Church plant to St Andrew's Moor Grange - update

Plans for the plant to St Andrew's, Moor Grange, continue to progress. The final funding bid has been submitted by the diocese, with news about it expected early March. The outcome of the bid will determine the nature and scale of what might be possible and will mean we can start making concrete plans around the building, team, dates and more.

In the meantime, Bev and Dave will be taking a small team to the 'Planting course', working alongside two other Leeds church planting teams looking to start in the next six months or so. This will be a chance to think through various aspects of vision and strategy, so that when the plant is sent out, there is some key foundation work already in place.

Because of the planting course, we have cancelled the planned meeting on Monday 9th Feb. In its place, we'd love to arrange to meet with anyone who is interested in the plant. Meeting up isn't a commitment to come, but a chance to chat through what's involved, what's planned as well as the unknowns and what we're asking God for. We want to help you discern whether God is sending you as a part of the planting team, or calling you to remain at St Paul's. We're happy to arrange to meet during the school day, in an evening or Sunday afternoon, and could meet at St Paul's, at yours or our house or online.

Many of you will be aware that Dave is recovering having broken his leg. He has a metal frame around it to help the healing process, which will remain for at least another 3 months. Thank you for your continued prayer and support. Dave has started a phased return to work, and will do more as his stamina and strength grow. While there are obvious frustrations working at a reduced capacity, we don't expect it to impact the planting journey. He is trying to grow more prayerful in the extra rest and recovery times.

We'd love you to pray for the following:

• The planting course - several Tuesday evenings thinking through different dynamics of church planting, and putting in place wise plans that equip the plant as the team is sent out.

• Funding decision day - Thursday 26th Feb - . We'd love you to fast with us as the Church of England funding board decides whether to approve the funding bid.

• Team - pray that God would give wisdom and clarity to those who are discerning whether He is calling them to join the plant

• Bev, Dave and their family - as we continue to adjust to work and family life following Dave's injury. Pray for stamina, wisdom and grace.