Published on: 31/07/2025
There are encouraging signs for future growth in discipleship in Goole and Rotherham following a recent evaluation.
The Sheffield Resourcing Churches Project has evaluated worshipping community figures and the impact of grant funding in its latest report. Led by Dr Edd Graham-Hyde and the Revd Dr John Tomlinson (as part of the Church Army’s Research Unit), Phase 1 of the report has taken a look at achievements across the two worshipping communities, as well as sustainability challenges and key lessons for the future. The project received £2.5m from SDF (Strategic Development Fund), with a further £2m from the Diocese and funding bodies, including grants for buildings and activities.
Comparing growth at St John’s Goole and Rotherham Minster with churches across the Diocese of Sheffield, and the Church of England as a whole, Goole saw a 49% increase between 2019-2022 in its worshipping community, with Rotherham Minster seeing a 77% increase across the same period. Both churches also exceeded targets for external grant funding, securing £648,481 (Goole) and £569,204 (Rotherham) respectively. This also led to an increase in Common Fund contributions and the start of self-funding for some staffing costs.
Some of the good news story reflections included:
Calling people to personal faith
In both churches, there are plenty of cases of individuals travelling on the pathway to discipleship, being drawn into a greater involvement and dedication to God in Jesus Christ. In a classic example, one person can trace their steps from the fringe, almost quite literally walking deeper into the church building, stage by stage, getting involved in more faith-based activities. Being confirmed was a moving experience that helped to cement their new faith. Another spoke about how they attended the church years ago but found it a cold and unfriendly place. Recently they were drawn back, because of all the activities that take place there, and were surprised to find a warm welcome. This made them want to stay and find out more, leading eventually to continue ‘a spiritual journey to God’. That same warmth will attract others. Another spoke of being drawn to faith by the ‘vicar’ who just listened and ‘has time for me’.
Supporting vocations
One person spoke about how their pathway to discipleship has brought them to a vocation for ministry, and thus enabled them to work with the team. ‘It has been so affirming,’ they said, adding how in a short time they have been given the confidence to be a disciple because people in the church believed in them. Now they would see themselves as an evangelist, bearing a witness to their family and friends.
Rejuvenating the Church
Several people spoke about how their church feels renewed. Compared to years ago, one said, ‘We used to wonder what would happen because there were no young people in the church.’ Another added, ‘It is such a joy that they are there to take over one day.’ Some referred to how it used to be such a struggle but now more people are coming forward to take on roles, and having a team ‘has made such a difference’.
Meeting community needs
There are many examples of how the churches have sought to provide practical help to those in their communities, particularly noting some of the key issues in such economically deprived areas. In Rotherham, the Social Supermarket provides much more than just food; they also give advice and support for those in need.
Responding to crises in the community
One of the most important features of the churches is how they have responded quickly and appropriately to an urgent community event. In Goole in October 2024, following a weekend of tragic deaths in the town, the church was opened for prayer. People were drawn from across the community, spending time in the church to sit quietly, say a prayer, or light a candle, while members of the team were available for a chat or pastoral care. Several young people came, as well as members of the affected families. In Rotherham in August 2024, following local unrest stirred up by racism and hatred which reached the national news, there was a peace vigil at the Minster attended by 120, and this enabled people to resist such destructive views and behaviour and give voice to hope.
Being accessible and evangelistic
The churches have provided ways for people to begin the pathway to a deeper faith. The Catch-Up Café in Rotherham is described as just an opportunity for ‘a cuppa and a conversation’, and the Tuesday Singers is a relaxed, informal group for those who like singing. Similarly, the Saturday Morning Café in Goole has attracted several people who may not have had much contact with the Church before.
Drawing people in through exhibitions and celebrations
Another way to bring people into church is to create an event. In Rotherham the Museum of the Moon had a range of activities, workshops, concerts and services attracting over 10,000 people. Similarly, the 175 years celebration in Goole drew over 400 people, and was followed by a Heritage Day two weeks later.
Having the right kinds of leaders and teams
Several people spoke about the leadership of the churches, about a style that is accessible and practical, with an open and caring attitude that permeates down through the church.
Building on key festivals
Both churches have used Easter and Christmas as opportunities to put on a range of events to attract people to Church and to hear the fundamental message of these two pivotal points of Jesus’ life. Similarly, the churches have created festival occasions around the national celebrations for the Queen’s Jubilee and the King’s coronation.
Prioritising work with the under 18s
Young people matter to these churches, as shown by the number of groups and activities provided. In Goole there is Kids Church and Wild Tots, alongside a real concern to bring young people to faith through Youth Alpha. In Rotherham there is Little Minstrels, and a whole ministry of outreach based on the choristers and work in the local schools. One person said, ‘It is great to see the young people in church, because it belongs to them as well.’
Jonny Patton, Worship and Operations Director at St John’s Goole, said:
‘The SDF project at St John’s Goole has really turned fortunes around. The future has previously looked uncertain but through the Diocesan project, the situation is now much brighter. Over half our church family are new to faith, so it has been an exciting time for those who attend and who had seen their own churches close. It’s also important to mention the SDF Diocesan support team that has helped secure a higher yield of grants, which is enabling much more ministry as a result. We continue to be grateful for the opportunity to revitalise this church for generations to come.’
Revd Phil Batchford, Vicar of Rotherham Minster, said:
‘We are so grateful for all the support we have received over the last few years. The church is increasingly at the heart of our town life and our community engagement and worshipping community have both seen significant growth and development. It is a real joy to see people experiencing us as a safe space and encountering Jesus through engagement with us.’
