Articles for Life Church

Founded by Bryn Jones during the Charismatic Restoration movement, the church began its journey by merging three smaller congregations. Originally known to locals as "Church House," the ministry eventually adopted the name Abundant Life Church, a title it held during a period of massive expansion under the leadership of Paul and Glenda Scanlon. In 2012, the name was streamlined to LIFE Church UK, signaling a new era of leadership and a renewed focus on community-centric ministry. Today, under the guidance of Lead Pastors Jock and Shirley James, the church continues to champion a message of belonging and purpose, reaching thousands through both physical gatherings and digital broadcasts. A Holistic Approach to Ministry and Social Action What sets LIFE Church apart is its commitment to the "holistic" needs of the community—addressing the spiritual, social, and emotional wellbeing of residents. 1. Life Coffee House: The Community’s Living Room One of the most popular amenities on the Wapping Road campus is the Life Coffee House. Serving locally roasted beans from North Star Coffee, this public space is more than just a café; it is a networking hub and a place of sanctuary for locals and visitors alike. With free public Wi-Fi and a modern, welcoming design, it serves as a bridge between the church and the secular community. 2. Youth Empowerment: The Rock Solid Skatepark Recognizing the need for safe, engaging spaces for the younger generation, LIFE Church operates a professional-grade indoor skatepark. This facility provides a constructive environment for local youth to build skills, form friendships, and find mentorship through the church's "Rock Solid" youth programs. 3. LIFE Foundation and Social Justice The church’s charitable arm, the LIFE Foundation, actively combats the challenges of modern urban life. Their initiatives include: Poverty Relief: Partnering with organizations like the Message Trust to launch Community Groceries. Family Support: Offering SEN (Special Educational Needs) coffee mornings, baby massage classes, and holiday Lego clubs. The Christmas Spectacular: An annual event that brings festive joy and free toys to thousands of underprivileged children in the district. Leadership and Training: Life10 and Beyond Education and leadership development are pillars of the LIFE Church experience. The Life10 training program (and the broader LIFE Leadership College) provides faith-based training for individuals looking to deepen their theological understanding or enhance their leadership skills within their workplaces and communities. Shirley James, with her background in Christian Leadership and Theology, remains a key driver in these educational efforts. Visiting LIFE Church Bradford Located near the Forster Square Retail Park, the campus is designed for accessibility and comfort. Sunday Services: Vibrant worship and practical biblical teaching (9 AM – 1:30 PM). Amenities: Free on-site parking, nursing mother rooms, and fully accessible facilities. Digital Presence: For those unable to attend in person, global media broadcasts and YouTube streams ensure the message of LIFE is accessible worldwide. Frequently Asked Questions  1. What are the service times at LIFE Church Bradford? Sunday services typically run between 9:00 AM and 1:30 PM. It is recommended to check their website for the most current schedule. 2. Is the Life Coffee House open to the general public? Yes, Life Coffee House is a public café open Tuesday through Friday (9 AM – 3 PM) and during specific Sunday hours. 3. Does the church provide parking? Yes, there is free on-site parking available for all visitors and attendees at the Wapping Road campus. 4. How can I get involved in the youth programs? The "Rock Solid" youth programs and the indoor skatepark have specific session times during the week and on Fridays. Information is available at the welcome desk or online. 5. Is the facility accessible for those with disabilities? Absolutely. The church features wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and designated parking to ensure everyone is welcome. 6. What is the "Life10" program? Life10 is a training and discipleship track designed to help individuals grow in their faith and leadership abilities. 7. How can I donate to the LIFE Foundation? Donations can be made via cash, credit/debit cards, bank transfer, PayPal, or contactless giving points located on the campus. 8. Is there a place for nursing mothers? Yes, the church provides dedicated Nursing Mother Rooms equipped with live feeds of the service so you don't miss out. 9. Do I need to be a member to visit? No, LIFE Church welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and faiths (or none) to visit the café, services, or events. 10. What social justice work does the church do? The church is heavily involved in poverty relief, mental health support, and family early-intervention programs through the LIFE Foundation. Contact Information: Phone: +44 (0)1274 307233 Address: Wapping Road, Bradford, BD3 0EQ Website: lifechurchhome.com