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Our Faithful Queen

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Our Faithful Queen

I write to you today with the strange mixture of sadness and great hope. Sadness, because Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II our wonderful Queen has died at the age of 96. Hope, because of her sincere and deep Christian faith.

Earlier this year, Prince William The Duke of Cambridge, along with Duchess Kate, visited one of our TICCN Ministries. They met with Bishop-elect Michael (Pastor Mick) in Burnley and showed tremendous care and concern for the people. This deep care is something they shared with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who lived a life devoted to serving other people. This devotion stands as a clear reflection of both her Christian faith and deep commitment to public life.

As we mourn the loss of Queen Elizabeth II, our hearts are filled with memories of her throughout the years. Most of us will have memories of Royal occasions, news reports, television programs and media images. Some of us might have even had opportunity to have met Her Majesty or seen her in person. What a unique mixture of character, strength, integrity, and many other good ingredients she possessed. We remember all these things at this time but especially we remember her faith. Defined by service and commitment to her God and country, she was the longest-reigning monarch. Her Majesty was well-respected around the world, her hard work and faith was an inspiration to all people.

The first outward sign of Her Majesty’s faith was when she was only 13 years old and she presented her Father with a Christian poem which read: “Go out into the darkness, and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light, and safer than a known way.” The King was so moved by these words that he went on to quote the poem in his 1939 Christmas speech, encouraging Britons who were facing the awful circumstances of World War II.

Her Majesty dedicated her life to public service and on her 21st birthday, and at her coronation in 1953, she prayed, “God help me to make good my vow, and God bless all of you who are willing to share in it.” Around 20 million people were watching the ceremony and she also promised to “maintain the Laws of God and the true profession of the Gospel.”

Throughout the almost 70 years of her Reign, Her Majesty exemplified duty and service to her people. According to the Royal family’s website, she saw “public and voluntary service as one of the most important elements of her work.” The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee earlier this year was an opportunity for people to come together and create shared local spirit. “I have been inspired by the kindness, joy and kinship that has been so evident in recent days,” she said, “and I hope this renewed sense of togetherness will be felt for many years to come.” TICCN have produced an attractive simple Christian tract to help both celebrate the Platinum Jubilee and share the Gospel.

The Queen frequently expressed her Christian faith in public. She shared her hope that her family would follow Jesus saying: “I would like nothing more than that my grandchildren should hold dear His ideals.” In 2002, she said: “I know just how much I rely on my faith to guide me through the good times and the bad. Each day is a new beginning. I know that the only way to live my life is to try to do what is right, to take the long view, to give of my best in all that the day brings, and to put my trust in God… I draw strength from the message of hope in the Christian gospel.”

Perhaps the most famous messages given by Her Majesty were the The Queen’s annual Christmas broadcasts. These were part of British culture and a feature of Christmas Day for most millions of viewers. She openly shared her faith using this platform, in 2012 for example, she talked about the God “Who sent His son to serve not to be served and in doing so restored love and service to the centre of our lives in the person of Jesus Christ.” Again, in 2014, she said, “For me, the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace whose birth we celebrate today, is an inspiration and anchor in my life. A role model of reconciliation and forgiveness, He stretched out his hands in love, acceptance, and healing.” Her Majesty would point to Christ in her Christmas speeches making it clear that He was not just a teacher or philosopher but “the Saviour” with the “power to forgive.”

Her Majesty’s life reflected Christian values such as service, forgiveness, reconciliation, and prayer. Prayer was a vitally important part of the Queen’s life. She thanked people for their prayers, prayed daily, and spoke about the power of prayer. Her legacy is one of devotion and service to her people and a consistent and sustaining faith in God, one of the most well-known Christian public figures in the world, we thank God for her life and service to this nation.

Prayers

Please join with me over this next period of time in praying daily for the Royal family as they mourn the death of Her Majesty. Especially for our new King Charles III, that he would experience and enjoy the same clarity of faith as his Mother. We pray that the Royal family would find comfort in God as they grieve. We ask that they would be protected in all that they do and that faith in Jesus Christ would enrich all of their lives. That Godly wisdom would guide and steer them throughout their days. Therefore, we join together in saying “God save the King!” In the Name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, Amen.

Facebook Post from 8th September 2022

The flags were lowered, formal notice was posted on the railings of Buckingham Palace, and suddenly, a rainbow appeared over Windsor Castle.

Some might think that Her Majesty is dead, not I! She is more alive than ever before, with her Lord, at the eternal residence. The Castle she now occupies is grander than any earthly imagination could ever conceive. Proof you ask? Her life and testimony, and God’s rainbow which appeared over Windsor Castle, the Biblical sign of a completed covenant.

Our faithful Queen, completed her race, gracious, strong, and true, she has won the prize and is now in conference with the King of Kings. All our lives we’ve prayed in song: ‘God Save Our Gracious Queen,’ and God certainly did.

– Archbishop Metropolitan Steven Lyn Evans –

Send a message of condolence to the Royal Family using the link below:

https://www.royal.uk/

TICCN Minister Mick Fleming appeared on Local BBC Radio on Sunday 11th September for a service of Thanksgiving for the Queen. Listen below:

No Time For Party Politics!

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No Time For Party Politics!

Archbishop Metropolitan Steven has thanked former Prime Minister Gordon Brown for his kind words to Bishop-elect Michael (Pastor Mick), regarding the work that our churches are doing in response to the Cost of Living Crisis. TICCN ministers are at the forefront of meeting both spiritual and physical needs.

Archbishop Steven continued: “Whilst it’s not easy for people with differing political opinions to work together, we must make every effort to find a way forward at this time of great and urgent need. My concerns are growing, as the response from political leaders to date, seems to lack the urgency that is needed to meet this crisis.” He concluded with the simple but nonetheless profound wisdom of Reverend John Wesley:

“Do all the good you can,
By all the means you can,
In all the ways you can,
In all the places you can,
At all the times you can,
To all the people you can,
As long as ever you can.”

Listen to Bishop-Elect Michael and Gordon Brown on Radio 4.

TICCN Pastor Mick Fleming Pens Autobiography: Blown Away

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TICCN Pastor Mick Fleming Pens Autobiography: Blown Away

Blown Away shares the incredible journey Pastor Mick has been on over his life, from hardened criminal to the call of God and the start of Church on the Street. Interest in Pastor Mick’s journey has grown year on year and has been covered by the BBC, Songs of Praise, The Guardian, and many more.

“I was the worst of the worst and in every area of darkness, but I had hope I could change.”

Pastor Mick Fleming

Pastor Mick’s journey is a testimony to the change God can make in a persons life, you can’t change yourself, but through God, it’s possible.

‘It’s impossible to visit Church on the Street and not be deeply moved by the work the organisation does for those in need. It is an extraordinary place . . .’ HRH THE DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE, from the Foreword

The book is set to launch in September, and is available to pre-order now.

In the meantime you can discover some of Pastor Mick’s testimony in this interview with Bishop Steven Lyn Evans.


Archbishop Metropolitan Doyle Volentine Receives Award

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Archbishop Metropolitan Doyle Volentine Receives Award

We are so pleased to announce that Archbishop Metropolitan Doyle Volentine of The International Christian Church Network (TICCN) has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity Degree. The New Life Bible College Board of Regents have made this award in recognition of the remarkable work that Archbishop Doyle has done among some of the poorest communities in the world.

We recently spoke to Archbishop Metropolitan Doyle Volentine about the award and his remarkable international work for TICCN. Archbishop Doyle has personally funded and raised money to sponsor many missions around the world, especially in some of the poorest communities of Africa, India, Mexico and the Philippines. He has given sacrificially, both his time and other resources working among some of the worlds poorest people. His memories have been rich and inspirational to us.

His most impacting memories were of the Pastors living in poverty with nothing to eat themselves and still trying to care for others.

His most impacting memories were of the Pastors living in poverty with nothing to eat themselves and still trying to care for others. The impact of their love for people, their humility, and their devotion to God continues to inspire. He recalled how one Pastor brought two eggs forward as an offering, it might not seem like much but it was all that he had. At another time, a Pastor came forward with great sincerity and a cup of rice for the offering. He remembered the warmth and generosity of many of these Pastors as they would do their best to make his stay with them comfortable, offering whatever small comforts they had for his disposal. The most interesting observation was that they always wanted to give and didn’t use their lack as as excuse not to give. Clearly, the modern day equivalent to the widows mite (Mark 12:41-44). Indeed, we believe that the widows mite was proof of the depth of her faith in God. Faith always gives, always sows because it must be expressed.

He has almost died on two occasions on the missionary field once in South Sudan and another time in a remote area of Mexico.

At times, these missionary trips were dangerous and very uncomfortable, Archbishop Doyle has always stayed among the people in their villages and modest accommodation. He has almost died on two occasions on the missionary field once in South Sudan and another time in a remote area of Mexico. As a Grandfather figure to the church he explained that he has only tried to be an obedient servant of God. He continued “Mine was the joy, to see the faces of the people, smiling small children in the orphanages of Africa and India as our modest gifts were distributed. As medical supplies were provided to relieve peoples’ pain. As some hope of relief was distributed. To offer by our presence the proof that to God, these darling people were of great value and importance. We travelled around the world to meet them. I think of the children living on the trash heap in the Philippines, the tears and the pain. We’ve been involved, we’ve worked as best we could, we could do no less.”

  • TICCN working with army to feed Muslim families in need
    Army feeling program in the Philippines overseen by Bishop Stephen Villiester
  • Young children living on the dumps and collecting items to earn a living in the Philippines
  • Archbishop Doyle being escorted through the poverty ridden slums of Nairobi on the way to ordain TICCN ministers.
  • Archbishop Doyle and Bishop Steven with two Network Pastors outside St Thomas’ Mount Church, Chennai, India.
  • Archbishop Metropolitan Doyle Volentine and Presiding Bishop Steven Evans addressing a Pastors’ & Missionary Conference in Chennai, India.
  • Visiting the poor villages to share the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ.
  • St. Asaph’s Cathedral Wales, Archbishop Doyle with Bishop Steven and TICCN ministers

Archbishop Metropolitan Steven Announces His First Appointment

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Archbishop Metropolitan Steven Announces His First Appointment

Archbishop Metropolitan Steven has worked closely with Pastor Mick from Church on the Street in Burnley. He first took Pastor Mick through the TICCN pre-ordination course and following that, presided over his ordination in November 2019. Over the last three years he has mentored Pastor Mick through an unprecedented ministerial journey. He recalled the telephone conversation that initiated the first GoFundMe page. “I thought it was an excellent idea and we were aiming for £10,000 but following the BBC broadcast it was soon over £250,000. All of the funds help provide resources for those in need, the great needs in Burnley are being met through a ministry of love. Ministry isn’t about theology, it’s love first and theological truth manifests through love.”

Archbishop Metropolitan Steven announced his first ministerial appointment today. “Following my recent acceptance of the office of Archbishop Metropolitan within The International Christian Church Network, my first appointment is for Pastor Mick from Church on the Street in Burnley. I’m pleased to announce that Pastor Mick has accepted the office of Bishop and is now therefore officially Bishop-elect.

The consecration service is set for October 16th 2022. Please remember us in your prayers and Bishop-elect Michael especially as he prepares for the next step of his ministerial journey. ‘See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!’ (1 John 3:1a)

Introducing Reverend Christopher Hughes

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Introducing Reverend Christopher Hughes

Reverend Christopher Hughes was ordained as a TICCN minister in October 2021.

Reverend Christopher Hughes has travelled to over 50 countries talking with individuals and groups about the love, power and mercy of God. Christopher has worked with national and international groups and charities establishing churches and training the next generation of leaders. He uniquely combines the global interest in sport as a bridge for crossing cultures with speaking about the bible as a conduit for helping others find faith in Jesus.


Christopher is a martial arts expert and the author of a book that explores the relationship between Christianity and martial arts Taekwondo and Christianity.


He has studied theology, law and politics and he has worked within the NHS providing palliative care. He is a chaplain within the health service and a sports chaplain attached to a worldwide Surf Chaplaincy Movement. He is responsible for equipping chaplains in preparation for the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Mission To Africa

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Mission To Africa

2022 is off to a great start for the Kingdom of God! I am home from a month long mission to Africa. This has been the best trip for my health and strength for the past ten years, and the most intensive.

In Uganda I visited several churches to teach, all along dusty stone roads, for one we had to park the car and walk through a banana plantation to find a church or timber shed with 60 people, all having walked, but praising God enthusiastically.

Having travelled by road for many hours I crossed the border into Tanzania, at the point where Idi Amin used to throw his opponents into the crocodile infested river. The next church, in the mountains of Kamuli, Tanzania, was only accessible by foot, a Tanzanian Assemblies of God, timber framed building made with mud, where they had started an outreach venture to the youth through football. The Lancashire based charity ‘SportsReach’ which is well established in this method of evangelism had provided a full set of new, though out of date, authentic England Football Team outfits for me to present to this church. Many of the journeys were on the back of a motor cycle, which after a one and a half hour ride on a dusty stone track does not do a suit and tie much good, but I spent several days of Bible teaching meetings before moving on.

I travelled by bus a 13 hour journey along the side of Lake Victoria into Mwanza city. This proved to be a busy week. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday all started at 10 am teach one hour+, ten minutes break, teach one hour+, break for lunch then teach for one hour+. Saturday was free.

Sunday morning was outstanding! A full church of 350 and some outside listening through the open windows, to a call for a commitment to daily evangelism and a dedicated life, the response was 270+ made this promise to God.

The next church was in Nyehunge, 120km after the tarmac roads turned to stone tracks at Sengerema. Wednesday through Saturday required two or three messages each day, and one on Sunday morning.

Monday and Tuesday I travelled (two flights) from Tanzania to Nairobi. Wednesday a three hour drive to Kitui, Kenya for a TV recording, which was a great success. Thursday night fly home.

God Bless, David.

Ukraine Response

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Ukraine Response

TICCN Head office based at Living Faith Church in Orrell Greater Manchester has responded to the Ukrainian crisis. Notices were placed on social media outlets that food and essential supplies were going to be collected and then donated to the Ukraine and that the TICCN Living Faith Church was to be the focal point for local collections.

Local church volunteers rallied and items were collected over three days this week. The goods were then transported on Thursday this week via lorry directly to the Ukraine. We have also heard of other TICCN network churches responding with similarly tremendous generosity.

“The overwhelming response has been remarkable and fitting, our ongoing prayers are for peace and a swift end to this horrific crisis.”

Bishop Steven Lyn Evans

Thank you to all our TICCN network members, you’re making a massive impact.

Floods in Pakistan

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Floods in Pakistan

The people of Pakistan especially Pakistani Christians need urgent prayer and support to survive and save their lives. Recently, heavy rain has caused floods, and it has affected Christians more as they live in mud houses. Due to heavy rain and floods, the walls and roofs of their mud houses fell down causing people injuries, also caused some deaths.


In one city ‘Islamabad’ a total of 50 houses have demolished and they have lost everything as everything has swept away in water, now they have nowhere to live. They need urgent help for; food, kitchen crockery, medicine, tents, blankets and clothes.

For our previous Flood Relief Report, you can visit our link attached below;
http://www.hisgracechurchint.org/flood-relief.html

May the spirit of God inspire you for Pakistani suffering Christians. “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done” Proverbs 19:17

Best wishes and blessings,
Rt.Rev.Bishop Dr. Yousaf Nadeem Bhinder
Founder and General Overseer His Grace Churches International
http://www.hisgracechurchint.org