The Church Social and community function of churches
The Christian Church has many denominations. Churches and chapels have diverse features and worshipping practices, but all value the importance of prayer – both private and communal.
Christians believe that it is part of their duty to act in a moral way and this involves helping others around them. The Church can play a vital role in Christians helping others as they provide:
food banks – a place where people living in poverty can go and collect some food
Salvation Army – a Christian denomination who help those who are suffering
help for the homeless – Housing Justice is a Christian charity who try to ensure everyone has a home
There are also many non-religious functions that can take place in a church building, eg:
crèche facilities
youth groups
community meeting places (eg keep fit classes)
adult education classes
charity events
coffee mornings
birthday parties
concerts
Jesus taught the importance of helping others who are less fortunate, and this is why the Church has these extra functions.
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me
— Matthew 25:35-36
Question
Describe the main functions of the church.
The Christian Church has many different functions. The main function of a local church is a place for Christians to worship. This can include individual worship and collective worship, such as a church service on a Sunday morning. As well as a place to worship, the church serves many other purposes, such as holding a Sunday school for children where they can learn about Jesus’ teachings, food banks for those who are living in poverty, concerts, fêtes and even crèche facilities.