YOU'RE NEVER TOO OLD FOR MISSION

Six Christians who have spent part of their retirement volunteering with mission agencies share their stories of faith in Premier Christianity magazine, October issue. You can read one of the stories, and don't forget you can grab you free magazine copy from here..

Street Pastors are groups of Christians who go into towns and cities on Friday and Saturday nights to offer support to the people coming out of pubs and clubs. They help them get home safely and provide water and assistance. Conrad Williams, 67, from east London, explains how he got involved

I became a Christian when I was 18. As a young man I was invited to church, and I went along to see girls...who I fancied and who I didn’t fancy. They always did an altar call at the end of a service, and one day I went up there. The next thing I knew, I was just different. Suddenly I saw the girls as sisters. They used the word “saved” at the time. It was a sweet feeling, that’s all I can say.

I’m the type of person who can’t sit still. The Lord uses us as we are, and I’m a ‘get up and go’ person. God blessed me with a voice. I talk a lot! I talk to everyone. I was in church and someone said: “I think Street Pastors might be for you,” so I went as an observer. Then I did the training and now I’m out there with them.

My intention is always to point someone to Jesus. We’re not going to preach to people, but they do ask us, “Why are you doing this? Are you making money from this?” And I say: “No, no, no.” I say, “Because something happened to me. He touched me. My life is changed, because I’ve met God.” It’s my opportunity to talk about Christ.

Some things you see on the streets are horrible and you shake your head. But Jesus died for these people, and as you get older I find you mature in love. You can love the unlovely.
I think age commands a respect. Seeing someone older generates a respect. When we go out, we pray: “Holy Spirit, work with me,” and I know he does.