History

In 2004, two members of different local fellowships discovered that God had given both of them a passion to reach the nations in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire.  The first had been teaching English at the local college since 1999 and had worked mainly with people seeking asylum since that time.  God had then given her the idea to establish Bible and English classes in Huddersfield.  The second had had years of experience supporting people from different nationalities who had been attending the church where her husband is the pastor.  She had a great excitement about the opportunity to show God's love to people who had come to the UK.

In January 2005, these two local believers organised a training workshop, which was attended by around 30 people from five different fellowships in Huddersfield.  Local Christians were equipped with knowledge and ideas as to how to support people in the asylum process.  People were also able to share their own experiences and many gave insight into the projects that they were involved in.  At this event, the vision to reach the nations through Bible and English classes was introduced.

In March 2005, a team of four began what is now known as OpenWORD.  Meeting one afternoon a week, the small group of students were introduced to the Gospel whilst being given the opportunity to learn English at the same time.  The group grew in number as students brought their friends.  The class quickly moved to the newly opened Six One One Centre, which was to be Elim Church's outreach centre in Huddersfield for the next six years.  A summer school followed in July 2005, which was attended by yet more students from a variety of backgrounds.  In October 2005, OpenWORD increased its provision to four afternoon classes and one morning class each week.  In the summer of 2011, OpenWORD, along with other local minstries, relocated from the Six One One Centre to Oasis Youth and Community Centre in Huddersfield.

Over the past six years, OpenWORD has run a several summer schools, which have been well attended.  In normal term time, OpenWORD now offers three afternoon classes plus a weekly Bible and English group for mothers and their young children.  OpenWORD's lesson materials are also being used in Bible and English classes elsewhere in the UK, as well as being used by groups overseas.

After OpenWORD had been up and running for some months, OpenDOOR was established by a key OpenWORD team member.  This weekly social drop-in attracted students from the Bible and English classes plus others.  This group has seen immense growth.  Around 50-60 people enjoy the opportunity to play games, have a bite to eat, chat with local believers and receive practical help and prayer.

OpenWORD has always been an inter-church project.  It is currently supported by a team of faithful volunteers from different denominations.  These volunteers are involved in the teaching and the learning support of the students, and they often make themselves available for help that the students need out of class time.