About us
At New Vine Westlakes, we believe that God has a wonderful plan for you! Life is better when lived in community and you are welcome to join us here to connect, grow in faith and make a difference in the world around us.
We are currently meeting at Charlton Christian College Hall, 43 Fassifern Road, Fassifern at 9:30 each Sunday.
Mission
To be a community of believers who Love God, Love People and Live Out the Call of Jesus in the Westlakes area and beyond
Values
- Come as you are – everyone is welcome
- Everyone matters – every person is uniquely and wonderfully made
- Created for community – life is not meant to be lived alone
- Walk by the Spirit – active in our spiritual gifts
- Empowered for mission – near and far
Vision
To be a church of disciples who make disciples…
Our Staff
David & Sarah
Macpherson
Lead Pastors
David had been on the pastoral team at New Vine Church in Maryland for almost 5 years when he and his wife Sarah were called to Thrive Church to bring it into the New Vine network of churches as New Vine Westlakes. Originally from Scotland, David and Sarah became Christians in 2004 while living on the island of Cyprus. They settled-back into Newcastle in 2016 where their 3 adult children live.
David is passionate about seeing people encounter the risen Jesus, living out the Holy Spirit empowered life that brings glory to God and going deeper in their faith. He loves preaching and teaching and believes that life is better when it is done in community. Sarah has a real heart for people and Women’s ministry in particular, encouraging them to let the love and light of Jesus shine through and be all that He is calling them to be.
David and Sarah love to travel (overseas or camping), play games, cycle, read and walk their dog.
Rob
Sweeney
Associate Pastor
Though born in the Newcastle area, Rob spent most of his youth growing up in Central West NSW. He is married to Crystle and they have 3 amazing kids. Rob studied theology through Morling College while doing a pastoral traineeship with Dubbo Baptist Church. Near the end of his studies, he moved to Lake Macquarie for his first role as a pastor.
Rob and Crystle heard about the launch of New Vine Westlakes and felt that God was calling them to join this church family. They began attending from the official launch service and Rob joined the pastoral team in late 2021. Rob enjoys music and is often involved with the worship team on a Sunday morning. He is passionate about helping people learn more about Jesus and challenging them to grow in their faith.
When he has spare time, Rob is a keen gamer (both electronic and old school board games) and he is happy to talk about any sport you can think of.
Elinor Chapman
Financial Administrator
Rachael Straker
Kids Ministry Coordinator
Rachael Straker has been part of New Vine Westlakes with her husband and three sons since it was established is 2021.
Rachael is trained Primary School teacher and has been working in Christian Schools for over 15 years.
Together, with a team of fantastic volunteers, Rachael heads up our BLAST children’s program which runs each Sunday during the school term. We look forward to welcoming any and all new families.