Newport Pagnell URC started a weekly time of worship for families attended by two adults and three children. Little did they know that this would blossom into so much more. The Revd Jenny Mills, Minister of Newport Pagnell United Reformed Church, explores how a simple desire to meet the needs of the community led to flourishing discipleship in the area.

After starting this tiny group which needed some good quality family worship, before we knew it we were providing Friday evening meals for women, community meals where we open up the hall to share food and conversation, games and laughter with anyone who wants to come along and a project to knock down our church hall and create a flexible community space in the town centre.

We have had so many people engage with the life of the church as they have committed to help us raise the funds needed. Members of the community really stepped up with their fundraising events and regular giving to help us raise £660,000.

All of this has led to a sense of the church being an integral part of the local community. Folk from the church are involved in all aspects of the town’s life, especially families in the ‘just about managing category

Christians often see gladness and generosity as a ‘one-way street’ in which we give and those outside the church/poor people receive, but we have been changed, challenged and loved by those whom we set out to support and love as much as we have helped them. We influence each other by Walking the Way alongside each other, mutually.’

What groups or activities in your church could trigger other ways of responding to the needs of the community around your church? Visit https://www.urcnewportpagnell.org/ to learn more about how Newport Pagnell URC might inspire you.