|
Ralph Chambers |
The links in
the list above show some 'paperwork' that we managed to pick up at the
meetings. |
18 July 2008
Some months ago my eldest daughter Ruth phoned to say "Turn on your radio" and someone (?) was hosting a radio programme in which you were mentioned and interviewed. All collectors items now! You will know this of course. Your website is SO interesting and God used your ministry in amazing ways. The names of other "Groups" - as you were then known - also revived memories and It was a privilege to have shared some events with you all. Do you know if Maurice Lee of "The Informers" is still around? The Children's Christian Crusade began in the autumn of 1964 and continued until 1996 when I reached 65 and officially retired. Our work consisted mainly of 8-day Sunday to Sunday church-based kids missions, but we were always aware of the challenge of the 'teens and invariably included a teenage "outreach" event on the Sat or Sun night. I need to go through old diaries as you have done, but estimate we conducted around 600 8-day missions in all parts of the UK. Irene is now 81 and in poor health having battled against Parkinson's Disease for almost 23 years. She lives with her older sister in Lymm about a mile away from Pam and me and I act increasing as carers for them both. Although very shaky on her legs she comes with me on Sunday mornings if I am out speaking otherwise accompanies us to Lymm Baptist Church where we all now attend. At 77 I enjoyed good health until being diagnosed with a heart problem a couple of years ago which has slowed me down and ruined my tennis! I am still an active player but now banned from league matches! I preach quite a bit - mainly Sunday mornings when I do All-age presentations with PowerPoint and Song-Pro. Don't think I will ever be free of equipment!. I continued leading our annual Holiday Bible Club at Lymm BC until 3 years ago when I took a back seat to encourage younger leaders - still miss it terribly! One of the last "official" missions we held was at St Leonard's, Bootle in July 1994 when I met up again with - WHOM - can't remember which one of you!! (John Boyes) My son-in-law is Singer/Songwriter Paul Field (married to Ruth mentioned above) who wrote and produced "Pass it on" and "Fit for life" (ICC) kids' albums for me. I eventually kicked my trusty piano accordion into touch and we had kids singing along to Paul's more contemporary songs. Please convey my best wishes to the other guys and may the Lord bless you all. Keep on following and serving Him to the end! Yours in Christ Ralph |
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