|PIC1|Traditionally it’s thought that the Black Country gets its name from the black coal which marked the landscape. Later, it was assumed that industrial pollution also added to the use of this name. But today, with protective legislation, the industrial pollution has lifted and the name is now part of the West Midlands’ rich heritage.

But there’s a greater heritage that evangelists want to claim for this area of Britain. ‘Shine your light in the Black Country’ is an outreach venture to bring spiritual values to the forefront of residents in the heart of the UK. OAC Ministries (Open Air Campaigners) and OM Lifehope are uniting from 4 to 12 July for this creative evangelism training and outreach event.

A team of up to 100 people will be led by experienced evangelists and work with about 10 churches.

"This outreach initiative is firmly based on the local church," says Dave Glover, OAC
National Director. "We are there to serve in assisting local believers make an impact where they live.

"It also gives people the experience of learning from professional evangelists and gaining confidence through team ministry while developing their individual gifts.

"This promises to be an exciting time of outreach ministry for the Black Country as churches pray and plan."

Every morning the smaller teams will unite for prayer and training in basic evangelism. In the afternoon, individuals will join local churches to engage with the community in a way that is relevant to them. Creative means are anticipated as OAC draws on past experience ranging from visual arts and music to Wii tournaments, golf days and treasure hunts.

"The clear distinctive of OAC and of OM has always been one of reaching people where they are with the Good News of Jesus Christ," Glover notes. "That is the thrust of 'Shine your light in the Black Country'. Our prayer is that others will want be part of it!"