On Saturday 22 March 2025, people from across Southend gathered together for the Love Southend Vision and Consultation morning—an uplifting and encouraging time of connection, conversation and collective visioning. It was a morning marked by honest reflection, inspiring worship and a deep sense of unity among the body of Christ in our city.
The event brought together individuals from churches, ministries and Christian organisations across Southend, all with a shared passion: to see God’s love transform every aspect of life in our community. Through worship and prayer, influence and action, Love Southend continues its mission to strengthen the Church and extend God’s kingdom in practical and powerful ways.
One of the highlights of the morning was the opportunity to revisit and reflect on the Love Southend vision, mission and value statements. Participants engaged in meaningful table discussions, grappling with big questions: How can we most effectively address city-wide issues? How can we celebrate and support Christian ministries already at work? How can we grow stronger together as one city-wide Church?
These questions sparked fruitful dialogue, honest insights and a renewed sense of purpose. Attendees appreciated the chance to have their voices heard in shaping the future direction of Love Southend. As one person commented, “The small groups enabled everyone to join in the discussions.”
The morning also offered a valuable chance for networking. A variety of Christian organisations hosted stands, providing attendees with the opportunity to discover what’s already happening across Southend to support and care for our community. New connections were made, and existing ones strengthened.
The event was underpinned by heartfelt sung worship, helping centre the morning in God’s presence. As another attendee shared, “It was such a blessing to be there this morning. Thank you for all of your hard work and organisation!”
Ruth Verrinder, a member of the Love Southend Servant Team, reflected,
“We are committed to seeking God and reflecting on all that was raised for the future of the Love Southend network’s journey. We want to see his church strengthened and his kingdom extended in our city.”
Thank you to everyone who came, contributed, worshipped, prayed, listened and spoke. The sense of unity and hope in the room was palpable. As another participant summed it up:
“It was such an excellently organised event. Well done and thank you for pouring so much into Love Southend.”
We move forward encouraged, prayerful and expectant—ready to keep building together for God’s glory in Southend.
