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On 1 February, Bishop Debbie joined the congregation of St John’s Church, Corby for their Mission Focus Sunday, a service dedicated to celebrating and exploring the work of the church’s own initiative: The Chapel Gym. The service highlighted the gym’s story, its mission values, and included the commissioning of 12 new gym chaplains.
Launched originally as a mission outreach project from St John’s, The Chapel Gym has since grown into a fully established charity at the heart of Corby. Its mission is to support the physical, psychological and spiritual wellbeing of the community, offering high‑quality, affordable fitness facilities alongside the presence of trained sports ministers who are available for conversation, and support.
During the service, church and gym members Kev and Tammy shared personal testimonies. Kev spoke about his ongoing journey of alcohol recovery and the vital role The Chapel Gym has played in his life. Tammy shared her journey to faith, through the faithful witness of the gym manager, and how God had powerfully answered her doubts.
Following the testimonies, Bishop Debbie - joined by Christian Wienkamp of Sports Chaplaincy UK - commissioned the 12 new gym chaplains. Most are members of St John’s, with additional chaplains coming from churches across Corby and Kettering. They will support gym members and guide the spiritual work of the gym.
In her sermon, Bishop Debbie preached on the Missio Dei—God’s mission—and the call for all Christians to live as missionaries, both near and far. After the service, she visited the gym with a small group from St John’s, including gym manager Chris McGlone, to see the significant refurbishments to the reception and chapel area.
Reflecting on the day, The Revd Joe Griffiths, Curate in the benefice of Saint John the Baptist with the Epiphany and Gretton, said: “It was an immensely blessed time, and a great opportunity to take stock of how much God is doing in Corby through The Chapel Gym.”