In the midst of the volcanic ash crisis that brought UK airports to a standstill, evangelist Andrew Palau's 10-day mission to southern England turned up the region's spiritual heat.

"We came to start a fire in the lives of God's people to think of their friends, pray for them faithfully, and invite them to know Jesus Christ. Ultimately our goal is to win as many people as possible to Christ," said Palau, son of renowned evangelist Luis Palau.

Working alongside local churches in Tonbridge, Haywards Heath, Chesham, Horsham, Burgess Hill and Marlow, Palau gave a clear Gospel message at a variety of venues from schools and churches to parks and even at an immigration removal centre at Gatwick airport.

"It was fantastic to be with the people at the removal centre. They were primarily from various parts of Africa, as well as Jamaica," said Palau, whose previous missions have taken him to both places on more than one occasion. "They will now go back to their countries radically transformed by the power of the Gospel."

Though Europe's spiritual climate was often challenging, Palau says he was encouraged by the response each night.

"One night while preaching at Burgess Hill Park there were a number of kids up front heckling and jeering, fighting and drinking," he said. "It was quite distracting. However, hundreds of people were listening intently while the Spirit of God allowed them to put aside that distraction, hear the Good News and respond. We have to carry on trusting God that His message carries power. We cannot fear being fools for Christ."

The Luis Palau Association's Director of European Ministry Nigel Gordon noted the logistical challenges posed by the volcanic ash crisis.

"The flight disruptions meant a skateboarder, a BMX athlete, and one of the bands couldn't make it," he said. "But within two days we were able to make alternative arrangements and everything went ahead."

The long-term impact from Palau's mission is visible even now, said Gordon, through the response received as well as the future plans being made.

"A lot of people know of Luis Palau," he added.

"Andrew is one of his four sons, and a "prodigal". He came to faith at 27 with a long history of drugs and alcohol. The message he preaches is personal for him, and we've already got invitations to return from three or four different cities and towns."

Gordon went on to say, "Andrew has a big emphasis in North and South America, and other places as well, but like his father he really loves the UK. He would be very happy to come back and continue reaching out with the Good News of Jesus Christ."