What are Baptists?

Baptist churches are found in almost every country in the world. As part of the world-wide Christian church, Baptists form one of the largest families of faith alongside other trinitarian Christians. The name 'Baptist' refers to our practice of believers' baptism. (See link above)

A baptist church is not a place or a building, but a family of believers, committed to Christ, to each other and to the service of God in the world.

Every Baptist has a part to play in the service of God. There are no bishops or priests exercising authority. Each local Baptist church appoints its own pastor or minister to have particular responsibility for preaching, teaching and pastoral care. Working alongside the minister are elected deacons who, together with the minister and other elected church officers form the leadership team of each church.

Local churches are self-governing and financially independent. Despite this independence, Baptists have always believed in associating with one another. Churches come together in regional, national and international associations which promote and support the fellowship of Baptists everywhere. (See our links page.)