In 2023 we celebrate the church’s centenary. Paul Williams retires as pastor after 25 years of fruitful ministry. Brian Whittaker takes over, having moved from South Wales to Swindon in 2021. But as we celebrate 100 years we continue to look outwards at the task ahead of us – to make disciples of Jesus Christ in Swindon and beyond.
Paul Williams
Lead pastor from 1998 - 2022
Major Changes Throughout My Time
There are two changes in particular that stand out:
Church membership:
The congregation has radically changed over the last 25 years. When we arrived, the congregation were overwhelmingly from the UK, with many born in Swindon. But gradually, and joyfully, the congregation has become far more international, and today represents around 26 different nationalities. We have seen large numbers of Iranians pass through the church, with many of them being baptised here, and doing Farsi-medium Bible studies. We were also delighted to welcome our dear friends from Ukraine, consisting of a family of 17. All these people have been a blessing to us, enriching us with their presence.
Creating a Staff Team
Our first Assistant Pastor was Matthew Cottington. But since then, we have established a paid staff team, covering Administration, Women’s Pastoral Ministry, Youth and Children’s Ministry, and Pastoral Assistants, Assistant Pastor, and Associate Pastor, plus a number of Ministry Trainees. This has been necessary to enable the work and ministry of the church to develop. We are thankful and give God the praise.
“the offence of the cross has not ceased, and we might be subjected to ridicule and even persecution, but let us get on with the work.”
Mark Trafford
Elder
What are the areas of need within the church?
Whilst the Swindon Evangelical church has many needs, both practical and spiritual, most needs we can address. But the church should always be outward looking too. What other needs are we seeking to address? We know that within the community of Old Town there are those who are lonely. This might have arisen for various reasons, through bereavement, broken relationships or other means. So we have sought to provide a meeting, where those who don’t experience regular human interaction, can at least come and join us for conversation, coffee/tea and be cared for. But we believe meeting physical or emotional needs is not enough and also seek to meet spiritual needs. We respectfully and carefully with sensitivity introduce people to the person of Jesus Christ found in the gospels. Many have found comfort, help and new life trusting in Jesus.
We are conscious we live in challenging times and we seek to help asylum seekers and those who have been displaced. We are seeking to bring comfort to those who have had to leave family and friends in war torn areas and those who have fled oppressive regimes. They all need shelter, and a sympathetic ear to unburden hurting hearts. We seek to address, where possible, practical needs. But people from all nations and speaking different languages, should be free to hear about the peace and joy that Jesus Christ offers.
Young Mums can often feel tired, a little isolated, in need of an understanding ear and a safe environment, where they can let their little ones play and interact with other toddlers. Stepping Stones is an oasis where little ones can play, sing songs and listen to bible stories.
These are just a few of the needs that Swindon Evangelical Church seeks to meet. There are many others but the common thread running through the communities that we serve is a need to be confronted with the life-changing message that Jesus Christ brings.
Interviews
Past and present members of Swindon Evangelical Church share their testimonies of how God has worked through them at the church.
Timeline
Some of the key moments for the church over the past century.
The first meeting place of the church
The fence was originally chicken-wire
Building of the new frontage to the church.
Jack Ringer sailed for India where he was to serve the Lord on the North West Frontier for the next 42 years. |
Homecall of Mr Ewings, founder and first Pastor.
Induction of Oliver Sainsbury as second Pastor. |
Mr Sainsbury retires and moves away to live in Worthing.
Induction of third Pastor, D Leonard Evans.
The close of Mr Evans’ pastorate as he moves to Letchworth.
Induction of fourth Pastor, Antony M Finnie
The baptistry built and used for the first time
John Parmenter appointed as first Elder.
First Holiday Bible Club. |
Grace Morley returns to India for six months. She goes back again in 1993, and for a final short visit in 1995.
Janet Cowie leaves for Pakistan to serve with NWFF. |
David Andrew inducted as an Elder.
Paul Williams is invited, and accepts, the call to be Associate Pastor.
Antony Finnie steps down as Pastor and continues his ministry in Lawshall Evangelical Church.
Matthew Cottington appointed as Assistant Pastor for three years.
Gallery
A variety of snapshots of groups and occasions throughout the life of the church.
