roots+rivers
A FAMILY OF CHURCHES
We believe in apostolic ministry and together our team offers support, encouragement and equipping in local churches and beyond.
PAUL MEATHREL
Paul is pioneering a new church in Cheltenham alongside leading the roots + rivers family of churches. He and his wife Lottie have two children and have been a part of our family of churches for over 20 years. Paul's passion is to see the church built, the kingdom extended and the lost reached. Paul is also part of the Salt & Light Advance Sphere team.
AL BARNETT
Al has lived in west Oxfordshire and been part of our group of churches for over thirty years. He has recently retired as Vice-Principal at d'Overbroeck's School in Oxford and is also privileged to lead Aston and Cote Community Church with his wife, Hazel. Al enjoys walking, playing golf very badly (according to him) and reading.
HAZEL BARNETT
Hazel is married to Alastair, and they have three grown up sons and three grandchildren. Hazel was previously Special Educational Needs Coordinator at the King's School, Witney, and is now a self-employed access arrangements assessor and online tutor. As well as spending time with family and friends, Hazel enjoys handicrafts and drawing.
RUSS BEESE
Russ is the lead pastor of Witney Community Church, he is married to Rebecca and they have three children. Prior to leading the church Russ was a teacher and head teacher and is currently Chair of Governors for The King's School. Russ is passionate about helping people become all they can in God.
JOHN ELLWOOD
John is an elder at Carterton Community Church and is married to Celia – they have four children and eight grandchildren. John is a retired teacher and head teacher, having served on the staff of The King’s School, Witney, for thirty years. He enjoys reading, walking, photography and anything to do with his family and cricket!
KATIE GAMBLE
Katie is a mum of three and is very nearly at the stage when she'll be the shortest in the family! Katie is a photographer, who loves to dance. Often when at events she is able to combine all three of her passions; meeting new people, dancing and taking pics. Katie has a heart for the lost and intentionally spends time with people who do not know Jesus yet.
JOHN GRIDLEY
John has been part of this family of churches since he was born! He has been a part of three and half of our congregations! He and his wife Jen have three children and lead the church in Carterton. They have a real passion for worship and seeing salvation break out in their town and beyond
JASON HUFFADINE
Jason usually thinks there’s probably ‘another’ way to do most things and so has a great deal of FUN on the edge of impossibility. He is usually found in a coffee shop chatting with someone or writing something, or, if not in a coffee shop, then on a creative adventure with his family.