Our History

St Andrew’s was first established in 1908, in our building now known as The Bridge, as a daughter church of Christ Church, Chorleywood.

The new church grew and in 1963 it was given its own parish and its first vicar. In 1966 a new main building was consecrated and the original one became a church hall.

Throughout its history St Andrew’s has been associated with renewal. From 1980 it became known nationally as a leader in the charismatic movement following a visit (his first to the UK and his first of several to St Andrew’s) by John Wimber. Then in 1989 our vicar at the time, Bishop David Pytches, founded New Wine. For more on how New Wine started and of its story over its first 30 years see this August 2019 video.

St Andrew’s enjoys a reputation for pioneering innovation. Other Christian organisations founded either by St Andrew’s or by one of its members include Soul Survivor (1993) and OneLife (2009).

Most recently (2022), St Andrew’s Church bought the beloved Hillside Baptist Church, renamed Hillside Centre. Well known for its nursery services to pre-school children as well as the home for several other community groups. With a vision to provide more support, encouragement and a ‘free-space’ for our youth community in the local area our hope is to see Jesus transform lives in how we live out every single day.

Today, St Andrew’s remains a pillar of the community, a space that welcomes everyone and people that provide genuine love and support where it is needed.