Sunday 23 November 2025 will long be remembered as a day of thanksgiving, celebration and renewed commitment at Leigh Road Baptist Church (LRBC), as our church family gathered with guests from near and far for the induction of Rev. Ian Smith as our new Senior Minister. The sanctuary was alive with warmth and anticipation as we worshipped together, prayed together, and affirmed together the calling God has placed on Ian’s life and ministry among us.
Honoured Guests and Shared Stories of God’s Faithfulness
We were delighted to welcome a number of guests who took part in this special gathering, each bringing encouragement, history, and testimony to God’s work through Ian over many years:
- Claire Blatchford, from the Eastern Baptist Association, who kindly led the induction service with grace, insight and prayer.
- Jane Wyndham, from Stock Free Church, Ian’s very first church, who brought greetings and shared heartfelt testimony about the impact Ian and Andrea had on her own journey of faith.
- Ian Moore, from Billericay Baptist Church, Ian’s second church, who spoke warmly of being ministered to by Ian — and of ministering to him — as they served the people of Billericay side by side.
- Jeff Jacobson, from West Leigh Baptist Church—our sister/daughter church—who expressed his anticipation of an even closer, Spirit-led partnership between our churches as we seek to serve Leigh-on-Sea together in the years ahead.
Their contributions reminded us that ministry is a shared story, woven across communities, seasons and friendships by the goodness of God.
Gratitude for Those Who Have Gone Before
As we celebrate Ian’s induction, we also pause to express deep gratitude for all the ministers who have faithfully served LRBC throughout its history. We thank Jesus for their leadership, their servant-heartedness and their willingness to journey with this church as it has sought to shine the light of Christ here in Leigh-on-Sea — a light that continues to radiate hope, compassion and welcome into our neighbourhood, town and city.
A Service Filled With Hope and Purpose
The theme of the service, “Stop, Look, Listen,” encouraged us to pause, pay attention to God’s movement among us, and listen for the Spirit’s leading as we enter a new chapter together. The congregation affirmed promises of support and partnership, recognising that ministry here is shared — a family following Jesus together.
Prayers were offered, Scripture was proclaimed, worship was lifted, and Ian was charged and blessed for the ministry ahead. The sense of unity and expectation was tangible in the room.
The atmosphere of the day
From opening hymn to closing blessing, there was a tangible sense of gratitude, anticipation and unity. The gathered fellowship affirmed Ian’s calling, pledged their support, and committed to working alongside him in the life and mission of the church. Family, friends, long-time members, newcomers—everyone was part of this new beginning.
There were prayers of thanksgiving, promises made by church members, and a sending-out moment as we entrusted Ian with this new role. It was a reminder that ministry here is not isolated: it is shared, communal, rooted in relationships.
A Joyful Feast of Fellowship
Following the service, our church family and guests enjoyed a wonderful bring-and-share lunch — tables filled with home-made dishes, joyful conversation and the warmth of genuine community.
Together we sat, ate, laughed and shared stories with guests and friends old and new.
It was a joyful occasion, and we are grateful to everyone who brought food, helped set up, tidy away, and gave of their gifts to make it such a memorable celebration.
All of this — every plate of food, every word of encouragement, every moment of fellowship — was done in the name of Jesus, that He might be known, loved, and made famous in our community.
Looking Ahead With Faith
With Ian now serving as Senior Minister, LRBC steps into a season of renewed hope and shared purpose. We look forward to:
- Growing deeper as disciples of Jesus
- Worshipping in ways that are authentic, creative and Christ-centred
- Strengthening our presence in Leigh-on-Sea as people of compassion and mission
- Working more closely with partner churches in our town
- Following the leading of the Holy Spirit together
We give thanks to God for this moment, for Ian and his family, and for the future He continues to shape among us.
Watch the Service
If you missed the occasion, you can watch the full induction gathering here:
YouTube – The Induction of Rev. Ian Smith
May Jesus Christ be honoured in all we do as we move forward — together — as His church in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.