YWAM having a lark at the Ark in the Park
31/08/2012
On 21st July 9 young people from ‘Youth With a Mission’ (YWAM) arrived at St Aidan’s Church, Brunton Park (Newcastle) for their week of mission: five Norwegians, two Americans and their leaders, a married couple from Holland & Germany.
This ad-hoc group were an older team of leaders in training and were given a full programme of opportunities to share the mission of St Aidan’s church and The Ark in the Park project on the Great Park.
The first weekend was dedicated to getting to know the British culture, the people and the area: they joined with in a ‘family friendly service’, a community picnic, and a guided walk around the Parish, all topped off with fish & chips. The highlight of Sunday evening was a buzzing “Plus Factor” Concert featuring the talents of local youngsters: Christian rapper Johnny Mattimore, songstress Emma Clinch, amongst others, and introducing our talented Norwegians, all by MC’d by Sean Lees-Smith.
During the week the group enjoyed helping out with “Holiday Zone” challenges meeting and befriending local youth and “Champions Challenge” - where they sang, told stories and helped young children with crafts & games.
The afternoons were spent on Community work: litter-picking, gardening, visiting and entertaining the old folks and collecting for St Oswald’s Hospice.
Teams of ladies from the congregation prepared sumptuous meals each evening before the YWAM team were involved in social events, introducing them to the delights of a Beetle Drive, film & quiz nights and a barbecue at the Scout Hut bringing together the whole community.
The week was concluded by a big screen Olympic opening night in church followed by an energetic Olympic sports day on Newcastle’s Great Park. At their last Sunday service the YWAM team shared their testimonies, prayers and musical talents.
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