Autumn Appeal 2025
‘Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.’ (Isaiah 54:2)
Over the past year, I’ve found myself reflecting deeply on the power of Good News. Not just the Good News of Christ, which remains at the heart of everything ICS does, but also the good news stories that emerge from our mission partners across the globe—stories of transformation, hope, and faith. That reflection led to the creation of Good News Travels, a simple initiative to share these stories and encourage others. In a world often overwhelmed by bad news, these glimpses of grace remind us of the beauty and impact of Gospel ministry. Let me share just three stories that have stayed with me:
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Jord's Story
Jord, a Dutch composer and poet, grew up an atheist. Yet, during a quiet Evensong in an English Cathedral, he heard a voice say, “Be welcome.” Twice. It wasn’t imagined. Back in Utrecht, he hesitantly entered Holy Trinity Church and was embraced by a warm community. At a baptism service, he heard the voice again: “You know, you’re next.” Jord surrendered to Christ, praying simply, “I don’t know what you want with me, but here I am.”
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Lindsey's Story
Lindsey, a former model, was walking with her husband and dogs, listening to Matthew 11:28–30. The words struck her like a wave: “Come to me, all you who are weary…” She tells, “I felt the wind knocked out of me, collapsing into the open arms of a loving Christ who does not reject, who does not judge, who loves unconditionally, who offers a place of refuge, of community, and a place I CAN call home.” She is now part of the Chaplaincy in Aquitaine.
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Amira's Story
Amira, a Palestinian student I met in Freiburg, had reached out to the church when she moved there to study and found such a welcome that she talks of the church as her ‘beautiful community’ where she experiences love, faith and belonging as she navigates the pain of what is happening at home.
These stories are not isolated. They are the fruit of the faithful ministry ICS enables through chaplaincies, church plants, and mission partners who walk alongside people in their journey of faith. Our tagline, ‘Making Jesus Known’, is not just a slogan, it’s a lived reality.
This letter also marks a personal milestone. Next July, I will retire after thirteen years with ICS. I carry with me countless stories like those above, some dramatic, others quiet and gentle; all pointing to lives changed by Christ. I will miss being part of this and the incredible mission partners whose courage and faith inspire.
ICS is poised for a strong future and Isaiah 54:2 encourages us to grow, stretch, to not hold back; this is our passion as we enter the next season. We have appointed a new Church Planting Enabler, Ben Harding, and a Recruitment and Short-Term Mission Manager, Tim Wright, to help deploy and support mission partners. Early next year, the search for a new Mission Director will start as we seek the person called to lead ICS into its next chapter.
My prayer is that this new chapter begins with strength and momentum—not hindered by financial constraints. So today, would you consider making a gift to ICS? Whether it’s £1,000, £500, £50, or any amount that feels right to you, your generosity directly supports the ministry and mission of ICS.
Even more, could you consider starting a regular monthly gift? Standing orders provide vital stability as we plan and grow. If you already give regularly, might this be a moment to increase your support?
We remain dependent on God’s provision—and so often, that provision comes through people like you. Your partnership, prayers, and generosity are essential to us.
Thank you for journeying with ICS. Thank you for helping us make Jesus known.
With deep gratitude and every blessing,