East Keswick Methodist Church
To the Glory of God
In the heart of East Keswick
About our church
est. 1891
East Keswick Methodist Church is set in the village of East Keswick, West Yorkshire on Main Street. Our congregation is made up of people of differing ages, some of whom live within the village whilst others come from the surrounding area. Although we are a small congregation, we try to provide something for all ages, either at our traditional service or at our more informal worship during cafe church. We are one of nine churches that make up the Tadcaster Circuit – a network of methodist churches within the Yorkshire North & East District of the Methodist Church in Britain reaching from East Keswick across to Appleton Roebuck, and from Wetherby down to Church Fenton.
We try to serve our local community by sharing and living by the good news that Jesus, God’s only son, came into this world to show us how to be in relationship through him with God and with those around us. We believe that all have the opportunity to be transformed by knowing and trusting in him. To find out about our current work within the local community click here.
There are over 6,000 Methodist Churches in Britain with a total membership of about 330,000 people and around one million people in Britain have an active connection with the Methodist Church.
1891
The current church was built in 1891
“To The Glory of God”
and in memory of Joseph Laurence.
9
We are one of 9 churches that make up the Tadcaster Circuit
125
The sanctuary can hold a maximum
capacity of 125 people
Our people
Rev. Steve Jakeman
Our minister is the Reverend Steve Jakeman. He was ordained as Presbyter in 2016 and joined us in early 2020.
Rev. Steve can be contacted on 01937 842156 or via email at rev.stevejay@gmail.com.
Lay Pastor, Eileen Clarkson
We are also served and supported by our Lay Pastor, Eileen who was appointed to the Tadcaster circuit in 2019.
Eileen can be contacted on 07949 050940 or via email at Eileen.coombe@hotmail.com.
Stewards
We have three stewards who take on a variety of roles, offer a friendly welcome at services as well as promoting the work and activities of the church. They would be happy to answer any questions about our church.
Penny
Tel: 07900 887232
Sally
Tel: 07931 558939
Christine
Tel: 07801 5157510
Safeguarding
It is the Methodist Church’s intention to value every human being as part of God’s creation and the whole people of God. At the heart of the Methodist community is a deep sense of the place of welcome, hospitality and openness, which demonstrates the nature of God’s grace and love for all.
The Methodist Church is committed to safeguarding as an integral part of its life and ministry. Safeguarding is about the action the Church takes to promote a safer culture and protect the vulnerable.
You can download our Safeguarding Policy here.
Our history
Methodism flourished in East Keswick in the 18th century and in 1792, following dispensation from the Archbishop of York, a chapel was opened. In the mid-19th century, Joseph Laurence ran a college in the village (the Laurence Academy) for the training of young men for the Methodist Ministry to work all over the world, preaching in many countries, notably Newfoundland. When Joseph Laurence died, his students – past and present – determined to build a chapel to his memory in East Keswick.
The chapel was indeed built and then opened in the village in 1891 on Easter Monday. It was named the ‘Joseph Laurence Memorial Chapel’. The chapel retained that name until 1981 when it became East Keswick Methodist Church. A plaque in honour of Laurence was subsequently erected in the church bearing the inscription:
To the Glory of God,
and in memory of
JOSEPH LAURENCE (1819-1886).
This Church was built
and opened in 1891.
In this village Joseph
Laurence founded
a College for Teachers
and Ministers
many of whom served overseas
notably in Newfoundland.
More about Joseph Laurence
Joseph Laurence was born in East Keswick, Nr Wetherby in 1819. His father had operated a school in the area for some years, and after his father’s death, Joseph succeeded him as schoolmaster. He also conducted prayer meetings and Bible study groups and was very involved in the affairs of the local Methodist church.
He eventually established a training centre for young men of limited means who wished to undertake Methodist missionary work. Some of these men went out to British colonies in India, Africa, Australia and New Zealand, with Laurence often covering much of their expenses himself. Joseph Laurence died in East Keswick in October 1886 and was buried there.
What makes a Methodist?
Worship
The Church exists to increase awareness of God’s presence and to celebrate God’s love.
Learning & Caring
The Church exists to help people to grow and learn as Christians, through mutual support and care.
Service
The Church exists to be a good neighbour to people in need and to challenge injustice.
Evangelism
The Church exists to make more followers of Jesus Christ.
Hire our facilities
In the community
