Kia ora tātou,
Getting behind the legend: the inspiring Christian faith of Patrick
For those of Irish heritage, today is a significant day: St Patrick’s Day.
The history of Patrick (c. 389–c.461) has been much obscured by both medieval legend and his appropriation as a cultural symbol.
But Patrick’s Confession (if it is indeed authentically his) indicates some of the facts about Patrick: raised in Britain, he was captured by raiders and enslaved in Ireland. There he profoundly came back to God, and became a man of deep faith, prayer, and vision. After some years he escaped from Ireland, became a monk, heard God’s call to take the Christian message back to pagan Ireland, and saw many Irish come to faith in the living God.
To mark this day, some may want to find Patrick’s Confession
on line, and read about his conversion (2), his robust Trinitarian doctrine (4), his prayer life (16), his inward struggles and spiritual growth (44), his experience of the miraculous (45), his deep roots in scripture (40), his clear commitment to evangelism (40, 50), and his humility (62).
If you want something lighter, see this (but note that the date it gives for Patrick’s birth is several centuries wrong)
A forthcoming evangelism event in New Zealand
It has been confirmed that Franklin Graham, the son of Billy Graham, will be coming to New Zealand in November, speaking at a “God Loves You Tour”. This will be under the auspices of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and will be at no cost to New Zealand churches.
The dates will be 12 Nov. (Christchurch Arena), 16 Nov. (TSB Arena, Wellington), and 19 Nov. (Trusts Arena, Auckland).
Some Christian leaders in New Zealand have raised concerns about controversial public statements Franklin Graham has made in the past, in the context of American culture wars and politics. NZCN fully acknowledges those concerns. We also understand that Mr Graham has given clear assurances that in New Zealand he will be speaking of one thing only: salvation through Jesus Christ.
The New Zealand organisers of this tour also emphasise the benefits to New Zealand churches of the extensive evangelism and discipleship training that will precede the events.
To learn more, see the God Loves You Tour website
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