Sharon works for a company that provides care and support to vulnerable adults. Amongst other things she is involved in arranging their training, matching them with appropriate carers and support workers and then helping them to find employment. She also works part time as a fitness instructor, teaching the Vibe Cycle concept - (a derivative of spinning) - cycling to the rhythm and beat of music...lots of fun and lots of hard work!!
How did you become a Christian?
I became a Christian when I was about 18. I grew up in the Christian
faith with mum, sister and aunt, but I would say that I didn't fully embrace God and Jesus until I was 41.
What does this mean to you?
For me it means complete freedom and peace, free from guilt and shame. I recently bought an Amplified Bible and it describes God's grace as 'undeserved and unmerited favour'. How can you not fall in love with, worship and honour someone who paid such a price for you - an act that we don't deserve?
How did you start coming to SHCF?
I started coming 2 years ago this September. For about a year, God put people in my path who were all Christians and I became really close to two members of SHCF. When I could no longer ignore what God was saying to me, I came along....and I've been coming ever since!
What do you enjoy most about being in God's family?
That it is God's family and that I have the privilege of being loved by the Most High, King of Kings and Lord of Lords and that my name is written in the Book of Life.
What do you find most amazing about God?
His grace....even when I don't deserve it!
Sharon is part of the greetings team and hospitality team at church, so you may very well be welcomed by her if you visit! She also puts church members through 'Boot Camp' training sessions at church week-ends away!!
Asish came up through our Youth Meetings, has left school and is now working as a radio operator.
How did you become a Christian?
My family is a mixture of Hindus and Buddhists, but only my mum is a Christian. It started when I was a little kid of about 5, living with my mum back in Nepal. She used to take me to church with her and I just followed her in the faith since then.
How did you start coming to SHCF?
In 2008 my Mum found out about this church when we were living locally. My first day here was when there was a Youth Club on a Friday. I met lots of new people and the atmosphere was great so I found that very interesting. I have been coming to church since that day and I was baptised in November 2013 on the confession of my faith in Jesus as my Saviour.
Which Bible verses have been meaningful to you over the last few weeks?
Proverbs 3: 5&6
'Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.'
What have you learned about God this year?
I think that when we ask or want anything to be done, it may not work to our time, bit if we keep faith and trust in Him, God will work in His time.
What is your favourite Christian song?
Matt Redman '10,000 Reasons' - everybody loves it!
Bless the Lord oh my soul, Oh my soul
Worship His Holy name
Sing like never before, Oh my soul
I'll worship Your Holy name.
The sun comes up - It's a new day dawning
It's time to sing Your song again
Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me
Let me be singing when the evening comes
You're rich in love and You're slow to anger
Your name is great and Your heart is kind
For all Your goodness I will keep on singing
Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find
And on that day when my strength is failing
The end draws near and my time has come
Still my soul will sing Your praise unending
Ten thousand years and then forevermore.
(Matt Redman)