Our History


The present church building was first opened on June 11th 1905 at a cost of £3,300 and replaced a wooden building which had served the needs of the Baptist community for 12 years. The witness itself had commenced even earlier in 1890 with the arrival of Rev FTB Westlake, a young minister who had trained at Spurgeon's college in London.
 
At the service for the laying of the foundation stone, Rev. Thomas Spurgeon (son of the famous CH Spurgeon) reminded the congregation of the privileges and responsibilities of church membership and of the necessity of keeping the church 'hot' and alive. Through the years the church has sought to maintain a vibrant witness in Douglas. In 1981, however, the membership was down to 14 and there was talk of closure but, through the arrival and subsequent ministry of a young Ulsterman, Rev David Gordon, the church saw considerable growth over the following years.
 
On Whit Sunday 1993, the church celebrated its centenary by reopening a completely refurbished building which included the installation of a 100 seater balcony. Around the same time two guesthouses adjacent to the church were purchased and have been fully transformed into the Alpha Centre, " a place of new beginnings".
 
The Alpha Centre currently houses (amongst other things) the Well Café - “Refreshing Different”, the Graih charity who work with the homeless and various aspects of the Foundry work.

Broadway continues to strive to be at the heart of the local community as we live to make Jesus known.
 
Broadway Baptist Church: