A new afterschool bible-study club, a games night and regular lunch club, is just some of the outreach underway at Christ Church and St John the Baptist Church in Erith, as they seek to grow fruitful encounters with the church and with God across their community.
“I want our churches to be places where everyone feels they belong, no matter their background or stage of life,”
says the Rev Anthea Harris-Faulkner, Vicar of the churches of Christ Church and St John the Baptist in Erith.
“Our mission is about connection —both with each other and with the love of God.”
This intention is evident in the variety of activities and outreach underway across the two churches.
Watch: As part of our ‘Growing the Kingdom’ series of films and stories, Anthea and her team talk about the connections they are making.
Creating Spaces for Families
At Christ Church, the joy of children fills the hall every Tuesday morning during the Toddler Church. Parents and little ones, aged 0 to 5, gather for playtime, storytelling, and community.
“It’s such a lovely way to support families,” says Funmi, Children’s and Families Worker at Christ Church. “We get to see relationships flourish—not just among the children but also between the caregivers.”
One of the church’s standout family events is Messy Church, every third Friday of the month.
Designed for all the family, the gathering includes hands-on activities, Bible stories, songs, shared meals, and moments of celebration.
“Faith should be fun and engaging, especially for kids,” she says. “Messy Church gives families a chance to experience the joy and creativity of the gospel together.”
Photo: Volunteers at Christ Church, Erith (Funmi, centre and Anthea, centre right)
There’s a strong connection with the local church school too, with a new after-school Bible study group launched by Christ Church in January 2025, just one example of how church and school engage on a regular basis.
Sundays at both churches bring additional opportunities for children to explore and grow in their faith through the Junior Church programs.
“Recently, the children at Christ Church renamed their group the Junior Disciples Club,’ says Anthea, “which I think is a wonderful expression of their ownership.”
Food and Fun
Meanwhile, at St John’s Church, older residents are finding friendship and joy through the Silver Birch Club, which serves both Erith and Bexley communities.
Run in partnership with Home Instead, care professionals, St John’s Church offers a meal for attendees, while Home Instead brings in entertainment, offering a lively social experience that brings joy to members and fosters friendship
“Our older community members deserve to feel valued,” Anthea emphasises. “The Silver Birch Club creates a sense of belonging and gives people something to look forward to. It’s been incredible to see the impact it’s had.”
Photo: St John's Church, Erith where the lunch club takes place.
Working in partnership with other organisations has been an important part of the toolkit for how the two churches are aiming to meet the differing needs present within their communities
A partnership with the charity Re-Instate, has brought about a monthly Games Night, offering a chance for individuals to socialise, play games, and build friendships, all in an enjoyable and relaxed atmosphere.
“Games Night offers people that work during the day a chance to have a chat, relax, meet new people and just have fun.”
She adds that, by hosting the regular meetups, the church is aiming to create opportunities for community members to connect beyond traditional worship settings.
A Mission of Love
The work of Rev Anthea and the congregations at Christ Church and St John the Baptist Church, Erith, is a powerful example of community-focused ministry.
“When we take the time to care for each other, we reflect God’s love in the most tangible way,” she says. “I’m so proud of how our congregations are stepping up to make a difference. Together, we’re creating something truly beautiful for this community."