Dagnall Street Baptist Church welcomes new minister  

Dagnall Street Baptist Church (DSBC) in St Albans, Hertfordshire, inducted the Revd Mark Welch -  the 26th minister in its 300 year history in the city

Mark (pictured, second right) joins from Burton Latimer Baptist Church in Northamptonshire, where alongside leading his own church, he also provided pastoral care and strategic leadership for four local Baptist churches, together with two ministers in training. 

He is an enthusiastic and Spirit-filled leader,' said the church in a statement, 'passionate about his church and ministry, and this is accompanied by an impressive energy and musical influence.' 

The congregation of DSBC was delighted with the passion Mark presented, the statement continued.  His shared vision is to 'evolve and continue in the journey towards becoming a beacon of light on a hill inviting everyone to come in ‘as you are’ and experience the glory, love, grace and truth of God.'

The induction service took place on 21 June.

'After an extensive search, we are delighted to welcome the Revd Welch to DSBC as our new minister,' said church secretary Chris Penn.

'We have joined together as a congregation to focus on what we want for the future of our church, which is in the heart of our city, so that we can continue to grow and evolve in the work of the Lord.

'With Mark we are in great hands. And we’re delighted that he’ll bring a wonderful musical element to our worship.'

Mark said, 'Leading Dagnall Street Baptist Church is an exciting prospect. It has more than 300 years of history behind it in a wonderful building in the centre of the city.

'I was drawn to the church and its wonderful community focus, including its toddler groups, games events and especially the Cross Street Centre cafe which is such a great way to engage with people.

'I look forward to leading worship here, and everyone is very welcome to join us.' 

Alongside his role with DSBC, Mark serves as a Mission Enabler for the Central Baptist Association. Regional Minister Mary Moody was part of the induction service. 


Image, from left:

The Revd Graham Clake (Moderator), The Revd Paul Lavender (Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Northampton), The Revd Mary Moody (Regional Minister, Central Baptist Association), The Right Worshipful, the Mayor of the City and District of St Albans Councillor Teresa Heritage, Rachel Newman (Minister in training Burton Latimer Baptist Church), Lizzie Beska McLeod (Extension Ministries), Chris Penn (Secretary Dagnall Street Baptist Church), Florence Mintern (Former Secretary Dagnall Street Baptist Church), The Revd Mark Welch (Minister Dagnall Street Baptist Church), Sarah Welch (Mark's wife).