July 2009 Report

“GO WEST, (YOUNG) MAN!”

Having struggled to go East to Pakistan, Jos (Nigeria) and Tanzania, we thought that for July we should go West.

We have an ongoing invitation to the States but dates are proving difficult to confirm, so we went a little less far West… to Northern Ireland and then, for two trips, to the West of England.

The visit to Northern Ireland was to speak at a national church conference for the Barnabas Fellowship of Churches, with which we have a strong relationship. The conference was held at the Renewal Centre in Rostrevor; an amazing place with an amazing ministry. It also has amazing views… across Carlingford Lough to Southern Ireland.

It is two years since I was last in Northern Ireland and it is a joy to sense the political and social progress. The peace process has had its hiccups but prayer is certainly prevailing.

The Renewal Centre, Rostrevor

View across Carlingford Lough

A few days after returning from Ireland we were in Exeter for a prayer and worship conference; an event that made an impact on both Trevor and me.

On the way back from Exeter we were able to join the leaders of the South Chard church for a barbecue. That was a great delight. We love what is happening through the fresh stirrings God is bringing to a church which in the past has been a focus for a real move of the Spirit that touched people internationally.

The Lord is definitely into re-opening wells.

South Chard Church

With just a three day break, including a Sunday preaching in South London, we were back in the West Country again. This time we were with the Barnabas’ Churches from all around the UK. Their week-long camp is always a tremendous blessing and we regretted that we were not able to stay for more than a few days. It was a privilege to preach on the Tuesday evening and there was a great response for personal ministry.

In between these Bible teaching and leadership trips we have been constantly trying to stay on top of all the work that stems from our two other areas of ministry: consultancy and leading the Churches in Communities International network.

With these three major areas of ministry making demands on our time, our office work (whenever we are back in Bromley) can take way, way beyond normal office hours.

It is great for Trevor and me to have the help of Dan our resources manager who runs the website, masters CDs and DVDs and produces our radio and TV broadcasts. Alongside him we have Kwame who handles our conference resources and orders.

Your support makes a real difference to us all. Thank you for your prayers and generosity.