Why Wales?

A congregation I'm seeking support from recently asked me to give them a clear and concise paragraph on the work I hope to do in Newport, Wales.  Specifically, the question they gave me to respond to was: "why is your work an important kingdom-building ministry?"  This question has been quite challenging, as I have to try and condense my thoughts and heart to a paragraph.  But it has also blessed me as I have reflected on why it is I believe God has called me to work with young people at the Newport Church of Christ.

So for those of you who have asked me (or wanted to ask) "why Wales," I hope this will help (many times I express myself better on paper than face-to-face).  It's still just a rough draft, so take it for what it is...

"There is an enormous need for spiritual renewal in Wales.  In only three or four generations what was once the center of the Christian world (the United Kingdom), has become a very secular nation.  Especially among young people (only 5% of whom go to church monthly) there is great brokenness and deep spiritual hunger.  Yet Wales is one of the most forgotten areas of Christian outreach in the world.  Among Churches of Christ, the Newport Church of Christ (near Cardiff) is the only congregation in Wales (a region of over 3 million people).  Yet, the Newport congregation has the beginnings of a good outreach to the young people of their community.  They have between 20 and 30 students who come to their building for “youth clubs” after school each week, and there is potential for many more.  The congregation cares deeply for these students, but needs someone to help them disciple them and draw them into the life of the Church.  I believe that God is giving me the opportunity to help them do just that.  There is great need in Wales, but there is also great potential.  Newport is a good place to start."