by Obianuju Mbah, Christian Today
Alpha pioneer Nicky Gumbel is as passionate as ever about seeing ordinary believers introduce others to the Christian faith, especially at a time when so many people are searching for meaning and purpose – and there are signs they are increasingly turning to the Church.
Speaking on the Evangelical 360° podcast with Brian Stiller, Gumbel shared his perspective on reports of a Quiet Revival in the UK. The phrase was coined by the Bible Society after it published research earlier this year suggesting an increasing openness to Christianity and growing church attendance among young men in particular.
Gumbel believes that there are signs of a “return” to Christianity. As an example, he said that the turnout to the previous week’s Sunday service at his church, Holy Trinity Brompton, had far exceeded normal numbers.
“They had real problems at the 11:30 service because at this time of year, it wouldn’t normally be completely full. But not only was the church completely full, but all the overflow rooms were completely full and they virtually had to close the building because they just couldn’t get everybody in,” he said.
Gumbel has heard similar stories not only from churches in the UK but in other countries too.
“Something is happening,” he said.