Belper Baptist Church

Robert was born in Hertfordshire, where he grew up attending his local Methodist Church and made a commitment to Christ in his late teens. Having obtained a degree in Computer Science at University College London, Robert then spent 10 years working in software development before training for Methodist ministry at Queen's College, Birmingham. Robert's ministry-related studies at the University of Birmingham have included emphases on theology, pastoral care and mission.

Robert met his wife Liz during his time serving as a minister in Hertfordshire, they were married at the Baptist Church where Liz was worshipping in 2003 and they now have a teenage daughter. Robert enjoys spending time with his family and friends and, though he would not describe himself as being into sport, he keeps fit, explores the wonders of God's creation, and has raised a bit of money for charity by walking. Robert has enjoyed annual walking weekends with some long-term friends for many years and, in recent years, has embarked on longer-distance and more challenging walks, such as the Peak Pilgrimage and part of the Camino de Santiago; he is working on exploring more of the Peak District, the Lake District 'Wainwrights' (big hills!) and Snowdonia, enjoying both the challenge of exploring new terrain and the surprises of the unfolding landscape and encounters with wildlife that he finds along the way.

Robert's key priority for ministry is leading an outward-looking, welcoming, encouraging and equipping church where people of all ages and backgrounds will feel at home. Robert especially enjoys seeing people coming to faith and growing in faith; he aims to make worship and theology accessible and sees small groups and encouragement as being key to encouraging people to deepen their relationships with God and develop in Christian discipleship.