Interact 3-2025 pages

GOOD NEWS FOR EVERYONE

ISSUE 3, 2025

INTeRACT Toolbox for Ministry Resourcing chaplains

Building Partnerships Reaching young people in Africa

Lifebringer Voices Sharing the Bible all over the world

CONTENTS 04 08 10 12 14 Toolbox for Ministry Resourcing chaplains

News

The latest news from the Lifewords global family

Building Partnerships Reaching young people in Africa

Lifebringer Voices Sharing the Bible all over the world

Get Involved

Lifewords and you

Issue 91 / 3–2025 Editorial team Jess Bee Kris Calver Steve Bassett

Lifewords is the operating name of Scripture Gift Mission (Inc), registered charity in England and Wales, 219055

Photographs Lifewords unless otherwise stated

Registered office 1A The Chandlery, 50 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7QY

Cover photograph Kris Calver Design S2 design and advertising Ltd Print Yeomans Creative

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Interact is free, available three times a year from your nearest member of the Lifewords global family of organisations (see page 15).

WELCOME Jesus told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.”

Mark 16:15 NLT

Earlier this year, we launched Lifebringers – an open invitation and way of collaborating, resourcing, and sharing the Bible through real lives, real contexts, and a shared hope. All over the world Lifebringers are bringing life in their neighbourhoods, churches, workplaces. They are sharing the life-giving message of the Bible in word and deed. And we’re here to celebrate, support, and resource them, providing practical tools, innovative ideas, and opportunities to partner with a global movement of people who are bringing life to their communities.

In this issue of Interact, you’ll read about how we are giving three chaplains the tools they need to serve in their different contexts. You can also read about how we’re partnering with youth organisations in Africa as they share the Bible with young people. And you can hear from Lifebringers as they share their stories. We also have news about Lifebringers on the road – we’d love to meet you at various events in person and online.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we join together as Lifebringers.

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Toolbox for Ministry Words Jess Bee and Clare Doughty

All over the world, chaplains are ministering in hospitals, schools, prisons, the armed forces, workplaces, and in the community.

They walk alongside people in life’s most vulnerable and significant moments, bringing light, comfort, and connection, wherever they’re called to serve.

Revd Matt

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Throughout its history, Lifewords has supported chaplains – from publishing a John’s Gospel for the armed forces in WW1, to the wide range of resources available today. These resources are designed to speak gently, wisely, and appropriately into people’s lives; chaplains talk about how they are part of their “toolbox”, a “secret weapon”, a “source of hope” – helping them reach out and support the people they serve.

“The resources that you provide are tools that we use to help people,” says Revd Matt. “A resource can work even when we’re not there – that for us is priceless

because we can’t be there 24/7.” Matt is a prison chaplain at HMP Humber, UK. The resources he shares with the young men he works with are very popular, they spark discussion and reflection.

“The lads want to know more,” says Matt. “And that’s exciting for me. I put a Little Brick of Little Books on the table and within minutes the books have all gone out to different cells. Different lads are then having conversations with each other about what a booklet means to them, how they engage with it, how they use it. There was a group of lads meeting in one of those cells and having a prayer time. … Without the resources that

you guys give us in prison, we wouldn’t see the difference in the men’s lives and in the staff’s lives.”

OPENING UP CONVERSATION For Anne-Marie, a hospital chaplain in Australia, Lifewords resources are a key part of her ministry. In the quiet corners of hospital wards, where fear, pain, and uncertainty often linger, Anne-Marie offers peace. She spends most of her time sitting with patients – many in palliative care – offering a listening ear, a gentle prayer, and moments of comfort. But her visits don’t end with kind words alone. “I don’t want to just say a prayer and walk away,” says Anne-Marie. “Lifewords booklets let me leave something behind – something meaningful, something hopeful. These little books

are my secret weapon. They bring hope and peace in a time of anxiety and turmoil.”

Daily Strength is one of her go-to resources. Whether she reads it aloud or places one quietly on a bedside table, these booklets often open up conversations. Patients ask for prayer. Some want to talk about Jesus. And many take that quiet step of faith – right there in their hospital bed.

COMFORT AND REASSURANCE Melissa, a mental health chaplain, supports individuals who are experiencing crisis and acute mental health struggles, bringing comfort to those for whom life can be very hard. Lifewords booklets offer a source of hope to those she works with. “An admission to an acute mental health ward can create questions that both challenge faith and

Anne-Marie

“A resource can work even when we’re not there”

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“These little books bring hope and peace in a time of anxiety and turmoil”

create opportunities to reflect on where hope can be found,” she explains. “These resources provide bite-sized comfort and reassurance for our patients, and are good talking points about faith and spirituality within their recovery. They are accessible at a time when people may feel too overwhelmed or confused to engage with longer texts. They allow individuals to engage at whatever level they are able to and are perfectly aimed for those of our patients who are seeking a deeper meaning to life. These booklets bring an amazing sense of comfort to our patients,” she says. “They encourage people in their faith when life feels hard and they are distanced from home and all that is familiar.

We struggle to keep up with the demand as one person tells another how valuable they have found them.”

A RIPPLE EFFECT Many chaplains, volunteers and pastoral workers face small budgets and yet a significant 6

need for resources. Lifewords supporters are able to help chaplains like Matt, Anne-Marie and Melissa get the resources they need through giving and through the Pay it Forward model. “The ripple effect of your generosity would far outreach your imagination,” says Melissa.

“Our patients will return to their communities with the knowledge that hospital is not the end of their journey but a small part, and that God did not leave them alone at a time when they felt the most vulnerable.”

For Matt, Anne-Marie and Melissa, Lifewords resources are an integral part of what they can offer the people they serve.

“My role is just facilitating people to engage with God in a way that they feel comfortable with, and in a way that they can understand,” says Matt. “Having resources available enables me to do that.”

Visit lifewords.global to find out more about Lifewords work with chaplains and how you can support their work.

Are you a chaplain or volunteer?

SHARE THE JOURNEY Lifewords fosters connection between Lifebringers – learning from each other and supporting one another. Get in touch – we’d love to hear how you’re using Scripture and to explore ways we can walk with you in your chaplaincy work. lifewords.global/lifebringers

HELP BRING LIFE TO OTHERS Your chaplaincy is a gift and so is your generosity. Donations help us provide resources for frontline ministry in prisons, hospitals, schools, and communities – where cost shouldn’t be a barrier to hope and comfort. lifewords.global/donate

TELL US YOUR STORY Take our 10-minute Lifebringers survey: “Sharing the Bible in real life”. We’d love to hear how chaplains like you are sharing the Bible in your setting – what’s helpful, what’s missing, and what more do you need. lifewords.global/lifebringers-survey

PRAY Give thanks for Matt, Anne-Marie and Melissa, and for the work they do with those in prison and hospital.

Praise God for how Lifewords resources are a key tool for chaplains as they minister to others.

Pray for meaningful conversations and transformed lives as chaplains serve others.

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world NEWS Supporting

In June, Lifewords launched a new website to showcase its resources, plus offer practical tools and fresh ideas to support and inspire Lifebringers around the world. It’s also a place where people can share their stories – from remote pastors to young Bible study leaders and digital content creators, every Lifebringer has a story. The website also has dedicated hubs for churches, chaplains, and youth workers. People can browse and order Lifewords resources, and then have the opportunity to Pay it Forward to support those who cannot afford to contribute. Visit lifewords.global to explore the site and see what’s new.

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Earlier this year, Lifewords launched Love in Many Languages, a compact booklet featuring the gospel message in 50 major world languages, reflecting a commitment to accessible, multilingual Scripture engagement for diverse contexts.

Within 24 hours of release, the Lifewords office in Poland received orders from 13 countries, many from global cities. Due to overwhelming demand, order limits had to be implemented – even so, 30% of stock was distributed within the first day. One recipient of Love in Many Languages shared: “What a very attractive little booklet. I have just ordered 50 copies for the rack at the back of our church. We are in a historic building and have visitors from all over the world.”

50 30% 13 24

languages of stock distributed in the first day

AI-generated images have been used in this resource to celebrate cultural diversity, without depicting real individuals.

Love in Many Languages

Orders received from

countries in

hrs

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Building Partnerships Words Jess Bee

“One of the most impactful breakthroughs in our journey has been our partnership with Lifewords, a ministry that shares our passion for reaching children, youth, and families with God’s Word.”

“I pray that these books will help more children and young people to experience God”

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These words are from James Ojambo, CEO of Spiritual Nurture International (SNI) in Uganda, whose mission is to transform lives through childfocused faith, development, and advocacy. James explains: “Three years ago, after a long period of prayer and searching, I came across Lifewords online.

I submitted a simple request for literature. To my joy, a package arrived 28 days later from Poland! It contained just a few booklets, but the excitement it sparked in our team was immeasurable.

I immediately used the materials in my local church and shared them with our SNI team members. For several months, we received small but consistent shipments.

However, we soon realised that the need was far greater than the supply.”

A DREAM REALISED “We spoke to Lifewords Kenya,” says James, “and through this collaboration, we received 1,000 resources which were distributed through school outreach, children’s camps, and discipleship programmes.”

Lifewords materials are now at the heart of SNI’s Child Spiritual Nurture Project, enabling outreach through clubs in schools, Sunday school training in churches, and in village-based child development and participation centres (spaces that offer care to children with additional needs).

ENCOUNTERING GOD Since 2018, Kingdom Connect has been using Lifewords resources to share good news in Kenyan schools and to facilitate RISE Bible clubs.

“Engaging students through RISE Bible clubs has been an amazing way of encouraging young people to share their faith,” says Clara Ngobolia, Lifewords Kenya Director.

“Many young people receive emotional support and build close friendships; they share their faith and lives with each other, and study and discover the Bible together – this leads to life transformation as some of them encounter God for the first time.”

“I have learnt that God can change and take burdens away from me,” says Noel, one of the students. “I also learnt that through prayer, God can help me through every situation.

I pray that these books will help more children and young people to experience God.” “Our partnership with Lifewords has tremendously impacted many young people,” says Tom Norald from Kingdom Connect. “The testimonies are abundant, and we give God all the glory. We have reshaped a community known for gang activities into a transformed society.”

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE SNI wants to do so much more and has plans to provide Bibles and audio Scripture to teachers and pastors in rural Uganda; to support vulnerable families with practical help and school essentials; and to train and send local missionaries to establish children’s ministries, plant churches, and lead community transformation.

“We are deeply grateful to Lifewords for their generosity,” says James. “We look forward to expanded collaboration, including the translation of materials into local Ugandan languages.

Together, we are changing lives with God’s Word.”

“We have reshaped a community known for gang activities into a transformed society”

PRAY Give thanks for SNI and Kingdom Connect, and for the work they do with young people.

Pray that reading the Bible would continue to have an impact on young people and how they interact with the world.

Pray for James, Tom, and other leaders – pray for vision, strength and resilience as they serve God. 11

voices Words Jess Bee

In June this year, Lifewords launched Lifebringers – a way of collaborating, resourcing, and sharing the Bible.

Lifebringers are church leaders, chaplains, youth workers, volunteers, or those simply trying to live out their faith dayto-day. All over the world Lifebringers are sharing Lifewords resources, offering people a new perspective and a new hope.

Ruthmari Bermúdez, missionary and children’s worker, Venezuela

“Pavement Project resources have been truly important in the impact the counselling has had on the children.

Seeing them identify with each image, story, and verse is wonderful. It has helped in the spiritual growth of many of us and our children, it has helped unite many of our families, and it has helped open up new opportunities in many lives.

“God has brought a tool to my country to help many people.

Having the opportunity to be used by God, to have greater knowledge to address children’s traumas and difficulties, is a relief and a response to the cries of the Venezuelan people. Pavement Project has opened our vision of the comprehensive help we should provide to children and their families.”

“The young men and women I work with struggle to believe their lives could look any different, but God’s Word speaks of reconciliation, forgiveness, and a future. They don’t have much, but they hold onto these booklets. For many, it’s the first step in realising that God hasn’t given up on them – that there’s a new invitation for their life.”

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Mark, juvenile detention centre chaplain, Australia

“We wanted to give the young people something real – something they could take home and reflect on, but a full Bible is expensive and can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out. These booklets help us lead young people to Christ – and then stay connected in the days that follow. It’s amazing to have these.”

“Lifewords booklets have become my go-to resources.

The language is accessible, and their thoughtful design invites reflection, rather than demanding answers. It means a lot to know we’re not alone in this calling to bring God’s life, light, and love into the everyday moments of people’s lives.”

Matt Nash, spiritual director, USA

Jesse, youth worker and youth outreach event organiser, Australia

Revd Tim Yau, rural dean, UK

“I cannot speak more highly about the Ninefold Path material and the NINE BEATS music and content that have transformed our community.

We mostly have people that have either no church background or lack of a spiritual foundation, and they resonate with the songs, the practices, and the invitation to live the beatitudes in their everyday lives. This material has been a game changer for the community.”

Tell us how you’re being a Lifebringer where you are. We love to hear how you are sharing our resources as part of your ministry or with your friends, families, colleagues, and communities.

TAKE OUR SURVEY Your story matters! We’re inviting churches, leaders, and everyday Bible-sharers to help shape the future of Bible resources.

Your insights will guide how we support and resource your work and ministry. Let’s collaborate on making resources that really fit your contexts and ministries – lifewords.global/lifebringers-survey.

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GET INVOLVED LIFEWO R DS A ND YOU

Lifebringers on the Road

VISITING YOUR CHURCH We’d love to come and talk to your congregation. Email us at uk@lifewords.global or call the office on 020 7730 2155.

This autumn we’re on the road and online with Lifebringers – visiting churches, participating in events, and hosting an online workshop.

CRE: 15 & 16 October Sandown Park, Esher, Surrey, UK We’re bringing Lifebringers to the Christian Resources Exhibition in October. Visit us on the stand, and come and listen to our talk: Lifewords ... for the Lifebringers: 10 FRESH IDEAS FOR SHARING THE BIBLE Weds 15th Oct, 11.40-11.55

In Talks Area 4

Scan the QR code for free tickets to the Christian Resources Exhibition eventdata.uk/Comp/CRE2025. aspx?TrackingCode=LIFEWORDS 14

“The transformation I’ve seen after people have read your resources is phenomenal.

They have literally saved lives.”

And visit us at

Stand C2

R e v d M AT T HMP Humber

We have lots of other events planned – scan the QR code or visit lifewords.global/ lifebringers/events to find out more and for the latest information and dates.

Sharing the Story this Christmas

CONTACT US Get in touch with the Lifewords global family. Find us online at www.lifewords.global, or contact your local office.

We have a range of Christmas resources to help you engage with the Bible’s story in accessible and meaningful ways. Each one explores the story at the heart of Christmas and is designed to invite readers – whether familiar with the Bible or exploring it for the first time – into its life-changing words. How will you share the Bible this Christmas?

AUSTRALIA australia@lifewords.global

BRAZIL brasil@lifewords.global

Visit lifewords.global/resources to find out more and order resources.

CANADA +1 905 683 6482 info@sgmcanada.ca

“One lad in particular got a Christmas resource, and because of what he read, he not only sorted his life out, but realised that he had a gift of Jesus for Christmas. After leaving prison he went to rehab, spent some time in recovery, and is now part of an active church and doing really well.”

KENYA +254 20 2730100 kenya@lifewords.global

INDONESIA +62 81294210986 indonesia@lifewords.global

Revd Matt Martinson, chaplain, HMP Humber

INDIA

“We gave out Little Book of Advent to everyone who attended our church Christmas market and Advent family service. People were surprised to get a free gift and took them gratefully. It’s great to be able to give Scripture to people in an accessible and attractive form.”

india@lifewords.global

POLAND europe@lifewords.global

UK & INTERNATIONAL OFFICE

Kat Gregory-Witham, St Matthew’s Church, Burnley

+44 (0) 20 7730 2155 uk@lifewords.global

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