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 We regularly have joint prayer meetings. It is good to share points for prayer and encouragement between the churches. Wednesday, 19 July 2017 was extra special because we had visitors from Grace Baptist Mission. Team leader, Jim Sayers, began the meeting by looking at the words of our Lord in Matthew's gospel 11:28 "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Our brother went on to share with us very encouraging reports from the work of GBM. Of particular interest to this writer was how, from the office in Abingdon, radio programmes are produced to encourage and teach Christians in French-speaking Africa. Rural pastors are enabled to learn how to understand Scripture in context and so produce more balanced sermons. The importance of providing Scriptures in people's heart languages was emphasised. The process that is carefully undertaken was explained to us. Most of us find it difficult to learn anything of a second language so we can appreciate the importance of being able to read the scriptures in our own mother tongue. The work of GBM in Bordeaux and Paris was also explained. France is a very secular society. The work of evangelism has to proceed with care and patience but blessings are being seen and new churches planted. One brother who has come with the group to help our friends in Onchan and Port Erin for the next week gave an account of his visit to Latvia. It was a most encouraging report. We were exhorted to continue to pray for the work of GBM and all the missionaries. The team then outlined their plans and hopes for their week working with the churches in the Isle of Man. Many activities are planned.
The evening finished with a time of heartfelt prayer for the Lord's blessing upon the gospel message during the coming week. We then enjoyed some light refreshments and a time of conversation together.