About Us
History of the Church
The church or rather Ebenezer Chapel, as it is always known and is often fondly referred to, first opened its doors in 1819 and has stood as a distinctive place of worship for the people of Bretherton and those that live beyond in the surrounding communities. Generations of families have worshipped here, making the church a place where the Christian faith and tradition are handed down.
A notable figure associated with local worship is Reverend William Roby, considered the principal person among the founders of the Lancashire Congregational Union. He once served as Master of the Free School of Bretherton and although never a minister of the Chapel, was the first preacher at the Ebenezer Chapel when it opened on 1st June 1819.
Bretherton itself a village with deep historical roots, its name pointing to pre-conquest origins. The early life of the parish was closely connected to Bank Hall, a local manor house that played a central role in the development of the area as a farming community.
The Building
The fine church building is constructed of red brick with a pillared entrance. To one side lies a recently refurbished church hall with Sunday school room, kitchen and toilet facilities and to the other a peaceful burial ground, a graveyard which reflects the great family history involved in this place.
Inside the church there is an attractive wooden gallery as well as a beautiful sounding organ installed in 1956 and paid for by church members at that time. They each gave 5 shillings a month until it was theirs!
Stained glass windows add to the beauty of the place, as light reflects through them and colours dance on the walls.
History and modern day worship come together in this place, where a sense of peace can always be found, as remarked by so many who enter it.
Community & Worship
Alongside its architectural and historical significance, Bretherton Congregational church is a constant presence in this community. Worship is central to its reason for being here, the reason for it being built in the first place! It is a place for prayer.
All ages of people come together on a weekly basis to worship on a Sunday. Some services are particularly for celebrations such as Christmas, Easter Day and Harvest. It is the place for Christenings and Baptism for all ages. It is a place to come together when a loved one has died for a funeral. It is a place where many have been joined together in the celebration of marriage and have yet to do so!
There are strong links with the community and a number of different groups for all ages and walks of life meet here. Events bring people together and strengthen the bonds of village life.
School Connections
Our church has strong and valued links with Bretherton Endowed CE Primary School. The historic ties between the schools and church nurture a sense of shared heritage and community. Our Pastor, Anna, also serves as Foundation Governor of the school, reinforcing the close relationship between church and education in the village today. Pastor Anna is also welcomed into Bishop Rawstorne Church of England Academy, Croston.
Diaconate
Our church is supported by a team of nine deacons who work closely with our minister to care for the spiritual and practical life of the church.
Deacons are chosen by the congregation and serve for three years. They offer pastoral support, help guide church discussions, and play an important part in shaping our shared direction.
While deacons bring ideas and recommendations, all major decisions are made together by the church family at our church meetings.
Worship
We meet every Sunday at 10:30am for worship. On the first Sunday of each month, we usually celebrate Holy Communion together.
Our services follow a traditional congregational style, using traditional hymns and modern christian songs. As we welcome guest preachers from a variety of churches and denominations, services can vary in style, offering enriching worship experiences.
Everyone is welcome, our doors are open to all.
Churches Together
We’re blessed to share fellowship with Parish Church of St. John through Churches Together in Bretherton. We join together a number of times each year, worshipping and sharing fellowship together.
Sunday School
We have a well-established Sunday School, led by a creative and experienced team. The school is open to all children up to age 11, after which they’re encouraged to become youth members of the church.
Children join us for the first part of the Sunday service which includes a children's message, then head to their own time of learning and worship. Children are invited to take an active role in services - leading prayers, reading poems, and even helping with the weekly collection.