Monk’s Kirby, Leicestershire, Baptist Church 

Monk’s Kirby, Leicestershire, Baptist Church. The following history is taken from “History of the Baptist Churches in Connection with the Leicestershire Association,” Baptist Magazine (1866), 14.

Mr. John Billings, of Withybrook, is regarded as the founder of the Baptist cause at Monk's Kirby. From the first he subscribed £20 a year for the support of the ministry; and, for many years before he died, he increased it to £30, which he continued till his death in 1830. He subscribed £100 towards the erection of the Kirby chapel, lending £150, at 5 per cent. interest, to aid in paying off the original debt. This he at length gave, together with the interest, to the church. At his death he left £40 a year for five years for the support of the ministry. His munificence is worthy of record, as it is of imitation.

The late highly-esteemed and universally respected pastor, the Rev. James Jones, on leaving Bristol College, settled as minister at Monk's Kirby, the first Sunday in June, 1817. In the following August the church was formed, consisting originally of eighteen members, who gave to each other the right hand of fellowship, and earnestly commended each other to the grace of God by prayer and supplication. There was much persecution during the early period of the existence of this church. Mr. Jones continued his labours until May, 1841, when he left to go to Syston; but, after three years' absence, during which the Rev. W. Jones held the pastorate for a time, he returned to Monk's Kirby, and continued his ministry there until his death in 1860. Thus, for the space of forty years, with affectionate fidelity, he ministered the Word of Life; carefully and diligently studying the Scriptures, that he might instruct and edify the people of his charge, and be wise to win souls. - In the year 1843 a branch chapel was built at Pailton. Since the formation of the church, 188 persons have been or are members in communion. The present pastor, the Rev. J. W. Moore, whose ministry is valued by the people, succeeded Mr. Jones at the close of the year 1860.