Visitors will be introduced to a wide range of mission projects that impact church, family life, community and the workplace.
In particular, focus will be given to grass-roots mission. Rev Dr Clifford Hill, of the Centre for Contemporary Ministry said, “A new openness to the Gospel is steadily becoming apparent as Christians share their faith at work and among their friends in the community.”
He continued, “Organised, top-down programmes, like those tried in the 1980’s and 1990’s, are not usually successful. But the Spirit of the Lord is moving among his people and when that begins to happen ordinary believers get the confidence to do extraordinary things.”
Organisers of the event have promised that drama and practical demonstrations will accompany a tabletop exhibition that will bring together fresh, unpublicised initiatives.Gavin Tyte, a curate from Portsmouth, will demonstrate his Human Beatbox website, which is currently discipling 3000 young people. Gavin will give practical demonstrations in one of several 'Soapbox' slots, explains Stephen Goddard from the CRE.
Other features at this year’s CRE include:
* The Da Vinci Code - Cracking or Cracked? A special debate, hosted by Ruth Gledhill of The Times, on the significance of Dan Brown’s ‘religious’ blockbuster
* UK Christian Book Awards - presented by Northern Ireland’s former political leader, David Trimble with an informal interview with author Jonathan Aitken
* Worship 2020 - an innovative, futuristic service with an international congregation taking part via the web
National CRE 2006 will be officially opened by Bible teacher, author and broadcaster Jeff Lucas.
The Christian Resources Exhibition will take place at Sandown Park Exhibition Centre, Esher, Surrey, May 9–12 2006. The event will bring together approximately 350 suppliers, charities and mission organisations, with numerous and varied seminars and presentations focusing on aiding churches and individuals to become more effective in their ministries.
