Of Baptists, bombs and bishops: Exeter's rich tapestry

Threaded through the rich tapestry of Exeter’s history is the story of its many churches, ranging from the magnificence of the 12th century Cathedral to the many recently formed church groups meeting in schools around the city.

One of Exeter’s tucked away historical gems is South Street’s Baptist Church. Born in the aftermath of the Civil War (think Cavaliers and Roundheads) it is understood that around 1649 the city’s Baptist worshippers found a home in the dining room of the Cathedral’s Deanery (What Bishop Brownrigg thought of this is not recorded).

The present church building fronting South Street, created in 1725, has been a power house of Baptist tradition, contributing much to the vibrancy of city life. Surviving the Baedeker raid “blitz” of May 1942, it was saved from potential destruction by its then fire-watching minister and caretaker who, climbing onto the roof, dealt with incendiary devices and encroaching sparks from the adjoining flames.

Today this church and its Palace Gate Community Centre continues to provide support, hope and encouragement to the people of the city and its modern life and also through its daughter chapel at Brampford Speke.

South Street Baptist Church will celebrate with thanksgiving the 363 years of its foundation on Sunday 4th November at 11am, welcoming as guest preacher - the Rt. Rev. Michael Langrish, the Lord Bishop of Exeter. (There’s no back rent owing on the Deanery!). Come and celebrate too, you are sure of a warm welcome.

Commenting on the birthday ahead, South Street’s minister Rev. Simon Taylor observed “ We rejoice that many of our past divisions and disagreements have been set aside and today the city centre churches pray for each other and work in partnership. So we rejoice that Bishop Michael can join us as we give thanks for God’s faithful presence in the life and work of our church. With our Christian partners, we intend to go on expressing God’s love to this great city.”