Staff Team
Various members of The Plant churches work to serve the network, some of them full time:
Ministers
As elders of The Plant churches, Phil and Mike oversee all elements of our day-to-day activities as well as directing The Plant’s long-term vision.
Phil Keymer
Although I was originally strongly opposed to Christianity, God turned my life around as a teenager when I started following Jesus Christ. I went to Bristol University to train as a vet, but after a few years, I changed direction and started working towards becoming a vicar. (I strongly deny the suggestion that I had been working my way through the career alphabet from a young age.) After marrying Louise, we moved to London and I continued my training for full time Christian ministry, first on the Proclamation Trust's 'Cornhill Training Course', and then at Oak Hill Theological College. I was then ordained as a minister in the Church of England and served two curacies in the Manchester area. I have been a minister at The Plant since it started in September 2004, and now lead Living Word, Salford and co-lead Monday@7 with Mike.
Mike Tindall
My parents are Christians, so I was brought up to believe in God and have always had some sort of faith. As a teenager I struggled with doubts and came to a deeper understanding of what it means to follow Jesus, thanks to some wonderful friends and youth leaders. I am married to an incredible woman and we have five lively children. We moved to Manchester in 2009 to work for The Plant and are excited about seeing the gospel transform this great city. I am pastor of Grace Church Manchester in Withington and co-lead the Monday@7 church with Phil.
Administrator
As part-time administrator, Sarah deals with administration across the whole network.
Sarah Frazer
Growing up in South Manchester, I expanded my geographical knowledge and attended Salford University, studying Popular Music and Recording. I then spent two years teaching music at a secondary school, before deciding to take a year out and work for The Plant. I have been coming to Living Word, Salford for five years where I have received a great amount of biblical teaching helping me to not just develop my relationship with God, but also my knowledge of His awesome splendour.
Deacons
Teams of ‘deacons’ assist the elders in the running of each Plant church. In addition, some deacons serve The Plant network as a whole:
Joe Byrne – music
Sharon Crossland – treasurer
Sarah Frazer - administration
Stephen Harbage – courses, conferences & conventions
Lucy Davidson – weekend away
Other church members also generously give of their time to help out in various administrative tasks, particularly managing our finances.
Trustees
The Plant is a registered charity (1108310). Our trustees are Justin Mote, David Gibb, John Hindley and Steve Michael.
AFFILIATIONS
Interview with Nikki, Living Word, Salford
I wasn't a Christian before I came to The Plant, and it was the best decision I ever made. I felt instantly at home, and at ease.