Fairhaven's White Church, Lytham

I was pleased to call at the Fairhaven Congregational Church, now United Reformed, at Lytham in western Lancashire. It must be one of the most peculiar church buildings in the country for both its colour and design. Rather predictably called the White Church, it was envisioned by local Congregationalists in 1899 and opened in 1912 to serve the growing and prosperous seaside resort. Built in white Ceramo blocks, it is meant to resemble a lighthouse, which is appropriate for its maritime views and the gospel’s shining of light into fallen humanity’s sea of darkness. I was unable to gain access to the inside, but I understand that it is suitably grand and enjoys the benefits of stained-glass windows depicting various protestant heroes of the faith.

The current URC denomination is in a serious spiral of decline, reaping the seeds of liberalism which former generations were pleased to sow. I cannot comment on the state of this particular fellowship, though I can categorically state that the gospel of Jesus Christ remains the world’s only hope ahead of its ultimate judgement and destruction. A lighthouse indicates the proximity of rocks and hazards; any who ignore the light will be broken to pieces in the darkness.

I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. John 12:46