5 years on for the Boultons

I've lifted today's post straight from facebook, where Rev. Alison Boulton noted that it was five years since she and her family moved into an almost empty housing development on the edge of Swindon:

5 yrs ago today I had just spent the first full day living in Wichelstowe. We lived here for the next month alone. It's strange now remembering how at night security gates were locked so that no one else could access the site! 

I have loved living here for the last 5 years and seeing a new community emerge. I looked back over some photos today and it was great to see Wichelstowe children I knew in the early days looking so young and sweet! 

It's been lovely to reflect on the last 5 years - on all the community activities, the new community groups and the birth of a church.
It has been great to meet so many new people and make new friends.
Thanks to everyone who have been part of this exciting journey.

Ali Boulton 

The Stowe was the first of WEBA's 'New Initiatives', and there are now several more developing around this region, including the group Dan and Beth Doherty are building in Portishead, and plans for a new expression of church in South Bristol.

We hope that our churches will continue to support these pioneers by giving both to Home Mission and the WEBA New Churches Initiative.

Home Mission: We encourage all our churches to give at least 5% of general income by standing order or by cheque to WEBA Home Mission.

New Churches Initiative: We encourage all our churches to give £200 annually (or £75 for smaller churches) - cheques payable to WEBA. Individuals can also give to the New Churches Initiative - contact office@webassoc.org.uk to request a standing order form.