Grubs Up

When:

Weekly Thursday evening service, providing a short service of the word with a meal (provided by volunteers), prayer and social support.

Grubs Up is a church service designed specifically for people who we meet around the churchyard. People who live chaotic or addictive lifestyles. People who have been battered by the storms of life. Creating a space of supported vulnerability. The service looks to support people to learn more about the love of God and to provide opportunities for people to make changes to their life that will enable them to leave behind some of the addictions that have afflicted their lives. GOD HAS BLESSED THIS SERVICE!

Starting with an average of 8 – 12 people attending, we now have a regular congregation of 20 – 25.

This service has been run and supported by so many people who have also captured the vision of our service and without whom we could not have established a place where people feel accepted and loved for who they are.

God at work through the Stories from our congregation:

People who had determinedly refused to come into church now attend regularly and have put the “Blessing” song as her ringing tone.

I have been asked to take three memorial services for people who grieved the loss of lives taken too soon due to drug overdose, alcoholism and murder. Families have become involved on the periphery offering donations and encouragement. We have established ever stronger links with local charities who see that we are providing a service that they appreciate is benefiting their service users.

We have seen Physical Healings – stomach pains, shakes, anxiety, serious tooth abscess and jaw pain all being completely healed. Housing needs supported (three people have now been rehoused)

People who attend have told us that:

“I feel such a sense of peace by being in this place”

“I look forward to coming and being here each week – I know I am accepted for who I am”

“I feel when I come into this place that there is a light – like shining stars and I feel such kindness from you people, its unbelievable”

“I want to change but don’t know how – I just know Jesus loves me”

“I know I can talk to you about anything”

“I just want to light a candle and pray to God and be blessed”

This service is a place that has enabled people to be confident that they can share their vulnerabilities and fragilities, without shame.

What Next?

• To establish a regular discipleship course

• To continue to work in partnership with local agencies particularly Project 6, Progress, Keighley Council, GPs.

PLEASE KEEP PRAYING FOR THIS SERVICE AND ITS CONGREGATION.