Holly and ivy were also primitive symbols for male and female and therefore fertility. The Church injected Christian meaning into the use of holly, making it a symbol for Jesus' crown of thorns. One legend says holly berries used to be white but Christ's blood left them with a permanent crimson stain. To Christians, decorating with evergreens symbolises eternal life through Jesus.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Why do we decorate with EVERGREENS?

Holly, ivy and mistletoe are some of the few plants that keep their leaves during the European midwinter, and were revered as symbolising everlasting life. Sprigs of green leaves were brought inside to provide a temporary haven for the tree-dwelling spirits that were seen to have deserted the rest of the forest for the winter.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Why do we have CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS?

Christmas stockings come from one of the stories about the kindness of St Nicholas (see Father Christmas) who is said to have wanted to secretly provide the dowry for a poor girl to enable her to marry, and so threw a purse of money down a chimney...and it landed in a stocking hung up by the fire to dry!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Where did some of the well-known CHRISTMAS SONGS come from?

Jingle Bells was written in 1857! "White Christmas" was first sung by Bing Crosby in 1942, and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" was recorded by Gene Autry in 1949.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Two of the Christian version of this is that it should be made with 13 ingredients to represent Christ and His Disciples and that a sprig of holly is used to top the pudding as a reminder of the crown of thorns worn by Christ on the cross.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Flames from the brandy symbolise the heat of the returning sun and the sprig of holly - with its unique winter berries - evokes the fruit of the harvest.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

In theory, the pudding should be stirred by each member of the family in turn to show that everyone has done their bit, and only in an east-to-west direction, to mimic the sun's path across the sky.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The Celts kept the harvest god Dagda happy by stirring a pot of porridge for him. This was later livened up with prunes to become plum porridge; then it turned into plum pudding, and finally today's Christmas pudding.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Electric tree lights were first used just 3 years after Thomas Edison had his first mass public demonstration of electric lights back in 1879. And in 1903 the Ever - Ready Company of New York began the mass production of stringed electric lights.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Prince Albert didn't introduce the Christmas Tree to Britain, but he was responsible for the mid-19th century onwards surge in popularity. The first manufactured Christmas tree ornaments were sold by Woolworths in 1880.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Pictures or symbols representing people and events in the Bible were hung from a bare branch to make up a sort of family tree of Jesus. Christmas trees were decorated with apples, cakes and sweets for many centuries, and also decorated with candles, to remind children of the stars in the sky at the time of the birth of Jesus.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The Christmas tree points upwards to heaven reminding us of the Christ Child who pointed us to God. The "Jesse Tree" is a custom from the Middle Ages. It comes from the words 'A shoot shall come up from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a branch will bear fruit' (Isaiah 11. 1) Jesse was the father of King David and the Bible tells us that Jesus will be born 'of the house of David'.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Christian missionaries transferred the focus to firs, whose triangular shape they linked to the Holy Trinity, and people merged the idea of this tree with the tree seen in the Garden of Eden in the medieval "paradise plays"- depicting the story of man from Adam and Eve to the birth of Jesus- which had baubel like fruit hanging off it.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Twelfth Night also has its origins here: if the spirits were not released once midwinter had passed, the forests and fields might not awaken again.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The belief that bad luck will follow if you leave Christmas decorations up past Twelfth Night also has its origins here: if the spirits were not released once midwinter had passed, the forests and fields might not awaken again.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Why do we have CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS and CHRISTMAS TREES?

To appease the tree spirits, people in the Dark Ages attached painted stones and coloured cloth to oak branches in midwinter.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Who first pulled a CHRISTMAS CRACKER?

Crackers were invented by Thomas Smith in 1846 as a way of attractively wrapping French novelties he was trying to get people to buy as Christmas gifts! For the full story see http://www.absolutelycrackers.com/hist_evolved.html

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The growth of the postal service, and introduction of a flat rate for sending cards allowed this custom to spread, especially when steam trains speeded up the delivery of mail.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

In fact, until 1878, more Valentine’s cards were sent in the post each year than Christmas cards. However, just three years later in 1881, the Post Office issued its first public instruction to 'Post early for Christmas', to help manage the volume of festive mail.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

It took some time for Henry Cole's Christmas card idea to take root with the wider public.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

But in 1843 Henry Cole commissioned an artist friend to design the first Christmas card as a way of making his Christmas correspondance easier.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Who sent the first CHRISTMAS CARD?

Greeting cards were not new. Since Aloys Senefelder perfected lithography in 1796, merchants would send their customers best wishes for the new year.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Why do we eat CHRISTMAS CAKE?

These rich fruit cakes were a sensible celebratory food as they didn't spoil quickly, and could therefore be made in advance to have in ready for guests whenever they arrived, or could be taken on a journey to give as a gift, in days when travelling was a slow process. The fruitcake as we know it today evolved from plum cake recipes in England.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Finally, a small lighted candle is placed on top to symbolise Jesus Christ, Light of the World.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

A red ribbon is then tied around the centre of the orange as a reminder that Christ died for us all.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Fruit, nuts and sweets can then be attached to the cocktail sticks to represent the fruits of the Earth.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Each child is helped to take an orange (representing the World) and insert four cocktail sticks into it (representing the four seasons).

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Many churches and schools now hold Christingle services any time from Advent to the end of the Epiphany season.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The tradition was kept alive by the Moravian church and in the United Kingdom was adopted by the Children's Society in the 1950s as a way of raising awareness of their work.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

He asked them to relight them at home and place them in their windows to show the Light of Christ to passers by.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

What is CHRISTINGLE?

The first Christingle service was held in Marienborn in Moravia in 1747, when the pastor, John de Wattville, wanting to find a new way of telling the Christmas story to children, gave each child a lighted candle tied with a red ribbon.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

St Francis of Assisi (around 1220AD) promoted the use of carols to spread the Christmas message by translating songs sung in Latin into languages spoken by ordinary people in Europe for use in formal church services.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

By the late medieval period the singing of Christmas carols had become a tradition.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Why do we sing CAROLS at Christmas?

Singing to and about their gods was part of all pagan festivals, including the winter ones. When Christmas was established on the 25th December in the fourth century, the church initially tried to stop people singing these pagan songs, but then changed track, and decided to encourage the singing of Christian Christmas themed songs in their place.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Why are CANDLES a Christmas symbol?

Because Jesus is the "light of the world"! In the pre-Christian mid-winter festivals sun gods were worshipped, and the candles were a symbol of the needed light of the sun.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

What is BOXING DAY?

In medieval times, the day after Christmas churches used to distribute the money that had been collected in the "almsbox" (charity box) to the poor and needy. This evolved into the tradition of giving tradesmen a "box", meaning a gift or money, on the first day of the week after Christmas.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

A fifth candle is placed inside the Advent wreath. This candle is lit on Christmas Day. It is white, the color associated with angels and the birth of Jesus.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The rose candle, which symbolizes joy, is usually lit on the third Sunday.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The three purple candles in the Advent wreath symbolise hope, peace, and love. These candles are lit on the first, second, and fourth Sundays of Advent.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Candles symbolise the light of God coming into the world through the birth of His son, Jesus.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The green of the wreath speaks of the hope that Chrisitans have in God, the hope of newness, of renewal, of eternal life.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

What does the ADVENT WREATH represent?

The circle of the wreath reminds Chrisitans of God, His eternity and endless mercy, which has no beginning or end.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

But modern day Advent Calendars are often a countdown to Christmas devoid of anything to do with Jesus, and instead have pictures of cartoon charaters and contain chocolates.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Why do we have ADVENT CALANDARS?

They were designed to help children focus on the coming of Jesus by having a "window" to open each day from December 1st to December 24th with a picture behind it of something related to the nativity. "Jesse Trees" were used in this way too - see Christmas Decorations and Christmas Tress.


richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Displacing the winter songs that were traditionally sung in public with carols telling stories with Christian Christmas themes was also effective in spreading the message of Jesus, especially after Francis of Assissi had some translated out of Latin into languages spoken by the average person!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The nativity play was invented to teach people about the birth of Jesus in an entertaining and easy to understand way and really helped with the Christianisation of the 25th December.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

As Christmas began to rival Easter as the most important Christian festival an extended period of preparation was added to the church calendar called "Advent" (taken from the Latin for "arrival").

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The name "Christmas", taken from the Latin for "Mass of Christ", wasn't used in Britain until around 1043AD.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The church wanted to Christianise these practises, either to cover-over the fact that pagan religions were still out-stripping Christianity in popularity, or as a genuine attempt to win people over to Jesus.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

These festivals included the use of incense, candles and decorating buildings with evergreens, gift giving, feasting and drinking.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The 25th of December was chosen because that was the day, on or near the winter solstice, that all ancient religions celebrated the births of their various sun gods.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Also, we know that it is very unlikely Jesus was born in December because in the story of his birth given in the Bible it talks about sheep out on the open hillside and Mary and Joseph travelling to sign a census, things that would not take place in the wet and cold Judean winter months.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

It is not known when exactly Jesus was born - not the day, or the month, or even the year! There have been several big changes made to how dates were recorded throughout history, and as a result of these confusions we now calculate that Jesus was born sometime between 7 and 4 BC ("before Christ"!).

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

The first Christians didn't celebrate the birthday of Jesus; birthdays weren't considered a big deal in Jewish or early Christian culture. It was over one hundred years after the birth of Jesus that the church first suggested a solemn, respectful feast should be observed in honour of Jesus' birthday, and not until Julius 1st -who was pope from 337 to 352AD- that the date of 25th December was set for this "Feast of the Nativity".

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

What About Christmas?

Logically, it would make sense if Christmas had existed since the birth of Jesus, or at least since the resurrection of Jesus and the founding of the early Christian church. But, oh no! That would be far too easy!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

Hello! My name is David Holland and here I am with my lovely wife, Hae Sook. I'm the pastor of Richmond Park Church, which is on the corner of Palmerston Road and St Clements Road in Boscombe. We're a group of ordinary people who believe in an extraordinary God. We've put this website together to give you a taste of what we believe, what we do, and what we are like - enjoy looking around!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

of another reason

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

I want to know more about Christianity

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

I am looking for an After Schools Club.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

I am looking for a Parent & Toddler Group

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

I am an international student.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

I am looking for a church whilst on holiday in the area.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

I am looking for a permanent new church in Bournemouth.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

I am a member of RPC

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

I'm interested in this website because...

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK

If you have any further questions you'd like answered please email us.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Hello! My name is David Holland and here I am with my lovely wife, Hae Sook. I'm the pastor of Richmond Park Church, which is on the corner of Palmerston Road and St Clements Road in Boscombe. We're a group of ordinary people who believe in an extraordinary God. We've put this website together to give you a taste of what we believe, what we do, and what we are like - enjoy looking around!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. ~ Psalm 34:8

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

4. To give glory to God when we see him working in people's lives

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

3. To reach out to the needy and fulfil that need by prayer and practice.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

2. To see people set free from what binds them, and prevents them from becoming who God wants them to be.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Aims of the Prayer Surgery:
1. To see people come to a knowledge of God's love for each of them.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

You don't have to be a church member, everyone is welcome!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

On Wednedays from 10am until 2pm the church will be open for anyone to come in and have Mike and Hazel Aston pray with you.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

STARTING OCTOBER 2007
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" ~ Matthew 11:28

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Our leadership team is made up of our pastor, David Holland, elders Roger Tancock and Len Turner, and deacons Geof Pollard, Mike Bryan and Chris Self.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Our Drama Group prayer is: "We pray that the God of peace will equip us with all we need for doing his will and produce in us through the power of Christ all that is pleasing to him. And we commit to work at whatever we do with all our heart as though working exclusively for the Lord." (taken from Hebrews 13: 20-21 & Colossians 3:23).

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Since 2002 the Drama Group has also branched out into puppetry, starting modestly with hand-made felt puppets, but now boasting a collection of rod arm wide-mouth puppets (like in "The Muppets" or "Sesame Street") and our own "puppet theatre" to perform from. We are still working on mastering lip-synchronization at the same time as operating two puppet arms with the other hand - puppetry is more difficult than it looks!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

The Drama Group act out re-tellings of Bible stories and themes in short sketches with the aim of entertaining whilst presenting a memorable message. Drama can be a very effective way to get a point across, capturing people's imagination and reinforcing the words of a sermon. And for those of us acting it's great to be so actively involved in the life of the church and have an excuse to dress up and play with props! Even the most serious dramas usually dissolve into unprofessional laughter during rehearsal!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

"Whatever gift" and "various forms"... we are claiming this verse as motivation and mandate for our Drama Group and Puppet Team!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

"Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms..." (1 Peter 4: 10)

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Not unto us O Lord, not unto us, but to your Name be the glory. ~ Psalm 115:1

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Our times are a good mixture of seriousness and fun. We always have a good chat and often a good laugh - a good aid to joyful dancing. But whatever we do, our main aim is to lift up Jesus and bring glory to His Name.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

(4) Intercession - prayer dancing for particular topics involving spiritual warfare.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

3) Outreach - we are sometimes asked to dance at outside venues eg. Wimborne folk festival, or other churches

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

(2) Ministry - where the Lord gives us anointed dances to speak and minister into people's lives in a specific way.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

(1) Dancing in church to enhance the praise and worship. This is spontaneous according to what songs are sung.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

We are a group of ladies who meet each week to seek the Lord in dance. We have four specific areas:

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Obviously music in a church context is used to glorify God, to worship Our Heavenly Father. But what better medium to use when communicating with the Creator of All Things? The music is different every time. So is my expression. I feel grateful and positive, strong and defiant, weak and helpless, sad and remorseful. There is room in music to be honest with my God and let down the guard that I’ve constructed to hide my heart from all the pain in this world. And there is room for God to come to meet me and talk to me as if there were no one else around...

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Music has a very unique significance throughout the world in that it permeates every single nation and culture. I’ve yet to find a society where music does not exist in some form or other. It clearly has the power to draw communities together but also has a transcendental quality that reaches outside of the normal and the mundane. If you’re not sure what I’m talking about just think about ‘that special song’. Maybe it was playing the first time you fell in love, the first time you saw Eve in all her glorious beauty (or Adam riding to the rescue in his shining armour). Maybe it captures the nostalgia of your youth when you were invincible, eternally young and carefree. Even it might remind you of a tragic event in your life, a moment that shaped you irrevocably and although it brings back all those dark feelings and tears there is somehow a peace and a healing in the process. This doesn’t sound very religious does it? God gave man the gift of music for a specific purpose I’m sure.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

My name is Richie and I often lead the music side of things for RPC. I am lucky because my job is to play the guitar and sing loudly both of which I really enjoy doing. I am privileged to work with the keyboard talents of Aerin, way beyond her years in ability, Mike on vocals and brass who has a natural gift for harmony and the soaring melodies of Marilyn and Sarah on vocals.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Creche is provided every Sunday during the morning worship time, and there is a Sunday School every week, except for once a month when the children join us for a family service.

We follow normal child protection guidelines and all staff are CRB checked.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Our creche is run by Margaret King. Margaret says: One of the greatest honours that our Lord has bestowed on me is teaching his very youngest of children. He showed me exactly how he wanted his children taught. Firstly, he wanted them to be able to speak to him as soon as they could talk, and instead of saying "let's pray" the Lord taught me to say "let's speak to Jesus". Then we say a simple prayer with a drink and a biscuit so that the children learn to thank him for what he provides. Also he wanted a blanket laid on the floor so that the children could sit on it and be read to from the Bible and prayer books; he wanted them to learn action songs and colouring activites and have plenty of toys; and he wanted us to end creche for the day by holding hands in a circle so that we could thank Jesus for our time together, tell him anything we want to say, and ask Jesus to make anybody better who wasn't very well. It is such a joy and a blessing to hear a small child name the name of Jesus for the very first time. We hope the children grow up with a strong sense of God's love for them.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Still got questions? Email us now - we look forward to hearing from you!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

As well as our Sunday morning service, we meet to pray Sunday evenings in the church at 6.30pm. You don't need to be in a church or with a group of people to pray; praying is just talking to God and you can do it walking along the street, doing the housework, while fetching a coffee from the vending machine in the office... but sometimes it's really good to get together and have other people back-up your prayers.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Then someone from the leadership team, or sometimes a guest speaker from another church, will spend 30 to 40 minutes teaching us about what the Bible says and how that applies to our lives today. We have two BSL (British Sign Language for the deaf) signers in our church who interpret for our deaf members. Once a month the service will include taking Communion (also known as Holy Communion or the Eucharist). This is when Christians eat a piece of bread and drink a little bit of wine or red grape/currant juice as a symbolic reminder of Jesus' body being broken for us (the bread) and his blood spilt (the wine) when he died on the cross and how grateful and amazed we should be that he went through all that suffering to pay the price for our sins and reunite us with God the Father.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Richmond Park Church is what is sometimes known as a "happy clappy" church!! We do indeed sing our praise songs (modern hymns) along to the music of a guitar, keyboard, trombone, and drums, sometimes clapping along, and a couple of people even shake a tambourine! No organs or pews or stained glass windows for us! With have chairs set in rows, or sometimes in a big circle; an overhead projector beams the words of our songs onto a screen, we don't have hymn books; we don't have prayer books either - people pray out loud when they feel able to, from where they are standing or sitting. Sometimes some of the ladies dance to the songs, using expressive hand movements, or waving flags. Sometimes before the sermon a bunch of amateur dramatists will invade the stage to act out their five minute interpretation of a Bible story or theme! Sometimes they use puppets!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

On Sunday mornings we meet at 10.30am. There is a creche for the tiny tots, and Sunday School for the slightly older kids - except about once a month when we put on a shorter service with activties especially for the children and they sit in the main part of church all the time, instead of disappearing into the back room or upstairs. We stay behind in church for tea and coffee after our "family service". All the church folk that work with the kids are CRB (Criminal Record Bureau) checked and cleared.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

The "Good News After Schools Club" for 7 to 11 year olds meets on Fridays at 3.30pm until 5.00pm. The aim of the club is to teach children about the love of God and respect for one another. Creative activities include painting, drawing, making things, cooking and fun and games. During the summer months there are additional outdoor activities.

We follow normal child protection guidelines and all staff are CRB checked.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

We welcome news, updates and general chat from our ex-students!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

We work closely with Friends International South Wessex.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Our main activity for students is our International Student Meal Evening (ISME), held every other Thursday at 6pm, to which you are warmly invited. The evening includes food, a short English language session, a time of worship and short message about the Christian faith.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

As Bournemouth is a centre for language schools we have the privilege of meeting students from all over the world, and because of this we are happy to provide opportunities for friendship and language learning. It is our great joy to have welcomed many, many international students to the church.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

We are aware that during our get-togethers lasting relationships have been formed among the parents and the children are often asking them when the next "toy time at that church" is!

We follow normal child protection guidelines and all staff are CRB checked.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

We warmly invite you to our Parents & Toddlers morning, "Step By Step", Tuesdays term time between 9.30-11.30am.This is a great time to come together in a secure, relaxed and informal atmosphere where parents and carers can unwind as their children enjoy playing with toys, creating different things, sliding down the slide, singing and learning to relate to one another at a young age

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

So now you know!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Because of it's Celtic history it is only popular in the UK, and the USA and Canada, taken there by the Irish who emigrated to America in their tens of thousands after the 1845 potato famine.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

By the 9th century, Samhain traditions were still going strong, so the church tried to take-over the evening of the 31st of October itself by making it another feast day, "All Hallows Even" (evening) and this and Samhain (remember, it's pronounced something like "sow-een") merged to become "Halloween".

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

The date was chosen on purpose to rival Samhain and involved similar traditions, including dressing up as a saint, an angel or a devil and joining a parade, with the aim of weaning people off of the pagan festival.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

These were usually local festivals, though the martyrdom of some of the apostles were more widely celebrated. Pope Gregory III (731-741AD) decided to have one day a year in the church calendar to celebrate all the martyrs or saints, instead of lots of different regional saint's days, and this was set as the 1st of November, and known as the "Feast of All Saints" or "All Saint's Day" or "All Hallows Day" ("hallow" is an old English word for saint or holy person).

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Meanwhile, after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus in 30AD, the "new" controversial religion, Christianity, spread to Asia Minor, Greece and to Rome, and so through the Roman Empire, largely as a result of persecuted Christians having to flee Jerusalem. As Christians were killed for preaching about Jesus and standing up for their beliefs, those surviving chose to commemorate the death of these martyrs or saints by celebrating "martyrs days" or "saints days".

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

They also left out treats, like cakes, as a peace offering. When the Romans came to Britain (successfully in 43AD after failed attempts in 55BC and 54BC) they added the traditions of their own harvest festival, "Pomona", to Samhain, such as bobbing for apples in water barrels and putting nuts in the fire to watch where they jump to.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

People tried to protect themselves from attack by disguising themselves as witches, devils and ghosts, and carved grotesque faces in things like pumpkins, which they kept illuminated by candlelight, to ward off evil spirits.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

marking the beginning of winter and the first day of the Celtic new year, celebrated on the evening of the 31st of October. The Druids (Celtic priests) also believed that on this day (exactly between the Autumnal Equinox and the Winter Solstice) the barriers between the human and supernatural worlds were broken, allowing demons, witches and lost souls to harass the living and play tricks on them.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

What About Halloween?

Halloween was originally called "Samhain" -a Gaelic word pronounced "sow-in" (in Ireland), or "sow-een" (in Wales), or "sav-en" (in Scotland) - meaning "summer's end." The Celtic culture had established itself throughout the British Isles from approx. 600 BC to 50 AD, and Samhain was an ancient Celtic type of harvest festival,

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. ~ Matthew 6:19-21
richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

In October 2007 we will be starting a "Prayer Surgery" on Wednesday between 10am and 2pm at the church, meaning anyone can drop in and have someone pray with them.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Beaufort Road Practice
21 Beaufort Road
West Southbourne
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH6 5AJ
Tel: 01202 433081

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Rejoice! I will say it again, rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Phil 4 richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

In October 2007 we will be starting a "Prayer Surgery" on Wednesday 10-2 at the church, meaning anyone can drop in and have someone pray with them.richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Holdenhurst Road Practice
199 Holdenhurst Road
Springbourne
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH8 8DE
Tel: 0844 4771850

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Providence Practice
12 Walpole Road
Boscombe
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH1 4HA
Tel: 01202 395195

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Dr Moreland's Practice
1-3 The Crescent
Boscombe
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH1 4EX
Tel: 01202 393755

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Adeline Road Practice
4 Adeline Road
Boscombe
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH5 1EE
Tel: 01202 309421

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

GPs in the Boscombe area:

Boscombe Manor Medical Practice
40 Florence Road
Boscombe
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH5 1HQ
Tel: 01202 303013

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

nhs website for dentists

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Southbourne Dental Practice
99 Southbourne Road
Southbourne
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH6 3QN
Tel: 01202 425616

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Boscombe East Family Dental Practice
1118 Christchurch Road
Boscombe East
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH7 6DT
Tel: 01202 426895

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Brandon
201 Holdenhurst Road
Springbourne
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH8 8DE
Tel: 01202 557283

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

The Dental Practice
454 Christchurch Road
Boscombe
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH1 4BA
Tel: 01202 393677

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Walpole Road Practice
14 Walpole Road
Boscombe
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH1 4HA
Tel: 01202 392202

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Boscombe Dental Health Centre (Griffiths, R Halderthay & Prynne)
740 Christchurch Road
Boscombe
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH7 6BZ
Tel: 01202 397020

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Wootton Lodge
717 Christchurch Road
Boscombe
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH7 6AF
Tel: 01202 394587

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Dentists in the Boscombe area:

Beechwood Dental Practice
8 Beechwood Avenue
Boscombe
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH5 1LX
Tel: 01202 397074


richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

BOURNEMOUTH DEAF CLUB
Lockyer Hall,
27a Morley Road,
Pokesdown,
Bournemouth,
Dorset
BH5 2JJ
Tel:(01202)418888,
Fax: (01202) 418888
http://members.lycos.co.uk/bmthdeafclub/

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Local Councillors

Our area is covered by three council wards: Boscombe East, Boscombe West and East Cliff & Springbourne.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

This is the main office for Bournemouth CAB, based in the centre of Bournemouth, but they also give advice at different times from local libraries or other outreach centres. Telephone for further details.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Bournemouth Citizens Advice Bureau
The West Wing
Town Hall
Bourne Avenue
Bournemouth
BH2 6DX
Tel - ADVICE LINE - 08444 994105
Tel - administration/appointments - 01202 290967
www.adviceguide.org.uk

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

The Town Hall is open 8.30am - 5.15pm Monday to Thursday, 8.30am - 4.45 on Fridays.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Bournemouth Council
Town Hall
Bourne Avenue
Bournemouth
BH2 6DY
Tel: 01202 451451 (main switchboard)
Fax: 01202 451000
Minicom: 01202 454728
Email: enquiries@bournemouth.gov.ukThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
http://www.bournemouth.gov.uk

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Boscombe, Springbourne and Pokesdown are all part of Bournemouth Borough Council. Bournemouth Town Hall is located in the centre of Bournemouth.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Bournemouth Adult Learning
Ensbury Avenue
Bournemouth
Tel: 01202 451945

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Bournemouth & Poole College
Lansdowne Campus
Meyrick Road
Bournemouth
BH1 3JJ
01202 205205
http://www.thecollege.co.uk
email enquiries@thecollege.co.uk

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Adult Education (Lifelong learning):

Contact The College or the council's Adult Learning for course information. Many courses are run in local centres, such as the BCCA in Haviland Road, Boscombe.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

We hope you find the following local information and links helpful. For transport in and out of Boscombe see How do I find you? If you any questions about anything Boscombe related, feel free to email us and we will do our best to answer or point you in the direction of someone else who can!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Sun 26 Aug Family Service: There will be a morning service for all the family on 26 Aug. The theme will be creation. There will be drama sketches, bible readings, songs, dancing by the dance group and fun and games too. There will be coffees, teas and biscuits before the service at 10:30am. The service will begin at 11.00am. So come along and join in the fun!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Famous sports personalities talk about Jesus! Re:Jesus Sports Page

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Interviews with Christian scientists

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Margaret's Story: I used to go to church as a child and in my mid twenties I even led Sunday school, but then I dropped out of church for a number of years. When I was 46 I went away on a healing retreat and there I learnt that there was a difference between going to church and knowing God personally. I knew he was real because he took away all the hurts of the past and no-one else and nothing else could have done that. Since that time I have not had to carry around all the worries of the past and now feel a different person.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Michelle's Story: I grew up being told that God was a fairytale made-up to give answers to superstitious people who felt a need for an emotional and psychological crutch. I didn't hear anybody oppose this "modern" view until I went to university when I was 18. There I met my first Christians, and these weren't just church goers! They were people who talked out loud and without embarrassment about Jesus and the Bible, but in every other way seemed quite normal and well adjusted. Imagine! Intelligent people in this day and age still believing in a God! My curiosity aroused, I decided to attend a meeting that was being advertised on campus entitled "Sceptics Anonymous". I thought it was going to be a debate in a crowded lecture theatre where I could hide in the back row, but it turned out to be me, four other students and the university chaplain in a cosy room. Five months and many questions later that chaplain led me in an awkward, mumbled prayer in which I said sorry to God for the things I've done wrong and asked Jesus into my life, unsure if it would make any difference but knowing this was the only way to find out. That was in February 1993. I can confirm inviting Jesus into your life does make a big difference!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

So I went to this baptism and as the worship started it all felt a bit strange because this was a modern church and my vision of church at the time was old fashioned traditional, pews and church organ church. But this was different. This was a lively all dancing, all singing church with a band not an organ. As the worship went on, I somehow (don’t know how) joined in with the worship and closed my eyes. After a while, in my mind, I had a picture of Jesus and I heard a voice in my head saying ‘Come, follow me’. I just dismissed the picture and the voice as I thought it was just my mind playing tricks on me. When the worship was over, the sermon started and during the sermon, I heard those same three words again ‘Come, follow me’. After the sermon, the church pastor said ‘If anyone wants to become a Christian, then come to the front’. So I quickly prayed my first prayer asking if these words and visions were really from God. Shortly after I prayed, I heard that same voice and saw that same vision of Jesus as before. The voice said ‘Yes Come, follow me’. So I went forward, got prayed for and became a Christian. That was 9 years ago and I’m still a Christian today. It hasn’t always been an easy 9 years but I know that God has been there for me and has helped me through both the good and bad times.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Mark's Story: Before I became a Christian, I was just a normal teenager into girls, sex, etc. I had no contact with any Christians and didn’t really think much about life and God. However, when I attended college, there was this Christian in my class who I got very friendly with. Halfway through the college year, his girlfriend was getting baptised. He invited me to her baptism and I said yes just to keep him happy and I suppose I was a bit curious about God and Church at the time but always put it at the back of my mind and denied it.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Sylvia's Story: I was a church-going Anglican for many years; I was also a heavy smoker. Because of this I went to a therapist, to get help giving up. He asked what my interest were and I mentioned that my church activites were important to me. He told me he was a Christian and asked if I knew Jesus. I said, yes, I know He is the Son of God, but he persisted in asking did I KNOW Him, and I knew I didn't, not in the way my therapist was describing. He asked me if I wanted to really know Jesus; I replied "yes", and my journey of discovery began. A few weeks later I was baptised in the Holy Spirit. A few weeks further on, and although I had cut down on smoking I had not given up - and then God healed me: he took away all craving and desire for cigerettes and I didn't suffer any withdrawl symptoms. I never smoked again - when God does something it is completely dealt with. I was 58 years old when I came into a living relationship with the Lord. You are never too old!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Time went on and I didn't go to church too often, but one day I heard a voice (no I wasn't going nuts) say to me very softly as I was working “Roger I died for you”, and I understood what I had heard about Easter: I understood that Jesus died on a cross for my sin, and that He wanted me to hand all those sins, the bad things I had done, over to Him, so that I could be forgiven. I had heard that to become a 'Christian' one had to pray in a certain way, but me being me, I just said “If you want me, take me!” And God did and my whole life was changed. If you want to know the rest of the story, come to the church and ask for me!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Then I was 'persuaded' to attend one of these services. I was not planning to take part in any of it, but in the audience (or congregation) was a young lady whose face was sort of shining as the Pastor (like a vicar or priest) was speaking about Jesus. I had a good job with good money, my own home, a wife, and three kids - what more could I want? Still, something was missing: I didn't have what that lady had! So I thought I would give this church 'thing' a try.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Our eldest son was in the Boys Brigade and they would often have church parades where they would march around the streets with a band and banners, and end up in the Baptist church. My wife used to go to support our son, but I would do something on the car or go to the pub...

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Roger's Story: Its funny really, as I thought I was pretty good. Of course I had messed about a bit as all young guys did and still do, but I worked hard to keep my family, in fact sometimes I worked every day of the week. Most nights were spent in the pub, while my wife stayed at home looking after the kids, after all I worked hard, so I was entitled to relax with my mates.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Email us with any questions, comments or news! If you wish to send an attachment please use your own email account and send to rpcbournemouth@googlemail.com We look forward to hearing from you!

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

Richmond Park Church
Palmerston Road
Boscombe
Bournemouth
UK
BH1 4HP

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

If you get off at Bournemouth Rail Station, Yellow Buses 28a and 28b go to Boscombe Bus Station. Walk around the back of the multi-storey carpark and Sovereign Shopping Centre, to the left, along Centenary Way, cross at pedestrian lights, turn to the left, head towards petrol station across the road, turn right into Palmerston Road. Richmond Park Church is on the corner at the end of Palmerston Road.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

The nearest rail station is Pokesdown Station. Cross at pedestrian lights to bus stop outside pub. All buses that pass this stop will take you to Boscombe Bus Station.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

From Lymington / New Milton / Highcliffe Wilts & Dorset "red" buses 121, 122, 123, or 124 - get off at Boscombe Bus Station. Walk around the back of the multi-storey carpark and Sovereign Shopping Centre, to the left, along Centenary Way, cross at pedestrian lights, turn to the left, head towards petrol station across the road, turn right into Palmerston Road. Richmond Park Church is on the corner at the end of Palmerston Road.

richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

From Christchurch, Yellow Buses 1a, 1b, or 1c or Wilts & Dorset buses "More" m2 or "red" 121, 122, 123 or 124 - get off at Boscombe Bus Station. Walk around the back of the multi-storey carpark and Sovereign Shopping Centre, to the left, along Centenary Way, cross at pedestrian lights, turn to the left, head towards petrol station across the road, turn right into Palmerston Road. Richmond Park Church is on the corner at the end of Palmerston Road.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk an evangelical pentecostal church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset UK

From Poole / Parkstone / Branksome / Westbourne get Wilts & Dorset "red" bus limited stop service X3, "More" bus m2, or Yellow Buses 1b, or 1c - get off at stop opposite McDonalds in Boscombe. Carry straight on from bus stop opposite McDonalds, down Palmerston Road, past the petrol station, and past a carpark - Richmond Park Church is on the corner at the end of Palmerston Road.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

From Bournemouth University / Wallisdown get Yellow Buses 6a, 6b, or 6c as far as Lansdowne then change to Wilts & Dorset "More" bus m2, or "red" buses X3, 121, 122, 123, or 124 or Yellow Buses 1a,1b, or 1c - get off at stop opposite McDonalds in Boscombe.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

From Bournemouth University / Wallisdown get Yellow Buses 6a, 6b, or 6c as far as Lansdowne then change to Wilts & Dorset "More" bus m2, or "red" buses X3, 121, 122, 123, or 124 or Yellow Buses 1a,1b, or 1c - get off at stop opposite McDonalds in Boscombe.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

From Bournemouth University / Wallisdown get Yellow Buses 6a, 6b, or 6c as far as Lansdowne then change to Wilts & Dorset "More" bus m2, or "red" buses X3, 121, 122, 123, or 124 or Yellow Buses 1a,1b, or 1c - get off at stop opposite McDonalds in Boscombe.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

From Winton get Yellow buses 4a, 4b, 5a or 5b from anywhere along Wimborne Road (in the direction of Bournemouth) as far as Lansdowne then change to Wilts & Dorset "More" bus m2, or "red" buses X3, 121, 122, 123, or 124 or Yellow Buses 1a,1b, or 1c - get off at stop opposite McDonalds in Boscombe.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

From Charminster get Wilts & Dorset "More" bus m1 or Yellow Buses 5a or 5b from anywhere along Charminster Road (in the direction of Bournemouth), as far as Lansdowne then change to "More" bus m2, or "red" buses X3, 121, 122, 123, or 124 or Yellow Buses 1a,1b, or 1c - get off at stop opposite McDonalds in Boscombe.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

From Bournemouth Square / Lansdowne get Wilts & Dorset "More" bus m2 and "red" buses X3, 121, 122, 123, or 124 or Yellow Buses 1a, 1b, or 1c - get off at stop opposite McDonalds in Boscombe.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

If coming into Boscombe on the A35 from Christchurch/Lyndhurst/Southampton direction, as you are sent to the right to by-pass the pedestrian area, go left at the first roundabout and right at the second roundabout. This takes you into Palmerston Road. Parking instructions as above.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

If you are coming into Bournemouth from the Poole direction, stay on the A35, following signs to Boscombe. Stay on the Christchurch Road into Boscombe and when you are taken to the left round the corner by McDonalds (to by-pass the pedestrian area) go straight on at the roundabout into Palmerston Road. Parking instructions as above.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

If you are approaching Bournemouth on the A338 from Salisbury/Ringwood/Southampton direction, come off at the slip road directed to "Football - Kings Park" and take the last exit off the mini roundabout. Continue up to the traffic lights. Turn left down Ashley Road, follow to end and turn right at roundabout, and right at next roundabout. This takes you into Palmerston Road. There is a "pay and display" carpark on the left, shortly past the petrol station. Alternatively, you may find unrestricted street parking in St Clements Road (to the left at the end of Palmerston Road). Richmond Park Church is at the end of Palmerston Road on the corner.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Our full address is:

Richmond Park Church, Palmerston Road, Boscombe,

Bournemouth BH1 4HP.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Richmond Park Church is in Boscombe, at the far end of Palmerston Road, on the corner with St Clements Road and opposite the footbridge over the railway line from Grove Road / South Road. It is a five minute walk from McDonalds.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

For those of you who want to learn more about the Bible, God, or get praying, there is a Ladies Meeting at Hae Sook's home on Monday mornings, and the church breaks up into four smaller groups and meets in people's lounges on Tuesday evenings for what we call our "Care Groups".
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

As Bournemouth is a centre for language schools, Richmond Park Church opens up every other Thursday evening to feed students who are in the UK to learn English; we put on a meal and a short "fun" English lesson, and students from all sorts of different countries get to meet and make friends.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

There's also the "Good News" after schools club for 7 to 11 year olds on Friday afternoons, 3.45 to 5.30pm.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Richmond Park Church also provides a Parents & Toddlers session with lots of fun toys and enough supervision to allow the parents/guardians to relax and have a chat over a coffee while the little'uns play - thats term time on Tuesday mornings 9.30-11.30am.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

As well as our Sunday morning service, we meet to pray Sunday evenings in the church at 6.30pm. You don't need to be in a church or with a group of people to pray; praying is just talking to God and you can do it walking along the street, doing the housework, while fetching a coffee from the vending machine in the office... but sometimes it's really good to get together and have other people back-up your prayers.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Then someone from the leadership team, or sometimes a guest speaker from another church, will spend 30 to 40 minutes teaching us about what the Bible says and how that applies to our lives today. We have two BSL (British Sign Language for the deaf) signers in our church who interpret for our deaf members. Once a month the service will include taking Communion (also known as Holy Communion or the Eucharist). This is when Christians eat a piece of bread and drink a little bit of wine or red grape/currant juice as a symbolic reminder of Jesus' body being broken for us (the bread) and his blood spilt (the wine) when he died on the cross and how grateful and amazed we should be that he went through all that suffering to pay the price for our sins and reunite us with God the Father.
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Richmond Park Church is what is sometimes known as a "happy clappy" church!! We do indeed sing our praise songs (modern hymns) along to the music of a guitar, keyboard, trombone, and drums, sometimes clapping along, and a couple of people even shake a tambourine! No organs or pews or stained glass windows for us! With have chairs set in rows, or sometimes in a big circle; an overhead projector beams the words of our songs onto a screen, we don't have hymn books; we don't have prayer books either - people pray out loud when they feel able to, from where they are standing or sitting. Sometimes some of the ladies dance to the songs, using expressive hand movements, or waving flags. Sometimes before the sermon a bunch of amateur dramatists will invade the stage to act out their five minute interpretation of a Bible story or theme! Sometimes they use puppets!
richmondparkchurch.org.uk

On Sunday mornings we meet at 10.30am. There is a creche for the tiny tots, and Sunday School for the slightly older kids - except about once a month when we put on a shorter service with activties especially for the children and they sit in the main part of church all the time, instead of disappearing into the back room or upstairs. We stay behind in church for tea and coffee after our "family service". All the church folk that work with the kids are CRB (Criminal Record Bureau) checked and cleared.
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At Richmond Park Church we are not ashamed to be uncompromising Christians. We believe that God created the world; we believe that the words and stories in the Bible are true and God-given; we believe that Jesus is the Son of God, that his mother Mary was a virgin, and that when he died on the cross he paid the price for all our sins, all our failures, all our mistakes; we believe Jesus rose from the grave -literally was resurrected in flesh- to show that he was the Son of God and could and did conquer death and sin. This means that when we invite Jesus into our lives he forgives us for all the things we've done wrong and re-connects us with God, Our Father. Not only that, but to make sure we don't strive and struggle to do the right thing by obeying laws and regulations, when we invite Jesus into our lives, when we become Christians, he gives us the Holy Spirit, an internal guide and inspiration to help us do the right thing, not motivated by guilt or fear, but motivated by our love for God and the knowledge that he loves us. And we believe that one day Jesus is going to return to this earth.
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The church is a great place to grow in your faith as it means at least once a week you are taking time out to:
(1) focus on worshipping (showing our respect and love for) God and getting to know him more intimately by singing praise songs to him, during which we can often sense God's presence with us, which is amazing;
(2) hear God's words taught from the Bible, learn the significance of those words and how they apply to our everyday lives;
(3) pray for other people and situations and receive prayer for yourself;
(4) develope the gifts and talents God has given you in a nurturing environment and support and encourage one another.
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Giving your life to Jesus is just the start of your Christian journey; we all need to grow in our faith and understanding of God's ways and over the years we change for the better as our motivation and plans fall more and more into line with God's motivation and plans.
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You can be a Christian without going to church, but it makes life harder for you. God designed us to be inter-dependent, meaning we are at our best when we work together, rather than when we try to go it alone; we all have different strengths and weaknesses and can compliment and support one another. There are lots of things in life - stresses, problems, temptations - that try to lure Christians away from being true to their faith and God. If you belong to a church you've got your "church family" to encourage, look out for, and care for you; and they've got you on their team too.
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Going to church doesn't make you a Christian, not even if you've gone to church every Sunday since the day you were born! You can only become a Christian by personally choosing to invite Jesus into your life as your Lord and Saviour. As a Christian, spending time with God on your own (in Bible study and prayer and quiet thought) is important as you get to know someone better if you spend some quality one-to-one time with them. But church is important too.
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We hope you find the following local information and links helpful. For transport in and out of Boscombe see How do I find you? If you any questions about anything Boscombe related, feel free to email us and we will do our best to answer or point you in the direction of someone else who can!

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If you're not already a Christian you may want to go to church to see what Christians get up to there, and soak in the atmosphere of the singing, praying and teaching from the Bible.
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Still got questions? Email us now - we look forward to hearing from you!
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In many ways it's sad that Christ's church has split into denominations at all; that not the way it was meant to be. There are different denominations because Christians disagree about the importance and significance of various things. For instance, at Richmond Park Church we believe in full adult baptism, that is to say, you get baptised when you are old enough to make up your own mind that it's all true and that you want to give your life to Jesus and become a Christian - and then we dunk your entire body in a pool of water that is set into the stage in our church building! You may have automatically undergone a C of E baptism, getting a cross of water marked out on your forehead at some point. It's sad that we have spilt off into so many different denominations or factions, squabbling and disagreeing about secondary issues, there's no excuse for it. But it's extremely encouraging when the different churches in Bournemouth work together, when we remember our priorities: Jesus Christ came to save us all from a life cut-off from God, and get us back on-line with Him, and churches exist to worship God and introduce people to Jesus richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Does this all sound a bit muddled and confused?? Sometimes it's difficult to explain things about faith in a clear and concise way! You can read plenty more about what it means to be a Christian at New Christian UK or New Christian Life Ministries. richmondparkchurch.org.uk

We are sometimes called "born again" Christians. This is from a chapter in the Bible (chapter 3 of John's gospel)where Jesus explains that you can't just drift in to becoming a Christian; you're not a Christian just because your parents are or because you were christened or because you went to Sunday school. There's only one way to truly become a Christian and that's by you choosing for yourself to invite Jesus into your life. When you do this you get the spirit of God living in you and you are no longer just a physical body, you've got a spiritual life with God too. You've been "born again" of the spirit.richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Richmond Park Church is described as an "evangelical pentecostal" church, which basically means we put emphasis on telling people about the good news of how we can be put right with God through Jesus, and the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians to help us do this and in other ways demonstrate God's concern and interest in the everyday lives of people.

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Richmond Park Church does not belong to any denomination; we are not C of E, Methodist or Baptist. This doesn't mean we are freakish and weird! We are not part of any denomination because we are trying to steer clear of ideas and beliefs that have crept in to Christianity over the hundreds of years since Jesus was resurrected, ideas and beliefs that take us away from the simplicity and guidelines of the Bible.

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We hope to see you at Richmond Park Church soon!
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If you have any further questions you'd like answered please email us.

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Hello! My name is David Holland and I'm the pastor of Richmond Park Church, which is on the corner of Palmerston Road and St Clements Road in Boscombe. We're a group of ordinary people who believe in an extraordinary God. We've put this website together to give you a taste of what we believe, what we do, and what we are like - enjoy looking around!richmondparkchurch.org.uk

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Colossians 3:13richmondparkchurch.org.uk

“[The Narrow and Wide Gates] "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” Matthew 7:13-14richmondparkchurch.org.uk

“The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights. For the director of music. On my stringed instruments.” Habakkuk 3:19richmondparkchurch.org.uk

“Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. For a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night.” Psalm 90: 2,4richmondparkchurch.org.uk

“so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:17-19richmondparkchurch.org.uk

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11richmondparkchurch.org.uk

“Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.” 1 Chronicles 29:11richmondparkchurch.org.uk

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1richmondparkchurch.org.uk

so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. Hebrews 9:28richmondparkchurch.org.uk

'Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me"' Mathew 16:24richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Let us give glory to God! He is able to make you stand firm in your faith, according to the good news I preach about Jesus Christ. ~ 1Corinthians 16:25richmondparkchurch.org.uk

You must repent and be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins: and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ~ Acts 2:38richmondparkchurch.org.uk

If you confess your sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive you your sins and purify you from all unrighteousness. ~ 1 John 1:9richmondparkchurch.org.uk

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Proverbs 9:10 richmondparkchurch.org.uk

He so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. ~ John 3:16richmondparkchurch.org.uk

He demonstrated his own love for you in this: while you were still a sinner, Christ died for you. ~ Romans 5:8richmondparkchurch.org.uk

..when a believing person prays, great things happen.
~ James 5:16richmondparkchurch.org.uk

The Lord is good and his love endures for ever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. ~ Psalm 100:5 richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Isaiah 53: 18 & 19 'Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert'richmondparkchurch.org.uk

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. ~ Ps28:7richmondparkchurch.org.uk

"If you'll hold on to me for dear life," says God, "I'll get you out of any trouble.I'll give you the best of care if you'll only get to know and trust me. Call me and I'll answer, be at your side in bad times, I'll rescue you, then throw you a party. I'll give you a long life, give you a long drink of salvation!" (Psalm 91v14-16)
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Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty. (John 6v35)
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He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah. - Ephesians Chpt 2 v 5-6
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How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! ~ 1John3:1 richmondparkchurch.org.uk

I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever. I will praise you for ever for what you have done: in your name I will hope, for your name is good. ~ Ps 52:8-9richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. ~ Ps 34:8richmondparkchurch.org.uk

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. ~ Psalm 28:7richmondparkchurch.org.uk

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech... Psalm 19:1-2 richmondparkchurch.org.uk

The mission statement of RPC is to Love God and be His discples and to Love others and make disciples. Our aim is to help all who believe in Jesus Christ to love God with all their hearts, souls and minds and to love others, particularly those who do not yet know God in the same way that He has loved us and thus with the anointing of the Holy Spirit to enable them to become followers of Jesus also. (Matthew 22 v 37/44 and 28 v19)richmondparkchurch.org.uk

His ascension to the right hand of the Father, His personal return in power and glory...in the ministry of the Holy Spirit...His gifts and graces and in the spiritual unity of all believers in Our Lord Jesus Christ. richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Richmond Park is a charismatic evangelical church which is not linked to any denomination or house church stream but is a member of the Evangelical Alliance. We believe the Bible to be the only infallible authoritative word of God..that there is - one God eternal existent in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirirt... in the Deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, His virgin birth, his sinless life, his miracles, his vicarious death and his bodily resurrection. richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Richmond Park was one of the centres of renewal in the area, many people coming into the church being baptised in the Spirit, built up in their faith and moving on to serve churches nearer their homes. As is the case with all the churches in Boscombe many of our members travel into the area to go to church. God has often reminded us, however, that we are to be a "church in the community" so we are continually seeking ways to bring the life and light of God into Boscombe and also the areas where we live. richmondparkchurch.org.uk

As the church grew in size it moved to a hall in Charnminster Road URC (since demolished) and then on to Nortoft Road Day Centre in 1984. In 1985 we bought the Old Citadel in Boscombe and began the mammoth task of renovating the building.richmondparkchurch.org.uk

From the early days the church was called to be a "church in the community" reaching people with the gospel and bringing the kingdom of God into the area through lives submitted to the Lordship of Christ. Freedom in worship and allowing the Holy Spirit to do his work were the God given emphasis from the start.richmondparkchurch.org.uk

The church started in 1981, meeting together in Dave Holland's house in Richmond Park Avenue (hence the name Richmond Park Church). This was in the days of charismatic renewal in this country when many house fellowships sprung up, God began drawing people into the fellowship and baptising them in his Holy Spirit.richmondparkchurch.org.uk

Looking for a vibrant, gospel-based church in Boscombe, Bournemouth? Richmond Park Church is an evangelical pentecostal church, on the corner of Palmerston Road and St Clements Road. Come and join us for morning worship at 10.30am on Sundays! We also run an after schools club, parent and toddlers group, and an international student meal evening.richmondparkchurch.org.uk