A historic bowling alley in Handsworth has been reborn into a flourishing community hub called Grace Church.
The building was first built as the Plaza Cinema in 1937, it then became the Plaza Casino in 1961 and later Fastlane Superbowl Bowling Alley in 2008.
Luke Jenkinson, who is the Pastor of Grace Church, said: “People nearby who have never entered a church or who have reservations about church in general, have visited us, due to their interest in how the building they frequented in childhood is being transformed.”
Grace Church bought the building in 2014 and started phase one of renovations, they stripped the whole building back to bricks, they moved internal walls and raised the floor to create a single level throughout and installed lifts for disabled access to all levels.
This created a space for the main hall, a youth and children’s hall, a small lounge, an office area, a charity shop, a cafe, a foodbank, a warehouse and storage rooms.
They have now started phase two of renovations, this involves opening up the original cinema entrance and the front of the building.
Lastly, is phase three, which will be to convert the upstairs of the building into a conference centre and further office space.
Mr Jenkinson said: “We are now a hub for the community where many people get support and inclusion and discover God.”
Sharing, showing and giving grace are the statutes Grace Church stands on as they strive to touch the hearts of others through the many events and small groups they host.
Megan Green, a member of the church, said: “Seeing how far the church has grown not only in numbers but in faith and in different parts of the church it’s truly incredible to see.”
Some of the events they host are Grow groups, Dinner parties and the Alpha course. Because of this they bring people from all walks of life together and encourage and empower them to develop their personal Christian walk.
Julie Ken, a non-Christian who has lived in Handsworth for her whole life, said: “I think the church is good, it has really brought the community together and has started to bring lots more people into Handsworth.”
