Riding The Wave : Ashtead Parish at the Church Growth Conference
Staff, leaders and congregation from across the Parish were fortunate to attend this year’s Church Growth Conference on 10 September. Held at Welcome Church in Woking, the event saw around 600 people from over 100 parishes to hear talks from keynote speakers Pete Grieg - founder of the worldwide prayer movement 24-7 Prayer - and Dr Rachel Jordan-Wolf, Executive Director at Hope Together. Worship throughout the day was led by Kate Flanders and the Youth Catalyst Team.
A central theme of the conference was “The Quiet Revival” – The remarkable rise in Gen Z Church attendance over the past four years. Pete Grieg attributed this shift to the global ‘polycrisis’ and a growing hunger for hope among young adults. He urged churches to be alert to the wave of spiritual curiosity and to guide seekers with clarity and compassion. Dr Rachel Jordan-Wolf highlighted the importance of digital presence, noting that this generation is most likely to begin their faith journey online - making a welcoming website key.
All those from Ashtead certainly left with a renewed purpose and a readiness to turn inspiration into action. You can read a full account of the Church Growth Conference, Turning Up The Volume on the Quiet Revival – on the Guildford Diocese Website HERE.
+ Exciting News for Ashtead Parish
We’re delighted to announce that Dr Rachel Jordan-Wolf, who gave a powerful session on Talking Jesus at St George’s earlier this year, has agreed to support as Evangelical Adviser for our church. Her insight and leadership will be a tremendous asset as we continue to grow in mission and outreach.
We’re also thrilled to welcome Kate Flanders back to St George’s, where she will lead worship at The Six on Sunday 9 November. Her musical gifts and heart for worship promise an uplifting evening.