A new Christian church that started its meetings in York last year has been officially launched in a special meeting at the Ripon and York St. John College.

York City Church, which is part of the New Frontiers International family of churches, started meetings in May 1999 when several families specifically moved to York to work with an existing group of local Christians to form a new church.

At the meeting, Christian Selvaratnam, who moved to York from Bishop's Stortford in March 1999, and Steve Hurd, who moved to York from Bedford in January 1999, were appointed as the co-leaders of the new church.

Its leaders say York City Church is a new church but is firmly established in the historical heritage of the Christian church; committed to an evangelical outlook and to be relevant and contemporary.

Said Christian Selvaratnam, leader of the church: "We are here to

demonstrate that the Christian church is alive and well, not boring or irrelevant, but meaningful for the people of York today. Our commitment is to work in unity and co-operation with the existing churches in York, building on the good relationships we have already established.

"York has a proud Christian history - we want to be part of its proud Christian future."

York City Church meets every week at the Ripon and York St. John College on Lord Mayor's Walk - and says visitors are particularly welcome. More information about the church can be found by telephoning York 345155.

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