Once upon a time, there was a… oh sorry, wrong story!
Our story began over 30 years ago, when Darren and Kathryn where born in Bury. Unaware of the plans God had in store for them, they grew up in a local church, learnt stories of God’s power in ‘Sunday school’ and at home in Christian families. Darren knew from an early age that God wanted him to do something significant, but he had no idea what. Kathryn, on the other hand, took a while longer. It wasn’t until her late teenage years that she encountered God’s power and fell deeply in love with Jesus! By this time they were attending a church in Bolton, formerly known as Bolton Pentecostal Church. Kathryn quickly became an intern on the schools team and youth ministry.
In the summer of 1999 they where leaders at a youth camp. One evening, during a meeting, God spoke to them both saying, “Go home & tell everyone what I have done for you.” Mark 5:19.
Shortly after in the year 2000, Darren & Kathryn got married and knew things were about to change. On return they arranged to meet their Pastor, Ian, and share with him what they felt God had said. By January 2001, Darren had quit his job as an audiologist and became a trainee, pastoral assistant, to learn and grow, and Kathryn continued in the youth ministry.
In 2005 the vision for Bury began to grow in their hearts and a new sense of urgency arose within them. After discussions with their Pasto,r they began to plan a way forward with open minds and excited hearts. In January 2006 it was decided that Darren and Kathryn would be released from (now known as) the Bridge Church, Bolton, to pioneer a brand new church in the heart of Bury and unfold the vision He had given them 6 years ago, with the leadership’s blessing.
With only £1000 and 6 people, they began to lay the foundations for Freedom Church…“Does anyone dare despise this day of small beginnings? “ Zechariah 4:10 (The Message).
It began on the 2nd April 2006. This was the birth of Freedom!
Up to date:
Pastors Darren and Kathryn have now been pastoring Freedom for over five years. It’s grown in so many ways, most importantly in strength, stature and influence. Recently Ps. Kathryn said, “Sundays are the icing on the cake of all that God is doing in people’s lives, seeing His Story weaving through lives, creating new stories of hope and new life.” That’s what it’s all about!
We’ve just embarked upon an exciting new journey of leasing our own building, after eight different venues in five years. Yes, we said eight! This is going to be a great season of growth for us, as we put another stake in the ground, unpack some bags and create a home. Not for too long though, as we’re hoping we’ll be bursting at the seams very soon!!
