Revd Ian Galloway

Ian studied Medicine at Newcastle many years ago, and started following Jesus in his first year, after discovering that the resurrection was true, Jesus was alive and was inviting Ian to be his friend.

He became obsessed with evangelism, leading the CU mission to the University in his third year, which turned into a two-week extravaganza. The pain of trying to combine this with medicine raised the question: what do you want me to do Lord? After months of silence God made it clear Ian was called to ministry. His first job was cleaner at the Jesus Centre, Birmingham, giving Ian a lifelong love of cleaning and showing him what leadership is – clearing up mess to make things good for others to enjoy.

Returning to the North East, marrying Heather who had continued on the medical course, they moved to Byker. Ian worked as teaching elder and evangelist for the United Reformed Church, Byker and as part-time Anglican Chaplain at St. Nicholas Hospital, Gosforth.

Living in Byker revealed that for evangelism to be fruitful the church needed renewal. God spoke that a new start was required. New wine needed a new wineskin. Ian and Heather started a new church in Byker with four friends. This became what is now City Church. Ian served as lead pastor for thirty-three years and a highly influential church grew with a culture of grace, authenticity and empowerment. Hundreds of leaders were trained, several of which lead churches themselves. A charity working with asylum seekers was started winning North East Charity of the year. Four churches were planted and many more served.

The experience of leading showed Ian that good theology was essential for strong growth and he studied for a Diploma from Cambridge and an MA from Cranmer.

Ian loves Heather, their five children, six grandchildren and two Labradors. He enjoys scuba-diving, reading theology, renovating houses, and suffers from a life-long fascination with John’s gospel.

Ian may be contacted by email on ian.d.galloway@durham.ac.uk