Andrea and Jason would like to reach 100 communities within the next 2 years which are along the Amazon River and its tributaries, within reach of where they live. Their ministry along the river consists of preparation the day before a trip; getting a crew together. The morning of the trip 3 to 6 people meet at 7 o’clock for breakfast, meditation, briefing and get the boat ready to leave. They venture along the river and stop when they find a jetty, they split into pairs taking each side of the houses. Outside a house they clap to make people in the house aware that they are there. The welcome is usually good and after explaining who they are they read the Bible and pray, they find that they are able to be very clear about peoples’ spiritual condition and generally are also able to explain the gospel very clearly. One lady listened attentively to the message and she was clearly convicted. The Radio work consists of two programmes: Saturday, which is an evangelistic programme when Andrea reads a children’s story, music is played and Jason does a slot for the family. Sunday, Jason presents the programme with Newton, a local Christian, the theme being ‘Heroes of the Faith’ with interviews, talks from pastors and others, also preaching through Hebrews 11, it is a discipling programme. They are aware of a regular audience.
The work has been encouraging and discouraging at the same time but the Lord has blessed. 11 years ago there were about 6 members, now there are 23 for a town of 18 to 20,000 people. Generally the reception to spiritual things is good. There is one of the biggest Buddhist centres in Ulverston. Recently three people have come to know the Lord: Nathan, Steve’s son; Jacky who works with Pearl and this February a daughter of one of the elders and all three have been baptised. Pray for several people who attend regularly and who are seeking.
Many thanks to all who came and also to all who helped in any way. News of the Open Day can be seen and read on the Website www.gbm.org.uk .
The highlight of this last year has been to see a Chinese student baptised. His parents in China rejected his faith when he was converted so it has been difficult for him. Some of the Christian students have grown in the Lord which has been good to see. To be able to share the gospel with French students on the campus is a joy. What has been difficult has been the lack of French students wanting to continue on and to study the Bible. There have not been any conversions amongst French students. The Lord gave Fiona a promise ‘I have many people in the city and not to be afraid but to speak’ which is encouraging for her. Please pray that in the coming year a group of students will come together to commit to the work of outreach and also a co-worker to work alongside Fiona.
Nathan Javed’s wife, Urfa has obtained a visa and is now in the U.K. Pray that this visa of 2 years will be made permanent. Pray too that they will have sufficient support to continue this work. There is still room at Youth Camp (speaker Phil Arthur) and also at the Athelington Hall camp (speaker Sukesh Pabari). Details are on the website or call the office for information. Please pray for the Andersons, Matt Gamston and Fiona Steward on deputation. Details are on the website or from the office. The Wilcox family have now returned to the U.K.