It’s a tough world out there at present – and a lot of people are asking questions. “We want to be a church for the community,” says Dave Solt, pastor of the Wycliffe church. “We want to reach out and help people in all walks of life. We will provide a listening ear to start. But we also believe people need spiritual help – the Bible has the answers to every situation.”
The church has recently experienced significant growth, with many new families joining and new classes launched for children and youth. They’ve also begun holding family services that bring children and adults together in worship. Pastor Dave says the church encourages visitors. “When people walk past, we want the church to smile back and for people to feel welcome. We want the Bible’s truths to be the main course, and our worship the garnish leading to the main course.”
Wycliffe offers a distinctively Baptist, traditional Christianity, which is Christ centred and based on the Bible’s teaching. Sunday morning services are also livestreamed on Facebook & YouTube. There is also a Wednesday Bible study, both in-person and on Zoom using Powerpoint presentations.
The American minister, 62, who is on the Royal Preston Hospital Chaplaincy team, speaks about the benefits of faith in God from personal experience. As a young man of 20, he felt trapped in a life of alcohol and drugs until a fellow US airman handed him a sermon tape. “I realised my need and that I needed Jesus and I called out to Him and accepted Him into my life. I knew immediately something had happened and my life had changed. I’d been in trouble and now was safe. I want people who are looking for answers in life to come to know Jesus personally, to follow Him and love the Bible.“ His approach is gentle and respectful of others’ opinions.
Pop by to see for yourself.
WHAT THE CHURCH OFFERS
Around 100 people attend Wycliffe, representing a broad range of ages. They meet every Sunday in a friendly and informal setting – with classes provided for Youth (12-18+), Junior (7-11), Primary (4-6), and fully staffed Creche offered alongside during the morning service (all workers have been DBS checked).
The pastor is David Solt, an ex-USAF mechanic from Arizona arrived in England 30 years ago. He and his wife live in Clifton and have three sons and three grandchildren. His oldest son, Daniel, has recently moved over with his family as has taken the role of Youth Minister.
Sunday services are at 10.30am and 6.30pm. Midweek meetings include a Bible Study on Wednesdays, 7pm, and a friendly coffee morning, Thursdays 10am-noon. A minibus service is available with the building is also fully accessible via a stairlift.
Visit their brand-new website or ring Pastor for more information.
