December 2024
BAIS CITY PHILIPPINES
Our Connect group leaders, Paul and Rose, have had a vision for serving God in the Philippines, as Rose was born there. They held on to the vision for many years, but now was the time for the vision to become reality. Pastor Aran, Levi and I, along with Paul and Rose set off to follow the call of God.
The reception we got was quite outstanding. During our time there we shared at many churches, gave guitars where they were needed most, sang and testified at the prison, finishing off with a two day crusade where many came forward for prayer.
I had the opportunity to share about the ministry of Guitar Aid on the radio. Giving to the poor through a feeding programme was unforgettable
Celebrating giving 4,000 guitars
Our ‘own brand’ guitars come from J.H.S.&Co. I was telling them of the significant milestone of 4,000 guitars that was approaching. Their reaction was amazing! “Let’s have four guitars made to celebrate the occasion, one to keep for posterity, one to give, and two to auction to raise funds for Guitar Aid”. This all sounded incredible.
The idea was that we would get Sir Cliff Richard, our patron, to sign all four guitars. True to their word, Dennis and Paul from J.H.S. managed to get this done to a standard of excellence. The publicity resulted in many Christian magazines; one featured a story, with the title, ‘Meet the man giving away 4.000 weapons of worship’.
I even had a visit from GOD TV, who produced an excellent feature that highlighted the need for encouraging worship. This can be viewed on Guitar Aid YouTube channel. The guitar in the photo has pride of place in my office.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
This book was written at one of the most difficult times of my life. Our eldest son, Chris was taken into hospital with an extreme case of COVID.
We were told he might not make it. On five occasions we were given bad news that he might not pull through. Each time we kept praying, trusting God for a miracle.
Eight weeks on a ventilator, nine weeks in intensive care and subsequently seven and a half months in hospital, we eventually got that miracle. Chris came home six days before his 35th Birthday.
Writing the book during this time kept reminding me of God’s faithfulness over many years of Guitar Aid missions. I pray that it will bless those who read it and inspire a culture of obedience, where we are willing to take the next step God has for us in our lives.
EASTERN EUROPE
In the summer, I had the privilege of going to Campfest in Slovakia, with my son Ben. Driving from the airport I was asked if I would share on the opening evening! What an opportunity! Recalling how God had used ‘what I had in my hands’ and how Guitar Aid was born out of my response to giving that to Him. What a thrill to tell of God’s faithfulness to thousands at that event.
For many years, I have travelled around the world with my brother John. This year, he has spent much of his time in and out of hospital, getting his heart to function as it should. What a thrill to get the ‘all clear’ so we could travel on missions again. Our most recent trip to Hungary and Romania was a special time of connecting with friends we’ve known for many years. 34 years of missions and still going!
We have sent many guitars to Ukraine over the past few years. Recently the BBC reported from the front line, where the Padre was using one of our guitars to encourage the troops. What a joy to see it being used in this way.
I hope that Guitar Aid reaching 4,000 guitars given, inspires you as a supporter.
1 Chronicles 23v5 says; ‘Four Thousand will praise the Lord with musical instruments’
I would encourage you to visit our website guitar-aid.com, you will be able to buy the book or give to the important work of raising up a sound of worship around the world.
Our Account number is 00034394 Sort Code 40-52-40 any gift is really appreciated.
As Martin Smith says, “It’s not just a guitar; it’s a weapon of worship”
Thank you so much for your support!
Dave Sumner.
