Why did that just happen?
Paul Ashley is an elder of Dorchester Baptist Church and a full-time pioneer. Under the name of Mind the Gap Ministries he has just launched two exciting new initiatives.
He explains more
The first is an evangelistic tool called Why did that just happen? and it's free to use. This tool is especially for people who want to spread the word but are less sure about using the ‘E’ word. Yes, Evangelism! Sounds familiar?
Well, when you're out and about – and when you spot someone who you think might like to know more about Christianity – you simply offer to buy them a coffee!
But instead of engaging them in conversation, you give them a small card with the words Why did that just happen? on one side and a QR code on the other. You smile, turn around, and walk away! Many of these people will be intrigued to find out why you, a stranger, just bought them a coffee.
They hang onto your card and maybe later they decide to follow it up. The QR code takes them to an app. There, they can choose a person who then explains why you bought them a coffee: it’s because you're a Christian and you simply wanted to do something kind for a stranger.
After the short video, they can follow up a set of carefully selected web links, including Alpha Course, that offer more depth about the Christian faith.
Interested in finding out more? See it in action at:
Why Did That Just Happen | Mind the Gap (mindthegapministries.co.uk)
Walking Church - 'a simple way for people to experience something of the Christian faith'
The second initiative has national reach and it’s called Walking Church. The thinking behind it is that church was never meant to be restricted by the walls of a building and for many people this puts them off. Instead, it takes place outside in the fresh air – much healthier for mind and body and far more fun.
Walking Church works by bringing people together on walks led by Christians like you, but it takes a gentle approach. Although you may be remarking on the presence of God amid the lush landscapes or tarmacked streets of your locality, you probably won’t be preaching or reciting long prayers.
Above all Walking Church is a simple way for people to experience something of the Christian faith. In doing so we foster friendships and share thoughts. If the idea of an outdoor church sounds as old as the hills, then now is the time to refresh it and connect with people who don’t have the slightest intention of going to church.
I am offering a page on the website to anyone who wants to get involved. I would love to talk to you about my own recent experiences of Walking Church, as well as provide you with support and share ideas.
Why not check out the website? It’s at: walkingchurch.co.uk
To learn more about these new initiatives, reach out to Paul at: paul@paulashley.co.uk
Do you have a view? Share your thoughts via our letters' page.
Baptist Times, 01/11/2022