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Our fellowship lunch on Sunday past carried a special significance as we celebrated the 80th Birthday of one of our longest serving members, Sandra. During the morning service, we had considered how God had not only cared for Ruth in his providence, but also for Naomi. A lovely afternoon was had by all with, as usual, a lovely spread of food!
Over the last four Sunday mornings, we've been studying the account of Ruth, an Old Testament character who became a key figure in the lineage of the Kings of Israel.
We've considered thus far chapters 1-2, studying in particular the various characters, and what can be learnt from their good and bad points. Above all, the focus is on God who works in people's lives, even in tragedy, to restore and strengthen their faith. We've also looked at the Christian's After the morning worship on Sunday, 30th June, there will be a fellowship lunch for all to attend.
We would be happy to have you along; simply bring some lunch for yourself and a little extra for other, and we usually end up with a feast! This month’s special collection will be towards the building fund of Grace Reformed Church, Gambia. Around two years ago, we highlighted (here) the news about a church with the same name in West Africa. Below is an update on how things are there. We thank God that He continues to bless those who preach faithfully and seek to share the true Gospel message. The congregation in Brikama, headed up by Pastor Konteh, continues to attract around 25-30 folk on a weekly basis. They continue to meet in very limited surroundings, as can be seen from the photos in the slideshow below. They have now started seriously looking for property in the centre of Brikama to build a permanent church, where they might be more public and be able to reach folk in a more effective way. The church has also begun a nursery work with pre-school age children, which is run by Pastor Konteh’s wife, Johnette. This work has grown rapidly, with around 40 children coming at present. They too met in a small compound leased from a landlord, but recently had to move due to some noted hostility towards their faith. This is a reminder to us of just how fragile these works are. They have however, recently acquired land to build three classrooms to continue this work. This has been a real cause of joy amongst all supporting the work there. Pastor Konteh has just completed his first year of theological training with the RPTS (Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, USA) with a view to being licensed by the RP church in Scotland upon the completion of his studies. He is supported in his training by voluntary donations and the congregation, for now, remain 'independent,' as it were. He continues to run a Pastors fellowship, sharing what he is learning with others who wish to preach the ‘…full counsel of God.’ This work particularly is hugely encouraging. If you'd like to support the work, donations can be made via our PayPal or on the last Sunday of June at the church (30th). The June Bible study will take place this Friday, 14th June, at the church. The study will be about Isaiah 16, from the 'Life Change' study book.
All are very welcome and it will be followed by tea, coffee and some fine pieces! |
