Magazine for February 2010
Nightlight
Nightlight provides a listening ear and hot drink for people in town on Friday night, especially clubbers. from 11.30 pm until 3.30 am. It is run by volunteers from across the churches in Leamington. Nightlight operates from All Saint’s Church.
The ministry of NightLight over almost two years has offered a witness of generous hospitality and care, a listening ear, and – for a few so far – a stepping-stone to faith. It has challenged widely-held perceptions of Christianity and started to build bridges with a largely un-reached sector of the population. It has increased our confidence that generous love is often more effective than strident voices in drawing people towards Christ.
It has demonstrated that unity between Christians of many traditions is a potent force for good. There is a great deal for which we can thank God, and it’s clearly right to do so.
It is frequently an uncomfortable ministry – not only in terms of exposure to the weather in the middle of the night, but also in being open to questioning, hostility, ridicule, and the risks associated with the night. Jesus himself was available for Nicodemus to visit at night, and their conversation has enriched and encouraged Christians ever since (John 3.1-21).
It’s also fitting to record a thank-you to Matthew Pittam, for his enthusiasm, encouragement and hard work. Matthew has moved to St Luke’s Church in Holbrooks, Coventry, as the next stage in his training and ministry.
To volunteer for Nightlight contact nightlightchurch@yahoo.com