Tim Harrold
A small team of intrepid Transformation Thurrock Firestarters ministered to many people at the Big Lunch event held in Grays Park on Wednesday 29 July 2015.
The park was packed with people from all backgrounds and ages. The main grassed area was ringed by stalls and attractions, and a stage at the town end hosted a constant stream of entertainment from local singing and dance groups.
Following on from its success at Village Beach earlier in the month, the TT stall focused mainly on doing ‘spiritual readings’.
Many people, attracted by the word spiritual and desiring to learn more about their own destiny, came to the stall, picked out a picture from a set of cards laid out on the table. They then received an interpretation of that picture from team members.
It was clearly explained to every participant that the team were Christians representing local churches, that they were asking the Holy Spirit what God had to say to them.
Some of the results were incredibly accurate and folk were affected emotionally on many levels. It’s estimated that some 50 people were ministered to.
Christian literature suitable for all ages and DVDs were also handed out free of charge.
During the afternoon, the team was joined by Alan Cass from North Kent Community Church, who had previously led the Firestarter training events held in April, May and June. He and Tim Harrold were able to visit the Grays Park Mosque which was open for the afternoon where they enjoyed a conversation with the Imam and two prominent Moslem representatives: one if the mosque’s secretary and proprietor of the excellent Shampaan restaurant in London Road, West Thurrock; the other a member of Thurrock Faith Matters.
Thurrock’s Mayoress, Cllr Sue Gray, came by at one point and enjoyed a big hug with each one of us.
Andy Blakey also had a stall at the Big Lunch representing the Big Local community initiative for Grays Riverside.
On the other side of the park, Pastor Niyi Olujobi and an enthusiastic team from House of Praise, Grays, were spreading some ‘united love’.
Grace Church (formerly Salisbury Road Baptist Church, Grays,) also had a stall.
Thanks go to Jan Blakey (All Saints TCF, Grays), Claire Ruff (St John’s, Victoria Avenue), and Vera Harrold for their excellent support throughout the afternoon.
