FIRE IN OUR HEARTS
COMMUNICATE!
Darren also left home in unhappy circumstances at 13. After four years living on the streets in Ireland and in London, Darren staggered onto our Jesus coach at Trafalgar Square, drunk and abusive. He wept his way to God. His friend Trev, who’d slept in shop doorways and squats, begging and mugging for a living, saw the change in ‘Daz’ and joined him up at New Creation Farm. These strong characterful men responded to fathers in God. But many of us old-timers needed healing too. A true leader was warm-hearted, patient and loving. Rigidity and legalism was a curse. We’d learned that. Relaxed flow was where it was at. When we allowed God to love us and heal us, we gladly shed our hard ‘Christian’ skins and began to win hearts. So many were searching. Not just new-agers but ordinary people who through hurt, heartache and distress longed for what was good. We wanted to accommodate ourselves to them, use any means, make a bridge, help them reach out to God. We aimed at being more user-friendly and informal in our gospel presentation. Sunday nights at Spinney Hall, Northampton, now included a snack and coffee bar in the foyer. With smiling welcomers, colourful resources, background music and lots of friends, a good scene was well on the go before the main programme started. When it did, our new friends were encouraged to relax and enjoy the atmosphere without feeling obliged to join in. The non-threatening approach attracted many who might avoid religious meetings. Invitations were to a:
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