New to Sanctuary? We’re Excited to Meet You!
Whether you’re exploring faith or looking for a church to call home, here’s everything you need to know to feel right at home from your very first visit.
Worship Service Time & Location
Sunday Worship:
Join us every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. for a family-friendly service filled with vibrant worship and a Bible-based message.
Location:
109-111 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2ET
Email:
admin@sanctuarychurch.uk
FAQ's
What can I expect when I visit Sanctuary Church?
At Sanctuary you can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Our services include worship music, a teaching from the Bible, times of prayer and fellowship over a cuppa. We aim to create a space where everyone feels safe to explore their faith, ask questions and connect with others.
Do I need to be a Christian to attend?
No, you don’t need to be a Christian to join us. Sanctuary is a place for anyone who is curious about faith, looking for community or simply seeking a deeper understanding of life and spirituality. You are welcome here no matter where you are on your faith journey.
What does Sanctuary Church believe?
We believe in the transforming power of God’s love as shown through Jesus Christ. Our beliefs are rooted in the Bible and include the core teachings of the Christian faith, such as God’s love for all people, the life-changing presence of the Holy Spirit and the importance of living out our faith through love, generosity and integrity. You can learn more about our beliefs here.
Is there a children’s ministry?
Yes, we have a vibrant children’s ministry where kids can learn about God in a fun, safe and engaging environment. Our team is passionate about helping children grow in their faith and develop a relationship with God. Find out more about our children’s ministry here.
Can I bring a baby, or keep my kids in the service?
At Sanctuary we want families to feel welcome, and know that kids can be loud, messy and disruptive at times. No two families are alike in what they need to make coming to church work for them. Please speak to someone when you arrive about what your unique needs are – we are breastfeeding friendly, have high chairs available, a crèche room full of toys and baby equipment and changing spaces available. Come as you are, you’ll be welcome whatever, and we’d love to know how to help.
What kind of programmes or events do you offer?
We offer various programmes and events, including prayer meetings, worship services, bible studies and special events throughout the year. Our focus is on helping people connect with God and each other, whether through times of prayer, learning or serving our community. Check out our upcoming events.
How can I get involved at Sanctuary Church?
There are many ways to get connected at Sanctuary Church! You can join us for our regular gatherings, attend our prayer meetings or volunteer with our many teams. We also have opportunities for families to connect through our children’s ministry. To learn more about getting involved visit our Connect page.
What is your approach to worship and teaching?
Our worship is a blend of contemporary music and traditional elements designed to help people experience God’s presence. Our teaching is rooted in the Bible and focusses on making His truths relevant to everyday life. We aim to create an atmosphere where people can encounter God and grow in their faith. We use a large projector screen for people to follow the words during sung worship.
Do you have both women and men involved in church life?
We believe that God created men and women different but equal in their ability to serve and partake in His ministry. This includes hearing from God, teaching from the Bible to help us grow and learn, shaping our young people, worshipping with their voices and instruments, serving teas and coffee and keeping our building safe, so you will see both genders involved in all aspects of church life (Leadership team, trustees and all volunteer teams).
Do you have prayer meetings?
Yes, we hold regular prayer meetings where we come together to seek God’s guidance, support one another and pray for our community and the world. These gatherings are open to everyone, whether you’re comfortable praying out loud or prefer to listen quietly.
How do I learn more about Jesus at Sanctuary Church?
If you’re interested in learning more about who Jesus is and what it means to follow Him we invite you to connect with us. You can speak with a member of our team during a service, join a prayer meeting, attend the monthly bible study or reach out to us directly. We’re here to answer your questions and support you on your journey.
How can I contact Sanctuary Church?
We’d love to hear from you! You can contact us via email or by visiting our location in Whitley Bay. Find all our contact details in the footer below.
What should I wear/bring/do?
We believe that when we come to church to meet with God we should be our most authentic selves. Whether you’ve grown up in church or never been before it can be hard to know what to expect – or what is expected of you! There is no need to dress up, wear something particular, or do anything different to a normal day at Sanctuary Church. You might like to bring a bible (although we do have a small selection if you’d like to use one here) and notebook and pen for the teaching section of our services.
I have accessibility/disability/additional needs. Can I engage with Sanctuary church?
Sanctuary church has both a ramp and steps access to the front. There is plenty of space for maneuvering a wheelchair or pram through the main doors. We have comfortable seating available at the back of church for anyone who needs it. There is a disabled toilet (which includes a changing table) in addition to separate male/female cubicles. We have a fully fitted kitchen if you have any dietary requirements. Anything else – please speak to our Welcome Team on arrival and we’ll try our hardest to accommodate your needs!
We do not currently have any way to assist those who are hearing impaired, although the words to worship songs will be displayed on the main screen at the front of church.
How do I find Sanctuary church?
Located in the heart of Whitley Bay we are a short 5 minute walk from the Metro station and on a regular bus route with a bus stop outside our door (please check times through separate providers). There is nearby street parking – although please be sure to check signs for any permit or exemption areas. Our street address is 109 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2ET. If you need help finding us please contact admin@sanctuarychurch.uk.
How long does a Sunday service last?
Our regular Sunday morning services start at 10:30 a.m. and finish by 12 p.m. after which we serve tea, coffee and cake to allow people to socialise. If you’re coming along for the first time please feel free to join us and make yourself known, but equally if you need to rush off there is no obligation. We know that weekends are busy times!
Did The Bay Church change its name to Sanctuary Church?
Yes, we changed our name in 2024 because fundamentally, we believe God asked us to.