Urban Saints. Ireland. Happy Birthday to us. Celebrating 100 years of Crusaders and Urban Saints in Ireland

Transcription

1 Celebrating 100 years of Crusaders and Urban Saints in Ireland Thankful for the past. Prayerful for the future. Urban Saints Ireland Happy Birthday 2. Timeline 3. History 4. Family 5. Holiday Happy Birthday to us 6. Centenary Ball 7. Support Urban Saints 8. Future Well, it s hard to believe that 100 years ago Crusaders started life in Ireland. What a century it s been! We invite you to journey with us in the special centenary magazine as we look back on what the last century has meant for Crusaders and Urban Saints in Ireland. Let us take this opportunity to thank you for your involvement in whatever way with Crusaders and Urban Saints in Ireland. We are truly grateful and honoured to have journeyed with you in discipling and equipping young people all over Ireland to take the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every part of the world. God has been so good to us over the last century and we are filled with grateful and thankful hearts. As an organisation dedicated to the raising up and discipling of young Christians we couldn t be more thankful for where we have come from and where we are now but we are excited and expectant for what God has ahead of us. Jesus hasn t returned yet and there is still a world in desperate need of him. As Urban Saints Ireland we are on a mission. Inside we ve gathered stories and pictures - old and new - so we hope you enjoy the read and here s to the next 100 years! God bless you.

2 Timeline The first Crusader group meets in Dublin. This group was established and led by R. N. Montgomery. The first Crusader group in Northern Ireland is established. Located in Belfast, it was led by Dick Paisley and FSA Andrews. T. S. Mooney forms Crusaders Londonderry, our longest serving active group today. The first Crusaders camp is held in Castlerock. This acted as the precursor to our other holidays, camps and houseparties - which are still running today. Crusaders in Bangor is started by J.C. Taylor. Edmund Grieves founds a group in Lisburn. Both Belfast North and Belfast Malone begin over a two year period. As World War II begins Crusaders impact within Ireland has been far and wide reaching thousands of young people of Christ Following the end of the war a new Crusaders group is formed in Coleraine under the leadership of Ronnie McPherson. New groups begin in Holywood for boys and girls. During this decade it has been noted that many of the groups were now led by the youth who had once come through its ranks, a testimony to all involved. Zonya Bewick is appointed as the first full time Director within Urban Saints Ireland. She holds the post until 2001 when Gareth Gilchrist succeded her until Wilson Beare came into post in 2008 and continues to faithfully lead us today. The 3:18 Project is established. Working and serving in West Belfast on an annual basis alongside Youth Initiatives. The 3:18 Collective is launched. Transforming the annual work of the summer project into a day to day reality for our groups through Ireland. 2

3 History Crusaders and Urban Saints have changed a lot in the last century however our core values of fun, faith, friendship and full lives have not. Here, Peter and Rachel Sinton share some memories of earlier days in Crusaders and how things have changed. Sweet tooth in Tullylish Attendees at Porn Scars Conference, 2013 Peace was scarce in early 20th Century Ireland, with the political and social environment of the country in turmoil and tensions running high. In 1914 not only was the beginning of the First World War looming but Ireland was also facing its own problems in the form of the Home Rule crisis. This meant a division between communities which no doubt had a negative effect on everyone in Ireland, including the youth at the time. However, it was amidst this conflict and despair that the first Crusaders group was established on the Emerald Isle, becoming a beacon of hope and a place of solace for young people who were struggling through the darkness of the situation around them at the time. Peter and Rachel Stinton help lead our group in Tullylish. This group was formed under the Rector Robert Miller. Having come through the ranks of Crusaders in Derry/Londonderry as a boy Robert had started a group in Shankill Parish, before he continued the tradition in Tullylish. Building on a strong tradition of youth discipleship Crusaders was the perfect evolution. The first few meetings would be not very structured, with mostly fun and games and a short epilogue, and while it meant that it was a little chaotic it was also an awful lot of fun! More structured meetings began in January With the introduction of Energize we were equipped with a whole new set of resources and materials to deliver and address issues that our young people were facing. It is our hope that Urban Saints will continue to grow and develop groups throughout the country discipling young Christians. Fun on the beach Girls Group Nothing like a walk in the rain Arrrrr! Don t come too close Steven 3

4 Family Urban Saints would not be what it is today without our groups. They act as family to so many, nurturing and discipling. Here Chloe Moffatt interviews David Francis about the group he leads in Newtownards. Chloe Moffatt Back in the day On mission in Crusoe, 2008 Signing up Champions! Looks like trouble CM: How did Crusaders begin in Newtownards? DF: It was a joint effort. Robert Larke and myself had been working together on the Camps & Houseparties Committee and I had recently moved to Newtownards so we decided to start a group as we lived nearby. As far as I can remember the first meeting was held in mid September 1988 following a year of prayer, preparation and publicity. CM: Can you remember what that first meeting was like? DF: I can remember wondering who would turn up! Those who came were keen young Christians from the local churches and there was a good atmosphere. I remember being excited and feeling that this was a real stepping out in to the unknown. We re so thankful that it s stood the test of time and is still making a lasting impact in our community. CM: Why do you think Urban Saints is a valuable organisation in terms of discipling young people? DF: Urban Saints has always placed an emphasis on its old Crusader Motto Looking onto Jesus and this has been the source of its strength. Leaders understand that discipleship is at the core of what they do; it s not just about evangelism or activity. CM: What are your hopes for the future of Urban Saints? DF: Times and youth culture are definitely changing but I feel the principles which define Urban Saints will remain strong and provide the foundation for the future. My hope would be that we would continue to impact the lives of young people with the love of Jesus helping them to realise their need of the Saviour. Ready for combat Radical generosity Ballycastle, 2005 We ve found some pictures from the last century of Crusaders and Urban Saints. If you have any you d like to share upload them on social media using #UrbanSaints100 4

5 Holidays Our camps, holidays and house parties have played a vital part in our story. Here Graham Jewhurst shares some of his memories from going and now leading camps. Graham Jewhurst Cranfield back in the day Cranfield, 2014 There are two types of people in this world: those who have experienced Urban Saints Holidays and those who haven t. I m fortunate enough to be in the first category. Crusader camps were an integral part of my growing up, both physically and spiritually and as an adult looking back I can see that Easter houseparties and summer camps shaped my Christian development. It s for that reason amongst many others that I m passionate about our holidays! Urban Saint s exists to help young people live lives of faith, hope and love through Jesus Christ and to release a movement of radical young people who will take the good news to every generation. We generally consider the most effective way to do this is through our groups on a weekly basis, which is of course invaluable. However, there is something special about spending an extended period of time with people that 1 hour a week can never achieve. So as a young person, spending 5-7 days in a Christian environment can change lives! They begin to understand that living for God is not just for an hour or two, but actually affects your whole life. They see leaders (their role-models) in a new light; analysing them at breakfast, in church, playing stupid games, on the football pitch, when they re excited, when they re wrecked! They see leaders giving up their time for them and hopefully through the week they experience a glimpse of God s love for them through the care and passion of the leaders surrounding them. Crusader holidays have been on the go for over 50 years and as part of our centenary celebrations we wish to honour the work that has been done by so many leaders over those years. So many lives changed for Christ and there is no doubt that God has truly blessed these holidays and used them time and again for His glory! We owe a massive debt to all the leaders who have given of their time and God-given talents over the years and pray God would continue to use our holidays in the future to further His kingdom. But with a centenary comes too the opportunity to look forward. Times are changing, faster for our young people than ever before. It is vital we stay relevant as an organisation and meet the needs of young people where they are. We ve recently set-up a Holidays Committee to review our work in this area and move it forward. Please pray for the team of main holiday leaders and for Andrew McManus and Wilson as they head up this important work. Pray for God s guidance and blessing, vision and courage as we consider the many challenges to offering a unique Christcentred Holidays programme. I always feel that Cranfield is a little foretaste of heaven with its unity, harmony, fun, growing faith and increased wonder at His goodness to us. As 1 Peter 2 says But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. Praise the Lord! Cranfield Leader Neil Killen,

6 Saturday 15th November 2014 Ramada Hotel Shaws Bridge Urban Saints Ireland Centenary Celebrations "In Ireland since 1914 helping young people live lives of Faith, Hope and Love through Jesus Christ" Urban Saints Ireland Centenary Celebrations "In Ireland since 1914 helping young people live lives of Faith, Hope and Love through Jesus Christ" Saturday 15th November 2014 Ramada Hotel Shaws Bridge Belfast Arrival: 7:00pm Price: 40 or why not book a table for Dress: Smart (suit or dress) This Is Our Life! We are so delighted to be celebrating 100 years the witness and ministry of Crusaders and latterly Urban Saints with children and young people throughout Ireland. Throughout the evening we will be opportunity to:- - Hear and see the difference Christ has made through the years of Ministry on this Island. - Meet up with old friends and meet new ones. - Hear from Matt Summerfield (Urban Saints CEO) about the plans for the future. - Enjoy our house band. - To purchase some great items in our auction including some great Crusaders items. There promises to be much laughter, entertainment, inspiration as we spend this evening together looking back and more importantly looking forward to all that God has in the coming 100 years. It is an evening not to be missed. For More Info and Bookings please ireland@urbansaints.org or call BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!! 6

7 This publication has reflected the number of people, prayers, time and effort that have made Crusaders and Urban Saints what it is today. We are forever thankful for all your help: practically, prayerfully and financially over the past century. We would not be where we are now without your continued help and we thank you for that. If you would like to contribute to the work of Urban Saints please consider supporting us prayerfully and financially. Below is a giving form which can be returned to Urban Saints, 23A Castle Lane, Lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT67 9BY. Or if you would prefer to give a one off gift please text URBAN IRELAND followed by the amount to For example: URBANIRELAND 10 Each text message costs the amount of the donation plus netowrk charge and Urban Saints receives 100% of the donation. I WOULD LIKE TO BECOME AN URBAN SAINTS SUPPORTER I WOULD LIKE TO BECOME AN URBAN SAINTS SUPPORTER Title Surname Address Post Code First Name We will send you news and updates about Urban Saints. I would prefer NOT to hear from you please DO NOT send me news I would like to pray regularly for Urban Saints we will send you prayer updates I would like to volunteer for Urban Saints in the following way Please note: Unless you specify otherwise in the box below, your regular gift will go towards the general work of Urban Saints. IRELAND SUPPORT Phone How did you get introduced to Urban Saints please let us know the name of the person, event or otherwise? Thanks. I would like to set up a direct debit of Instruction to your Bank or Building Society to pay by Direct Debit Name(s) of Account Holder(s) Bank/Building Society account Number Branch Sort Code Name and full postal address of your Bank or Building Society To: The Manager Address: Other Monthly quarterly or annually (please tick as appropriate) Bank or Building Society I would like to make a one-off gift of Postcode I wish to give by cheque (payable to Urban Saints) or debit my credit / debit card: Originator s Identification Number Reference Number For Office use only Date of Birth D D / M M / Y Y Instruction to your Bank or Building Society Please pay Urban Saints Direct Debits from the account detailed in this Instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this Instruction may remain with Urban Saints and, if so, details will be passed electronically to my Bank/Building Society. Signature(s) Card Number: Start date: Expiry date: Issue No: Security Code: Date Banks and Building Societies may not accept Direct Debit Instructions for some types of account (Shaded boxes Maestro only) Signed: Date: D D / M M / Y Y To donate online, visit Gift Aid declaration for past, present & future donations Please treat as Gift Aid donations all qualifying gifts of money made today in the past 4 years in the future Make your gift to Urban Saints go further Please tick all boxes you wish to apply. I confirm I have paid or will pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax for each tax year (6 th April to 5 th April) that is at least equal to the amount of tax that all the charities that I donate to will reclaim on my gifts for that tax year. I understand that other taxes such as VAT and Council Tax do not qualify. I understand the charity will reclaim 28p of tax on every 1 that I gave up to 5 th April 2008 and will reclaim 25p of tax on every 1 that I give on or after 6 th April Notes: You can cancel this declaration at any time by notifying Urban Saints. If in the future your circumstances change and you no longer pay tax on your income and capital gains equal to the tax that the charity reclaims, you can cancel your declaration. Please notify Urban Saints if you change your name or address. Donor s signature: Date: D D / M M / Y Y 7

8 Future Wilson Beare, Director for Urban Saints Ireland, shares his dreams and vision for the next 100 years. Wilson Beare I have now been working with Urban Saints for 6 years and what a 6 years it has been. I have had the enormous privilege to meet and share with some amazing young people and leaders and been blown away by all God has been doing in their lives. On my travels I meet many people and again I am constantly amazed by the number of people who have a connection to Crusaders many who have gone on to serve the Lord in many ways in many different fields. I look back at 100 years in Ireland and give thanks for this legacy of faith. As I look forward I look forward with expectancy that we will see more and see even greater things that the next generation will go further than we have. Its my prayer that there is 100 more years of testimony of faith, boldness, transformation in lives and communities. We are so privileged to be serving more than 50 groups and churches across Ireland and we pray for more. A highlight to our calendar is always camps and as we look forward to the future we want to embrace and see these grow and reach more and more young people. Mission is at our heart and core and again it is our prayer that through our 3:18 Project and Collective we will see a generation rise up that don t view mission as seven days in the summer but that it is at the heart of all they do and see communities, schools, families and clubs transformed by Christ. Please join with me in giving thanks for 100 years but also be bold and expectant in our prayers that we will see even greater things in the future and all for the extension of His Kingdom and His Glory. Thank you for all you do, Wilson prays for young leaders Lift off? Group Worship Loving life! Every Blessing Wilson Ireland Director Urban Saints Pray with US Going forward we would love you to join with us in praying for Urban Saints Ireland. We believe God has strategically positioned us where we are to work and witness throughout Ireland and the world. Please pray for us as we continue to seek God s will for our work and ministry with children and young people. Thank you. 8