Steve’s Story
Steve first came to the church in 2004, soon after the refurbished church building reopened. Then, as now, we were open 7 days a week to provide a place of welcome, discovery and refuge.
Steve had a learning disability, which sometimes made communication difficult at first, and initially could be quite demanding, especially when he’d been drinking.
He began to come several times a week and gradually we got to know him. We learned about his violent and traumatic childhood, his time living on the streets, and the many painful experiences he’d been though. But we also began to see his friendliness, his generosity, his care for others, his loyalty and his desire to know God.
He began to attend our Sunday meetings on a regular basis, and increasingly became part of the church family. We continued to provide him with support with finances, housing, and healthcare.
It was a shock to us all when Steve was diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma in 2021, and even more so when he was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in 2022. Steve faced his diagnosis and illness with courage and dignity and passed away peacefully in April 2023, much missed by the church family.
Before he died, Steve wanted to tell something of his own story, and this is what he said:
“When I first arrived at the church, 20 years ago, I was sad, addicted, lonely and misunderstood. From early childhood I was misunderstood and even beaten. People didn’t understand my learning difficulties.
Trouble seemed to find me even when I wasn’t looking for it. My goal as a young man was to be tough, and part of a gang. I love my motorbike, and my rock ‘n’ roll but I had no time for God. But now I love God ( and motorbikes and rock ‘n’ roll!).
“I thank God that while I’m not perfect
I am forgiven and loved.”
When I joined Westbourne Grove Church I began to change. I still struggled with drinking but slowly God’s love for me began to change me from the inside out. A special moment was when I decided to be baptised and tell everyone I wanted God in my life. My friendship with Jesus has become more and more important as the years have passed.
I have learned to forgive and I’m learning how important it is to fix broken friendships. Now as I get ready for heaven, I thank God that while I’m not perfect I am forgiven and loved. This has given me the peace I have wanted my whole life.”
We miss him very much but are glad to have known and loved such an amazing person.
