How we Got Started: UK
The Birth of the Movement in the UK
In the aftermath of two world wars and the dissolution of the British Empire, the UK experienced a sharp decline in faith, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. In 1982, the Brethren movement, now known as the Charis Alliance, sought to reverse this trend by exploring opportunities in England. Two couples were sent to Solihull, a suburb of Birmingham, with the mission of identifying and cultivating leaders for the gospel.
Birmingham was the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, and it became the hub for this pioneering effort. Bill Kiddoo’s cultural insight led to the creation of the Speaking Allowed Club, which provided participants with public speaking skills to articulate their beliefs. David and Becky Schwan launched guitar clubs, drawing on Birmingham’s rich music history, which includes legendary bands like Black Sabbath and Duran Duran. Through these clubs, many individuals encountered the transformative message of Jesus. Several leaders from the churches in Shirley and Frankley came to know Jesus through the guitar club.
The body of believers met in various places around Solihull town center, including homes and a bridge club. In 1996, the Grace Church family moved to Light Hall School in Shirley.
The Growth of the Movement in the UK
Since then, the ministry has expanded to the Yardley and Frankley areas of Birmingham. In 2001, a team from the Shirley Church planted a new congregation in Frankley, supported by leaders such as Tom and MaryAnn Barlow, who joined in 2002. The Frankley church reached the community through creative means, including guitar clubs, Bible plays in schools, after-school programs, and a food bank ministry.
Collaboration with other evangelical groups became a hallmark of the movement. Initiatives like Walk of Witness and Praise in the Park united churches in public expressions of faith. In London, the population is more transient and international, which inspired strategies that emphasized discipleship and portable church experiences. Leaders like John and Kate Ward helped disciple young believers who are now serving God worldwide.
A Call to Prayer and Support
Today, the Charis Alliance in the UK comprises one church and two "points of light." The Shirley Grace Church continues its ministry with ongoing efforts in Dublin, Ireland, led by Roy and Holly Angle. These ministries seek to sow seeds, nurturing growth, and trusting God for the harvest.
Pray for new leadership in the Shirley Grace Church to guide the next generation of believers.
Pray for teammates to join Roy and Holly Angle in Dublin as they build relationships and share the gospel.
Pray that the believers who encountered Christ through this movement would shine as lights for Jesus wherever they go.
The story of the Charis Alliance in the UK is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the power of His gospel. As we look to the future, we trust that God will continue to cause His good work to bear fruit.
