Michael Williamson and Michele Williamson are the dynamic husband and wife duo leading the London International Christian Church. Michael, a former VP of Business Development for a tech firm and an industry professional in film and TV, transitioned into full-time ministry after a transformative spiritual journey. Michele, with a rich multicultural background and a strong family heritage, plays a crucial role in their ministry efforts. Together, they have spearheaded the growth of multiple church congregations across Europe, emphasising a unique blend of modern outreach methods and heartfelt mentorship.

In this engaging episode of the Business of Church podcast, hosts Des Stewart and Cory Belfon have a heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Michael and Michele Williamson from the London International Christian Church. They delve into the couple’s inspiring personal journeys, their radical career shifts into ministry, and their experiences building a thriving church community in London.

Throughout this discussion, they touch on profound themes such as the intersection of faith and business, the challenges of modern-day evangelism, and the essential role of mentorship and genuine relationships. Michael and Michele also share their insights on the future of the church, potential uses of AI in ministry, and the importance of transparency and strategic financial planning in fostering a sustainable church environment. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone interested in church growth, leadership, and the innovative ways faith communities can adapt to contemporary challenges.

• Faith-Driven Transformation: Michael and Michele's personal stories highlight how faith can dramatically change life directions and career paths.
• Mentorship and Genuine Relationships: Building meaningful relationships and providing strong mentorship, especially to young members, is crucial for a thriving church community.
• Financial Transparency and Planning: Transparent financial practices and strategic planning are essential for sustainable church growth and community impact.
• Innovative Church Outreach: Modern methods like AI, arts, music, and sports can play significant roles in making the church more relatable and appealing to younger generations.
• Global Impact: The Williamsons' efforts in expanding their ministry across Europe showcase the importance of vision and dedication in spreading faith internationally.

1. "There's two paths that I believe you can take in life: the path of humility and the path of humiliation." – Michael Williamson
2. "We left both professions, sold everything, and moved here in 2010." – Michael Williamson
3. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." – Michael Williamson
4. "We were the foundation of twelve other churches across Europe." – Michele Williamson
5. "We inspire kids, we mentor them, we challenge them physically, educationally, in every way." – Michael Williamson

• London International Christian Church: Website
• Follow Michael and Michele Williamson on social media for more updates and inspirational content: Michele Instagram, Michael Instagram
• Relevant concepts: AI in Ministry, Transparent Financial Practices, Mentorship and Youth Outreach

Don't miss out on this insightful episode packed with real-life...

Alex Dawson is the founder and director of Alex Martin Commercial, a company established in 2010 that specialises in supporting faith-based groups to secure and acquire church buildings. With over 15-20 years of experience in the property market, Alex has become a prominent figure in the church property sector, especially within the Greater London area.

Pastor Priscilla Asibey is an investment analyst with a proficient background in portfolio and fund management, financial analysis and modeling, mergers and acquisitions, and real estate projects. She is the deputy head of the Treasury Operations Department at Ghana International Bank. Alongside her professional career, she is also closely involved in the International Gospel of Truth Church (IGTC UK) as pastor Sylvester Apoku Manu's wife, who has been in ministry for more than 17 years.

In this riveting episode of the Business of Church podcast, hosts Des Stewart and Cory Belfon welcome Alex Dawson and Pastor Priscilla Asibey to discuss the complexities and triumphs of acquiring a church building. The conversation delves into the tenacity and faith required to navigate the property market and the strategic planning that led to the purchase of a building for the International Gospel of Truth Church.

The journey opens with Pastor Priscilla sharing the arduous process of relocating the church multiple times due to change of use requirements and escalating rental expenses. The discussion sheds light on the church's relentless pursuit of securing a permanent home and the substantial financial and personal sacrifices made to achieve this goal. Alex Dawson weighs in as an agent from the property sector, providing candid realism and advice to faith organisations on the cut-throat arena of commercial real estate, especially within London.

• The episode zeroes in on the importance of financial readiness and having a robust business strategy in addition to spiritual conviction.
• Alex discusses the challenges churches face within the property market, notably the high demand versus limited supply of suitably classified buildings.
• Pastor Priscilla's account is a testament to the rewards of daring faith coupled with sound financial management and planning.
• The contrast between the need for being commercially savvy and reliance on divine intervention is thoughtfully explored.
• Strategies for long-term financial planning and securing sufficient funds for property acquisition are addressed.

• Transparency, strategic long-term planning, and the readiness to make personal sacrifices are crucial for securing a church building.
• Commercial mortgages for church properties often require a deposit exceeding the standard 30% due to market competition.
• It's vital to be on the property ladder to ensure growth and legacy for the church community.
• Trusting relationships and clear communication with agents and financial institutions can significantly influence the outcome of property acquisitions.
• Faith-based organisations must balance spiritual beliefs with pragmatic and informed financial decisions.

1. "The only way a church ever gets on the property ladder is with a story like this, bouncing from building to building..." - Alex Dawson
2. "You need to be sat with your bank manager or your financial broker and be able to press the button." - Alex Dawson
3. "You've got to get on the ladder and they, their ego, their pride doesn't allow it... create the foundation." - Alex Dawson

• Alex Martin Commercial: Website
• International Gospel of Truth Church (IGTC UK) information:

Pastor Timothy Ramsay Pastor Timothy Ramsay serves as Senior Pastor at The Place of Grace UK, a vibrant church in the heart of London. Pastor Ramsay and his wife, Adwoa Ramsay are also devoted parents to their three children: Timmika, Shiloh and Josiah and their grand children, Lylaa-Rose and Saint-Monroe and enjoy spending time with them above all else.

Pastor Timothy Ramsay’s heart is to teach people what the Word of God powerfully in a way that inspires, practically in a way that can be applied and prophetically, in a way that speaks to the future God has for them. He has been pastoring for almost 20 years.

Prophet Phil Vermuelen is married to Pastor Anneline and they have three beautiful boys. MyChurch London was planted in January 2011 in their home in Wembley, UK. Apostle Phill first received the call of God at the tender age of 17 and both he and his wife have been serving in ministry for over 20 years. Apostle Phill completed his theological studies in 2002 and has a heart to see men and women of God raised up and released into their prophetic destiny. He is the author of Prophetic Intelligence, which is a great source demystifying the prophetic call and function. He has also released a new book entitled The Honour Code.

In this thought-provoking episode of "The Business of Church," hosts Des Stewart and Cory Belfon engage with two profound spiritual leaders, Pastor Timothy Ramsay and Prophet Phil Vermuelen, in a discussion that revolves around fostering unity within the church community and the broader implications of such unity on society. The conversation delves into the intricacies of balancing doctrinal adherence with the evolving nature of contemporary culture.

The episode begins with an intimate look into the personal journeys of the guests, shedding light on decisive moments that shaped their paths to leadership within the church. As the dialogue unfolds, the notion of unity takes centre stage, with a critical analysis of how churches can maintain doctrinal purity while adapting to societal progressions.

Furthermore, the dialogue explores the practical aspects of running a church with business acumen, centring around the idea of collaboration to achieve common goals. The notion that unity can indeed be a powerful catalyst for positive societal change is underscored, urging church leaders to consider new models of cooperation and shared resources.

• Unity in the church extends beyond mere collaboration; it requires a shared vision and recognition of a common goal that transcends individual agendas.
• Successful leadership within the church community demands humility, adaptability, and a willingness to engage with congregation members on a personal level.
• Innovative thinking and the utilisation of contemporary tools, such as AI, could play a significant role in reaching and engaging modern audiences.
• The power of coming together as a community is highlighted, offering the potential for achieving significant societal influence and support for congregation members.
• A willingness to rethink and potentially restructure current church practices is needed to accommodate changing cultural and economic landscapes.

• Pastor Timothy Ramsay: "There is more that unites us than divides us."
• Prophet Phil Vermuelen: "The purpose of this gospel is never to be untouchable, but to touch the people."
• Pastor Timothy Ramsay: "The scriptures were written to a certain time, to a certain people, in a certain culture."
• Prophet Phil Vermuelen: "One of the mandates of every leader is to translate heaven into contemporary culture."

• My Church London - www.mychurch.uk/
• Place of Grace UK - www.instagram.com/theplaceofgraceuk/
• Good to...