On Sunday we celebrated our first ever baptism at Night Church!
We baptised a young adult who found hope in Jesus about a year and a half ago. It was such a special moment for our young church family. Together, we were reminded of the new life Jesus brings to all who trust in Him as we saw her plunge into the water and re-emerge. We were encouraged as we heard her share her story and publicly declare her allegiance to Jesus. It was especially exciting to have around 20 friends and family, most of whom are not yet followers of Jesus, come along to support her.
This moment has also given me a chance to slow down and reflect on some of the encouragements we’ve experienced so far this year.
On Sunday 22 March, we launched Night Church because we wanted to see the next generation, in the North and beyond, walking in hope with Jesus. They may be in our morning churches entering adulthood, or the young people among us who know nothing about Jesus but are looking for something more – we have a prayerful desire to see them embrace the life that only Jesus can offer.
Another church planter describes the early days of a new church like building the plane while you’re flying it, and that’s been true of my experience. But, in God’s kindness, there is much to give thanks for in these initial stages.
Since launch, we’ve connected with at least 75 people who are not yet followers of Jesus, through things like our 6pm gathering, the Life course, or a Bible Study Group. Beyond Alivia’s baptism, there are other encouraging stories too. Many young people from our morning churches have been praying for their friends and family and have boldly looked for opportunities to bring them along to events where they can meet Jesus. Several people who had previously walked away from church have begun to reconnect. There are also many who know very little about Jesus who are now seriously looking into Him. In our most recent week of our evangelistic course, Life, seven ‘seekers’ connected with Night Church came along.
Thank you for partnering with us in the gospel. Please join us in giving thanks for the work God is doing in the North East.
Please pray that:
- our young people from the morning congregations keep growing in Jesus
- we connect with many more people who are looking into Him
- many more in the North and beyond would come to walk in hope with Jesus