Meet the leaders - John Wilthew

Where do you live?
Ulgham (pronounced Uffam), a small village 5 miles north of Morpeth.

Where were you born and brought up?
Pure Geordie: born and raised in Heaton, Newcastle upon Tyne.

Your age range?
I got my bus pass in 2008.

Do you have any family?
Married to Liz since 1972. Two sons and three grandchildren.

So how did you meet your wife?
As a student training for the Christian ministry -  on a church mission in Newbury, Berkshire. 

Do you have any hobbies?
Big sports fan, voracious reader and National Trust member.  In the summer Liz and I go country walking with our “bins” for bird watching.

What is your favourite TV programme? 
The West Wing – the box set with all seven series. TV heaven!

When did you become a Christian?
Way back in 1966 – famous for another momentous event

What Churches have you been part of up till now?
Been in Christian ministry since 1973 - leading  two Baptist Churches (in Sheffield and West Sussex) and then a team member leading The Church of Christ the King (Brighton) and New Community Church (South East London). 

How did you come to be part of County Church?
My wife and I moved north in 2003 to start the church, with Dennis & Kay.

Do you work for the Church?
Yes. I am paid a full salary to serve the church.

What would you say are your strongest gifts and abilities in the context of the church?
My great passion is Bible teaching. As well as Sunday teaching at home base I do some travelling in the UK  (and occasionally overseas) to teach and train other church leaders

Favourite book of the Bible?
The Gospel of John.

Is there anything about the Christian Church that upsets or annoys you?
We need to look in the mirror first!

And what do you get really excited about?
Seeing people make their journey to faith and becoming radical disciples of Jesus.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about Christianity or joining County Church?
Would love to meet you  -  the sooner the better!

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