History
Building Life. Exploring Faith. Together.
1946–1950
The Beginning: A Vision is Born
The story of Perry Beeches Baptist Church began on 7 December 1946, when the church building was officially opened by Mrs. J. Alfred Froggatt. The dedication service was conducted by Reverend A. J. Klaiber, supported by Reverend J. Isaiah Jones.
The first pastor, Reverend Lloyd J. Harding, served from 1947 to 1950. During his three-year ministry, he established the diaconate, formed the choir, and recruited several teachers—many from Wales—who were then working in local schools. Reverend Harding’s early leadership helped set the spiritual and organisational foundation for what would become a lasting ministry in the Great Barr area.
1950–1969
A Season of Steadfastness
Following Reverend Harding’s departure, the church experienced a short period of interregnum (1950–1953). During this time, Mr. V. Theo Williams, a lay preacher and chairman of the deacons, worked diligently to nurture the congregation and maintain the life of the fellowship.
In 1953, Reverend A. K. Horsington was appointed pastor, leading the church faithfully for sixteen years. His ministry was marked by warmth, dedication, and community spirit. Reverend Horsington retired in 1969 due to ill health but left behind a congregation that had grown in faith, unity, and purpose.
1970–1984
Growth and Diversity
Reverend G. Alex Potts became pastor in 1970, guiding the church through an important era of change. In 1971, Perry Beeches Baptist Church celebrated its Silver Jubilee, marking 25 years of service to the local community. This milestone coincided with a demographic shift in the area, as Great Barr and Perry Beeches became home to a more diverse and multicultural population. The church embraced this change, welcoming new members from various backgrounds and cultures—a defining moment in its history.
After Reverend Potts’ ministry ended in 1974, the church entered another period of interregnum. For a decade (1974–1984), Mr. Alan Taylor, Captain of the Boys’ Brigade, alongside the deacons, ensured that worship and community life continued with dedication and faithfulness.
1986–2013
Rebuilding and Revival
The next major chapter began in 1986, with the induction of Pastor Ray Mutter, whose leadership would span 27 years. Pastor Mutter was instrumental in reshaping both the physical and spiritual landscape of Perry Beeches Baptist Church.
Under his leadership:
- The redesign and construction of a new church building were completed and officially opened on 12 June 1993.
- The church celebrated its Golden Jubilee in 1996, marking 50 years of ministry and service.
Pastor Ray was widely respected as a visionary leader—a passionate preacher and committed builder—whose ministry solidified the church’s foundation for generations to come. He retired in 2013, leaving a strong, faithful congregation and a clear path for the future.
2013–2022
Renewal Realignment & structure
In 2013, Pastor Owen Uriah was appointed to lead Perry Beeches Baptist Church into a new era. Upon arrival, he presented a strategic and Spirit-led plan to revitalise the church’s structure and purpose.
The Vision 2013 initiative focused on empowering individuals, strengthening families, and developing the church’s administrative and financial systems. It called for excellence, training, and personal growth within every ministry—ensuring that the church functioned effectively both spiritually and practically.
Over the following years, many of these goals were achieved, but Pastor Uriah identified the need for deeper accountability and consistent development. This reflection led to the creation of Vision 2020.
2020
Vision 2020: Building on Strong Foundations
“The steps of a righteous man are ordered by the Lord.”
Vision 2020 was designed to strengthen the internal framework of the church—focusing on clarity, training, and structure across three essential areas:
- Operational: The practical workings of the church.
- Organisational: Financial management and administration.
- Ministerial: Spiritual growth, discipleship, and outreach.
The goal was not dramatic change, but steady progress. Pastor Uriah emphasised clarity of roles, leadership accountability, and the pursuit of excellence in every area of ministry.
When the global pandemic struck, these foundations proved vital. The church adapted swiftly through the Zoom platform, allowing services, prayer meetings, and Bible studies to continue seven days a week. In a time of global uncertainty, PBBC’s attendance and engagement actually grew. The congregation remained connected, encouraged, and spiritually nourished—a testimony to the church’s resilience and faith.
2022
Vision 2022: Expanding the Mission
As the world emerged from the pandemic, Pastor Uriah introduced Vision 2022, reaffirming the church’s mission statement:
“Building Foundations and Developing Futures!”
To establish a multi-functional, multi-faceted fellowship, empowering individuals to discover and activate their unique purpose and potential. Working together to develop and rebuild our community through the unifying power and love of Jesus Christ.
Vision 2022 outlined a three-pronged approach to growth and community transformation:
- Charity Status:
Formalising the church’s structure to access funding, partnerships, and support for long-term sustainability and outreach. - New Trustees:
Recruiting trustees with professional expertise to strengthen governance while preserving the church’s spiritual heart. - A Community Hub:
Redeveloping the church hall into a vibrant, seven-day-a-week community centre—complete with a café, private rooms, seminar space, and family-friendly facilities. The goal: to create a warm, professional, and welcoming environment where faith meets community.
Pastor Owen stepped down in December 2022
2023
Pastor Tracey Sweet
January 2023, Perry Beeches Baptist Church introduces Pastor Tracey Sweet as the new pastor.