United Kingdom eNews Report

We are believing God for great breakthrough in the United Kingdom. On top of the regular rhythm of events, conferences and church plants, we have recently begun a number of exciting new initiatives. 

In the United Kingdom we have a vision to reach 400 churches in the next few years. At present we have 220 churches, with a further 42 plants. We are starting about one church a month, and are seeing exciting growth in many areas.

If we are to reach 400 churches, we will need many more gifted, passionate pioneering church planters. So in October 2009 we launched Base Camp, a training weekend for those interested in leading a church plant. The weekend was a great success, with over 50 couples from across the nation gathering to receive teaching and training from a selection of speakers.

In the last year we have started new church plants in some key locations, including Dublin, Belfast and London, and in other strategic urban and rural areas.

As well as planting churches, it is my conviction that we are called to be salt and light in our workplaces; to be culture makers and shapers, and to make a real difference wherever God has placed us.

This year saw the launch of the Everything conference, which was held in two locations, London and Leeds, with over 1,000 people in attendance across the two venues. Taking as its text Psalm 24:1, ‘The Earth is the Lord’s and everything in it’, this conference sought to equip believers to glorify God in all areas of their lives. The conference included seminars and workshops on a range of themes, including work, community, the mind and the arts.  

It was wonderful to hear from people in many different areas of society. We heard stories of doctors and artists, lawyers and community workers all striving to be the best workers they can, and to be a positive influence in their workplace. Whether it was a teacher refusing to gossip in the staff room, or a DJ choosing only to air wholesome comments during his show, these are people who are making a difference in the area God has placed them.

Both Together on a Mission and Newday continue to be key events in our calendar. Together on a Mission, including Mobilise, our event for Students and twenties, gathers leaders from many nations for four days of worship, teaching and equipping. It is a great opportunity for us to cast vision, and to celebrate together what God is doing amongst us as a movement. We are looking forward to gathering again this summer.

In 2009, Newday, our summer youth event, moved to a new site, and saw around 7,000 delegates attend. It was remarkable to see hundreds of young people respond to the gospel, and over 300 report that they had been healed.

So there is much to give thanks for and God is doing much more than we’ve had space to mention here. Many of our churches are seeing breakthrough in salvation and healing, or are stepping out in faith with large and challenging building projects. Churches are impacting their communities through social action and faithful, diligent service. We praise God for all He has done and is doing, and look forward to all that He’s got planned for us in the future.