MY wife got thrown out of church last weekend! Imagine – the vicar’s wife being turned out onto the street. What a scandal!

You think I’m joking, don’t you? But it’s true – she really was taken out of the door by the preacher as I sat there in stunned silence (yes, I know I don’t often sit in silence in a service but never mind).

Actually Kim and I were part of a larger congregation gathered for the opening of a new church in Stanford-le-Hope.

Her “eviction” was part of a visual aid used by the minister to make a point. She did come back, I’m pleased to say!

Gateway People’s Centre is the name of the new Pentecostal gathering in Stanford town centre under the leadership of Pastor Dave Puddle.

They have taken over and renovated the old Co-op building on the corner of Central Road next to the Cenotaph. What a transformation there has been to the place! A tired and derelict building that was once a refuge for drug addicts and vandals has now become place of hope and life in our town.

Gateway People’s Centre is going to make a big impact on our town, as it partners with St. Margaret’s and other churches in the area. It will also be putting a lot back into the community, offering meeting facilities, volunteering opportunities and Big Society type ventures!

For once, a sad old building that has stood empty for years has become a beacon of joy offering the possibility of change.

My boss is very pleased! There’s a verse in the good book that says we should ask the “Lord of the harvest to send more workers into His harvest field.”

Well, He certainly answered that prayer!

I am delighted to welcome a “new branch” into the area and hope that it means a few more of us getting “turned out on to the street”.

It could mean more hope for Stanford, more hope for Thurrock and more hope for you! – John.