‘If a church is small and the greater percentage of those who attend have grey hair and are over 70 then close it down.’ That is a caricature, but it does represent the outlook of some Christians.
The Grace Baptist Partnership (GBP) is different. It takes the view that because every church belongs to Christ we need to do everything possible to refresh and revitalise churches before any idea of closure is contemplated. It was under the auspices of GBP that 150 leaders and others from 48 small churches gathered at The Hayes Conference Centre in Swanwick for three days of consultation, teaching and fellowship on 24–26 August.
Death to life
A big feature of the conference was discussion with much sharing of news. One story which excited everyone present was that of Chola Mukanga and Wale Akinrogunde. In 2009 the Grace Baptist church at Thamesmead was staring at closure. Barry King, who heads up GBP, was on the point of agreeing, but felt he must get involved. He gave a year to the church. During that time the Lord began to work.
