Story of Rasen church told

The author is Paul Hiley, who founded Market Rasen New Life Church more than three decades ago and was its pastor from 1986 to 2017.

Paul admitted it does not seem the ‘best of times’ to be launching a book with all book shops closed and no social gatherings allowed, describing it as ‘a bit like launching a boat when the tide is out’.

As has been the experience on many people during the coronavirus lockdown, Paul turned to an online platform for the official launch.

He said: “I thought it went really well.

“There were 64 people on the Zoom launch on May 23 - and we are going to do it all again this Saturday, June 6 and everyone will be welcome to join us.”

The launch event saw church leader Mike May interview Paul about his book and experiences.

There will be a similar format for this Saturday’s event.

Paul said: “I never thought I would write a book, especially about the church, but God did something in my spirit just about a year after I retired.

“I suddenly felt ‘Yes I should write the story of the church’ Why? Because a lot of people don’t know it and who else can set down the memorial stones?

“God accomplished a miracle in establishing this church 34 years ago and I don’t want it to be forgotten.”

Paul continued: “There were actually 12 people in our front room in the beginning and the book is about all the amazing things our Big God has done over the past 45 years, because this church had its foundations nearly 11 years before we actually opened our doors.

“It is written too for the thousands of others in similar small churches who put out the chairs, set up the pa, wash the cups, count the offerings, keep the books, prepare the worship and pray earnestly for their communities.

“All these folk need encouragement, because there are always set backs and disappointments-especially in small churches- and I trust they will find encouragement in these pages.”

‘Small Church, Big God’ is available to buy through Amazon (£7.99) and there is also a Kindle version available (£4.99).

Alternatively, contact Paul directly by email at paul.
[email protected].

He can then either post copies on request, at £5 plus p&p, or arrange collection.

The Zoom session today (Saturday) will start at 10.30am and last for approximately 30 minutes.

Paul added: “If you are able to join me - and help launch the boat - we can have a virtual coffee and a chat.

“The meeting ID: 851 982 3991 and the password is PaulH.”