Ignite Team Travel to Plymouth to Spread God’s Word

In early February the Ignite Team headed to Genesis House in Plymouth to learn different ways to evangelise. Rebecca Bretherton joined the team and reports.

We learnt that speaking to people on the street about Jesus Christ requires a bit of courage to start with but that many people are happy to stop and talk if approached respectfully. After prayer and learning some methods for listening we had three different experiences of different styles of mission. On our first trip into the city we asked people to complete a short survey about their belief in God and the big issues of life and death. When it was appropriate, we shared our belief that God loves them and is waiting to share His eternal life with them. We prayed with some people after listening to their stories and worries. 

On Saturday morning we joined the weekly ‘bacon butty fry-up’ outside the Catholic church. Here we met some regular guests and talked to people who were experiencing homelessness and loneliness. 

That evening we lit lanterns in church for a time of prayer; some local students sang Taize chants; and the Blessed Sacrament was on the altar. We invited anyone who was walking past to come in and light a candle. We offered to pray with them and spent time talking about our faith with those who wanted to chat. I was surprised how many people took up the invitation. The experience showed me that many people are open to talking about God if they are given the chance. 

One encounter has stayed with me. We invited a young man to light a candle. He was a bit reluctant but stayed for a long time in church. He took some photos on his phone as if to capture a special moment. He chatted to the team outside and explained he was exploring spirituality. He shared that he had recently prayed that God would show Himself and then was intrigued to meet us on a chilly February night. I am still praying that the time he spent with us will help him to encounter Jesus Christ in his life.

Our hosts for the weekend were Michele Thompson and Fr Jon Bielawski who founded the Genesis Mission to prepare disciples for mission in the Catholic Church through prayer and practical experience. 

To find out more go to genesismission.co.uk. 

Comments