New Head of Church Growth and Evangelism Appointed

We are pleased to announce the appointment of the Revd Dr Trevor Hutton as our new Head of Church Growth and Evangelism. In his new role, Trevor will work alongside clergy and lay leaders to support the delivery of the Church Planting and Revitalisation element of the diocese’s vision through the development of Resource Churches, partnership with the Antioch Network, and the growth of New Worshipping Communities.

Trevor brings extensive experience in evangelism, church planting and missional leadership. Sharing more of his background as he prepares to take up this role, Trevor said:

 “I come from Belfast, Northern Ireland, having grown up during ‘The Troubles’, which shaped much of my life as a child and teenager. After becoming a Christian and sensing a call to ministry, I came to Nazarene Theological College in Manchester in 1988. I then moved to the Glasgow area, where I spent twelve years working as an evangelist and church planter, particularly in new housing estates.

“In 2008, I returned to Manchester to establish a Centre for Church Planting and Evangelism, bringing together missional education, practical training and coaching for churches, ordained and lay leaders. As Director of Forge England and Wales, I have had the privilege of training and equipping hundreds of people to plant new churches. My doctoral research at Cliff College explored how an understanding of the Trinity can shape and inform church planting, and alongside this I have continued to lead experimental lay teams planting missional communities and fresh expressions of church across Manchester. Over the past six years, I have also been involved in the replanting of a church in Stoke‑on‑Trent, learning afresh about the challenges and opportunities of urban ministry.

“I am single and have two wonderful children, James (24) and John-Mark (28) who are my pride and joy. I’m quite musical, and you’ll only need to be around for a while to discover my love for the hymnology of Lennon and McCartney. I’m a Man United fan, guitarist, hill walker, adventurer, and frequent Cineworld visitor, all of which help me escape the routines into other worlds.”

Welcoming Trevor to the diocese, Bishop Matthew said:

“I am delighted that Trevor is joining us as Head of Church Growth and Evangelism. He brings a wealth of experience alongside a deep commitment to working collaboratively with others. I am excited about the way he will support and help shape our diocesan vision, particularly as we seek to grow new churches, revitalise existing ones, and enable people and communities to flourish in the name of Christ.”

Speaking about his hopes for his ministry in Manchester Diocese, Trevor added:

“I am so pleased to be appointed as Head of Church Growth and Evangelism and believe God has led me to work with the Diocese of Manchester for such a time as this. I am excited by the diocesan vision and look forward to playing my part, alongside others, as we seek the shalom of the towns and cities across our diocese.”