800 people in Norwich with a passion for Jesus
 By Tom Chapman
What could a retired general, a Chinese accountancy student, an international cricketer, the boss of an advertising agency, a university professor and a full-time housewife all have in common?
The answer is a Passion for Life. They – and many others – have been giving their testimonies about the impact Jesus Christ has made upon them.
Five Norwich churches, Anglican, Baptist and Free, representing some 800 people, have been working together this March in a joint mission to make Christ's passion for life known.
Some events – like international cricketer Henry Olonga and ex British Army chief General Sir Richard Dannatt - have been well known, highly credible figures who have spoken to hundreds of people in large venues. Other highlights have included:
- a praise party packed with children and families worshipping Jesus
- a beach trip with folk music, food and 200 students gathered round a bonfire
- an international service with some 50 guests witnessing their four friends being baptised
- an evening of top-quality musical entertainment and a gospel message at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel
- a sports quiz and presentation with Christians in Sport
 But the vast majority of the scores of events have not involved large venues or professional speakers. They have been organised by smaller groups within churches - seniors clubs, housegroups, toddler groups and activity groups, in church halls, pub restaurants and homes.
And the message has come from ordinary Christians, sharing their particular passion with perhaps just a handful of people in a living room. By the end of this month we estimate that some 800 people – one for every member of our churches – will have heard about Jesus in a context in which they are comfortable. How many will actually believe it, we don't know, of course – that's up to him. But we are already hearing reports of people coming to faith this month.
Why did we choose this strategy? Well there is nothing wrong with big evangelistic meetings – we have two coming up. In other parts of the country Passion for Life has taken that route.
But in Norwich our vision has been to empower the people of God to share their passion for themselves, in contexts they and their friends are comfortable, with a natural continuity between the special event and everyday church life. It's not a centralised push, but something every member of our churches owns for themselves – and carries on afterwards.
Remaining events
- Friday 26 March, 7.30 pm: A Passion for Youth with NYFC – an ideal event for 11-19s with a challenging message from YFC leader Gavin Calver. Bring your youth group! Please note that this event will now be held at the Open Venue on Bank Plain in Norwich and not at Norwich Cathedral as previously advertised.
- Saturday 27 March, 7.30 pm: A Passion for Life: Find Yours – for adults with music, testimonies and a message from Norwich evangelist Toby Skipper. Venue is Norwich Cathedral, ring 01603 619555 or e-mail: info@apassionforlifenorwich.org.uk
Pictured above is the PFL beach barbecue.
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