65 Low Road,

Islandmagee

Tel: 028 93382203

August 2009

Dear Friends,

Have you ever wondered what the church exists for?  Some of you may think it is there for the support of Christians: to help us grow and deepen in a knowledge of God.  Some of you may feel it helps set the agenda of how to live well in a secular society.  Whilst all of these may be true: ultimately the church exists for mission: to be a light to those who do not yet know God.

This year our priority in First Islandmagee Presbyterian church is to seek to answer the question: What does a mission shaped church look like in Islandmagee?

The first step in this is prayer: Paul asked the Colossians to pray that doors would open for him in evangelism.  Often our evangelism can feel like we are hurling ourselves at doors that are padlocked against us.  On other occasions, it can feel like we are trying to engineer artificial contact points between family and friends.  No wonder many of us can feel vulnerable and disillusioned when it comes to evangelism.  But if we stay in close relationship to God, He will show us what He is doing in the world and the people he wants to touch.  God has already been at work in the lives of people in Islandmagee.  It’s our privilege to join with Him in His mission and marvel at the lives He is changing.  Only prayer can help us tune in to God’s heartbeat.

Over the coming months you will hear about the importance of mission and prayer and also worship renewal.  But first of all, join with me in this prayer written by David Day which sets the tone of our desire to be a mission shaped church:

Risen Lord, you have given us the task of making disciples of all nations.

I want to share my part in that commission but I shrink at the responsibility.

Forgive the times when I have behaved insensitively towards neighbours, colleagues and friends and have brought dishonour on your name.

Forgive the opportunities missed and the words spoken out of turn.

Free me from fear, embarrassment and false friendliness.

Give me gracious speech, genuine interest, practical love;

Make me enthusiastic about my faith and comfortable in speaking of you,

My master and my friend, Amen.

May God bless you this autumn time,

Your friend,

Karen Campbell