About us

Who are we?

Heaton Baptist Church (HBC) was planted in 1895 by a group of believers from Jesmond Baptist Church who were eager to establish an evangelical witness in the Heaton area. The history of HBC has been a testimony to God's faithfulness, often in demanding circumstances. Many people have given and sacrificed a great deal to seek the advancement of God's kingdom through this church. As we begin a new chapter in the church's history, we are excited that the Lord will continue to direct us and equip us to fulfil a significant ministry in our city. At present the church has a membership of 200 people but our Sunday services attract many other worshippers from a wide geographical area and from all walks of life. The church has grown to such an extent that we have recently embarked on a £1m-plus redevelopment of our halls.

Where are we?

Newcastle upon Tyne is the biggest city in the north, with significant history and important business links. It has a population of more than 300,000 people and is home to two highly-regarded universities and... oh yes, a famous football team! Significant sums have been spent in recent years to successfully regenerate the heart of the city. Our city has great facilities, good schools and excellent transport, including the Tyneside-wide Metro system and a fast-growing regional airport - British Airways, KLM, easyJet, Ryanair and FlyBe fly to many of the major airports in the UK and Europe. Heaton Baptist Church is located in a long-established residential area of mostly terraced flats. The population of Heaton is fairly mobile with a large number of students and a lower than average proportion of families with children. More than 5% of the population are from ethnic backgrounds, primarily Asian, which is slightly higher than the city average. The unemployment rate in Heaton is 11%, compared with a city average of 15%.

Our DNA and the Big 12

At Heaton Baptist Church, we talk about our "DNA" - the building blocks of the church - as intentional mission, spiritual maturity and whole life discipleship, founded on Father, Son and Holy Spirit, the bible and our values.

We have identified 12 values. Heaton Baptist Church is a Christian community that:
1. Is passionate about God – We owe Him everything. Jesus is the best thing that has ever happened to us. Neutrality is not an option.
2. Will elevate grace – being a safe, forgiving community that prefers open arms of compassion rather than pointing fingers of judgment.
3. Is rooted in the Bible – seeking to apply Gods timeless truth into the complexities of modern life.
4. Is welcoming and warm - trusting that new people find a spiritual home that is full of kindness and encouragement.
5. Understands that people matter to God -  whatever our shape, size, age, ethnicity, background, job or theological perspective, we cherish our diversity yet recognise that our power is in our unity, mutuality and togetherness.
6. Follows Jesus wholeheartedly -  across our 24/7 sphere of influence, whether we’re gathered or dispersed.
7. Lives life to the maximum – choosing to be positive, generous and encouraging people to be around.
8. Holds an holistic vision for our community, city and nation – desiring to be agents of transformation in our modern society through words, works and wonders.
9. Trusts completely in and dependent on the presence and power of the Holy Spirit – expecting the Spirit to work through us as He did in the acts of the apostles.
10. Gives sacrificially – encouraging all who make HBC their home to give as much as we’re able of our time, gifts and money to advance the kingdom of God.
11. Teaches and models a healthy work/life balance – encouraging family life, lifelong marriage, rest and recreation and rewarding work.
12. Pursues innovation and excellence in all areas of the church’s life – always giving of our best in everything we do.