About SURC
WHERE WE ARE!
We are situated 20 miles from Poole and 30 miles from Bournemouth in the beautiful seaside town of Swanage. The map below shows our location in Swanage:
OUR HISTORY
The introduction of Non conformity to Swanage is largely due to William Clarke. He used to walk in from Wareham on a weekday and preach in private houses to the quarrymen and marblers.
They, and other Christian friends, were informed of his arrival by a pre-arranged signal as the meetings had to be kept secret. The earliest part of the present Church buildings was opened on 5th August 1705. This is now the hall of the Church.
- Due to rising numbers it became clear that larger premises were needed.
- The new Church was built alongside the Chapel and this was opened on 1st July 1901.
- The Congregational Church became the United Reformed Church in 1972.
- Today our Church has around 100 members with youth groups playing an important part in its life and Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Brownies, Beavers and FURY meet as part of the Church family.
In addition there are groups for adults, such as Womens Guild, SIGMA, as well as a Mens Club. Each week the kitchen is busy providing meals for an ecumenically organised Luncheon Club for the elderly.
Currently the Church is examining its role in the community and its future mission to the town and its visitors.