There was a warm welcome for Rev. Jonathan Fiddy and family who had just returned safely from their holiday. Deborah Fiddy related how God had answered their prayers and kept them safe in a potentially dangerous situation out a sea. Everyone gathered round to pray for their son, Joshua, who has been accepted at a Christian school in Essex and was about to embark on his life-changing journey after the service on Sunday. Those who were ill were also mentioned before a healing God. Pastor Fiddy took his message from Hebrews, chapter 11. He talked about enduring hardships and learning patience in an instant age. From the beginning of time, the Bible points out, there were men and women who proved that triumph comes from faith. Some performed mighty acts, others endured terrible hardships, but in both situations there was victory. "These should be our heroes," argued the Pastor. "How sad that the role models today are people with little moral fibre or sense of history." He explained that blessings and difficulties can both be distractions, but Christians should be running the race, accepting the training and discipline that Father God gives, and looking forward to the joy set before them, the glorious truth of heaven. This attitude imitates that of Jesus, who endured the cruelty of crucifixion for the joy that was set before him. Now, the Bible tells us, he is sat down in authority at the right hand of the Father. Jonathan revealed that he believes in a literal, real hell, and an equally tangible heaven. "Things in this life are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come. Death is just a step from the natural to the supernatural, and a Christian who dies... you can be sure that he won‚t want to come back again." "We shouldn't grow tired of doing good," he added. "We should fix our eyes on Jesus, our redemption and our destiny." This Sunday, in addition to the usual 10.15 am service, people will be making a dramatic statement of their new life in Jesus by being baptised. Don't miss this event, which takes place at 6 pm at Emmanuel Gospel Church, Manorbier (on the way to the Garden Centre). For details or transport arrangements, please telephone Mr. Fiddy on (01834) 871975.