Over the past two weeks we’ve had a series of events launching Hope Church. First, we hosted a civic reception and invited community and civic leaders to a lunchtime presentation on our church. The town mayor was present, local councillors and other key partners were present. Our aim was to build goodwill and awareness of the work of the church in the local community.

Secondly, we hosted two events for the local community and invited a magician, Steve Price, to entertain us. Both events were well intended and it was a low-key friendship based events but where the Christian faith was clearly presented. I found this one of the easiest events to get people along to and would certainly recommend both Steve and the idea of a church hosted magic night.

Thirdly, we delivered 5000 flyers to the local community informing them of our just10 preaching series.

With a little bit of help from some friends we received some press coverage in the local press and the news of a merger/marriage between an FIEC and a Newfrontiers church has begun to spread quite widely.

Lastly, we invited the wider church to come and celebrate with us. Around 150 people came to one of the most diverse (in terms of attendance) church services I’ve ever been to with a wide cross section of the Christian community in our town present. We shared the story, history & vision of the church and were grateful for the prayers and support of those who came.

So another marker in the journey has been laid down and we press into the future with some confidence. There is still much to be done to really transform it into one church in two places with a common identity, vision and goal. For those things to be more than just words from the leaders but an actual grounded reality but that doesn’t happen overnight but through worship, prayer and shared mission together. We think God began this good work so we’re confident he’ll complete it.