Forest New Life Church

Forest New Life Church is a UK-based nonprofit Pentecostal church located in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, recognized as a registered charity under number 1124854. The church is dedicated to serving both young people and adults in its local community while also engaging in mission work through partnerships and teams in developing countries.

History and Development

Forest New Life Church originated from a group of friends seeking to establish a church modeled on New Testament principles, primarily serving the northern area of the Forest of Dean. This small fellowship, initially focused on prayer, worship, teaching, fellowship, and breaking of bread, soon required formal leadership. In December 2008, Ken and Sue Matthews, returning from missionary work in northern Uganda, joined the leadership team, bringing a vision to expand the church's presence locally.

In 2012, Ken and Sue Matthews felt called back to ministry in Africa, leading to a commissioning of a new leadership team in January 2013. Subsequently, in July 2013, Rev. Mark Baker was appointed to assist in guiding the church's next phase.

On Easter Sunday 2015, the church was renamed Forest New Life Church to embody its mission of communicating hope through life under the lordship of Jesus Christ. By December 2017, the congregation relocated to Parkend Baptist Church, where it holds Sunday morning services and organizes prayer meetings, small groups, Bible studies, and youth activities throughout the week.

In September 2019, Rev. Mark Baker stepped down to take on the role of International Director for Focus on Israel. Leadership then transitioned to Jonathan Kear, a Forest of Dean native known for his work in family and youth ministry within the region.

Activities and Mission

Forest New Life Church is active in:

• Serving the local community with programs for young people and adults.
• Organizing regular worship services and fellowship events.
• Hosting small groups, prayer meetings, Bible studies, and children’s and youth meetings.
• Supporting international mission efforts through sending teams and collaborating with partners in developing countries.

The church emphasizes a community-oriented, dynamic approach focused on spiritual growth and outreach both locally and abroad.

Forest New Life Church represents a vibrant evangelical community rooted in the Forest of Dean, committed to fostering faith, fellowship, and service according to New Testament teachings[1][3][4][5].

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4040087 [2] https://www.forestnewlife.org.uk [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4040087/charity-overview [4] https://oscar.org.uk/churches/forest-new-life-church-lydbrook [5] https://www.forestnewlife.org.uk/about-us