The theme of this edition of Essentials is evangelism. The consensus in our context, as observed by Julie-anne Laird, is that when it comes to evangelism things are not going well. It is into that space that we seek to provide some encouragement, inspiration, and hopefully several ways forward.

There are many tasks and projects with which we can keep ourselves busy that are far easier than evangelism, and in the contested space of the post-Christendom West it is an ever-present temptation to focus on those easier things. However, to do so would be to lose sight of the glorious commission given us by Christ.

In this edition Peter Jensen’s article on GAFCON does far more than rehearse the story of a movement, it is a call and a challenge to all evangelical Anglicans to keep gospel mission at the heart of what we do.

We also hear stories of great encouragement from Lou Davies as she shares Christ in a school chaplaincy context. We reflect on how best to train our people in personal evangelism, and hear from Sarah Seabrook as she seeks to help local churches run better outreach events.

Let’s give ourselves afresh to the mission of Christ in the world holding on to his promise that “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” (Mt. 16:18)

In Christian Fellowship

GAVIN PERKINS, BOWRAL, NSW