2

3

CONTENTSIntroduction 590 Years and counting... 7Long-term Mission Africa 9 Asia 17 Australia 18 Europe 18 South America 26 Sensitive areas 26Short-term Mission SMILE (under 30s) 27 NEXT (over 30s) 29Indigenous Mission BEST 32 Camps 34 Re:set 35 Ministry Apprentices 36 Projects 37 Schools of Biblical Training 39Partnership in Mission 40 Friends of Crosslinks 43 Membership 43General Council 44Staff 45What next? 46

4

This Yearbook provides a snapshot of the work taking place under the Crosslinks flag in many parts of the world, involving people working in a wide variety of cultures and contexts.

From its launch in 1922 the founders of BCMS adopted a phrase from a verse in the book of Revelation, applying it to all of their activities. The verse was Revelation 1:9, where the phrase ‘on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus’ caught their attention as a powerful summary of a gospel believer’s motivation. The whole sentence reads, ‘I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus’.

In this verse John describes his experience of serving God as being characterised by three complementary things:

‘tribulation’ caused by opposition and persecution; the kind of suffering that entailed the horrors of crucifixion for Jesus, and brought John into exile on a prison island in his old age.

the ‘kingdom of God’ that had been the focus of Jesus’ preaching and teaching, and was now the glorious hope proclaimed by John and his fellow Apostles.

‘patient endurance’ which, having been so wonderfully modelled by Christ, was now required of his Apostle.

John also understood that in all of this, he was not alone, but in partnership with other believers, called to walk in the footsteps of their Lord and Master on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. That same package deal (tribulation + the kingdom + patient endurance) is, of course, the common lot of believers today, and the descriptions of people and places found in this Yearbook make that plain. These are no super-heroes, but ordinary men and women engaged in the extraordinary work of bringing God’s word to God’s world.

As we read the details, and glimpse the scale of Crosslinks activities, it may be that we are prompted to serve God more courageously in our own situation. But as we do so, we can also play a vital role by praying for those in far-flung places, who face unfamiliar problems and challenges, opportunities and dangers on account of the word of God and the testimony about Jesus.

+

+

+

INTRODUCTION

5

6

It has been a fascinating exercise dipping into the early reports of the Society’s work in the Missionary Messenger, and the Annual Reports, as part of our 90th anniversary celebrations. In the report of early 1946 there is both considerable change and notable continuity.

The BCMS emerged from the Second World War with the re-opening of ‘fields’ in Burma, Western and Southern China and Ethiopia as well as the return of personnel to India, and the return of the Headquarters from Bristol to London. At the same time, as the Silver Jubilee approached, the Honorary Secretary, Dr Daniel Bartlett, whose name had been ‘interchangeable’ with BCMS for 23 years, handed over active leadership to AT Houghton.

Yet with all this change AT’s first challenge to the Society was of continuity; he reflected on the 400th anniversary of the death of Martin Luther and the great Reformation truth of justification by faith in Christ alone as the only way of salvation. Wesley later had come to the same realisation and, Houghton observed, ‘the agents of BCMS ... are confronted in every land with man-made attempts ...to do, to attain the goal by their own works, in their own strength, and by the accumulation of their own merit’: in East Africa’s ‘primitive animism’ by attempting to gain good fortune here and now; in India’s predominant Hinduism by forming good Karma; in China and Burma’s Buddhism by ‘man’s unaided effort’ to reach Nirvana; in the Islam of Morocco, Persia, India and elsewhere ‘Paradise is reached by human merit’. He remarked that from ‘the idealistic teaching of Confucius... down to the attainment of Utopia by means of the [new] United Nations Organisation’ all are infected by the same disease - ‘man’s supreme self-confidence and inability to see himself as a sinner, under condemnation, in the sight of a holy, righteous God... The aim of all our preaching... must be to humble the sinner and exalt the Saviour’.

There was then, and remains today, only one way of salvation, through the merits alone

of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Some things never change!

90 YEARS & COUNTING

Andy Lines Mission Director

7

LONG TERM MISSIONCrosslinks has Mission Partners & Associate Mission Partners (AMP) working in Africa, Europe, Asia, South America and Australia.Our priorities are front-line evangelism and the training of trainers. These priorities are exercised in a variety of contexts: church planting, student work, prison ministry, youth work,projects with vulnerable people of all ages and theological teaching in bible colleges.

8

AFRICA

ALUN AND DEBBIE BURTCape Town, South Africa Church-based youth work

St Thomas Church, Heideveld, partners with Arise to provide a church-based ministry that seeks first to proclaim God’s word to young people and then to offer practical help. Alun and Debbie were originally part of a short-term mission team to South Africa, but returned to St. Thomas and Arise as Crosslinks Mission Partners in 2008. Alun’s work now includes teaching the Bible in St Thomas Church and aiming to disciple young men in a community deeply affected by the legacy of Apartheid and stricken by drugs and gangsterism.Debbie is raising the profile of fostering and adoption in the local church, and supporting families that have already taken these steps.They have three children: Likhona, Ilana and Malachi.

SONIA CANDISHCape Town, South Africa Educational psychologist

Having worked in London as a primary school teacher and educational psychologist, Sonia has a thorough background in children’s education. Sonia worked initially with Arise in South Africa for two years through the NEXT programme and is now continuing longer term as a Mission Partner. She helps provide homework clubs for children struggling with basic skills, offers consultation support to teachers in local schools, and therapeutic support and prayer for children and parents in Heideveld. Sonia is also offering training, support and prayer for foster carers and adoptive parents in Cape Town.

RICK AND ALANNA CREIGHTONKagoro, Nigeria Theological education

Rick and Alanna arrived in Nigeria in July 2012. Rick is teaching at the ECWA (Evangelical Church of West Africa) Theological Seminary, Kagoro, Kadunda State, training pastors for local church ministry.Alanna’s focus is looking after the children and helping them adapt to the new culture. She would love to build strong relationships with staff and student families on the campus. She also hopes to continue working on a theology degree (correspondence) through London University.Rick and Alanna have three children: Asha, Conor and Jack.

9

BEN AND NAOMI DEANCape Town, South Africa Theological training (AMP)

Ben and Naomi Dean have been based in Cape Town since 2008.Ben is Dean of Postgraduate Studies at George Whitefield College in Muizenberg, a theological training college for REACH - Reformed Evangelical Church of South Africa (formerly CESA – Church of England in South Africa) and beyond. Ben and Naomi have four children: Jemimah, Gregory, Gabriel & Rocco.

RAYMOND AND JACKIE GIVANGoli, Uganda Healthcare and discipleship

Raymond and Jackie have been invited by the Bishop of Nebbi to work alongside the Church of Uganda at Goli in supporting the local medical work, discipling believers and in outreach work. Raymond is a practising GP with an MA in Theology and Jackie is a registered nurse. Having visited Goli on two occasions they have been involved in both medical work and outreach into the local community and prison. They see a great need to help strengthen the local church and to encourage the dedicated medical staff to deliver much needed basic healthcare in the area.

ANDY AND SUSIE HARKERNairobi, Kenya Bible teaching

In a context where motivational speaking is more common than the gospel of Christ, iServe Africa promotes faithful Christ-centred bible teaching and Christ-like servant leadership, largely through ministryapprenticeships. In May 2011 the Harkers moved to Nairobi to serve with iServe Africa. Andy’s main work is developing training curricula and courses, mentoring apprentices, teaching on the quarterly ministry training weeks and building links with like-minded ministries across Africa. Susie is a full-time mum. They have three children: Bethan, Jacob and Hannah.

JOSH AND CATHY HOOKERNamibiaTheological education

Josh and Cathy have been working in Southern Africa since 2005: Josh in theological education and Cathy in hospitality and family care.Josh is the Vice Principal of Namibia Evangelical Theological Seminary (NETS), the only tertiary level evangelical training institution in Namibia.It exists to equip Christians for ministry in Namibia and beyond. Cathy is a qualified primary school teacher and has been involved in promoting a biblical studies curriculum for Namibian Schools. She also runs a small bookstall for the NETS staff and students and organises a weekly prayer meeting at the local Anglican primary school.They have three children: Benjamin, Erin and Matthew.

10

JEM HOVILCape Town, South Africa Church leadership development (AMP)

Before Jem moved to Muizenberg, Cape Town in 2007, he served as an AMP in Uganda for eight years. Jem now works with local partners, mainly in East and Southern Africa, to strengthen churches at the grassroots through local church leadership development. His current focus is the non-formal BUILD programme (Biblical Understanding for In-service Leadership Development), which was developed in partnership with the Church of Uganda but is now used by other churches. Locally Jem helps lead Muizenberg Community Church. He and his family expect to relocate to the UK in mid-2013.

CHRIS AND ROS HOWLESKampala, Uganda Theological teaching

Chris and Ros are working full-time at Uganda Martyr’s Seminary, Namugongo, Kampala, an Anglican theological training institution training men and women for ordained gospel ministry in the Anglican Church of Uganda. Chris is teaching systematic theology, New Testament, mission and practical theology courses. Ros is involved in pastoral care of female students and is a full-time mum. Chris and Ros also work as Sunday School co-ordinators in their local parish church. Chris and Ros have two children: Josh and Daniel.

ROB AND SUE MARTINMarsabit, Kenya Church leadership

Rob and Sue have been based in Marsabit, Northern Kenya, since 2008, where Rob is Bishop of the newly inaugurated Diocese of Marsabit. The region is remote, desert-like, prone to droughts and tribal clashes. Crosslinks Mission Partners from 1978—1987, Rob was Diocesan Accountant for the huge Diocese of Mt. Kenya East (including the present Diocese of Marsabit), and Sue was a nurse, teaching first aid and offering hospitality. From 1988-1991 Rob trained for ordination and served in Bristol, then as Vicar of Holy Trinity, Frome, from 1995-2008.

SIHLE AND GIGI MOOISoweto, South AfricaChurch leadership(AMP)

Sihle comes from Soweto, South Africa. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Theology from George Whitefield College, Cape Town. Sihle came to England in 2005 for two years to study on the Cornhill Training Course and to be an apprentice with Crosslinks. Sihle has been leading a church plant in Soweto since 2008. He married Gigi in 2010.

11

NERENA NEATHERCOATDurban, South AfricaStudent discipleship(AMP)

Nerena Neathercoat is working in Durban, KwaZulu Natal. She is involved with teaching the Bible to students at the local universities by helping with the women’s work and weekly talks, bible studies and Sunday services. Each Wednesday, a local training course is run for anyone in the region interested in learning and teaching God’s word and Nerena helps with this.

GLENN AND LIZZY NESBITTJohannesburg, South AfricaTeaching theology(AMP)

Glenn and Lizzy have lived in Johannesburg since October 2008. Glenn lectures at both the Auckland Park and Soweto campuses of the Johannesburg Bible College (JBC) while Lizzy teaches Latin part-time at a local high school. They have two children: Joseph and Zoë. Their dogs, Ginger and Jaiva, joined them from a rescue home in May 2009.

JAKI NORTHCape Town, South AfricaStudying theology(AMP)

After spending a year studying for a Certificate in Theology at George Whitefield College (GWC), Jaki will be working with homeless women in South Africa from January 2014.Previously, Jaki volunteered at U-turn Homeless Ministries as a field worker and realised the real need for discipleship amongst the women attending their regular bible studies. This includes creating an environment in which vulnerable women can live out their faith, combined with holistic support from local organisations and churches.

Crosslinks is on Facebook & Twitter!

'Like' or 'follow' us for news, updates

and prayer requests

facebook.com/bcmsCrosslinks

twitter.com/bcmsCrosslinks

12

NOJ AND MARY NORTHWAYTuri, KenyaEducation

St Andrews School, Turi, is an international multicultural Christian boarding school with a vision to train future leaders. As well as being a centre of academic excellence and all-round education, it is a place where students are nurtured to grow in their faith and to live for Christ.Noj is the bursar, responsible for the finances and development of the School, and is part of the School Management team.Mary is the School Doctor, running clinics for students, staff and their families, and overseeing the team of nurses. She also teaches IGCSE Biology at the Senior School.Noj and Mary live fully immersed in the community life of the School. They have two children: Joe and Sam.

GAD AND LIZ NUMADILomé , TogoChildren’s ministry

Gad and Liz Numadi have been living in, the French speaking capital city of Togo, West Africa since January 2010. Gad is leading a team to train pastors and children’s workers in children’s ministry: generally the established churches have not been able to provide much in the way of ministry for children, but the need is now more recognised and churches are keen for help. Alongside this, Liz is sharing God’s word and supporting vulnerable children in prison or with disabilities. Gad and Liz have two children: Corban and Lael.

GILL AND CARLOS OLAAKAKampala, UgandaSupporting street children(AMP)

Gill works for Abaana and Frontline. Both are Christian ministries helping vulnerable children, including street boys, giving hope and a future to those excluded, abandoned, or in abject poverty. Abaana’s activities include sponsoring children, building schools, as well as supporting former street boys through the New Life Homes. Gill’s role in both these ministries is to look at strategy, policy and governance. Abaana and Frontline both focus on the importance of spiritual transformation, always pointing children to the need to know Jesus, using the Bible as the cornerstone for all activity.Carlos and Gill are active members of Calvary Chapel Kampala, involved in co-ordinating the Married Fellowship; Carlos on the prayer team and Gill involved in choir and attending a women’s bible study.Carlos and Gill have one child: Josiah.

13

THORSTEN AND KERSTIN PRILLWindhoek, NamibiaTheological teaching

Thorsten lectures in systematic theology, practical theology and mis-sion studies at Namibia Evangelical Theological Seminary (NETS). In addition, he is responsible for the practical ministry involvement of NETS students. Kerstin serves as the NETS Administrator. Thorsten and Kerstin are also involved in a local church in Windhoek: Thorsten as an Associate Pastor and Kerstin in a ministry to women.Before coming to Namibia Thorsten was pastor of two churches in the East Midlands and International Chaplain at the University ofNottingham. Kerstin worked in administration for a mission organisation, a Christian relief and development agency, University of Nottingham and the NHS.

CHARLES AND GILLIAN RAVENNairobi, KenyaTheological education(AMP)

Charles and Gillian live in Nairobi where Charles serves as Archbishop Eliud Wabukala’s Officer for Anglican Communion Affairs. The Archbishop is Chairman of the Global Fellowship of Confessing Anglicans (GAFCON) and its Primates’ Council.Theological education is a major part of Charles’ role. Based at St Julian’s, a conference and retreat centre near Nairobi, the vision is to establish a strategic venue for senior leaders in Kenya, the Great Lakes region and the wider Communion. As well as contributing to the pro-grammes at St Julian’s, Gillian hopes to find opportunities to use her experience as an Environmental Educationalist.

GILES AND ANNIE ROBERTSTuri, KenyaEducation

St Andrew’s School, Turi, is an international, multicultural Christian boarding school with a vision to train future leaders. It aims to provide a happy, stimulating, well-rounded Christian educational experience for children from a wide range of backgrounds.Giles is the School Development Manager. He has overseen the design and construction of various major building projects including a sixth form centre, boarding houses, staff houses and a large sports centre. Annie is the Admissions Registrar at the Prep School. She guides families through the admissions process from first enquiry to first day at school.Giles and Annie have two children: Thomas (Tom) and Jake. The family expect to return to the UK in summer 2013.

14

LUCY SAWYERCape Town, South AfricaClinical work and family support

A clinical psychologist, specialising in working with children and families, Lucy has many years experience working with adolescents with severe behavioural, psychological and emotional needs, and with their families.She is able to combine this with an individual and family prayer ministry within the Heideveld community; consultation, psychological and prayer support to local teachers; and awareness-raising amongst local churches regarding the needs of children in care.

NAT AND HELEN SCHLUTERJohannesburg, South AfricaBible teaching(AMP)

Johannesburg is a thriving global city; it is in one of the wealthiest regions in Africa, but also one of the most violent. It is a city of extremes, but according to Nat and Helen a great place to live and minister.Nat and Helen were invited to set up the Johannesburg Bible College (JBC) in 2005 and run one-year courses to equip men and women for bible teaching ministry. The courses run in Johannesburg, Soweto and Zandspruit (an informal settlement), and there are growing opportunities to facilitate similar courses across Southern Africa.They have four children: Miriam, Christopher, Bethany and Isaac.

KAREN SALMONMekelle, EthiopiaCommunity health

Karen has worked with Crosslinks in Ethiopia since 1993 and is currently working in the north-west of Ethiopia in Mekelle. She is teaching community health evangelism, Christian leadership, Christian counselling, research methodology, and development studies in a local theological college. Karen is also helping with a women’s ministry for those recovering from fistula surgery and being trained as Safe Motherhood Ambassadors.

Check out our photo galleries at

www.crosslinks.org

15

ALISON TALBERTKilifi, TanzaniaMedical research

Kilifi is a town of 40,000 people on the coast of Kenya. Alison works at the Kenya Medical Research Institute/Wellcome Trust research programme based at Kilifi District Hospital. She works as a doctor, researching prevention and treatment of malnutrition in children.As a practising Christian Alison encourages scientific colleagues to ask questions about ethics and faith, and aims to demonstrate Christ’s love in her interactions with patients, carers and staff. She is an active member of a work-based bible study group and involved in local grassroots organisations: a Methodist women’s project supporting orphans to stay at home with their extended families and a school sponsorship programme for poor children.

BEN WILLIAMSONJohannesburg, South AfricaStudent ministry

Ben initially went to the Johannesburg Bible College (JBC) in 2010 on a two month SMILE placement. Later that year he returned to JBC, where he worked until January 2013. Now he is involved in the work at Christ Church Hillbrow, helping Bishop Edwin Ngubane (REACH-SA) rebuild the gospel witness in the area.There is an affluent region right next to Hillbrow; student residences within walking distance from the church; and the business district is not far. Christ Church has the potential to be a light in all these areas proclaiming the gospel that people might come to know and love the Lord Jesus.

CRAIG AND CLAUDIA SMITHKabale, UgandaTeacher training

Craig and Claudia work at the National Teachers College in Kabale, Uganda. Craig is training secondary school teachers and Claudia has set up a counselling service at the college. They both work with the local church and college chapel.Claudia trains Sunday School teachers through the diocese and has written a Sunday School curriculum, which is being translated into the local language.In 2009, they set up Bakiga Community Project which works to improve access to safe water and bibles for local communities. Now registered as an NGO, the project has developed a tourist lodge in Bwindi Forest to provide a sustainable income for its work. Craig and Claudia have two children: Leo and Bethany. The family return to the UK in summer 2013.

16

ASIA

TIM AND JULIE EADYBangkok, ThailandChurch ministry(AMP)

Tim and Julie Eady moved to Thailand in the autumn of 2012 to share in the growing ministry of Christ Church, Bangkok. Tim is Associate Minister and Julie supports Tim in his work. Julie is also using her own creative gifts within the varied charitable work carried out through Christ Church. They are very excited to be sharing in a gospel ministry with the potential to reach people from many different national backgrounds.

NEIL AND DEBBIE WATKINSONPine Grove, SingaporeChurch leadership / SBT

Neil and Debbie moved to Singapore in November 2008 for Debbie to take up a post as a consultant in palliative medicine at the National Cancer Centre in Singapore (part of Singapore General Hospital). Being located in Singapore provides a useful base for Neil’s work co-ordinating Schools of Biblical Training for Crosslinks in south-east Asia. He is also on the pastoral team of an Anglican Church in Singapore.Neil and Debbie come from Maidenhead where Neil was curate at St Mary’s Church. Debbie was an associate specialist in palliative medicine at the Florence Nightingale Hospice, Stoke Mandeville.

17

PETER AND INEKE COOKEBangkok, ThailandChurch ministry(AMP)

Following the Tsunami of December 2004, Peter and Ineke went to Thailand and assisted the relief work at Christ Church, Bangkok. A sense of God’s calling became stronger and when the position of Vicar became available, in association with Crosslinks, the Lord opened the door for this new opportunity for them. Since 2006 they have concentrated on building up the church ministry, especially children and youth work, small groups and Alpha, worship life and making connections with the many outreach ministries around them.

CROSSLINKS MISSION PART-

NERS ACROSS THE WORLD

AUSTRALIA

DAVID AND RACHEL WILLIAMSMelbourne, AustraliaTraining Mission Partners (AMP)

David and Rachel work with the Church Missionary Society of Australia. David leads CMS-A’s development and training ministry at St Andrew’s Hall, Melbourne, and Rachel is involved in mentoring and equipping new Mission Partners.Crosslinks and CMS-A have had a long informal partnership, working in close fellowship in many situations around the world. David and Rachel are responsible for training around 20 new Mission Partners each year, mainly from Australia and New Zealand. They also help the Society's 200 Mission Partners, located in 40 countries around the world, to keep growing and learning in their service of the Lord Jesus. David and Rachel have three children: Tom, Sam and Jonathan.

EUROPEJOHN PAUL AND SUE ARANZULLABologna, Italy Church planting / Bible teaching

The influential city of Bologna has been described as the home to Europe’s oldest university, as well as an important hub of Italy’s politics. JP and Sue have been working to establish a church at the heart of the city that is committed to bringing glory to Christ by being a people continually growing in love for him and for the town in which he has placed them.JP and Sue are also committed to training and equipping Italian Christians to become future leaders in the evangelical church (JP dedicates time to preaching workshops, conferences on bible handling and regular non-residential training to students, both locally and nationally).

18

ROBBIE AND LIZZIE BELLISBrussels, BelgiumTheological teachingChurch ministry(AMP)

Robbie is studying theology full-time at the Belgian Bible Institute (IBB) where Lizzie is also studying part-time and learning French.Previously, Robbie was an apprentice at Christchurch, Durham, and Lizzie was a relay worker with UCCF in the city before she trained and worked as a maths teacher.After completing their studies at the IBB they hope to serve in a French-speaking church, reaching Belgians with the gospel.

CHRIS AND LIZZIE BROWNBolgna, ItalyStudent ministry

Chris and Lizzie are seconded to the Gruppi Biblici Universitari (GBU), an IFES affiliated organization whose vision is ‘to share Jesus student to student’. They are the GBU Staff for the north east of Italy, based in Bologna. They have two children: Shona and Pietro.

RAY AND REBEKAH BROWNLondon, UKChurch planting(AMP)

Ray and Rebekah have spent nine years in Durban, South Africa, involved in student work and church ministry. They returned from South Africa in 2011 and are currently in Brockley, South-East London. Ray is heading up a church plant there from Grace Church Dulwich. Grace Church Brockley was launched on 29 April 2012.They have four children: Naomi, Nathanael, Natalia and Noah.

ANDY AND UTA BUCKLERParis, FranceChurch leadership and training

Andy and Uta moved to Paris in July 2011 after many years of leading a church in Mantes-La-Jolie. Andy has taken on a leadership position with the Eglise Reformee de France (ERF). He has particular responsibility for training in order to bring spiritual renewal to local churches and enable them to engage in evangelism.They have five children: Thomas, Samuel, Daniel, Lois and Amélie.

19

TIM AND LUCY CHAPMANCambridgeshire, UKChurch planting(AMP)

Christ Church South Cambs (CCSC) in Sawston, Cambridgeshire, is an Anglican evangelical church plant established in 2006. It is a community of around 80 people seeking ‘to make and mature disciples of Christ for the glory of God.’Tim and Lucy were part of the team sent to start a new gospel community in Sawston, a village of 9,000 people of which less than 5% are church-goers. Tim and Lucy pray that God will continue to equip his people to be bold in their witness to Jesus there. Tim and Lucy have three children: Chloe, Oliver and Toby.

HUGO AND JENNY CHARTERISNewcastle, UKChurch planting(AMP)

Hugo and Jenny live in Heaton, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. Since 2006 they have been leading a church plant called Christ Church, Newcastle, which originally met in their home. Currently the church meets in a local theatre.More recently they have planted a second congregation in nearby Fenham, which meets in a community college.Hugo is an Anglican clergyman. Jenny works full-time as an organisation development consultant, based in Newcastle.Hugo and Jenny have two children: Nicola and Tim.

JOHN AND PHYLL CHESWORTHOxford, UKTheological study(AMP)

John and Phyll are seconded by Crosslinks to the Solomon Academic Trust, whose purpose is to encourage study and research on the Muslim-Christian interface. The trust operates the Centre for Muslim-Christian Studies, where Phyll works as Administrator.The Centre for Muslim-Christian Studies is an independent Christian study centre seeking the transformation of Muslim-Christian relationships through shared academic study and by following the example of Jesus Christ. It seeks to do this by equipping leaders, resourcing scholars and developing biblically-based thinking at the Muslim-Christian interface through teaching, research, writing and consultancy.Since September 2012 John has been further seconded as Research Officer to a four-year project based at Birmingham University on the history of Muslim-Christian relations from 1500-1900, co-ordinating an international research team.

20

ROBERT CRELLINAthens, GreeceTheological education

After several years spent in Cambridge studying and serving at his local church with international students, Robert has moved to work in Athens, Greece. He is teaching New Testament Greek at the Bible College and also doing humanitarian and outreach work among refugees in the city. The Greek Bible College trains leaders and lay people in the Greek church, equipping them to bring the light of the gospel to this troubled nation.

TIM AND TANYA DAVIESSheffield, UKChurch planting(AMP)

Tim and Tanya Davies are involved in church planting in Sheffield. The Davies’ work with Christ Church Central, adapting their evangelism to the ways in which western communities are changing. Developments in work, technology and mobility can mean that people relate better to one another in networks rather than in parishes or neighbourhoods. Even though people live next door to one another they work in different places and might socialise with another group of people. Church planters at Christ Church Central are having to find ways of reaching into these networks - being a ‘network church’ rather than traditionally parochial. Tim and Tanya have four children: Bethan, Anna, Rebekah and Caleb.

SIMON AND RACHEL DOWDYDulwich, UKChurch planting(AMP)

Simon and Rachel Dowdy lead Grace Church in Dulwich, south east London. Grace Church is a church community that meets in the heart of Dulwich. Their aim is to explore the message of Jesus Christ and the significance of his life, death and resurrection in a way that is accessible to all. They are an Anglican church, although not a parish church, and welcome anyone regardless of his or her stage of Christian understanding. Simon and Rachel have three children: Jemimah, Hannah and Jack.

Could you serve God as a Mission

partner? Contact us today!

21

DAVID AND JANE GIBBSWanstead, UKChurch planting(AMP)

David is married to Jane. They have lived in and around London for the last 15 years. Prior to leading Grace Church Wanstead, David was a Curate at Christ Church, Leyton.The vision of Grace Church is to glorify God by being a bible-centred, welcoming church family seeking to reach out with the gospel of Jesus in the Wanstead area. Wanstead is in East London. Although relatively affluent financially it is a spiritually needy area of 25,000 people, where less than 1% go to bible-centred churches.They have four children: Katherine, Anastasia, Ruth and Joshua.

IDA GLASEROxford, UKTheological study(Consultant staff member)

Ida is seconded to the Oxford Centre for Muslim-Christian Studies, an independent Christian study centre seeking the transformation of Muslim-Christian relationships through shared academic study and by following the example of Jesus Christ. It seeks to do this by equipping leaders, resourcing scholars and developing biblically-based thinking at the Muslim-Christian interface through teaching, research, writing and consultancy.

PETER AND MIRANDA HARRISDevizes, UKEnvironmental awareness

Peter and Miranda work for A Rocha, a Christian environmental organisation working in over 20 countries around the world. They became Mission Partners in 1983 and went to Portugal to establish the first A Rocha project.Peter and Miranda’s role is to provide support for A Rocha’s practical community based conservation projects which give expression to the Christian conviction that “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” They are also involved with the international environmental community in giving focus to the relevance of questions of belief in the defence of biodiversity.

22

BRIDGET HATHAWAYWorldwideAdvisor in disability

For many years Bridget worked in the Diocese of Kagera, Tanzania. In 2003 she set up a Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) programme, working with people with disabilities. The focus is to bring change of attitude regarding disability, and to empower people with disability to live independently. However the programme also aims to bring the joy and freedom of new life in Christ to the marginalised. Since 2011 Bridget’s role with Crosslinks is as Consultant Advisor in Disability. This takes her to various countries, where she spends time encouraging existing disability programmes and helping set upnew ones.

JONATHAN AND JESSICA HEEBHelsinki, FinlandBible teaching

Finland is culturally Christian but few there see Christianity as relevant to a secular and well educated country. Jonathan and Jessica moved to Finland in 2007 for Jonathan to teach at a small evangelical Bible college north of Helsinki. Jonathan’s teaching role has developed in three areas: with those studying theology, with Finnish students preparing for mission work and with the recently started immigrant work. The students come from different backgrounds but desire to deepen their understanding of the Bible. In teaching, Jonathan’s concern is to equip the students to engage with their surrounding culture. They have two children: Jean-Paul and Nathan.

JOHANNEIrelandOther faiths outreach

Johanne served for a decade in North Africa and now has returned to Ireland to reach out to those from other nations with the gospel of Christ.

TONY AND SARAH JONESDurham, UKChurch planting(AMP)

Tony has been serving God as the Senior Minister at Christchurch Durham – a church of around 400 in Durham city centre with a growing congregation of families and young singles and students.The church is aiming to win the lost of the city and university; train men and women to be clear on the gospel and send out faithful workers into the worldwide harvest field. Tony is married to Sarah and they have two children: Emily and Samuel.

23

JIRKA AND KEIRA KRALOVIOlomouc, Czech RepublicStudent discipleship

Jirka and Keira are working in Olomouc, a large university town in the east of the Czech Republic. They aim to disciple Christian students and to reach out with the gospel to other students at Olomouc University.They have four children: Jochebed, Barnabas, Simeon and Anezka.

LEE AND VICKY McMUNNHull, UKStudent discipleshipChurch planting(AMP)

Lee and Vicky live in Hull, where Lee is responsible for leading Riverside Church. The church has a passion to see more children attending its Sunday groups and has started new outreach initiatives to local seniors with the gospel. Lee also speaks evangelistically for other churches and groups from time to time. He has recently authored and presented The Identity Course. Lee and Vicki have one son: Josiah.

PENNY NORTHWAYBologna, ItalyChurch planting(AMP)

Penny is serving Christ long-term alongside Mission Partners JP and Sue Aranzulla, in Bologna, working within the church plant they have established there. Penny has a lot of experience in children’s ministry and while living in London ran a language class teaching English.

MARK AND JANE ODENNaples, ItalyChurch planting

One French historian wrote that ‘Europe ends at Naples and ends there quite badly.’ Naples is Italy’s third city, and with a population of 4.5 million it is the capital of Southern Italy.In July 2013 Mark and Jane Oden are planning to go to Naples and establish a church in the centre. They will be working alongside an existing church for the next two years, where they will gather support for a central church plant. Mark and Jane have four children: Sofia, Inez, Luisa and Archie.

24

STEVE AND DAWN ORANGEBrussels, BelgiumChurch leadership

Steve is the Teaching Elder of the Evangelical Church of Woluwe St Lambert. The church is a growing congregation, planted in the early 1980’s and well placed to reach out to a nearby university and to the large EU and business district. French speaking Belgium epitomises the spiritual battlefield that is continental Europe: largely secular and resistant to the Gospel of Christ. Despite a long history of minority Protestant witness, only a tiny number would regularly enter a church where the Bible is explained. The need for gospel workers remains great, not least gospel workers from the Belgian harvest field itself. Steve and Dawn have four children: Jemima, Max, Zebedee and Nelly.

BRADA AND YATZA RADANOVICNovi Sad, SerbiaChurch leadership(AMP)

Brada and Yatza live in Novi Sad, Serbia. Brada pastored a church which ministered to ex-drug addicts and their families between 2005 and 2008. In 2011 he established a church plant, Grace Church, Novi Sad. He works alongside Crosslinks Mission Partners Chris and Lotta Strajnic. Brada and Yatza have two children: Matej and Ilaj.

KATE RANDLECirencester, UKSports outreach

Kate has been seconded to Christians in Sport to develop and adapt training materials for use in the UK and internationally. Although based in the UK she also trains people in sports mission in many parts of the world. In this capacity, she spends 12 weeks of each year at an international sports leadership school in South Africa and helps monitor and evaluate other training schools around the world.

CHRIS AND LOTTA STRAJNICNovi Sad, SerbiaLeadership training

Chris and Lotta Strajnic are running a project called Project Timothy in Serbia. Serbia is Orthodox by tradition. During the Reformation in Europe Serbia was occupied by the Ottoman Empire and so was never reached by the Reformation. There is a small evangelical church presence representing less than 0.1% of the population. Due to past persecution, these churches are often small and divided, with a great need for practical training and resources. Project Timothy is a gospel-centred training programme for church leaders and lay ministers. The project runs courses in evangelism, discipleship and leadership training. It provides both the tools for ministry and the training for how to use them.

25

ANDREW AND BETHANIE WALKERSantiago, ChileTheological training

After nine months of language study in Argentina, Andrew and Bethanie are currently spending two years in Chile at a theologicalcollege (CEP), with students from Chile, Bolivia and Paraguay.Previously Andrew was the International Student Worker for St Ebbe’s Church in Oxford and Bethanie worked for UCCF in Nottingham and then Oxford. On their return to Argentina they plan to serve in church leadership development. Andrew and Bethanie have one daughter: Maia.

SOUTH AMERICA

There are parts of the world where teaching the gospel is subject to severe restrictions or even directly opposed by the governing authorities. Crosslinks is privileged to support teams and individuals working in some of these places but is unable to report their activities here at the request of the workers themselves, so you will not find their names and locations on the website or referred to openly within printed publications. However, your prayers for their safety and opportunities to work effectively are needed.Some examples of these ministries are:

• A couple overseeing small group bible studies in a church in Eastern Europe• A lady doing literature work in Eastern Africa• A couple doing evangelism in North Africa• A couple teaching in South East Asia• A team doing ‘returnee ministry’ in East Asia• A lady working with commercial sex workers in East Asia• A couple working with international students in East Asia

MISSION PARTNERS IN SENSITIVE AREAS

26

are you taking a gap year?

are your children? ...SMILE..

.SMILE...S

MILE..SMIL

E...

...SMILE..

.SMILE...S

MILE..SMIL

E...

get in t

ouch!are you taking a gap year?

are your children? ...SMILE..

.SMILE...S

MILE..SMIL

E...

...SMILE..

.SMILE...S

MILE..SMIL

E...

get in t

ouch!

SHORT TERM MISSION

27

SMILE

‘It was tough at times... but God taught me so much about himself... Out of my comfort zone in an unfamiliar culture, it was wonderful to experience his loving sovereignty. As I heard the children’s testimonies, went to bible studies with the children’s village staff and helped with township evangelistic courses it was exciting to see God at work on the other side of the world.’

SMILE is Crosslinks short term mission programme for 18-30 year olds, combining travel and the experience of a totally different culture with serving God and having a taste of overseas mission.

Both groups and individuals are found placements serving local churches and people around the world for anything from two weeks to two years. There are three types of placements overseas: Gap Teams, Summer Teams and Individual Placements. Every placement involves elements of service, evangelism and discipleship.Rebecca Coombs, who spent five months of her gap year working at a children’s village in South Africa writes,

CHARLES THOMSONSouth Africa January – August 2013Charlie is teaching in Johannesburg Bible College.

INDIVIDUAL PLACEMENTS

GROUP PLACEMENTS

South AfricaJanuary – May 2013Paul, Bethany and Daniel are working in a children’s home to teach, care for the children and share the gospel through bible studies.

ARTHUR WOLSTENHOLMEOLIVER HORROCKSThailandJanuary – May 2013Arthur and Oliver are working at The Centre in Thailand, seeking to build relationships and share the gospel with students.

WILL NICHOLLRACHEL WILLIAMSALI BLUNDYALICE CAMPBELLThe GambiaJanuary – May 2013The team are serving in Fajara, teaching struggling students Christian Religious Education and other subjects. They also run after school bible clubs, help out with Sunday School at a local church, run children’s programmes on a number of conferences and support GamFES in a number of other ways.

There is also a team of three young people working in East Asia with students who have returned home from overseas study where they have become Christians. These returnees, used to the religious freedom of the West, often need help in developing their faith in a more restrictive environment.

PATRICK TICEWILL OSBOURNEBEN GREENCHARLIE BERTIE

SIMON ADCOCKJACK HUNTLEYJAMES WOOTTONIONA FARRAR-BELLIZZY CHITTY

TOBY MARTINGEORGIE COXFranceSeptember 2012 – July 2013The team are using their year abroad from university to work in a local church in France, as part of the St Paul Internship run alongside the French Reformed Church.

RACHEL HAWKINSABI HURLEY HANNAH SMEETON

PAUL WHEATLEYBETHANY SOPER

DANIEL BELL

SMILE

28

NEXTNEXT is Crosslinks short term mission programme for those aged 30 and above. Through a NEXT placement, Christians with professional or vocational expertise can put their skills to good use in God’s service for periods of a few weeks to two years.

Short-term mission placements offer many opportunities for individuals and couples to work alongside long-term Mission Partners in gospel-focused programmes. In addition to making a valuable contribution to God’s mission through their work, NEXTers gain many personal benefits: from growth in discipleship to the broadening of horizons through immersion in a different culture.

Andy and Sophie Rubie are a couple currently working with a community that provides education and a Christian environment to children orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS. Andy has experience in business management, and Sophie is a nurse with tropical medicine qualifications. They write, ‘This placement is teaching us how to rely more on God for everything through exposure to an organisation and people with very few resources. We are also learning how God works for the good even in situations that are difficult and hard to understand’. Their hosts comment that Andy and Sophie have strengthened their capacity to develop areas of work they wouldn’t otherwise have been able to do. In their words ‘The Rubies are a fantastic couple and we are very blessed to have them working with our team.’

Around 20 volunteers undertook NEXT placements in 2012. Currently there are 10 volunteers working on variety placements within South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Thailand and the Czech Republic, and Crosslinks will be mobilising more in the coming months.

29

NEXT JANETThailandJanet September 2011 - August 2013Janet is a retired music and RE teacher with TEFL training. Following an initial placement in Autumn 2010 at The Centre (an Asian Outreach International project in Chiang Mai), Janet returned a year later for a further two years. In addition to English teaching Janet is involved in several areas of ministry. She has a gift for building friendships with the students, and has found ways of sharing the good news of Jesus with them. Janet loves this area of ministry and is looking to extend her placement for a further year.

HEIDI MUNSONUganda December 2011 – December, 2013 Heidi is serving in Uganda with African Hearts, a ministry for marginalized and vulnerable young people. Heidi’s experience as a Religious Studies teacher and assistant housemistress in England has well equipped her for her role as ‘auntie’ to 16 boys who previously lived on the streets of Kampala. Heidi helps in their physical, emotional and spiritual rehabilitation, encouraging them to consider the truths of God’s Word and its application in their lives.

LENI LEDGISTERChile July - August 2012Leni is a student at Oak Hill Theological College in London. In summer 2012 she completed an eight-week NEXT placement, as part of her World Mission course. Leni elected to visit, observe and engage in gospel ministry within a church in Santiago, Chile. Since returning Leni has begun exploring the possibility of becoming a long-term Mission Partner in Chile following her course at Oak Hill.

CHRISSIE IRLAMFinland August 2012Chrissie works as an administrator and pastoral assistant with her church. she has a strong interest in overseas mission and over the last eight years has undertaken several placements under the NEXT programme. In 2012 Chrissie was able to respond to a request to provide finance and administration support to the Anglican Church of Finland in Helsinki.

CLAYTON AND MEL RYANCzech RepublicAugust 2012 - July 2013Clayton and Mel are on placement in the Czech Republic. They are based in Olomouc where they are working amongst international students at Palacký University. The focus of their work is to encourage the students to keep on with their walk with Jesus, and to share the gospel with those who don’t yet know him. Their ministry involves one-to-one bible reading, prayer times, leading bible studies, running the ‘Christianity Explored’ course and using their home to share fellowship.

30

SIAN ROBERTSSouth AfricaSeptember 2012 - March 2013Sian is an experienced RE teacher. She was able to secure a period of sabbatical leave to enable her to take up a six-month placement in South Africa. Sian has worked at Lily of the Valley Children’s Village; a ministry providing a home, education and Christian teaching to children who have been orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS. Alongside using her skills and experience in education, Sian has enjoyed many opportunities to share her knowledge and love of the Lord Jesus with these vulnerable children.

ANDY AND SOPHIE RUBIESouth AfricaOctober 2012 – June 2013Andy and Sophie are working with Lily of the Valley, a community providing education and a Christian environment to children orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS. Andy is working alongside the CEO and Business Manager using his business management skills to develop the areas of finance and fundraising. Sophie is using her healthcare skills working alongside the medical staff in the community clinic and village outreach programmes. Alongside their individual roles, the couple are involved together in the youth programme contributing to the spiritual development and mentoring of the young people within the community.

PETA GROOMETanzaniaOctober 2012 - September 2014Peta has had three seasons working as an English teacher at Msalato Theological College in Tanzania. In addition to her teaching skills, Peta speaks Swahili which has enabled her each time to quickly and easily fit into the college environment and build up good relationships with both the staff and students. Last year Peta was invited by the Principal to return for a longer-term placement. Having accepted the invitation Peta is now serving at MTC for two years, or possibly longer.

ABIGAIL STREDWICKThailandJanuary – March 2013Abigail is an RE teacher and recently undertook a TEFL course to help facilitate a placement in overseas mission. She is currently on a three month placement working alongside fellow NEXT volunteer Janet Hume, at The Centre (an Asian Outreach International project in Chiang Mai). Abi is teaching International students from the local universities. Abi has undertaken this placement with a view to returning for longer later in the year.

HELEN ENTWISTLETanzania January - March 2013Helen is a seasoned NEXT volunteer. She has been out to Tanzania several times to teach English to pastors studying at Msalato Theological College, and has helped implement a pilot basic English course for pastors’ wives there. On invitation from the Principal of Bunda Bible College, Helen is currently pioneering a NEXT placement in the northern region of the country, where she is running an intensive basic English course to students.

NEXT

31

BEST Bursaries Enabling Strategic TrainingBEST is Crosslinks bursary programme giving financial and prayerful support to indigenous clergy, church ministry leaders and workers as they start appropriate theological, biblical and ministry education and training. BEST provides this support through establishing partnerships with individuals and churches in Britain and Ireland who agree to pray regularly and help financially during their studies.

Crosslinks works in many countries where there is often little trained leadership in the churches. For example, in one Kenyan region the size of England, there are many active parishes, each with multiple congregations but only 10 clergy and two evangelists between them. Situations like this leave many churches without consistent bible teaching, discipleship or evangelistic strategy, and there are few opportunities or resources within the parishes and dioceses to make them possible.

BEST’s aim in sponsoring the training of potential church leaders is to enable them to strengthen or take up ministries as pastors, bible teachers and evangelists, and to be equipped to train others in bible knowledge and handling, discipleship, evangelism and mission.

BEST Study Partner, George Bulyaar, is a second year Diploma in Theology student at St Andrew’s College, Kabare, Kenya. His work placement allows him to gain ministry experience in his own diocese, ‘As part of my training, I was given office work, taught the adult bible class and Sunday school, and visited homes and churches in some of the remote communities.’ Once trained, George will return home to serve the church and help equip believers to take God’s word to God’s world.

In 2012 we spent 70k

funding these Study

Partners but think

how much more we

could do with your gift!

INDIGENOUS MISSION

32

Nicolas Fuentes Centre for Pastoral Studies

Hany Thabet Alexandria School of TheologyJeremiah Paul (Ethiopia) Alexandria School of TheologyMagued Morees Alexandria School of TheologyMario Zakaria Alexandria School of TheologyMichael Ibrahim Alexandria School of Theology

Hailu Guta Nekemte Christian Education CollegeWagari Gemeda Nekemte Christian Education College

Marion Poujol Faculte Libre de Theologie EvangeliquePierre-Sovann Chauny Faculte Libre de Theologie Evangelique

George Thogula Bulyaar St Andrew’s College of Theology & DevelopmentAmbrose Odiwuor Adega Bishop Okullu College of Theology & DevelopmentEkrame Abdella Abdo (Ethiopia) Carlile CollegeHabtamu Kifle Boku (Ethiopia) Carlile CollegeYohana Duba St Andrew’s College of Theology and DevelopmentJoseph Kesho Kidane St Paul’s UniversityEliud Ekadeli Lopurucho Africa International University (NEGST)Harrison Mungai Macharia Africa International University (NEGST)Abraham Nchuluku St Andrew’s College of Theology and DevelopmentErick Milowah (Tanzania) St Paul’s University

Daudi Mpaao Munguishi Bible CollegeEgla Chiyene Msalato School of TheologyPhilipo Jastin Senyagwa Morogoro Bible CollegeRobert Jacob Msalato School of TheologySamuel Maduma St John’s University of TanzaniaSarah Subeth Msalato School of TheologyZacharia Benard Siringi St Philip’s Theological College

Bekele Deboch Anshiso (Ethiopia) George Whitefield College/Stellenbosch University,Christopher Thwala George Whitefield CollegeSolanga Mkiva George Whitefield College

Goumbondi Bombonkpene West African Advanced School of Theology

Acclyne Wekaya Aloni (Kenya) Uganda Christian UniversityAndrew Epenu Uganda Christian UniversityObadiah Mutesasile (Tanzania) Uganda Christian UniversityOscar Mwesigwa Bishop Barham University College (Uganda Christian University) Vithalis Yusuph Sunzu (Tanzania) Uganda Christian University

Sladjan Milenkovic (Serbia) Good Book College, UK (Distance Learning)

BEST Currently, BEST is supporting 40 Study Partners from 12 countries, who are engaged in courses in 18 different colleges and other institutions.They are:

CHILE

EGYPT

ETHIOPIA

FRANCE

KENYA

TANZANIA

SOUTH AFRICA

TOGO

UGANDA

UK

33

Crosslinks camps in Ireland are designed to encourage children and teenagers to learn about God and believe the good news of Jesus Christ. During the week-long camps there are lively games and attractive bible teaching; as well as excellent speakers there are also quiet-time groups to help the campers think through and apply what they have heard.

Camps are lots of fun, giving young people the opportunity to make long-lasting Christian friendships. Mission Partners tell the campers about the work they do and challenge them to think about their role in God’s mission. Some campers come back year after year to grow in their knowledge and love for God, while others are welcomed and encouraged to hear the gospel for the first time.

In 2012 there were 37 campers and 17 leaders at Junior Camp. The campers enjoyed a boat ride which led to a scavenger hunt on an island, as well as swimming and a visit to the cinema. During the week the children heard about people who had taken God’s word to Kenya, Uganda and Egypt.

Parents of two campers said: “The girls have very special memories which will stay with them forever. More importantly they came home after a week of great bible teaching. They have been singing ‘Read your Bible Everyday’ – and I pray that their hearts continue to be inspired to do so.”

At Senior Camp there were 35 campers and 21 leaders. The campers studied the book of Ephesians together and the seminars and question panels provoked good discussion about Jesus and what it means to be a Christian. There were also lots of great activities themed around the Olympics.

This year’s Junior and Senior camps will run from 27 July until 3 August.

CAMPS

34

The Re:set week away is for young adults and students who have served on Crosslinks teams in Ireland or who are part of the network. Guest speakers are invited to talk about a book from the New Testament and bible study groups are run to concentrate on a section of the Old Testament. There are also plenty of other activities, including visits to local attractions and the beach. There is never a dull moment!

In 2012 Re:set took place in Sheep Island View Hostel, Ballintoy, with 30 people taking part. They heard teaching from Mission Partner Lee McMunn on 2 Timothy and had bible study groups on Ecclesiastes. One attendee said: ‘Re:set is loads of fun and we get to meet new friends and see old ones, while being fed spiritually.’

RE:SET

35

Ministry Apprenticeships have developed from the existing camps work in Ireland with the aim of training up faithful and committed workers to become skilled teachers and proclaimers of the gospel. Having become experienced in ministry to children and young people, the apprentice will spend two years within Crosslinks or as an associate in another ministry setting. This emphasis upon investing in and raising gospel workers reflects continuity with CMS’ early principles and BCMS’ emphasis on training workers for both the ‘field’ and ‘home’. The apprentice will then commit himself to a period of formal theological education before taking up a deployment with Crosslinks or another mission-centred organisation.

MINISTRY APPRENTICES

Crosslinks current Ministry Apprentices are:

RICHARD BALMER (full-time apprentice) is overseeing the Junior Camp in Ireland, developing the leadership team and establishing the overall direction for this work. He has been accepted to study at Oak Hill Theological College in September 2013.

ROSS MUNGAVIN (full-time apprentice) is working with the Senior Camp and students/young adults. He and his wife Emma (who is completing a ministry apprenticeship in a church in Dundonald, Northern Ireland) are planning to enter theological education following a further period of service in a local church.

PETER BLAIR (self-supporting, part-time apprentice) joined the team in September 2012 with a view to shadowing the current apprentices and filling one of the full-time roles in September 2013.

36

Crosslinks Project Partners are indigenous gospel workers: people in ministry within their own country.

Project Partners are engaged in Crosslinks priorities of training trainers or frontline evangelism. The fundamental aim of the Project Partners scheme is to encourage local people to focus on local initiatives in local mission, and enable British and Irish Christians to be in active partnership with them.

CRISTÓBAL CERÓNSantiago, Chile

Cristóbal is leading a church plant in Santiago, Chile. He is passionate about teaching the Bible and evangelism: he is in charge of National Gimnasio (a ministry training programme); teaches homiletics at the local Anglican Bible College; and leads Mouchile, a national evangelistic mission seeking to share the gospel with young people throughout Chile. God’s word is the heartbeat of all that he does. Cristóbal also leads Iglesia Santiago Centre, a young church plant equally passionate about the gospel, and reaching people in Santiago for Christ. The church is strategically placed to proclaim the gospel in Santiago with a particular focus on reaching young Chileans studying or working in the capital.

Elio, of Equipo Impacto, Cuba, says,'I think having British churches partner with us is great because this allows us to share with churches and individuals who have the same passion for the faithful proclamation of God’s word in our nation! It is really encouraging to know that there are Christians praying for us. Financial gifts also have a great impact here in providing bursaries for workshops and conferences, and providing valuable resources not available in Cuba. So, thank you your partnership with us in the gospel!'

For stories of those who have turned to Christ through the word of God see www.crosslinks.org

PROJECTS

37

EQUIPO IMPACTO Cuba

Alexis Perez and Elio Martiz head up Equipo Impacto, a new organisation with a vision to train thousands of church leaders and bible teachers to faithfully interpret and teach the Bible. The exciting growth of the church over Cuba in the last 18 years has seen many untrained young people put into responsible bible teach-ing roles. From its base in Havana Equipo Impacto offers churches the opportunity to have a three-day training course in expository bible preaching and teaching for their leaders. Elio and Alexis travel around the country to offer these courses to churches.

EZECHI IWUAGWUNigeria

Ezechi is a Nigerian involved in bible teaching ministry for many years, and is excited to be involved in a new initiative - establishing a bible college in Abuja. Abuja Bible College trains pastors to teach their congregations faithfully. It will also resource young evangelists, passionate about God’s word, but needing help to proclaim the gospel accurately, drawing from the Cornhill Training Course model. This will equip church leaders and lay preachers for a lifetime of faithful gospel ministry throughout Africa.

EDUCATION FOR LIBERATION ASIAE4L aims to address two needs: the recognised need of education, and the unrecognised need of the gospel. The vision is to serve in the likeness of Christ, sharing the good news of the gospel explicitly through the spoken word, and implicitly through practical service. The main focus area is in the city slums, providing education and the good news of Jesus Christ to some of the poorest people.

SAM OPOLOTUganda

Sam has recently been taken on as a Crosslinks Project Partner to organise a conference for university and college level students. The conference aims to provide expositional bible teaching for the stu-dents in order to equip them with the skills to handle and teach the Bible faithfully. Sam will also be involved in the teaching and training of students, and evangelism.

38

SBTs are one-week conferences that equip church leaders to teach God’s word. The basic principles of bible teaching are covered by SBT trainers who are experienced in expository ministry; preaching that allows the Bible to speak for itself by using proper rules of interpretation. SBTs are repeated regularly so the trainers build relationships with participants and develop knowledge of their culture.

SCHOOLS OF BIBLICAL TRAINING (SBT)

TRAINERS

Yangon, Burma Paul Barker, David and Rosemary Harley, James Leggett, Andy LinesSittwe, Burma James LeggettKampala, Uganda Jamie Child, David Heath-Whyte, Jeremy Hobson, Chris Howles, Alan PurserNepal Neil WatkinsonWest Malaysia Neil WatkinsonSerbia Iain Broomfield, Rob Gladstone, Christopher HobbsCambodia Neil WatkinsonBrunei Neil WatkinsonNepal Neil WatkinsonThai Border joint Crosslinks CMS AustraliaCambodia Neil Watkinson

Yangon, Mandalay, Hpa’ an ( Burma) Joel Edwards, Jonathan Fletcher, Benson Goh, Chris Hobbs, Tim Houghton, Andy Lines, Elliot Ng, Neil WatkinsonUganda Richard Bray, James Buchanan, Keiran Bush, Jamie Child, David Heath-Whyte, Chris HowlesEthiopia Les Jesudason, Trevor Johnston, Colin MorrisNepal Neil Watkinson

January

MarchMay

JuneJulySep

Nov

January

FebruaryMarch

'12

'13

39

PARTNERSHIP IN MISSION

There is much to thank God for in all he has enabled through the work of BCMS/Crosslinks in the last 90 years. As we look back there are countless encouragements of faithful gospel-minded brothers and sisters taking God’s word to God’s world.

In 1949 BCMS Mission Partner Gladys Knight wrote in a prayer letter from Robertsganj, India:

"I had the very great joy of being able to lead a woman to the Lord Jesus Christ. She said, ‘I am dying, but I am afraid because of my sins, can you help me?’ What a joy it was to tell her the message of salvation, to see and hear her confess her sins before the Lord, about whom she had never heard before, and to see her simply accept the Lord Jesus.”

In 1999, Tom and Heather Davison, former Mission Partners in Athens, wrote:

“Our team was able to hold a four-week evangelistic Bible study series with some international students. One week 10 friends came along to consider ‘Who is Jesus?’ The discussions were lively and honest. Seed has been sown and we trust that some of these students are being brought closer to acknowledging Jesus as Saviour and Lord.”

Such work is made possible through the gospel partnership of committed Crosslinks supporters who pray and give financially to the society. Without the existence of a mission society that is genuinely biblical in its approach to global mission such gospel partnerships would not easily be formed and maintained.

But the continued existence of such a mission society cannot be assumed, and its future is currently uncertain, which is why Crosslinks has launched its 90th Anniversary Thanksgiving Fund. We face the urgent need to raise an additional £1.2 million to remain in operation and ensure that all of the global gospel work through Crosslinks can continue.

More on the 90th Anniversary Thanksgiving Fund can be found on the website www.crosslinks.org or contact your local office, and we will send you further information.

PARTNERSHIP

42

FRIENDS OF CROSSLINKSBecoming a Friend of Crosslinks is a great way to help the society continue to take God’s word to God’s world.

The Friends scheme has been launched attract a new generation of Crosslinks supporters who will help cover the central costs of the society. These continue to be under-resourced, and historically have been largely dependent upon legacy income.

Becoming a Friend is easy - all you need do is to fill out a simple form and commit to give £5 per month. This donation will help ensure the support of biblical mission throughout the world. In return, we’ll keep you up to date with Crosslinks gospel work through the quarterly magazine and prayer diary. You can find out more and sign up online at www.crosslinks.org/friends

MEMBERSHIPCrosslinks is constituted as a voluntary society of members.

This means that the membership is the core and substance of the society, with responsibility for maintaining its ethos and directing its activities. The way this works is that every year the members nominate and elect a group of trustees – known as the General Council – who have ultimate responsibility for the affairs of the society. It is the Council who appoint the Mission Director and other senior staff, delegating to them the day-to-day running of the society. Under its Chairman the General Council meets regularly to conduct its business, and reports to the membership at the Annual Meeting of Members. In addition to its responsibilities for finance and governance, the Council approves the selection of Mission Partners and oversees all other Means of Mission.

Being a member of Crosslinks carries significant responsibility for participation in one of the key mission societies in Britain and Ireland. Members receive a personal copy of the quarterly magazine, the prayer diary and the dedicated Members Newsletter, and are eligible to vote once they have been actively giving and praying for twelve months.

Becoming a member involves signing up to Crosslinks doctrinal confession (The Basis of the Society and Statement of Faith - both available on the Crosslinks website and summarised as the Declaration of Belief) and committing to regular giving and prayer.

At the beginning of 2013 Crosslinks had 1537 members.

For more details contact the Member and Trust Manager: mtm@crosslinks.org

43

GENERAL COUNCIL

Elected members of the General Council for 2012-13Lucy BuchananJonny BurgessJackie ClasperTrevor ClelandLes JesudasonPhil ParkerJames PooleJohn Wain

Co-opted membersMatthew Payne (Chairman)David Batchelor (Treasurer)Andrew Muwowo George Kovoor (Principal of Trinity College, Bristol)

Honorary officers (non-voting)David Mills (Hon President)Brian Herd (Hon Vice-President)Peter Thompson (Hon Vice-President)Brian Tombs (Hon Vice-President)John Ball (Hon Vice-President)Jan Stafford (Hon Vice-President)

General Synod RepresentativeNeil Barber

44

STAFFThe HubAndy Lines (Mission Director)Giles Rawlinson (Operations Director)Lynda Blake (Administrator)Peter Cottingham (IT Manager)Peter Gordon (Accountant)Yemi Lawal (Accounts Assistant)Katka Mayhew (PA to Mission Director and Operations Director)

Means of Mission TeamJo Sayer (Team Leader)Krista Gilbert (NEXT Co-ordinator)Susie Hoyland (SMILE and Projects Co-ordinator)Ian Marden (BEST Co-ordinator)Chris Padley (Mission Personnel Administrator)Anita Rajguru (SMILE Assistant)

Church and Member TeamAlan Purser (Team Leader)Hannah Balch (Events and Team Administrator)Victor Chatfield (Church Partnership Development)Sue Farnsworth (Member and Trust Manager)Mark Gillespie (Communications Manager)Tim Houghton (Church Partnerships Support)Becca Pullman (Church and Member Team Co-ordinator and PA)Carmen Roberts (CMT Administration Assistant)Alex Weston (Member and Trust Developer)

IrelandTrevor Johnston (Team Leader)Richard Balmer (Ireland Apprentice)Peter Blair (Ireland Apprentice)Hazel Coulter (Facilitator and Dublin Office Administrator)Val Ellis (Activities and Relationships Co-ordinator)Colin Morris (Ireland Staff Worker)Ross Mungavin (Ireland Apprentice)Pam Smyth (PA and Belfast Office Administrator)

45

WHAT NEXT?

+

+

+

+

As well as looking back with gratitude, this 90th anniversary sees the launch of two initiatives to enable Crosslinks to continue for another 10 years, or until the Lordreturns: the 90th Anniversary Thanksgiving Fund, and the Friends of Crosslinks scheme.The big picture is that there are more people alive in the world today that do not know Jesus than there were in 1922.

PRAYWhat should we be praying for in this coming year? Here are a few suggestions:

More workers. Christ is God’s missionary but his followers are tasked with proclaiming the salvation he achieved. ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few’.

More mission-minded workers, concerned for all human suffering and especiallyeternal suffering. ‘Pray therefore earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers’.

More godly workers. It is said that we often pray for ministry but forget the minister; the character of the labourer can adorn or destroy the ministry.

More workers prepared to suffer. 'Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel, for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound! Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. The saying is trustworthy, for: If we have died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us; if we are faithless, he remains faithful—

for he cannot deny himself.' 2 Timothy 2:8-13

GIVEIn addition to the funding of all of these Means of Mission Crosslinks itself must be maintained. For the future of Crosslinks to be secure the appeal for the 90th Thanksgiving Fund is vital.

GOJoin in! The only qualification you need is the desire to serve the Lord. Whether you are looking for an opportunity to proclaim the gospel and to grow in discipleship or you want to launch a new mission initiative at home or abroad we would love to hear from you. Contact info@crosslinks.org

46

GOD’S WORD TO GOD’S WORLD

LONDON 251 Lewisham Way, London SE4 1XF +44 (0) 20 8691 6111 BELFAST 32 Montgomery Road, Belfast BT6 9HL Northern Ireland +44 (0) 28 9079 6028DUBLIN 28 Bachelor's Walk, Dublin 1, Republic of Ireland 00 353 (1) 8729508

CROSSLINKS

search for bcmsCrosslinks

info@crosslinks.org www.crosslinks.org