When the United Reformed Church came into being in October 1972, with the joining together of the Congregational Union and the Presbyterian Church in England, it was not a too difficult decision for Melbourne to decide to become part of it, as we had, in the modern term, done that, been there, (we didn't get the T Shirt, but we have the sweat shirts now!!).
Our earliest discoverable history was of a small Presbyterian cause meeting in cottages in what is now the grounds of Chantry House at the bottom of Penn Lane. Then came Congregationalism and a move to a larger Independent Chapel farther up Penn Lane, called Lady Hungtindons Chapel. This is now the home of Mr and Mrs Hedley Needham. (Huntingdon House).
With the need in 1871 of still larger premises, another move brought our forefathers to our present buildings, on land offered by Lady Palmerston at half the market price and built with stone quarried from near the site of the old windmill.
From our historical records it is interesting to note that the foundation of what is now Derby Central United Reformed Church was laid by two ministers from Melbourne - yes we also had two then! going to preach in Derby in 1784.
IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD AND IT WAS THE Word being preached by David Taylor, sent out from Donington Hall by the Countess of Huntingdon that the cause here commenced and it was through preaching the Word that non conformity grew and flourished, and is still very much part of our worship today. The Bible is central, and in this Church is brought in by a member of the congregation before every Service.
THE BIBLE - The Word of God His message to us - which springs from this Book when people seek it, is the supreme authority of faith and conduct.
THE CREEDS - The United Reformed Church is in the central Christian tradition. It cherishes the old creeds and the confessions made by our forefathers, but it considers it is good for us to re-state what we believe now and again so that our faith is better understood. The phrase "the priesthood of all believers" is the very centre of our church's life. Ministers and members working together to share the good news of Jesus. We are a democratic organisation taking seriously the part all need to play in the ongoing work of the church.
Ministers after training are ordained to the Word and Sacrament. They are not appointed by an individual or central body, but are called by the local church. Elders are elected from the roll of church members and are ordained and inducted to office.
Church Members have made a public commitment to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour and to serve within His church. Members meet together within the Church Meeting make final decisions on all matters.
Our worship is central to the church's life. Services are held twice each Sunday, on other Christian Festivals and in midweek groups. There is a minimum of ritual but a variety of styles, but still, importantly, emphasis is placed on preaching God's word and praising Him through their singing of songs old and new.
The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper is celebrated twice monthly and is open to all who truly believe in, and seek to serve, the Lord Jesus Christ.
In all the activities of the church, we seek to provide opportunities for all of the family to Praise, Pray and Play together, and to serve, as far as we are able, the local community, offering friendship and fellowship to all.
Throughout our history, work with children and young people has always been a very important part of the life of the church. In the mid 1800's there were times when it was noted that there were 335 children on the registers. There was also an occasion when a grant for children’s work was stopped, because in addition to teaching the faith, help was given in reading and writing. Today, our childrens and youth work continues to prosper. While we cannot claim in recent times to have over 300 children on the registers, our Junior Church has recently handed out many prizes for good attendance. Midweek we endeavour to meet the needs of young people with Pilots for the 5 - 11 year olds and Explorers for the 12 - 16 year olds. Both of which provide, along with fun and games a time of learning and developing in the Christian faith.
Regular social events are held open to all, where, as in all things, the church family extends a friendly welcome to anyone who wishes to come along.
The U.R.C. today what it it? We like to think we are up-to-date with:
