Report Synod Spring 2008

Church Life & Mission

When we read the New Testament we find it is all about people and churches listening and learning how to follow and deepen their faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. It tells of their adventures, their successes, yes and their disappointment and failures. The passages show us an exciting, thrilling journey of faith.

Is your journey of faith full of adventure and new experiences? Are you thrilled and excited as you journey with Jesus?
If yes, why not share your experiences with the rest of us, so we too can be encouraged and strengthened. Help us to read an up to date Book of Acts.

If your journey of faith is not so wonderful, you may feel some of the joy has gone. Remember the promises given to us, so rich in their grace and mercy. If you feel nothing is happening and you are just plodding on, the Church Life & Mission Team has some exciting news for you.
In our District there are wonderful things happening.
People from our churches are going to other lands to help and support people
Churches are becoming involved in Just 10 and Hope 08, taking the opportunity to reflect the love and passion of God in the communities surrounding their churches.
A Sunderland youth project involving more than 30 boys aged 11 to 18 are meeting week by week. Street disorder has been reduced considerably and the church is looking to see if more opportunities can be developed.
New and exciting ways of worship are helping people in our modern world to find God.
Cell and Covenant Groups are sharing their journey of faith together, building each other up and reaching out to others.
Members are attending courses on how to ‘Talk of God’ and how to see and grasp opportunities to share the Good News
Churches and Circuits are praying together. The Journey into Prayer course offered in one Circuit was found to be very helpful by those attending and they felt strengthened in prayer and faith.
The Music Society continues to encourage the use of music in different forms in our churches. The offer to share in our church services has been much appreciated by those churches taking up the offer.
How thrilled we were to hear Pastor Lopez talk about the power of the Holy Spirit in Cuba, a church that is growing from a few hundred to thousands. His own church has grown from 19 to 63. It was like reading the New Testament. People are sharing their faith with others and being faithful to their calling in Jesus.
It was so thrilling to hear from those that visited Shetland. What a wonderful fellowship they experienced.
Training is available for anyone taking on responsibilities within the church.

There is so much more to tell, so much joy to share. Please read the reports from the Teams of the Church Life & Mission
Some of our church family feel they can offer very little but God honours the prayers of his people. We need to hold each other up in prayer

“The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results”
James ch5 v16 (Touch Point Bible.)

The Church Life & Mission Team would love to hear from you. Success or disappointment, whether you are large or small, there are people willing to support and help you.

Eric Skipsey