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Office Manager, Clare Coghlan (pictured above on the left) and Head of Finance, Zoe Bond both started working for the Mission last year. Here they introduce themselves.

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Clare

Before I joined BCM I had been homeschooling our two children, as well as doing some part-time work English tutoring and editing. We first became involved with BCM as a family when my husband Giles was on the Urban Challenge training year (now In-Service Training) in 2004-5, and he then became a City Missionary until 2009. We loved that time of ministry, and it was a joy to support Giles in the opportunities that arose to share God’s word and be involved in outreach. However, fair to say I never thought about being at BCM myself! Fast forward a good number of years... I saw the role of Office Manager advertised, at a time when I was looking for the next step in my life, and I thought I would apply.

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I love the twin heartbeat of BCM: helping people in times of need and sharing God’s Word. Even from the office it is possible to do that on occasion! It is good to know that the Mission is doing this across the city, week in and week out. On occasions, it can be a challenge seeing the complex needs of some people who are asking for help. However, it is also reassuring to know that God is in control. He is drawing people to himself from all walks of life. Being part of BCM offers the immense privilege of reflecting a small glimpse of God’s character to those who don’t yet know him.

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Zoe

Before I joined BCM I worked for Tipton & Coseley Building Society as their Senior Finance Technician. My church (Grace Community Church, Tipton) has supported BCM for a long time and I knew through several members of the church about the work that it does.  It was actually Clare putting on our church WhatsApp group about the job roles that BCM wanted to fill that started the process for me. I have never felt more led by God to do something as I have through the process of applying for the Head of Finance role.

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There have definitely been challenges in adjusting to a Christian charity working environment but the change has been made so much easier by the amazing people who work at BCM, particularly the Finance Team. It is so encouraging to work amongst a brilliant group of Christians, all aiming for the same goals - to share the gospel and help those in need. I have loved my time here so far and am really looking forward to continuing my work at the Mission.

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