I remember, soon after I became a Christian in my early 20s, dreaming about the perfect church that I would want to be a part of. I had lots of crazy ideas about music and buildings. However, the one thing that was clear at that time was that I longed for a church that expressed love tangibly, in practical ways to the people that surrounded it. I think that this was Jesus' vision for his church as well. So, we have made this the heartbeat of the next several weeks - that we would be a blessing to others in the same way that we have been blessed. I am excited for what God will do in us this summer but even more by what he might decide to do through us.
Here is the plan: We have made this accessible for all, whether you are exploring faith or are all in, there will be things you can get involved with. I'd encourage you to stretch yourself and to have fun as together we make Jesus known in Stockport.
28th July - Generosity - Reverse Offering
We're kicking off the summer with a reverse offering where we will be going into Stockport to bless people. We will meet at St Thomas' first to worship and pray together and then head out to financially and spiritually bless the people of Stockport.
4th August - The difference you can make
We're going to hear from the wonderful Daniel and Emily Eduardo, who are currently in Brazil, about the difference we can make in people's lives when we follow God and serve others.
We're then going to have some community time of board games and a bring and share lunch. There will be a poll going out in the WhatsApp group to sign up for food to keep your eyes peeled for that.
11th August - Clean the land and Revival Night
We're having a practical serving and cleaning up week this week. There will be litter picking, prayer walking, and a clean up at St' Thomas'.
There will be a Revival Night where will we have an evening of prayer and worship. If you're free, you should come along, the last one was so powerful and it was so great for so many of us to gather together to pray and worship over Stockport.
18th August - Feed the Hungry
We've got Feed the Hungry coming to run a food packing event with us. This will be a great opportunity to engage with and get involved in international mission. We did this a couple of years ago and both kids and grownups loved it!
We will need 4 volunteers to help unload the van in the morning. Please let Rachel know if you're able to help with this.
25th August - Awaken Festival
From 23rd to 26th August we're going to be at Awaken Festival. If you're not able to make it to the whole weekend, or if camping isn't your thing, you can come along for the day on 25th August. It would be great to have as many of our church family there as possible. You can book your tickets here: https://groundlevel.yeahtickets.com/awaken-2024/tickets
We can't wait to serve with you all and bless Stockport together this Summer.
Every blessing,
Ben
