Spark Ballymena 2019, which ran from 27th July-4th August 2019, has been described as a ‘turbo charged week’ where souls were saved, and God was glorified.
Each morning began with worship at High Kirk Presbyterian Church, which was led brilliantly by Lauren Hood and the band.
Andy Lamberton, (Exodus) and Peter McClelland, (Wellington Presbyterian) delivered inspiring messages from God’s Word based on the theme for the week – ‘Glory’.
Sparkers also had the opportunity to hear from and get involved with organisations like Ballymena Foodbank, Invisible Traffic and ‘Olive Lane’.
After a hearty lunch, everyone left for their respective areas where they had the opportunity to show the love of God in various ways.
Sparkers get busy in the community
Broughshane volunteers enjoyed helping at the SuperCup soccer event while Ballee Sparkers enjoyed a night of Wildfire Worship and their Character Hunt.
The Portglenone crew organised a Family Scavenger Hunt. Wednesday afternoon was a busy one for the Fisherwick/Town Centre gang, who were kept busy at the Harmony Hub (Broadway Bandstand) as they sang and danced with ‘Swingy’, a Christian youth band of musicians and movers from Arizona.
A poignant time of worship, prayer and praise was enjoyed by everyone at High Kirk on Wednesday evening. This wonderful event provided another high point during a week of BBQs, Fun-Days, litter-picks and gardening, all of which aimed to show people in the town that Jesus loves them.
This important message was conveyed even more profoundly by the presence of a group of amazing young people from Refuge in California who were making their second visit to Spark. Each of these enthusiastic travellers joined with the teams in the various areas. Their friendship and commitment was something to be admired and cherished.
Spark Ballymena 2019 concluded with an amazing evening of Praise & Thanksgiving to God for all that He has done throughout the week.
Once again, Lauren and the band where on hand to lead worship with anthems including ‘Glorious Day’ and ‘Be Thou My Vision’ before representatives from each area reflected on their personal highlights from the outreach.
‘Living Your Best Life’ provided the basis for the night’s message, which was delivered by Stuart Newburn from Central, Belfast, who talked about the Greatest Commandments as outlined in Matthew 22:34-40.
The service ended with praise and prayer before the MCs Jacqui and Jordan thanked everyone who had made Spark happen, including the organiser, Lisa Jackson, audio specialists, Gareth and Cain, not forgetting the numerous Churches who fed and supported the teams this year.
God willing, Spark will return to the streets of Ballymena and surrounding areas from 27th-31st July 2020. Meantime, you can keep up to date with the arrangements by logging on to their website or Facebook page.