|PIC1|Britain may be in the midst of its worst economic downturn in decades, but that hasn’t stopped Share Jesus International from blanketing the capital in hundreds of events all aimed at bringing the church out of the building and into the heart of the city.

Thousands of people are expected to take part in the six-day long Pentecost Festival, and its diverse programme of music, dance, art exhibitions, lectures, comedy, sports and film.

The vision for the festival came from the late Rob Frost, founder of Share Jesus International, who felt God was calling him to “make a festival I would want to come to”. The vision was carried on after his death by his son and successor at Share Jesus, Andy Frost. The inaugural Pentecost Festival was held last year and drew more than 10,000 people to events across the city.

Highlights of this year’s event, from 26 to 31 May, include a film festival showcasing the UK premiere of The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything: a Veggietales Movie, the critically acclaimed modern day retelling of the Crucifixion, Son of Man, and the first cinema showing of Invisible Children: Rough Cut.

Environmentalist Sir John Houghton, comedian Adrian Plass and MOBO award winner Jahaziel are among the session leaders, while 29th Chapter will be leading the action in Leicester Square.

Speaking ahead of the event, festival director Andy Frost, said he was excited about the message Pentecost Festival was bringing to the capital this year.

“In an age when people often claim that Christianity is in terminal decline, Pentecost Festival demonstrates the innovative nature of the church as it demonstrates God’s compassion in the world," he said.

"The programme demonstrates the vitality and the breath of the church. It is fantastic to have such a diverse range of Christian tradition joining to celebrate on the streets of London.”