Handswoth re-visited.

I was Pastor at Handsworth "Full Gospel Church" from 1987 to 1994. My Sabbatical wanderings took me back there this morning. They were always warm, welcoming and generous people and still are. It is 15 years since I was at a morning service there. The 'Handsworth Youth' of those days are now veterans - youthful veterans with a sense of humour which was evidenced in the annual church show. Ray Burton's comic songs made me cry with laughter. He and Paul Bennett's performances were supported by Jonathan, Terence and Michael. They were side achingly funny. They are still warm and welcoming people who know how to laugh.



So today was a very good experience for me. The young people leading worship were musically gifted. Loud! But here I show my age! What was on offer today clearly has a strong appeal. These Sabbatical visits remind me that there are many different kinds of churches for many different kinds of people.



Iain was the preacher today. He came to Handsworth as Youth Pastor during my time there and is now part of the leadership team. It was a good sermon with depth and it was well delivered.



This morning I remembered some of the lovely old people who were there when I came to Handsworth now long gone. I'm glad to have been a part of the church's history.