If you are reading the newsletter today, it’s probably because The Grove is your local church. If that’s the case, then you can also know you are part of Jesus mighty plan to reach the people of this world. Through churches of all sizes and styles, the light of Jesus shines life and hope into neighbourhoods wherever they are planted. 

 

Right now, we are hearing some incredible stories of God working through his church. Stories that run parallel with news stories recording a different narrative. 

 

·      We read about distressing loss of life in Iran after the protests, yet at the same time Jesus church has been growing rapidly in a phenomenal underground movement. 

·      There are countless travel blogs about amazing places to visit in France, but in Toulouse the traditional church can’t keep up with baptisms because so many students are turning to Christ. 

·      Nigeria has experienced waves of violent and extreme persecution against the church, yet it’s the fastest growing church in Africa and a Christian powerhouse. 

 

There is so much darkness, and reasons to be deeply concerned about the state of the world and our own nation too. But there is also another story being written by the author of life. A story that shows how God moves in great power and love, wherever he is wanted. 

God comes where he is wanted.

 

Last year we heard so many encouraging stories from people in our church whose lives turned around. We witnessed Jesus reaching a new generation who are hungry for him. God is moving in The Grove, and there is much more to come than what's behind us.  

 

If God comes where is he wanted, may we let him know in prayer and through the openness and willingness of our faith, that he is wanted here in 2026. Join us this Wednesday through to Friday for our Look Up prayer event. See inside for times, but let’s pray that we want the Spirit to move in our hearts, our church and neighbourhood.

 

We also want God to come and grow our faith, and to empower us to live out our calling to share his love and message with others. If you want to connect with God and explore what faith means, come to the Alpha dinner or invite a friend. Maybe it’s the year to join a Connect Group for our All In series. There are children in our local schools who want to know about Jesus, but we need to fill two more RI spots with people who don’t want kids to miss out on this God given opportunity. See inside for more details. 

 

God is moving through his church, wherever his church wants him to come. May that be the cry of our heart this year; God you are wanted here. 

 

Marty