As fans enthusiastically follow sporting events ranging from World Cup Soccer to the Olympics, Stratford Christians are striving to achieve ultimate gold. Evangelist Roger Murphy of Through Faith Missions (TFM) will lead a dynamic mission from 7 to 10 July.

"Live music, choirs, street entertainment and prayer ministry will all be on offer. That’s because we use creative ways to communicate with people in our area to enable them to come to know Jesus," he said Roger.

The mission involves 18 Stratford churches from a wide denominational range.

"We benefit from the experience gained in a similar mission last year themed around the World Cup called 'The Ultimate Goal'," he continued.

"This year serves as a forerunner to the Olympics mission in 2012 as we will be creating many open air events which we propose to repeat next year."

Presentations with painting will also help attract an audience as Evangelist Steve Gurnett of OAC Ministries (Open Air Campaigners) explains.

"I give a simple gospel message and paint on a large sketchboard. Painting the key words helps reinforce the message. Then too, the pictures create interest. People gather and listen to spiritual matters and discuss them afterwards."

The extensive grounds of St John’s Church Stratford provide the large outdoor venue. Music, escapology and creative object lessons will be used to draw crowds. Some team members will offer light refreshments, others will engage with individuals in one-to-one conversation and distribute literature following gospel messages.

Trained team members from local churches and from all over the UK as well as professional evangelists will make up the outreach teams. In addition to the outdoor events to reach the community, indoor events are scheduled throughout Stratford.

Participating churches will be holding smaller activities with members conducting local outreach.

Last year, people filled out more than 200 response cards indicating that they had made a commitment of faith, a re-commitment or received prayer ministry. These results encourage local Christians as they aim for their ultimate goal that others also will know Jesus.