Why We Serve in England (And Why We Need You)
By Ashley Binneboese
As I get ready to travel back to England in January I’m excited to continue some great conversations with the local churches and pastors! My preparations have caused me to ask why we want to serve in England, I’d like to share our “why” with you.
It’s easy to understand why you would choose to serve in a developing country—the physical need is visible and heartbreaking, the people are receptive to hearing about Jesus, and are open to discussion. The friendships can often develop quickly because it is easy to see how we can come alongside our new friends and meet spiritual needs that they may have.
Spiritual Need in a Post-Christian Society
It is can be hard to see the spiritual need anywhere you serve, but that need is great in England. Thirst Missions is choosing to serve in England because people everywhere need to hear about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Not all of the people we talk to will have obvious physical needs. Those that don’t want to hear about Jesus still need to be pursued and cared for. They need to be given the chance to choose Christ.
As I met with churches and ministries in London I was surprised by how shocked the pastors and leaders were that we wanted to help. The more questions I asked the more I discovered that our brothers and sisters in England have been feeling alone. With all kinds of statics showing a steep decline in people who identify as Christian it’s no wonder that they feel this way. A 2014 YouGov poll discovered that 77% of the British public say they are not religious, and even fewer of those would identify as Christians.
Historical Churches Closing Their Doors
Gorgeous historical churches are closing their doors and being turned into apartment buildings. Many congregations are watching as they lose the youth and young adults. Religious beliefs have become a private affair, as a result spiritual community feels rare.
Small Churches Engaging Their Communities
Even in these discouraging times there is hope, compassion, and the desire to share Christ with others in the congregations of England. Revival will happen. Small churches are working hard to engage their communities and to evangelize. They are starting ministries to engage the growing refugee population and the “hidden homeless,” homeless people who are staying with friends instead of sleeping on the streets.
These pastors need encouragement, emotional support, and prayer! They want teams to help train their congregations in evangelism, discipleship, youth programs, and ministry to the refugee population. They long for open dialogue about effective ministry ideas and tools.
When I explained that we want to partner with them, I saw a mixture of joy and it’s-too-good-to-be-true incredulity on the faces of the pastors. It’s that joy that fuels our passion to serve alongside these pastors in England. Members of the congregations are volunteering, but the churches are small and the needs are vast.
Why We Need You
The church needs more help—and you can be that help! You can bring encouragement to the discouraged, training in areas that you are skilled, and be a catalyst for growth by reaching out to the community with boldness.
Please consider joining us this summer with a group of eight or more. We need you to help us make a difference in England. See you this summer!
Ashley Binneboese is the Director of England Operations at Thirst Missions. In her spare time she enjoys baking, playing violin, and spending time with her husband.
