Sending a BMS Church Team to Kolkata had a profound effect not only on our church but the surrounding community. It was amazing how so many of the church really supported the project both practically and financially. They “caught the vision” and wanted to be part of it even though they couldn’t go themselves. The local community also became involved. Local businesses gave financial support (one shoe shop donated over 50 pairs) and there was a general ‘buzz’ about the town about what was happening. The church had a variety of fundraising activities not only to raise money but awareness. This included a car boot sale and a curry night for predominantly non-church folk. In the end we raised nearly double the amount required.
The effect on all the team members was also very powerful. People who had previously not felt able to pray aloud were praying without hesitation. Even before embarking on the trip, the spiritual adventure had begun with team preparation including a weekend away together. In Kolkata we all felt a closer reliance on God and felt confident that He would not call us to do anything that He had not equipped us for. What an experience!
Iain, team leader