Martin's Monthly

Who were the real winners of the World Cup? Paul the Octopus didn’t crack under the pressure and vuvuzela sales have rocketed. But as World Cup fever has come to an end, has it helped South Africa? Many, including President Jacob Zuma, envisage a lasting positive effect on the economy. But are they overestimating the benefits and underestimating the costs? FIFA will have the lion’s share of the media rights and sponsorship deals as well as some income from ticket sales. South Africa, on the other hand, could be paying the costs. It seems that the World Cup has been a fantastic experience for South Africa and hopefully created a positive feel for the whole of Africa. Let’s pray for a lasting legacy and for the Church as it seeks to show forth the lasting hope that is Jesus Christ.

1. GlobaLink is the term used to identify remote locations around the world that will participate during the Third Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization in Cape Town, from 16th-25th October 2010. A GlobaLink site can be a Bible College, mission agency or church that participates remotely in the Congress – through video link and running discussions on the issues raised. If you would like to find out more about becoming a location, click here. There are already over 25 sites around the UK; if you would like to find somewhere near you, please contact Sandy Morgan.

2. The Keswick Convention has a long and established record of encouraging and promoting mission. If you know someone attending, why not encourage them to visit the earthworks venue at the Rawnsley site, where you can explore the interactive exhibition, visit various mission agency displays, browse the bookshop, or relax in the café. Jo Jowett coordinates a large team from within the GC network who work as advisers at the venue.

3. Commonwealth Club: As I’m based in the West Midlands I find it really useful to have membership of the Commonwealth Club. It offers me a central London base, a great environment to meet people, internet access and cheap prices for small meeting rooms. We have negotiated a group rate for GC members of only £140 per year with no joining fee. For further details click here.

4. Charities Buying Group (CBG): All members of Global Connections have free access to CBG, a network of suppliers offering their services to the charity sector at very competitive prices. On Tuesday 5th October the CBG is holding a showcase event at the Houses of Parliament where you can meet some of the suppliers and have a conducted tour of the buildings. To book your free place, please register online or contact David Wright in our London office. Places are limited so please book early.

5.Other Events and Forums: further details on all the events listed are available using the links provided or visit network events for a longer of what is coming up in the next few months

• Rekonnect (TCK Holiday) - 2 to 6 August and 9 to 13 August in Yorkshire. Five fun-filled and action packed days for children aged 6-12 who have lived overseas and now find themselves back in the UK.
• Rekonnect for Teens (TCK Holiday) - 9 to 13 August in Huddersfield. Returning to the UK after living overseas can be both an exciting and daunting experience. Rekonnect for Teens seeks to help young people to understand themselves and their environment, individually and through seminars, debates and discussions.
• India Forum - 23 September in London. Bringing together those with a Christian ministry link in India. This time the theme will be the exciting topic of The Growth of the Church in North India.
• Latin America Forum - 28 September in London. The Missing Link - equipping Latin Americans for mission in Europe.Dr Roldolfo Girón will be the main speaker addressing the issue of training for Latin American mission partners, especially those working in Europe.
• International HR Forum - 30 September in London. Lifelong Learning – human resources or investors in people, addressing the issue of how we develop our mission staff who are spread across the world.

Global Connections is YOUR network and we long to see it reach its full potential under the Lord, as we seek together to do His will and to be open to His leading. If you have any ideas as to how the team here can better serve YOU, the network, do please get in touch.

Best wishes

Martin Lee