How lovely to be home!  Didn't make until after midnight after a long, slow and wet journey.  Sitting in a traffic jam for just under an hour didn't help.  In fact it took me nearly 4 hours just to get past Bristol!

Please don't forget though that many will have stayed on and will travel home today.  We pray safety on their journeys.

Coming home is both a joy and a sadness.  As much as it is good to be with family and friends again, you miss the close fellowship; you miss working for the Lord at the edge.  Pray for the team members to settle in home and to be comforted with the knowledge that this harvest is done.
 

But what of the Cornwall Churches?  As was expressed at all 3 weeks thanksgiving services, the work has just begun.  The follow up continues, the desire to reach out has been rekindled and must not be allowed to die away.

So do pray for them; that the heart for outreach; for sharing the gospel in new, fresh and relevant ways will continue.
 

Join us in May 2014 for the 'Two Rivers Mission' in Essex and Suffolk as we walk the lengthes of the Colne and Stour rivers, reaching the peolpe in those valleys for the gospel.

Call TFM and sign up to come.  The harvest is there; who will gather it in?

Please come.

The week 3 teams gatherd with local hosts at Liskeard Methodist Church to give thanks to God for all that He has done both this last week and indeed for the whole of Cornwall during WC2.

We were delighted to welcome Bishop Tim and Rev Steve wild (Methodist Superintendant for Cornwall) who were the main invitees to TFM to come and work with churches to say words of thanks and give a blesing as we travel home.

 

Lemon Quay Truro images



Roger spoke within a programme of performances by a number of groups with testimony and presentations of the gospel.  The largest crowd gathered to hear the Archbishop Benson School choir and drummers who were tremendous and one has to applaud the infectious enthusiasm of the music teachers.

In the crowd, team members went through questionnaires and, where appropriate, distributed Knowing God Personally booklets.  There was also a prayer station where prayers for healing were offered by both team members and 'Healing on the Streets' staff.

One team member was taken ill today and had to be helped.  Although he has remained here in Cornwall he is unable to participate further and needs our prayers.

Final events/services tomorrow and the Thanksgiving in Liskeard will draw the mission to a close.


 

I am starting this on Friday evening as I probably won't get a chance to get something up tomorrow until quite late.  Most teams will be holding a variety of events on this penultimate day and ask for prayer that many will come and respond.  Many invites will have been made during the week and we hope to build on these.  As one man said to me in Launceston this evening, 'it is up to us the locals to nurture these folk to help them to grow'.

There is a big outreach event in Truro all day Saturday as I think I have referred to before.  Led by Roger Murphy and Cornwall Worship there will be acts and speaking opportunities in the main shopping area called Lemon Quay.  Then a concert in the Cathedral in the evening by Graham Kendrick.
 

Some other events happening (not an exhaustive list obviously!) are;

Manse Fun day at Canworthy Water
Messy Church Liskeard
Launceston Carnival
 

In a report in from Liskeard, the leader described it as 'humbling' the way they were seeing people called to faith.  So far there have been more than 20 commitments with many signing up for the Alpha course due to start next week.

An 'X-factor' type event was attended by over 250 people and was a big success with a real 'buzz'. a lot of good and positive relationships established for the local churches to build on.  They were looking forward to a curry night and a youth event this evening and a men's breakfast on Saturday.
 

Report from Perranporth

There are two things that stand out for me from the walk.
A little girl who came regularly to "messy Church" stayed to listen to Peter Adams, and hung on his every word. sat at the front of Church and as I watched her countenance began to change. just like a chrysalis changing to a butterfly. Peter spoke on Jesus being best friend, Saviour and Lord.  At the end of his talk and at the appeal I saw her bow her head and say the prayer. when she finished her Mum got up and started to take her home but I ran after her, "Did you pray the prayer that Peter said?" I asked her.  "Yes " she said.   "Would you like to come back and get a book from my friend Peter?" Her face just shone and she said yes. I took her to the front of the Church and Peter prayed for her and the look on her face was so lovely. I don't think it could look any better if he had told her she could have all the toys in a toyshop!

A real privilege to watch. I am sure the Mum of the little girl was touched too.

Another was when we went into a residential home for Alzheimer's sufferers. I thought it would be a waste of time. How wrong could I be??
there was 5 locals and 4 team members.  We sang old time songs and the residents sang their hearts out,  knew all the words  and some staff joined in. Jeffrey Robinson gave his testimony and led them in the sinners prayer in the K.G.P.  He also said the Lords prayer and they ALL joined in with that too!

After when we were mingling and chatting Liz, one of the "home team" came to me and said I think I have upset 1 of the residents. I went and spoke with the lady and she told me the tissue I offered was a waste as she had a hanky up her sleeve. I asked if she was sad.  'No' she said 'these are happy tears; Jesus is my Saviour and Holy Spirit made me cry'. After she had said this she went back to the vacant stare but how wonderful is our God that she was reached in this way even for this short time.

The main thing we went to do was encourage the local Church folk and I think we did that and help them in their own on-going mission letting them know they can do what we "professionals"(?) did.

W O N D E R F U L!!!

Here is a link to the  St Martins Looe Facebook page with a couple of pictures of the team.

Report from Canworthy Water

'The team has been working in small villages and hamlets and have been greatly encouraged in seeing 2 - 3 people each day coming to faith.  This has mainly been though door to door work.  The first commitments came when a pair from the team took a 'wrong turning' which resulted in 2 separate conversations.

Praise God from whom all blessings flow.'

Further report from Falmouth, from Phil Misselbroke, Local Coordinator

'Churches from Falmouth and Penryn Churches Together had three individual teams working with four churches on their own programs. I was working with the Walk Cornwall 2 Mission flexible team of six plus each day others came from the local churches to help out.
We had a very successful time knocking on just under 600 doors during the week using the TFM personal belief survey with five question.

Following are some of the interesting statistics of the 263 people who filled in the survey.

• 31% believe that God is personal.
• 27% are not sure what happens to them after death.
• 32% believe that Jesus is the Son of God.
• 56% would like to ask God why there is so much suffering in the world.
• And a whopping 60% said that if possible they would like to know God personally.

In one meeting that some of the team were invited to speak at all those attending asked for the Christian booklet ‘Knowing God Personally’. The team must have spoken to over a thousand people through the door to door visiting and other meetings that were laid on. We also prayed for folks and saw 9 people accepted the Lord. Each day we split our team up to do different things. On the Friday half of us stayed in Falmouth while the others spent a day ministering in St Mawes helping a new church reach out into their community.

Throughout the week we felt the Lord’s enabling in many different situations in answer to His people praying and we were amazed at the range of people spoken to from millionaires to single parent families all in need of God’s saving grace shown on the Cross. So the team wanted me to thank all in F&PCT for the encouragements and help shown, all in all a wonderful uplifting time. '



 

The team at Liskeard has reported that they have seen 8 responses on the door visits so far and also good take up of interest in the Alpha course that is planned for after the mission.  They have an X-Factor style event this evening in the Town Hall which they are excited about with over 200 tickets sold.  Roger Murphy will be speaking at this event. 

Work in the Community College has gone well with 'Grill a Christian' and assemblies.  It looks as though this will generate a Christian Union and a higher profile for the faith in the school.  John reports that his Hot Potato events have been attended by 25-30 with good questions.

If you wonder why you don't hear anything about John Hibberd its because he is posting separately on the WC2 Face book page. So do look there as well.   Roger Murphy?  Is he here?  Apparently somewhere but no news !!!!!  Which means he is busy and getting on with it.

Nothing from the teams to report just yet.  We know from the local team here where we are based in Canworthy Water that they have been getting a little wet when they go out and about.  So we hope for at least some drier conditions for them.  However responses from those that  they meet have been positive and we look forward to hearing more later.

Overall we continue to get the impression that organised events are not attended well or just by regular church people rather than non church people which has been disappointing.  However we trust that other contacts are more fruitful.  Many of course we don't get to hear about.

The HQ team are taking a time out day today.  Daniel is resting up; he still has a cold and feeling a little under the weather.  Please particularly pray for Saturday and a major music and outreach event in Truro.  There are stalls and music and other things happening through the day on the Lemon Quay Plaza and then a concert in the Cathedral in the evening featuring Graham Kendrick.  This is being coordinated by 'Cornwall Worship' with Roger Murthy on the streets for TFM and WC2 along with some team members.

 

Report from Bodmin (week 2)

It was an absolute privilege being asked to lead a team for TFM WC2. It has opened my eyes to a different way of serving the Kingdom.  Harder than I imagined, but infinitely more satisfying. Building relationships with the team, hosts and the local ministers was a joy, hopefully to be repeated.

Due to a packed program and occasional heavy rain, our door to door work suffered, but we did carry out surveys wherever we could. The local church fully understood this and supported our decision to work elsewhere other than the doors, although there were sufficient numbers to give good feedback.  The week began and ended on a high note, with Daniels NOC on the Saturday, and ended with John H's talk on Angels and his Hot Pizza open air question time.

The weather on Saturday changed dramatically, so that the Fun Day and Hog roast at the football club, and the Folly, was a real highlight to finish the week on.

My one particular memory, (out of many) was that of meeting a young Christian living in constant pain with MS, explaining that if Jesus were to offer her a pain free life without MS, in exchange for Christ leaving her life, her easy decision would be to live in pain, and worship Jesus, and use her pain filled life as a witness to others, and she really meant that!

The team were amazing, never complaining, despite being wet and tired a lot of the time, and always on the go, with very little personal time, always willing to serve when asked, always out of their own particular comfort zone, as the program changed and shifted at the last minute.

Report from Falmouth (week 1)

We had a really good week of mission, concentrating on door-to-door work.
The rough results are: 1600 doors knocked; 800 doors answered; 400 surveys completed.

We saw two people respond on the doors – one student and one housebound old lady. We passed on the information to the Priest Father John.

On a general level, the team worked together well. It was very unusual for some of us to be working with a Roman Catholic church and we all learned a lot. There was much enthusiasm from the church and 13 members of the congregation joined in the mission at various times. We complimented them on their support and feel that the mission will continue.

The Priest, Father John Bielowski, was very much the leader. He is keen on mission and seeks to be a fisher of men.


 

Report from Landrack;

In a Primary School all day, including an assembly & involvement in a number of classes. Afternoon RE class with Year 6 with questions about our faith and why we believe what we do. Seized opportunity during these to explain origin of Jesus, his work on Earth & his promised return. Well received by both pupils and staff. Fed lunch in canteen.

Report from Bude:

Sat 5th. The team gathered as arranged at Launceston on Saturday for the commissioning service after which travelled to Morrisons by car and walked to URC Church for tea f/b team meeting.  Dispersed to Mass and/or homes for evening meals.
 
Sun 6th  Four people asked Peter for booklets after service at St. Michael's, and 12 booklets were taken after the evening service at Launcell's Church. At The Tree Inn in the evening one couple particularly appreciated Vinny's singing and asked him for a tape, and Phil had a long conversation with a psychic medium who was open and accepted a booklet. Visit to Trelana Rest Home on Monday unfortunately cancelled because residents all unwell with flu.
 
Weather great and an encouraging start.

A story from last week;

"A lady gave her life to Jesus on Sunday 22nd September. She sent me a text today and said, 'I know Jesus is with me all the time, always seem to be able to picture him when I pray'"

 

Teams and locals gathered at Holy Trinity in the centre of St Austell Sunday afternoon to give thanks for all God has done this last week. 

A long line of locals came forward to testify how the week had gone;  Yes some struggles but many, many blessings.  One lady was brought to tears as she recounted that her brother and sister in law had received Christ into their life's.

Then team members similarly gave testimony of many wonderful encounters, some where a person came to faith, but also significant steps forward for others who will be followed up during the coming days.

Daniel addressed us thanking everyone for all they contributed; for the giving of themselves in new, challenging and fresh ways.

Music was led by the Holy Trinity worship group which included an amazing fiddle player.  For me, the haunting Celtic sound was wonderful!


Earlier in the day, Daniel spoke at a church in Liskeard where he was greeted on arrival by the pastor and his wife who, stated that they had both come to faith during WC1.  This is just one of many stories we have heard this last couple of weeks of people who were challenged 20 years ago.  Most we knew nothing about and we pray that there will be many other such tales should we come back in another 20 years.  Such is mission that actually we do not know where seeds have been sown or when they will be reaped.  It is exciting and rewarding when we reap the results of the hard work over a long period of time by locals.  However we need to remember that only God will know the full story.

As we go from this area there will be a collective sigh of relieve.  Many are tired, but in a good way.  As one person said to me afterwards 'thank you so much for letting me being involved'.  We pray for them to continue in the good work, reaching out and sharing together.

 

REPORT FOR FALMOUTH

We had a delightful week. It was fruitful, and enjoyable – one of my best mission experiences with TFM.

We were a small team (6 in total) but an excellent one. Everybody had a great servant attitude, and the team spirit was great form the outset. Our times together were characterised by a lot of laughter – not least when we (because of a breakdown in communication) were required to eat two full meals of lasagne and a pudding in the space of an hour!!

We were hosted superbly by the New Life Centre, in particular the pastor and his wife (David and Jean Gray) and adult daughter (Sarah). A lot of work had gone into preparing the programme by Phil Misslebrook (Baptist) and three of the team had a bed, and some breakfasts, at the home of the Winslade’s, from one of the Anglican churches.

Much of the time was spent in door-to-door. This proved very fruitful, with around 15 people expressing commitment, with a welcome of a follow up, and others expressing a commitment but declining follow up.

Specific events were in fact something of a disappointment, in that some were cancelled, through lack of support, and some were really church events (a home group, open evening in a church cafe etc.). The men’s breakfast and ladies’ “Be beautiful” on the final Saturday somewhat broke this mould.

Schools work amounted to 4 assemblies and a CU – which I felt were valuable encouragements to the developing chaplaincy programme in Falmouth Secondary School.

A personal highlight was preaching at All Saints Anglican on the final Sunday – an Anglo-Catholic church with a congregation of 30ish.  Wasn’t really sure how the message had been received. However, over coffee at the end people were queuing up for KGP. Lynda (from the team) and I had 12 between us. We ran out, and had to arrange for extra supplies. One lovely 84 year old gent said “I am tired of all the words – I want something more simple, more personal” He prayed the commitment prayer twice, just to make sure!!

 

Week 3 teams arrived today in Launceston (pronounced Larn-son).  It was great to see them all and local church leaders gathering together.  The Commissioning service was led by David Culhane and the address given by Peter Adams.  All the rest of the TFM evangelists were elsewhere although Roger managed to catch us just at the end of the service and encourage everyone with how things were going in other centres that he has been involved with.

Peter reminisced that he had been based in Launceston in the very hall we were meeting in today 20 years ago on WC1!

A story from 20 years ago - a team member was involved in helping wash cars one day and spoke through the drivers window with a man who was very low in spirit. He offered to pray with the man and did so.

Jump forward 20 years to last week;  the same team member was doing door to door work in a village near Perranporth.  A man comes to the door and says 'I know you!  You prayed for me 20 years ago.' The man had been helped tremendously and had become a Christian and involved in his Church.  How good is God.  Both were encouraged to meet up with each other.

Another story from last week.  Three ladies were at an event and attempts made to involve them in conversation seemed unsuccessful.  hHwever we learnt today that they all came to a Night of Colour in the week and have become Christians.  Praise God.

The commissioning itself was performed by the Revs Audrey Elkington and Doreen Sparey-Delacassa.
 

Please pray today for those travelling down for week 3 which starts in Launceston tomorrow morning.

Daniel led a Morning of Colour in Fowey today at the beautiful Fowey Hall Hotel; the inspiration for Toad Hall apparently.  That aside we were warmly welcomed and a receptive audience responded to the gospel message.  I managed to negotiate the coast to coast drive without getting lost!  I did a 20 mile detour last night getting to St Austell.

At a lunch 'Any questions' in St Columb Major, John Hibberd was joined by Bishop Chris (in mufti) and after a slow start the questions flowed and people left with a good sense of answers given and still wanting more.

Unfortunately a breakfast meeting planned for Truro Cathedral Saturday morning has been cancelled.  Also sadly we have to move HQ today/tomorrow.  I'm sure our new one for week 3 will be wonderful but the view of the Newquay bay and Fistral beach from the panorama window has been a real blessing of calm this week.

Report from Bodmin;

'This has been a tough week, plenty of opposition in certain areas. But incredible blessings elsewhere. The door work has been very hard, especially as the weather has been so changeable. The schools have been so receptive to our presence in the main.

The residential and care homes have been a joy, as have the opportunities of working with young people with learning difficulties. The local people have been wonderfully supportive, although its the same faithful few. But the gem of Bodmin has been the 'drop in café' given to us at the last moment; an empty wine bar completely transformed by the few, into an oasis for God. More have come to faith there than elsewhere.

The team are incredible, never have they refused a task given to them, despite the fact that everyone is well outside their comfort zones. Some are getting tired, all have been soaked to the skin, but still they smile and work hard.

Three days to go and lots to do, my first role as leader has taught me so much and humbled me, and bought me to my knees in prayer for the great opportunity of serving God in a different way.'



 

The day started with torrential rain making moving around very difficult with some local flooding.  Never the less we continue and Daniel was at a morning colour event in Par near St Austell.  A small audience but very receptive and we trust that the Holy Spirit worked in the lives of the few people who responded.  The team there were in good health.

John is in Camelford today for an 'Any Questions' event at lunch and a led walk this afternoon;  the later I suspect might get cancelled sadly!

Team reports have come in with general comments of 'all is going well' but nothing specific to report in the main.

One report we did get was of a man called Lee with some physical handicap who  was met on a couple of occasions and led to the Lord.  Do pray for Lee, for this life changing experience, that he may grow and mature in his new found faith.

Vini Jones, a folk musician from Jersey joins the mission today with a first jig in Par.  Pray that many will come and be challenged by his special talent of sharing his faith with his music.

Perranporth team report

Monday
D2D.
Man sweeping garden and saw walkers enquiring.  He recognised one walker who had prayed for him 20 years earlier.  At that time he had been struggling in his walk with God.  He has grown spiritually a great deal since.  The man and the walker were both greatly encouraged and the man was prayed for.

Craft Event
Walker shared with a lady his experience of the recent suicide of his son.  Lady shared that she had previously considered suicide.  Walker prayed with her for healing and her faith was very much strengthened.

Cream Tea Event
Walker was sharing about the mission and was suddenly joined by a male holidaymaker.  Walker discerned that man was earnestly seeking God.  Walker took man aside and led man through KGP.  Man eagerly said the believer's prayer.  He went off to tell his wife after experiencing true peace.

A personal reflection from the Falmouth team last week;

We had a great time; quite a number were brought to the Lord during the week.  For example, Saturday 21st met guy on Falmouth pier fishing (my forte) he was having difficulty casting - showed him how and chatted - disclosed several difficulties - asked him to New Life - Monday he came then back Tuesday when he gave his life to the Lord.

On the doors Monday called at house - phone ringing - young mother came to door - within a few minutes she gave her life the Lord phone call ceased Mother came who was a Christian!!  Another day called at a house and two young women answered - one at a time they too gave their lives to the Lord - almost as if they were waiting for us - so it went on during the week.

What a wonderful gracious Lord.

Wadebridge
At a healing service last night about 20 people came forward for prayer including a couple who both made a commitment and another man who was clearly seeking and close to a decision. The local church are following them up and an Alpha course starts in about 10 days.

The church leader spoke that he had had a clear message that there would be 50 new converts as a direct result of the mission.

Report from Par
'We are having a blessed time here in Par with 6 new commitments and church members are being very encouraged, blessed and stirred as they bless us.  Rain kept us in yesterday somewhat but God was working in the things we did inside.'

Camborne report from a Church Leader
'God visited Camborne, Cornwall in a mighty way from 21st through to 30th September 2013. People were saved, others heard the Gospel on their doorsteps, in the streets, or in pubs. A hotel was hired for a whole day at which over 230 people were reached. Pupils in schools also heard the good news. A big 'Thank you' to the TFM team who gallantly worked with us and spurred us on. To God be the glory. Only eternity will reveal the results.'

(Camborne and Redruth worked amazingly well together to particularly support a small fellowship that is growing and just this last weekend appointed a new senior pastor who's first job will be to follow up nearly 40 contacts from the mission).

Camelford

'Here's a story about a lady, who came to faith at our healing service in Camelford tonight Tuesday):

The team met her at lunchtime when she came into church asking for food vouchers.  Some of the team took her down to the local Food Bank and in the course of the conversation was invited to the healing service that evening.

Not as many people came to the healing service as anticipated so Roger Murphy asked me (team leader) to stand down 3 pairs of people we were going to be praying.  I messed this up by sending the person who was going to give his testimony to the pub!  As soon as the service started I realised my mistake and ran down the road and mercifully found him.  Then I turned round and noticed the lady waiting outside the venue for the healing event.  I took her in and we sat together.  She was visibly touched by the meeting, the singing seemed to help her, as did Roger's message.  She prayed the prayer of commitment at the end of the service.  I could see that she was being touched by what the Holy Spirit was doing and she asked me to take her outside so we went, followed by another team member.  We prayed with her and then brought her back inside and gave her literature and took her details.  In the prayer meeting prior to the service two of us had pictures that related to her coming to faith.  After giving her life to the Lord she looked so peaceful, so full of joy.  Her personal circumstances are  tough and I know that it took a lot of courage for her to come tonight but the Lord clearly met with her.  She's been invited to a Ladies' evening on Thursday and her partner says he's coming to the Mens' Breakfast on Saturday.  Tomorrow I'm going to be arranging more long-term follow-up with the local churches.  God is so amazing.'

 

 

There is an article on the Truro Diocese website here.

St Austell reports.  The team are working in STACK St Austell community Kitchen helping serve and prepare food.  They received a visit from Bishop Tim which was appreciated.

They have been working on the streets and come into contact with one young male addict particularly.  Please join them in praying into this situation.  He seems genuinely interested in faith.

Newquay reports 2 commitments at the Hot Potato session yesterday lunch time.

On the doors yesterday an elderly man gave his life to the Lord. It transpired that the team member knew his sister very well!  How is that for putting the right person in the right place.  God is good.

Bodmin reports 'Father James McCluskey (1st mission) has 3 tough men recently join his home church that use the "DVD tough talk" but he has been trying so hard to reconnect them with the men in the DVD, without success. Today he met a casual passer by in our drop-in café, who in conversation knew the main man in the DVD and provided the telephone number!

Again in the café I was going through the survey with a young Christian lady with ME and in constant pain  She explained to me that given the chance she would not swap her painful condition in exchange for losing her faith! She felt that her situation assisted her ministry to others in similar situations!

The drop in café has bought several closer to the kingdom.

Schools and colleges giving us fantastic reception, despite enormous opposition from some quartets.

The team are simply amazing, having to respond at the last minute to many changes in the programme, they are working so hard, without query or complaint, pray is holding us close together.

God is smiling on us as a team.
 

Team reports;

Newquay have access into the Costa Coffee bar.  Last night they met up with a young American chap here on holiday and led him to a commitment.  They also spoke with 3 Spanish lads here to work through the summer.  They hope to follow up these 3 during the week.

St Endellion have made a great start in services and schools.  Also a rather fabulous music concert where they were able to share their faith.

Camelford reports;
Team settling in well and getting a good response from the locals.  One item of significance:-

Emma was preaching in Souls Harbour Church yesterday and sharing her testimony of how she went from an atheist scientist to a Christian.  She did an appeal and two teenagers came up to at the end and asked for KGPs for their friends.  Then a lady came up to her in tears because her son had been bullied for standing up for his faith on the school bus last Friday.  Emma prayed for her and for her son and his friend. 

In the evening youth event both teenagers were there and the team were able to help them with some apologetics and give them confidence in their ability to handle these difficult questions.  In addition, two other team members had met the brother of one of these boys when out prayer walking that afternoon.  We've prayed for protection as they travel to school on the bus and a few of us will be at youth group again on Friday to encourage them.  Also the team have been encouraged and challenged through this - we're here doing mission for just one week yet these boys are doing it every day.  It was a real joy to help equip them to share their faith.  Nurturing/discipleship is just as important as leading people to faith and it was good that several of the team were able to experience this.  It encouraged them enormously. 



 

Sorry there isn't a report today.  I will catch up tomorrow afternoon.  Internet access has been difficult today and we have also been busy.

HQ moves to Newquay tomorrow morning so watch this space......

Now sitting a hotel in Newquay during a Morning of Colour on Monday morning and able to catch up.

 

John Hibberd reports good meetings at Shekinah Church in Penzance and also a good fun day at St Erths.

Here is the report of the doings of the Team at Marazion, Goldsithney, Perran and Ludgvan;

'We  were well supported with door knocking by 12 local people at various times, which was a wonderful blessing for both the team and the churches who will benefit from the experience gained.

Our team visited 940 homes, had 371 answered doors and completed 222 surveys.
64% said they believed in God,15% not sure and 21% did not.
31% believe Jesus is the Son of God, 48% would ask God about suffering.
59% would be interested in knowing God personally, 27% were not sure and 14% would not.

During a week packed with School Assemblies, pub work, Church services, harvest celebrations and social events, 10 people invited Jesus into their lives and relationships between the different denominations were strengthened.

The  Fun Day which was a new venture, brought Church members and the Community together and was deemed a success by all who participated.'


 

Week 2 is under way.  The teams gathered in Truro Methodist Church this morning and then progressed to the Cathedral steps where Bishop Chris commissioned everyone in a service led by Peter Adams.

Now they have set off to their mission centres.  100% improvement (or is that deterioration?) on last week - we lost 2 people!  Still not quite sure where they are but I am sure they will turn up!  They were at registration so can't be far a way.













As ever we try to look out for passers by to speak with.  One tm spoke with a German lady here on holiday.  She was a Christian and when she heard what we were doing was amazed saying that they don't do anything like this in her country.

We were also interviewed by Donna Birrell from Radio Cornwall and hopefully this will be broadcast as part of the Sunday morning show tomorrow.  The Rev Elaine Munday who came to faith on WC1and is now based in Bodmin was interviewed and also reunited with the team member who was instrumental in that convertion 20 years ago - still coming on mission today!

Another team member was interviewed by 'Faces of Cornwall' so hopefully something will appear here soon.  They did a piece on John Hibberd's prayer walk last June.

Some reports to pass on;

A team went into a school this week.  Only small classes and saw about 15 pupils to start with but they were asked back to see the whole school!

The day after a healing service a lady ran up to the team shouting 'my leg is healed, my leg is healed'.

Following the same service a man described how he felt 'free' from all his worries and problems.  He hadn't felt so for years.
 

When we are on mission we follow a set of Bible study notes, this year prepared by John Hibberd.  In our reading today we looked at Peter and the time when Jesus asked him 3 times 'Do you love me?'.  John reminded us that that the key issue for us to see is how Jesus restored a man who'd messed up.

On mission we see many who's lives are messed up (not least our own sometimes!) and the chance to be able to tell them that there is a way out through Jesus is a wonderful thing.

Daniel spoke to a large crowd at the Lowenac Hotel in Camborne last night and, as we find each night, some responded and received Christ into their lives for the first time.  Praise God.

However it's not always an easy ride.  John Hibberd had a rough time at any questions session where he was challenged on a particular issue; mostly from Christians.  Whereas issues are important for us to discuss and debate and it is understandable that we hold different views, it sometimes seems we forget that the important thing is Jesus and as a consequence our disagreements put people off.

We are aware of one team that is struggling within the parameters set by the local church leaders to feel effective in mission.  Please pray for them as they never the less seek to honour their calling and bring the gospel to as many as they are able.

The pastoral situation I mentioned yesterday is much improved.  Thank you for your support in prayer.  Your prayers are being answered.  Please don't stop.

Other teams continue to submit good reports.  No specific stories to pass on but I will add more as they come in.

 

A team report from Penzance;

They have seen over 200 children from schools through the Prayer Zone at St Mary's.
Done 3 school assemblies
50 attended a cooking demo by a chef and also heard the gospel
The number of requests for prayer as the team go around is huge
There is a 12hr per day prayer team covering all they do.

Daniel was in Coverack yesterday afternoon and the largest audience he has seen (about 40) gathered at St Peters Hall overlooking the bay.  A number of people spoke with him afterwards and certainly one made a commitment.

We are aware of a one lady in need of pastoral care.  Without any details of who or where please prayer for her and those who will minister in this situation.

Good reports of Hot Potato talks that John Hibberd has done the last couple of days.  Monday in St Erth and Wednesday in Redruth, both well attended with 40+ and comments that it was refreshing to hear someone worth listening to and who was prepared to be challenged on any subject.  John is in Perranuthnoe near Marazion this evening for a pub quiz and any questions event.  Daniel is in Coverack.

One team has reported contact with 5 schools where they have been given clear permission to speak of Christ and as they go out on the streets many locals are joining them which is great.
 

Some prayer requests;

That this will not just be what the visiting teams do but that there will be an excitement through participation from locals that will carry on well beyond the Walk and after people go ‘phew. Glad that’s over!’

We are aware of darkness and difficulties.  Pray for peace and protection.  That light will break into the darkness and illuminate all.

For safety as people travel around from event to event.

Some churches will see little fruit.  This can lead to despondency.  We need to remember that our call is to share the good news. It is up to God to bring the harvest and in his timing.  Pray that we will praise Him in all circumstances.  We do not know what seeds have been sown and in what field they will germinate and grow.

For those who make a recommitment that they would act on this and become reconnected into a local fellowship and that the fellowship will love and support them.

Praise for all that IS happening; for the number of locals involved, for the 20 strong YWAM team that are involved in the Redruth/Camborne area; for the dedicated prayer that has gone on in some cases for years; for the access into schools and the lives of young people that are reached.

For the commissioning service in Truro this coming Saturday - there are a few final details still to sort out.

 

Street work in Redruth this morning.  There was also an Open Air Campaigners man there and a prayer stall, completely independent of WC2.  A Hot Potato event was planned for lunch time in the café.

 

YWAM team members outside the Redruth churches drop in centre. All are from America and excited to be here undergoing training and involved in practical outreach.
 

Questionnaire discussions in the local Christian café.  This café has been in operation for a number of years and is a great meeting place for many people.  Whilst we were there this morning there was also a Bible study group going on in the corner.







We have just had a phone call from a team in Coverack and St Keverne who had been in a school this morning and were just about to take another class this afternoon as part of the Open Book access.  Pray for the young enquiring minds.

Reports from teams have been low so far but I did manage to speak with a few last night as they completed Day 3. Most say that they are encouraged by the programmes they are working with and the enthusiasm of the local churches to be involved.  A 'quite building of expectation' is how one team leader put it.
 

A couple of stories;

From door to door work, 'A lady invited us in then told us that on the first Walk Cornwall she was living in the outer Hebrides and had a map of Cornwall on her kitchen door.  She prayed all through the mission.  She now lives (here in Cornwall) and joining in with the local church team, helping on door to door work'.

'A lady walking in the town slipped over on the kerb and hurt her ankle.  The team were able to assist and she was pleased to be offered prayer there in the street'.

Hopefully as we make contact with other teams we will get other stories in to pass on.

One thing we did pick up on though - not an unfamiliar situation - is how busy leaders are and, as a consequence, how tired they are.  So please pray for them during this week and of course your own church leaders.
 

More stories just in;

After our evening meal we had a little time before setting off for the pub. It was decided we would take the guitar and do some singing down at the local bus station. It was unplanned and as we sang it sounded some what haphazard but when it came to singing Amazing Grace we gave it our best. Unknown to us nearby was a young couple listening. The young lady came over to speak and said that Amazing Grace was sung at her grannie's funeral-two weeks ago! She was touched and we then sang another verse with her.  Her boyfriend said it made him feel good inside and we gave out a KGP with a lot of hugs!

 
How is this for a welcome!

A large group of people gathered at Carn Brea, a hill between Redruth and Camborne, to pray.  The site allows a tremendous view over a large stretch of Cornwall and over 10% of the county population apparently live within a 6 mile radius of this point.  We prayed and sang and asked God to pour His Spirit on this land and into the hearts of those around us that there might be a new awakening to the Gospel.  One church leader spoke of the fact that in the past he has felt as if he was pushing  a rock up a hill as he encouraged his congregation in outreach.  Yet on this mission he felt as if the rock was rolling away from him as the momentum of interest and enthusiasm grew a pace!  Praise God.

We were joined by 20 YWAM volunteers who are staying in the area this week and have become involved in the mission.  Their joy was infectious and it was a joy to hear them singing and praying for this land.







At Daniel's first Night of Colour engagement there was a man who obviously didn't want to be there.  In a conversation afterwards it was good to challenge him with his need for faith.  What he took from that we won't know.  It's in God's hands.  We pray that something has started in his life this night.

Two team members went to dinner with an openly gay male couple and they spoke openly with them of faith.  They hope to follow them up during the week.

These are the stories we know of today.  I am sure there wil be many others.  Please pray for the teams as they go about the sowing and reaping of the harvest

 

At last we are here and WC2 started this morning.  The teams gathered this morning with stories to tell of journeys;  one taking numerous ferries, a plane, a kip of some hours on a bench and then a bus to finally arrive.  Others delayed by closed roads. My own story was of an un-eventual journey except the last 30 seconds when I scraped the side of the brand new hired van on a wall leaving deep gouge marks!

However nothing stopped us from God's work.

We gathered at Centenary Methodist in Camborne; the congregation warmly welcomed us with refreshments and even provided lunch later for many.  Sorting into teams, old friendships were renewed and new ones began to form.





Then it was on to Wesley Methodist for the Commissioning service.  Although a little drizzly we stood outside and sang and prayed and received a blessing for the week led by the local Church Leaders.

Then teams departed with their hosts.


However even as we were focussed on ourselves at this point, there were those tasked in the street to talk with passers by and one young man was led to make a first step of commitment of faith.  Lets pray that when he got home the Holy Spirit continued to work in his life to affect a lasting change.  Praise God and may he be one of many who are brought to faith or at least to consider what its all about for the first time during this mission.



You can read a write up on the Truro Diocese website here


 

Yesterday did not quite go to plan.  The literature we were expecting isn't coming until Friday and the laminator broke!  So we have arranged for the literature to be shipped to Cornwall HQ so that we can finish the packing for weeks 2 & 3 next week and I arranged to borrow a new laminator (helps to have a wife in a school that is willing to lend me things!).

So this morning I am busy laminating the ID cards and then off to collect the van to load up this afternoon ready to depart Friday morning.

Rev Daniel Cozens is travelling down today and many others I am sure will be travelling tomorrow.  So we pray for safe journeys for everyone and perhaps to meet someone on the way with whom we can share the gospel.

And we continue to pray for the Churchs and for the task ahead.

God bless

Is it really only 3 days to go?  For us here in the office it's only 1 1/2 days to go as we need to pack the van Thursday afternoon  to be ready to leave Friday morning for the journey down.  Currently printing the ID cards and waiting for Daniel to bring his paintings in for loading up.

The team shirts are packed and ready in my garage at home!  The car will be glad to get out of the wet soon.



















The literature is almost ready.  Waiitng for one final deliverey of 'What if?' leaflets as we ran out at the last minute with extra requests.
 

The office team are busy preparing for Walk Cornwall 2.  The photo copier has been churning away producing Song sheets and Bible study notes and the phone has been ringing with last minute queries from team members and churches.  

Please pray that we may get everything done in time for the start on Saturday and for all the team members as they make their last minute preparations.