Foundations Magazine - Spring 2024 edition

SUPPORTING KINGDOM BUILDING

SUSTAINABLE PLACES OF WORSHIP

Inspiring environmental stewardship in church buildings

Also in this issue:

Growing in God’s Love

Preserving history and ensuring safety Empowering church planters

FOUNDATIONS

Welcome

Relationships are key; for life, for evangelism, for growth and for building sustainable communities/churches. This is one of the reasons why Church Growth Trust has “relationship” as one of its key values.

As individuals, we are not meant to live in isolation, and, as churches, although we are called to be holy, set apart and in the old English “peculiar” people, we are not to isolate ourselves from the world. In fact, we are called to engage with the world. How else can we always be ready to give a reason for the hope that we have (1 Peter 3:15)? Why else would Isaiah declare “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news” (Isaiah 52:7)?

Making our buildings attractive and accessible is important. Putting on events and activities is fine at one level, as it may attract people to come to your church building, but going to their homes and inviting people to your home is where deeper relations can form, trust builds and you earn the right to share the Gospel with people; real people who become real friends. This is what my wife and I are doing as we settle into a new village. We are engaging in village activities, whether this is “coffee and cake” at the village hall, a quiz evening at the pub, attending the parish church (where much to our surprise they served ginger wine and sherry after the service!) or the community shop next door; getting to know people, seeing who are “the people of peace” and inviting people to our home for coffee and a meal. Then we get to know them and what makes them tick. We are making friends, and we are taking opportunities to share the hope that we have.

Building relationships can be costly in time and commitment, and sometimes heartache. But it is worth it in the end. We want to be part of Jesus building His Church, making every effort to keep the unity He has given us and drawing others into that relationship. At Church Growth Trust, as we already try to build strong relationships with our occupying churches, we also want to build relationships with other trustees and church leaders so they know they can trust us and turn to us when they need help. That is what I enjoy so much about my work. I look forward to getting to know you better in the future!

Giles Arnold Chief Executive of Church Growth Trust

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Our latest news in brief

Living the Passion 2024‘Living Christ in Community’, with speaker Rico Tice

Friday 25 - Sunday 27 October 2024

Yarnfield Park Training and Conference Centre, Staffordshire

The ‘Living the Passion’ conference is back for 2024! The theme for this year is ‘Living Christ in Community’ and the speaker for Friday and Saturday will be Rico Tice, a wellknown evangelist, author and speaker. He will be sharing from Philippians on two vital topics – ‘Alive in Christ’ and ‘Living Christ in Community – don’t drift!’

Keynote speaker, Rico Tice - leading evangelist and founder of Christianity Explored Ministries

Hosted by four organisations working together in partnership – Church Growth Trust, Counties, Echoes International and GLO Europe – Living the Passion events aim to ‘fan the flames of passion for sharing the Gospel in the UK’. The Living the Passion Steering Group’s prayer is that people will come away energised, with a broader vision for sharing the Gospel.

The event programme includes:

• Break out seminars

• Worship

• Children’s programme

• Exhibition stands

• Fellowship

• Delicious food

• Tea, coffee, and conversation!

Whether you are coming alone, as part of a family, with a youth group, or with friends, there will be something for everyone. Additional speakers and seminars will be confirmed soon – please check the website and social media for further details.

Book online at www.livingthepassion.org

Looking for a church property?

Subscribe to CGT’s monthly Available Properties update

Searching for the perfect church property? Never sure where to look? Look no further. Church Growth Trust introduces an exclusive monthly email update, ensuring you are the first to discover new leasing opportunities in your area.

Sign up now to stay ahead of the curve and secure the ideal space for your congregation’s growth. Your future church property awaits – be the first to know.

Scan the QR code to sign up

Our journey to a sustainable Foundations magazine

The paper and printing sector is one of the lowest industrial emitters of greenhouse gases. In 2016, it accounted for less than 1% of all EU greenhouse gas emissions. However, it is important when we are thinking about printing that we think about sustainability as much as possible.

And this includes our Foundations magazine. CGT is taking significant strides towards sustainability by embracing environmentally friendly practices and responsible sourcing and production methods. We use FSCcertified paper sourced from well-managed forests and ISO 14001-accredited printers.

Church Growth Trust is always looking for good news to share. If you have an encouraging story about the ministry in your area or a building project you are working on, please contact our Communications Manager.

ISO 14001 standard is relevant to all types and sizes of organisations – including private, non-profit and governmental. It requires them to assess environmental issues relevant to their operations, such as waste management, resource use and efficiency.

A notable recent initiative involves our printing partners, who have recently installed solar panels on their factory roof. This move towards self-produced solar energy marks a substantial leap in reducing carbon footprint. Furthermore, we are now printing the magazine on recycled paper, mirroring the quality while enhancing sustainability.

Growing in God’s love

Read the second in a series of articles from our friends at Counties

The town of Brinnington sits on a hill overlooking the Tame Valley two miles north of Stockport and is the place around 8,000 people call home. Built in the sixties to house the ever-growing population of Stockport and Manchester, historically it has high levels of disaffection, unemployment and crime. Abuse of drugs and narcotics is common and the people of Brinnington have a lot to contend with. However, amid these challenges, one church is modelling God’s love to their neighbours through a remarkable project.

Brinnington Community Church is pastored by Martin Korchinsky who is also a Counties evangelist. “Around eight years ago, I was approached by a member of the community (not a churchgoer) who had secured funding for a community project and was looking for a home for it. They hadn’t thought about the church property as a place where it could grow, but when I suggested it, they agreed it was a great idea. We rent our building from Church Growth Trust (CGT), so I asked them if they would be happy for the church to host the project, funded by the charity Groundworks. With the green light given, work began on the Brinnington Community Garden run by the Green Thumbs community garden initiative.”

and placed on pallets. Filled with soil, each one was transformed into a raised plot for a local person. Well-drained and versatile, these gardens are sometimes planted up with flowers, but their owners mostly choose the self-sufficiency route, as Martin explains.

“At any one time, we might have potatoes, carrots, beans, peas, radishes, broccoli and mange tout growing. A lot of our gardeners enjoy growing food for the table and rotate their mini gardens with the seasons. Others have created fairy gardens for their grandchildren while others produce their own fruit and flowers. We have 36 containers at the moment and here at the church. We are delighted that so many people from our neighbourhood are coming up to enjoy the community garden. It’s wonderful to see friendships blossoming as people work with the soil.”

Martin himself had a background in gardening before he started working for the Lord 20 years ago. “The opportunity to chat with the

The funding paid for large, repurposed plastic water tanks which were cut in half 7

Martin Korchinsky

people in the garden, give advice on their crops and develop authentic relationships with them is a huge blessing. Most do not have a faith background and would not feel comfortable walking into a church building, but they have no problem in being part of the wider community which is being built on our grounds.”

The church offers a warm space three days a week which includes a hot lunch. Community groups such as AA, Food Bank, Weight Watchers and Narcotics Anonymous also meet there and some of the people who come to these groups have found a faith. Most have no Christian background at all, but because of the gentle evangelism and transformational friendships with people of faith, they are finding Jesus for themselves. Martin looks on the garden and the community activities as a stepping stone into church.

“Many of the people in our neighbourhood suffer from anxiety, isolation and loneliness. Around a quarter of Brinnington’s residents have a serious health condition and around 8% receive benefits for mental health conditions. Having a friendly, welcoming place where they can come, and garden with others outside in the fresh air, is really helping them with their mental health. Many now feel comfortable enough to access some of the groups we offer and even come to some of our services.”

Julie is one of the people benefiting from the community garden. “At one point, I was drinking a bottle of vodka a day. I stayed indoors for around four years and was in a bad way. Nowadays, they can’t keep me inside! There’s just something about the soil. If I’m having a down day and I go and do some digging or gardening, it just lifts me up.”

The garden has turned a fairly bland outdoor space into a bio-diverse, sustainable green area. There is more wildlife, attracted by the wide variety of flowers, fruit and vegetable

plants, old water tanks and pallets are being upcycled and repurposed instead of being dumped and precious natural resources are being used wisely without depletion.

Issues around mental health are being dealt with through the community garden and its unique ability to bring people together in a safe, creative space. In addition, the church’s open door policy, offering friendship, support and gentle evangelism is encouraging some

local people to start to explore faith. Several are taking communion while others now attend Sunday services regularly.

This respectful and loving attitude to sharing the Gospel is a unique blend of the indoors and outdoors working together in a harmonious whole. The garden has had an entirely positive and transformational effect on the community and its inhabitants’ wellbeing.

Whatever the size of a congregation or its location, through authentic and respectful relationship-building and a focus on sustainability, the Good News of Jesus can be shared with a much wider audience. In Brinnington, a thriving community project is bringing joy into lives which have often been beset with challenges and is signposting people to the Lord.

Community lunch group

Giles Arnold, Chief Executive of CGT says, “I have known Martin and his wife Angie for many years, having supported them through the Church Planting Initiative when he was first planting Brinnington Community Church. I have a huge respect for the way he keeps on

going, loving the people of the Brinnington Estate and sharing the Gospel with them. We were delighted to support the Community Garden project, as we see this as a natural development of the work Martin and others from the church are doing.”

By Ruth Leigh.

If you build it, they will come

David Powe, along with his son Thomas, shares how he has transformed a rundown empty chapel in Little Sodbury into a vibrant community hub

“Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago.”

(Isaiah 25:1)

The village of Little Sodbury in Gloucestershire punches well above its weight when it comes to Gospel fame. William Tyndale began translating the Bible at a local manor house and the local Baptist Association built the chapel here in 1910. David Powe, a retired vicar who spent twenty-five years as a prison chaplain, leased the building from CGT in June 2023. Along with his son Thomas, they have transformed the rundown empty chapel into a vibrant community hub. David takes up the story.

“I spent years working with men in prisons who knew absolutely nothing about Jesus or the Bible. I had a vision of building a place

where they could come to hear the Gospel, but which wasn’t a church. I started to build a shepherd’s hut, but it wasn’t sustainable. I sold it and banked the profit. I’d been driving past the old Tyndale Baptist Chapel on Sodbury Common for years and one day my wife said to me, ‘Why are you trying to build a hut when there’s one right in front of you?’ CGT were amazingly helpful and we leased the building to build a small Christian Trust to spread the Good News.”

God released gifts of time and talent from the local community to get the chapel modernised and up and running.

“Thomas mentioned the project to some

David Powe

builder friends and they donated paint, fixed the lights, plumbed and tiled the outside loo and worked with us to transform the old building. Someone even donated an entire kitchen! We repurposed so much that would have been wasted.”

It was not long before the Shepherd’s Hut was completely decorated, with an accessible toilet and a welcoming interior, full of comfortable chairs, more like a tearoom than a chapel. Since September 2023, people who may never have visited a conventional church building have been coming to meet and several have given their lives to Christ. Not content with this, David and Thomas turned their attention to the grounds outside the Shepherd’s Hut.

“We are creating a Prayer and Reflection Garden. We have received generous donations of plants mentioned in the Bible and we are constructing a fountain, seating and putting Bible verses up around the garden. One of our visitors said ‘I feel so peaceful up here. This is a place I love and I feel so much better in.’ Our vision is that the whole community can come here, sitting peacefully in our garden, contemplating life and faith. It was a small grass field, originally

to be used as a car park, but now growing weeds. It is being transformed into a beautiful reflective space.”

During the work on the chapel, David realised that there are few places for people to sit quietly locally since there is so much building work going on and several busy roads. This community garden, being restored with the help of many generous donations, will be wonderfully sustainable. Wildlife such as bees, butterflies and wild birds will be drawn to the fountain, foliage and rewilded space and it is all being achieved through radical generosity.

“God told me: ‘You do it David and I will bless it.’ Our community has supported us so wonderfully, as has CGT. I can’t thank John Duffield and the team enough. They have been a key part of our ministry here at the Shepherd’s Hut.”

The ministry has not been without its challenges. Early in the project, some people thought it was a traditional church, but they were reassured it was not. In addition, some were nervous about what would be done on the land, but now that they can see that David and Thomas have left the structure intact and improved the interior out of all recognition and support for the beautiful prayer garden is pouring in. Would David encourage other churches to do the same?

“Certainly. If the Lord tells you to do something, do it. He will be faithful. The Shepherd’s Hut and the Prayer and Reflection Garden are living proof of that.”

By Ruth Leigh

Ruth is a freelance writer who works with a number of Christian charities.

Empowering church planters

Taking a closer look at M4 Europe

In the dynamic landscape of contemporary Christianity, initiatives like M4 are revolutionising the approach to church planting. But what exactly is M4, and why is it gaining momentum in the UK and beyond?

M4 Europe is not just any organisation – it is a movement. Its mission is to help local and national leaders work together to find, evaluate, train, and support church planters and their teams. The aim is to establish thriving, growing churches that honour God and make a positive impact on society.

M4 Europe is a network, not a funding organisation, which fosters self-sustainability at all levels. This relational and operational network helps self-supporting movements in more than 15 European nations, including M4 UK. But what sets M4 apart from traditional approaches to church planting?

The local church is still the primary tool of God to reach the UK, where local areas are all wonderfully different. But we need more communities of faith in the years to come, led by a variety of people called by God, in strong relationships with other local churches. Churches may have gifted potential leaders in their midst, but you don’t currently have the capacity or experience to train them. M4 UK trains leaders under oversight from their church, so they can be effective in their local area. M4 UK is a fantastic resource to equip church planters in growing small teams to develop new local community churches.

Luiz Cardozo, Leader of M4 UK

Luiz Cardoso, leader of M4 UK, commented, “I have planted churches for over 20 years, and I wish I had the M4 Team Process when I started. Through assessment, training and coaching (the ABC of church planting), M4 promotes a healthy and successful pathway for a planting team.”

The M4 Team Process provides essential support for church planting teams in the critical first two to three years of church planting. By leveraging the collective wisdom and experience of seasoned church planters in the UK, M4 fosters an environment where emerging leaders can thrive and grow alongside established mentors.

Luiz continues “For me, the unique points of M4 are that it is European birthed, process oriented, empowering indigenous leaders, team focused and has both online and offline training.”

Additionally, the M4 Ready training process serves as a foundational component, empowering young leaders to discern their unique gifts and calling for ministry, particularly in the realm of church planting. This preparation is crucial for navigating the challenges and opportunities inherent in planting and sustaining a new church community.

In a country like the UK, where only a small fraction of the population identifies as evangelical Christians, there is a pressing need for innovative approaches to evangelism and discipleship. M4 seeks to address this need by catalysing the establishment of new churches that embody the life-changing message of Jesus Christ.

But who are M4 tools for? The answer is simple: anyone who feels called as the leader or member of a new church community. From experienced pastors seeking a fresh challenge to aspiring leaders on their first planting journey.

The two-and-a-half-year M4 Team Process, rooted in the Great Commission, combines inperson and online learning, coaching sessions and supervision to equip participants for launching vibrant church communities. With an emphasis on collaboration, participants form small teams and connect with a broader community of like minded individuals, fostering camaraderie.

Progressing through the process challenges leaders on the core principles of leading and teams, evangelism and mission, discipleship and multiplication, and growth and movement. This creates a framework for effective ministry and sustainable church growth. M4 Team Process is more than a training programme – it is a movement reshaping church planting globally, empowering a new generation for Christ.

If you sense that you and your team would like to be part of this, feel free to contact the M4 UK leader Luiz F. Cardoso

Email: luiz@m4europe.org

Mobile: 07572 136825

Website: m4europe.org/m4-uk

Sustainable places of worship

Inspiring environmental stewardship in church buildings

Never before has it been so apparent that our world needs to be nurtured and cared for. Climate change, deforestation and rapidly disappearing species remind us that we have a duty as Christians, to care for our environment.

Psalm 24:1-2 underlines this godly truth. ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters.’

As Church Growth Trust (CGT) continues to work with partners all over the country, the need to develop outreach and improve our buildings without depleting the earth’s natural resources is very much at the forefront of policies and vision. As Christians, we are stewards of the Lord’s creation and we believe that churches have a responsibility to be environmentally sensitive and to model authentic sustainability.

At the foot of the Marlborough Downs in Wiltshire is the village of Wroughton, home of Discovery Church. The original assembly had dwindled to a handful and eventually closed, resulting in CGT letting the building to this new church. The congregation moved into the former Markham Road Gospel Hall in the spring of 2022. The hall was constructed over 50 years ago and since moving in, the church have put in new windows and doors to reduce heat loss and installed a new kitchen and toilets. Pastor Geoff Naylor takes up the story.

“When we took over the building, it was cold and in need of modernisation. We investigated having gas connected to the hall and fitting a new boiler, but the cost quoted

was high. We wanted to investigate more sustainable solutions, so considered the possibility of having solar panels and batteries fitted. We need a warm building as we are starting to grow and work on our outreach programme with activities such as Alpha and a foodbank. We spoke to CGT and they agreed that our idea was feasible. We now have 20 panels on the main roof and our flat roof, angled to get the benefit of the sun all day long. Rather than ripping out the original radiators, we have kept them and fitted timers so that we can efficiently pre-heat the building before an event.”

This pioneering action (the first in a CGT property) is already bearing fruit. The panels can generate 8 Kilowatts of energy but during a Sunday morning in the winter, the church can consume 60 kWh in total, only some of which is supplied by the battery. During the summer, however, all electricity needs are self-generated. The church has also had cavity wall insulation added which is already making a difference as the building now retains precious heat far more efficiently.

“Our local solar farm gave us a grant of £3,000 and we have applied for another grant for the cavity wall insulation. In the summer we will be able to save all the energy we generate for the winter. We made the decision to go down this road in August 2023 and the

whole system was installed by the beginning of November. Our experience has been very good and we would certainly recommend it as an energy saver and a way of being more sustainable. In the first ten months of operation, we were paid £764 for the electricity we fed back into the grid which has been a huge encouragement.”

In South Yardley, Birmingham, Waterloo Road Chapel has seen a reduction in its heating bills since smart plugs and smart controls were fitted on the electric convection heaters. Church leader Richard Beresford explains.

“We used to have timers on our heaters, but the problem was that someone had to drive to the chapel on Saturday and set them. I tried out a smart meter at home and was very impressed with the ease of use and installation. As a result, we decided to download the Tapo app onto a stalwart church member’s phone (Chris) around a year ago. Our building is quite old and can get very cold, but since Chris took over, he can manage the heating and set the timings wherever he is, from his phone. We have noticed a reduction in our heating bills and of course, we don’t have to spend money on petrol to drive to the hall to set the timers anymore. That has reduced emissions from a car journey as well. We saved money by buying the meters and plugs in bulk. They cost around £10 each which we thought was very reasonable. Valuable energy and time are no longer being wasted. It is easy to use and we have a warm building. We would certainly recommend this option to other churches.”

New Life Church in Emerson Park have been renting their premises from CGT since 2016 and, with the help of CGT, have transformed it from a shabby and uninviting building into a smart, contemporary property that has drawn many compliments from passersby and residents. Energy bills decreased when new doors and windows were put in, reducing draughts. But in a continued effort

to live sustainably and holistically, team leaders Ernest and Wola Akwenuke have now installed brand new heaters with smart controls. Like Waterloo Road Chapel, New Life has seen a further reduction in their energy bills and they have been able to plan the heating of their hall. Their building is now warmer and uses electricity more efficiently, something which can only benefit their growing congregation. Simple and relatively cheap to install, smart controls are the way forward for churches who want to live lightly.

Miracle House in Wickford, Essex is occupied by New Life Church Crouch Valley. When CGT built the new church building for them in 2014, they installed air source heat pumps. This was partly due to the high cost of installing a gas supply, but also to provide

a more environmentally friendly heating system. Part of the church’s vision is to reflect their Christian values to the community by modelling environmental responsibility. Using the bright, welcoming, modern building, which is centrally located on a large housing estate, the church hosts Sunday gatherings and a very popular café which is much used by local people. By heating Miracle House in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner, New Life Church are demonstrating their commitment to environmental

stewardship to all the people who pass through every week. They also have a beautiful garden at the rear of the church building, planted with bee and butterfly-loving plants, encouraging pollinators and native fauna. A welcoming and open green space for the people of the estate, it is often used by young families and those who come to enjoy the services that New Life Church offers.

New windows at Emerson Park Evangelical Church Hornchurch

Hot water tank and valves from the air source heat pump at Miracle House, Wickford

Smart heating controls

Community garden

Wickford

At the heart of what Church Growth Trust does is the vision of glorifying God by making its church buildings fit for their God-given purpose, better enabling occupying churches to spread the Good News of Jesus. Being environmentally responsible is part of this, and to see so many churches reduce their carbon footprint, improve their sustainability and model God’s love for his creation through improvements to their buildings is a wonderful witness.

Grants are available for changes large and small and the team at Church Growth Trust are always happy to help and signpost where required. Giles Arnold, Chief Executive at CGT, adds,

“I commend the commitment demonstrated by these churches towards environmental responsibility. The stories shared here exemplify our shared duty as Christians to care for God’s creation. By prioritising sustainability, we not only fulfil our responsibility as stewards, but also

Useful resources

Significant changes to Building Regulations took effect in 2022 including increased standards of insulation and ventilation in all building works. Visit our website to find out more:

churchgrowth.org.uk/energyefficiency-updates-to-buildingregulations-2010-june-2023/

contribute positively to the well-being of our communities and mean we are good witnesses. We look forward to working together with more churches to help them make a meaningful impact while spreading the good news of Jesus.”

If you or your church would like to find out more about any of the ways you can be more environmentally aware, call our team on 01536 201339 or email enquiries@churchgrowth.org.uk

By Ruth Leigh

Ruth is a freelance writer who works with a number of Christian Charities.

Preserving history and ensuring safety Restoration works in Lewisham

In the heart of Lewisham stands the Loampit Gospel Hall, a modest three-story testament to community and worship.

Within its unassuming brick walls lies a history steeped in devotion, having been built for the Presbyterian Church of Wales in 1901 and then occupied by the Open Brethren since the 1920s. However, recent signs of wear threatened to compromise its integrity. Yet, in the face of this unforeseen challenge, CGT, as the Sole Trustee of the building, took decisive action to secure its future.

The charm of Loampit Gospel Hall lies in its simplicity - brick walls and a hipped slated roof, partially concealed by a parapet wall finished in a castle turret style. The ground floor houses the main worship space, along with essential facilities such as WCs and a smaller hall. The upper two floors offer a residential flat, currently occupied by a tenant. However, a routine survey unveiled subtle signs of wear that, if left unattended, could compromise the safety and longevity of this cherished landmark.

Visual cues such as cracks and deflection in the top corners of the parapet walls, along with leaning disused chimney stacks, prompted CGT to act. Understanding the need for a thorough assessment, CGT engaged a chartered surveyor to scrutinise these areas in detail. The surveyor’s report painted a concerning picture - progressive movement in the high-level parapet walls and chimney stacks, indicating the necessity for remedial action.

The recommended solution was not a simple fix. The surveyor advised carefully dismantling and rebuilding the worst-affected parts of the parapet wall, incorporating appropriate structural ties. Moreover, considering the disuse of the chimney stacks, it was economically sensible to opt for removal of these rather than repair.

However, navigating the restoration path was far from straightforward. When initial discussions with the assembly aimed at arranging repairs took place, an alternative proposition emerged. Rather than taking down and rebuilding the parapet wall, a better option would have been to not rebuild the parapet; but rather to form a simpler applied gutter detail at the eaves. The idea was to mitigate the risk of future issues with the parapet wall. However, the building’s ‘Place of Worship’ status posed challenges, requiring a planning application to seek consent from the Local Planning Authority (LPA) for these external modifications.

Despite CGT’s efforts, the proposed change was refused by the LPA. The refusal emphasised the importance of the existing parapet wall as an architectural feature integral to the building’s identity. With no alternative, CGT pivoted to the original plan, opting for the repair of the existing parapet walls, a decision grounded in the commitment to preserving the historical significance of Loampit Gospel Hall and ensuring it was safe and practical to use in the future.

Visible cracks to parapet walls

CGT arranged the works, beginning with the preparation of drawings and a schedule showing the extent of the work required. Securing suitable building contractors for the specialised masonry repairs at height proved challenging, but through CGT’s network, willing contractors were found. A meeting on-site with the lowest priced contractor facilitated an agreement on the scope of the works before formalising the arrangement with a building contract.

Executing the repairs required the erection of an extensive scaffold to ensure safe access to the high-level parapet walls. This, however, triggered the need to seek consent from neighbouring property owners due to the scaffold over-sailing the roof of an adjacent dwelling. Open communication and sharing the scaffold design with neighbours resulted in written consent, eliminating the need for a permit from the local council (which would have been required if the scaffolding was placed over the pavement/road).

Ensuring a holistic approach to safety, CGT informed the building insurers about the upcoming works, providing all necessary details, including Public Liability and Employers Liability insurance held by the contractor. This ensured that the existing insurance policy for the building would continue to cover it during the restoration process.

The multifaceted nature of the restoration, involving multiple contractors and subcontractors, necessitated the involvement of a Principal Designer under the Construction, Design, and Management Regulations (2015). CGT assumed this role, requiring the contractor to provide appropriate risk assessments and method statements for their work. Discussions also extended to the welfare facilities for the workforce, with the contractor utilising part of the existing facilities within the building in agreement with the assembly.

An additional layer of coordination involved ensuring the church’s continued use of the building for Sunday services throughout the works. Collaborative arrangements were made with the contractor to minimise disruptions, and regular communication was maintained with the tenant in the residential flat to address any concerns or inconveniences.

The restoration journey faced its share of weather-related challenges. Operational delays pushed the start of the work into October, and a colder and wetter-thanaverage winter impacted the schedule. Frosty conditions posed constraints on masonry repair and repointing work, but strategic planning allowed the work to proceed, protecting completed elements when required. The presence of scaffolding also presented an opportunity to carry out local pointing repairs to the facade, addressing additional maintenance needs.

The significance of these restoration efforts extended beyond the preservation of

Scaffolding oversailing the roof of the adjacent dwelling

aesthetics. Public safety was paramount, considering the progressively worsening structural issues with the parapet walls and chimneys. Left unaddressed, these elements could have failed, posing severe implications due to their weight and height. The restoration works succeeded in returning the building to a safe state, ensuring not only its physical integrity but also its continued use as a place of worship.

In reflecting on the completion of the Loampit Gospel Hall restoration project amidst challenging circumstances, CGT Chief Executive, Giles Arnold, expressed heartfelt gratitude and optimism. He remarked, “The success of this project, achieved in the face of considerable challenges, is truly an answer to prayer. We are immensely thankful for the unwavering support of the community, the dedication of the whole team, and, most importantly, for God’s grace that made this restoration possible.”

With a spirit of gratitude, Giles concluded, “As we witness the successful completion of this project at Loampit Gospel Hall, we give thanks to God for guiding us through every challenge. His grace has been evident at every turn, and we are excited about the renewed

opportunities for the occupying assembly to serve and witness to their community that the restoration work will enable.”

The narrative of Loampit Gospel Hall’s restoration is one of careful planning, adaptability, and good collaboration. As the scaffolding comes down and the echoes of restoration fade away, Loampit Gospel Hall stands tall once more.

If you have specific enquiries relating to your church property or think CGT can help you with a building project, please contact CGT’s Architect, Jonny Heaney.

By Jonny Heaney RIBA, CGT Architect

Jonny is married to Emma, and they are currently renovating their home in Wales. Jonny is a Chartered Architect joining CGT back in 2020. If you have specific enquiries relating to your church property and how to make it more environmentally friendly, please contact Jonny.

t: 01536 647162

m: 07729 082 501

jonny.heaney@churchgrowth.org.uk

The finished works

Life is a journey

An update from Giles Arnold, Chief Executive

We are encouraged to keep in step with the Spirit, because life is a journey with the Lord. Giles Arnold, Church Growth Trust’s Chief Executive can testify to that, as he has seen the Lord lead him and Church Growth Trust over these last 14 years.

From him and the Office Administrator working part-time from his front room to now having eight members of staff and offices in converted barns in Rutland, this has shown the blessing of the Lord and the growth of the work and ministry of Church Growth Trust (CGT). And now with Giles moving to Devon to look after his elderly parents he has experienced further change and another journey (literally).

As Giles puts it, “This is a demonstration of the Lord’s goodness, to enable me to move to another part of the country, but for the work of CGT to continue to grow. There is such a strong team with everyone playing their part so well. Over the years we have been able to offer more services to our occupying churches with regular visits by our Property Manager, as well as surveys and support with building projects from our Architect.

Our Property Administrator is helping churches keep on track with compliance issues and our Admin and Operations team keeps us moving with the accounts, systems and admin support that we need. I remember our Architect saying some years ago, when I was taking her to meet a few churches, that it felt like visiting family. This of course is what it is, as we are all part of the Lord’s family. It also feels like a journey that we are travelling and picking up friends on the way, all adding their expertise to the team, enabling us to continue this adventure with the Lord.”

Giles continues, “Although I am now working four days a week, I am still visiting churches and trustees of church properties around the country helping them secure their properties for future Gospel use. The Lord continues to grow this ministry as we are taking on 10-15 new properties and trusteeships each year. Our Communications Manager is getting in touch with many churches to ensure they know about our services.

She is discovering that many are struggling with low numbers, increased age and lack of

trustees; so, our work is even more vital these days. We are praying that more people who need our help will hear about us and join us in this journey.”

Over the last 20 years, Giles Arnold has been able to help many churches with advice on leases and purchases, as part of CGT’s consultancy services. This has now had to stop, due to him reducing his hours. “I have thoroughly enjoyed connecting with many churches around the country and helping them with negotiating leases; often seeing the same church taking a second or third lease or moving to a bigger building.

I am sad not to be able to offer this service anymore but am happy to recommend them to others who can do so.” Meanwhile, CGT’s architectural and surveying consultancy work continues to be available for independent evangelical churches.

With the Lord, the journey is never boring, as He opens up new opportunities and connects us with new people. We are grateful to all of you for joining us on this journey of faith to see the Church in this country growing and buildings continuing to be used for Gospel purposes.

By Giles Arnold Chief Executive

Giles has been managing Church Growth Trust since its inception in 2010 and before that worked for Stewardship. He leads the expanding team and is regularly meeting trustees and elders of independent churches, who are considering how CGT can help them with their properties. He works with other sister organisations on a national basis, including with church planting work and revitalisation of churches. He also specialises in advice on church and charity buildings, such as unravelling Trust Deeds.

Ten tips for making your building more environmentally friendly

In an era where environmental sustainability is at the forefront of global concerns, churches have a unique opportunity to lead by example. Not only does this contribute to a healthier planet, but it can also result in substantial cost savings. In this article, Church Growth Trust’s architect, Jonny Heaney, offers ten practical tips for making your church building more environmentally friendly, while simultaneously easing the strain on your budget.

1. Sustainable heating solutions

As your traditional gas boiler nears the end of its life, it is an opportune moment to consider more sustainable alternatives. Transitioning to more sustainable heating options such as

air source heat pumps or electric heating, coupled with photovoltaic solar panels and battery storage, not only reduces your church’s carbon footprint but can also lead to longterm savings on energy bills. Investing in these technologies may seem daunting initially, but the environmental and financial benefits make it a wise decision in the long run.

2. Switch to renewable energy

Consider the source of your church’s electricity, gas or oil. Making the switch to a renewable energy supplier is a straightforward and impactful way to reduce your church’s carbon emissions. Many churches have found success in securing favourable rates on renewable energy through collective purchasing initiatives like Church Buying - churchbuying.org.uk By joining forces with other congregations, you can harness the power of collective bargaining, making sustainable energy more accessible and affordable.

3. Insulate your roof

If your church building is due for a roof replacement, consider incorporating insulation into the design. While this may involve a slightly higher upfront cost, the long-term benefits are substantial. Insulated roofs provide improved energy efficiency, helping to regulate the temperature within the building. This can lead to significant savings on heating bills over time, making the investment a financially savvy and environmentally responsible choice. However, it is important to check that the existing roof structure can cope with the extra weight.

4. Embrace native wildlife

Whether your church property is urban or rural, the surrounding land can be transformed into a haven for native wildlife. Churches across the UK have a unique opportunity to contribute to the conservation of local biodiversity. Consider planting native

Encourage pollinators into your ouside space

plants and wildflowers to create habitats for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Installing water butts and maintaining natural boundaries like mixed hedges can further enhance the ecological value of your church grounds. To encourage bird and bat populations, erecting bird boxes and bat roosts is a simple yet effective measure.

5. Efficient lighting solutions

Switching to energy-efficient lighting can be a quick and impactful way to reduce your church’s energy consumption. LED bulbs, for instance, last longer and use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. Additionally, consider installing motion sensors or timers to ensure lights are only on when necessary. By embracing modern lighting technologies, you not only contribute to environmental conservation but also enjoy considerable savings on electricity bills.

6. Implement water conservation measures

Water conservation is a crucial aspect of environmental sustainability. Simple measures, such as installing low flow taps and toilets, can significantly reduce water consumption. Additionally, consider collecting rainwater using strategically placed water butts to irrigate church gardens or maintain outdoor spaces.

7. Eco-friendly building materials

When undertaking construction or renovation projects, opt for eco-friendly building materials. Sustainable options like recycled steel, reclaimed wood, and low-impact concrete contribute to a more environmentally conscious building. These materials not only have a lower carbon footprint but also often prove to be durable and cost-effective in the long term. Prioritising sustainability in your church’s infrastructure sets a precedent for responsible resource management.

8. Invest in renewable energy technology

Consider integrating renewable energy technologies directly into your church building. Solar panels, for example, can harness the power of the sun to generate electricity, reducing your reliance on conventional energy sources. While the initial investment may seem substantial, various government incentives and grants are available to support the adoption of renewable energy technologies, making it a financially viable option. There is also VAT relief available for churches on certain energy saving materials – visit www.gov.uk and search for ‘VAT energy-saving materials relief’. There could also be funding available through your local authority if the church building is available for community use/functions.

9. Educate and involve the congregation

Creating an environmentally friendly church involves the active participation of the congregation. Educate your members on the

Installing a solar cell on a roof

importance of sustainability and the positive impact their actions can have. Encourage practices such as carpooling to reduce carbon emissions from transportation and organise community clean-up events to foster a sense of environmental stewardship. By involving the congregation in these initiatives, you not only contribute to a greener community but also strengthen the bond within the church.

10. Conduct regular energy audits

To ensure that your church remains on track with its sustainability goals, conduct regular energy audits. Identify areas where energy efficiency can be improved and implement necessary changes. This proactive approach allows you to address issues promptly and optimise the performance of your church building, leading to ongoing cost savings and a reduced environmental footprint.

From embracing sustainable heating options to nurturing native wildlife on church grounds, each step contributes to a more ecofriendly and cost-efficient future. As church leaders, your commitment to environmental stewardship not only sets an example for the congregation but also positively impacts the broader community.

More useful information...

Energy Saving Trust

www.energysavingtrust.org.uk

An independent organisation offering free advice on becoming more energy efficient

HMRC

www.gov.uk

Search for ‘VAT energy-saving materials relief’ to find details of VAT relief available for churches using energy saving materials

Church Buying

www.churchbuying.org.uk

Secure favorable rates on renewable energy through this collective purchasing initiative

Ethical Property Foundation

www.propertyhelp.org/consultancy/ reduce-energy-bills

Ethical Property Foundation offers a survey to review your energy consumption

By Jonny Heaney RIBA, CGT Architect

Jonny is married to Emma, and they are currently renovating their home in Wales. Jonny is a Chartered Architect joining CGT back in 2020. If you have specific enquiries relating to your church property and how to make it more environmentally friendly, please contact Jonny.

t: 01536 647162

m: 07729 082 501

jonny.heaney@churchgrowth.org.uk

Chief Executive:

Giles Arnold

Operations Director:

Garryl Willis

Property Manager:

John Duffield

Trustees:

Neil Walker (Chair), Richard Canham, Richard Jones, Dan Leafe, Susanna Sanlon, Paul Withams.

Church Growth Trust

We are Church Growth Trust

...your experts in church properties. We aim to help independent churches grow by providing a professional and complete church property management service - from trusteeship to architectural support and everything in between. We also directly support church planting and revitalisation through our links with Counties and GLO Europe.

We do this because we want to help independent churches thrive in their mission withins the heart of their community by helping to keep church buildings for their original use and fit for purpose. We are passionate about offering our skills, experience and practical support in a way that serves the Church and sees God’s Kingdom grow.

The Barn, 1 Manor Farm Barns, Baines Lane, Seaton, Oakham, LE15 9HP

01536 201339

enquiries@churchgrowth.org.uk

www.churchgrowth.org.uk

Charity number: 1138119