Grand Opening Day
Saturday 26th November 2011
After many years of hard work, great faith and sacrificial giving - CLM celebrated the achievement of the new Welcome Centre, with a Grand Opening Day. The day was open to all churches throughout Coventry, those from the local community, workers from Provision UK and beyond who were involved in the project and to the congregation of CLM.
The day began with tours of the building. All were able to be shown round the 4 storey conference facility. Entertainment was provided in the form of a string and brass band, Barbershizzle - a local Barbershop group and there was also the surprise of a marching band playing in the car park. There was much excitement and buzz around the place. There was also an opportunity to partake in refreshments provided and to converse with familiar and distant friends attending the event,
The ribbon was then cut by the Lord Major of Coventry to mark the official opening of the building and the new building plaque was unveiled. All those attending were then shown into the auditorium for the celebration service. This began with a video shown at the beginning of the project, provided by Provision UK and accompanied by Chris Tomlin's song 'God of this city' This video showed what the project involved. Pastor Bonner then took to the stage, showing the excitement of someone who recognised the faithfulness of God. All in attendance joined in this excitement.
Following this, Birmingham City Gospel Choir took to the stage. The sound that came from this magnificent choir was fitting for such a great occasion. Declaring the greatness of God in glorious harmony. A time of worship followed this, with God getting the glory for the completion of the building.
Taking to the stage then were the employees of Provision UK. The company that worked in partnership with CLM to build the fantastic building. Tony Williams introduced all those involved, and their wives. It was opportunity for all to recognise the hard work and commitment of these great people in seeing this project completed.
Geoff Pickup from New Life Church, Derby was the visiting speaker afforded the privilege of sharing God's word for the occasion. Geoff spoke brilliantly, challenging and encouraging those of CLM and beyond to recognise the calling of God. To have vision and to live for a cause.
Finally, soon to be Senior Pastor of CLM - John Partington, shared with the congregation. He thanked and recognised the hard work of both the leadership of CLM and Provision UK. Running throughout the meeting was the theme of giving glory to Jesus for his hand upon the project and recognising that the Welcome Centre has a purpose in the city of Coventry and the wider community.
Following the meeting, food was provided courtesy of members from Vintage Church, Portishead.