A Longer Read...

The Wondrous Story... in HMP Buckley Hall.

I was recently given the opportunity of holding a short ministry concert in the chapel at HMP Buckley Hall. It was suggested by a chaplaincy colleague that in addition to my songs, I include something that all the prisoners could sing along with. After prayerful consideration I came up with the hymn “I will sing the Wondrous Story” and printed out some word sheets for it. At first, doubts were cast as to whether any of the men would know this hymn and it actually turned out that they didn't! However, I decided to go ahead with it.

When the time for the song came around I said to everyone “You may not know this one now but hopefully by the end, you will.” Sure enough as we proceeded we could hear the guys joining in with more and more confidence and by the final chorus everyone was singing with great gusto!

I also shared with my guitar several Scripture songs taken from the Psalms and gave my testimony. Finally I brought things to a close with a simple song that included a prayer for salvation. I encouraged the men to make it their prayer if they wanted to receive Christ and I noticed many of those present bowed their heads as we came to the prayer part.

It was a great blessing to see the respect and enthusiasm shown by those attending and the sincerity with which they responded. It also seems that they have signed up to attend our latest course “The Bible Course” which is coming up soon. Please pray for these men as we seek to continue to minister to them both in groups and on a one to one basis. Pray that the Lord will bring them through to a fuller salvation experience and a deeper knowledge of Himself.

Nick Stirling

Supported by Benefact Group