Basingstoke Chapter Launches with Inspiring Testimony of Faith, Love and Hope
The Inaugural meeting of the Basingstoke Chapter of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship took place on Thursday 8 October 2026. It brought together local guests for a lunchtime meeting centred on Christian fellowship. They talked about the history of FGB and a moving testimony of faith, love and family.
Held at the BizSpace office complex on Basing View, the meeting was presided over by Robert Stevenson. At the meeting they welcomed a special guest, the Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Councillor Jacky Tustain.
Introducing the Vision and History of FGB
The meeting began with David Reading, President of the Isle of Wight FGB Chapter. He introduced the history and aims of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship.
David’s introduction reflected on the vision behind the Fellowship: bringing people together through business and professional networks to share the Christian faith. Gathering to hear personal testimonies and encourage others to discover more about Jesus.
David also highlighted historical figures published in The Happiest People on Earth by John and Elizabeth Sherrill. Illustrating the international reach and growth of the Fellowship during the 1970s.
The introduction set the scene for the main speaker, giving those attending an opportunity to learn more about the purpose of FGB. And its continuing vision for Christian fellowship and outreach.
Robert Stevenson Shares His Story in ‘Meet the Author’
The main speaker was Robert Stevenson, who presented ‘Meet the Author’, sharing the story behind his best-selling book, Out of Darkness and into the Love of the Father’s Heart – The Story of My Daughter Sarah.
Having recently returned to Basingstoke after more than 30 years teaching English in mainland China and Hong Kong. Robert spoke about an experience that dramatically changed his life.
During a visit to an orphanage in mainland China, Robert encountered Sarah, a little girl who was blind and close to death. He described how he felt God speaking directly to him, prompting him to pick her up and take responsibility for her future.
What followed was a challenging journey. It included rejection by the authorities and the need for Robert and his wife to trust God for the way forward. The couple stayed determined and followed God’s guidance. Their determination eventually led to Sarah being adopted and taken to Hong Kong. Which was still under British rule at the time. A long battle but worth it all to become the family they had hoped for.
Robert’s account offered a powerful example of how an encounter with one vulnerable child can change the course of a family’s life. God’s guidance has become a testimony to faith, perseverance and love.
Sarah’s Remarkable Journey
Today, 32 years later, Sarah has built a life of her own in Hong Kong and Shenzhen, mainland China.
She graduated with a BA (Hons) degree in English for Professional Purposes and Corporate Communication from City University of Hong Kong. This was in conjunction with the University of Central Lancashire in the UK.
Sarah now works as a translator from English into Mandarin and Cantonese at City University of Hong Kong. She also works as a guide for Dialogue in the Dark with the Crossroads Foundation. Her achievements and independence provide a remarkable conclusion to the story Robert shared with those attending. Demonstrating how a life that began in such difficult circumstances has developed into one of opportunity, purpose and service to others.
Fellowship and Conversation Over Lunch
Robert’s testimony deeply moved those that were in attendance. Prompting further conversations and discussion over lunch at the Village Hotel in Basingstoke.
The meeting brought together a range of guests, including the Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Councillor Jacky Tustain; David Reading, President of the Isle of Wight FGB Chapter; Pastor Ben Awoseyila of Healing Springs Fellowship; and other attendees.
Although numbers were modest at this first gathering, the meeting marked an important beginning for FGB in Basingstoke.
Looking Ahead with Faith
Launching a new chapter takes time, prayer and perseverance. The Basingstoke gathering was an opportunity to introduce the Fellowship, build relationships and share a testimony that demonstrated the difference faith can make in people’s lives.
As the chapter looks to the future, the organisers are entrusting the results to God and praying that more men and women will be drawn into the fellowship.
The words of Zechariah 4:10 offer an encouraging reminder for a new beginning:
“Do not despise the day of small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” — Zechariah 4:10
The inaugural meeting may have been small, but it represents the start of a new opportunity to build Christian relationships, share testimonies and make the message of Jesus known in the Basingstoke community.