Elam 29th Anniversary

If there is any name that is likely to get confused with Elim it is Elam. The latter however is a ministry into Iran and Chris Jones our International Missions Director and myself were present for its 20th Anniversary held at its UK base in the south of England.

It was a moving occasion on many levels. One young leader was unable to be present as he was martyred as a Christian just a few weeks earlier. One of the Elam leaders introduced me to a young lady in her Thirties and asked her to tell me her story.

She had been a Muslim at the point of being married but a few years later was converted to Christianity. The Muslim authorities said that she must choose between Christ and her two year old daughter who she would never see again unless she reconverted to Islam. She was unwilling to denounce Christ and her daughter is now ten and she has not seen her for the past eight years. There are multiplied thousands of untold stories like this within the persecuted Church around the world. They are of course recorded in heaven and stand as a constant challenge to our commitment.

Elim Festival

Elim Festival is the new name for what used to be called the 'Fraisthorpe Camp', After decades of being on the East Yorkshire Coast it has now moved inland to a new venue which, though not having the beach as feature, does possess many improved amenities

One of the reasons I had been asked to the be the opening speaker of the two-week camp was because I had attended the first ever Fraisthorpe when I was fourteen years of age.

There are several Elim camps of this nature now across the country catering for several thousand people who come for holidays and spiritual input. Without doubt the heroes and heroines are those who work tirelessly behind the scenes as volunteers. Many of these amazing people give up their own holiday in order to serve other people. Their value and importance is incalculable.

New NLT team

When I record my appointments on this page they refer primarily to speaking engagements. Committees, interviews and other areas of my role are rarely included.

I am making an exception on this occasion by highlighting a recent meeting of the National Leadership Team. The NLT, as it is usually known, governs the Movement between Conferences. It comprises of Regional Leaders (who each have responsibility for around 100 churches in the UK) and ministers of some of our largest churches. Every four years I am required by Conference to nominate ministers who are then ratified by a vote at our annual Bible Week.

Deciding who to nominate on this occasion was a very difficult decision as there are so many leaders within our Movement who have the calibre to be considered suitable as a member.

The NLT meet at our International centre in Malvern for three days five times a year. My reason for including the above picture is that it was taken at the first meeting of the team who were elected at Conference earlier this year and who were highlighted in the August edition of Direction.

Retiring from the team were Mike Sherwood (ten years). Barry Killick (ten years), Geoff Feasey (18 years) and Eric McComb (25 years) each once of whom have brought to the NLT their own distinctive contribution which, in every case has been a valuable asset to our Movement.

Any change in a team brings with it a new dynamic. The first meeting of the new NLT was one of the best I can ever remember and there was an immediate sense of 'oneness' and unity that augurs very well for the days that lie ahead. It is a delight to work alongside leaders such as these.

MiT Conference

The three-day Conference for Ministers in Training was held for the first time in Elim's new International Centre in Malvern. Around eighty men and women gathered at this ideal venue on the top of the Malvern Hills in what turned out to be a period of glorious summer sunshine.

The speakers included Carl Beech, Chris Cartwright, Jemma Chesman, Paul and Mags Hallam, Phil Hills, Jonny Lee, Caleb Nyanni, Mark Ryan, Nigel Tween and myself.

The seminar format consists of an hours teaching followed by an hours interaction with the speaker. I apprecaited all those who contributed to the success of our time together including Simo Festadius who led the worship, Graham Tedds who operated the sound and media together with my P.A. Sharon Millar who handled the administration.

HICC

Harrow International Christian Centre has a prime four storey location in the centre of the town and is pastored by Michael and Pat Carr. Michael, was formerly an associate minister at Kensignton Temple and Regional leader within Elim. The church and gallery were packed for the Sunday service which attracts a congregation comprised of forty nations.

United Christian Broadcasters

UCB are at the cutting edge of Christian Broadcasting and in the UK and, in my view, are one of the most significant and effective organisations in our country.

It was my privilege to take part in a Celebration and Dedication service to commemorate the answer to a 23 year prayer - the granting of a national broadcasting license - now in DAB

People travelled from as far as New Zealand and the USA and the speaker at the event was Bob Gas, author of 'Word for Today'. Chris Bowater led the worship.

Barnet

The Barnet church commenced with a Nurses Christian fellowship that was encouraged to commence a congregation by Wynne Lewis who was then the senior pastor of Kensington Temple. Subsequent significant input was given by Colin Dye the current senior pastor of KT.

The church has been led during that period by Diane Druce and Doreen Skelton - two amazing women. It was my privilege to speak at the 25th Anniversary weekend.

There are a number of reasons why I appreciate the leaders and congregation at Barnet. One of them is that they cover me in prayer as I travel around the country. At the beginning of every year I provide them with my diary and, over the past ten years, several of the congregation have committed to pray daily for Marilyn and myself.

Wembley Christian Centre

Eighteen years ago a small group of women planted a church in the heart of Wembley. At the forefront of that initiative was Sokemun Ho and Vanessa Richardson. From that day Sokemun, for several years an ordained Elim minister, has pastored the church.

Twelve months ago the congregation purchased a third of an acre of land that included a building, now used as a church, and a detached house. Subsequent to the commitment of a wonderful congregation the complex has been renovated and it was my privilege to speak at the dedication of the land. Local Elim ministers were present as was the mayor and the newly elected MP for the area.

Far from being complacent at the completion of this dream, an artists impression of the future development of the site was displayed during the service. This is a great achievement by one of our Movement's finest women pastors who, apart from giving leadership to the church, also heads a local dental practice.

Connect Centre - Wells

When I was originally booked to be in Wells it was for the official opening of the exciting Connect Centre, otherwise known as the 'white building' in the heart of the city. Due to building delays this has had to be postponed for a few months but I spoke at this innovative church on the Sunday morning anyway

The church is led by Stephen and Jill Fowler (pictured) and they are assisted by their son and daughter-in-law, Thomas and Sue.

Direction magazine will be featuring Connect once the project is well underway but, suffice to say, the vision is to act as a catalyst to a multiplicity of community projects in this area of Somerset. It is a hub of community action and care and a model of what effective and compassionate Christianity is all about.

Coatbridge, Scotland

My time in Coatbridge commenced with an evening celebration attended by Elim churches in the area and was followed by speaking at the Sunday morning service. The music at both meetings was a provided by Chris Mercer who has achieved a great deal of recognition on both sides of the Atlantic as a Gospel recording artist.

The development of the Coatbridge church is an evidence of the faithful and dedicated work of David and Linda Bell and their family who re-pioneered the church some years ago. It is always good to be both with them and with the church.

Switzerland

There could hardly be a more picturesque location for a church than Ambilly, Switzerland nestled under the shadow of Mont Blanc.

Michel and Balbina Rimbert, after a successful career in banking, planted the church and built a remarkable 2000 seater facility built to the very highest specification.

Though the current congregation has a long way to go to make the fullest use of the centre, it stands as a testimony to faith and vision.

On the Saturday morning I spoke to a men's meeting and in the evening to a main church celebration. The Sunday morning was a very special event and one in which Michel Rimbert, who will retire from senior leadership in a year's time, announced that the churches' new pastor would be Christophe Saez (pictured here with his wife Sabina and their family). The news was greeted with much applause - partly in recognition of the work that Michel and Balbina had done and partly in enthusiasm for the excellent choice that had been made for succession.

I got to know the Saez family very well during my time there and I am very optimistic for the future of the church in the years that lie ahead.

Elim Midlands Region

There was a capacity turnout for the meeting of the Elim Leaders in the Midlands Region and it is always a joy to be with them. The venue was the Nettle Hill Conference Centre near Coventry and was lead by Gordon Neale who is the Regional Leader.

AoG Conference

I very much enjoyed being part of the Assemblies of God Conference held in Huddersfield and considered it a privilege to be invited to address 900 of their pastors and leaders.

The venue was the new £13 million pound home of Huddersfield Christian Fellowship - an independent Pentecostal church which has one of the best church facilities in the country.

The mood of the Conference was one of faith and expectancy as they welcomed their new General Superintendent, John Partington. He will be a speaker at the 2010 Elim Conference. We pray God's richest blessing on our sister Fellowship with whom we have enjoyed such close relationship over very many years.

Clydebank 50th Anniversary

It was a pleasure to participate in the 50th Anniversary celebrations of the Elim Church in Clydebank. The church was pioneered by one of Elim's premier and highly respected evangelists Rev. Alex Tee. His health did not allow him to be present but on the Saturday evening meal held in a local golf club he brought an inspiring greeting via DVD.

The church is currently pastored by Gordon and Heather Allan (pictured here centre and right) together which Becky Haldane who is the associate minister.

I knew the Clydebank church well due to the fact that I was once the Regional Leader for Scotland for a nine year period, so it was a special delight to witness on the Sunday morning how it had grown numerically since the last time I had been there. There were people present in the congregation who were there 50 years ago when it started and several that I met that had joined the church in the past twelve months.

Blackpool (Clifton)

Sandy and Patricia Kirkwood (pictured) have had a wide and varied ministry and a little over a year ago took over the pastorate at Clifton - one of the three Elim Churches in the Blackpool area.

The excellent facilities are kept in immaculate condition but 'church' is not about buildings its about people. While I was there I met five ladies who had been at the church since its earliest days. They told me they had a combined age of 414 years and that two of them have been missionary secretaries for a massive 43 years! While thanking God for the growth in our Movement among young and middle-aged people, my visit to Clifton gave me reason again to thank God for the stalwarts in our churches who have served God over very many years. We appreciate them so very much.

Worcester

Ian and Liz Nicholson, pictured here with their son David and daughter Rachel, have pastored Worcester Elim church for eleven years. It was five years since I had last spoken at the church and it was clear that there are been developments in several dimensions of the churches life since that time. Ian has a strong pastoral gift and Marilyn and I enjoyed our time with the family during the day. Rachel and David are both in the worship team and play their own part in the life of the church.

Five minutes old

If you were to ask me to chose between preaching to five thousand people or leading one person to Christ - there is no contest.

After the close of one of my meetings in France I chatted, through my interpreter, to some of those who had attended. Among them was Pierre. When I asked him if he was a Christian he said that he was not but that he was only a few steps away. Enquiring what it would take for him to make a commitment he told me that he was partly Jewish. I had the pleasure of telling him that the Gospel was, "To the Jew first and then to the Gentile" and that he was not rejecting his roots by coming to Christ but completing the purpose that God had for him. We talked further and prayed together. This photo with my new French friend shows him five minutes after his New Birth,

Gaston Claudel

Gaston Claudel is a remarkable man by any standards. He was one of the 300,000 children around Europe snatched by the Nazis to create their master race simply because, at the age of three, he had blond hair and blue eyes. He tells his story in the "Les enfants sur la lune" (The children under the moon).

He entered Elim Bible College in 1964 and after one of our Easter meetings in the Royal Albert Hall noticed a man in a London street injecting drugs. "Immediately", he says, "I knew what my life mission would be". Returning to France he has spent the past 45 years in that ministry and has received about every award that from the Government and civil bodies that a civilian can get. Now 74 and still in ministry he was proud to show me his Elim credentials that he carries with him at all times. His amazing story will be the subject of a future Direction feature.

Elim France

Each time I visit the church in Thonon, France I see growth numerically and in depth. Luc Favre has also transformed the building and is pictured here in the cafe entrance to the church which is a hub for the people before and after the services.

After a weekend with the Thonon church I spoke at the Conference for Elim pastors throughout France. Though only a small group at the moment the President David Thabot is encouraged by the number of leaders from independent groups who have shown an interest in linking with Elim in this spiritually needy nation.

Driffield

Mark and Cheryl Witherden (pictured) have been in Driffield for two years. This church, like several others in our Movement, has long outgrown the original building and worships in a school which retaining the original facility for youth and childrens work. This was my first visit to the congregation. It was an enjoyable day at this long-established Elim Church in the heart of Yorkshire.

Emerging leaders

This group of Elim ministers that met for a three day conference at our International Centre in Malvern were participating in an ongoing leadership program led by Nigel Tween and Chris Cartwright. These seminars are not for those who are emerging 'into' leadership but for those who are emerging into a new dimension of leadership and are seeking to enhance the skills and abilities that they already possess. It was great to engage in the interaction that followed the two sessions that I had been invited to take.

Newquay Christian Centre

The first time I visited Elim in Newquay was over twenty years ago. In those days the congregation numbered around 35 people. I have spoken at Newquay Christian Centre many times since and especially during the years that Mike and Shelagh Robins (pictured) have been there. It seems that on every occasion new facilities have been purchased, people added to the team or another threshold has been reached.

I left home at 4:30am in the morning for the first of the two Sunday morning services that now accommodate this constantly growing church. Arriving at 7:45am I was met by the musicians who were waiting for the church to open so that they could set up prior to the first service at 9 a.m. - that's commitment!

The complex already consists of a sanctuary, youth centre, administration block, restaurant and purpose-built residential accommodation. At the close of the second service Mike took me to view a 700 seater facility adjacent to their current complex the front of which faces into the main street of the town and is one of the most high profile buildings in Newquay. They had completed on the sale only a few days earlier. Mike and Shelagh, and the team around them, continue to make a major impact in the town and surrounding area.

Romania

My admiration for Bob and Edith McDonald knows no bounds!

Having pastored in Elim the UK for forty years, and approaching the age of retirement, many would assume that it was now time for them to slow down.

Through remarkable events that will be featured in Direction magazine at a later date, they decided instead to sell up home to live in one of the most economic-disadvantaged areas of Romania.

However, when around thirty-five children and young people began meeting in their home it was clear that their vision need to be enlarged.

The reason for my visit was to officially open a purpose-built youth centre on two floors. This excellent building is the only centre for young people for several miles around. It was a delight for Bob and Edith to witness during the two dedication services on the day, over 300 parents and children in attendance. Several teams from Elim churches in the UK have gone out to work short-term with the McDonald's and at the opening ceremony there was was representation from the Elim churches in Bradford and Dundee as well as Pastor Robin Baker from Redditch.

Pentecostal churches are spreading rapidly across Romania and already number around two thousand. In the nearby city of Cluj there are several Pentecostal churches with over a thousand in attendance. Before leaving I was asked to address a meeting at one of the largest centres which comprised of senior Pentecostal leaders in the area.

The sacrificial love and commitment that Bob and Edith have shown to some of the poorest people in the country is mirrored in the hearts and lives of the young people who have come to see them as spiritual parents. Remember them, and those they serve, in your prayers.

Chaplains Conference

Elim Chaplains gathered at Elim's International Centre for their second annual conference in Malvern. The venue was hosted by Nigel Tween, Director of Training. The chaplains work in a wide variety of ministry ranging from hospitals, prisons, the fire service, the police service, airports and the armed forces. It was delight to speak at the opening session.

Formby Elim Church

Malcolm and Denise Dyer (pictured) came to Formby after a fruitful period in Malcolm's ministry as a senior lecturer at Regents Theological College. Feeling a call to pastoral ministry he accepted the pastorate of the church located in the Liverpool/Southport area.

Some weeks prior to my visit the church had entered a process of re-visioning and, by the time I arrived, it was clear that there was a very clear dynamic of faith and expectancy that permeated the whole congregation.

It was an absolute joy to spend time at Formby and to meet a group of people who were evidently looking forward to everything that God has in store for them in the future.

Onehope Conference - Miami, Florida

One of the most amazing and successful missions organisations in the world is also, remarkably, one of the least known. Onehope publish the "The Book of Hope" which is an evangelistic tool that has a version for children and for teenagers. It puts the gospel in clear graphical form and has recently distributed its six hundredth million copy: making it the biggest publication after the Bible itself. Many thousands of people have been reached for Christ through this ministry which now has a digital animation DVD called The God-man - produced by Hanna Barbara - probably the best know cartoon creators in the world. . Another amazing statistic is that everything is made available free of charge to the local church at the point of contact. I was invited to Miami for their annual conference. It was a powerful missions opportunity.

True Vine -Luton

A few months ago I spoke at the opening of our church in Dunstable that had taken over the main night-club to create a 1000 seater worship facility.

On this occasion I was just a few miles down the road at one of Elim's three churches in Luton which had just taken over one of the main casinos in the area.

True Vine Fellowship was pioneered several years ago with a very small group of people. Under the leadership of senior pastor Vicky Gee (pictured here with her son Michael who is also on the team as an Elim minister) it has grown to the point that it was able to take over and refurbish this new complex. The church, which is on several floors, features the worship area, committee rooms, restaurant, children/youth areas - all finished to a very high standard.

Several local churches were represented at the opening ceremony which was also attended by the two Members of Parliament for the area. The full story of the development of this church is to be featured in a forthcoming edition of Direction.

Yeovil Elim

Howard Davenport, pictured here with his wife Emma and their children Ava and Boaz, is the senior minister of the Elim Church in Yeovil Somerset.

A packed church was evidence of the growth that this church has seen during the period in which he has been the pastor. He has built a strong leadership team around him and invested heavily in children and youth ministry - a reflection of his involvement with Elim's National youth department Serious4God

The congregation covered a wide age spectrum and the style of worship was such that anyone participating would have felt connected and involved - not an easy balance to achieve but managed well in this warm and welcoming church.

Elim - North East Region

The Insight Conference is held annually and attended by ministers and spouses from Elim churches in the north-east of England and was chaired by Gordon Neale who is Regional leader for the area. The venue was a country house hotel on the Scarborough coast and the event was ably organised by the minister of the Scarborough Elimchurch - Graeme Parkins.

I spoke on six occasions during the three-day conference and enjoyed, as always, the times of interaction with my fellow leaders and between the sessions and during the evenings. This region has excellent leaders across a wide spectrum of age and experience. It was great for Marilyn and I to be with Gordon and Kay and all our colleagues in the area.

Weston Super Mare

Its always a pleasure to minister at Holy Trinity in Weston not least because it is led by my good friend Claude Ellerington and his two sons Richard and Steve. Elim in Weston is a warm, creative an innovative church and, apart from preaching on Sunday morning there was a slot in the service where Richard interviewed his father and myself - drawing on stories from when we met at Bible College in 1968 to some contemporary challenges that Church is called to deal with today.

During the service I prayed publicly with Steve and Natasha (pictured) as they prepare to leave the team at Weston and join the ministry team at Elim@Bristol which is led by Simon Foster. They both will be greatly missed at their current church but will also make a very positive contribution to the progress of the church in Bristol.

Kensignton Temple Vision Conference

Pastor Colin Dye,senior minister of Kensington Temple and apostolic leader of the 'London City Church' network pastors Elm's largest congregation in the UK. One however cannot measure the church only with a numerical benchmark - though it is several thousand strong - as the church under his leadership has grown commensurately in depth through its comprehensive discipleship structure. Every year KT holds a vision conference, and I was delighted to accept the invitation to speak at the celebration servive at the conclusion of the conference. Colin Dye is not only a colleague, in that he serves with me as a senior member of Elim's National Leadership Team, but aalso a close personal friend. My visit to KT was another opportunity for me to witness first hand what is being accomplished in this significant spiritual centre in the capital of our country and to enjoy ministering to the tremendous people who are part of the KT network.

Armed Forces Chaplaincy Conference

During the past ten years that I have occupied the role of General Superintendent I have had the opportunity in minister in a wide variety of contexts in this country and around the the world. It was however the first time I had been asked to speak to the United Board Conference of Chaplains who serve the Army, Navy and Royal Air force. Many will know the courageous work they they do - exposed to the most dangers theatres of world conflict such as Afghanistan and Iraq. Though often in the line of fire they never carry arms themselves but remain continually available to those around them that often face the extreme levels of battlefield stress and trauma and injury. Their conference was held at one of their bases in Hampshire and I had been invited to speak at two of their sessions as well as at the concluding joint communion service.

Smethwick leadership Forum

Pastor Joseph Chinnalyan, senior minister of the Elim Church in Smethwick holds monthly leadership seminars for ministers from a variety of Denominations in the Black Country area of the West Midlands. It was through this initiative that I was able to be with him and the leaders that had gathered to speak on the subject of 'Authority in the Church - its limits and its scope'. By thinking beyond his locality he has consistently provided a resource for other curchs in the area.

Ladbrook Grove, London

The church in Ladbrook Grove is close to the Portobello Road. It is part of Elim's 'London City Church' network which works under the auspices of Kensington temple.

This was my first visit to the congregation that is pastored by Jacqueline Brown (pictured). I was impressed by many things during my time there and not least by the number of people involved in the meeting.

After the service I had the pleasure of meeting a couple more of the core leaders over a meal. Jacqueline is doing a great job in one of the most economically challenged wards of the borough in which they are located.

Sowerby Bridge

Duncan and Beverly Curry (pictured) were appointed to the Sowerby Bridge church in Yorkshire under three years ago.

Though, at the moment, one of the smaller churches within our Movement it has excellent potential for growth. It ws especially good to spend quality time after the morning service with Duncan and Beverly and the Elder of the church, Phil Tate (pictured right) to hear about the various ministries in which the Fellowship is involved and to talk about possible avenues of expansion for the future.

Bethel Christian Fellowship

Bethel Christian Fellowship has been in a great church in Oldbury (West Midlands) for many years. The reason for me being there on this occasion was to welcome it into the fellowship of Elim Churches. The senior minister is Rev. Ken Hipkiss (pictured) who until recently was the chaplain for West Bromwich Albion football club based at the Hawthorns. The speaker at this event was Gordon Neale the Regional leader for Elim the area.

Swansea City Temple

Hundreds of people packed the church in both the morning and evening services which celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Swansea church. Senior minister Michael Williams gave tribute to those who had contributed to the growth and development of the church over the past eight decades - both ministers and members alike. If it is true that 'a church that honours its past has a fruitful future' then there are great days ahead for Elim in Swansea. A much fuller report of the celebrations will feature in Direction shortly. I was the final speaker after a month of special ministry that has taken place. One of the most moving moments was the tribute paid to an 89 year old member who had given his life to Christ as a nine year-old in the opening meetings held by George Jeffries and who was still serving God today. Joel Pridmore, resident worship leader, led the music ministry powerfully and sensitively. I have preached in Swansea on several occasions over the years and it is a church that has been blessed by a succession of the best of our pastors. I have to say however that I have never seen it in such a strong position as it is today - both numerically and spiritually. Michael and Jill Williams (pictured) are giving phenomenal input into one of our Movement's flagship churches.

Dunstable Community Church

A recent Direction article featured the transition that DCC have taken in moving from their previous venue a former nightclub in the centre of the town. I was present to speak at the opening service on the Saturday afternoon which began a series of meetings over the weekend that was to conclude with Morris Cerullo flying in the the USA especially for the Sunday evening.

Around 450 people were present for the opening service during which a multi-media presentation showed the development of the vision to its present stage. Tribute was given to the leadership of senior pastor Doug Richards and his wife Helena who have led the church for the past 25 years.

Keynsham Bristol

For the past three years I have done a trio of Bible Studies over a three-week period at the Keynsham church. Although on the outskirts of the city it attracts a good congregation and is a church that is well known and respected within the local community. It is always a pleasure to be with the leaders and the congregation on these occasions.

NW Region Retreat

More than eighty people attended the Regional Leadership Retreat led and sponsored by Kevin and Margaret Peat. The venue was the prestigeous Hilton hotel on Blackpool's promenade.

It was a privilege to be the speaker at this fabulous event and times like these always carry with them the added oportunity of spending time betweren the sessions with individual pastors over the two days that Marilyn and I were there.

Rotherham Elim

John and Tracy Murfin have been in Rotherham for nine years which would certainly support that the theory that longer ministries produce greater growth. The church was full for the morning service in which John announced that the church would shortly be extending their curent fascilities. Following the morning service caterers prepared a four course lunch for thirty of the leaders prior to me speaking to the group that spanned the full age range within the church.

Angers (en jay), Loire valley, France

Angers, is one of the largest Pentecostal churches in the Loire valley region of France with a congregation of around five hundred people. It is pastored by my good friend Danial L'Herroux, pictured here with his wife Dina.

I preached eight times in the five days of my time with this amazing church. This included three evangelistic meetings, a youth service, three celebration services and and a meeting with the Assemblies of God pastors in the area.

Daniel L'Herroux has created a remarkable DNA in this thriving and growing congregation and has built a fine team of leaders around him. As he is totally fluent in English he acted as interpreter during the time I was there. I considered these meetings to have been successful on a variety of levels - not least in witnessing those who make first time commitments to Christ.

Irish Leaders

Though much of my ministry is spent speaking at Elim churches a significant proportion is also engaged with speaking to groups of our leaders across the UK. On this occasion the venue was Hillsborough Northern Ireland - a church that has recently undergone a magnificent refurbishment in recent months.

Irish Superintendent, Pastor Eric McComb, who has ministered in that capacity for over thirty years said that the attendance for this meeting was among the largest in several years and it was great to be with the many of our leaders who are doing an amazing job across the country. Being half Irish myself it is always a joy to be with my colleagues in Ulster.

Tramway Christian Fellowship

It was good to be present at the Tramway Christian Fellowship in Edmonton, London. This multi-cultural church is comprised of several ethnic groups and is pastored by Iain and Amy Waddell who, until a few months ago had been ministering in their native country of Scotland - something that must have been a huge cultural leap for them. However, this all goes to show that worship, however it is expressed, does not find acceptance to God because of style or cultural context. It is accepted by God because it is offered 'in spirit and truth'.

ICM - London

The occasion of my visit to International Christian Ministries was to celebrate with them their 25th Anniversary held in the City Temple, Holburn Viaduct London. This great church was planted by Pastor Lily Florida, a remarkable lady, and she remains the senior leader who heads the church with congregations across the city and which is primarily attended by those who originate from the Philippines.

Hundreds of people were present to witness the production which, apart from my message, included music, drama, dance and mime. I cannot remember attending a more spectacular and moving act of worship performed via the visual arts in any church I have attended. It was evident that months of preparation had gone into the four hour service.

Tribute was paid to the pastors for the work and growth that taken place over the years but they were quick to acknowledge that what had transpired was the result of the faithfulness of God.

Bootle

Among the leaders who deserve the greatest recognition in our Movement are bi-vocational pastors - those who build churches while engaged in full or part time secular employment.

In this category are Steve and Yvonne Yates (pictured centre). Also very much involved in the church are Andrew (pictured far left and who plays keyboard) Michael (pictured second from left and who handles the technical side of media) and Ian (pictured far right with his wife Kate who leads worship)

I cannot speak too highly of these guys and what they are doing in Bootle - a church in the Liverpool area ministering in a community that has over 50% unemployment. It was an absolute joy to spend Sunday morning with the congregation and the afternoon with Steve and Yvonne. Its leaders like this that makes our Movement what it is

Northampton - Truth Conference

It was a initiative by Elaine Roberts of 'World Mandate Ministries' and proved to be a great success. For several nights one of the main public halls in Northampton was taken to present the truth about themes such as Easter, Christmas and the Second Coming of Christ.

I had been invited to speak on the latter subject on the first night of the series to a ticket-only audience. The venue was well filled with Christians and non- Christians alike. At the close of the meeting five people made first-time decisions to commit their lives to Christ.

Livingstone House

One of the highlights of recent months has to be my visit to Livingstone House in the heart of Birmingham.

Sally Livingstone (pictured here) was a victim of horrific abuse from her earliest years and later became an addict before committing her life to Christ at one of our Elim Churches.

Totally transformed, she discarded the victim mentality and, through a series of miracles which will be the subject of a major article in Direction, set up a centre to help others who have been subject to addictive life-styles.

Sally, and most of the guys in the centre, attend Elim churches in the area but most especially Kings Heath pastored by Colin Dyson who gives spiritual input into Livingston House on a weekly basis as well as being involved in a management capacity.

I cannot speak highly enough of the work that Sally is doing at great personal and sacrificial cost to her and her family. If any organisation is worthy of financial support from our churches, Livingstone House is.

The key people there are of course the men themselves and it was amazing to sit in on their meetings and listen to testimony after testimony of transformed lives told in the context of humility and the vulnerability that comes with honest encounter with struggle. I confess to being proud of these men and everything that they are achieving.

Irish Ordination Service

I had been in Lisburn only a couple of weeks earlier to speak at the opening of their fine new building. On this occasion however it was to speak at the ordination service of four excellent ministers Johnny Brown, John Lindsay, Ross McBride and John Prentice - the latter of which had travelled with his wife Heather all the way from Allahabad, India, where they are ministering.

The meeting was convened by the Irish Superintendent, Eric McComb. After the 'charge' was read out to the ordinands, Marilyn handed out the certificates to the four men as well as to a number of people who had graduated from the Irish Academy.

The church was packed with congregation, friends and family from the respective churches of the ordinands.

Uganda

Photo 1. Shaun Graham, Chris Jones, Paul Hudson
Photo 2. Section of the 3500 crowd at the foot-washing ceremony

I have recently returned from a remarkable time in Uganda.

As, during the time we were there we were to meet the Deputy Prime Minister and other heads of State on other occasions, the Ugandan Government made it a State Occasion - something only afforded to visiting heads of State or members of the Royal family.

At the airport we were met by members of Government, allocated a Secret Service Bodyguard from the Ugandan president's office, and the entireweek never travelled without a convoy of SUVs, TV van and police cars and army personnel present.

It is important to recognise why this was happening. In 1977 Idd Aminbanned the Balokole (Born Again) people, massacred thousands andburned churches. After Amin was deposed Born Again Christians were discriminated against compared to recognised groups such as Roman
Catholics, Anglicans and Muslims. Only under the current President was the 'Born Again Federation' recognised.

As I stepped off the plane I was taken by motorcade to speak at Dr. Joseph SSerwadda's 6000 strong Victory Church. Dr. SSerwadda (who is Elim) has recently been elected as head of Uganda's Born Again Christian Federation which represent 9% of Uganda's population

On day two I and our team (Chris Jones and Paul Hudson) were entertained at the home of the Deputy Prime Minister - His Excellency Bukenya Gilbert. He allocated twice the time originally allocated and requessted I pray with him at the end of our time together.

The next two days were spent at the Hotel Aficana Conference centre when I spoke on three occasions to the 1700 delegates of the Born Again Federation. At the closing service over a
thousand ministers came forward for individual prayer!

At lunch time I and the team were entertained for a banquet at whichthe Minister for Internal Affairs (3rd deputy Prime Minister) and minister of state for Ethics and Integrity attended. Shaun Graham (Elim Tanzania) was also one of the eight guests.

The speech by the minister of state for Integrity and Ethics was outstanding in the Conference that followed. He is a committed Christian.

The highest point was the final day when I was asked to speak at a feet-washing ceremony. It is a monthly service that commences at 4am and attracts over three thousand pesople. During the meeting Dr Serwadda announced that he wanted to wash my feet I said that I would not allow this unless I also washed his. In the event bowls were brought and the two others on the team (Chris and Paul) washed the feet of the two on his team. It was an amazing moment!

The Ugandan Government now has Born Again Christians at the heart of its administration. Dr. Serwadda is one of the most influential voices in the country at this time. He will be attending our Conference this year.

Barking

John and Trish Waller took up the pastorate of the Barking Elim Church around twelve months ago after a successful period of ministry in Dublin in the Republic of Ireland. Under their ministry the church continues to expand and it was a delight to spend the weekend both in their home and in the church.

One of the memorable features of the Sunday morning service was the excellent worship group. Marilyn and I enjoyed being with good friends and being able to witness for ourselves the continued progress of this excellent congregation.

Elim France

The three-day conference for leaders within Elim France was hosted by the newly elected president David Thabot pictured here with his wife Christine.

The Paris venue was the newly constructed Oasis Conference Centre in which their church worships and, though not yet completed, we were able to conduct the meetings in a part of the facility that had been finished in time for the Conference.

Elim do not yet have a large number of churches in France but at the conclusion of the event interest was expressed from a number of leaders from independant Pentecostal churches who expressed a desire to forge closer links with our Movement. Mention should also be made of those from the local congregation who catered and served the delegates so well.

New Springs - Loughborough

I don't know anyone who can put on an event better than Phil Weaver - senior minister of New Springs church in Loughborough!

Celebrating twelve years since the church commenced, the leadership team pictured here (left to right, Euan Lockwood, David Holmes, Phil Weaver, Ryan Atkinson, Nathan Weaver) hosted 240 people for a six course meal at the Hilton hotel. The theme was 'On Safari' and the oil paintings around the room elicited three months work by, exceptionally talented, artist Terry Woods pictured here with me. A number of the guests were incorporated into the animal pictures! Tony's testimony and work is going to be featured in Direction in a following edition.

After the meal the guests were treated to a top cabaret presentation by artists such as X factor finalist Beverley Trotman who is about to release a worship album, award-winning illusionist Chris Stephenson, comedy duo 'Men in coats' who have appeared on the Royal Variety show and whose Youtube sketches have been viewed 20 million times, conjurer Max Somerset who has his own series on Sky TV, world class opera singers Huw and Elizabeth Priday. Elizabeth often appears at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden and is a formal National Opera Company Principal. Huw has performed before many of Europe's Royal families including our own.

Before the event concluded at 1am the pinnacle of the evening took place by a Gospel presentation entitled 'Dream on' and featured music and multimedia from Tracey Parkinson, David Holmes, Ellen Lockwood who are members of New Springs.

Many of those who attended the banquest were not yet committed Christians and a number were present at the meeting on Sunday morning that had a 'back to church' emphasis.

This was the first time I had been to the impressive New Springs facility in the centre of the town and the church was full for the event. Prior to me speaking Huw and Elizabeth Pridday sang and there could not have been a better context into which to share a Gospel message.

Phil and Helen Weaver are passionate about reaching people for Christ and are committed to excellence in every area of church life.

Kings Heath - Birmingham

Fifty years ago Michael Carr, now minister of Harrow International Christian Centre, pioneered a new congregation in Kings Heath. It was my pleasure to attend and speak at the 50th Anniversary weekend at the invitation of Colin Dyson who has pastored the church in recent years and taken it from strength to strength. Also attending the Saturday celebration banquet was a previous General Superintendent and great friend of the church, Tom Walker. Other Elim Pastors from the locality were also present as was the Regional Leader for the area, Gordon Neale. On the Sunday morning, apart from preaching, it was a delight to induct Claire Williams, daughter of Colin and Francis Dyson, into the leadership team of the church.

Livingwaters - Chorley

Livingwaters in Chorley has a double-celebration over a recent weekend. The Saturday evening service was dedicated to honouring Tony and Jennifer Lacy who have pastored the church for the past 28 years and the Sunday saw the induction of their son, John Lacy (pictured here with his wife Michelle and their two sons) as the new senior pastor.

The church was full for the Saturday evening and many tributes were paid to Tony and Jennifer for their tremendous pastoral input as they transitioned a tiny group of people meeting in a home to a thriving congregation in a spacious and modern church complex. I was the speaker on this occasion and Regional Leader, Kevin Peat, added his own tribute before praying with Tony and Jennifer. As the service drew to a close the entire congregation was invited to a 'pig roast' in the church grounds.

On Sunday morning the the church was packed again. Tony and Jennifer have three fine sons each of which, together with their families, are fully involved in the local church. It was their, recently ordained, son John that I inducted into the senior pastorate of the church subsequent to Elim's National Leadership Team unanimously conveying that this stationing appointment was best way forward for this continually growing congregation.

John had attained the position of 'pastoral and curriculum coordinator' at a local school in Chorley by the time he had reached the age of thirty and he was clearly delighted that the headmaster and the entire senior staff of the school had come to the church to witness his induction. All were clearly saddened that he would no longer with them but also acknowledged that there was a clear call upon his life. No one has any doubt that the best days for Livingwaters, Chorley, are yet to come.

Lisburn - Northern Ireland

It was my great pleasure to speak at the opening of the newly constructed Elim Church in Lisburn. The dream began seven years ago and the opening was attended by a packed church together with the local mayor and member of parliament as well as Elim's Irish Superintendent Eric McComb

Great tribute was paid to Pastor Norman Christie and his wife Doreen for their tenacity during the period during which plans were laid and finances raised.

The new facility provides comprehensive accommodation for all age groups and, apart from a greatly increased sanctuary area, includes a youth wing and glass prayer tower

Ledbury

Ledbury is a beautiful and historic town at the foot of the Malvern Hills. Less than a year ago Phill and Sally Thompsett commenced an Elim church in the area. Phil and Sally have a great deal of experience pastorally and are ideally placed to see continued growth in this popular tourist area, They are ably assisted by Steve and Julie Taylor

My visit to Ledbury was to 'cut the tape' on a youth outreach ministry situated adjacent to a skate-board park in the town. This creative and innovative outreach will be led by Steve.

Church of Pentecost

The Church of Pentecost was founded in 1937 in Ghana by Rev. James McKeown from Ireland. Sixty years later, because of its close links with Elim, churches formed in the UK for the immigrant Ghanaian community eventually became known as ELICOP churches (Elim Church of Pentecost) and in 1996 they had a thousand members in the UK.

Eleven years later in 2007 the then Chairman of Church of Pentecost in Ghana, Rev. Dr. Michael Ntumy and I signed a deed and accord that made COP the closest Denomination in fellowship with Elim. Under Ntumy's leadership COP had become the largest Denomination in Ghana with a membership of 1.4 million members worldwide.

In the UK all ELICOP property was held within Elim's Charity. However it was mutually felt that because of their continual expansion it was right that they should apply for charitable status in their own right. This momentous milestone was celebrated by a service in their thousand seater auditorium in Dagenham, London. I was was the speaker and also in attendance representing Elim were Lionel and Ruth Currie, John and Trish Waller and Regional Leader for the area, David Campbell. The service was led by Apostle S.K. Baidoo from Ghana and Apostle M.S. Appiah resident missionary to the UK.

In the past thirteen years COP in the UK has grown from a members ship of 1000 to 8,500 and the ties bectween COP and Elim have never been stronger.

INFUSE Bible Week

In excess of eight thousand people are involved in Elim Bibles weeks throughout the summer months in the UK. INFUSE held in Burnham-on-Sea is one such family Bible week that is lead by Gordon Neale (Regional leader for Midlands and North East) and his excellent team.

This year the number of (teens-twenties) who run parallel meetings on the site outnumbered all the other age groups combined. It was pleasure to be involved in such a superb and well organised camp and, having spoken there at one of the evening celebrations we returned on the first day of our holiday to enjoy ministry from the other speakers who were taking part.

Harrow International Christian Centre

It was a delight to minister at HICC, a church founded by Michael and Pat Carr twelve years ago and now ocuupying a prime local in the centre of Harrow, London and reaching up to 500 people each week.

Prior to founding the chiurch, Michael had been on the pastoral staff of Kensington Temple and subsequently became a Regional Superintendent.

Although well past the statutory age for retirement Michael gives leadership to a multi-racial church that covers the whole spectrum of age ranges. It is a place where diversity works well - something that adds to its attraction.

UCB TV

Elim has ever-developing links with 'United Christian Broadcasters'. UCB was founded in Europe by Ian Mackie and latterly David L'Herroux has taken an increasingly high profile in the leadership within the UK.

Formerly, Elim and UCB have worked together on the new 'Elim Edition' of Word for Today and within the context of radio. However UCB TV is one of its most exciting developments and now has a fabulous young and creative team that is making its dream a reality. It is headed by Australian born Neil Elliot (pictured far left).

Recently I spent two days at their studios in Stoke recording a one hour program for "Hearts wide open" and was interviewed by Gary Hoogvliet a man who has vast experience in the industry and is a consummate professional. The rest of my time there was spent recording one hundred one-minute messages that will be broadcast in the UK, Australia and New Zealand.

Holmfirth Elim

The church in Holmfirth was birthed out of Huddersfield Elim. It is pastored by Ian Sharp (pictured here with his wife Gail and their son Joshua) who left a successful career in retail management before taking up leadership in Huddersfield.

Before arriving at the church I was taken to the church cafe in the centre of the village that, apart from providing meals six days a week, also has counselling and prayer rooms for the use of the community.

I was surprised on my visit on two levels. Firstly I did not expect the level of growth in a church that had only been accepted by Elim at the 2009 Conference. It was standing room only at the local community centre at which the congregation meets. Secondly, the worship team that,is led by Gail, is worthy of a congregation many times its size.

Huddersfield Elim

It is said that one of the elements of successful church growth is a long pastorate with the right leader. Well, if that is the case, Huddersfield is a case in point.

The first thing you notice about the church is the new building that they have been in for the past twelve months. It is contemporary and high profile in the town centre.

Peter and Kath Hannam (pictured) have given most of their years in ministry to this great church and the hundreds of people who now attend bear testimony to the effectiveness of their ministry.

After the morning service I had the opportunity to have lunch with the core pastoral staff and their wives. The three hours that we spent together left me in no doubt as to potential that this church has in the years to come.