Representatives from Release International were guests of honour at two major local events last week, both of which helped to raise awareness of persecution and funds for Sharing Life Ministry, Pakistan (SLMP).

CD LAUNCH

The launch of the new CD by Jackie Rodda in the New Hedges Village Hall last Monday was a resounding success. The long hall was filled with the sound of the live band and an enthusiastic congregation and audience.

Despite the car park being out of action, parking permission had been obtained from Tees-R-Us and the New Hedges Tavern for this one-off event. Two ushers and a string of coloured lights helped to welcome people to the hall across the newly-tarred approach.

Once inside, people were greeted with colourful posters, CDs to buy, and displays from Christian charity Release International (RI).

Backing vocalist Bryan Haddon opened the evening with a reading and the sounding of the Jewish shofar, a trumpet made from a ram's horn. Jackie (at the piano) and Bryan led everyone in singing the hymn 'My Jesus, My Saviour.' The band playing that night included Sam Taylor on drums, Paddy Ovenden on saxophone, and two electric guitarists: Steve Michaels and Tim Longworth.

Special guests from RI, Anthony Hall and Imtiaz Ashraf, were introduced by Rev. Peter Richmond.

'Master of my Hope,' a song written by Jackie, was the first performance. Before singing, she thanked everyone, and especially Paddy (who was now at the piano) for the work he had put into producing the new album.

A 10-minute slideshow presentation was then shown. Featuring many scenes of Pembrokeshire, as well as the faces of some of those who have fought hard battles for their faith in Jesus, the slideshow took its audience quickly through the album, with extracts from each song.

After another worship song, 'Great is the Lord and worthy to be praised,' Paddy moved from the keyboard back to the piano and sang part of the song he had written for the album, called 'You see glory.' Jackie then took the lead vocals and the band kicked into full swing. The words reflected the reason for the charity CD - the inspiration of Christians who are willing to suffer for their faith in the many places that do not allow freedom of religion.

Release International

It was Anthony's turn to speak, and he was full of praise for the efforts of local people.

"Whenever Pembrokeshire is mentioned, we think of it as a special place," he said. He introduced Imtiaz, an energetic and passionate London Pakistani who spoke of his recent experiences working with SLMP. At the moment they have to hire a vehicle for every visit, but these fundraising efforts should ensure that they can soon buy their own.

Imtiaz brought up-to-date news of people who were known to Pembrokeshire Prayer for the Suffering Church, and showed two DVDs outlining some of the enormous challenges to Christians, as well as some of the work of Release International in Pakistan.

Punch

After a short time of prayer, the band struck up for one more hymn, 'I will sing the wond'rous story,' and finished with a simple blessing of 'grace.' Fruit punch and mince pies rounded off the evening.

Jackie, Paddy and the band were showered with compliments - there was praise for the punch as well as the music! Some 20 CDs were sold on the night and extra donations were given.

PPSC

Anthony and Imtiaz were again present at the meeting of Pembrokeshire Prayer for the Suffering Church, held in Pembroke Town Hall. There was an excellent turnout, and Anthony said afterwards that it was the largest prayer meeting of its kind he had witnessed.

The evening followed its usual format, with news from three countries, specific prayer requests and practical ways of helping.

Imtiaz was on hand to give first-hand information concerning Pakistan, and both representatives joined with Dot Quirk in giving thanks for all the hard work put into organising the monthly meetings and fundraising events.

More CDs were sold on the night, and extra donations amounted to £144.

(Internet users who would like to buy Jackie's new album, 'Adonai! Master of my Hope,' can visit http://www.hesed.co.uk/CD">www.hesed.co.uk/CD and order online. All profits will go to the vehicle fund for SLMP.)

The organisers are grateful to the many people who helped make these events a great success.