City Church Christchurch

City Church Christchurch has been an integral part of my life for over a decade. I've seen firsthand the depth, strength, and sincerity of this community. If I hadn’t moved overseas, I'd still be part of it today. They truly value the Word here and live it out in their everyday. If you're looking for a new church home in Christchurch, then you should definitely check it out.

I'd like to first address there are number of amazing individuals not only within the congregation, but leaders who have truly been a positive impact in my life. Unfortunately this does not dampen my experience, or the countless experiences of women who left the Church in severe emotional pain, some having left the faith entirely. It's important to note, I was only recently diagnosed with autism, this being a contributing factor to my social struggles within this Church. While I haven't attended this church for nearly a year, I wanted to ensure my opinion was not one driven by anger but instead conviction. Having studied both business and community outreach it's become clear to me this this church follows a buisness model. I was scolded for inappropriate behavior, but never mentored despite my pleas. I knew I wasn't following the strict ideas of what the church expected of me yet was offered literally no guidance to become a better woman of God. Eventually I became isolated, ostracized, and clinically depressed. Unfortunately the exclusion I faced drove me to work harder for approval, something I would never gain from church leadership. I can count on one hand the amount of encouragement I received from my leaders in the areas I served... over a span of 3 years I was kept from attending any connect group, withheld pastoral care during traumatic life events and even reprimanded for raising concerns. I apologize for my at times inappropriate behavior, but ask when I was even given redirection or instruction on what was expected of me. I avoided public negative feedback due to pride, when deep down I'd STRONGLY advise against joining City Church. If you're looking for somewhere to worship once a week go for it, but the church is called to far more than putting on a show once a week. If it were only me who left this church with severe mental health issues I'd stay quiet, but there is a reoccurring theme of people losing their faith, and sanity. To the members of this church who made me feel welcome, I am endlessly grateful. Without you, I may have quite literally ended my life, believe me, I tried. Whether the leaders believe it or not, I am rooting for their success, praying endlessly, and trusting God will make their paths straight. However, I will never forget the pain willingly caused through years of being the subject of gossip and mistreatment. They will know us by our love, not our brand image, public speaking ability, or charismatic leaders. Shalom Shalom, Stella Haldane.

Have a nice event there through a partner group on a Tuesday night which caters for international students and workers you can have a meal for free and do a little bit of Christian chat together. Good offering.

We attended Church last weekend during our annual visit to family in Christchurch. Very welcoming people and prayerful experience. Great for families too with little ones also provided with their own children's programme as well. Will look forward to our attendance when next over from 'across the ditch'.

I've been attending here for nearly 4 years. As an expat from Northern Ireland, this Church is the best church I've experienced in my 20+ years as a Christian. Very supportive community, always willing to help. Really inspiring teaching, God focused Kingdom Culture on the Trinity of Father, son Jesus & Holy Spirit.