Londonderry encouragements
Open-Air Mission (OAM) evangelists and helpers undertook a week of gospel ministry in the centre of Londonderry, in early July, at the invitation of the Association of Baptist Churches of Northern Ireland. The team was well looked after by Londonderry Baptist Church and included young people from various Baptist churches – some of them experiencing open-air work for the first time.
Each morning they met to study God’s Word, pray and take part in training sessions. During the afternoons they put what they learnt into practice.
Londonderry is cut in two by the River Foyle. Most of the inhabitants on the city centre side are Roman Catholics, and it is perhaps the least evangelised city of Northern Ireland. Yet, there seemed a greater openness to the gospel than amongst the Protestant community of Northern Ireland.
During the week good numbers of people could be seen standing and listening to the preaching of God’s free grace in the Lord Jesus Christ. Most listened respectfully and stayed to ask questions afterwards.
Ninety-nine individuals were spoken to over the course of the week and almost as many Gospels of John were given to those who had shown interest.
Some members of the team were seconded to the town of Limavady to work alongside the Baptist church there. Again a number of good conversations took place. During two of the evenings the team did door-to-door work on a Roman Catholic estate and once again received an encouraging response.
The week was a great blessing to all involved; it is hoped to do the same next year.
