philo magazine summer 2009 issue

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INSIDE.J.JOHN VISITS ETHIOPIA WITH COMPASSION

JUST10 WINCHESTER & WATFORD

MEET ASSOCIATE JODIE COLLINS

J.JOHN CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF MINISTRY

AND MUCH MORE

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• R.T. Kendall, who has provided friendship and frequent theological dialogue.• Rodney Howard-Browne, who channelled God’s grace and presence into my life.• David Pytches, who introduced me into a New Wine network.• Mike Pilavachi, who provided 20 years of Soul Survivor preaching.• Ian Hamilton, who introduced me to the remarkable ministry of COMPASSION.• Andrew White, who introduced me to the Middle East with more than just spice!• Phil Baker, who opened up the world of Australia.• Joyce Meyer, who inspired me to a new level of ministry.• Bobbie Houston, who introduced me to a new world of COLOUR.• All my publishers, especially to Malcolm Down of Authentic Media.• All my colleagues, past and present, who have been such an amazing support.• All my Trustees over the years, who have advised, counselled and overseen the ministry.• All my family and close friends (you know who you are) with whom we break bread, laugh and cry.• My sons, Michael, Simeon and Benjamin, who have taught me more than any sermon.• My partner in life and ministry, my daily support and inspiration – my wife Killy.

And thank you to all who have supported me and our ministry along the journey with hospitality, a word of encouragement, a card, a smile or a gift, THANK YOU.

In Matthew 13:52 Jesus says: ‘... every teacher of the law who has been instructed about the kingdom of heaven is like the owner

A comedian was once asked what he would like people to say about him in 100 years’ time and he replied, ‘I’d like them to say, “He looks pretty good for his age.” ’

As we look back over the past 30 years of ministry throughout the UK, and in 58 countries on five continents; at the thousands of people who have come to Christ; at the prodigal children that have come home; at the people whose lives and lifestyles have been transformed through just10; and at the generosity and support of all our prayer partners, we can only say, ‘To God be the glory... great things He has done.’

So many people have been encouragers on the journey, but I would like to make special mention of the following people: • Andy Economides, who introduced me to Christ in 1975 when we were students in London, and who continues to be my dear friend and adviser.• Kenneth Habershon, who nurtured me at Limpsfield.• Rob and Anna Richards, who encouraged me since we were students at St John’s College in Nottingham in 1978.• David and Joyce Huggett, who invited me on to the staff team of St Nicholas Church, Nottingham as Director of Evangelism in 1980.• David Shearman, who for 30 years has inspired faith in me and motivated me to expect more from God.• Eric Delve, who took me on as his assistant evangelist in 1980 and introduced me to evangelistic preaching and missions.• Michael Green, who advised me in my early years and continues to be an encourager today.• Leighton Ford, who has been an adviser and friend.• Steve Chalke, who inspired creativity in me.

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We have endeavoured to always be faithful in our communication of the timeless, unchanging message of the gospel of Jesus Christ, but have tried to convey it in as many contemporary ways as we can. As we look to the next decade of our ministry, we are as fervent and zealous as we were when we began 30 years ago, and eager (or should I say a little wiser!) to discover how to work ‘sharper’ rather than ‘harder’, and how we can multiply our ministry through our Associates.

As you read through our 30th Anniversary magazine edition, I hope you will give thanks to God with us for our ministry, and pray for us as we prepare for new conferences (Girl Talk and Evangelists’ Conference) and new initiatives (getting 2010+ churches to run just10 in 2010).

We are delighted to be touring 21 cities and towns in September and October with COMPASSION, Authentic Media, Dave Hill, Michael John and Nicki Rogers, talking about life, ministry, COMPASSION and my new books, The Happiness Secret and Breaking the News. Please check the tour locations and, if you are nearby, please come and be inspired in your own journey of faith and life.

And, if you don’t mind me saying it, after 30 years we are still looking good! May the Lord ‘renew our youth’ and yours as we press on upward and outward.

Agapé

of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old.’ Matthew wanted us to see how Jesus was deeply rooted in the traditions of Israel – faithful to them and fulfilling them – but also bringing something strikingly new.

The distinction between old and new is something that troubles both the world we live in today and the church. Isn’t it fascinating how products can be advertised in quite contradictory ways? Sometimes we’re encouraged to buy something because it’s ‘new’. And sometimes we’re encouraged to buy something because it’s ‘old’, just how things used to be, traditional or what our granny would have used! So we drink tea ‘like tea used to be’ and use washing powder which is forever ‘new’ and ‘improved’. We like the latest iPhone, but we want antique-looking pine in our kitchens. In the patchwork world we now live in, which is called post-modernity, we can’t decide whether old or new is best.

In the world of the church, we may divide ourselves up according to whether we like ‘traditional hymns’ or ‘new worship songs’ and whether we’d rather have the old pews or buy new chairs. Sometimes in the church we marginalise those who are ‘older’ and long only for ‘young’ people and ‘new families’ to join us – and sometimes we are fearful of anything new.

But Jesus said that when we are disciples in the kingdom of heaven, we are like those who can produce both the old and the new. It is always tempting to choose one or the other, either to hold on to the comfort and reassurance of the past or to sweep it away. However, in the matter of faith, a broader landscape lies before us. The faith we share is rooted in ancient and holy stories. It is also a brave and moving story of a pilgrim people, always moving on to new places, but taking with them the treasures of the old. This is, I think, what is meant when we are told that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.

eLETTER SIGN UP.J.John writes a bi-weekly eLetter to encourage, inspire and help our supporters keep in touch

with ministry events. If you’d like to subscribe visit WWW.PHILOTRUST.COM/ELETTER

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The First Word 02 - 03just10 missions ‘09 06 - 09

just10 in 2010 10Associate Profile: Jodie Collins 11An Evening with J.John 12 - 13J.John 30 years of ministry 14 - 16The Jesus I Know 18 - 19The Story of Ganet 20 - 21From Here to Ethiopia 22 - 23

Events & Prayer Diary 24 - 26Events Feedback 27Too Many Films Too Little Time 28 - 29Office News 31

INSIDE.

FROM HERE TO ETHIOPIA

By BERNADETTE OCAMPO PA to J.John

On our very last night, a dinner was held at our hotel for the young adults who had been through all the stages of the programmes. Tears were shed as the students shared how sponsorship had benefited them and their families; one was working for Compassion, another was studying to be a doctor and another to be an engineer. They expressed how thankful they were to their sponsor, Compassion and, most of all, for having the Lord in their lives.

I was touched by their humility; their ambition to make something of their lives and the drive to want to help their parents, brothers and sisters as a result of having been blessed through sponsorship. Moreover, I was struck by the amount of faith, love, hope and trust they had in God. That no matter how little they had, they were truly grateful for what they did have.

So to finish, the group of thirteen who went to Ethiopia experienced the extraordinary. Together we laughed, cried and were encouraged, inspired, humbled and moved by Compassion and the work that they do. Even though they are poor, they are rich in fullness of Christ in their lives, possessing everything through Him, in Him and with Him.

If you are able to sponsor a child in need for just £21 per month (80p a day) or would like to know more about the work of Compassion, please visit www.compassionuk.org

In March 2009, I had the privilege of accompanying J.John and Killy to Ethiopia with Compassion.

Compassion is a child advocacy ministry founded in 1952. Originally reaching out to Korean War orphans, it now aids more than 1 million children in 24 other countries. Through local churches, it helps to release children from spiritual, economic, social and physical poverty to enable them to become responsible, fulfilled Christian adults. The name ‘Compassion’ was taken from Colossians 3:12, “…clothe yourselves with compassion .”

We were based in Addis Ababa throughout the week. On our first day we were met by the Compassion ET staff and their Director, Tsehaywota Tadesse. He told us about the history of Ethiopia, his testimony, how he came to work for Compassion ET and what it does. It has three programmes: the Child Survival Programme (CSP) – which is the care before and after birth; the Child Development Sponsorship Programme (CDSP) which aids development through sponsorship, and the Leadership Development Programme (LDP) which supports higher education and leadership training.

As we visited the projects, I learned what each involved and how sponsoring that one child helped his/her entire family with food, shelter, education and health care; as well as guiding and encouraging them along with Christian living, values and principles.

We always visited the church and its Elders first. In Wolisso, 114 kilometres outside Addis, the church started with 70 members but through the CSP programme now has 2,500 members. After a welcome, we visited families who had a child in the programme. With the help of a translator, we asked questions and talked with the family. They showed us around their house, which took only a second or two as it was just a large room with a row of bamboos to separate the kitchen and the bedroom which seven of them, including the grandfather, shared. The one bed was a mattress of twigs covered by a rag sheet. The mother, eight months pregnant with her fourth child, was a part of the CSP with the youngest son. This meant that she would be cared for and given medical care should she need it. Learning how the programme helped the whole family and seeing their home environment humbled me and made me more thankful for what I already have.

WWW.PHILOTRUST.COM PHILO MAGAZINE

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FEATURE.

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THE JESUS I KNOW

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It seems like yesterday that I was writing an article for the Spring magazine with our hopes and prayers for all that God had in store for us with the just10Winchester mission. Yet here we are looking back now and praising Him that all those prayers were answered.

By the time the mission started we had a total of 35 Partner Churches from across the area. The great sense of unity and joy as we worked together on just10 was wonderful and it is good and right that each and every prayer, penny and piece of practical help was essential to making the event happen.

We welcomed people each Wednesday night into nine venues – four in Winchester and five in outlying areas. J.John spoke live at Winchester Cathedral and then our live satellite link was watched in the city at The Vineyard Church, The Middle Brook Centre and a specially designated youth venue at Christ Church. We were thrilled that the experience was also shared in five other venues. We praise God for the technology and skilled team that made these live links possible and enabled many more people to join in with the mission than would have otherwise.

The youth venue had a slightly different timetable for each evening, serving pizzas from 7pm and then joining in the live link at 7.30pm with all the other venues. We praise God for all the work done in the hearts of the teenagers that gathered there each week. Indeed the attendance figures for this venue grew at a great rate over the next few weeks!

Between the venues we had more than 2,500 people attending each week and we praise God for all those individuals coming and hearing God’s message to them through J.John, and many learning of the Gospel for the first time. Hundreds and hundreds of response packs were given out to those who boldly came forward at the end of the sessions to make a public response to God’s call. Of course we will never know of

It was just so exciting to experience God’s powerful blessing on our area during these ten weeks with reports of conversations about God and faith in workplaces and at the school gates that had never happened before. We are confident these opportunities arose because of the focused prayer for evangelism and the furthering of God’s kingdom in and around Winchester this Spring. We were also grateful that so many Christians were ready to answer these inquiries because of the encouraging and practical teaching received through the Breaking News series, which we ran in small groups at the start of the New Year.

After week three, when we looked at ‘How to Prosper with a Clear Conscience,’ we saw money and stolen items put in the amnesty bins that J.John introduced as a way to be free of things obtained dishonestly. One elderly gentleman said that he was so pleased he would finally be free of the burden of having stolen in his youth by seeking forgiveness from God and making restitution by sending that money to charity the next day. The knowledge of his past dishonesty had kept him from ever experiencing real peace all those years. Praise God that peace is now restored!

I know that we will carry on hearing stories of how people in and around Winchester have been blessed through this just10 mission for many years to come. We are now praising God wholeheartedly as we welcome people into our churches as a result of attending the event who want to know more. We even held a special baptism service at the end of June for people who had felt led to making this decision through attending the series. As basic Christianity courses begin across the area this autumn, it will be a joy to know that the journey that started for so many this spring will now be continuing in local churches, where we pray that God will indeed bless and confirm His mighty work in them all. Hallelujah!

Karin Ling Project Manager

winchester

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THE STORY OF GANET20-21

Evangelists’ Monday 11th – Wednesday 13th

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 0

J.John and Andy Economides are hosting an Evangelists’ Conference in January 2010 specifically for those called to ‘do the work of an evangelist’.

This will be a time to be renewed, inspired and encouraged. It is also an opportunity for fellowship and to network with other evangelists.

Speakers include Dr R.T. Kendall, Revd Barry Kissell and Dr Michael Ramsden; worship leaders Dave Edwards and Nicki Rogers; chaplain Revd Eric Delve.

The cost of £225 (single) or £195 (to share) includes meals, accommodation and use of facilities, at Denham Grove (near Junctions 16/17 of the M25 and Junction 1 of the M40).

We hope that the cost will not prevent you from booking and, where appropriate, your church or ministry will cover your costs.

(Unfortunately, we are unable to accept day or partial bookings.)

Places are limited. Please book in advance by requesting an application form from Bernadette Ocampo ([email protected]).

NB: a non-refundable deposit of £45 will be required to secure your booking.

WWW.PHILOTRUST.COM/EVANGELISTS

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It seems like yesterday that I was writing an article for the Spring magazine with our hopes and prayers for all that God had in store for us with the just10 Winchester mission. Yet here we are looking back now and praising Him that all those prayers were answered.

By the time the mission started we had a total of 35 Partner Churches from across the area. The great sense of unity and joy as we worked together on just10 was wonderful and it is good and right that each and every prayer, penny and piece of practical help was essential to making the event happen.

We welcomed people each Wednesday night into nine venues – four in Winchester and five in outlying areas. J.John spoke live at Winchester Cathedral and then our live satellite link was watched in the city at The Vineyard Church, The Middle Brook Centre and a specially designated youth venue at Christ Church. We were thrilled that the experience was also shared in five other venues. We praise God for the technology and skilled team that made these live links possible and enabled many more people to join in with the mission than would have otherwise.

The youth venue had a slightly different timetable for each evening, serving pizzas from 7pm and then joining in the live link at 7.30pm with all the other venues. We praise God for all the work done in the hearts of the teenagers that gathered there each week. Indeed the attendance figures for this venue grew at a great rate over the weeks!

Between the venues we had more than 2,500 people attending each week and we praise God for all those individuals coming and hearing God’s message to them through J.John, and many learning of the Gospel for the first time. Hundreds and hundreds of response packs were given out to those who boldly came forward at the end of the sessions to make a public response to God’s call. Of course we will never know of all the work that has gone on privately in people’s hearts and minds, and rightly so.

winchester


It was just so exciting to experience God’s powerful blessing on our area during these ten weeks with reports of conversations about God and faith, in workplaces and at the school gates, that had never happened before. We are confident these opportunities arose because of the focused prayer for evangelism and the furthering of God’s kingdom in and around Winchester this Spring. We were also grateful that so many Christians were ready to answer these inquiries because of the encouraging and practical teaching received through the Breaking News series, which we ran in small groups at the start of the year.

After week three, when we looked at ‘How to Prosper with a Clear Conscience,’ we saw money and stolen items put in the amnesty bins that J.John introduced as a way to be free of things obtained dishonestly. One elderly gentleman said that he was so pleased he would finally be free of the burden of having stolen in his youth by seeking forgiveness from God and making restitution by sending that money to charity the next day. The knowledge of his past dishonesty had kept him from ever experiencing real peace all those years. Praise God that peace is now restored!

I know that we will carry on hearing stories of how people in and around Winchester have been blessed through this just10 mission for many years to come. We are now praising God wholeheartedly as we welcome people, who want to know more, into our churches as a result of attending the event. We even held a special baptism service at the end of June for people who had felt led to making this decision through attending the series. As basic Christianity courses begin across the area this autumn, it will be a joy to know that the journey that started for so many this spring will now be continuing in local churches, where we pray that God will indeed bless and confirm His mighty work in them all. Hallelujah!

Karin Ling Project Managerjust10 Winchesterwww.just10winch.org.uk


watfordjust10 at Soul Survivor Watford has come to an end and it has been an amazing ten weeks. Each week hundreds of people gathered in two warehouses in Watford to listen to J.John’s message about how the Ten Commandments relate to everyday life. How, instead of being a list of do’s and don’ts, they are still a relevant framework for our lives today.

Having just10 at both of our warehouses meant that, for the first time at Soul Survivor Watford, we were able to video link live the message from one warehouse to another. This has never been done before at church and it was a great success that made sharing of fellowship across two venues possible.

Focussing on one Commandment each week through a DVD, drama and talk, we were able to look in-depth and with much scope of how that Commandment fitted into our hectic, 21st century lifestyles.

Each topic brought its own challenges as people listened to the message given by J.John. They were made aware of the issues in their own lives and how there was a need to address these. It was great, as one big family, to grapple with the issues brought to us and, in doing so, lots of people were released from past hurts as there was a great response to what was brought to us.

Through these weeks we have seen the church family of Soul Survivor Watford brought together as they served and hosted the event: from car parking stewards to people running the café; from the welcome team to the people baking cakes, everyone at Soul Survivor Watford had a part to play. We were also joined by other churches across Watford who cancelled their evening services to come and be part of just10. Evangelistically this was a great opportunity for people to invite their friends and many did as there were lots of new faces at church.


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All the talks had an evangelistic message, as well as a ‘how to’ of living according to God’s plan. The message of Jesus was given in a fresh way each week and with each talk everyone had the opportunity to start a relationship with God and to sort things out in their lives that weren’t in line with God’s will.

One of the young people that came said, “there were lots and lots of people who came that never visit church. I brought my mate and he really enjoyed it … I think that J.John is really good and his sermons are very helpful in everyday life. The atmosphere is intense and full of worship.”

Another one said, “I think it’s very down-to-earth and not intimidating at all, which is always the danger with a lot of Christians gathered together! J.John speaks on relevant things that actually affect our lives!”

We have enjoyed having just10 at Soul Survivor Watford and will miss it now that it is over. We are really looking forward to our end-of-course celebration BBQ in July where we are going to invite people to share their testimonies of what God has done in their lives over the ten weeks.

Gemma FosterAssistant Pastor Soul Survivor Watfordwww.soulsurvivorwatford.co.uk


OUT NOW.The brand new just10 DVD

series (including study material) is now available priced only £40

(including P&P*)

WWW.PHILOTRUST.COM *within the UK only

TAKING UP THE CHALLANGE.


beginning to move beyond these shores internationally. Thirdly, we have received a substantial, designated financial gift which will underpin the cost of support for these missions which Philo Trust is determined to provide.

So what next? We believe that if 2,010 churches present just10 in the Autumn of next year, the impact will be timeless. The resources are designed to remain relevant if there are 2,000 or 20 participants.

Here’s the challenge. Will you commit to supporting this in your fellowship by doing just10 next year and become part of a movement for change? Maybe the last 10 years has been our preparation and next year, with God’s help, we can change a nation.

If you are interested, please e: [email protected]: 01923 287777 w: www.philotrust.com/2010

The just10 missions in Winchester and Soul Survivor Watford this Spring were the 29th and 30th that J.John has conducted since they started a decade ago. The total attendance during this time has exceeded 500,000 and so many lives have been changed forever.

When we’ve reflected on the last 10 years, we’ve been continually surprised and moved by stories of lives changed, hope restored and needs met; that something as ancient as God’s original plan for humanity should remain as powerful and relevant today. For so many nations, the Ten Commandments prevail as the basis for their statutory law and national values.

This past year we’ve been asking God what his plans are for the next season of just10. Do we continue with the same pattern we’ve used to date; is it time to move to a different focus or what?

In January this year, J.John was approached by a group of Christian leaders with a challenge: to do just10 as a national mission in 2010; for every city in the land to spend 10 weeks where its churches reintroduce their communities to these timeless truths. They felt strongly that this was God inspired, something that was right and timely for the nation, something prophetic. Theirs was a vision to see many hundreds of churches declaring the Creator’s blueprint once more - specifically, to see 2,010 churches doing just10 in 2010.

Over the weeks that followed, this vision has been tested and remains resonant. Firstly, we now have a brand new suite of resources that will facilitate local church just10 missions including the Breaking News evangelism training course, a brand new DVD series boxset with leader’s guide, and forthcoming planning and speakers’ manuals. Secondly, the support of church leaders and denominations is growing and spreading. It’s

in2010

Jodie was brought up in a family where Jesus was known and followed. She is passionate and compassionate about loving the lost and the broken, and about the Church being God’s hands and feet in this world.

ASSOCIATE PROFILE.

JODIE COLLINSwww.philotrust.com/jodie_collins

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After graduating from Cambridge University, Jodie qualified as a teacher and taught in a Primary School for two years. She then felt called to move to Tenerife with The Grassroots Trust to be a part of a team at The Living Room Christian Centre. The Living Room is in the heart of Veronicas, Playa de Las Americas, surrounded by the bars and clubs where many young British people work. The workers are mostly aged between 18 and 30 and go out there in search of a fun life in the sun. Many of them are let down by what Tenerife has to offer and soon find themselves mixed up in an environment that revolves around alcohol, drugs and sex. Jodie worked with the team reaching out to the workers in the bars and clubs with friendship and love in the name of Jesus.

Jodie lives in North London and heads up Beyond Ourselves, a registered UK charity, started by a local business who wanted to use their time, skill and profits to make a difference beyond themselves, both at home and abroad. The current projects are in London and Copperbelt, Zambia.

In Zambia, Beyond Ourselves is working with a local church and community school to help transform the lives of the lost and broken; in particular the orphans, widows and vulnerable children. Here in the UK, Jodie hopes to invest in the communities surrounding each of the businesses in the London area, by connecting with local schools and churches.

Jodie’s heart is to build relationships within the communities she finds herself a part of and to invest in them practically, as well as share the love of Jesus and make Him known. She is also a gifted speaker and communicator and loves to share God’s heart with others.

Over recent years J.John and Killy have become good family friends. They are a source of much support and encouragement to Jodie, both in her personal life and in her ministry. She is so thankful to them for all that they have invested in her so far and it is a real privilege to be an Associate of Philo Trust.

Jodie can be contacted t: 020 8364 2474e: [email protected] w: www.beyondourselves.co.uk

‘I am delighted to commend Jodie. She is an absolute tonic and an excellent speaker and evangelist. If you are considering an evangelistic meeting or mission, seriously consider inviting Jodie.’

J.John

Singer-songwriter Nicki Rogers, an Associate of Philo Trust, has toured with J.John in the past. She has released two solo albums, Colour Scheme and Feeder Lane, and she is in the middle of recording her third.

Michael John and Dave Hill will be the presenters on the tour. They have impressive and varied CVs including radio, TV, live drama and documentaries.

If you’re planning to come, be prepared to be entertained, inspired and challenged. There will be quite a lot of laughter!

The tickets will be only £5 each which will not only allow you entrance, but will double up as a voucher that is redeemable when you buy resources* during the tour.

We strongly advise booking in advance so please visit website for details.

WWW.PHILOTRUST.COM/TOUR*Terms and conditions will apply.

This September and October we hit the road! For two months we - that is J.John, with musician Nicki Rogers and actors and presenters Dave Hill and Michael John - will be touring the UK. September marks 30 years of ministry for J.John, so the multi-media evenings - with interviews and music - will also feature a short historical film.

The tour will cover much of the UK and is supported by Compassion, Wesley Owen, UCB and Authentic Media.

an evening with J.John tour


‘j.john is a superb communicator and he is a man who lives out what he teaches. he is always down to earth, humorous and practical.’nicky gumbel

‘water to those of us that thirst!’bear grylls

2nd September Chorleywood7th September Bangor, N. Ireland8th September Lisburn, N. Ireland9th September Belfast, N. Ireland14th September Liverpool16th September Ashford17th September Winchester21st September Norfolk23rd September Felixstowe24th September Luton28th September Solihull

with hosts dave hill & michael john & singer nicki rogers

29th September Stoke on Trent30th September Newport 5th October Colchester6th October Lincoln7th October Nottingham8th October Watford13th October Gateshead14th October Stockton19th October Cheltenham20th October Manchester21st October St Albans

For a complete list of dates, venues and ticket information go online to WWW.PHILOTRUST.COM/TOUR


an evening with J.John tour

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Andy Economides introduces J.John to Christ while at Hendon College in London

‘75

Student at St John’s College, Nottingham

‘78

Begins ministry at the Christian Renewal Centre, Rostrevor, N. Ireland

‘79

Philo Trust was established to support his ministry

‘80

First ministry trip to USA

‘82

First ministry trips to Australia and CanadaFirst book ‘Life Means What?’ Is published

‘85

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just10 missions in Chorleywood and London

‘98

just10 missions in Chester, Oxford, London and Loughborough, Cheam and Coventry

‘99

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‘LIFE MEANS WHAT’ (1985) Highly sought after on eBay!

EARLY PHILO TRUST NEWSLETTERS FROM THE 1980’S

A MINISTRY TIME LINE

START HEREu

THE ORIGINAL GREEKJ.John at eighteen

Killy and their family move from Nottingham to Chorleywood

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Visits Israel and Palestine with Canon Andrew White

just10 missions in Colchester, Beaconsfield, St Albans, Bath and Coventry

‘Easter Sonrise’, ‘Ten’ and ‘Calling Out’ are published

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Speaks at Eton College

Just10 missions in Liverpool and Luton

‘God’s Priorities’ is published ‘Ten’ is launched as a video series

‘02

Appointed Honorary Canon of Coventry CathedralVisits Brazil with Compassion

‘The Life – A Portrait of Jesus’ is published

‘01u

Presents a series of six ‘Thought for the Day’ talks on Radio 2 Philo partners with 102 prisons to show the ‘Ten’ video seriesSpeaks to 25,000 young people at Christival Festival in Germany

just10 missions in Norfolk and York

‘Walking with God’ and ‘Marriage Works’ are published

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just10 missions in ‘SoulintheCityLondon’ at St Paul’s Cathedral, and just10 South Londonjust10 South London was relayed live on God TV

Speaks at Joyce Meyer conference at Birmingham NEC

The ‘Relationship Series’ of 3 books are launched ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ Christmas book is published

‘04u

Visits Kenya with Compassion

just10 missions in Bangor, N. Ireland and Lincolnshire

‘With No Apology’ DVD is launched ‘A Christmas Compendium’ is published

‘05u

Visits the Gaza Strip with Canon Andrew White

just10 mission in Devon

‘Breaking News’ is launched

MP3 audio and MP4 video streaming and downloads are available on Philo’s website

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Speaks at Hillsong’s Colour Women’s conferences in London and Sydney, AustraliaNumber of Philo Associates increases to 26

’26 Steps to Heaven’ is published‘Christmas Unwrapped’ is launched as a DVD

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Ministers in South Africa, Hawaii, Manchester, London, San Diego – California, Cornwall and CyprusSpeaks at Hillsong’s Colour Women’s conferences in London and Sydney, Australia

Just10 missions in Chorleywood and North East England

‘08

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Visits Ethiopia with Compassion

just10 missions in Winchester and Soul Survivor Watford

‘The Happiness Secret’ and ‘Breaking the News’ are published

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‘THE HAPPINESSSECRET’ (2009)J.John’s latest book(see page 17)

THE ‘TEN’ SERIESVIDEOS (2001)Have now been replaced by just10DVDs (2009)

PHILO TRUSTThe Philo Trust logountil 2006

I was so impressed by the early J.John that I wrote a full page article in the Church Times to introduce people to him. After that he has needed no introductions! He is a dear friend, a very hard worker, delightful company, and an extremely clear evangelist who has led thousands to Christ.

I remember once discussing mass evangelism with him - and my impression that it was probably on the way out. He personally proved me wrong.... and I am delighted he did! As a speaker he is extremely well organised and very witty. What people may not realise is that he is highly professional in his application to detail as he prepares. Unusually for a speaker, he seeks to read every new book on evangelism that comes out, as well as having a reflective day away in a monastery on a regular basis.

If we had half a dozen more J. John’s we might change the face of England.

REVD DR MICHAEL GREEN

J.John and his lovely wife Killy are a truly wonderful couple, who have faithfully sown their lives for the past 30 years to bring hope and grace (and of course, laughter) to countless lives. Brian and I are honoured to know them, we thank them for the powerful contribution they have been to our church and ministry, and we sincerely pray that God will continue to bless, lead and use them powerfully and strategically in the amazing days we are all entering.

BRIAN AND BOBBIE HOUSTON - HILLSONG CHURCH

They say it’s 30 years of ministry for J.John. He doesn’t look old enough - but it’s true! I watched him take early steps of faith amid feelings of fear; come to believe who he was as a man of God, and receive both a rebuke and encouragement. Am I surprised at his ‘success’? No! Do I celebrate with all those he has helped to find and follow the Lord? Yes, Yes, Yes! The Bible says ,”as is the man, so is his strength” (Judges 8:21). My prayer is that John will go from strength to strength.

DAVID SHEARMAN - CHRISTIAN CENTRE, NOTTINGHAM

What I admire most about J.John is his love for the glory of God rather than what people think of him. He is unashamed of the Gospel as revealed in the Bible and preaches it with power and relevance like few in our day can do. This is partly because of his natural ability but mostly because of the anointing of the Spirit on him. Few can communicate as he does. He is today’s man and tomorrow’s man in one package, and I predict that his greatest usefulness is in days ahead not in the past. Finally, I am blessed to be able to call him my friend.

DR. R. T. KENDALL - R.T. KENDALL MINISTRIES

J.John continues to inspire by offering the Good News of Christ not just in a way that is comprehensible, relevant and practical to people today. He uses all of his God given gifts to continue to draw people to Christ – the Christ that is get-able for us all. J.John’s re-examination of the Ten Commandments, through just10, illustrates both their continuing application in our modern world and his unswerving ability to make them relevant to all people.

DR. JOHN SENTAMU - ARCHBISHOP OF YORK

I cannot tell you how delighted I am with the amazing things that God has done in J.John’s life. I am thrilled, honoured and excited to have been part of the start of such an amazing ministry.

ERIC DELVE - EVANGELIST

J.John is amongst the best evangelists and ambassadors for Christ anywhere in the world, ever. Thousands upon thousands have come to Christ through the Gospel he has proclaimed and the Church refreshed. I am so happy to have led him to Christ during our student days in London.

ANDY ECONOMIDES - SOTERIA TRUST

Not only is J.John a brilliant, witty, powerful communicator of the good news of Jesus Christ in the public arena, he is also a remarkable husband, father and friend to many. I consider it a privilege to know him and have hugely appreciated his friendship over the years.

NICKY GUMBEL - HTB

J. John may well be one of the most effective evangelists coming out of the UK in years. His mix of humor and storytelling melts hearts.

JOYCE MEYER - JOYCE MEYER MINISTRIES

WHAT OTHERSSAY



IT’S SOMETHING WE ALL WANT, BUT WHAT IS HAPPINESS, AND WHERE CAN WE FIND IT?

In this thoughtful and uplifting book, inspirational speaker J.John takes a look at the most famous teachings of Jesus – the Beatitudes – finding clues to help us embrace a life of joy and fulfilment. He unpacks each of Jesus’ great sayings, placing them in their first-century context and also reveals how they are applicable in our lives today. Ultimately, he suggests that if we seek happiness directly we may never find it; but if instead we seek a life of fulfilment we will find true and lasting happiness.

Accessible and down-to-earth, The Happiness Secret is a practical guide to attaining fulfilment and meaning in life as well as the perfect inspirational read.

£10.00 from www.philotrust.com

TELL EVERYONE-

THE SECRET’S OUT


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*Price shown excludes postage and packaging

THE JESUS I KNOW

By J.JOHN

When thirteen-year-old David was asked what he knew about Jesus, he replied, ‘Why was he named after a swear word?’

Jesus. A name that stirs up such controversy, yet the reputation of this man has withstood scrutiny for 2000 years. Today, passing a high-street surfing shop, his name is branded across merchandise: Jesus surfs without a board and Jesus is my homeboy. A mark of our times, perhaps, that this name of such power and significance can be so casually thrown around. One step even further away from the assumption that this name will evoke extreme reactions: either a trust and acceptance of the biblical view of Jesus as God’s Son or a sceptical view, belittling him to the category of a ‘good man’. Now, it seems our culture has broken beyond that, allowing room for its use as a faint, lethargic gag and nothing stronger.

Knowledge of Jesus is commonplace, but can we say that we know Jesus? Certainly, few would deny his existence. Today, a growing body of fifteen hundred million people trace their faith back to this historical figure; historians can verify his existence against Roman records while theologians prove the validity of the Gospels as an authoritative written account of Jesus’ words and actions. We have evidence and confirmation that he lived in Palestine, that he was considered to be the Messiah and that he was executed under Pontius Pilate, who governed Palestine from AD 26 to 36. This was the man, a peasant teacher living on the edge of the map in Judea, who made an impression so big that the normal categories of history and biography did not seem enough and a new literary genre developed to do him justice. Still, can our knowledge of this man rest and lie dormant in historical accounts?

Reading the Gospels, we can know of his life, his teachings and his miracles. This was no ordinary man. He was a man of such power, of peace and of love. This was the man who turned water into wine, drove out demons, fed the five thousand and walked on water. He gave his love and attention to an adulterous woman; he opened the eyes of a man born blind; he taught of his Father in heaven and he called us his friends. Crowds flocked to hear him. A sick woman strained for just a touch of his cloak. A leprous man knelt before him. Wind and waves obeyed his commands. He offered rest for the weary. At the cross, against every human instinct, he offered himself to God as a price for our sin.

FEATURE.

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This Jesus is a rather unsettling figure, who both comforts those who are troubled and troubles those who are comfortable. A man of love, but also radical, commanding and challenging. He tells the rich man that it is harder for him to enter the kingdom of God than it is for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle. He assures us that from those to whom much has been given, much will be demanded. The first will be last and the last will be first, and he professed that anyone who does not give up everything they have to follow him cannot be his disciple. And this is the man who asks us, one by one, ‘Who do you say that I am?’

In 1998, my friend Lee Strobel, a journalist, wrote a book recording his investigation into the evidence of Jesus. He interviewed a scholar, analysed data, and studied the historical evidence, and the influence and effect that Jesus can have on one person’s life.Having assessed all of the evidence, Lee, once a confirmed

atheist, came to faith and trusted the evidence. Yet what is worth recording is not that he could muster sufficient evidence and facts to believe, but that, when he did, his life changed. So much so that a few months after he became a follower of Jesus, his five-year-old daughter told his wife, ‘Mummy, I want God to do for me what he’s done for Daddy.’ [1]

The knowledge and facts of the person of Jesus remain on paper and yet it is this man’s life-transforming impact on those who believe today that marks the Jesus I know. Unless Jesus’ transforming power is real today, he can be no more or less interesting than any other historical figure, than a Henry VIII or a Churchill. The difference lies in the fact that this Jesus is as real today as he is in the historical evidence and, moreover, he connects us to God. This Jesus shows us our God and has made it possible for us to have a relationship with him. ‘If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well.’

The Jesus I know turns lives around and turns our world upside down. Faith in this Jesus gives us a depth and dimension that we cannot experience in any other way. This Jesus takes us, as we are, making us anew as we become children of God; ‘the old has gone, the new has come’. [2] He heals bruised, broken and wounded lives, offering us forgiveness, blessing and guidance. He is the ‘Bread of Life’ who gives us food that sustains, and drink that quenches thirst, and he questions each one of us, as he did Simon Peter, asking, ‘Have I not chosen you?’

Like pieces of a puzzle, we fit together a portrait of this man. The man, without ‘beauty or majesty to attract us to him’. The ‘man of sorrows’, who was ‘familiar with suffering’ [3], and was despised and mocked by his people. A perfect, pure and holy man, a man of such care and compassion, who promises peace and commands us to ‘take heart’ for he has overcome the world. [4] He reveals to us the perfect nature of our God, the God who prepared, planned and pursues us, offering us life, his way, in all its fullness.

We are not called to always understand God’s way, to fathom the mysteries that sometimes seem to shroud our universe, to master contemporary theological debate or even to experience a smooth and unchallenged road of faith. But we can look to this man, our beacon and guide, and recognise the simplicity of God in Jesus. Jesus is not complex or difficult to decipher – his message is simple and clear.

There is simplicity and peace in the Jesus I know. A man, demonstrating a life of love, who demands that we turn from lives that are wrong and follow his lead. A shepherd searching for his lost sheep – and for the thirteen-year-old David who only knows of him as a swear word – and he calls us to go in his name and to do the same.


THE JESUS I KNOW

This article has been taken from a new book compiled by Adam Harbinson called ‘The Jesus I Know’. The book contains 39 chapters from different authors explaining who Jesus is to them.


[1] ‘The Case for Christ’. Lee Strobel Zondervan 1998. p269[2] 2 Corinthians 5 v17[3] Isaiah 53[4] John 16 v 33

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THE STORY OF GANET

By J.JOHN

How can a God of love allow suffering? Have you ever wondered this? Ever considered what His response to such pain might be? Ever tried to close the gaping hole in the paradox of love and sovereignty vs. pointless, undeserved hardship? For some this question is too big, the gap remains too wide and it’s used as evidence against a loving God’s existence. All the best apologetics and theological arguments still sound hollow against the tapestry of painful experience. I have to confess that even if my brain does understand, my heart can be left wanting.

So let me introduce you to Ganet. A beautiful 20 year old woman living in the stunning countryside surrounding Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She was born partially crippled and so, all her life, she has crawled on hands and knees to get around. Her makeshift bandages and callous hands are a reminder to the hostile, uncarpeted environment that she makes her way through each day. Three years ago Ganet was raped. This left her humiliated, disgraced, expelled from her family home and pregnant. She was alone and in desperate need to ensure survival for her and the child growing within. It was here that she cried out to God asking for His provision, protection and for intervention in this desperate situation.

The next day a worker from the local church came to visit having heard of her plight from a villager. They were in partnership with Compassion and were running a Child Support Program (CSP) which seeks to come alongside mothers from pregnancy through a child’s first three years. They agreed to support Ganet, giving her food, health care, education and a community and a place of belonging. Her child too would be cared for and given a safe place to play and learn. Instantly her prayers were answered, God had made a way. His Kingdom was coming, through the local church. As a result of being accepted on this program, her dignity was restored and her family once again welcomed her in.

FEATURE.

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THE STORY OF GANET

My wife, Killy, and our friends, Dave and Julie Hill, visited Ganet with her 2 ½ year old son Daniel. She has taught him to hold on to her back as she crawls to church, which in the rainy season can take her an hour. But she doesn’t complain, in fact she didn’t complain once. Her heart is thankful she says to know that God hears and answers her prayers; to experience His provision; to know His protection and to have hope for herself and for Daniel. And how does she know this? Through the local church, supported by Compassion. This community is God’s hands and feet to so many like Ganet, not just helping those in their time of need but equipping them to stand upon their own two feet, and to someone like Ganet - who stands prouder than most - as one who understands God’s heart of compassion and redemption in a suffering world.

J.John

Since J.John and Killy met Ganet, Compassion have been able to organise specialist medical treatment for her which will enable her to walk for the first time in her life. Praise be to God and the ministry of Compassion.

For many years, J.John and Killy have been advocates for Compassion which aims to alleviate the suffering of children in some of the world’s poorest countries through sponsorship. J.John has accompanied Compassion on several overseas’ trips and this report was written following their recent trip to Ethiopia.

If you feel stirred to learn more about the ministry of Compassion or to sponsor a child, please visit their website www.compassionuk.org t: 01932 836490e: [email protected]


FROM HERE TO ETHIOPIA

By BERNADETTE OCAMPO PA to J.John

In March 2009, I had the privilege of accompanying J.John and Killy to Ethiopia with Compassion.

Compassion is a child advocacy ministry founded in 1952. Originally reaching out to Korean War orphans, it now aids more than 1 million children in 24 other countries. Through local churches, it helps to release children from spiritual, economic, social and physical poverty to enable them to become responsible, fulfilled Christian adults. The name ‘Compassion’ was taken from Colossians 3:12, “…clothe yourselves with compassion .”

We were based in Addis Ababa throughout the week. On our first day we were met by the Compassion ET staff and their Director, Tsehaywota Tadesse. He told us about the history of Ethiopia, his testimony, how he came to work for Compassion ET and what it does. It has three programmes: the Child Survival Programme (CSP) – which is the care before and after birth; the Child Development Sponsorship Programme (CDSP) which aids development through sponsorship, and the Leadership Development Programme (LDP) which supports higher education and leadership training.

As we visited the projects, I learned what each involved and how sponsoring that one child helped his/her entire family with food, shelter, education and health care; as well as guiding and encouraging them along with Christian living, values and principles.

We always visited the church and its Elders first before making home visits. In Wolisso, 114 kilometres outside Addis, the church started with 70 members but through the CSP programme now has 2,500 members. After a welcome, we visited families who had a child in the programme. With the help of a translator, we asked questions and talked with the family. They showed us around their house, which took only a second or two as it was just a large room with a row of bamboos to separate the kitchen and the bedroom which seven of them, including the grandfather, shared. The one bed was a mattress of twigs covered by a rag sheet. The mother, eight months pregnant with her fourth child, was a part of the CSP with the youngest son. This meant that she would be cared for and given medical care should she need it. Learning how the programme helped the whole family and seeing their home environment humbled me and made me more thankful for what I already have.


FEATURE.

On our very last night, a dinner was held at our hotel for the young adults who had been through all the stages of the programmes. Tears were shed as the students shared how sponsorship had benefited them and their families; one was working for Compassion, another was studying to be a doctor and another to be an engineer. They expressed how thankful they were to their sponsor, Compassion and, most of all, for having the Lord in their lives.

I was touched by their humility; their ambition to make something of their lives and the drive to want to help their parents, brothers and sisters as a result of having been blessed through sponsorship. Moreover, I was struck by the amount of faith, love, hope and trust they had in God. That no matter how little they had, they were truly grateful for what they did have.

So to finish, the group of thirteen who went to Ethiopia experienced the extraordinary. Together we laughed, cried and were encouraged, inspired, humbled and moved by Compassion and the work that they do. Even though they are poor, they are rich in fullness of Christ in their lives, possessing everything through Him, in Him and with Him.

If you are able to sponsor a child in need for just £21 per month (80p a day) or would like to know more about the work of Compassion, please visit www.compassionuk.org


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WWW.PHILOTRUST.COM PHILO MAGAZINE

July 2009

8th JulyJ.John and Julie Sheldon host ‘Girl Talk’, London

25th – 28th JulyJ.John speaks at HTB ‘Home Focus’For more information please visit www.htb.org.uk

Praise & Give Thanks

For Stephanie Middleton who joined Philo Trust as the Office Administrator and Samantha Blowers who joined Philo Trust as Projects & Events Manager.

For all those involved in the organisation and ministry at just10 Winchester and just10 Soul Survivor Watford.

For the continued opportunities given to witness the Good News in the UK and around the world.

Prayer

That people are receptive to J.John’s preaching which enables them to know Christ and follow His teachings.

That this new issue of Philo magazine will be widely distributed and well-received, and will encourage and strengthen support for the ministry.

For inspiring and welcoming local church support for those that have responded during just10 Winchester and just10 Soul Survivor Watford.

Prayer

For God’s protection as J.John, Killy, Ben, Meg and Dave travel to Uganda. Please pray for safety and good health as they spend time ministering in Uganda, and for the ministry of Watoto.

For all those who attended just10 Winchester and just10 Soul Survivor Watford and that their faith will be validated in thought, word and deed.

For relaxation, refreshment and protection for J.John, the team at Philo Trust and Philo’s volunteers as they take their Summer holidays.

July and August 2009

30th July - 5th AugustJ.John, Killy, their son Ben, Meg Duncan and Dave Hill visit Uganda with WatotoFor more information please visit www.watoto.com


For the many supporters of Philo Trust who uphold this ministry in prayer.

For the work of Compassion which aids thousands of children through sponsorship in some of the world’s poorest countries www.compassionuk.org

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More events

For a list of all J.John’s future events, go online to www.philotrust.com/events

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Events & Prayer Diary

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October 2009

‘An Evening with J.John and Friends’ tour dates:

5th October Colchester6th October Lincoln7th October Nottingham8th October Watford13th October Gateshead14th October Stockton19th October Cheltenham20th October Manchester21st October St Albans

For more information for each event, please visitwww.philotrust.com/events


For Philo Trust staff and volunteers who work at Philo’s offices, please pray for continuing efficiency and support and give thanks for the fellowship everyone enjoys.

For the relationships with Philo Associates of Philo Trust, their diverse ministries and outreach.

Prayer

For a time of relaxation and refreshment for J.John and team when the tour ‘An Evening with J.John and Friends’ concludes.

For an increase in the number of monthly donors so that we can plan and prepare with confidence.

More events

For a list of all J.John’s future events, go online to www.philotrust.com/events

September 2009

‘An Evening with J.John and Friends’ tour dates:

2nd September Chorleywood7th September Bangor, N. Ireland8th September Lisburn, N. Ireland9th September Belfast, N. Ireland14th September Liverpool16th September Ashford17th September Winchester21st September Norfolk23rd September Felixstowe24th September Luton28th September Solihull29th September Stoke on Trent30th September Newport

For more information for each event, please visitwww.philotrust.com/events


For the Philo Trustees who prayerfully seek to guide the minis-try of Philo: Terry and Juanita Baker, Adrian Bignell, Mike Carson, Alex Stewart-Clark and Peter Wright.

For the God-given opportunity for J.John to speak throughout the UK and Ireland this month.

For George Watkinson who starts his full-time role as J.John’s Assistant this month.

Prayer

For renewed strength, stamina and fresh anointing upon J.John as the tour ‘An Evening with J.John and Friends’ commences.


Abundant Life Church March 2009

We were privileged to recently host J.John for two days of ministry. J.John has become a great friend of the church over the last few years and the congregation always enjoys his visits. We are one church with three locations – Bradford, Belfast and Leeds.

J.John joined us for our evening services in Bradford and Leeds and then spent the following morning teaching our Leadership Academy students.

Our church in Bradford is surrounded by some of the most economically deprived areas in England. J.John’s message about God’s invitation to enter people’s lives really struck a chord with our heart to reach out to the city and its residents. From here, J. John travelled to speak at our extension service in Leeds.

Over the two services, hundreds of people enjoyed his humour and down-to-earth communication of the gospel and both meetings saw several decisions for Christ. The students of the Abundant Life Leadership Academy enjoyed a real treat – 2 hours of lectures about personal evangelism, up close and personal, with J.John.

It was a thoroughly equipping and inspiring weekend for all who were there!

Tim StaplesLeadership Academy Administratorwww.alm.org.uk

Face to FaceMarch 2009

We were so delighted to welcome J.John, Killy and team to our Face to Face meeting in March. Face to Face is a bi-monthly ladies’ meeting held at All Saints Church, Woodford Wells, Essex. Our vision statement is to provide ‘a safe place for women to come into a fresh intimacy with the Father’.

It was a fantastic opportunity to encourage our ladies to bring a friend who did not know Jesus to see what it was all about. And come they did! Around 500 ladies heard J.John share about Jesus in a way that was so fresh and full of fun, making the journey of coming to know Jesus as Saviour something that was real and irresistible.

J.John asked for people to respond to two basic calls, to stand to say that they wanted Jesus to come into their hearts, or to ask Jesus back into the driving seat of their lives. It was wonderful to see around 100 ladies stand in response to the invitation and then come up to receive prayer and a copy of Holman Hunt’s ‘Light of the World’ painting.

Miracles took place that night and lives will never be the same! Our God saves!

Gill HamptonFace to Face Ministrieswww.asww.org.uk

EVENTSFEEDBACK.Catch up with where we’ve been and

what God has been doing.

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REVIEW.

PHILO MAGAZINE WWW.PHILOTRUST.COM

Every year critics’ lists of the “best” films of the previous year roll out, only to be followed by one award show after another. While we mostly stay away from “best” lists, we thought we’d jump into the fray with some of our favourite films of 2008. They’re not in any order as they are all worth seeing.

Let us begin by mentioning two films which are on the top of our list: WALL-E, directed by Andrew Stanton, and Slumdog Millionaire, directed by Danny Boyle. The former is an animated film with both heart and a “message”, while the latter is a gritty film about hope even in the midst of the worst of human conditions. Both are film making at its best. Another animated film on our list that the whole family will enjoy is Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who, directed by Jimmy Hayward and Steve Martino. While Horton may be an animated elephant, he’s a hero who inspires us to compassion, humility, dedication and forgiveness. And speaking of heroes, Iron Man, directed by Jon Favreau, was our favourite summer superhero movie.

Big dramas on our list include Clint Eastwood’s Gran Torino. In this R-rated film, it seems that Eastwood’s Dirty Harry persona of the past comes of age in the multicultural world we live in. While racism, violence and strong language are present, so are love, sacrifice and redemption. Another drama The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, directed by David Fincher, is an amazing look at life in reverse, as Benjamin is born old and grows young, and all along the way gains the wisdom of the ages.

There were several smaller dramas that you also shouldn’t miss. The Visitor, directed by Tom McCarthy, poignantly portrays the encounter between a withdrawn professor and two needy, undocumented immigrants. While immigration in the midst of a war on terror can be a polarising topic, this film helps us to meet the people affected and calls us to compassion. From a different slant, Frozen River, directed by Courtney Hunt, tells the story of two women - one white, one Mohawk. Both are single mothers faced with desperate circumstances and are drawn into the world of smuggling undocumented immigrants across the border. It won best US drama at the Sundance Film Festival last year. A beautiful, small, French film was I’ve Loved You So Long, directed by Philippe Claudel. In this film, we watch as the


TOO MANY

FILMSTOO LITTLE

TIMEBy Catherine M. Barsotti

and Robert K. Johnston

power of goodness and the love of a younger sister for her older sister nurture steps towards wholeness and redemption. Not to be missed. Lastly, Happy Go Lucky, directed by Mike Leigh, is the quirky story of Poppy, a cheery British schoolteacher whose unquenchable optimism exasperates everyone around her.

To complete your viewing don’t miss several compelling documentaries. Man on Wire, directed by James Marsh, looks at tightrope walker Philippe Petit’s daring, but illegal, high-wire walk in 1974 between the World Trade Center’s twin towers in New York. Pray the Devil Back to Hell, directed by Gini Reticker, is the amazing account of a group of brave and visionary women who stood up to their country’s brutal leader and warlords, in order to bring peace to their tormented country (Liberia). Finally, Encounters at the End of the World, directed by Werner Herzog, provides the unique opportunity to meet the men and women who have dedicated their lives to furthering the cause of science in the extreme conditions of Antarctica.

Enjoy!

Pictured - Brad Pitt as ‘Benjamin Button’ in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’

picture courtesy of Warner Bros.

BREAKING EWS

: BREAKING TH

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KING THE NEWS

: BREAKING NE

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BREAKING THE NEWS

IN BREAKING THE NEWS YOU WILL DISCOVER HOW TO GENUINELY AND COMFORTABLY COMMUNICATE CHRIST TO OTHERS IN YOUR WORLD AND LEARN HOW TO BE A CHANNEL OF GOOD NEWS. PERSONAL EVANGELISM IS THE KEY TO CHURCH GROWTH. J.John’s approach is natural, practical and biblical.

Move past your fear and disappointment and begin breaking the news with new confidence.



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BREAKING EWS

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KING THE NEWS

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MIDDLETONStephanie Middleton joins Philo Trust as our Office Administrator. Stephanie graduated from the London School of Theology with a BA in Theology before working there and at a local church. She is a very welcome addition to the Philo team. Steph says, “I am excited to join the team at Philo and look forward to supporting the work in the role of Office Administrator. I am joining Philo at an exciting time with the forthcoming ‘An Evening with J.John and Friends’ tour, and look forward to seeing what God will do in the coming weeks through these events.”

WATKINSONWe are also delighted to welcome George Watkinson who has taken on the role of Assistant to J.John.

George says, “I am very excited to start work here at Philo as J.John’s assistant. To have the opportunity to work and spend time with an evangelist will be incredible, as sharing the good news of Christ with others is something that I feel called to do. I can’t wait to see God at work in people’s lives.”


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Philo Trust is a registered charity, committed to communicating the relevance of the Christian faith.

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GIFT AID.Philo Trust encourages donors to make Gift Aid declarations as the tax paid by the donor - a further 28% of each gift - can be reclaimed from the Inland Revenue. However, the position of a taxpayer making Gift Aid donations can change from one tax year to the next and the tax can only be reclaimed if the donor pays income tax and/or capital gains tax at least equal to the tax that Philo Trust reclaims on the donor’s gift(s) in a given tax year. If you have completed a Gift Aid declaration and you subsequently cease to pay a sufficient amount of tax, please notify us using our contact details.

Thank you

philo magazine summer 2009 issue

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