We are a friendly, family church, where all ages are welcome to worship together and to get to know Jesus better. Our mission is simply three words: Worship | Disciple | Transform.
We also have a leadership team which consists of our full-time vicar, two full-time curates, a part-time children and families worker, a part-time youth enabler, a licensed lay reader, two churchwardens, a treasurer, a lead on prayer, pastoral care and outreach.
Rev Matt Taylor | Vicar
Matt was ordained in 2011, before that his career career was in Design and Media working for CWR Publishing and managing their creative team. He has a BA in Fine Art, and has for many years been a semi-professional musician playing secular venues, but also has much experience leading worship at various churches/Christian events. After training at St Mellitus, his Curacy and Associate Minister’s post was in Northamptonshire, before moving to Coventry to take up the post at St Martin’s. He is married to Sandra who is a singer and is currently training to become a counsellor, she regularly helps with Sunday Worship. They have two grown up children who are both married, and they have recently become grandparents, which they are loving.
Rev John Samuel | Curate
John previously worked as a motor trader before working in church roles. He moved to the Diocese from Walthamstow London and lives with his children Shalom (12) and Nehemiah (15). His daughter Esther (17) lives nearby with Johns wife with whom he co-parents. John graduated in Theology and Ministerial Studies in 2017. During his studies, God began to call him to ordained ministry in the Church of England. John trained at St. Mellitus College in Chelmsford. He has been involved in cross-cultural mission and ministry, pioneering in England and overseas. John loves to make disciples through preaching, teaching, pastoral care, practical help and friendships. He believes that when we worship in spirit and truth, God begins to transform cities, societies, nations and lays the foundation of new things through us. Please pray that Jesus Christ uses John’s gifts and talents to reach the communities of Finham and beyond with the gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed.
Rev Liz Goodwin | Curate
Liz was an Occupational Therapist before feeling called into ministry in the Church of England. She has always been part of Coventry diocese, although she moved away from Coventry for a few years in 2020. Returning to Coventry for this post at St Martin’s felt like she was “coming home” to the city. Liz has two children – a 4 year old and a 1 year old. Her eldest is at Stivichall Primary – one of the two primary schools in the parish. Liz trained for ordination at St Mellitus College in Nottingham. Liz has a heart for making the gospel accessible for all people, a big part of this is considering how best churches can be accessible in many different ways, to ensure all people feel welcome and that they are a valued part of the body Christ. Due to being on maternity leave before starting her post she was able to experience the love and warm welcome that St Martin’s gives to all who attend. Liz is interested in reaching out to the community and considering ways to engage with those who are on the fringes of the church and community and share Jesus’ love with them. She is excited to be part of the many ways St Martin’s already reaches out to the community.