Building Lasting Relationships Through Perseverance

At St Barnabas’ Church in Knowle West, Bristol, the journey of faith and community has been one of resilience and renewal. Through the challenges of the pandemic and a period of transition, the church has remained steadfast in its commitment to being present for its local community.

Rev Clive Hamilton, who became vicar in January, reflects on the difficulties the congregation has faced. Many members, having volunteered, shielded, or suffered illness during the pandemic, experienced significant fatigue. With the church in an interregnum (period of pause) following the previous vicar’s departure due to ill health, it was a time of uncertainty.

Yet, in the past year, St Barnabas has embraced new ways to serve. The church now hosts a food bank, a monthly Messy Church, and a Warm Space café. During Lent, they ran the Growing Good course, which drew in both congregation members and people from the wider community who had first connected through these activities.

“Recognising the perseverance behind these initiatives has been important,” says Rev Clive. “We can see how, as people have made a connection with us, they have become present with us just as much as we have been present with them. New, lasting relationships have been built.”

As the church moves forward, it continues to hold open conversations about the challenges of ministry in a changing world. “By acknowledging the tiredness and struggles, we find ways to work through them together and remain present with those around us,” Rev Clive shares.

This Easter, St Barnabas’ story reminds us of the power of perseverance, connection, and faith in action.