I had always thought I was a Christian because I went to church. But one Sunday evening in church, I was challenged by the sermon and I realised that I wasn’t a Christian and needed to do something about it. I became a Christian when I was 14, knowing the truth that “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him, shall not die, but have eternal life.” (Jn 3:16).

I now knew that Jesus had forgiven my sins.

When I left home God faithfully kept me as I attended Hook Evangelical Church and the Christian Union at Kingston University, where I led one of the bible study groups and served on the committee.

In the summer of 1992, I hit a turning point in my Christian life. As a student, I spent three weeks of my summer holiday, with other Christians, helping a local church in Barcelona reaching out to the community around them and to the visitors from around the world, who had come to see the Olympics. This helped me to see the great need of telling other people about what Jesus had done for them.

After graduating from university, I met with the elders of the church to explore the possibility of entering pastoral ministry. Their advice was to gain experience in the workplace, so I worked for a Housing association, and served God as a church member.

Philippa, my wife, and I were encouraged by the love and support of the members at Hook and in particular our pastor Paul Pease. In 2001 the church sent me to Bible College, to train for ministry and we have had three excellent years at Oak Hill. I received superb theological teaching, taught how to correctly handle the word of truth, and extremely practical training that has equipped us for ministry.

In 2003 I spent seven weeks on placement at Beccles Baptist Church and was invited back the following year as Trainee Pastor, under Roger Prime. I now serve the church as Associate Pastor. Above all I give glory to God for what he has done in my life and how in Christ he has led, changed and guided me.