Why I’m a Puritan at Heart, and Longing for a Cornish Church in that Vein

In a world that often feels chaotic and spiritually adrift, I find myself drawn to the deep convictions and simple piety of the Puritans. Their emphasis on God’s sovereignty, the authority of Scripture, and the necessity of personal holiness resonates deeply within me. It’s a faith that calls for both head and heart engagement, a faith that transforms lives from the inside out.

Living in the stunning beauty of Cornwall, I yearn for a church that embodies these Puritan principles. A church where the preaching is expository, delving into the riches of God’s Word verse by verse. A church where the singing is heartfelt and God-glorifying, drawing us into deeper communion with Him. A church where prayer is fervent and persistent, acknowledging our dependence on God’s grace. A church where the members are committed to one another, spurring each other on towards Christ-likeness.

I envision a community that is marked by its love for God and its zeal for His glory. A community that is counter-cultural, standing firm against the prevailing winds of secularism and relativism. A community that is a beacon of light in a darkened world, pointing others to the hope found in Christ alone.

Why Cornwall? This land, steeped in Celtic Christian heritage, seems ripe for a revival of Puritan-like faith. The rugged beauty of the landscape mirrors the stark honesty of Puritan theology. The independent spirit of the Cornish people aligns with the Puritans’ nonconformist stance.

I believe a church planted in this style would not only thrive but also serve as a catalyst for spiritual renewal across the region. It would be a place where seekers and sceptics alike could encounter the transforming power of the gospel. It would be a place where believers could grow in their faith and be equipped for effective ministry.

Planting such a church is no small undertaking. It will require men and women of God who are committed to the Puritan vision. It will require prayer, sacrifice, and perseverance. But I am convinced that the rewards will far outweigh the challenges.

So let us pray, let us labour, let us trust in God’s providence. May He raise up a Puritan-hearted church in Cornwall, a church that will shine brightly for His glory.