For those in Bedford seeking a welcoming and dynamic place to explore faith and build community, Woodside Church offers a compelling invitation. Rooted in Christian values, this church provides a multifaceted approach to worship, fellowship, and service that resonates with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds.
Firstly, Woodside Church fosters a strong sense of belonging. They explicitly state their desire to be "a family to belong to," a place where individuals can "come as you are, be loved and meet with God." This emphasis on creating a supportive and accepting environment is crucial for those seeking a spiritual home where they can feel comfortable and connected. Their community groups are described as the "heart and heartbeat of church life," providing smaller settings for deeper relationships, mutual support, and a tangible sense of family. For the residents of Bedford, finding such an inclusive and caring community can be invaluable.
The worship experience at Woodside Church is designed to be both engaging and accessible. Their Sunday services, held at two locations in Bedford (Dover Crescent in Putnoe and the Great Denham Community Hall), feature contemporary worship led by a live band, relevant teaching grounded in Christian faith, and opportunities for fellowship. The provision of live Ukrainian translation at their Putnoe venue demonstrates a commitment to reaching out and serving the diverse population of Bedford. These services aim to equip and inspire attendees for the week ahead while remaining understandable and welcoming to visitors exploring Christianity.
Beyond Sunday services, Woodside Church actively serves the wider Bedford community through a range of outreach initiatives. Their "Community" page highlights numerous weekly activities aimed at different demographics and needs. These include "Play People," a playgroup for parents and toddlers; "Connections," a group for those over 55 offering companionship and activities; and "Centre 41 Drop In," providing support and advice on budgeting, benefits, and signposting to other services. The church also hosts a food distribution centre for Bedford Foodbank and runs "Linking Lives," a befriending service for isolated individuals. This tangible commitment to serving the local community demonstrates a faith in action that many in Bedford would find meaningful.
Furthermore, Woodside Church is affiliated with the Catalyst network, part of the Newfrontiers family of churches, indicating a connection to a wider movement focused on church planting and equipping leaders. Their stated "Woodside DNA" emphasises being "a family full of grace and truth," "knowing the word and power of the Spirit," being "called to serve and reflect our community," and "seeking to equip and release everyone." These values underscore a desire to be authentic, biblically grounded, Spirit-led, and actively involved in making a positive impact in Bedford.
