Thinking of Coming Along?
Are you nervous?
That is completely normal — and you are not alone.
Walking into a church for the first time can feel daunting. You might wonder whether people will stare, what to wear, or whether you will feel out of place. We understand that, and we want to reassure you.
Bethel is a warm, friendly church where you will be genuinely welcomed from the moment you arrive. There is no dress code, no entrance fee, and no pressure — just good people who are pleased you came.
The service lasts around 80 minutes and includes singing, prayer, and Bible teaching. If singing is not your thing, that is absolutely fine — plenty of people just listen and enjoy the music.
Meet our Pastor, Harry Pritchard
What Visitors Say About Bethel
We came to Bethel in September 2025. Wow! We were met with such a great welcome. The atmosphere, the people, and Pastor Harry's teachings are wonderful. This is the Church we had always wished to find, and now we have… We're staying!
Pam & DaveWhat do I do when I get there?
What time does service start and how long does it last?
We start at 10:30 Sunday morning (most people get there around 10:15). The service usually lasts about 75 minutes. Afterwards, we all have a tea/coffee & a biscuit in the lounge. It's very sociable.
What should I wear?
Clothes, please! No, seriously, anything that makes you feel comfortable.
Do I have to pay anything?
There is a collection plate by the door, but it's completely voluntary and there's no set amount.
Will I be put on the spot?
No, not at all. We pride ourselves on being friendly; it's what Bethel is all about.
What actually happens in a service?
There are prayers, lots of songs (sing if you feel like it, or just listen; there's no pressure), we have a short reading from the Bible, and Harry (the Pastor) gives one of his fantastic sermons.
Are children welcome, and is there anything for them?
We love having children in the service. There is a dedicated (supervised) play area in church itself, and for those who would like, they can go into the Sunday School for 30 minutes, instead of listening to the reading and the sermon. There they do all sorts of activities, it's very popular. All Children's work is run by our dedicated Children & Families Worker, Katherine, assisted on Sundays by Church Volunteers. At present the age range is 2 months to 14 years. Once every four weeks we do Sunday School Outside, weather permitting.
Where do I park?
There's a nice (free) car-park right outside the door, and ample parking on the street at the side, on a busy Sunday.
Will I know anyone there? Will people talk to me?
It's always daunting when you visit the first time, but rest assured, our congregation are very warm and friendly people. You will make friends very quickly.
What type of church is Bethel?
Bethel is a Baptist church — part of a worldwide family of Christians who believe in following Jesus, reading the Bible together, and baptising those who make a personal choice to follow Christ, usually by full immersion in water. Find out more about Baptist History →
What do Baptists believe in?
Simply put, we believe in the Word of God, and that baptisms are carried out on adult believers. Find out more about Baptist core beliefs →
Do Baptists take Communion?
Yes we do. We take Communion on the 3rd Sunday of the month. It is totally voluntary. We have alcohol-free wine and Gluten-free crackers for anyone with allergies.
How to Find Us
Every Sunday at 10:30am · Calamine Street, Macclesfield, SK11 7HU
Would You Like to Get in Touch Before You Visit?
Have a question, or would you like someone to look out for you on your first Sunday? We would love to hear from you.