Faith Hope and Love
Andrew Philips and Rachel Matthews spoke to church planters Ashley and Geoff from gatheringchurch.co.uk about recreating church.
From the Website. “We aim to be a new kind of church community, where you’ll experience honest worship, real connection, relevant teaching and meaningful action. At The Gathering, our invitational spirit is behind everything we do. You’ll be welcomed just as you are, but we will challenge you to grow. A place where you’ll meet friends, strengthen your faith, and find purpose and meaning. You will be part of something bigger than yourself as we work together to impact our locality and our world.”
Geoff has been involved in Learning and Development in the church for many years. He has a Masters in Theology and post graduate Diploma in Management Studies, as well as being a qualified and registered Social Worker. He has experience in Evangelism, Church Growth, Leadership and Discipleship Development. With a long association with The Stoke-on-Trent Mission Circuit, Geoff was involved in the planting and leadership of The Potter’s House Church during many years of transition. Geoff has led congregations and teams in skills-based worship and is passionate about raising up a future generation of worshipers that pursues excellence as a reflection of an excellent God.
Ashley is currently Principal at Cliff College, following his role as Senior Minister at Swan Bank Methodist Church and Superintendent of the Burslem Mission Circuit. Having trained for ordained ministry in the Methodist Church, Ashley has previously served in the Delamere Forest Circuit, as the District Evangelism Enabler in the Chester and Stoke District, and as the Coordinator of District Evangelism Enablers in the Methodist Church. He has a Masters in Applied Theology, as well as qualifications specifically in Social and Pastoral Theology. A key part of his ministry has been to lead people through a time of transition and change, and continues to do this through our world’s current crisis.