South Woodham Ferrers is located on the banks of the River Crouch in Essex. Originally planted ninety years ago as a ‘mission’ to the plotland dwellers, the church has seen the town grow rapidly around it into a thriving community of 17,000 people.
Adrian Ward moved to serve as minister here in December 2020 and has enjoyed getting to know the church and town. He says:
“As a church we are seeking to share the good news of Jesus with those around us. We are thankful for the well-established groups in our church life such as Girl’s Brigade, Boy’s Brigade, Open Door Baby & Toddlers, Ladies Afternoon Fellowship and Men’s Breakfast.
Six Connect groups meet during the week in various locations. These are an opportunity to share fellowship, prayer and Bible study in small groups. We are starting the year by following the ‘Talking Jesus’ course from Hope Together.
We have also been encouraged by the number of friends coming along to our outreach events. These have included Food and Crafts at Christmas and Easter and a Family Film Afternoon.
Food plays an important part in church life! And the delicious homemade soup has been much appreciated at the weekly Warm Welcome Drop-In that began in November. (pictured)
We have a good working relationship with the other churches in the town. There are various shared initiatives such as a Foodbank, Open the Book school assemblies and a team of School Pastors who go into the local secondary school each week. It is a joy to see people from different church traditions serving together in this way.”
Our church verse for 2023 reminds us that we are called to be ready to give the reason for the hope that we have (1 Peter 3:15). Please pray that during this year we will know more of, and will be ready to share, more of this wonderful hope that we have in Jesus Christ.
8th December 2024
1st December 2024
17th November 2024
