Roy Crowne who heads up the Hope initiative writes…
“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.” John the Baptist fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy, preparing the way for Jesus. As John addressed the crowds, people asked: “What should we do?” Luke’s Gospel records his response to tax collectors, soldiers and people like us; telling us to demonstrate the presence of God and power of the message with practical action. As we start a New Year, we have the exciting challenge of pointing people to Jesus today. Let’s ask God for creativity and compassion as we respond to what Jesus has done for us with both words and actions, together as a whole body.
Hope for Les Miserables
Potentially the biggest blockbuster of the year, Les Miserables, provides opportunities to talk about forgiveness & hope. If you have yet to see the film do get along and use this to talk to people who have also seen the film about some of the deep issues covered in the film, not least standing together against injustice!
Rural Mission
With 60% of the diocese of Chichester being rural it is good to know that there are an increasing number of dedicated resources available from the Arthur Rank Centre and other Agencies with a rural focus in their mission and evangelism. Everything from cream teas, beer mats in country pubs and community shops - HOPE is working with rural churches and ministries sharing ideas, good practice and resources to inspire community mission that is particularly relevant to country churches. More on rural mission.
Stronger Together
Redeeming our Communities (ROC) is the latest HOPE partner. HOPE works in partnership with dozens of ministries and organisations. Joint action means an even better outcome for communities and people across the UK
HOPE exists to equip and support local churches to speak and live its mission, effectively using word and action outreach to share the gospel and see communities transformed.
Follow us on Twitter @HOPEtogether and like us on Facebook @HOPE Together.
