Our stories: J - X

Jane Ogden I grew up in a Christian home and God ‘got’ me from the start! Although I’ve had my moments, God keeps on loving me, forgiving me and amazing me. Knowing Jesus and living with Him in my life is what life is all about... and then I’ve got heaven to look forward to!

Jean Barr I have always believed in God. When I had an operation I knew God’s presence in hospital and believe he answered my prayers. Now, when I am worried, I talk to God and know He will help me through the difficult times.

John Davy As a teenager I wanted a life with a purpose. Then when I was 18 I realised that Jesus Christ was really alive and I opened my life to him. Now, nearly 40 years later, I can honestly say that he has given me the purpose I wanted.

John Ingerslev I grew up in a church, got really excited about getting to know God personally, went to uni and kinda lost direction. Through a lot of pain, my life all boiled to did I trust God or not? I chose to, and he brought me onwards and upwards.

John Payne God has never tired of me! I have turned my back on him so many times but far from leaving me to it God has again and again shown his unfailing love for me. I now know that because of Jesus I can experience life in all its fullness.

Jonny Powell I don’t have to deal with my concerns alone or ignore them. Jesus said “come to me all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.” In him I have found a friend literally dying to take them from me.

Jon Priestley Since becoming a Christian, I've faced difficult situations, like my Mum's death. However, God has always been there for me. I have experienced His peace and known his compassion, strengthening me when I need it most. In Him I have a father, a friend and one who understands.

Karen Ingerslev Sometimes all I can hold onto is God is real and God is good. It says in the Bible 'seek the Lord and you will never miss out on anything good'... So that's what I try to do.

Kate Payne Truth exists. When I realised that Jesus was real and what his death on the cross accomplished, I was blown away! God showed his undeserved favour on my life; this truth has set me free.

Kay Smith God has given me freedom to be myself, the woman I was made to be. I'm not bound by expectations of others or social pressures. With him I've attempted and achieved things which I would have thought were beyond me!

Kay Sprenger When I was living and working in Sweden I had an encounter with Jesus that changed my life. God has helped me as a person, as a mother, and to be a friend to those I meet in Gateway and in the community I live in.

Lizzy Bird I know God is real because of the change his has made to my life. I used to be caught in a downwards spiral of insecurity and sin; now, through God's Holy Spirit at work in me, I am becoming the woman He intended me to be and I have freedom from the guilt I felt.

Louise Parkinson Knowing God means that I can be confident and secure both now and for the future because He loves and cares for me more than any person could.

Lydia Gregory At a youth meeting someone announced that God wanted to heal people of eczema. I was prayed for, and completely healed from the eczema, which used to appear all over my face whenever I was self conscious. God taught me that he cares about every aspect of my life.

Magda Wieja I've had hard times, especially as a child and teenager, but I always knew that God wouldn't let me down; he filled my heart with hope for a better future. Now I can truly say that Jesus is the one who answered my prayers and changed my life; I just had to allow Him to do it!

Marie-Claire Spicer Throughout my life God has led me to many places, from the south of England, France, Switzerland, East Africa and now in Leeds, life too has been an unpredictable journey, but one thing I am sure of is that God is with me wherever I go.

Mark Cowley Becoming a Christian 4 years ago, was as much of a surprise to me as to everyone else! Since then it's been amazing finding out that God has a purpose for each of us. He's given my life more meaning than I ever could have imagined.

Mark Dorey Though sometimes I haven't realized it, God has always had his hand on my life in an incredible way. Putting my trust in Him, I am secure in my identity and calling and am excited about my future here in Leeds and at Gateway church.

Matt Cameron When I was 13, I realised there was a God who wanted to know me and who loved me beyond anything I could fathom. I gave my life to him and he sustains me, I trust him in every situation in life and he gives me peace and contentment nothing else can give.

Mike Sprenger I have found security and fulfillment in life. My security stems from knowing I enjoy a personal relationship with Jesus and my fulfillment comes from being involved with the people and plans of Gateway and other local churches.

Colin & Theresa Mundy It is hard to find words to describe how God has taken us as His son and daughter and how, 16 years ago, He restored our shattered marriage. This miracle gives us the desire to reach out to others with God’s comfort and encouragement.

Piers Williamson When I became a Christian I realised that the reality and future that was revealed through the Bible just made sense, and for a logical thinker like me that is so reassuring. My relationship with Jesus and knowledge of the Bible have remained unshakeable over many years.

Pippa Lloyd Having just graduated and entered the working world, Gateway church has been an amazing support to me through the changes and struggles I have faced. I wanted to stay in Leeds because the Church is so exciting and I feel part of the family here!

Sam Evans I'd never understood what the point of church was, despite my passion to live for God. Here at Gateway, God showed me that church is his plan to save the world, and he longs to use us!

Sarah Tee I am not ashamed of my faith, in fact it is the most important thing in my life. Even when I was quite young I knew in my heart that God was real. His guidance and protection has been with me while growing up, and now I know that without it I would be insecure and lacking self confidence.

Sharon Cameron When I was three I had rheumatoid arthritis. God healed me and now I am a dancer! I know that whatever happens in my life God is with me. I know he has a plan for my life and he is guiding me with love. He is trustworthy and faithful.

Sheila Hobson Hi there! I am part of God's family in Gateway Church. Born in 1933, at the ripe old age of 53 I was born again when I finally took the safety chain off the door of my heart and asked the Lord Jesus to come in and take up residence. Hallelujah! It's the best decision I ever made!

Simon Davy Knowing Jesus is simply awesome. As I have gotten to know him better, I have been overwhelmed by his love for me personally, amazed at his mercy for my weaknesses and failings, and excited (and a little daunted!) by his promises for my life! Jesus Rocks :)

Tessa Gilling I grew up in Poland, Israel, Japan, Brazil, India & Spain and was very screwed up with lots of baggage. When I was 14, I met Jesus. My life took a totally different direction - it isn't about religion or rules, it’s like having a best friend. He makes my life worthwhile and helps me to live life well.

Tim Gilling I realised that believing in a creator and desiring to live a good life was not enough. I accepted that Jesus is alive and that I need to be in relationship with him. I still face problems, but he helps me find the right path in life. I know that being part of Gateway is just the right place for me

Toby Isaacson I no longer feel insignificant. Since turning to God I have found amazing sense of purpose. Reading the Bible strengthens the faith I have; it amazes me how a book could contain so many amazing lessons. The truth it holds is extraordinary!

Tony Smith At 18 I was asked, “do you want life and life in abundance?” I answered "YES", and I've never looked back! Now in my early 50s, I'm as thankful to God for this life, and as thirsty for more, as I've ever been; and I know I can't exhaust God!