This year was definitely a new congress experience. Due to all the virus restrictions we were not able to travel to Nigeria. In taking the whole situation into account, it was decided that the congress would take place over five days. The first four days were virtual, pre-recorded videos. We submitted ministry sessions for the first four days. The fifth and final day was live with the meeting being held in the new 9km2 arena. The production for the first four virtual days was very good. We applaud the media team who worked together tirelessly to collate the different videos coming in from all over the world ending up with a high quality production.

Christmas Outreach

From Wednesday 16th until Saturday 19th December we ministered physically at three different venues in and around Minehead, Somerset.

The first Christmas ministry took place at Minehead Baptist Church. Thanks once again to and for Clarissa Saywell who was behind the arranging and organising our participation at these events.

Our first outreach meeting took place in Exford, Clarissa’s village. Together with Exford Tea rooms we were able to put on a Christmas event for the local community.

On the day of the meeting, the rain was supposed to be so heavy that there was a flood alert for the area. In the pouring rain Daniel, Zach and Kristof with some help from Kate created a tarpaulin roof over a stage made of pallets. All this in the small yard at the back of the tea rooms next to the village green, where the event was to be held. Bruce, one of the owners of the tea rooms, was also generous with all his help and assistance.

By the time we were due to start at 6pm, the rain had more or less died away and people from the village came out to support. We had a great time singing Christmas carols together and ministering to everyone present. At the end, Daniel gave a very clear and uncompromising altar call inviting those present to accept Jesus. When all was done and we were packing up, one lady stayed behind and as Charlene talked and prayed with her, she gave her life to Jesus. Praise God!

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The second outreach event took place on Saturday 19th December outside of the old hospital in Minehead city centre. The event was organised by a community organisation. We were told that around Christmas time they would shut the high street for about two days with a Christmas market, fair rides for children and other entertainment. Due to all the restrictions this year’s event was considerably smaller and only lasted for a few hours.

When we started to sing, people stopped to listen and were handed song sheets so that they could sing along with us. There was an amazing atmosphere and one the organisers told us that he had tears in his eyes as we sang ‘O Holy Night’ his favourite Christmas song. Again, Daniel gave a very clear altar call and prayed a prayer of salvation for people to follow and repeat.  

All in all the ministry was very well received. We thank God for the opportunity to have been involved in the outreaches, sharing the Gospel on the streets. Now, more than ever people need to be told of the hope that we have in Jesus. What a privilege to be able to share the love of God with those who don’t yet know Him.