We're are an inclusive church.
It’s part of our spiritual DNA, and are now one of the most diverse churches in north Birmingham.

 

We're members of Inclusive Church Network

The ICN Statement says:

• We believe in inclusive church – a church which celebrates and affirms every person and does not discriminate.
• We will continue to challenge the church where it continues to discriminate against people on grounds of disability, economic power, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, learning disability, mental health, neurodiversity, or sexuality.
• We believe in a Church which welcomes and serves all people in the name of Jesus Christ; which is scripturally faithful; which seeks to proclaim the Gospel afresh for each generation; and which, in the power of the Holy Spirit, allows all people to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Jesus Christ.”

We're registering for equal marriage

On 12th July 2026, we as Members voted decisively to register for equal marriage, enabling ALL couples, whether straight or gay, to get married at Chester Road Baptist Church. We're working on completing the registration with Birmingham Register Office as quickly as possible. Watch this space!
 

Our journey to inclusion and beyond

We're building on the good work of previous generations.

2018: Church Members adopted our values, including #Inclusive. We said:   

• We strive to be as welcoming, generous and life-changing as Jesus Christ.
• Because God is Love, we welcome all those we meet, whatever their story, beliefs or lifestyle (without undermining safeguarding responsibilities).
• We champion all regardless of ability, age, ethnicity, gender, religion, or sexuality.

2023: Church Members voted decisively in a Baptist national consultation for Accredited Ministers in a same-sex civil partnership/ marriage to no longer be subject to ‘gross misconduct’ and so lose their Ministerial Accreditation.
2025: Church Members voted decisively to join the Inclusive Church Network.
2026: Church Members voted decisively to register for equal marriage.

Being inclusive is important, messy, beautiful, at times, frustrating... Come and be part of our growing community!