FAQ re Baptists
Baptists – are they a new-fangled sect?
Not at all! The first Christians to be called Baptists emerged at the Reformation in 1521, so they were among the first Protestants.
Baptists evolved as a separate denomination in
Are Baptists a minority denomination?
Definitely not! It may surprise you to know that Baptists make up the largest Protestant denomination in the world, with 38 million world-wide. They are especially prevalent in
Do Baptists have different beliefs from other Protestant churches?
Baptists share the central beliefs of mainstream and other Protestant churches. It is quite common for Baptists to work together with other Christian churches in their neighbourhood (for example Churches Together in
One major distinction between Baptists and some other Protestant Christians is their approach to baptism. In Baptist churches, baptism is not offered to babies, but only to those who are old enough to request it for themselves.
Baptists are not centrally controlled – each congregation is independent and so are free to run their own churches, organising their own affairs and calling their own ministers. The decisions of the church are made collectively by the church membership. All members are invited to participate in this aspect of church life.
Most Baptist churches, including our own, belong to the Baptist Union. The Baptist Union of Great Britain has its headquarters at nearby Didcot and is responsible for a wide range of activities such as providing support and back-up for the churches and ministers and overseeing training and education programmes.
Do you need fancy clothes for church?
No! Some people still prefer to wear formal clothing to attend services, but most people nowadays are used to more casual clothes. So, whatever style you favour, you shouldn't feel out of place.
How can I find out more about Christianity?
Take a look at www.rejesus.co.uk website which explores Jesus’ life, character and teachings.
If you’d like to talk to someone from Wallingford Baptist Church, please feel free to call in at any of our services or to contact us via this website.