Islington is a borough marked by stark contrasts — where wealth and deprivation exist side by side and where loneliness can thrive despite the dense population.

Gary leads the missional team at St Giles Christian Mission, located in the borough. With LCM Missionary Andrew Barnett, they have been reaching people living in the local estates surrounding the church for the past few months. One interaction that stands out to Gary was that with an elderly man living alone.

“When we first knocked on his door, he was hesitant,” Gary recalls.

“But over time, as we kept visiting, he opened up. One day, he broke down in tears, grateful just to have someone to talk to.”

Another man they visited also became visibly emotional.

“He said in the 30 years he’s lived on the estate, no one has knocked on his door not wanting something,” says Gary.

“It’s moments like these that remind me why we do this.”

Gary’s journey

Gary’s own journey to Jesus has been anything but ordinary.

“I’ve had a colourful past,” Gary admits. “From struggling with addiction to homelessness, I’ve been at rock bottom. But Jesus pulled me out.”

Today, Gary’s life is marked by a passion to share the gospel.

“I’ve been on the streets. I know what it feels like to be unseen,” he explains. “That’s why I’m committed to knocking on doors, meeting people where they are, and showing them that there is hope and love in Christ.”

Gary’s commitment runs deep. He’s reduced his work hours to spend more time helping the church share the gospel. He’s turned down the chance to move to a more affordable home outside London, choosing instead to stay in the heart of the community he serves.

“This work isn’t just important to the people we reach; it’s vital for me too,” he says. “It reminds me of how far I’ve come and how much more God can do through us.”

For Gary, Andrew has been instrumental in his growth in confidence to share the gospel with people in his community as well as in the deepening of his faith.

“Andrew has been a massive help,” Gary shares. “He didn’t just bring ideas; he brought energy, encouragement, and a deep commitment to seeing lives changed.”

For Andrew, to journey with Gary and have the opportunity to disciple him has been a joy.

“Gary really wants to learn, and he has a great willingness to grow in his faith,” says Andrew. “I see him taking the lead more often, initiating conversations and building deeper relationships within the community.”

Partnership with LCM

When Gary joined St Giles, he was eager to serve, but like the rest of the church, he needed support and direction. The church had been praying for opportunities to engage with their community for years but lacked confidence and knowledge.

This vision to reach their community gained clarity and direction when the London City Mission (LCM) became a partner in the church’s outreach work.

Andrew has modelled door-to-door outreach, inviting church members to observe and participate without pressure, alleviating any fears they may have had about sharing the gospel with strangers.

Office workers, a radiographer, and a teacher’s aide by day – they’ve all committed to going out into the community to knock on people’s doors and let them know the church was here for them.

“Andrew’s desire to reach out to our neighbours has been infectious,” says Brad, Pastor at St Giles Christian Mission.

“Our congregation is more impassioned and excited to share the gospel. We’re seeing new relationships form and people taking their first steps into faith.

“The biggest need in this area is for people to know Christ,” he emphasises. “And we’re committed to being a church that meets that need, one conversation at a time.”