United Kingdom
‘Gobsmacked’ by church’s love
A church in the fabled city of Nottingham, England — where a dastardly sheriff once hunted a thief named Robin Hood — hosted an event called “2010 Celebration” recently.
But the name of the event referred to more than just the year, missionary Bob Eckman said. “2010 happens to mark 20 years since we started this church plant in Nottingham and 10 years since we moved into our building,” he said.
Members of the Stapleford Church of Christ in Nottingham gathered to share memories of the congregation — good and bad. Eckman recalled an early gospel meeting attended by five people — himself, his wife, his two coworkers and the guest speaker. Church members also recalled fond memories of the congregation, which now has about 55 members.
“Many tears were shed as well as many howls of laughter as everyone spoke highly of the blessing of being a part of the Nottingham church,” Eckman said. Participants also split into groups and discussed how they can better serve their community in the years ahead.
During the celebration, church members presented Eckman with a card signed by all the members and gift certificates for a 30-minute flight in a vintage, open-cockpit aircraft and a vacation in Ireland.
“As they say here in England, I was ‘gobsmacked’ … speechless,” Eckman said. “This is a great church. We have our ups and downs, as does any church, but God continues to bless us in amazing ways.”
WEBSITE: www.nottinghamchurchofchrist.org.uk
But the name of the event referred to more than just the year, missionary Bob Eckman said. “2010 happens to mark 20 years since we started this church plant in Nottingham and 10 years since we moved into our building,” he said.
Members of the Stapleford Church of Christ in Nottingham gathered to share memories of the congregation — good and bad. Eckman recalled an early gospel meeting attended by five people — himself, his wife, his two coworkers and the guest speaker. Church members also recalled fond memories of the congregation, which now has about 55 members.
“Many tears were shed as well as many howls of laughter as everyone spoke highly of the blessing of being a part of the Nottingham church,” Eckman said. Participants also split into groups and discussed how they can better serve their community in the years ahead.
During the celebration, church members presented Eckman with a card signed by all the members and gift certificates for a 30-minute flight in a vintage, open-cockpit aircraft and a vacation in Ireland.
“As they say here in England, I was ‘gobsmacked’ … speechless,” Eckman said. “This is a great church. We have our ups and downs, as does any church, but God continues to bless us in amazing ways.”
WEBSITE: www.nottinghamchurchofchrist.org.uk
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