 |
|
 |
|
Rev. Ann Varker |
|
Keith Crulley, Heather Woods, Barry Watkin, Ruth Hallatt |
I’ve been minister here since September 2020 when I moved up from my home county of Devon with my husband Julian.
I am passionate about taking the good news of Jesus into the community so like to get out of church and walk the local streets whenever I can, greeting those I meet.
Talk to me about anything you like, but especially worship, discipleship and Jesus. |
|
We are excited that Keith, Heather, Barry and Ruth are now leading our commitment to children and young people, along with a team of volunteers. |
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
Josh Simpson |
|
Boomie Shodeinde, |
My SRMC journey started at the age of 16 while doing our usual pre-show meditation to Ronan Keating’s ‘life is a rollercoaster’ at the church drama group, Spread. It was in the stillness of that moment a thought appeared in my head, but a thought that I had no part in thinking myself. It simply said ‘You need to come here’. The thought was definite and obvious, and I knew it was Jesus. I’m now 29 and have been here since!
Over the 13 years I’ve been here, I’ve served in different areas of the church - currently I’m a member of CYM (the children & youth team) of which I’m the project treasurer, and I also help to organise a monthly service called THE WAY which is for the whole circuit and has a contemporary style.
Coming from a different denomination, I have a passion for ecumenism and unity in the church.
Being part of the SRMC family has brought me closer to my God as I’ve learned from others here how to have intimacy with Jesus. My journey here and with Jesus has lead me to start the process of Discerning Ordained Vocation with the Methodist Church.
I like to talk about food, theatre - and of course Jesus! |
|
Boomie will introduce himself here soon.
|
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
Helen Johnson |
|
Sharon Mackie |
I have been worshipping at the Strathmore Road Methodist Church since my early 20s. I am proud that our church seeks justice and looks to serve those around us. I’m passionate about the church being an inclusive and open space for all and journeying together in the 21st Century.
I have a little boy and am involved with the family and youth work at our church including running our monthly Forest Church sessions.
Speak to me about this special gathering, questions around family activities and about inclusivity for all. |
|
I started at SRMC 11 years ago having searched long and hard for a place to worship and define my faith after leaving the Catholic Church.
I am involved in Sunday Club, Bridges and the worship band.
My passions are my family, Simon and our dogs Apple and Agnes.
I hope my time on leadership can move the church forward and keep up all the good work from the last 11 years. This church is at the very centre of my life and has shown me a way to worship God without guilt and regret.
Speak to me about anything, from church to dogs to Keswick. No subject is off limits.
|
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
Ann Dixon |
|
Sue Robson |
I have been part of SRMC all my life.
My faith was taught by my parents, 'caught' and challenged in the youth group, and supported, tested and developed by church family ever since.
Over the years I have been involved in youth work, worship, Alpha courses, pastoral care and many committees. |
|
I joined this church as a child in Sunday School in the 1960s, and have worshipped here and been active in many groups and committees ever since. Now, my husband, children and grandchildren in the church keep me connected with the hopes and dreams across the generations. I am currently Church Council Secretary, and have been involved with the mission and business of the Circuit and District too, so I can usually help if you need to know how things work and who does what.
Other things I enjoy are old-fashioned homecrafts, walking and pottering in the fresh air, and helping people resource their own passions (perhaps with stuff from my years of hoarding, or by putting them in touch with other people and places). |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Keith Crulley |
|
Christine Middlemiss |
I started coming to SRMC when I was a teenager and have been the part-time youth worker here for over 20 years.
I also work for Gateshead Council supporting families in the local area. In my spare time I love movies, retro games and the Lake District although I prefer a short, flat walk these days! I am passionate about seeing children and youth getting to know Jesus in an ‘all are welcome’ family church.
Talk to me about anything to do with children, families and youth. |
|
I began attending Strathmore Road 31 years ago when my then 7 year old daughter asked to go to church to learn about Jesus. I now attend with that same daughter and her children who are 12
and 8.
I am passionate about praying and meeting with others for prayer and listening to God.
I am involved in Little Gems toddler group and Sunday Club.
I enjoy family get togethers and walking my dog Jack.
Speak to me about Little Gems or if you need prayer. |
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
Heather Woods |
|
Barry Watkin |
I have been a Christian since the age of 18 and have just recently moved, with my husband and two children, to Strathmore Road Methodist Church after 13 years at another local church.
I enjoy being creative, spending time with my family and I’m passionate about placing value on others. My background is mostly youth work related however, fun fact, I actually have a degree in Product Design Engineering!
Talk to me if you want to know more about supporting and serving youth across our communities of Rowlands Gill, Chopwell, Highfield and High Spen. |
|
I started my role as Youth and Community Outreach Pioneer in September ‘23 to focus on the areas of Rowlands Gill, Highfield, High Spen and Chopwell. I am looking forward to working with Heather and the team, engaging with young people and sharing God's love across the area.
I enjoy football, athletics, fishing, British touring cars and walking my Labrador dog George.
Ask me about anything Youth work or even Liverpool football club! |
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
Ruth Hallatt |
|
. |
Hi! I’m Ruth Hallatt and I live in Lockhaugh with my gorgeous family. This includes Matt, my husband of nearly 10 years, my son and daughter and our cockapoo dog Bertie who is 6 this year! As a family we love being in the outdoors either on walks, finding new places to explore or playing in our garden.
I have been a primary school teacher for the past 7 years and love seeing children experience new things! Before teaching, I completed a music degree so I love being creative in every aspect of life!
I love a good cup of tea (my 7 years of living in Yorkshire really enhanced this passion) and a catch up with friends!
I started to come to SRMC in 2022 and felt so welcomed and part of the family! We love the people at SRMC and their heart and passion for the community and for Jesus! I am really looking forward to starting my post and getting into the local schools to serve our community more and continue the amazing children’s and family work which SRMC is so well known for |
|
. |