HEALED FROM SICKLE-CELL ANAEMIA

This testimony is really dear to my heart and I pray it encourages someone who is believing God for healing in any area of your life. I lost an elder brother, a cousin and a sister in-law to this deadly disease. My parents never got over the death of my brother even until they passed on. He was in his prime and so full of life. My sister in-law had just started a family but left behind a very young daughter. So I know first-hand about this disease and how it affects, the crisis, the pains sufferers and even carers go through, truly heartbreaking. I recently heard of another young lady in London who was so full of life however died from this disease. But you know what; I believe in the healing power of Jesus and I know there is power in his name!. Yes our loved ones have passed on as a result of this disease but God is still a good God and He remains faithful to His word. I am personally inspired by this testimony.

For those of you who do not know about this disease, here is a brief description of what it’s all about and what it does to the body. In this testimony, Mrs Taiwo Gbeminiyi Shonde shares with us how she was miraculously healed by the power in the name of Jesus. 

Sickle-cell disease (SCD), also known as sickle-cell anaemia (SCA) and drepanocytosis, is a hereditary blood disorder, characterized by an abnormality in the oxygen-carrying haemoglobin molecule in red blood cells. This leads to a propensity for the cells to assume an abnormal, rigid, sickle-like shape under certain circumstances. Sickle-cell disease is associated with a number of acute and chronic health problems, such as severe infections, attacks of severe pain ("sickle-cell crisis"), and stroke, and there is an increased risk of death.

Sickle-cell disease occurs when a person inherits two abnormal copies of the haemoglobin gene, one from each parent. Several subtypes exist, depending on the exact mutation in each haemoglobin gene. A person with a single abnormal copy does not experience symptoms and is said to have sickle-cell trait. Such people are also referred to as carriers. 

The terms "sickle-cell crisis" or "sickling crisis" may be used to describe several independent acute conditions occurring in patients with SCD. SCD results in anemia and crises that could be of many types including the vaso-occlusive crisis, aplastic crisis, sequestration crisis,haemolytic crisis, and others. Most episodes of sickle-cell crises last between five and seven days.[3] "Although infection, dehydration, andacidosis (all of which favor sickling) can act as triggers, in most instances, no predisposing cause is identified.

Read Mrs Shonde’s testimony

‘I write to you with great joy in my heart how Jesus turned my life around. I was born a sickle cell patient through the gene- type of my parents and became a carrier which led to immense crises all through my growing up years. This particular ailment was called rheumatism, the pain of the bone which I was told was caused by difficult circulation of blood in the vein axis.

Growing up was like hell because apart from the pain and the fear of it, I also lived in bondage for years before Jesus’s intervention.

I was restricted from doing what my mates could do, there was a lot of don’t touch, don’t eat, don’t go, don’t wear by the doctor and I lived all through this period on drugs. I was made to know that without this pill, my life will would finally come to an end. It was total bondage.

During this period of pain, I would cry, shout, throw myself to the ground, destroy things I could find around me just because of restlessness the pain caused and sometimes I would just pray to God though I never knew exactly who I was praying to. However, in the year 2000 I met Jesus and after giving my life to him, He started a thorough work on me. He revealed so many lies that the world had made me believe and started renewing my mind through his word.

This is the best experience I have ever known, as I got my mind renewed, what the doctor’s and my parents had said to me didn't matter any more, things started to change.

I started living my life and acting based on God’s word, I stopped taking my drugs and started living the word of God and acting on it. Today, God has made me completely whole through his word, I no longer feel pain neither do I remember how it feels because Jesus healed me completely.

My earnest joy is not only in being healed but to let you know that Jesus is the greatest healer and that he can heal your situation, you only need to be his friend by giving your life to him. I am now happily married, running my own business with no jot of pain in my body. 

I give God all the glory for his love and his word'.

Such a powerful testimony. We bless God for your life and for the life of your twin sister. Mrs Shonde is a twin and her sister also suffered from this disease but she too has been healed and delivered. May your testimonies remain permanent and continue to inspire others.

I'VE LEARNED MORE FROM MISTAKES THAN SUCCESSES

I was at an event last year and while sound-checks was going on, I heard this song 'Lighthouse' playing and was captivated by it. I then asked who the artist was and I was told 'Philippa Hanna'. I immediately bought her album of iTunes. There's something about her lyrics that is engaging. Philippa released her debut album 'Watching me' in 2007 and has grown from her roots in the Gospel scene to be one of UK's most engaging and inspiring songwriters. With over four albums, her music has offered a positive message that has touched the hearts of audiences world over. 

We are so privileged to have her with us at our annual worship event 'Engage' this year. She loves Scotland hahahah! 

Well you can get to know more Philippa Hanna in my exclusive interview with her.

Hello Philippa, It's a privilege having you on iTestify blog, for a few of our readers who have never met you, could you please tell us, "Who is Philippa Hanna?"

She's a girl -  Bubbly blonde and northern. She has an Irish entertainer father and a school teacher mum. She's a thinker, a dreamer and a little bit of a nutter. She's always written songs and came out of the womb singing. She's a born again Christian as of 10 years ago. She married a pastors kid and they have a Jack Russell cross. No kids yet. Wow this third person business makes me feel like a diva! Lol.  

Hahahah I know right? 'A little bit of a nutter' I like that; that's what  makes you You. So tell us what was growing up like for you especially coming from a musical family.

I grew up in Barnsley, watching my dad from side of stage at shows and learning all the lines from Pantomimes my parents were starring in! I went to a normal school and did lots of normal things. 

Awesome. Your dad is described as a travelling performer, how exactly has his life style and career influenced your life today?

I love the road! I feel free on the motorway. And I get itchy if I'm home too long. More than anything though, it's taught me to work hard. 

Thank God for hard-working parents. Since you became a child of God, your life and music seemed to have changed. How did it happen?

Well, sorry to be pedantic but I've always been a child of God I just didn't know it :-) But at age 20 I invited the Holy Spirit into my life. I became friends with some Christians and their love really witnessed to me. From there I began attending the odd Christian event here and there. One night I experienced a sense of God's presence during worship and asked Jesus to help me turn my life around. That moment the Holy Spirit made His home in me. When the Holy Spirit in dwells it just transforms you from the inside out. It changes your perspective on everything- like looking through a clear windscreen for the first time. I realized there was a bigger picture and a purpose for my life. 

Wow, you're so right there. Always been a child of God but didn't know it. Thankful for the right friends God placed in your path. Before asking Jesus to turn your life around, what kind of music did you do?

Mostly pop, dance and R&B 

Most of your lyrics are very deep and full of God's love, how do songs come to you? How do you capture your thoughts?

Thank you very much! :) The songs I write are an out-working of what I experience in daily life. Kind of like a journal. I just try to be honest. God is massively at work in our lives. Just telling our story paints a picture of that. 

I really like that. Philippa, this is a little tricky but I am going to ask you, "which is the most favourite song you ever sang or wrote?”

I really can't answer that! They're like children. They're all different. But songs like Lighthouse & New For Old are great songs to bridge a faith and mainstream gap. I like to try and present the gospel in a fresh way. So new people can relate. 

I'd imagine, as they all are truly different. I do particularly like 'Lighthouse', its one of my favourites. Who do you consider your strongest influences in music?

Stevie Wonder, The Carpenters, Alanis Morrissette, Whitney Houston, The Police and Prince. 

If you had the chance to speak to the entire world, what will be your message to them? What would be your testimony? What would you tell them about God? 

He's real. There's an amazing spiritual realm that we don't see with our eyes/ but once you know it's there's everything makes more sense. Jesus Christ is not just a Historical figure. He was a manifestation of God in human form-(a son of the creator). He died on a cross and rose from the dead, defeated death making it possible for us to know true life. Man has drifted away from the Truth. The truth about life and existence. Jesus reveals it. Everything becomes clear and beautiful in Him. But you don't need to take my word for it. Ask God to reveal Himself to you Through Jesus. You'll see for yourself. 

Everything really does become clear and beautiful in Him. That's so true. Would you tell us about your charity work and what projects you are currently working on?

I founded the Raggedy doll foundation a couple of years back. We are a Rag-doll making community that stitch dolls to give away along with a message of self-worth. We focus primarily on building self-esteem in children. I'm also an ambassador for Chad sponsorship organization Compassion.  

  

Wow! Fantastic! May God reward your labour of Love. Your schedule for the year seems really busy, it's amazing! How do you spend your typical day? Do you find time to rest?

If I'm at home: Get up. Drink tea. Put out the dog and feed him. Shower, pray, put make-up on. Answer emails and messages, go to the office and do meetings, fundraising, mentoring sessions, design merchandise, plan events and tours, do press etc. Come home, do house stuff, watch TV, eat, sleep, repeat.  If I'm on tour. Wake up, eat, travel play, meet people, travel, sleep, repeat. It's a lot simpler :) 

Do you have any regrets?

Not really. That doesn't mean I haven't made mistakes. But I've learned more from mistakes than successes. So I don't regret them.

What challenges have you encountered on your journey?

It's hard when people don't get your vision. But it's more important to please God than man. Do what you feel called to. Man will catch up. 

Thank you for that. Please God! Man will catch up. What are your most memorable moments?

Touring with Lionel Richie. Playing main stage at Big Church Day out, hearing Lighthouse on BBC Radio 2, getting amazing letters from people who have found my songs helpful. 

You will be on several concerts and cities this year, and for the first time this you will be in Aberdeen ministering at ENGAGE in August, what are your expectations?

I'm praying for people to hear from God! Whether through my songs or the other ministries at the event. 

I say Amen to that! Any advice for aspiring artists and musicians

Be yourself. Work hard on your musical skills. Always tell yourself 'I'll do better next time.' When you have a tough performance experience. Keep your eyes on Jesus and take each day as it comes. 

Thank You. Finally tell us 5 things about yourself

I love animals 

I cry at talent shows

I love spicy food 

If I wasn't a singer I’d be a fiction novelist or a councillor

I had a phobia of apples for a while. Over it now! 

Awww you cry at talent shows lol. Thank you so much Philippa for sharing with us on iTestify blog. We indeed appreciate you. See you in August

You can follow Philippa on

Twitter: @Philippahanna

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philippahanna?fref=ts

Instagram :@philippahanna

Website: http://philippahanna.com/#

A PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE HAS ALWAYS BEEN TOP PRIORITY FOR ME

I recently had a chat with the CEO of WiGRadio, an Internet Radio station based in Lagos Nigeria but broadcasting worldwide. He has such an inspiring testimony; we asked him if he would love to share his story with 'iTestify' and he said yes. It is amazing how much joy and fulfilment come from walking in purpose and doing the will of God. I pray that as you read this story, you will be inspired to do that which you were purposed for.

Hi Mr. Perfect thanks for the opportunity to share your testimony and success with us. Can you please tell us who Mr. Perfect Olawale is?

My name is Olawale Perfect; I am a Christian, the youngest from a family of five. I studied Bio-Chemistry at the University of Lagos where I was privileged under God to graduate with a first class. I have a Post Graduate Diploma in Mass Communication; I am presently in session for my master’s degree in Mass Communication. I love God, I am privileged to be the Chief Executive Officer of WiGRadio. Through WigRadio, God has helped us to do a lot of great things. If you ask me who I am, there is no way I can describe myself at this time without WigRadio coming into the picture.

Wow that's a lot of degrees. Where did the name Perfect come from? I know names are very important and significant. So how did the name come?

When I was in secondary school, I adopted the name “Perfect” and it stuck. I wouldn’t say that I am a perfectionist but I am close to being one. The name “Perfect” actually came through the name perfect scientist. It was a nickname for me then because I was a science student and I was President of JETS Club Union in one of the zones.  I was known as perfect scientist and I just adopted the name. Somewhere along the line, I already knew that science was something I might not really practice. However if you ask me why the name stuck, I would say it is based on my revelation of God's word in Matthew 5:48 that says "Be ye perfect as your heavenly father is perfect. That for me is a calling to strive unto perfection just like my father. So each time people call me that name, they are reminding me that I must live, act, talk and behave like my Father who is in heaven."

Hmmm interesting! What was growing up like for you?

Growing up was quite interesting. I spent most of my childhood days alone and I had few friends. I did not start socializing with people until recently. My best friends then were my books. My dad had a library of books so I picked anyone that caught my fancy and just kept reading. By the time I was eight years old, I had read a lot of books on business, money, investments and spiritual matters because those were the books I found in my dad's library. That culture of reading was to become a highly beneficial advantage to me later in life. I also spent time with my grandmother. My grandma was the one that taught me never to waste resources. I remember one incidence when I threw away a ball of "eba" (local Nigerian food). My grandmother told me that people who do such things would experience hunger for three days because there are some people who do not have food to eat. That was the last time I ever wasted food.

Hahaha! I think I should use that line on my kids. Please can you tell us the story behind Wigradio! When was it inaugurated?

In the course of my service year( Fresh graduates in Nigeria usually go on a one year national service), I heard the Spirit of God tell me to stay back in Ebonyi State where I was posted to for instructions. I was just praying when I heard the Spirit of God tell me ‘Perfect, I am not going to ask you to go back to Biochemistry, I have an assignment for you in the media’. God told me to go and apply for a Post Graduate Diploma in Mass Communication and it was like a double demotion but I was convinced that it was God.

During the program, some of my course mates got my book and somebody just walked up to me and said ”do you mind coming to the University of Lagos Radio to talk about self-publishing?”. I was happy because it was what I had been praying for. Before I went for the broadcast, I spent quality time praying and that broadcast was awesome. Immediately I finished talking, almost everyone in the station came out to see who was talking; they saw the young boy and some of them found it difficult to believe.

That was the open door I was waiting for. I was on the University radio for nine months without paying a dime. At the end of my Postgraduate Diploma, God told me that it was time to start a radio station. During that period I travelled to Ebonyi, I was opportune to talk to some key guys in Ebonyi Broadcasting Corporation and I realized that starting a radio station in Nigeria would cost nothing less than 50 million (naira) that is over 250,000 USD.

I came back with faith; one day the idea just dropped- “internet radio station!” I began to do my research and I realized that most internet radio stations were abroad. I walked up to one of my friends that was into ICT; before I left his place that day, we realized that it was possible. Immediately, I fixed a date for the launch of WigRadio. To be candid, at that time, all I had in my GTbank account was 200 naira( $1.00). That is why I tell people that we started WigRadio with 200 naira. The provisions began to come. “When the vision is from God, the provisions would come”.

The first time we went on air in 2013, I didn’t have an internet enabled phone to listen, I had to borrow my sister’s Blackberry to log on to www.wigradio.com and I heard music playing. I was so excited. At that time, a lot of people in Nigeria didn’t know what internet radio was all about.
We decided from the beginning that our content would edify people and move them from where they are to where they ought to be which is where God wants them to be. We run business programs too. We recently celebrated our second year anniversary in March.

Congratulations, it’s amazing where God has brought you from. Online broadcasting seems to be a new wave right now, what are the main challenges you face and what is the follower-ship like?

Within two years of operations, WiGRadio which is live online, 24 hours a day has been able to capture a reach of 110 countries with active presence and broadcast outlets in three continents of the world. I thank God that God did not tell me about the challenges because if I had seen the challenges, I would never have started but God has seen us through. One challenge is the fact that people want you to do everything for them for free without thinking about where the resources would come from. We have staff, we pay salaries, we run on fuel, we consume internet data, and we spend money on so many things. We are not sponsored or affiliated to any church or ministry. We are simply operating by faith in God who has called us into this work. So when we render services to people, we tell them that they should make a financial donation to keep this work going but many of them just tell us "God bless you". Some of us have had to close down our bank accounts and had to work extra hard doing other jobs because we want the good news of the gospel to get to the ends of the earth. We however thank God for the people who have willingly called us to be a part of what God is doing through us. We stand today to say we have never had any course to beg anyone because that was the instruction God gave us that he would meet our needs by himself.

That is an awesome testimony. When you abandoned your first class certificate for the call of God, what was it like, how did your family and friends perceive you?

It was a tough decision to study Post graduate diploma in mass communication after graduating with a first class in Bio chemistry from the University of Lagos. The decision to make a switch to media was one of the toughest decisions I have ever made. I had other offers to take up lecturing jobs in Bio-chemistry but I declined because I was convinced I had to be in the media. I have also had to close down my bank accounts on several occasions because I believed in this vision. It is important to use what you have first to pursue your vision; people will show up to support you. I had to delay personal gratification like shopping for new clothes because I had so many projects to execute at Wigradio. Today, my family members are happy that I am doing the work of God and they have given me all the support I can pray for. They have been so wonderful.

God uses the little you have and sends help, I pray He brings all the support Wigradio needs. On iTestify blog, we showcase the goodness of God in the lives of his people. Tell us what are you most grateful for?

A purpose driven life has always been top priority for me. This is the reason why I am not moved by what others are doing. I keep asking myself, “What does God expect me to be doing at this phase of my life?” Being an entrepreneur has helped me to make decisions based on what God wants me to do rather than what people consider right to do. This makes me appear strange to people sometimes but that is part of what makes my life story interesting. I had an experience recently where I received a letter to come for an interview with NNPC (a Nigerian Oil and gas corporation) but I did not attend the interview. I was at a youth program that day where I was challenging them to discover and run with their God ordained purpose. I am most grateful that I followed God and he has not failed me

Where do you see Wisdom gate radio in the next 5 years?

I see wisdom gate as being a blessing to at least two billion people on the face of the earth. Wisdom gate radio will have a terrestrial platform in the next five years also.

I say amen and believe with you. What advice do you have for upcoming entrepreneurs like yourself?

Be connected to God and understand that you can achieve anything, but you need to work it out. Stop waiting for people to encourage you. Encourage yourself and run with your vision. Then people will come to run with you.

That is so key, ‘encourage yourself’ everyone needs that message, as we most times wait for others to encourage or support us. If there was ever something from your past you need to change, what would that be?

If I had the chance to start anew, I would love to change some of the bad experiences I have had with some people and make it better. I have come to realize that my greatest asset is not the business or the money that I make but the people I am surrounded with. I would love to ensure that every single person that I come in contact with me leaves with a pleasant testimony. I could be so busy at times that I don’t give enough attention to some of the important details in the lives of others. However, it is one thing I have been working steadfastly on and I am making progress daily. I want to be a blessing to more lives on planet earth. 

Thank you so much for your time and I pray God continues to prosper the work of your hands as you serve in His vineyard.

Please log on to http://www.wigradio.com/ to learn more about WiGRadio

Meet Heather Robb

Hey guys! I am back after a slight break, hope you didn't miss me that much or hope I didn't miss out on anything hahaha.

Well I had the opportunity to speak to one of the Worship Leaders in Aberdeen who has recently recorded her first album. Her Pastor saw me on STV last year talking about my album project 'Arise' and asked her to get in touch with me as she was planning to do same. When we spoke I could feel her heart and passion for God. She's got such a rich tone in her voice and I believe the world needs to hear her.

Read my exclusive interview with her and be inspired. Go support her and by her album.

Who is Heather?

I’m Heather Robb, worship leader at Oasis Christian Fellowship who lives in Aberdeen with my husband and two children.

Awesome, could you tell us about your salvation experience

I was brought up in a Christian home faithfully attending church every Sunday (kind of had to go as my dad was the minister!!!) I loved going and have very happy memories!! Growing up I was very aware of God’s hand on our lives and I knew that I wanted to continue living this way.

I grew up in a Christian home as well and know that feeling 'lol' So when did you find out you were called to be a worship leader?

I have been involved in praise and worship for many years, and throughout this time I experienced God‘s nudging in this direction. I received a word many years ago from a complete stranger that I was to be used in this area which left me excited and wanting more!!!!

I love it when we receive those words that totally just bears witness with our spirits. We understand you have just recently released your debut album 'Victorious' Can you please tell us a bit more about this? Why did you choose now to release this album?

‘Victorious’ is a collection of worship songs written by myself, although one which belongs to my husband! Having written songs for many years I wanted to put together a little sample of what God’s been doing and share this with others. I believe that everything’s in his timing and although it’s something that has been on my heart for quite sometime I knew this was the time to finally step out!!

Timing is so very key! What inspired 'Victorious'?

The title was taken from the name of the song ‘Victorious’ which I believe I received specifically for the cd and it remained with me throughout the process. Life can throw many ups and downs at us but through it all, because he is victorious, therefore so are we!!

What do you hope 'Victorious' to achieve?

I had no personal goal in mind when I set out to do this project other than just wanting to share with others what he has given to me and through doing so that people would hopefully be encouraged and uplifted.

What's your memorable experience as a worship leader?

Over the years there has been many times where I’ve witnessed great things in worship. I’m continually left amazed when I see what he can do when we choose to focus on him and lift him up in song, and when we think that all we can give is just small, how he takes it and uses it. Every time in worship can be memorable as he’s always doing something new!!

He is indeed always doing something new. What challenges do you face as a worship leader?

I guess like others in this role, you go through times where life becomes a little difficult! But I’ve learnt that it’s in these moments that we need to rise up and worship!! Things can always happen to try and throw us off course but choosing to focus on him is often the time when we see great breakthrough and testimony!!

I couldn't agree more with you. Focussing on Him at difficult times. Have there been times you thought of giving up on this dream? If so, what has kept you going?

Producing the cd took alot of time and effort but it was something I thoroughly enjoyed!! It was a great experience and I was motivated by the encouragement of friends and family.

Thank God for encouraging friends and family. What would we do without them? How do you balance ministry and family life?

Mmmmh....life is busy I’ll admit, as I’m sure you’ll know!! and sometimes you plan to have your preparation time and it doesn’t always go according to plan!! I believe God understands life’s demands, especially when you have children which he gave us to look after!! However I do lay aside time for this, as it’s a very important part of the ministry, and having a supportive husband who knows the time out I have to take, is great!

You can say that again.Thank God for the children He has blessed us with. Who's your greatest influence in music?

I wouldn’t say there’s anyone specific, as I enjoy a variety of music, but I do feel drawn to the worship style of Kari Jobe and Chris Tomlin and the passion and enthusiasm of the Planetshakers, Hillsongs and Elevation Worship so quite a mix there!!

Lovely. Do you play any instruments, if so which and when did you learn to play?

I learnt to play guitar as a young teenager (not that long ago really!!!!) and some years later a friend taught me to play the keyboard which gave me a nice choice to write from.

That's awesome. What advice do you have for aspiring worship leaders?

(In brief!!!!) try and stay focused on who and what it’s all about!! You don’t need to be part of the biggest and best band but be in the place where he wants you and use the gifts and talents he has given you to help lead others into his awesome presence, and enjoy!!!!

Wow I love that ' you don't need to be part of the biggest and best band'! What are your hobbies?

Music, music and......you’ve guessed it!! I also love to paint when I get some free time (whatever that is!!)

Oh painting that's exciting. Of course music hahhah! How do you see the Christian music ministry/industry in Aberdeen?

Things are happening in this area and I think it’s great and very encouraging! Hopefully Aberdeen will continue to experience many wonderful things in its Christian music ministries and find that it’s exciting times ahead!!!

Finally tell us 5 things about Heather

-I’m a trained Nursery Nurse but currently a full time mum which I love!!

-My sister (also a Nursery Nurse) and I married brothers which is always a great conversation piece!!

-I bought my first electric guitar from my husband, that’s when we first met!!

-I have written a variety of music for worship, weddings, and child dedications!!

-I’ve recently sung for a lady in Fyvie (Ilona Clail) who wrote a song to raise money for children in Africa, it’s called ‘Come Holy Spirit Come’. It can be found on You Tube and iTunes.

If you would like to hear some samples from the cd this can be done by visiting iTunes.

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/victorious/id943837505

Thank You so much Heather for Your time and I do pray that Your music bring the
uplifting and encouragement as you desire.

Blessings

Eloho

TEC Presents Amazed at Your Love

The long awaited debut Single - 'Amazed at Your Love' by Ola Olaleye of 'The Esther Company' (TEC) is now available on iTunes and other digital stores What a way to celebrate Easter.

I encourage you to check it out here. https://itun.es/gb/pGUp6

You can listen to it here. https://soundcloud.com/tecmusicproject/amazed-at-your-love

THE FILLING STATION

When you hear the name 'The Filling station' what comes to mind is the American Restaurant and Bar in Aberdeen and some other locations. A couple of days ago when I mentioned it to a friend, she actually asked in shock 'The bar?'. And I laughed and said no. Today I am really excited and privileged to talk about 'The Filling Station' in this post. Don't worry, you will soon find out who and what 'TFS' is all about.

I met Craig Mackay who is the now Regional Director for 'TFS' Scotland a couple of years ago at an event where I was leading worship with the Heartsong team and he and his team were also there. That was one great night, fast forward to 2014, we were opportune to lead worship at a 'TFS' event. What an amazing night that was, we could have carried on all night, there was such a tangible presence of God in an engaging time of worship. 

So I asked Craig if he didn't mind me featuring 'TFS' in my blog and he accepted. So this is exclusive to 'iTestify' #chuckles. Aside from featuring encouraging and life transforming testimonies on this blog, we also want to showcase teams, people, organisations,worship leaders, artists, ministries and all those who are making impact in their communities.

So I welcome you to read all about 'The Filling Station', there is so much to learn and gain from this. I do pray that you re inspired as you read! 

iTestify: Thank you so much Craig for agreeing to feature on 'iTestify' Could you please tell us about The Filling Station?

Craig Mackay: The Filling Station or "TFS" as it is commonly called is a contemporary vehicle for bringing Christian Renewal and Evangelism to rural areas of the UK. It is important to stress that it is not a new church or denomination and is intended to serve the local church.

iTestify: That is brilliant! So what then is the vision/ mission of TFS?

Craig Mackay: I always like the general mission statement of "Rural Renewal" when describing what we do, but more specifically, the biblical mandate for this is taken from Psalm 114 v 8 "Who turned the rock into a pool, the hard rock into springs of water" We see the pools described here as places of deep spiritual refreshment for the existing Church, bringing water into perhaps hard and dry areas.

Back in 2003 our UK director saw a picture from God of the land (UK) covered in a dark mist which prevented the light from breaking through - he then saw  that mist being broken in small whirlwinds created by the Prayers and Worship of Gods people. This is where The Filling Station comes in!

The vision therefore is to see Christians grow in their giftings, to understand who they are in Christ and to come together from all churches to burn that mist away!!

iTestify: I really do like the fact that it is about coming together from different churches. It is important to say we are all part of one big church! Tell us when and how 'TFS' was inaugurated?

Craig Mackay: It all started about 9 years ago, in the heart of Southern England when, after an Alpha Course, a small group of Christians started to meet together monthly to continue the theme of food, teaching, Holy Spirit and Ministry.

From this original post-Alpha group, several more similar gathering started in the South East and caught the attention of a wonderful Anglican Vicar - Richard Fothergill, who instantly saw the great need for such Rural Renewal.

Without any real marketing or strategy, the movement has grown by Gods power every year since and thus "The Filling Station" was born!

iTestify: That is so encouraging. When God gives a vision, He makes provision! How many TFS exists?

Craig Mackay: There are currently 7 in Scotland and another 59 around the UK and Europe. We even started the first ever Ski Resort Filling Station - in Villars, Switzerland after a holiday there this New year. The Scottish Filling Stations are based in the Black Isle, Lossiemouth, Portsoy, Alford, Creiff and Callander and Fife. They are all very different in size and character and this is the wonderful benefit of being led by a local host team and not by us TFS directors.

iTestify: Oh wow Ski Resort? Interesting. What's the TFS message?

Craig Mackay:To hear the voice of God, the will of God, the purpose of God and to stretch oneself in ministry, in worship and in unity

iTestify: Unity, that is so key! I know you must have had some great stories from 'TFS', could you share some? 

Craig Mackay:There are so many stories from around the UK of people choosing to return to church life after being at a FS meeting and many, many stories of people accepting Jesus into their lives and joining local churches as a result of being at a FS meeting.

The supernatural growth of the organisation has also been astonishing to those involved in the Ministry and particularly its founder Richard Fothergill. At least 2 new Filling Station are currently inquiring every week!

It has also been encouraging to see people move into this part of the country, having enjoyed TFS gatherings elsewhere in the UK and likewise for those leaving the North East who have found TFS gatherings in their new home areas. Isn't that great!

iTestify: Astonishing indeed! Do you plan to set up more?

Craig Mackay: Yes! - God willing! - but only in response to a desire by people on the ground so to speak. We as Trustees and Directors won't be starting up Filling Station gatherings unless a team of people come together in an area to make it happen. We can then serve them with resources, speakers, media and support to help them enjoy it and to watch them grow.

iTestify: What makes TFS different?

Craig Mackay: Several key features of TFS (The Filling Station) are different. The first thing is the venue - we ask our hosts to find unique and cosy places to gather together and usually on a week night, never a Sunday.

This is not always possible for the larger gatherings but even for larger town hall venues, we encourage the teams to be creative and enjoy setting up environments that could not be described as "religious". This is particularly important for non-Christians that come or for those that have been distant from Church for any length of time.

 Another major difference that people encounter, especially in the North East of Scotland, would be the contemporary worship and the freedom to explore the supernatural power of God, His gifting and Ministries. There is definitely a heart for going deeper with God in Scotland and I think Clan Gathering and the work of the travelling speakers and Worship leaders has been a big influence on this.

Testify: It is so important to encourage non-Christians and I am glad TFS is doing this. What are some of the challenges you encounter?

Craig Mackay: I think there are 2 main challenges that face Filling Stations around the UK, one of which I think we can perhaps do something about and the other perhaps not.

The first challenge is the lack of equipped and spirit led worship teams or lone worship leaders available to serve the growing number of FS gathering around Scotland. I think we can do something with this challenge!. TFS enjoys a wonderful list of speakers who have agreed to serve Scottish Filling Stations, including Sandy Millar, Kenny Borthwick, Allan McWilliam etc but no list of worship teams.

I know that many of my host teams around the country do wish they had confident musicians in there midst but many do not.

Wouldn't it be great if we could create a list of teams and individuals all over Scotland who were willing and able to bring sincere Worship times to all gatherings in our nation!!...Please Lord Please!

The other more difficult challenge is unfortunately the resistance of some Church Leaders to this ministry starting up in their areas. Strangely, England does not suffer the same resistance as Scotland does and whilst, I have witnessed support for TFS from all manner of denomination and Church, I must say the same cannot be said for their leaders.

I pray constantly for the blessing and trust of the Established Gathered Church because I know TFS can serve them well if they embraced it.

These things take time and in the meantime His purposes are unfolding before our eyes! Hallelujah!

iTestify: Wow! I do pray that God will make a way! Where do you see TFS in the next 5 years?

Craig Mackay: I certainly see it growing as more and more people get along to a meeting in their area and catch the vision for setting up their own gathering.

I also see perhaps a North East Conference to enable the Scottish teams to come together annually to share and bless each other and to lift the roof in Worship wherever we might be!

iTestify: That would be really awesome! Are you involved in any projects a at the moment? 

Craig Mackay: I am just getting to grips with my new role as Regional Director for Scotland and slowly getting around all the existing host teams to encourage them and serve them.

The most exciting part of this new role is our efforts to build up a list of worship leaders who might be equipped, able and willing to travel small distances to serve churches, gatherings and Filling Stations around the country. I have already received wonderful offers of help from several large churches around the country who have released their Worship teams to assist when called. I love this kind of sharing resources for His Glory!

iTestify: Congratulations om your new role Craig, I pray for wisdom and grace for you! Is there anything else you'd like us to know?

Craig Mackay: All the Scottish FS teams are coming together at this year’s Clan Gathering in Largs in July, so some of your readers can meet us there and find out more.

iTestify: How do you see the music ministry in Scotland?

Craig Mackay: Over the last 2 or 3 years I have seen a significant increase in Worship teams sharing their resources, Allan McKinlay, Steph Mcleod, Ranan, David Ross etc etc are all busy serving meetings, events and churches that either don’t have their own teams or need experienced Spirit led leaders who can encourage freedom in Worship wherever they go.

I see the Music Ministry as being already richly blessed and perhaps ready to emerge from our usual buildings and gatherings to "model" freedom in sung worship to those that are hungry for this, in Scotland.

iTestify: That is so profound! What do you think we can do to forge unity amongst musicians, artists, singers and worship leaders? 

Craig Mackay: Social Media has been wonderful for encouraging us, informing us and equipping us to serve God in music, in Scotland. The various forums set up by many musicians, including the Facebook group - "Christian Musicians Aberdeen", help to keep us all informed and have actually helped our own Filling Station team find musicians too! - isnt that wonderful!

At a time when there might appear to be so much division in many matters, the level of unity, encouragement and agreement amongst Scottish Worship leaders and musicians is so precious and I think all we need to do is keep Worshiping, keep saying YES to those calls for our help and to keep getting to know each other more.

I feel He has a special plan for us all!

iTestify: That is so so precious, we all need to know each other more, encourage and support one another. 'Together we stand' Any word of advice?

Craig Mackay….keep stepping out the boat! for Him!

For anyone who loves their own Church and thinks that their area would benefit from a Filling Station meeting during the week, once a month - please get in touch with me on 0781 387 2818 or by email on craig@thefillingstation.org.uk. Check out the website on Thank you Craig for sharing with us. www.thefillingstation.org.uk

I pray the Lord continues to prosper the work andd raise helpers for you! God bless You! You are an inspiration!

Eloho