Since found in 1640…
In 2025 Abbey Baptist Church celebrated its 385th birthday and a number of special events have marked the event.
In 2015, Abbey joined eight churches from 1640 for a thanksgiving service at Broadmead Baptist Church, Bristol. The event celebrated over 300 years of shared history and faith. It honored the congregations’ commitment to the Gospel through challenges and change. Members expressed gratitude, renewed their mission, and celebrated their collective heritage.
Early Reading members met in rented rooms on Pigney Lane. In 1692, they built a meeting house on Church Lane. The church moved to Hosier Street in 1752 to accommodate growth. In 1834, they relocated to Kings Road for more outreach and ministry opportunities. Each move reflected their dedication to worship and community.
In 1979, the congregation undertook its shortest relocation yet, crossing the Holy Brook to settle into its current home in Abbey Square. Notably, this new location is steeped in history, as it occupies the site of the Bakery, Mill House, and Stables of the ancient Reading Abbey. Furthermore, this move symbolized not only a physical transition but also a deep connection to the area’s historical and spiritual heritage. Over the following decades, the building has, in fact, become a hub of worship, fellowship, and community outreach. Consequently, by 2019, the church joyfully celebrated 40 years in its current premises, reflecting on the many blessings and growth experienced during this time.
We share God’s love through Jesus with our church and community. This inspires care, compassion, and mutual support. We extend this love to the community with acts of kindness, service, and outreach. By doing so, we reflect God’s transformative power and offer hope to everyone we meet.