THANKS

What an amazing day and night we had! After a week of intensity and facing down threats, it was such a wind down to come along to City LIFE Centre and to spend the day with several hundred visitors over the four hours and around 100 at the concert tonight. Many people from the Shankill, who have never been to New Life, plus others who had gotten away from us, came along and enjoyed the afternoon. I spoke with a family from the Falls, a man his wife, their daughter and son in law and their children. They were so moved as I took them around the church and explained who we are and what we do. They said they had no idea that any church was doing this kind of work. They took some of our literature with them (including copies of my books!). Others came in to look around the church and made very positive comments about the day and about the work we do.

 

The only disappointing thing about tonight was the poor turn out. Seems like Saturday nights are not the thing, although I have to admit we were competing with Snow Patrol and Britain's Got Talent tonight! However, there was nothing disappointing about the programme. The African Singers got us off to a great start; their singing, their moves (especially Dickson), their "cat calls" (I think you know what I mean!), really helped set the scene for the rest of the night. Then the Polish singers and musicians stepped up, and man could they sing and play! The Hickies then stepped it up from the last time they sang and even had people up at the front dancing when they sang their song about "Colours". Then there was Johan, the Romanian Street Musician who plays down in Belfast. He never wanted to leave the stage. He stole the hearts of the people. If he had put a cap down he would lifted a fortune! Before he knew who we were he told us he was from a Pentecostal church background in Romania. He said he had been praying for a church in recent weeks and cannot wait until he gets home to tell his wife about the church. We hope to see them at church. But listen to this! As a Romanian, he speaks German as a second language, and three of our people were able to speak with him in German, Mandy Mullin, Alex Downey, and wait for it: Billy Haddock! 

 

Okay, but what about Splat Experience? Those presentations were just amazing! To watch a black blank canvas be transformed before our eyes was totally awesome. The only good thing for those who missed it tonight is that Marc will be back at New Life tomorrow morning and will be doing two different presentations.

 

Thanks to EVERYONE who did ANYTHING today and tonight. Your contributions, help and support were greatly appreciated. Continue to watch this space.

 

All things to all men that by all means we might save some.

 

Jack