Wendy Forrester

On Sabbath, February 6th, a symbolic ‘foundation’ of stones was laid for the ‘Upper Room’ (formerly Hyson Green) branch Sabbath School, Nottingham, as it was officially organised as a church.

‘Unity in Fellowship’ was the theme of this special day. In Sabbath School, the Mission Spotlight consisted of members’ own testimonies, sharing inspiring stories of how they have grown spiritually and as a family through their weekly fellowship. In a special presentation, the children also described the Upper Room as a place where they could develop their talents for God.

The sermon was delivered by NEC President, Pastor Ian Sweeney, who turned the attention of the well-known ‘Jonah story’ away from Jonah... and the fish..., to the benevolent, merciful God who is ever in control and seeking every opportunity to give life to his disobedient children (Jonah chapter 4). It was a message that seamlessly echoed throughout the rest of the day - that the God-given purpose of this newborn congregation is to be a shining light in the surrounding community, bringing the life of God to the people.

The formal service began at 3:30pm and was officiated by Pastor Paul Howarth (NEC Executive Secretary), Pastor Ian Sweeney and Rejoice Kampengele (NEC Treasurer). During this time, charters were signed by the founding members, musical gifts of praise were given and Pastor Haworth reminded the newly formed church of its foremost responsibilities: to go and make disciples for the kingdom of God, and to live the lives of disciples by loving one another.

Amongst others, the founding pastor, Dr. Patrick Herbert was recognised for his vital contribution to the establishment of the new church, and was presented with a certificate of recognition by elders Robert Mokoya and Joseph Muchina.

The day ended with a summary of all that had been accomplished by the Upper Room, as well as what they planned to accomplish in the future. On behalf of the new leadership, Elder Paul Clarke summed up the ultimate vision for the church - to learn through Bible study, teach through evangelism and to baptise and make disciples through further teaching and study.

The members of the Upper Room Seventh-day Adventist Church thank God for the privilege and honour of becoming a new church, even though they are yet to obtain their own building. They solicit your prayers that God will make this possible in the near future and that the spirit of unity and fellowship, as well as the drive for soul-winning that now exists, remains and shines ever brighter until that ‘glorious day’.

Originally named the Hyson Green branch Sabbath School, the church plant began holding meetings on 1st September 2005. After several changes in location and an outreach campaign at the All Souls Church & Community Centre in Radford, the gathering settled in its spacious, first storey chapel on 5th April 2008. The name change to ‘Upper Room’ was officially voted in by the church board members on the 22nd April 2008.

Saturday worship services:      Sabbath School: 10am; Divine Worship: 11:15am