Final night at the Bible Week
The 2009 Bishop's Bible Week concluded with another bold and passionate message from the final verses of Jude. Our reader for Thursday evening was CLLR Meta Crozier, Mayor of Craigavon and a member of Shankill Parish.
Archbishop Ben pulled no punches as he urged us to be consumed by the gospel and to 'snatch others from the fire and save them' (v.23). He spoke again of our need to share the good news with our children and to refuse to accept the loss of the generations below us. This was a timely encouragement as the diocese moves ahead with plans to appoint a Children's Officer.
Worship was again led by the Shankill Parish music group but this time Carl McCambley was joined at the end by the Parish Choir. They sang a refreshing 'honky tonk' version of 'Count your blessings' which proved a great way to wrap up the event.
Thursday evening's reception was for members of this summer's mission teams from parishes around the diocese. A large group of young people shared their experiences of trips to India (Belvoir), Romania (Shankill Parish), and Uganda (Down Battalion BB and a team from Love for Life). We also heard from individuals who had worked in Serbia, Argentina, Senegal, Paraguay and Banbridge! Bishop Ben and Gloria spoke of their gratitude to the young men who brought the gospel to Nigeria and died in the process. They encouraged our young people to keep on in mission. 'Two things, said Gloria. 'Firstly, just go! Secondly, live grateful lives for you have seen what need there is and also how much you have.
You can listen to Bishop Harold's opening comments and thanks from Thursday evening here.