Church growth in Devon
“Six years ago, when I was 54, I had an encounter with God that changed everything.
“I was born in Bideford, North Devon and I’ve lived there all my life. I’ve been a postman for the last 21 years. I don’t come from a religious background, really. For 50 years, I never gave much thought to faith, but I always felt there was a God.
“It was during the lockdown in 2020 that I unexpectedly began a faith adventure. One Sunday morning, sitting at home, I somehow stumbled upon a local church’s online service – Grosvenor Church in Bideford. I turned it on and enjoyed listening to the worship music. I didn’t understand much else, but I started to tune in each week.
“When we were eventually allowed to meet outdoors, Grosvenor hosted an outdoor service in a field near my home. Due to Covid rules, it was a ticketed event; I got a ticket… but wasn’t sure if I’d actually go.
“On the day of the service, I was torn between going and not. At the last minute, I got on my bike and cycled there. I was worried about fitting in with all the seemingly perfect church people and whether they’d judge me. But I was wrong about that.
“I arrived, looking around, not knowing anyone. I sat down by myself, but, strangely, I didn’t feel alone. I sensed a presence, though I didn’t know what it was. Then the worship music started, and a song called ‘The Blessing’ began. I closed my eyes, and all at once I was overcome by an overwhelming feeling of love. It was the Holy Spirit filling me with the love of Jesus. I cried all the way through the worship, filled with the presence of God. That was the day my life changed.
“Dave Symons, one of the church elders (who is also a Counties evangelist), invited me to chat with him. He introduced me to someone who became my spiritual teacher, Harry Gillick. He taught me so much, and we’ve had a great relationship ever since. One year after that outdoor service, I was baptised in the sea at Westward Ho!
“Six years later, now it’s me teaching new Christians with my friend Harry. My life has changed so much and it’s not always easy, but I now walk with Jesus beside me, guiding me through life’s ups and downs. I’m incredibly hungry to learn and share God’s Word.
“I love sharing my faith with others at work and on my postal delivery round. God’s love opens doors, and I’ve shared the Gospel with people from all walks of life. I’ve made many new friends, some of whom have come to church, some of whom haven’t. That’s perfectly fine. Sometimes evangelism is simply taking the time to listen and to show love to people.”
Paul, postman, Bideford, North Devon
DAVE’S PERSPECTIVE ON DEVON
What is God doing in Devon? Over the past five years or so, I’ve noticed a shift towards greater openness to the Gospel here. Non-believers are showing more interest in reading the Bible, and for those who are already Christians, there is a greater passion to dig deep into God’s Word, especially amongst the younger generation.
Another change has been the number of people turning up at local churches who have already come to faith on their own, often through watching Christian material online – a bit like Paul did. When doing outreach, we’ve found people who have developed a recent interest in the Christian faith through watching online debates or Christian YouTubers, especially younger people.
In Devon at least, the signs are clear that many people are actively searching for spiritual meaning and hope. As Christians, we must grab this window of opportunity. I pray that God makes us all a bit more like Paul, keen to share God’s love with the people we see each day.
Dave Symons, Counties Evangelist.
Contact david.symons@countiesuk.org to speak to Dave if you’re in the South West.
Do you want to grow in confidence at sharing the Gospel? Our CETP (Connect Evangelist Training Programme) is designed for local church members and includes six online modules to study at home, group webinars, and mission opportunities. Find out more at countiesuk.org/training and speak to your church about the course.