News
News
Autumn 2010
Being Bold Actor David Suchet was recently quoted in the press and media as suggesting that Christians are being marginalised in the UK. Returning as Poirot in a television adaptation of Murder on the Orient Express he said, “We are in danger of losing the importance of the Christian faith in our own country.” David described his own spiritual turning point as, “I was lying in a bath in my hotel, thinking about my grandfather. And I remember thinking ‘Isn’t it interesting that I feel my grandfather is with me and yet I don’t believe in an afterlife?’ So I went straight out and bought a Bible and read St Paul’s letter to the Romans. He describes how to be as a Christian, and it slotted right into what I had been searching for: something beyond, something quite mystical, but also a way of being that I could relate to.” As we support many in the business like David, Christians in Entertainment is delighted to encourage a strong spiritual presence in the profession.
East End to West-End CIE has worked in London`s West End theatre scene for some 27 years now, and our support for those in one of the world’s top entertainment cities continues. Personal visits, discussion clinics and prayer meetings are always available to those working in the 52 theatres that London boasts, while our mobile ministry across the UK supports those working away from family, friends and church. Recently we have stayed in touch with performers touring away from home for 12 months and more.
Entertainment Sunday 2011 will be on February 6th and another new DVD featuring a further glimpse behind the scenes of our work is available free to congregations across the UK. If you received last year’s disc we will send this to you automatically in early January. If not please ask your minister if your church would like to take part next year and use the pink form enclosed or email us. As it’s not dated, your church can view the DVD at any time during the year. Wendy Craig and Dads Army Vicar, Frank Williams recently held a special Entertainment Sunday event in a local Berkshire church in August and Chris spoke about the work of CIE, which helped many to have a greater understanding of the profession whilst encouraging and informing their prayers.
All Aboard! Many of those we look after are away for long periods of time aboard the cruise liners. Whilst we can’t always arrange to meet them on board, we provide support through texts and emails. Several Christians in Entertainment performers were involved in the first UK Spiritual Adventure Cruise in March. In an age when Christian activity is often being sidelined, it`s exciting to see a major cruise company take on a new idea to offer a Christian-themed cruise. Syd Little, Don Maclean and Pam Rhodes joined 170 passengers in the footsteps of St.Paul and there are two further cruises in 2011 with Paul Jones & Fiona Hendley, Frank Williams, Pam Rhodes, Syd Little Janey Lee Grace and Dana. We are thankful that the help CIE has offered to performers over many years continues to support them as they give public testimony to their Christian faith.
Thank You – Like all charities at this time we have struggled financially and made budget cuts to ensure our resources are well used. We are grateful for your standing orders and one-off gifts which enable us to keep this vital ministry effective and afloat. As the advert says, “Every Little Helps!”
Thanks again for your support!
Chris Gidney – Director.