On a cold autumn evening a warming Indian meal is most welcome. But Oct 23rd saw a curry night with a difference. Chillies, a local restaurant on Whitchurch Road, had been approached to host a meal with a Gospel message. In seeking to arrange this evangelistic opportunity, it was recognised that many will go out for a meal, as they went to the market place in Paul’s time, but there is a hesitancy about coming to church. Tickets were made available to invite friends to the meal stating that the evening would include a Christian talk.
Come the evening itself, every seat was taken as nearly forty people, from students to retired folk, filled the restaurant, with over half being non-Christian. The food and atmosphere were most enjoyable, leading to many profitable conversations. Between courses Tony Rucinski spoke, encouraging those present to consider the message of the Bible and pointing them to Christ.
John’s Gospel and other Christian literature was made available for people to take with them, and several of these were picked up at the end of the evening.
This was an encouraging event for a number of reasons. Firstly, it was supported by members who invited people along, and others who prayed for it. We were encouraged by the responses to the invitations - indeed the venue was too small to accommodate all those who wished to attend. We do not know the outcome of an evening such as this, but it was good to be able to present the message of salvation to all who were present.
It is hoped that this would be the first of other outreach events which will seek to build bridges with unconverted friends, relatives and work colleagues. If members have ideas for future events please pass these on to Kerry Orchard.
