As part of our Pentecost Sunday service the Band ministered in the High Street.

The Band outreach always attracts a surge of attention from the many onlookers who look on in anticipation and wonder as to what is going on! Pentecost Sunday  was no exception! As soon as the Band struck up its  first piece a crowd started to swell.   Many taking a copy of our literature and sharing in all sorts of conversations with those from the Corps out supporting the outreach.

Many new people where spoken to, as well as those that we regularly share conversation with during the week and at weekends, which was a blessing as well as a powerful presence and witness.

Chris spoke of the Eurovision Song Contest and the diversity and coming together of many nations and people then likened this to the Christian Faith and Christ’s acceptance of all people.

A swing style adaptation of the classic “The Old Rugged Cross” proved a favourite with many people foot tapping as they listened and even one lady breaking out in dance. Ryan sang a beautiful solo, accompanied by the Band, that surely spoke to many people.   He was even “photobombed”, which brought some amusement to the proceedings, and he did very well to keep going through the song maintaining perfect composure.  Well done Ryan!

As the band continued to play, Chris handed out free sweets representing the free Grace of God as the many conversations that had been struck up carried on and all enjoying the Spirit filled atmosphere set against the backdrop of the town centre which was basking in the warmth of the late spring sunshine. After the last piece played, the time was then pray-fully brought to a reflective end.

The outreach was finally completed with the customary march back to the Citadel.   This always draws a lot of interest and curiosity with people coming out of shops to watch, take photos and videos and also to stop those who were not playing instruments to talk, offer thanks and encouragement as well as financial contributions to the  Corps’ ongoing work within the community.

We believe the Band is a source of blessing and long may its witness continue.