Meet Rachel

Rachel, her husband Luke, and their baby daughter Ruby call London home, where Rachel serves as an Evangelist with Church Army in the St Helier Centre of Mission. Her path to becoming a Commissioned Evangelist has been anything but ordinary. It’s a story of faith rediscovered, a calling embraced, and a life transformed.

A Faith Rekindled

Though Rachel grew up in the Christian faith, like many young people, she felt distanced from it during her university years. After graduation, her career as a primary school teacher in a Church of England school gradually reignited her connection to Jesus. But it was a simple act of service that became the turning point. While helping with food preparation at her church’s Alpha course, Rachel listened to the videos and felt a profound realisation. Something was missing from her life, and that something was Jesus.

This moment of clarity sparked a new chapter in her faith journey. She dusted off her Bible, started attending church, joined a home group, and even led collective worship sessions at her school. Each step brought her closer to her calling.

After marrying Luke and moving to London, Rachel felt God’s pull toward ministry. This led her to become a Pioneer Evangelist with Church Army, focusing on youth and children’s ministry. Since then, she has witnessed God work in remarkable ways. From running youth groups and school outreach to organising an Alpha course for new mums, where they could explore faith with their babies in tow, Rachel’s ministry has been a testament to God’s grace and her calling to serve others.

The Training Experience

Rachel’s time on the Evangelist-in-Training course has been a life-changing experience.

“I have loved the training… and for so many reasons,” she shares. “Being with people working in similar contexts, sharing experiences and ideas, was invaluable. The tutors were amazing, teaching practical lessons that we could literally take home and implement the next day. Every part of the training was relevant to my ministry.”

The course has provided Rachel with an array of tools and deeper perspectives. It has strengthened her faith, equipped her for various challenges, and deepened her understanding of God’s glory.

“I’ve seen how God has transformed me through this training. My heart has changed, and my calling has been affirmed. I know God has called me to be a pioneer and an evangelist, and the training has helped me articulate and embrace that.”

Throughout her training, Rachel has been uplifted by the emotional and practical support of the teaching staff, invaluable advice, and prayerful connections. Equally significant has been the fellowship she developed with her cohort. These lasting relationships have enriched her training experience and strengthened her faith.

When reflecting on Admitting and Commissioning, Rachel describes it as a celebration of her incredible journey.

“It’s a time to celebrate. To reflect on how far I’ve come and all that God has done in my life over the past three years. God has changed me and transformed me, and that’s something to celebrate.”

After Admitting and Commissioning, Rachel continues her ministry with the St Helier Centre of Mission. Her story reminds us of the profound impact of a leap of faith, the power of transformation, and the joy of walking the path God has called us to follow.