Forging ahead?

Last weekend was the final one of the Forge Training hub for the south, west and Wales 2016. For me personally, this first Forge year has been a thrilling journey, as I’ve watched people grow in their confidence in the fact they are part of God’s good news. During the Forge Training much is said about whatever we’re doing needing to form cultures, which form disciples, which form disciples. The great thing has been walking alongside people as they reflect on ‘how’ this is working out in practice.

You'll be able to find out more via: http://seventy-two.network          

and in 2017 we hope to have Forge Training hubs in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol & Leeds.

The Forgotten Ways ... the sequel

Probably the most influential book, in terms of impact, on the UK missional conversation over the last ten years. As Alan is the biggest influence on Forge Training and we're very much part of the South, West & Wales hub, it's the very least I can do to flag up the new edition of Forgotten Ways. As I said to one person, first time around ... 'the clue is in the title'
in response to them saying 'there's nothing new here'!

Winstone, Gloucestershire, Baptist Church

I'm looking forward to the 200th Church Anniversary in Winstone, Gloucestershire, this weekend.

This the first page of their minute book:

Mr Aldom, Henry Hawkins and Mr Davis were going through this village to a Sunday School at Colesbourne. on 21^st January 1816 were accosted by a female, who requested they hold a Prayer Meeting at her house as they returned in the evening. To this they agreed and when they returned they found to their astonishment the house was crowded with people. The service was commenced with prayer and the word of God was read and a few remarks made upon it: The service was not in vain for one female was arrested so powerfully by the spirit of God that when she retired she was obliged to go home to her bedside and like the weeping prodical cry for mercy. She has since become a member of this society and has borne an honorable testimony ever since.

Shortly after a person of property in Winstone who was intimate with the friend who opened her house first for them sent word that she would like for them to call upon her. Mr Davis called and she told him that she had a stable she would Let to them, at the rent of three pounds a year. Mr Davis mentioned this to Mr Hawkins pastor of the church at Escomes who agreed to it and took it. It was then fitted up and cleaned and on 21^st March it was opened and a Sunday school formed.