A special service of celebration was held to mark the 200th anniversary of Creech Baptist Church on Sunday, March 10.

Members of the church’s regular congregation were joined by friends, well-wishers and special guests.

Lead Pastor Matt Bradley and Assistant Pastor Mark Bailey welcomed the incoming President of the Baptist Union, Revd Dr Steve Finamore, who was the preacher, along with the Mayor of Taunton, Nick O'Donnell, and several former ministers.

Matt Bradley said: “It was a really special day in the life of the church and the community, a great celebration when we could give thanks to God for all his blessings during our 200 years of prayer, worship and sharing God's love, as well as celebrating all that the church is still doing.”

Another special ‘birthday party’ service was held on Sunday, March 17, attended by people of all ages including several from the church’s past. After the service there was an indoor picnic, and around 40 people then walked up Thorn Hill and prayed over Creech and the surrounding areas.

The Baptist Church in the village of Creech St Michael, near Taunton, was founded in 1824 to serve Creech St Michael and the nearby areas. Its present building was built in the 1980s.

Around 250 people attend the worship on Sundays, and the church also provides a Life Cafe as a community meeting place, two youth groups, a parent and toddler group, Alpha courses for people who want to explore the Christian faith, a monthly community feast and many other activities. The annual summer holiday club attracts more than 100 children for a week in the school holiday.

More information can be found on the church’s website www.creechbc.co.uk.