ABOUT US
Welcome to Open Gate Church!
At Open Gate Church, Northampton, we believe there’s a way that leads to life: His name is Jesus.
We are a Christ-centred community, empowered by the Holy Spirit to participate in God’s mission and make Christ known to the world, to the glory of God the Father.
Our vision is to see lives transformed, communities renewed, nations inspired, and the world reached with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
We cultivate a culture of discipleship that equips believers to live with integrity, serve their communities, transform their nations, and carry Christ to the world.
Mission
Why we exist.
To transform lives by showing the way to Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit and for the glory of God the Father.
Vision
What we want to do.
To see communities renewed, nations inspired, and the world reached with the gospel, led by the Spirit, rooted in Christ, and for the glory of God the Father.
Strategy
How we get there.
We cultivate a discipleship culture that equips believers to serve their community, lead in their nation, and carry Christ to the world.
Core Values
These are the biblical convictions that shape who we are, how we live, and why we do what we do.
Gospel-Centered Living
We proclaim and live the good news of Jesus.
→ We live with purpose, sharing the hope of Christ wherever we go.
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.”
— Romans 1:16
Devoted Discipleship
We grow through Scripture and obedience.
→ We pursue spiritual maturity, letting God’s Word shape our lives.
“He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.”
— Colossians 1:28
Authentic Fellowship
We belong to one another in Christ.
→ We build deep relationships across backgrounds and generations.
“How good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell together in unity”
— Psalm 133:1
Passionate Worship
We glorify God in Spirit and truth.
→ We gather to encounter God through prayer, praise, word and sacrament.
“God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” — John 4:24
Radical Generosity
We give freely: of our time, resources, and lives, because God gave first.
→ We live open-handedly, meeting needs wherever God leads us.
“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” — Acts 2:44–45
Missional Action
We serve our world with justice and mercy.
→ We extend God’s love beyond our walls, caring for the vulnerable.
“Religion that God our Father accepts... is to look after orphans and widows...” — James 1:27
Godly Leadership
We raise up Spirit-led servant leaders.
→ We empower leaders to shepherd with wisdom, humility, and grace.
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many" - Mark 10:45
Transformed Relationships
We live the gospel in our homes and communities.
→ We reflect Christ in our families, workplaces, and daily interactions.
“That they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour” — Titus 2:10
Spirit-Led Awe & Expectancy
We expect God to move in power and grace.
→ We make space for miracles, transformation, and the Spirit’s leading.
“Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs...”
— Acts 2:43
The Discipleship Cycle
From Curious to Commissioned
At Open Gate Church, we believe discipleship is more than a moment: it’s a journey. That’s why we’ve created a clear, intentional pathway to help you grow in your faith step-by-step.
Our Discipleship Cycle is designed to take you from exploring Christianity to becoming a fully equipped follower of Jesus, ready to live on mission in the world.
Each stage is rooted in community, shaped by the Word of God, and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
DISCOVERY GROUP
Explore the foundations of faith. Ask the big questions.
This group is for anyone who’s spiritually curious or just starting to explore Christianity. We create a safe space for honest questions about God, Scripture, suffering, science, and purpose.
You don’t need to have it all figured out, just come with an open heart and a curious mind.
ENCOUNTER
GROUP
Get to know us... and encounter Jesus.
This stage is all about connection. It’s where you begin to experience who we are as a church family, and more importantly, who Jesus truly is.
In this group, we create space to encounter the living Christ. It’s a time to move from knowing about God to actually knowing Him. You’ll learn about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and discover how His love and power can transform your own life from the inside out.
GROUNDED
GROUP
Grow deep roots in God’s Word and community.
This group helps you build a strong foundation in Scripture, spiritual habits, and authentic Christian relationships. It’s about maturing in your faith and becoming deeply rooted in truth and love.
“Rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith…” — Colossians 2:6–7
EQUIP
GROUP
Find your place. Step into your purpose.
God has called every believer to play a unique role in His Kingdom. In this group, we’ll help you discover your spiritual gifts, understand where you fit in the body of Christ, and grow in confidence as you step into that calling.
We’ll explore congregational ministry, how the church functions, and how you can serve within it, as well as God’s mission locally, nationally, and globally. Whether you're called to lead, serve, teach, create, go, or give. We want to help you walk it out.
“To equip the saints for the work of ministry…” — Ephesians 4:12
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others…” — 1 Peter 4:10
This is where purpose becomes practical, so you can live it out with boldness and joy.
More tailored groups will follow for specific training in many areas.
SENT
Live on mission... locally, nationally, and globally.
Now that you’re equipped, it’s time to be released! Whether it’s in your workplace, community, or the nations, this is about living boldly for Christ wherever He sends you. You’ll be supported, commissioned, and sent—empowered to carry the gospel into every sphere of life.
“As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” — John 20:21
“Go and make disciples of all nations…” — Matthew 28:19
A Pathway with Purpose
Our goal isn’t just to grow church members, it’s to raise disciples who live and lead like Jesus.
Through each step of the Discipleship Cycle, we’re bringing people into the Kingdom properly, laying a strong foundation, and empowering them to join God’s mission of redeeming the world.
Wherever you are on your journey, there’s a place for you to take your next step.
Our Launch Team
The people helping us begin and build the foundations of this new church.
“Our heart is to raise disciples who carry Christ boldly into every sphere of life: community, culture, and the nations.”
The couples helping coordinate and oversee our launch:
Each of these couples is represented on our Board of Trustees and helps oversee key areas of our launch, such as safeguarding, health and safety, finances, and pastoral oversight.
As the church becomes more established, we will appoint elders and deacons in accordance with the biblical pattern (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1)
For now, these couples are here to help with questions about the church and how to get involved as we grow.
