News From Voice.

Allister’s News ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’   Revelation 21:4 Recently, I was reading some of accounts of the persecution of Christians in Iran. I felt the pain of those stories – it was almost palpable. Pain, suffering and persecution are an inevitable part of this life. However, as Christians, we can lift our eyes beyond the present horizon. Revelation 21 tells us that in the ultimate dwelling place of God and His redeemed people there will be no more tears, death, mourning, crying and pain. (It doesn’t mention persecution specifically, but we can assume it too is excluded.) These things, which are the harsh realities of this life, will be over once and for all when we take up residence in the New Jerusalem. No wonder the apostle Paul regarded his death as gain (Philippians 1:21). Previously As my region has recently expanded to include Wales (together with the help of my colleague Paul Thomas) it has been my real privilege to start getting to know some Welsh churches, including Machynlleth Community Church where I spoke in early July. Later in July I joined our team at the New Wine Festival in Somerset for the first time and was there for a week. I was amazed at the number of young people who signed up to learn more about the work of Release International. As well as chatting to people at our exhibition hut, we sponsored the food court area and served samples of Hazaq Coffee. This was a great opportunity to meet new people, enjoy quality coffee and talk about the situation facing our Christian brothers in many of the top coffee producing countries in the world such as Indonesia, India and Ethiopia. You can find out more about Hazaq Coffee by clicking the button below. Hazaq Coffee Coming Up In the autumn I will be travelling to the Middle East to visit some of our partners and see some of our key projects in the region. I would really appreciate your prayers for a safe and productive trip. Sunday November 2 is the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP) and we are currently preparing a pack of digital resources to help local churches mark the day. Our theme is Pastors under Pressure, and the pack will include a short feature film on Sri Lanka, Bible talk outline, PowerPoint presentation, prayer points, discussion questions, and children’s activity sheet. I really encourage you to use these resources during a church service, prayer meeting, home group or special IDOP event any time during the month of November. You can download the pack and find out more by clicking the button below. IDOP Resources As part of our IDOP focus, we are also hosting a series of events across the UK featuring special guests Andrew and Norine Brunson. In October 2016 Andrew and Norine hit headlines around the world when they were arrested and falsely accused of terrorism in Turkey. Andrew was held in prison for two years before being dramatically released. Today, the couple are committed to preparing the next generation of Christians to stand in difficult times. I’d love to see you at our event on Friday November 21 Sketty Community Church, Swansea (7:30 pm) and then again in the West Midlands on Sunday November 23 at St Thomas’ Church, Walsall. This event starts at 6.30pm with free refreshments. You can find out more by clicking the button below. Andrew Brunson tour Engagements Oct 5 – Speaking at Aldridge Parish Church, Aldridge, Walsall Oct 26 – Speaking at Streetly Evangelical Church, West Midlands Nov 2 – Speaking at Oasis Christian Centre, Redditch, Worcestershire Nov 10-12 – At the FIEC conference in Blackpool Nov 16 – Speaking at St Mary's Church, Eastwood, Nottingham Nov 23 – Morning event with Andrew Brunson at Bilton Evangelical Church, Rugby Nov 23 - Evening event with Andrew Brunson at St Thomas’ Church, Aldridge, Walsall Pray Give thanks for a busy summer exhibiting at leaders’ summits and festivals. Give thanks for new hearts opening to the plight of persecuted Christians. Pray for the November events with Andrew and Norine Brunson; that lots of people would attend and be inspired by their story to stand firm when opposition comes. Pray for my planned trip to the Middle East; for safety in travelling and a good time of connection and learning about the work.