Paul Manwaring trained as a psychiatric nurse, taking care of the sick. This was a vocation that he later pursued in ministry, within the church, as well as in prisons with young people. Reaching the forgotten and restoring relationships is the commitment of this proud father of two boys and grandfather of 2 grandsons, who has been dedicated to serving others through the various stages of his life. Now back in the UK, after being with Bethel Church in California for 15 years, Paul desires to see a revival in Europe. To this end he is involved with Awakening Europe alongside Ben Fitzgerald’s team. Paul agreed to answer questions for an interview originally published (in French) on Info Chrétienne. We are grateful to him; for his time, for sharing so honestly about a difficult time in his life, as well as for his heart for Europe.
Can you tell us about when you first met Jesus?
It was on February 28th 1973, the day my father died. He was a Christian and died of cancer. In my uncle’s prayer he spoke about ‘one chapter of the book closing’, and I said to God, ‘write the next chapter with me in it’. I’ve never looked back from that day and live to honor my father’s memory.
What triggered and marked the beginning of your ministry?
In 2001 I went to Bethel Church Redding so that my wife could receive her healing. A 1-year BSSM (Bethel School Supernatural Ministry) experience became 15 wonderful years on the senior leadership team. In 2012 I was given a prophetic word about evangelism and that triggered my current journey back to living in Europe and being involved in Awakening Europe.
We all know that life is full of ups and downs. Would you mind sharing one of your trials with us, and how you overcame it by God’s grace?
In 2008 I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I wrote a book about my journey: Kisses from a Good God. It was God’s grace and guidance that took me through, and made me aware that He is good and that He uses surgeons to heal.
What project or achievement are you most proud of?
I built Bethels network called Global Legacy, but I am also proud of the regime that I developed at a juvenile prison from 1997 – 2001.
What is the greatest lesson you have learnt through your ministry?
There are many but my number 1 is: He wastes nothing and He gets you ready.
And if you had to do it again, what would you do differently?
Not much comes to mind. I’ve tried to be obedient and He is faithful. Maybe I would deal with fear of man earlier and be bolder.
Who is the person / people who have played a major role in your ministry?
Bill Johnson, Kris Vallotton, Leif Hetland, Stu and Chloe Glasbarrow, My wife…
Do you have people who are examples, or mentors, who push you to grow and improve?
Yes. All of the above. There have also been people outside of career ministry, as well as my Jewish boss working in prison, who have taught me more than I can say. Over the years, books by Bethel authors Clive Calver, RT Kendal, Mike Bickle and Brenna Manning have had a huge influence.
Which Biblical character inspires you most and why?
Moses. The great leader of transition is my number one, apart from Jesus of course!
What advice would you give to those who want to follow the same path as you?
Be obedient to what He has put in front of you to do. Make sure that you are a healthy son or daughter first.
How do you see your ministry in the coming years? What projects are important to you?
Europe is the most important to me. Three areas: 1. Represent Bethel well in Europe, 2. Serve on the ESBS.org (Europe Shall Be Saved) strategy team, and 3. Teach and train people to lead in life which is my next biggest personal project. I want to see a ‘united bride’ which is fully empowered.
The news is often sad and disturbing: Christians are being persecuted, society is falling apart, there are natural disasters, and major ethical changes… What stand have you taken in the face of all these events? Are you too busy to get involved? Are you an attentive watchman? Or are you sounding the trumpet?
My wife and I choose a lens of hope and declaration. We moved to the USA 4 days after 9/11 and returned to live in the UK just after the Brexit vote. We see big fruit and a small enemy wherever we go.
