has always sought to be active and available in the local community, and for several years has had an impact that belies the relatively small number of members. These activities included regular events, such as Olive Branch, Toddler Group, our Welshwood Manor services and Operation Christmas Child shoebox appeal, and one-off events like Fuss for the Queen, the water project fundraising events, and supporting events at the local primary school.

However, it became apparent midway through 2015 that many helpers were struggling with frailty or other commitments and therefore a significant burden was falling on a core group who became exhausted and were being personally challenged themselves.

The leadership recognised that this was not a healthy situation and that the minister was also carrying too much of this involvement. It was at this point that we sensed the Lord calling us to become less busy, and to seek His face for our future. In September the leadership, other individuals, and particularly a core group who met every week, committed to pray about it. This continued over several months.

At the church meeting in December we agreed unanimously to stop all activities and to establish what was our twice-weekly ‘Time 4 God’ meetings, where we came and made ourselves available to our Lord.

We sensed that initially this period of rest would simply mean discovering quality time in the Lord’s presence. For many this would be a period of restoration (physical, emotional and spiritual), and for others, a time of personal reflection and healing.

We did not know how long this period would last, however, we believed that our Lord would reveal his purposes and plans for us in His time. Until then, we remained committed to seeking His face and giving God His rightful place in our fellowship and individual lives.

However, as a church we recognised the importance of prayer. Prayer meetings take place three times a week. We meet on zoom for all church meetings.