This unique outreach began several years ago when John Heywood, an OAC Ministries (Open Air Campaigners) evangelist, decided to try reaching people in leisure situations. Based in Stourbridge, his location is strategic as many festivals and fairs take place throughout the Midlands. One result of this decision is the opportunity to relate to people with canal boats.
John Heywood and his evangelistic team conduct outreach along canal front and riverside areas as well as at boat festivals such as the one in Stourbridge. They perform a repertoire of canal songs and praise and worship music.
John explains, "In Jesus’ day, He used parables to relate to people in agricultural situations. We attempt to follow His example in industrial and leisure situations. For example, we sing about going through the tunnel. Then we establish a link, singing about Jesus and explaining how He helps us through the journey of life."
The evangelistic team generally use lively music to appeal to a wider audience with instruments like guitars, hand drums, tambourines and harmonicas. Also, traditional canal art is on display with pastel renditions of roses and castles. Using canal boat items as object lessons, messages are relevant to boating.
In addition to the Gospel presentation, the team distributes literature and engage in conversations with people individually. Team members are local Black Country residents, predominantly middle aged people who have come to faith in recent years. Several come from difficult backgrounds and tell of God turning their lives around in a powerful way.
Working in an interactive way, team members help enquirers who come to faith with counselling and their links with churches. Even the literature they distribute reflects how God is working through these creative means. Some tracts are specifically designed for the canal outreach. ‘Which Way’ tells about Barry who was experiencing great problems. He came to faith at the Netherton Boating Festival and then became established in a local church.
As spring approaches, the team will prepare to share a spiritual perspective with people in areas ranging from Tipton, ‘Venice of the Midlands’, to Birmingham.
On the web: www.oacgb.org.uk
