What We Believe
We don’t think of Christianity as a religion, but as a relationship between ourselves and God. It’s an opportunity to live the life God meant us to have – a fulfilled life.
We appreciate that we come from a wide variety of cultures and worldviews. And we all have a unique set of experiences – both good and bad. So, when we think about God, we come with different questions and doubts. That’s fine. No matter what your background is, we desire to see all people develop a closer walk with Jesus.
OUR VISION
Our aim as a church is to be a community that worships together and where each person enjoys their relationship with God. As each member belongs to every other member our hope is that everyone will be involved in the life of the church. Our desire is for a church where people can grow together in a discipling relationship with one other and where we serve each other humbly with love. We also want everyone to be able, and willing, to share the good news.
OUR STAFF
TIM GUNN
Church Leader
Tim and his wife Philippa joined Woodlands in 1988. Before that, Tim worked in Human Resources for HSBC in London. He came to Derby to take up a new post for the Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship. He was the first Midlands’ Team Leader, supporting staff and students across the region. Tim has been a full-time pastor at Woodlands since 1991.
He and Philippa have 3 grown-up children and an increasing number of grandchildren! Tim’s passions are telling people about Jesus as well as all things related to aviation
WARRICK MARTIN
Church Leader
Warrick’s been at Woodlands since 2017. He’s married to Esther with two children. After working in advertising he became a church apprentice at Dundonald Church, Wimbledon. A theological degree followed at Oak Hill College before posts at churches in North London and Norfolk. Loves sport; a good film or TV series and Spurs F.C. (so used to disappointment). Loves Jesus; loves teaching people about Jesus; loves reading the Bible one-to-one.
OLI WARD
Church Leader
After finishing his training in Scotland, Oli was called to Devon to be the Pastor of a small independent Baptist Church. In September 2019 he then moved to Woodlands to become a full-time church leader. He enjoys being outdoors, watching decent films, and eating good food. He is married to Susan and they have 4 children.
WILL HARVEY
Youth & Children’s Pastor
After brief stints as a Trainee Accountant and a Software Engineer, Will and his family moved to North London, where Will studied Theology at Oak Hill College. He’s been working as Children’s and Youth Pastor at Woodlands since September 2020 and is enjoying settling into Derby, and exploring the beautiful local area! He’s married to Jess, with 3 young girls. When there’s a ‘spare’ moment, he enjoys reading fantasy novels, drinking coffee, and playing games.
BETH ARNOLD
Children’s and Youth Worker
COLETTE PATTERSON
Church Administrator
Colette started work as part-time administrator in 2016. She has been connected to Woodlands since 2000 when she first came to work at the church for a gap year after university. She is married to David and they have two children. Colette loves connecting with people one to one, organising and decluttering, listening to podcasts, running and crocheting.