Vision & Action

Heartbeat of Mission – out now!

Foodbanks and village fairs, Passion plays and parenting courses – churches are getting out into communities, being good news. HOPE – the Heartbeat of Mission, which rolled off the presses earlier this week, tells hundreds of stories in 220 pages packed full of tried-and-tested mission ideas. More than 15,000 copies were pre-ordered by denominations keen to equip churches. There are inspiring, creative ways to work together at the heart of local communities sharing Jesus’ love through words and actions, plus funding sources to start new projects. The book will be launched nationally in Easter week. Buy your pre-launch copy now from the HOPE shop. Denominations, Dioceses and groups of churches can enquire about a bulk discount

Pause for thought from HOPE Leadership team member Ade Omooba

The greatest apostles and prophets that Christ used are people who had revelations for their season. They knew what God was doing and plugged into it. God is willing, today, to reveal to us what he is doing in our season. We have to pray and know his focus and what he is asking us to do. We are his children and the ones he will use when he makes a great move. Our starting point is to have an impact locally. We cannot communicate with media and government if we do not first serve people on a local level. Without prayer first there is no substance to our action. What excites God is when you take action on what he reveals to you. We need the revelation so that each one of us finds our place in his plan: fit into that place, function in that place and be fruitful in that place.

Vision without action is just a dream

Action without vision merely passes the time

Vision with Action changes the world

Let’s change the world!

More stuff on Mission Academies…

Youth leaders gathered at the start of the month for a pilot Mission Academy facilitators’ training event for the south. In the coming year it is hoped that 80 Mission Academies will be launched nationwide helping hundreds of young people to develop a lifestyle of mission. The event was exciting as youth leaders shared their stories and encouraged each other. The Newham and Canning Town Mission Academy have seen their young people develop a passion for praying for people on the streets.

A prayer encounter story. Mission Academy video

Passionate about Easter

Churches are joining together to host Easter celebrations or put on public performances of The Passion - a great way to prompt questions about why Jesus died. In 2012 plays were staged in Andover, Glasgow, Romford and Preston.

Public Passion Plays this year are happening in Leicester, London and Brighton.

For Brighton & Hove check out www.soulbythesea.info

Quick Easter mission ideas inspiration on celebrating with an outward-looking Easter.

And here are some tips on communicating the Easter message