Feb 25 Monthly Message
3rd February 2025
3rd February 2025
23rd December 2024
1st November 2024
8th October 2024
11th September 2024
21st July 2024
1st July 2024
6th May 2024
10th March 2024
8th February 2024
1st January 2024
3rd May 2023
2nd April 2023
9th March 2023
27th February 2023
3rd February 2023
14th January 2023
14th January 2023
4th December 2022
4th November 2022
22nd October 2022
22nd October 2022
7th September 2022
22nd August 2022
22nd July 2022
3rd February 2025
Dear Church Family,
I can’t believe how quickly 2025 has started! There’s already so much to reflect on and celebrate. Over Christmas, we welcomed 400 more people than the previous year—a record for our services. Since January, we’ve seen new faces joining us and an encouraging increase in children attending on Sundays. God is drawing people from near and far.
At the start of the year, I shared the importance of broadening leadership within our church. We’re reaching capacity with our current structures, and to keep up with growth, we need to adapt. Attached are slides outlining this vision. If you feel called to take on more responsibility, please speak with me or Will.
Our 72 Hours of Prayer was a great encouragement, with over 72 hours of cumulative prayer across our community. Prayer is the lifeblood of the church, and without it, we cannot thrive.
The PCC has approved an ambitious budget for 2025, stepping out in faith that our income will grow alongside our ministry. As always, generosity is key—it enables mission and ensures the good news reaches those who need it. Jesus also taught that generosity guards against idolatry and deepens our relationship with God.
We also reviewed our annual “Statistics for Mission,” and the results are humbling. As of October 2024, our worshiping community stands at 137, including 17 children—more than double the size since I started three years ago. This growth is a testament to God’s faithfulness and your commitment.
This January marked my third anniversary as Priest in Charge. Please join me in reflecting on what we’re thankful for over the past few years. On Sunday, February 2nd, we’ll have a chance to share these stories together.
We’ve begun a sermon series, “Foundations: Timeless Truth in Uncertain Times,” exploring core Christian doctrines to deepen our confidence in faith. Recordings are available online, except the first, which we’ll circulate as text soon.
We’re also hosting Simon Pope, a third-year curate, on placement to learn about Market Town ministry. Please take a moment to welcome him.
Excitingly, the Bishop has invited us to become a Diocesan Mission Hub—a recognition of our growth and missional energy. We’re discerning this opportunity carefully and will update you soon.
Finally, some upcoming events:
• Sunday, February 2nd Morning: Coffee tasting! Help us choose a new local supplier by sampling options after the service.
• Sunday, February 2nd Evening: A New Wine Celebration with extended worship, teaching, and space for the Holy Spirit. Join us at 6 PM.
• Sunday, February 16th at 3 PM: Afternoon Tea for all who serve in the church, hosted by the Core Team as a thank-you for your contributions.
Let’s continue to pray, grow, and trust in God’s leading as we step into this exciting season.
With gratitude,
Chris
3rd February 2025
23rd December 2024
1st November 2024
8th October 2024
11th September 2024
21st July 2024
1st July 2024
6th May 2024
10th March 2024
8th February 2024
1st January 2024
3rd May 2023
2nd April 2023
9th March 2023
27th February 2023
3rd February 2023
14th January 2023
14th January 2023
4th December 2022
4th November 2022
22nd October 2022
22nd October 2022
7th September 2022
22nd August 2022
22nd July 2022