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Apprenticeship: 2 months in

David Piper, a new apprentice at Cambray Baptist Church, Cheltenham, shares his experiences only 2 months in.

 

1.      What made you want to become an apprentice in the first place?

I guess it began back in September 2007 during a trip to Egypt. It was during my time in Egypt that I felt God calling on my life. I had been praying for so long asking God His plans for me, but it seemed like there was no response. One of my weaknesses is that I try doing things in my own strength. I like to try to fix things and sort them out for people.  Egypt broke me.  I realised that I could not do this in my own strength and I had to turn and rely on God. To lead a team in a foreign land whilst trying to act like I knew what I was doing just did not work. God made me quickly realise that I needed to rely on him.

 I came home wanting to be able to explore my Christian ministry and be able to follow God's calling on my life. Once I came back the opportunity to do an apprenticeship was presented to me in a church in Leicester. I was excited about the idea, but decided that the position was not right for me. One year later and after a conversation with our Pastor I realised Cambray was looking to possibly take on an apprentice. I decided to apply for the position and I was accepted.  I have a real passion and heart for Cambray as a church, and felt God has led me to this apprenticeship.

2.      What have you been up to at Cambray since the beginning of September?

I have enjoyed being an apprentice working alongside the pastors and others in the church and have been encouraged by the commitment shown by our pastoral team are. Their passion for Jesus and the church is such a priority in their ministry and I feel I am learning so much from them just by the example that they are living. It has been an encouragement getting involved with different activities and groups each week; there is so much enthusiasm for what is going on.  

I have been surprised about how much there is to do from day to day in church and how each day is different.  My big concern is that with so much going on, it would be easy to overwork other people.  The challenge is to support those who are busy and make sure they have time to spend with their families.

3.      What do you find the most difficult and the most enjoyable parts of your Apprenticeship?

I have the tendency, if I am passionate about something, to take too much on and not delegate. This can often lead to frustration when plans or ideas do not work out as planned. I need God to give me wisdom and patience in these areas and I need to remember to rely on God and not my own ability, especially when I am preparing for some Bible teaching.

I really enjoy working with people. I have huge passion for the youth and student work and I am also enjoying help lead Christianity explored. Alongside these ministries, the training at the South Central Ministry Training Course has been a great chance to learn more of God's word.  I really want to thank God for the opportunities he has presented to me.  

 

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