Cork Free Presbyterian Church, 10 Briarscourt
(Annex) Shanakiel, Cork, Ireland
Pastor: Colin Maxwell. Email: colin.maxwell@fpcmission.org
While ploughs, both modern and ancient, were cutting straight furrows
in the last few days of September, a goodly number of Free
Presbyterians, including five ministers, were sowing the good seed of
God's word among the tens of thousands of ploughmen, exhibitors,
and spectators alike. 2006 saw the 75th Irish Ploughing Championships,
coupled with the World Championships (two days given to each event)
come to the little village of Tullow in County Carlow in the
Irish Republic.
Months of planning had gone into this event and we awaited it with
great anticipation. We were not disappointed. We hired a 20x30 foot
marquee again this year and served free tea and biscuits to the many
folk who ventured in. This enabled us to have many powerful
conversations with these folk who came from many different backgrounds.
At times, it seemed to be the easiest place in the world to speak for
Christ. One lady had but recently lost a nephew in a motor bike crash.
Another lady was preparing for the ministry in the Church of Ireland
but could not speak of a conversion to God. A common question concerned
the differences between our church and the Roman Catholic Church.
Several pieces of literature dealing with the Roman controversy were
taken. Another man stood at the book table and read a booklet answering
questions about the Reformation cover to cover. This was good because
Rome was also out in force with various stalls all propagating her
doctrines.
Many browsed the book table and took away the free literature. About
900 specially prepared CD's were taken and 10,000 Scriptural calendars
which were bagged to protect them against the invariable rain were all
well received. Rev. Leslie Curran had a stand representing the Let the
Bible Speak radio work. 5,000 cards with the details of our Irish
radio broadcasts were also put into the bags with the calendars along
several hundred copies the LTBS magazine and other literature.
We had the Scriptures on display inside the tent on display boards
while a good 8 foot banner outside proclaimed the old message, "Ye must
be born again." Thousands of people saw this and other texts which were
on display.
God willing, next year, the competition moves to Tullamore (Co. Offaly)
We plan to return and reach out once again with the message of
Redeeming Grace.
THE END