NEW LIFE SEPTEMBER 2009 • Issue 187
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MOYLES’ INVITE TO CHURCH HE RAVED ABOUT
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GOOD NEWS STORIES
EXCLUSIVE
EX-GLAMOUR MODEL: I WAS READY TO DIE
EXCLUSIVE
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BENN: WHY I PRAY FOR OLD RIVAL EUBANK
back page PLUS EXCLUSIVE InTERVIEw: CEnTRE PagES
On your bike ‘APPEAL WOULD HAVE GIVEN ANSWERS’ to raise cash A TeAM of 50 cyclists will pedal 740 miles from London to Copenhagen to raise cash to help projects in the developing world. The group of bikers will saddle up for Christian Aid, which needs vital funds. Now the charity is hunting for eager cyclists to join the “green pedal power” venture to the capital of Denmark that will also highlight the UN’s climate change summit. The trek takes place from December 9–16 and cyclists will cover between 25 and 65 miles per day and will bike no more than six hours a day. Spokeswoman Alison Gregory said: “This an amazing opportunity to make a real difference by making your voice heard at the crucial climate change talks in Copenhagen and at the same time raising money to help some the world’s poorest people.” For a brochure, the full itinerary, route profile, registration form and fundraising tips log on to www. c h r ist ia na id.org.u k /eve nts ca l l 020 7523 2248 or email events@ christian-aid.org.
Bono’s church action praise FULL STORY – P2
Why praying is good for health PRAyeR can have mental health benefits according to a psychiatry doc. Dr Andrew Newberg, Professor in the Department of Radiology and Psychiatry at Pennsylvania University, says that prayer has concentrating and calming effects in his new book about recent research. Brain scans showed that a region of the brain that focuses the mind and fosters compassion are stimulated during prayer while those linked to fear and anger are calmed.
The Rev John Mosey leaves a court hearing last month where Abdelbaset Ali al-Megrahi’s request to drop his appeal was accepted by the High Court
THE father of a woman killed in the Lockerbie bombing rang the man convicted of the atrocity to forgive him, we can reveal. And the Rev John Mosey – who feels 85 per cent sure Abedelbaset Ali al-Megrahi is innocent – told New Life
Lockerbie victim’s dad rang bomber in prison to forgive him
EXCLUSIVE by Becky Barlow that al-Megrahi thanked him for his compassionate attitude. The story of the remarkable grace of Mr Mosey, 69, is revealed after alMegrahi was released from jail on compassionate grounds. The Libyan has terminal prostate cancer and may have only months
to live. Mr Mosey said he was disappointed al-Megrahi had dropped his appeal, as he was sure it would uncover evidence as to who was responsible for the bombing. Mr Mosey told New Life that although he felt sure al-Megrahi wasn’t guilty of blowing up Pan Am flight 103 over the Scottish town in 1988, he ● Continued on Page 2
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Issue • 187
4m pray for at risk kids Mor e tha n fou r m i l l ion people around the world prayed for children at risk, with many of those who prayed being children themselves. The World Weekend of Prayer was organised by the oxford-based charity Viva. The focus of the prayer material for this year was on the Bible verse of John 10:10 and the abundance of life that Jesus came to bring. Local networks and groups of projects across the globe took a creative approach to prayer, with everything from cake baking to wrapping up marbles and putting Post-it notes on a world map. In many regions, churches joined together for the first time across towns and cities to call out to God in unison for those most in need.
‘Children in need of love’ AGONY AUNT VISITS COMMUNITIES HIT BY AIDS ChILdren need loving families and good friendships in order to develop correctly, a Bishop has said. The rt rev Jonathan Gledhill made the comments to the Lichfield diocesa n Boa rd of Fi na nce a nd Synod recently. referring to the Good Childhood report from the Children’s Society, he said: “Unless we care properly for children we will never grow the Kingdom, because ‘of such is the Kingdom of God.
ExpEctation “We have some way to go before we get back to the expectation that every church will have proper children’s work, let alone back to the 1950s situation when over 40 per cent of the population went to Sunday school.”
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ITV’s This Morning Agony Aunt, author and presenter denise robertson joined Christian development agency World Vision to on a lifechanging return trip to Uganda.
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spending a week with the international aid, advocacy and development agency, meeting children and communities affected by the hIV and AIdS epidemic.
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It is almost five years since denise – who has been with the morning show since it began 20 years ago – first visited the African country. Denise travelled deep into rural Uganda
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Rock star and poverty campaigner Bono will address a Uk summit about the good that the church has done to help the poor.
The U2 lead singer will appear via videocast at The Global Leadership Summit 2009, which takes place in newcastle-upon-Tyne in november. his exclusive videocast will be aimed at future church leaders to inspire them to help tackle global problems. Bono will focus on the inspiring response the church has given to global poverty in the past. he will also talk about his continuing life journey as a “single issue protagonist”. Commenting on his involvement at the summit, he said: “The church has done incredible things. There is no doubt in my mind that had the church not woken up on the issue of AIdS, we would not have two million Africans on anti-retroviral drugs.” Alongside Bono will be innovative leaders and pastors, Cnn’s political analyst david Ger-
Star set to give inspiring leaders’ address
gen and leaders of charities and international firms such as hewlett Packard. The event will be broadcast via videocast to 54 countries around the world, creating “a sense of local, national and international connection”. More than 3,500 UK delegates attended in 2008 and a total of 50,000 are expected to take part around the world. The conference will take place at The CastleGate conference venue on 6–7 November.
People of faith can help halt gun crime MeMBerS of the Christian faith have a major role to play in combatting gang culture in the UK, a leading criminologist has said. Professor John Pitts was speaking at the Bite the Bullet church conference on gang culture in north London recently. he believes churches are in the ideal position to run initiatives to tackle gangs, with their members being local and often connected with the young people and families experiencing gang-related problems. Mr Pitts added: “It is complex and sometimes dangerous work and we need to find ways in which statutory and voluntary agencies can work with faith groups to provide high quality training and ongoing support.” The Bite the Bullet Conference was organised by the Street Pastors initiative with the Baptist Union of Great Britain.
An answer to poverty fight The church is uniquely placed to meet the needs of the world’s poorest communities, according to a report by Christian aid agency Tearfund. I n the Th ick of It says that churches have a key role in international development because of their presence in local communities. The report states: “The local church is the poor – its members share in the suffering. Its approach to tackling poverty means it meets poor people’s physical needs and offers spiritual support to restore self-esteem, dignity and hope.”
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Issue 187 • NEW LIFE 3 NEW LIFE
LOCKERBIE DAD RANG BOMBER
Part of the fuselage of Pan Am flight 103 in which Helga Mosey, right, was a passenger
● From Page 1 needed to speak to the Libyan about his Christian faith and his daughter Helga’s death. “He told me he’d seen me in court and he’d seen my tV interviews. He thanked me for my compassionate attitude. We talked about God. Although he is a muslim he told me that he was reading the Bible,” mr mosey said. His call to al-megrahi – who was found guilty of killing 270 people in the Lockerbie bombing – was made after the ten-month trial in Holland in 2001. mr mosey explained: “I’d tried to visit him but they wouldn’t let me, so instead a phone call was arranged about two years ago. “I’d looked at this man every day in court over the original trial. By this time, I was about 85 per cent
sure that he wasn’t guilty. I told him of my doubts regarding his guilt and then I said, ‘I might be wrong because only you and God know the truth, so I want you to know that even if you are guilty, as far as we’re concerned, you’re forgiven. “We hate what you’ve done, but you’re forgiven and we’re praying that God will bless you.’ “He thanked me and the conversation ended.”
EVIDENCE Al-megrahi’s decision to abandon his appeal has disappointed mr mosey as he believes it would have brought evidence to light. Before leaving for the High Court hearing with wife Lisa, 71, he told New Life: “maybe we will never know, but my feeling is that this man who is in prison in scotland is
not guilty. It would help us to know who is responsible so that our forgiveness could be personalised.” But the mosey’s have not let Helga’s death be in vain. mr mosey, a retired church minister, explained: “At Helga’s funeral, money was given and some time later a charity was set up in her name. “We were able to set up a home in the Philippines for abused and abandoned children. mr and mrs mosey have thanked God for helpi ng them over the years. “Looking back over the past 21 years, I have to say that God has most marvellously and wonderfully helped us. “God had to come and suffer so that we could be set free. He lost his son, so he understands.”
Mr T reveals GLAMOUR MODEL SAVED BY CHURCH which team he supports A-teAm star mr t made a surprise appearance for a British church pastor recently. the 80s legend spent more than an hour chatting with Yeovil pastor Howard Davenport for a video about the Christian faith. the i nter v iew was the resu lt of weeks of persistence from the pastor, who sent numerous e-mails and made several phone calls to his management. the pair met in a hotel during a flying visit the star was making to London. the former A-team and rocky star, left, whose rea l na me is Laurence tureaud, is a born-again Christian and appeared i n a v ide o for Howard, encouraging young people to become followers of Christ. After showing the video at the elim Pentecostal Church in Yeovil, Howard is now unveiling his exclusive interview with mr t to a wider audience to promote the church’s new website. Howard said: “When mr t walked into the hotel, the atmosphere was electric and I was very nervous – but as soon as I introduced myself it became apparent that my boyhood dream to meet BA Baracus was going to be a real success! “He told me about his faith in Jesus Christ and how its helped him through some amazing highs and lows.”
Wheel good! Customers hoping to snap up the latest Harley Davidson motorbike will get a special gift when buying one in Norwich. the dealership there is giving a special version of the Bible with every sale. It’s been produced by the Christian motorcyclists Association.
Ring changes BoFFINs have launched a hi-tech gadget that allows Christians to celebrate celibacy — on their iPhone. the us developers of the Purityring application hope it will take the “no sex before marriage” message to a new generation.
I’D MADE pLANs tO tAKE My OwN LIfE SAVED... Former glamour model Jane Nkosi
FORMER glamour model Jane Nkosi has told how a visit to church saved her life.
the mum-of-one was on her way to commit suicide when she decided to visit a church before carrying out her plan. Jane, 25, explained: “there was no one to help me. I had no friends. I was living from place to place and I’d had enough. I’d quit my job and when I broke up with my boyfriend there seemed no by Becky Barlow way out. “All my money and savings had gone. It was really inside her led her to retough. I was just so tired spond. of the whole thing. one she said: “the preacher day I decided I wanted to explained that God doesn’t end it. I was just so tired condemn us – he loves us of my life. and cleans us up. there “I’d made the decision was something powerful that I was goi ng to k i ll when he said that.” myself. At first I’d thought then, Jane went to the about ta k i ng a load of front for prayer and gave sleeping tablets, but I had her life to Christ. no way of getting hold of “‘I felt a powerful thing any so I decided I was just happen inside me,” said going to throw myself in Jane. “I gave up everything front of a car.” – the glamour modelling, It was Ju ly 24 th 2008 the men – everyth ing. I when Ja ne set off from read 1 Corinthians 3:16 her home in London on where it talks about your that fatefu l n ight, w ith body being a temple and I the intention of putting knew that I could no longer an end to her life. But her have anything to do with Christian upbringing led the flesh.” her to church. Ja ne now works as a part-time clothes model sCarED and also has a job in a Ja ne sa id: “my mu m Calvin Klein store in Lonhad always been a strong don. believer and would talk she said: “Now I go out about Jesus a lot. I’d been on the streets to tell peoto chu rch w ith her but ple what Jesus has done never believed it. I thought for me. chu rch was bori ng a nd “my passion now is to something that wasn’t for go out into the world and me. But I was scared about preach the gospel of Jesus. the idea of going to hell.” I tell people my story in the so Jane decided to go to hope that it will bring them church and went into the to know Jesus as their perfirst one she came across. sonal saviour. there, at Kensington tem“I am a new person and ple, Jane heard the gospel I have Jesus to thank that message and something I am here today.”
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4 NEW LIFE Issue •187
WORLD NEWS ROUND-UP
Peace bid for crisis country
RALLY TO HELP TYPHOON VICTIMS CH A RITY boss Han k Du says volu nteer tea ms a re work i ng hard to reach people who need aid and shelter in a typhoon disaster area. Christian humanitarian agency World Vision swung into action after Typhoon Morakot hit the Philippines, Taiwan and south eastern China last week, killing at least 34 people. Mr Du, executive director for World Vision Taiwan said: “The most pressing needs now are providing shelter, food, and clean water for those who have had to evacuate their homes. We also want to make sure the children are secure and have a safe place where they are cared for.
CONGO – Key Christian leaders met at the House of Lords recently to launch the Prayer for Peace in Congo initiative. The event was organised by Pastor Jean Bonso Kanyemesha of London Fire Church International, who is director of World Action Youth – a charity working in this country with black majority families and young people. Congo is a cou ntr y i n crisis, as more than five million people have died in the last ten years and hundreds of thousands have been displaced since fighting broke out in August 2008. Pastor Jean spoke of the urgent need for prayer and practical action to address the poverty, destitution and powerlessness of Congolese people who have been bereaved, raped, or displaced by the fighting.
Do you want fries with it? USA – An American church offered doughnuts and prayer as part of a recent drive-thru service. Trinity Hillcrest Church, Dallas, hoped the event with free food and quick turnaround would draw in people who might not otherwise set foot in a place of worship. While half-a-dozen church members monitored traffic, others, including several small children, sat in front of a makeshift coffee bar in the car park waiting for “customers”. Other volunteers offered to pray for motorists. The Rev Bi ll Lovell sa id: “We would like to see some of those folks wind up at Trinity. But much more important is learning about Jesus.” Yellow cab driver Isaac Unogy was clearly impressed. He said: “When you see church people in a place like this, you feel God.”
Big push for Oz churches
AUSTRALIA – Hundreds of churches in the Australian state of New South Wales joined together recently for the Jesus A ll About Life (JA A L) Project. Churches of all denominations dedicated two Sundays to the campaign, which aims to introduce the whole state to Jesus. The Bible Society’s JAAL campaign was developed as a radical step to bring the message of Jesus to the Australian community. Prev iously r u n i n South Austra l ia, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory, the campaign is designed to get people in New South Wales talking about the relevance of Jesus in their everyday life.
Poverty pleas WORLD – Almost three quarters (72 per cent) of British people want to see poverty ended in their life time, a poll says. The report, com m issioned by Christian Aid, makes a number of recommendations to achieve that goal, such as combatting climate change and helping poor countries adapt to its impact. Director Dr Daleep Mukarji said: “Change can bring the opportunity to shape what is to come, giving birth to hope and a sense of purpose.”
pray “Highways and bridges are f looded and blocked by mudslides, fallen trees and other large debris. For those who can’t reach shelters, we are working to find ways to bring aid to them. World Vision is aiming to raise around £500,000 to provide relief and rehabilitation support to families affected. Mr Du added: “We pray the floodwaters will recede quickly so people can return home and begin the recovery process.”
Aid starts to reach areas cut off by Typhoon Morakot
MAN’S MIRACLE AFTER BATTLE WITH CANCER
docs said i would die… 11 years ago! by Ian White
Marcos and Jennifer with Lea, 11, and Samuel, five
in the Canary Islands
CANCER victim Marcos Suarez said he was left devastated when doctors told him he wouldn’t live to see the birth of his first child. Such was the severity of the tumour on his brain that his wife was induced so their baby daughter could come into the world a month early. But that was 11 years ago – and Marcos told New Life he believes that a miracle from God had healed him so he could carry out his “calling” to become a church pastor. Marcos, who is now back in his native Canary Islands as the minister of a new English-speaking church, recalled how his Irish wife Jennifer had challenged him during those tough times. He said: “She challenged me with the question: ‘Did God call you to Bible college and did he call you to the ministry?’ “When I said ‘yes’ Jennifer simply stated that then I wasn’t going to die as God didn’t make mistakes,” he said. Marcos’ tumour shrank after chemotherapy and he subsequently graduated from Belfast Bible College. Despite a number of phone calls offering the chance to minister at churches, it was a while before he finally accepted “the call” and took
Ministry’s joy at 1m milestone
A MINISTRY which posts Bibles to countries where Christianity is banned has sent its millionth copy of the New Testament. Bible Unbou nd posted its milestone copy last month to a Christian in China. The orga n isat ion was lau nched i n 2006 to enable Christians to send New Testaments i nto cou nt r ies where Christians are not able to buy their own Bible. on pastorship of his old church in Arrecife, capital of Lanzarote. During that time Marcos and Jennifer – a nurse – thought that his tumour was returning as he suffered what felt like a “massive migraine”. “We both thought that this would be it this time, but after a couple of scans it was proved there was no tumour any more,” he said. “I was healed and believe this was a miracle of God.” The couple moved to Northern Ireland to pioneer a Free Methodist Church in Dunnuagan and stayed for four years. But the whole experience left
Marcos very tired and they jetted back to La nza rote about th ree years ago. After recuperation Marcos, 36, gradually got back to full health and, eventually, he became youth pa stor at a n A r ge nt i n i a n -r u n church, which has just relocated to the tourist hotspot of the Marina Rubicón in Playa Blanca. He recently took on responsibility for the new English meetings – currently on Saturday mornings. “I’m a realist and realise most of my congregation will be holidaymakers, but they could become Christians and become a blessing to their nations,” he said.
wonderful “We are thankful to the faithf u l Ch r ist ia ns l iv i ng i nside these restricted a nd hosti le nations who take great risks to supply names and addresses of those needing God’s Word,” said executive director Tom White. “Bibles Unbound is a team effort, and God has called together a wonderful team. If you have mailed or sponsored New Testaments, thank you for helping us reach this great milestone!” Christians submit names and addresses of persecuted believers in need of Bibles.
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Issue 187 •
NEW LIFE NEW LIFE
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INVITE FROM CHURCH THAT MOVED DJ Golden couple’s wedding secret
come and meet a real saviour!
A CouPLE who have been married for 50 years put their long-lasting relationship down to their faith in God. Doug and Nova Cross, who attend Ashbourne Elim Church in Derbyshire, celebrated their golden anniversary recently, but were quick to give thanks to God for the half-century marriage. The couple, both 71, pictured, believe the secret to their success is forgiveness. Doug said: “Like most couples, over the years we have had our arguments and ups and downs, as well as family problems, but we have felt that the Lord has totally guided us in our life together. “one piece of advice given to us at our wedding, taken from the Bible was, ‘In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry’. “In other words, if you have an argument, sort it out and forgive one another, don’t let it fester. It’s been good advice and we have 50 years of proof. We thank God for a happy marriage together with all his many blessings to us.’
Runderful way to help those in debt
DJ Chris Moyles has been invited to KingsGate Community Church, above, by Pastor Dave Smith, below Main pic courtesy of BBC
THE founder of a debt counselling charity is to go on the run – to raise cash to fund more centres as the recession bites. Christians Against Poverty (CAP) has 102 church-based centres around the UK, but a further 60 are planned in the next year. Founder John Kirby announced the ultimate Challenge last month, as demand for advice about unmanageable debt increases. Mr Kirby will run 84 miles in 30 hours with a team of colleagues to raise more than £750,000 to fund the extra centres. He said: “‘We will be able to help an additional 3,500 people a year with our free service. In such desperate times, this is a boost to all those living under the burden of unmanageable debt.”
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RADIO 1 DJ Chris Moyles has been given an official invitation to the church he raved about on his breakfast show. New Life can also reveal that since the outspoken presenter talked about KingsGate Community Church it has been inundated with calls from visitors. A baptism service at the Peterborough church was aired on BBC1 earlier this year and Moyles – who calls himself the Saviour of Radio 1 – spoke the following day about how he felt uplifted by the programme. Speaking on his breakfast show, Moyles said: “I woke up, turned on TV and watched this Pentecostal service. “It was so happy, so incredibly uplifting. There were people being baptised and it was like those American gospel services... but this was England!
fantastic “It was one of the most fantastic things I’ve seen in years. Everybody was singing about Jesus, holding their hands in the air and whooping in celebration. I can honestly say I have never seen anything like it.” After hearing the 35-year-old’s comments, KingsGate’s senior leader Dave Smith admitted he was “surprised and delighted”. Speaking exclusively to New Life, he said: “Because of his popularity and influence, especially among younger people, it has had a major ‘ripple effect’ both in terms of our own
EXCLUSIVE by Matthew Murray locality and far beyond.” Mr Smith extended an invitation to Moyles – and to the rest of the country – to attend regular services there. Speaking about inviting people to church, he added: “This is not only a personal passion of mine, but is what we should be about.” He added: “We have had an overwhelmingly positive response from both the churched and unchurched, locally and nationally, from life peers to life prisoners! “Within minutes of the service finishing many of our members started getting enthusiastic texts and emails in from friends, family members, work colleagues and neighbours many of them not yet Christians, saying how much they had enjoyed or been touched by the service. “The evangelistic opportunities and openness to the gospel has increased significantly, and many throughout the nation seem to be really encouraged that the service was aired by the BBC and picked up on so positively by Chris Moyles.” Meanwhile, Mr Smith revealed that it was the BBC which approached the church to air the service. “We were somewhat taken aback when the BBC came to us in January to do the live Pentecost service, as well as host 2 Songs of Praise recordings. “Having not had experience in this whole area of media, we said ‘yes’ with a mixture of excitement and trepidation!”
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NEW LIFE • Issue 187 NEW LIFE
Issue 187 •
NEW LIFE NEW LIFE
NEW LIFE NEW LIFE EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: NIGEL BENN REVEALS ALL www.newlife.co.uk
WORKING TOGeTheR TO BRING you The GOOd NeWS
tune in In 2009, New Life will be working with Christian
media organisation United Christian Broadcasters (UCB) to spread the Word. UCB broadcast to virtually all major UK cities on dAB digital radio and you can also listen via digital satellite and online. UCB radio is perfect for anyone who has an interest in news, features, music and interviews from a faith perspective.
explore ChristiAnity We’re also working with Alpha, the course that allows people to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed setting over ten thoughtprovoking weekly sessions. The courses are free and are usually run in the evening, and include a meal or refreshments. To find a course near you, see www.alpha.org
Find A ChurCh We’re also working with Find a Church, who run a brilliant website listing the details of more than 42,000 UK Christian churches. Simply tap in your postcode for help to find a great church in your area.
the BiBle MAtters The Gideons are well known for their work distributing Bibles to schools, hospitals, hotels etc. If you want Jesus to make himself real in your life, and don’t have a Bible, The Gideons will be happy to provide you with a Testament completely free of charge.
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I’m destroying darkness now H
E’s made millions, driven fast cars and lived in big houses, but boxing legend Nigel Benn has somewhat changed his priority list in recent years.
In fact, despite achieving heroic status in the boxing ring and becoming twotimes world champion, Nigel describes his achievements as nothing in comparison to life today. In a dramatic turnaround, the muchloved boxer has swapped his career for the Bible, training for prayer and fighting for preaching. Meanwhile, despite many affairs over the years, his marriage to Caroline has been restored, and the couple are helping run a youth group at their church in Majorca. Speaking exclusively to New Life, Benn says: “The Dark Destroyer is long gone, he’s now here to destroy the darkness and that’s it! “People say to me, ‘Nige l, you’ve achieved so much in life, you were twotimes world champion!’ But I match that up with the Bible, and Jesus says in Mark 8:36, ‘What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose your soul?’ “I’ve done all that – I forfeited my soul, my mind, my will and my emotions. What did it profit me? Absolutely nothing! Now I can read the Word of God and match myself up with it. Jesus has shown me how to help people, people who are stuck in that dark pit but who really need help. “Being world champion means nothing, they’re just pieces of metal. People say I’ve achieved so much but for me to achieve something would be to help a drug addict get free, help someone with marriage problems or to help someone who is just struggling with life. That’s what Jesus has called me to do!” Nigel revealed that where many sportsmen looked to drink and drugs in pursuit of happiness, his constant battle was women. Hooked on casual sex, his addiction made him so depressed he tried to commit suicide. In a bout of self-pity, he took an overdose and tied a hosepipe to his car’s
Once boxing’s Dark Destroyer, Nigel Benn now calls himself the Destroyer of Darkness after seeing his life changed by Jesus Christ. From numerous affairs, world titles and an attempted suicide, he reveals all to Matthew Murray exhaust in an attempt to end his life. But, in what Nigel describes as a miracle from God, the hose fell out of the car three times and his life was spared. Nigel, who knocked out 35 opponents in 42 professional fights, immediately realised it was God who had saved his life, and although he called himself a Christian and attended church, he admits that it was only two years ago when he started living a true Christian life. Following countless affairs which led to well-publicised bust-ups and rows with his wife, he realised he had to confess all to the woman he loved. It was only then that his lust demons began to flee. “I wasn’t a happy man. I was hurting my wife by having untold affairs and was out partying. There was something missing in my life. I was going down that road of destruction. “I was crying out and didn’t know why I was doing the things I was doing, I was in bondage and didn’t know how to get out of it. I had help from psychiatrists and all sorts of people but nothing was working. I didn’t have victory over darkness.
confessed “When the hose came out of the car three times I had an encounter with Jesus. He was showing me that he was there for me. However, people can shout ‘Hallelujah’ and ‘praise God’ but yet they don’t have fellowship with God because they walk in darkness. That was me for some years.” Nigel, now 45, revealed that it was only when he truly confessed his wrongs did he feel freedom. “God brought me to a place of confession”, he says. “I had to go and tell my wife I was having an affair, which was hard. I could have lost everything, my wife, my kids but it was like, ‘Satan, you don’t have
Nigel as he announces his retirement from boxing
a hold on me no more’. I knew I was free because of the blood of Jesus. I wasn’t in bondage any more! “If you read the Bible it says ‘God is light and in him there is no darkness. If we say we have fellowship with him but yet walk in darkness we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as he is in the light we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all our sins. If we say we have not sinned we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. But if we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive our sins.’
N
igel left the family home for a year to live with his pastor, where he studied the Bible intensively and developed a relationship with the Lord. He and Caroline now travel to churches throughout the UK telling others of their journey. Nigel adds: “I want to give my testimony and tell people what Jesus Christ has done in my life. I want to show people that Jesus is the way, he is the truth and he is the life. It’s about showing people what Jesus has done in my life; without him I would not be here today. “A lot of people have this stereotype about Christians where they think Christianity is so boring, but I want to show them the light. We will have problems, but God will always make a way for us to get out of it. “I might be able to help save one soul and that is what God has called me to do, to stand on his Word boldly. I don’t care if I offend people, I would rather offend people than my Father in heaven.” ● Nigel will share his story at an event at Sheffield United Football Club on September 12. For details, visit www. lovelife-uk.com
Nigel and wife Caroline at a recent charity event and, below, in the ring with old adversary, Chris Eubank
A Admit that you have done wrong that Jesus died so that you can B Believe be forgiven, and ask God to forgive you The Bible says, ‘All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God’ (Romans 3:23).
‘God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life’ (John 3:16); ‘If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us’ (1 John 1:9).
C Commit yourself to living God’s way
‘I wasn’t a happy man. I was hurting my wife by hav ing untold affairs and was out partying. There was something missing in my life’
Jesus said, ‘Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’ (John 8:12). Log on to www.lookingforgod.com for more help.
FREE
FOR EVERY READER DAILY INSPIRATIONAL BOOK call 0845 6040401 or log on to www.ucb.co.uk
Nigel chats to reporter Matthew Murray and reveals all about the demons that once plagued his life
Nigel relaxes at home, a changed man
7
6
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NEW LIFE • Issue 187 NEW LIFE
Issue 187 •
NEW LIFE NEW LIFE
NEW LIFE NEW LIFE EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: NIGEL BENN REVEALS ALL www.newlife.co.uk
WORKING TOGeTheR TO BRING you The GOOd NeWS
tune in In 2009, New Life will be working with Christian
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explore ChristiAnity We’re also working with Alpha, the course that allows people to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed setting over ten thoughtprovoking weekly sessions. The courses are free and are usually run in the evening, and include a meal or refreshments. To find a course near you, see www.alpha.org
Find A ChurCh We’re also working with Find a Church, who run a brilliant website listing the details of more than 42,000 UK Christian churches. Simply tap in your postcode for help to find a great church in your area.
the BiBle MAtters The Gideons are well known for their work distributing Bibles to schools, hospitals, hotels etc. If you want Jesus to make himself real in your life, and don’t have a Bible, The Gideons will be happy to provide you with a Testament completely free of charge.
The ABC of how you can become a Christian...
I’m destroying darkness now H
E’s made millions, driven fast cars and lived in big houses, but boxing legend Nigel Benn has somewhat changed his priority list in recent years.
In fact, despite achieving heroic status in the boxing ring and becoming twotimes world champion, Nigel describes his achievements as nothing in comparison to life today. In a dramatic turnaround, the muchloved boxer has swapped his career for the Bible, training for prayer and fighting for preaching. Meanwhile, despite many affairs over the years, his marriage to Caroline has been restored, and the couple are helping run a youth group at their church in Majorca. Speaking exclusively to New Life, Benn says: “The Dark Destroyer is long gone, he’s now here to destroy the darkness and that’s it! “People say to me, ‘Nige l, you’ve achieved so much in life, you were twotimes world champion!’ But I match that up with the Bible, and Jesus says in Mark 8:36, ‘What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose your soul?’ “I’ve done all that – I forfeited my soul, my mind, my will and my emotions. What did it profit me? Absolutely nothing! Now I can read the Word of God and match myself up with it. Jesus has shown me how to help people, people who are stuck in that dark pit but who really need help. “Being world champion means nothing, they’re just pieces of metal. People say I’ve achieved so much but for me to achieve something would be to help a drug addict get free, help someone with marriage problems or to help someone who is just struggling with life. That’s what Jesus has called me to do!” Nigel revealed that where many sportsmen looked to drink and drugs in pursuit of happiness, his constant battle was women. Hooked on casual sex, his addiction made him so depressed he tried to commit suicide. In a bout of self-pity, he took an overdose and tied a hosepipe to his car’s
Once boxing’s Dark Destroyer, Nigel Benn now calls himself the Destroyer of Darkness after seeing his life changed by Jesus Christ. From numerous affairs, world titles and an attempted suicide, he reveals all to Matthew Murray exhaust in an attempt to end his life. But, in what Nigel describes as a miracle from God, the hose fell out of the car three times and his life was spared. Nigel, who knocked out 35 opponents in 42 professional fights, immediately realised it was God who had saved his life, and although he called himself a Christian and attended church, he admits that it was only two years ago when he started living a true Christian life. Following countless affairs which led to well-publicised bust-ups and rows with his wife, he realised he had to confess all to the woman he loved. It was only then that his lust demons began to flee. “I wasn’t a happy man. I was hurting my wife by having untold affairs and was out partying. There was something missing in my life. I was going down that road of destruction. “I was crying out and didn’t know why I was doing the things I was doing, I was in bondage and didn’t know how to get out of it. I had help from psychiatrists and all sorts of people but nothing was working. I didn’t have victory over darkness.
confessed “When the hose came out of the car three times I had an encounter with Jesus. He was showing me that he was there for me. However, people can shout ‘Hallelujah’ and ‘praise God’ but yet they don’t have fellowship with God because they walk in darkness. That was me for some years.” Nigel, now 45, revealed that it was only when he truly confessed his wrongs did he feel freedom. “God brought me to a place of confession”, he says. “I had to go and tell my wife I was having an affair, which was hard. I could have lost everything, my wife, my kids but it was like, ‘Satan, you don’t have
Nigel as he announces his retirement from boxing
a hold on me no more’. I knew I was free because of the blood of Jesus. I wasn’t in bondage any more! “If you read the Bible it says ‘God is light and in him there is no darkness. If we say we have fellowship with him but yet walk in darkness we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as he is in the light we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all our sins. If we say we have not sinned we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. But if we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive our sins.’
N
igel left the family home for a year to live with his pastor, where he studied the Bible intensively and developed a relationship with the Lord. He and Caroline now travel to churches throughout the UK telling others of their journey. Nigel adds: “I want to give my testimony and tell people what Jesus Christ has done in my life. I want to show people that Jesus is the way, he is the truth and he is the life. It’s about showing people what Jesus has done in my life; without him I would not be here today. “A lot of people have this stereotype about Christians where they think Christianity is so boring, but I want to show them the light. We will have problems, but God will always make a way for us to get out of it. “I might be able to help save one soul and that is what God has called me to do, to stand on his Word boldly. I don’t care if I offend people, I would rather offend people than my Father in heaven.” ● Nigel will share his story at an event at Sheffield United Football Club on September 12. For details, visit www. lovelife-uk.com
Nigel and wife Caroline at a recent charity event and, below, in the ring with old adversary, Chris Eubank
A Admit that you have done wrong that Jesus died so that you can B Believe be forgiven, and ask God to forgive you The Bible says, ‘All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God’ (Romans 3:23).
‘God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life’ (John 3:16); ‘If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us’ (1 John 1:9).
C Commit yourself to living God’s way
‘I wasn’t a happy man. I was hurting my wife by hav ing untold affairs and was out partying. There was something missing in my life’
Jesus said, ‘Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’ (John 8:12). Log on to www.lookingforgod.com for more help.
FREE
FOR EVERY READER DAILY INSPIRATIONAL BOOK call 0845 6040401 or log on to www.ucb.co.uk
Nigel chats to reporter Matthew Murray and reveals all about the demons that once plagued his life
Nigel relaxes at home, a changed man
7
Issue 187
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Issue 187• NEW LIFE 9
BBC FOOTBALL FOCUS PRESENTER’S RULE
Work on Sunday? Not on your telly! by Hugh Southon
THE new presenter of BBC’s Football Focus has ruled out working on Sundays – because he’s a committed Christian. And Dan Walker’s “never on Sunday” rule hasn’t stopped him carving out a big career. His demands to keep Sundays sacred by refusing to work was a decision which many believed would hold back his sports reporting career. But he’s proved them wrong and will now become the new face of footie... after landing one of the biggest jobs imaginable in sports TV. Dan said: “I take my faith quite seriously and I don’t work on a Sunday. “Lots of people have told me that I am an idiot and that I’ll never get anywhere in life with an attitude like that. “I always said I’ll do as a good a job if not better than anyone you’ll ever employ. “But I did always think that this was a job I’d never get, because it’s so high profile. “It means even more for me because I’ve made my stand, but still been given this opportunity. “I’ve grown up watching Football Focus, so now to be presenting the show really is a dream come true.” He is taking over from Manish Bhasin, who has moved to present the BBC’s new Football League Show. Dan revealed how he’d once been told “you will not get anywhere with an attitude like that” as he left the offices of a major radio station in London nine years ago. “The interviewers were under the impression that what I had written in my CV about not working on a Sunday was a joke.
A t e e nage r has pic ked up a top accolade for his work on his church’s website. Nick Salisbury, 18, impressed a panel of judges to pick up the Surefish Local Church Website of the Year award with the site for St Andrew’s,
When I explained that I was a Christian, and why I felt the way I did, one of them just sat there with his mouth wide open for about ten seconds.” Speaking prior to landing the job to present the flagship show Football Focus, he revealed: “It was a great job and they fully expected me to give up everything to work for them. “It was a similar story at a television
Rochdale – www.st-andrew.co.uk. Hosting the awards in London, BBC Songs of Praise presenter Pam Rhodes said: “What we’ve seen today is excellent in terms of innovation, business enterprise, imagination and technical skill.”
company six months later. I explained my convictions about Sunday, but the boss was convinced that if he offered me the job and threw in a big pay rise, I would just take it. I didn’t. “I’ve not yet bumped into the bloke who told me I would never get anywhere with ‘an attitude like that’. Hopefully one day I will see him again and be able to testify of God’s gracious provision for his people!”
PEOPLE who surf the web will receive the gospel thanks to a global initiative next year. As part of Internet Evangelism Day – on April 25, 2010 – Christians will be urged to talk about their faith through blogs
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COMMENT Out of darkness IT always looked like Nigel Benn had the world at his feet during his days as a formidable world championship boxer. But, privately, he was struggling with demons in his life, particularly when it came to staying true to his wife, Caroline. That’s the problem with fame – too many people want to be around you and want to share in your good fortune. Benn now hopes that those fans who worshipped him, will follow his lead to worship and serve our creator God. It has been a struggle for the boxing champ, but he has overcome after putting his trust and faith in Jesus. The Bible says that in our weakness, God is our strength, and he has used Benn’s weakness to bring about an even stronger man – mentally rather than physically. With his wife Caroline, the couple are using their trials in life to speak to others about their faith. Caroline didn’t lose faith or hope that Benn would one find in his heart the love of God that would cement their relationship. Together, they are now destroying the darkness that once was a major part of their life.
Amazing grace
Dan Walker, above left, during an interview at a rugby game earlier this year before becoming the face of Football Focus. Right, Dan presenting a programme on BBC News channel
Teen picks up top web award Scheme with real net gain
Solutions on the right
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Down 1. Intransigent (7) 2. Majestic (5) 3. Gusto (6) 5. Devise or invent (7) 6. Storage towers (5) 7. Cab (4) 9. Darned (5) 14. Dried grapes (7) 16. Salary increase (5) 17. Cigar (7) 18. Detestable (6) 19. Arm bone (5) 20. Notion (4) 22. Vernacular (5)
and social networking sites. A spokesman said: “In New Testament times, the Roman road system enabled the spread of the gospel. In the same way, the internet today can facilitate communication.”
THE amazing grace that John Mosey has extended to Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset Ali al-Megrahi is to be applauded. Mr Mosey lost his daughter Helga in the atrocity, but he has always called for restraint since the bombing 21 years ago. We have revealed that Mr Mosey rang the man convicted of the bombing in jail to talk of his faith and to show forgiveness. This outpouring of grace is what Jesus said we must all find in our hearts – because God had the grace to forgive us for all our sins. The past 21 years must have been torturous for Mr Mosey, especially as he says he can’t be sure that al-Megrahi was responsible. As well as amazing grace, he has shown amazing faith. For that reason, we must all pray that the truth is revealed – and soon.
BIBLE QUOTE OF THE MONTH “Fear not for I am with you.”
Isaiah 41:10
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Issue 187
NEW LIFE CLASSIFIEDS WANT TO EXPLORE CHRISTIANITY, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN? KEEP THIS PAGE TO HELP YOU FIND A NEW DIRECTION IN LIFE... ALTRINCHAM The Upper Room Christian Fellowship, The Downs. Sunday services 10.45am and 6.30pm. Enquiries: 0161 282 6676. (CA09) ASHFORD Ashford Christian Fellowship Worship Centre, 23 Tufton Street. Sundays: 9.30-11.30am (inc. children’s facilities) & 12.00-1.15pm (no children’s facilities). Enquiries: 01233 334007. (CF57)
BIRMINGHAM Bromford Bridge Church Centre (AoG), Bromford Drive. Sundays 10.45am and 6pm. Minister Ivor Davies. Tel: 0121 748 7081 Mobile 07745 100 942. (AG30) B U R Y S T ED MU N D S, Suffolk. The Christian Resource Centre (a Pentecostal church). Oakes Road, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP32 6PX. www. crcministries.co.uk 01284 761000. Service times: Sunday 10.30am and 6.30pm. All the family will be made (EQ05) very welcome. CANTERBURY Trinity Community Church. Meetings Sundays 10.45am at St Stephen’s Junior School, Hales Place, Canterbury. Tel: 01227 459 785. (CA06)
CHATTERIS FenLife Christian Church. Sunday 10.30am and 6.30pm. King Edward Centre, Railway Lane, CHATTERIS. 01480 385001. www.fenlife.org.uk (EQ51)
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READING Assemblies of God Christian Centre (Mount Zion). Sundays 11am and 6.30pm. Tuesdays and Thursdays 7.30pm. Enquiries Tel: 01252 872 754. (AC01)
Rainham School Girl’s (between Highfield Road & Derwent Way), Rainham
GILLINGHAM
Meet every Sunday 10.30am A warm welcome awaits you For information on other meetings phone Allan Smith 01634 264410 (CF42)
HUDDERSFIELD Elim Pentecostal Church, Grace Centre, 23 St Johns Road, Huddersfield HD1 5BW welcomes you to their Sunday services 10.30am and 6.30pm. TE: 01484 535 554 Web Site: www.huddelim.org.uk
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RETFORD Retford New Life Church Centre, 26-32 Bridgegate, Retford, Notts. Morning Meetings 9.30am & 11.30am. Children’s Church 9.30am & 11.30am. Sunday Evenings 6.30pm. Everyone welcome. Contact 01777 711377. (CA36) RUSHDEN Full Gospel Church. High Street South, Rushden. A family Church that loves God, each other and those in the community. Sundays 10.45am & 6pm. Enquiries telephone: 01933 418 002. (DC19)
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There is always a church near you.
ISLE OF WIGHT – Manna Christian Fellowship. The Music Room, Bishop Lovett School, Appley Road, Ryde. Sundays 11am and 6.30pm Tel 01983 564 845 (CB48) LEICESTER Narborough Road Christian Fellowship. Meet at Manor House, Neighbourhood Centre, Haddenham Road. Services: Sunday 10.30am. Tel: 0116 2891 395 or 0116 2897 804. All welcome. (AB25) LEICESTER Apostolic Church New Life Centre, Sanvey Lane, Aylestone, Leicester LE2 8NF. Main services: Sunday 10.30am worship, Bible ministry and Communion. Wednesday 8pm Bible study and prayer. Pastor Richard Forman telephone 0116 275 2582 everyone welcome. (CW05)
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L I G H T H O U S E ( E L Y , CAMBRIDGESHIRE) A loving, growing, praying family church. Sunday celebration 10.30am & 6.00pm. Enquiries phone: 01353 662 228. Email: info@lighthouse-ely.org.uk. Web www.lighthouse-ely.org.uk. Also Christian Bookshop 01353 667 004.(DU35)
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EDENTHORPE, near Doncaster Edenthorpe Pentecostal church, Edenthorpe Community Centre, Cedric Road. Sundays 10.30am & 6.00pm. Children’s Good News club Wednesday 4.30pm to 5.45pm. 4U Children school year 6-9 Fridays 7.15pm. Warm welcome to all. Enquiries 01302 882738. (ER50)
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SHANKLIN Isle of Wight, Living Waters Fellowship, 29, Victoria Avenue. Sundays 2.30pm (Service). Wednesday Home Group 10.30am (Bible Study). Thursdays 10.30am (Prayer) 7.30pm Monthly also Saturdays 7.30pm Monthly (Intercessory Praise & Worship). Enquiries & Newsletter (01983) 863683, livingwaters.iw@btinternet.com or livingwaters.iw@gmail.com. (CA52)
LONG EATON Oasis Christian Centre, Derby Road. 10am & 6pm. Come and enjoy the dynamic worship and a warm welcome. God centred, Purpose driven, People empowering. Enquiries: Church Office 0115 9460463
How the fiery evangelist received his anointing
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inspir ing insights from the sa ints of old
MAIDSTONE Welcome to Grace Community Church which meets at Grove Road, Mangravet (near Police HQ), Sundays 10.30am. Enquiries: 01622 664 940 (DP53)
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Star Kaka with wife Caroline
Issue 187 •
Deal was a Real move of God! LINVOY K A K A’S w ife Caroline has declared the world’s greatest player’s move to Real Madrid is a sign from God. The ‘great 8’ switched to the Spanish giants from AC Milan in a €65 million deal. And Caroline declared: “There are people out there who need our help. “I made a covenant with the Lord, that I was convinced in spirit to marry a virgin. “After falling in love with Kaka, I thought that I would fail in doing this; however I told him clearly that I wanted to remain a virgin until marriage. “It was a signal that I had respected the
Lord, and now there is a sign from God, through Real Madrid. “How can someone, in this period of crisis, be worth so much money? It is because God has put this money into the hands of Real Madrid, in order to recruit Kaka.
NEW LIFE NEW LIFE
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The inside track on faith in football
CHURCH “From here we can open a church in Madrid, as there are people who must hear our words.” Kaka and his wife are both evangelical Christians, who are involved with an organisation that preaches the gospel.
I haven’t got HULL STRIKER’S PART-TIME ROLE any worries about future
he pastors, he scores... by Hugh Southon
Hull’s top striker Geovanni
HULL CITY’S brilliant frontman Deiberson Geovanni has a part-time role... as a pastor.
❛ Through all my
New Life has already written about the striker’s Christian faith in a previous edition but can now reveal he carries out his duties as a pastor between Hull City’s fixtures. The Brazilian is a humble man like Kaka – the world’s most famous Christian footballer – and is now preaching at a church in Hulme. Another pastor at the church, Mary Lunt, said: “You wouldn’t believe that Dieber is a celebrity when he comes to church - he is so humble. “Of course we respect his talent and professionalism but when he’s here he’s just another worshipper. “Often the place is packed out with children but he never fails to sign every ball and shirt. “They always talk to him about their lives, how God has helped them and how they can keep a positive attitude. G eov a n n i w a s bor n i n t he south east of Brazil and started his career at the age of 18 with America FC. After spells at Barcelona and Benfica he joined Manchester City before moving to The Tigers. The £5m player has scored fantastic goals – notably a 30 yard effort against Arsenal last season.
injuries and the political upheaval at Pompey, I’ve a God-given peace ❜
Defender part of fun night Cherries can rely on my prayers BARNSLEY’S giant defender Darren Moore will team up with a comic Christian preacher at an event in the town this month. The centre-half, right, will tell his testimony before comic Mark Ritchie tells funny stories and preaches the gospel. The event is being held at Brooklands Hotel, near Junction 37 of the M1, on Sunday, September 20 at 6pm. It is being held in conjunction with the International City Church, which has churches in Doncaster and Barnsley. For further details, visit www. internationalcitychurch.com
PORTSMOUTH FC is going through one of the most unsettling periods of its history with nobody quite sure when the club is finally going to have a new owner. In the meantime players have been sold and our chief executive Peter Storries has said that until the outlook improves the bank won’t help us out. I can understand why the fans and the players are worried and anxious, but as a Christian I really don’t worry at all. I have a complete peace about the whole thing because I know God’s in control. I see this as a great opportunity to witness to those around me. While they are all very much on edge and unsure of what happens next, I know, as a Christian, that someone much bigger than me – the king of the universe, Jesus – has it all worked out. Jesus had far more to withstand when he was on earth but whatever happened he just kept walking forward, fixing his eyes firmly on the Father. And even when he was facing death on a cross for us he d id n’t f l i nc h because he k new the final outcome would be perfect for those he came to save and himself. As a non-believer – and I’ve been one – you a lways have more quest ions tha n answers. The atheists – who a lways attempt to be intellectually superior to Christians – continually say: “Prove God exists.” Well, the truth is I don’t need to – because God has been proving himself quite successfully without any help from me for the last 2,000 years. But it makes the point – there’s no peace at all when you’re in a place of unbelief. Life is all about questions, discussions and arguments. Christians know that Jesus came to earth to save them from the consequences of the sinful behaviour of the first mum and dad in creation – Adam and Eve. And once they have accepted Christ into their lives, having been washed clean of their sins by his blood, we find the meaning of life. Jesus told his disciples that he could give them the peace which passes all understanding, and that describes it perfectly. Through all the injuries I have suffered, and now the political upheaval at Pompey, I have a God-given peace. God has no favourites, and if you accept him into your life you can have the same. Jesus died for you, me, everybody and if there had only been one person on earth he would have come and died for them. I heartily recommend him to you. He’s my saviour, my king and my best friend. He can be yours too… if you let him be.
DESPITE serious financial problems in recent years, the future of AFC Bournemouth is looking bright. And the League Two outfit – nicknamed The Cherries – can rely on the prayers of thei r club chapla i n A ndy Rimmer, right. A ndy, who took on the role t wo yea rs ago, sa id: “Sport and my faith in God are two of my biggest passions and when I
was at university I became involved with a group called Christians in Sport. They are a very big organisation that reaches out to those who combi ne thei r faith with sport, so for me it was ideal. I try and get down to the club at least once a week. Most of the time I go to the training ground to see the injured players, but I also go to the stadium and talk to other staff at the club.”
Linvoy was talking to Hugh Southon
DON’T MISS LINVOY NEXT MONTH ...ONLY IN YOUR NEW LIFE
11
Issue 187 • NEW LIFE 12 NEW LIFE
city star Robinho gives all credit for his talent to God c
STAR... Robinho
MaNCHESTEr City superstar robinho Ma has given thanks to God for him be becoming a top footballer. The Brazilian – who was the first major signing at the mega-rich club – has often been seen as having “at “attitude”, but in a revealing interview he has made it clear that God has to be given all the glory for however he distributes gifts. He declared: “My game might
EXCLUSIVE by Hugh Southon have been developed in Brazil but God decides who he dishes out what talent to. “and the talent he gave me was to play football and to play a skilful game. Just because it is from God does not mean I am not looking to improve. But there is no doubt in my mind
that it is God-given and without him I would have absolutely nothing. Speaking just ahead of the new season, the City playmaker said: “I am looking forward to it – all I want to do is play football.
money “People can talk about the money in the game, but all I want to do is play football. I am totally in love with the
game. I had a holiday in Brazil over the summer but even over there I have been playing football on the beach, I don’t know how to stop. “My skill and short game was developed in Brazil, so it means so much to me when I go back home. “But as I say, my game might have been developed in Brazil but God decides who will be given that special talent.”
▲ TWO SENSATIONAL EXCLUSIVES – ONLY IN YOUR No1 NEW LIFE ▼ FRIENDS... former rivals Chris Eubank and Nigel Benn
NEW LIFE
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don’t mISS pompEy Star LInVoy prImUS’ GrEat CoLUmn PAGe 11
I ALWAYS PRAY FOR EU, CHRIS! Former British boxing EXCLUSIVE by Matthew Murray champ Nigel Benn says he PrAYS for old rival he has. He exclusively told New Life: “Chris Eubank needs Jesus, Chris eubank. he really does. I would love for him
The legendary fights between the pair in the early 90s are often described as the best in British boxing history. Eubank and Benn were both middleweight and super middleweight world champions during their careers. In the famous clashes, thousands attended whilst it’s claimed an incredible half a billion tuned in to watch on TV. But, at least on Benn’s part, public hatred and anger have been replaced with love and care. The former Dark Destroyer, now a committed Christian, says he prays for Eubank, and longs for him to find God in the same way
to truly find Jesus. I hope that he hears this message and comes to know Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour. “Chris was once my enemy, and boy did he bash me around a bit, but I love him and pray that he will one day know God for himself.
blessing “When I first met Chris we were so ignorant but a blessing has come out of it. How can I hate a man as a born-again Christian? We had a good time and made something good out of something that was bad. “But Praise God I thank the Lord
I DESTROY DARKNESS NOW…
for Chris, for putting him there to make me who I am today.” Benn has held Christian beliefs for many years, but claimed he’s only been a ‘proper Christian’ for the last two years. He added: “I had heard of Jesus but I had one foot in the world and one foot with Christ. I wasn’t getting any victory. It was only two years ago that I truly became born-again. “It’s only through Jesus that we get true victory. ‘A big house and a Bentley won’t make you happy, only Jesus. I know of a pop star who is worth millions but still hooked on drugs. Why? Because something is missing from his life and that is Jesus Christ!” Now living in Majorca, Benn and wife Caroline travel to churches sharing their story.
HULL StrIKEr GEoVannI’S nEW roLE aS a part-tImE paStor PAGe 11
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DON’T MISS OUR EXCLUSIVE NIGEL BENN INTERVIEW SEE CENTRE PAGES
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