For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.

- Matthew 18:20 (NIV)

Verse of the day :

For we walk by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7

Welcome To
St. John's Church

- Matthew 18:20 (NIV)

Verse of the day :

For we walk by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7

St. John's Church

Verse of the day :

For we walk by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7

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Contact:- +91 9935952354

Service Timing

March-November

8:00 AM Every Sunday

November-March

8:30 AM Every Sunday

Evening service timing

Will be notified soon.

Sunday School

March-November

8:00 AM Every Sunday

November-March

8:30 AM Every Sunday

Communion services

First and Third Sunday of Every month

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If you have a passion for writing articles, poems, short stories, or creating drawings and sketches, you are warmly invited to share your work!

Whether about God or simply meaningful, submissions on themes like hope, love, and compassion are welcome.

Service Timing

March-November

8:00 AM Every Sunday

November-March

8:30 AM Every Sunday

Evening service timing

Will be notified soon.

Sunday School

March-November

8:00 AM Every Sunday

November-March

8:30 AM Every Sunday

Communion services

First and Third Sunday of Every month
Church History

Established

The seed of St. John’s Church at Basharatpur, Gorakhpur was sown by Rev. Michael Wilkinson. The founder of the mission, Mr. Roberts Merttins Bird, a dedicated Civil Servant in the Bengal Presidency, offered his support to the Church Missionary Society (CMS) in 1821 to send a missionary to Gorakhpur. In response, Rev. Michael Wilkinson was sent and began his diligent service. In 1823–24, Rev. Wilkinson laid the foundation of a native church by welcoming 30 native Christians from the Romish Church at Bettiah. His work was significantly supported by Miss Bird, the sister of Mr. Bird, who played a vital role in the mission’s success. In 1831, the Governor-General of India, Lord William Bentinck, endorsed the mission and generously granted 1500 acres of land. The foundation of the church was laid, accompanied by the construction of beautiful cottages. The area was given the name Basharatpur, meaning “The Town of Joy.”

Revolt

By the Grace of Almighty God, a magnificent white Gothic-style church building was completed in 1835. It came to be known as “The Church in the Wilderness.” The mission work was later continued by Rev. Fredrick Wybrow, Rev. J.P. Menge, and other dedicated priests after Rev. Wilkinson’s tenure.

In the year 1853, Rev. Henry Stern was appointed as the Missionary-in-Charge. His tenure coincided with one of the most turbulent times in Indian history — the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857.
On 19th August 1857, during the height of the uprising, the church and the local Christian community were attacked by the mutineers. The church bell and the sacred pulpit were destroyed in the violence. Despite immense persecution and danger, the Christian believers remained steadfast in their faith. However, after enduring two months of hostility, the Christians were forced to leave Basharatpur on 20th October 1857.

Restoration

Rising from the Ashes: Restoration and Renewal Rev. Henry Stern stood strong in the face of adversity. With courage and deep faith, he led the efforts to restore the mission after the mutiny. In 1859, just two years after the chaos, the faithful community returned and resettled in Basharatpur. The damaged church was repaired, and worship services resumed — a testament to the resilience of the believers. In 1878, the Church was officially consecrated by the Bishop of Calcutta and given the name St. John’s Church, honoring St. John, one of the beloved disciples of Jesus Christ. This marked a new chapter of blessing and growth in the church’s journey.

Architecture Expansion

As the church community grew, changes were made to accommodate the needs of the congregation. Around the year 1970, the original tiled roof of the church was replaced with a more durable tin roof. In 2000, a significant expansion and renovation project was undertaken. The Church was extended and modernized while maintaining its historical character, to better serve the spiritual needs of a growing congregation.

Today, St. John’s Church, Basharatpur, Gorakhpur, stands as a beacon of faith, resilience, and God’s enduring grace — a sacred place that continues to glorify the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Bicentennial Celebration

In 2023, a milestone was reached in this ministry with the 200th anniversary of St. John’s Church, Gorakhpur. Preparations began in mid-2022 with the formation of committees and support through donations from church members and sponsors. A key moment was selecting a chief guest. After discussions, Dr. Paul Dhinakaran accepted the invitation immediately.

As Proverbs 16:9 says, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” The grand celebration took place on June 23–24, 2023, bringing joy, gratitude, and spiritual renewal as we honored 200 years of God’s faithfulness.

Future Events

Father's Day

Join us as we celebrate Father’s Day with heartfelt tributes and activities by our youth group, spreading love and gratitude together.

Church Anniversary

The Church’s 202nd Anniversary will be on 24th June 2025. A special evening service will be held at 5:00 PM followed by the fete at St. John’s Church Campus.

Convention

The Annual Spiritual Convention is held every year in the month of October in which a guest speaker is invited.

Christmas and New Year

A Grand Celebration of Christmas and New Year is organized by St. John’s Church in which several community events are held.
Our Pastor
Dear Congregation,
I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. As your Presbyter, I want to sincerely thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our Church.
In these challenging times, your resilience and unity as a congregation have been truly inspiring. Let us continue to uphold the values of love, compassion, and inclusivity that Christ teaches us.

Though we may be physically apart, we remain united in spirit and purpose. I encourage you to stay connected—through prayer, worship, Bible study, fellowship, and meaningful conversations—using the digital tools available to us. Reach out with love to those who may be feeling isolated and offer support, encouragement, and kindness wherever you can.

Let us hold firmly to our faith, drawing strength from God and from each other. Keep the flame of hope alive, pray fervently, and look to Jesus for guidance and peace. Together, with God’s help, we will overcome these trials and emerge stronger. May His blessings and peace be with you always.

-Rev. Roshan Lal

Notices

Father's Day

Join us as we celebrate Father’s Day with heartfelt tributes and activities by our youth group.

Sunday Service

Join us as we reach out to our local community with act of services and level.

Prayer Meeting

Join us as we reach out to our local community with act of services and level.

Committee Notice

Join us as we reach out to our local community with act of services and level.
Church officials

Rt. Revd. Morris Edgar Dan

Bishop(Lucknow Diocese)
Testimonials
St John’Church Basharatpur Gorakhpur is a great place of worship this place has warn and welcoming environment.

Chris Masih

This church truly feels like home — a welcoming community with inspiring sermons, support, love, and spiritual growth.

Aman Philip

This church feels like home. From engaging sermons to community outreach, St. John’s is a beacon of faith and service in Gorakhpur.

Joshua Seth

Every visit to St. John’s Church brings a refreshing encounter with God. The leadership is inspiring and the congregation, truly welcoming.

Samuel Dyson

Frequently Asked

St. John’s Church is situated in the Basharatpur area of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. The specific address is near Chaturvedi Cancer Hospital Chauraha on Medical College Road, Basharatpur, Gorakhpur – 273004.

An alternate route to the church is via H.N. Singh Chowk, Medical College road, Basharatpur. From there, head west for approximately 50 metres to reach the entrance gate of St. John’s Church.

For service timings refer to the uppermost section of the homepage. Any changes in the timings will be updated there. For more information contact or whatsapp at: +91 9935372354

As of now we do not put up our services live due to valid reasons. Church conducted online service in time of need such as COVID-19 and due to congregation’s demand at 200th Anniversary Celebration. In case you need more information regarding the church service e-mail at stjohnsgkpoffice@gmail.com

Whatsapp your prayer request at +91 9935372354 at Friday and Saturday before 6:00 PM IST, so that we can prayer for you at our Sunday Church service.
The presbyter’s contact no. is +91 9935372354. To meet in person call and ask for the permission to meet during office hours. (10 AM to 5 PM). Or Email at stjohnsgkpoffice@gmail.com writing your reason of meeting after which you will be contacted shortly.

St. John’s Church, Basharatpur, Gorakhpur is under Diocese of Lucknow (CNI) therefore presbyters, lay readers are appointed through the Diocese. The Pastorate Committee are elected by the registered members of the Church.
Still you can get involved by attending the church and keeping us in your prayers. Any ideas or work which can benefit the church youth and members will always be welcomed.

Welcome to St. John’s Church.