Monday, September 14, 2009

Livingwaters - Chorley




















Livingwaters in Chorley has a double-celebration over a recent weekend. The Saturday evening service was dedicated to honouring Tony and Jennifer Lacy who have pastored the church for the past 28 years and the Sunday saw the induction of their son, John Lacy (pictured here with his wife Michelle and their two sons) as the new senior pastor.

The church was full for the Saturday evening and many tributes were paid to Tony and Jennifer for their tremendous pastoral input as they transitioned a tiny group of people meeting in a home to a thriving congregation in a spacious and modern church complex. I was the speaker on this occasion and Regional Leader, Kevin Peat, added his own tribute before praying with Tony and Jennifer. As the service drew to a close the entire congregation was invited to a 'pig roast' in the church grounds.

On Sunday morning the the church was packed again. Tony and Jennifer have three fine sons each of which, together with their families, are fully involved in the local church. It was their, recently ordained, son John that I inducted into the senior pastorate of the church subsequent to Elim's National Leadership Team unanimously conveying that this stationing appointment was best way forward for this continually growing congregation.

John had attained the position of 'pastoral and curriculum coordinator'
at a local school in Chorley by the time he had reached the age of thirty and he was clearly delighted that the headmaster and the entire senior staff of the school had come to the church to witness his induction. All were clearly saddened that he would no longer with them but also acknowledged that there was a clear call upon his life. No one has any doubt that the best days for Livingwaters, Chorley, are yet to come.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Lisburn - Northern Ireland














It was my great pleasure to speak at the opening of the newly constructed Elim Church in Lisburn. The dream began seven years ago and the opening was attended by a packed church together with the local mayor and member of parliament as well as Elim's Irish Superintendent Eric McComb

Great tribute was paid to Pastor Norman Christie and his wife Doreen for their tenacity during the period during which plans were laid and finances raised.

The new facility provides comprehensive accommodation for all age groups and, apart from a greatly increased sanctuary area, includes a youth wing and glass prayer tower

Ledbury

Ledbury is a beautiful and historic town at the foot of the Malvern Hills. Less than a year ago Phill and Sally Thompsett commenced an Elim church in the area. Phil and Sally have a great deal of experience pastorally and are ideally placed to see continued growth in this popular tourist area, They are ably assisted by Steve and Julie Taylor

My visit to Ledbury was to 'cut the tape' on a youth outreach ministry situated adjacent to a skate-board park in the town. This creative and innovative outreach will be led by Steve.