Church Leaders

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. (Psalm 32:8 NIV)

Phil Watkins - Pastor

Phil & Shirley have been married 38 years and have 5 children and 4 grandchildren. They have been in church leadership in Mansfield, Folkestone, Weston-Super-Mare and Bristol. They are passionate about encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the joy that comes through knowing God through Jesus Christ, and serving their neighbours.

They enjoy country walks, gardening, cycling (Phil), mediaeval history (Shirley), caravanning, and spending time with family.
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Phil has been a teacher and local government officer. He holds degrees in music and education and a Master of Theology.

Dave Cooling - Treasurer

Dave and his wife Hilary have lived in Montpelier all their married lives (44years!) and have worshipped at Ivy Church nearly 40 years; their two children attended St Barnabas and Fairfield schools. Dave worked in Bristol secondary schools for 27 years and then became education manager for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution which involved travelling throughout the SW Region.

Since retiring Dave has enjoyed travelling, loves outdoor activities (walking, camping and gardening), has started playing badminton. On top of this he swims regularly! Dave has found some interesting volunteering activities; one highlight being as a Games Maker at the Olympics and Paralympics.

​He served as a Chair of Governors of a Bristol Nursery School and Children’s Centre. Dave now volunteers regularly for Tearfund as a speaker, a local hospital as a welcome guide and the National Trust as a learning volunteer at Tyntesfield. Dave is also the Church Treasurer.

Sam Haruna - Elder

I am Sam Haruna. My family and I have been with Ivy church since 1995. My wife and I are blessed with four children and two grand children. I have been greatly blessed while fellowshipping in Ivy Church. My hope is that God will continue to glorify Himself in the congregation of his people and that the community around Ivy Church will understand and appreciate the work of the Lord in their midst. I love reading the word of God and praying at the start of each day as a family devotion. I love walking, jogging and cycling.