Mary And Joseph In Manchester?

Yes, And They Were Looking For Somewhere To Stay!

As Paul made his way to Oxford Road Station one evening he became aware of a commotion when somebody got knocked off their bike. A couple who were sitting nearby got involved to make sure the lady concerned was alright. All was well, but Paul noticed that the couple had a distinct Irish Traveller accent. They had recently arrived in Manchester and were needing accommodation. Having mentioned some signposting possibilities the conversation continued to the couple's need for prayer. Paul asked for their names, and it was easy for him to remember; they were Mary and Joseph.

Paul came across another Irish Traveller begging in the Piccadilly Gardens area. E was very upset and it turned out that her mother had died recently but that she had not been able to go back home for the funeral. E felt an immense amount of guilt. Paul listened to E's story for several minutes and offered prayer. Remembering that he was carrying a number of New Testament and Psalms Paul checked that one of them included the helpful verses section at the front and E gladly accepted it.

Whether Paul meets the individuals in these stories again remains to be seen.