Where we connect
Welcome to Riccarton Community Church
We are a vibrant contemporary church with an outward-looking approach. Our aim is to learn and share Biblical truth, to find strength and joy in our connections with each other, and to grow in our relationship with God. As individuals and as a church community we want to make a positive contribution to the world around us.
Since our establishment as a neighbourhood church in the late 1940’s we have been rolling our sleeves up and acting on our faith, making the teachings of the Bible relevant to our present day, and embracing the rich tapestry of our community, welcoming all ages, backgrounds and walks of life.
What we believe
Our Statement of Belief paints a picture of who we believe God is, what kind of relationship we can have with Him, and what to expect in the future. We put our trust in the Bible to help us paint this picture and guide us in how to engage with and respond to God in our lives.
For the full statement of what RCC believes, download our Statement of Belief.
Service Times
Join us on Sundays at 9am or 11am
Come and join us at 9am or 11am every Sunday or you can connect at 11am every Sunday for the livestream of the service via the Riccarton Community Church Facebook page or YouTube channel - as we gather to worship God, encourage one another and connect with what God is doing in our city and world.
Our Senior Leaders
We are a church that wants to make a positive difference in our community. We strive to focus on the needs of people around us in our suburb of Riccarton, our beautiful city of Christchurch, and beyond to the world we live in.
It is our hope that everyone who plants themselves at Riccarton Community Church will authentically grow in their connection with God and others.
We would be so pleased to welcome you on a Sunday morning, at the Next Steps Station, or at one of our Newcomer’s lunches. We look forward to meeting you!
Blessings, Phil & Cath Stedman
RCC Senior Leaders
What to expect
We would love to host you at one of our services. We understand that it can sometimes be daunting going to a church service, but we genuinely want you to feel welcome and comfortable. Please take a look at the frequently asked questions below – we hope these help you to feel more at ease about visiting RCC!
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You can join us at 9am or 11am every Sunday at 44 Elizabeth Street in Riccarton - as we gather to worship God, encourage one another and connect with what God is doing in our city and world. Or you can connect at 11am every Sunday for the livestream of the service. The 9am and 11am services have children's programmes. Our 6pm service is taking a break over summer and will return in February 2025
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Most people are dressed casually.
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When you walk through the doors at RCC you will be welcomed by one of our friendly greeters. We have ushers who can find you a seat should you need help. We usually begin our services with a time of singing followed by updates, videos or notices. At this point in the morning services, our children are invited to go out to their children’s programmes and we then continue with a 25 minute message.
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During the service, look out for our team walking around with information booklets. The booklet provides useful information on RCC along with a voucher for a free barista made coffee – our way of extending you a very warm welcome. You can also visit the Next Steps Station at the back of the church where you can access information on RCC and our ministries, and, if you wish, you can provide contact details so we can follow up after your visit.
Youth Programmes
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Children aged 0-5 and Primary School Years 1-6. All rooms in the Youth Hall are labelled with the appropriate programme or please ask someone – we’re happy to help.
For children under 3 years there is creche which is a large space to either stay in with your baby or toddler, or if your child is settled, to leave them in the care of parent volunteers. Children are entertained by free play in either the small outdoor space or the cosy indoor room with toys, stories and morning tea. Please sign your child in and out and let the parent helpers know where you will be sitting.
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Pre-schoolers aged 3-4 year olds, is a space where little learners love to share, sing, learn, play and create. Please sign your child in or out with the rostered Leader.
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Primary School years 1-6, is in the main Youth Hall. Chat to a leader (in a purple t-shirt) to indicate you are new. Our programme begins with a time of sharing, prayer and singing as a combined group and then we split into age groups for Bible lessons and activities.
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Our Year 7–8’s meet in the church foyer and then walk to 40 Elizabeth Street, a house owned by RCC only one property away from the auditorium. This fun programme combines activities and games with Bible teaching and discussions that cater to the pre-teen life stage.
How to find us
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Riccarton Community Church is in the suburb of Riccarton, West of the Hagley Park, and 4kms from The Square in Central Christchurch.
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Riccarton Community Church is at 44 Elizabeth Street, just south of Riccarton Road and the Westfield Mall. Elizabeth Street runs between Clarence Street and Matipo Street.
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There is car parking available behind the church and in off-street parks beside the buildings, and some on-street parking on Elizabeth Street and surrounding streets. Please be considerate of our neighbours' driveways as you are parking.
How to contact us
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Whether you are excited about what God has done for you and want to join us in our mission, or are just interested to know more about Him, we welcome you to the community of believers at Riccarton Community Church.
Talk to someone at the Church office on (03) 348 5507, or email us at welcome@rcc.co.nz. Our office hours are 9am - 1:30pm, Tuesday to Friday.
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The Church has a variety of social media pages.
Our main Facebook page is a great place to stay connected with the Church, and each other.
The Riccarton Youth Community has a Facebook page, which is the primary channel for learning about upcoming youth group events.