This may be with other free churches that share similar structures and practices, or with churches that share similar beliefs and values, including those from the denominations.

 

The groupings we belong to (see below) share beliefs and values that are often described as “evangelical.” The word can be misunderstood as referring to those who are somewhat enthusiastic or right wing. It actually comes from the Greek word “evangel,” meaning “gospel,” which describes the truths Jesus taught are of first importance. Evangelical churches are simply those who seek to prioritise these truths.

 

(3) Grace Church is an historic church.

 

This doesn’t mean we meet in an ancient building. What it does mean is that we stand in line with the central beliefs and practices of Christians since the time of Christ. That’s why we make so much of the Bible. And it is reflected in our adherence to the historic statements that have always united Christians throughout the world: The Apostles (3rd century) and Nicene (4th century) Creeds.

 

Many of our convictions also reflect those that marked the sixteenth century Reformation when churches throughout Europe sought to re-form their practices according to the Bible’s teaching. In particular, you will notice that we hold a high view of God’s majesty and grace, and seek to ensure that the Bible plays a central role in the words, prayers, songs and talk that make up our worship.