About Lightwave Emerge Hub

Lightwave Emerge Hub is part of the broader Lightwave Christian community, serving rural Suffolk, and is part of the Church of England.

We follow Jesus and serve communities & schools across the Fynn Valley, in partnership with other established churches. Discover how the benefice of Carlford and the benefice of Kesgrave with Little Bealings and Playford are reaching out with God’s love.

We are a family of people who are learning to follow Jesus together - no matter where we come from or what our background is. 
We’re a church for those who may not normally “do church,” creating a space where everyone belongs, grows in faith, and engages in meaningful community.  We aim to create a church that is inclusive, intergenerational, and relaxed - a place where everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, can grow in their faith and contribute to building a strong community.

Our story

Emerge began in 2021 when two families came together to reimagine what church could look like after the pandemic. We wanted to create a space where everyone—children, teens, and adults alike—were engaged and valued. In this family-focused environment, children's contributions are just as precious as adults.

We started meeting in homes rather than a church building, which allowed us to gather in an informal and welcoming setting. Our time together is filled with drinks, snacks, open conversation, songs, Bible chat, activities, and prayer for all ages. While connecting with one another, we also want to connect with God.

Our values

We believe church is not just a building - it’s about living out Jesus' values in everyday life. We aim to be a community where everyone can belong, whether they’re familiar with church or not, and where real, meaningful relationships are built.

  • Welcoming

    We believe in making everyone feel loved and accepted, no matter their background

  • Simplicity

    We value simplicity in worship and relationships.

  • Kindness

    We strive to reflect Jesus' kindness in everything we do.

  • Creativity

    We value creative expressions of faith, from Bible journaling to community events.

  • Community

    We are a community that values intergenerational relationships, where everyone has a role to play.

ABC Values

  • All Involved

  • Becoming Disciples

  • Creating Community

  • Doing Evangelism

  • Encountering God

Our team

Whether you’re looking for an Emerge Sunday, a small group, or a way to serve the community, there’s a place for you at Lightwave. Explore how you can get involved below:

  • Ben Wale

    Emerge Hub Leader

    Ben enjoys growing veg, cycling, walks, camping and learning to play different drums. He’s trying the bodhran now! Ben was previously a primary school teacher, then a Children's and Families' Worker for a local Baptist Church.  Ben and Leanne have two children, plus 3 guinea pigs and a gecko.

  • Kat McDonald

    Treasurer

    Kat enjoys being outdoors - be it at the seaside, in the forests or up in the mountains. Her favourite country is Italy, mainly due to its culture and the food! Kat works for a NHS Hospital Charity as a bid writer, and prior to this she worked for a fundraising consultancy for nearly 15 years. Kat is married to James and they have a daughter.

  • Anna Ducker

    Safeguarding

    Anna enjoys music making, having a dance, spending time with friends and family, getting out for a country walk, and drinking tea with a book in the sunshine. She’s a classroom music teacher at a local secondary school. She is also a wife to John and a mum to two lovely (lively) kids.

Safeguarding

At Lightwave Emerge Hub, we take safeguarding seriously. The safety and well-being of everyone, especially children and vulnerable adults, is our priority. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where all can feel valued and protected.

Our leaders and volunteers are trained in safeguarding, following the policies set out by the Lightwave Christian community.

For more information, please refer to our Safeguarding Policy.