Finding a new minister of a church has been likened to speed dating. Ruddington Baptist Church has been without a minister for two years, during which it has reflected, assessed, prayed, and dated to find a leader to take the church forward on a new spiritual adventure. The result has been a surprise. Earlier this year, the church found its match in Sam Hackett.
In September, Sam was inducted as the new minister, the youngest in Nottingham. He says, ‘I am really passionate about building a community in which all people are loved and respected.’
Sam has recently graduated from Cardiff University, where he studied Religious Studies and Theology. He is a self-confessed sport fanatic, and played hockey for South Wales. He is a people person, and sees this as a key to building relationship between the church and community groups, businesses, as well as the other two churches in the village. ‘I have really enjoyed my first month as the minister of Ruddington Baptist Church and look forward to spending more time getting to know everyone involved with making this village such a great place.’
Ruddington Baptist Church abandoned its traditional church building in 2007 and currently meets in the Young People’s Centre on the Green in Ruddington, in line with its vision to be part of the community and to be a blessing in it by supporting people of all ages wherever they find life difficult. Some of the ways Ruddington Baptist Church does this is through:
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Nappacinos – a weekly group for new Mums and their babies 0-12 months
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Oasis – a support group for parents who have children with special needs (meeting once a month)
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Horlicks – a monthly lunchtime group for elderly residents looking for fun and friendship
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The Noise in Ruddington – a community action weekend, which this year attracted over 100 volunteers from among the local churches and businesses to help with gardening, painting and decorating for residents struggling to maintain their property.
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The Alpha course – joining with St Peter’s Church to run a 10 week course for anyone who wants to learn more about God.
Sam and the Church are excited by this new partnership. Sam says: ‘Now you have seen my picture alongside this article, if you see me out and about please come and introduce yourself to me and have a chat. I would love to get to know you better.’