A group of Christians raised funds to build Bethesda Chapel in Whitaker Road, Allesley Park. Thanks to the financial support from Church St Gospel Hall, and others in 1966 the building was opened. Therefore Allesley Park Evangelical Church met in Bethesda Chapel in Allesley Park, Coventry.
Since 1966 the fellowship has provided a Christian witness in the Allesley Park and Whoberly area, where the Bible has been taught, the gospel preached and many discipled and have lived Christ centred lives serving others.
The building has been known as the Chapel or Bethesda to many in the local community. In recent times the fellowship have developed a range of activities that have reached out to the local community in providing a parents and toddlers group, Tots, Youth Groups and Family Teas. We held a thanksgiving service on 14 October 2012 for the old ‘Bethesda’ building before it was demolished.
In November 2013, a new building was opened with the vision to be used by God to reach out to the people of the surrounding area and held a celebration service.
In 2014 the youth was involved in raising money for Christian Aid, and took part in an abseil at Coventry Cathedral. During 2014 we started the Foodbank on Friday afternoons, which in the years to come have supported many people in a practical way.
In 2015, the outdoor area was developed which have been utilised by people of all ages ever since.
We held a number of events around the a theme of 50 acts of kindness, to celebrate 50 years of witness in 2016, culminating in a special thanksgiving service.
In March 2020 we held a Bible Exhibition for primary school aged children which was well attended with local schools attending. Little did we know at the time that we were heading for the COVID-19 lockdown. This led us to do online services setting up a Church YouTube page and Zoom services and were greatly encouraged with attendance and people learning new skills in using this technology. We held online quizzes and an virtual fun day, actively involved in the Open Heaven Prayer Walk in Coventry whilst taking part in Carol Singing in the car park.
In 2021 we held a special Easter reflection series based on the scars of Jesus and delivered over 1,000 Hope Magazines and leaflets around the local areas. We also gave out many Hot Cross Buns on Good Friday/
As well as giving praise to God for the past, we look to Him to help us and lead us in the present and future. Please visit us or join with us in worshipping and following our Great God.
GBXtra Youth Group (Age 5 -10)
Established in 2008, GBXtra runs every Friday Night at 6pm at Allesley Park Evangelical Church, during the school term time. Each week activities will include games, songs, a Bible Story and occasional Craft activities.
Holiday Bible Clubs (Age 5-10)
Many children have enjoyed the various clubs that have taken place for one week in the Summer. Fun activities, games, crafts, singing, bible stories, puppets have been shared with hundreds of children.
Junior Heroes 2019, Adventure Cruise 2018, Big Top Holiday Club 2017, Sports Academy 2016 Starship Discovery 2014, Seaside Rock 2012 Going Bananas 2008
Awesome Youth Group (Age 11-17)
‘Awesome’ began in the summer of 2009. Originally the group was an extension of the Holiday Bible Club run at Allesley Park Evangelical Church. We knew there was a need for the older youth to have a club of their own so we ran for 5 nights in the evenings. We played games, had competitions, snacks, spoke about God in our lives and had lots of fun. The week ended with a barbeque which was attended by youth and parents. Following this Awesome has met at ‘Bethesda’ as well as at St Johns CofE Academy, whilst building works were ongoing. We have held an awesome camp in 2013.
Mince Pie Cafe’
This annual event started in December 2013 and many hundreds of people have come in to sample a free mince pie and a drink, as well as children enjoying craft activities, and to enjoy fellowship and enjoyed a warm welcome and a conversation.
Hot Cross Bun Cafe’s
Held on Good Friday with refreshments and children activities, inviting the local community to join with us. Pictures can be found here from a number of years.
Family Fun Days
There has been bouncy castles, stalls, and fun events throughout the years to entertain the whole family.
Visits and church services at Allesley Hall Home and Eric Williams House
For many years, once a month we have visited these two nearby homes to sing the old favourite hymns, to pray and to share a message to bring hope and light to residents and staff.
Sunday Tea’s
Once a month a free tea followed by a message has taken place for many years. Many people have come in and visited us and heard an interesting talk about the Christian Faith and or music.