The Forest Group​ of the United Reformed Church
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St James' URC - History

In 1860, a small group of people, led by a Mr Gingell and his supporters, met as a church in a room at The Bald-Faced Stag, the old public house where the Toby Carvery now stands.

In 1868 enough money had been raised to purchase the present site, call a pastor and build a school hall.

In 1873 the first church with the tower was built and in 1896 Buckhurst Hill Congregational Church was formally constituted.

In 1908 a fine pipe organ was built in the church and in 1927 two classrooms were added as the Sunday School was growing fast.   

Church life continued during the two world wars and Tidings, the first church magazine, was started to keep in touch with members who had moved away from home or who were serving in the forces.

In 1953, recognising that the original buildings had a limited life, the present dual-purpose church/hall was built.

In 1972, Buckhurst Hill Congregational Church became a United Reformed Church and in 1987, we adopted the name St. James’.

In 1987, part of the site was sold and the old church and classrooms were demolished for the construction of retirement flats, St. James’ Gate. The tower, however, was retained as a local landmark. The proceeds of the sale were used to refurbish and extend the 1953 building and provide the premises we have today.
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In more recent years St. James URC has become an enthusiastic Eco Congregation and in 2009 the solar panels on the roof were added.  
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We would love to have you join us on our journey of faith...

For general enquiries, please contact us on forestgroupchurches@gmail.com.

Chingford URC  |  St James' URC  |  Woodford Green URC
  • Home
  • About Us
    • About The Forest Group
    • Our Ministers
    • Church Membership
    • About The URC
    • Safeguarding
    • Useful Links
  • Our Churches
    • Chingford URC >
      • Chingford URC Key Info
      • Chingford URC Events and Activities
      • Chingford URC Halls For Hire
      • Chingford URC Elders
      • Chingford URC History
    • St James' URC >
      • St James' URC Key Info
      • St James' URC Events and Activities
      • St James' URC Halls For Hire
      • St James' URC Team
      • St James' URC History
    • Woodford Green URC >
      • Woodford Green URC Key Info
      • Woodford Green URC Events and Activities
      • Woodford Green URC Elders
      • Woodford Green URC History
      • Woodford Green URC - Planning Application
  • Our Services
    • Sunday Worship
    • Baptisms
    • Weddings
    • Funerals
  • Our Groups
  • Our News
  • Contact