SCC History
Our building dates back to the Cadbury era of the late 1800s. We're proud that this building continues to be used to serve God and our community.
The Stirchley Institute (the building's original name) was opened in 1892 by Richard and George Cadbury. They felt a deep responsibility for the wellbeing of the population of Stirchley Village, so they set out to provide a centre for religious, social and recreational purposes.
Over the years, the building has housed a place of worship, a tearoom, dance hall, a day school for young Cadbury employees and other further education classes.
Stirchley Elim Pentecostal Church (SEPC) was birthed by a handful of local residents, led by Eva Base, who had a vision for a Pentecostal church in their home area. Initially, they met in homes or other buildings in the area.
In 1971, Rev. John Coleman, who grew up in the area and recently returned to South Birmingham, became the Pastor of this small gathering. Over time, he set about looking for permanent premises for this growing group.
While searching for a building, he heard that Stirchley Institute was to be sold but it had been offered to the City because the local Education department had been using it. However, unbeknown to John and his wife Phoebe, a miracle had started to unfold.
During a conversation with a Property Controller, as an after thought, John was encouraged to put something in writing. An offer by a different organisation was rejected, thus enabling SEPC to purchase the building. The path was made smoother by the fact that planning permission for ‘change of use’ was not required, as the building had always been a place of worship. The opening ceremony took place in March 1974. The mortgage was paid off by 1980, which is amazing as the weekly offerings for the congregation were just £5.00.
Through the years, the fabric of the building has undergone a variety of renovations and updates in order to meet current needs. One example is the installation of a lift to enable easier access to the first floor where weekly services take place.
Some years ago, the members of the congregation decided that they needed to better express their status as an integral part of what goes on in our area. So they changed their name to Stirchley Community Church, which continues to be the name of the church today.
