| To mark the occasion we asked Kevin to explain how the Full
Gospel Fellowship first began.
Q Why did the Fellowship start?
A This Fellowship came about some 60 years ago through the determination and
vision given to an Armenian dairy farmer Demos Shakarian who had fled to
California to avoid persecution. His visions showed him masses of men across
the world not knowing about God and then being told about him. They are
revitalized, uplifted and have a new joy. Demos held onto this and the
movement started firstly in the USA, based on local and regional chapters.
Q What happened locally 25 years ago?
A A number of Christian business people in the Norwich area had heard about
the FGBMFI. This movement encouraged the use of dinners and breakfasts held in
hotels and restaurants so that Christian businessmen could invite others for a
meal and to hear personal stories of their experiences with God. Hotels seemed
a non-threatening environment with the benefits of a good meal and company. A
local hotel was booked and a farming family and others started running monthly
dinners.
Q How extensive is the Fellowship today?
A It reaches almost 160 nations and over 4,500 groups meet around the world
Q
What linkage does the Fellowship have with churches?
A It is important to note that the Fellowship is not a church, but an
association of men from different backgrounds, supported by women who share
the objectives: many of whom meet as Women of the Fellowship. Most members are
actively involved in their own local churches. The Fellowship also offers
resources to churches, such as speakers, videos and invitations to dinners.
The Fellowship works alongside groups such as CWR and Walk of a Thousand Men. |
|
Q Why re-launch the Fellowship?
A The world is constantly changing and it was time to take a long hard look at
presentation and to ensure that a clear message is reaching the target
audiences. The style of literature and extent of training for members came
under particular scrutiny.
Under the new banner of Empower Men for Life the underlying message is of
reaching men and women for Christ, revealing His power and equipping all. It
is carried out through sharing real life experiences of men from all kinds of
backgrounds, from marketing to plumbing, from farming to IT, from the
boardroom to the unemployed. Men, who know the pressures in business today,
share their personal stories. Some have learnt to deal with success that did
not fulfil, while others encountered failure that became the launch-pad for a
new purposeful life.
Q How has the Fellowship been of particular benefit locally?
A Every month people from Norwich and the wider county attend dinners, some
for the first time. They have been able to hear stories from shop owners, pop
stars, sportsmen, lawyers, gardeners and many others who have a relationship
with Jesus Christ. These dinners have rekindled and many times been the start
of a person's Christian walk. It is also worth mentioning that Graham James,
the Bishop of Norwich, after attending a dinner said, "I thank God for
its ministry. May its witness be strengthened as it serves the churches in its
ministry."
Q How can I get more information?
A Dinner reservations are available by phoning Derek Muspratt on 01603 755432.
Other information on 01603 880557.
|
