Work, Rest and Play

2011-03-28T15:43:00.002+02:00

I am the proud new owner of The Chemical Brother's latest album 'Further'. It's a stunning album, full of melodic magical beats that build and grow and fizz in your ears.

Favourite track has got to be 'Snow, with the line 'your love keeps lifting me...higher and higher'. I really think it's a cracker and would love to incorporate this track into some worship sets in Church

Final Day in the Centre

2010-10-22T16:38:00.002+02:00

So this is it. Today is the final day the Centre is open for summer 2010! I doubt anyone will actually pop down as nearly everyone has left to go home. The weather is beautiful at the moment too, so maybe some people are still trying desperately to tan.

We had a leaving meal last night at the Heasley's and Brian cooked us all a 'Fry', or a Full English as it's more commonly known. It was immense! I've forgotten how good a huge breakfast can be in the evening. There was even some black pudding on the plate, which us menfolk devoured. It was strange to wash it all down with some Beer, but i was able to go there, and i felt very comfortable.

Brownies!

2010-10-19T17:17:00.004+02:00

I made some scrummy brownies last week and they came out amazingly well. They were triple choc brownies, with dark, milk and white chocolate. They tasted awesome!

Here's a picture. Think i'll be making them again.

I actually made them for a leaving meal that i did for Poppy Wiliams. It's really sad that Poppy has left. She hails from Ohio in the States but currently resides in Las Vegas (the other sin city). She was such an inspirational woman whilst she was here, and she has such a heart for God and for prayer too. You know when you learn loads from someone without them really teaching or saying much? She's that type of person - really open to God and humble too.

The exciting thing is that i have a feeling that she'll be back on these shores to work with 24-7 Ibiza again. I wonder if a generous portion of triple chocolate brownies might help her come back here quicker?

The Final Poster i need.

2010-10-17T00:32:00.001+02:00

So i´ve been collecting the posters for the Space Opening and Closing parties that i´ve attended since living here and i miss only one. Yes, it´s very sad, but it just needs to be done. The one i am missing is the opening poster for 2008, and the line-up was immense. You can't quite see the line up in the poster above, but David Guetta, Fatboy Slim, Steve Lawler, Groove Armada....the DJs were great!

I wonder if i´ll get my hands on it?

Space Closing

2010-10-15T19:31:00.003+02:00

Yes, i went to Space Closing.
Yes, it was immense.
Yes, i danced from 9pm till about 5am!
And...Yes, my back was wrecked!

Poppy, Neil and i had a right result as we got in for free, which i never thought would be possible at such an event. My friend James is the manager of both Josh Wink and Riva Star, and they were both playing that night, so we were on one of the DJ´s lists. My fav act of the night was M.A.N.D.Y, and they rocked the Terraza, playing lots of techy, deep house. I loved their set, and even better when i bumped into some worker friends of mine. It was great to catch the outside flight arena too, seeing Steve Lawler play to about 4000 people.

It was a great way to celebrate the awesome summer that we´ve had, and i loved finishing the summer on such a high.

Lifehouse 'Everything'

2010-10-14T18:51:00.002+02:00

Lighthouse's 'Everything' is a such a powerful drama that i showed a couple of weeks ago when i preached. My talk was about how God has rescued us from darkness and brought us into the Kingdom of His son Jesus.

The drama (thanks Claire Ison for the inspiration) tells the story of Creation, when God made humankind and taught his creation to live right and dance in step with him. But it's not long before she is tempted and led astray, and walks away from God. She gets tangled up in image, starts to drink and soon gets into deep trouble, within which she cannot break free.

The whole time that she is seperated from her Father the Creator, he is watching, waiting and desperate for her to return to Him. But she is trapped, and unable to break loose. Suddenly, whilst on the edge of despair, she tries to break away but the bad stuff in her life but they take hold of her and keep her captive. After some time, God jumps in and fights on her behalf, over-powering the demons in her life. They fall away, and before you know it, she is free and safe and He dresses her in pure white.

It's such an amazing clip, and one which took my breathe away as i thought just what God has done for me. It made me cry to think that God fights for me and has done so much for me through Jesus dying on the cross for me. God has set us free in Jesus Christ.

Wow!!!

Dave the Rave

2010-10-13T18:38:00.000+02:00

I went to a funeral yesterday to remember and celebrate a guy called Dave the Rave. I got to know him through the English speaking Church here in Ibiza. He had cancer for the last 2 years, and although he put up a strong fight against it, it eventually took him.

I hung out with him quite a bit over the winter, as he lived by himself for quite a few months and was a mad football fan. He had Sky Sports and it was always on when i popped round, and it helped that he was a HUGH Man Utd fan. I watched many a game with him in his house. He was such a gentle man, always smiling and always ready to crack a really bad joke.

He had a very colourful life, and once hearing a few stories of the things he used to do, right from a DJ on cruise ships to being a strip-o-gram, you can tell why he got his name 'Dave the Rave'.

The funeral was sad, but also full of laughs, and he would have wanted that. His coffin was drapped with a Man Utd flag, and Bob the Vicar included a few of his corney jokes, which he is famous for. It was sad, but also awesome in knowing that he is with God now, and well and safe. I'll always remember him.

Best Summer yet!

2010-10-12T19:17:00.004+02:00

Yes, it's been forever since i last blogged. I have so many reasons for that, but now i have plenty of time to get back to doing some blogging and there is alot to catch up on.

We finished our last night out on the streets last Thursday night, which was sad. All of the main clubs have closed, with only Pacha open at the weekends, and many of the bars and clubs in San Antonio now shut for the winter. There are a few places still open, but the place is slowly becoming a bit of a ghost town. It's always odd seeing the West-end like this, as only one month ago it was still incredibly busy.

The Centre is still open, and i'm here now, and we've had one person in the whole time. Many of the workers have gone, but the few that still remain are going this week or they live here all year round.

We had our end of season meal at Villa Mercedes on Saturday. It was such a treat as we celebrated yet another amazing summer gone. The food was fab, and we had a few drinks too. That night we danced in Soul City - Yes! Soul City, as they had their closing party too. I still don't like the bumb and grind of R'n'B, but we gave it stacks for about an hour, with inspiration on how to do the grind all around us. Thankfully, we didn't copy any of them!

I promise i'll be on it with blogging, and continue to let you know what's going on.

Worship really begins when we leave our building!

2010-07-21T19:25:00.001+02:00

My thinking about worship has been totally changed over the years thanks to the work of 24-7 Ibiza. Brian Heasley has taught many times that the work we do out on the streets isn't just to be a witness, but that it's our worship to God.

I know that a significant part of our worship (and one that we won't ever stop doing) is glorifying and honouring God by singing songs to him; each night before we begin our work we sing and glorify God and thank Him for who He is and what He's done. Yet worship is so much more than that – it has to be. It feels like our worship only truly begins when we leave our building.

The worship that takes place out on the streets of Ibiza late at night and in the early hours of the morning has got to be my favourite type of worship, and dare I say - the type I believe God is really after. It's the type of worship that is messy and dirty. Sometimes, this worship leaves you covered in someone's sick, sweat, even blood. Our worship goes even deeper when we include some of these things: we help the lost get home; we pick up people who are too drunk to walk; we listen to someone pour out their problems and concerns; we give groups of friends a free lift home when taxis won't take them, and the list could go on.

In summing up my thoughts, this is what took place a few Sundays ago. We had our usual meeting that takes place on Sunday nights in which we sung a few songs that honoured God and lifted up his name. As soon as we left the building, we found a guy who was drunk and a bit cut up and needed some help getting home, so we popped him into our van and drove him to his hotel and then Brian and myself helped him get to his hotel room. We said our goodbyes and thought how great is was that we got to help him in his time of need.

As we got back into the van and left to go home, what we did really began to sunk in: that was our spiritual act of worship right there - worship that our Father is after. It really felt that our 'service' really only began once we left the building.

Clothed v Nakedness.

2010-06-26T13:22:00.000+02:00

“Cloth us Lord with your power!” This is my prayer at the moment.

Have you ever had the guts to walk around in public absolutely stark naked? You'll be pleased to know that I haven't – not yet anyway, at least not since I was a little boy. I felt God give me a picture in which I was walking around naked whilst doing our our work at night. Now I know that's an awful thought, yet bear with me. However strange a picture that might be - it wouldn't actually be that weird to see here on the streets of San An; indeed, one is exposed to nakedness on a daily - or in our case nightly - basis.

I felt God was revealing – excuse the pun – something to me. Quite often I just get on and do the work at night without relying on God's power. I know I can do this work, and do it well, yet most of the time I feel comfortable. Am I willing to feel uncomfortable for God? Will I take some risks and dare to look silly? Will I keep safe this summer or get more dangerous? Am I willing to look like a fool?

Yes to all of those questions - but i need God's Spirit to give me the ability to move in power. I'm hungry for it.

Stepping out in Faith

2010-06-25T17:57:00.000+02:00

So last night (Monday 21st), I came across a guy on a crutch who had a cast on his foot. It was quite a big cast. I told him, in faith, that God could easily heal his problem, and his friend promised me that if God did heal him, he would 'dedicate' his life to God and become a priest. Suddenly the stakes were raised...I got them to sit down, his friends had front row seats, eager to see God do something, and I prayed.

I told him to get up and walk around....but if I'm being honest, I harboured doubt, unbelief and I lacked faith. He said it felt slightly better when he got up, and after offering some more prayer, he said that he had torn ligaments – as if God couldn't really heal that. I had to suppress my rage at the thought that God isn't able nor bigger than torn ligaments, but I said nothing. It wasn't his fault.

Every time I come across someone with a break, I will endeavour to pray and ask God to reveal his power. I know God is good and His kingdom can break in.

Come Lord.

God is doing some awesome work!

2010-06-24T20:19:00.000+02:00

God really is on the move.

Just not sure how to actually articulate what I feel is happening here in San Antonio. Just last week a girl on our team got chatting to a holiday maker who was extremely burdened and after sharing her testimony, this guy wanted to know Jesus himself, so she led him in a prayer and he said he felt 'light.' How awesome is that?

This all happened whilst we were praying that those out on the streets would get the chance to pray for someone for freedom and to help them break free from their problems. There seemed such a strong connection to what we were praying and what was happening out on the streets.

I really love it when these prayers seem to hit the bullseye so clearly and quickly.

When I came back into the Prayer room and heard the exciting news that someone had decided to accept what Jesus had done, I was totally overjoyed. I think Dan (from the American team) summed up what I was feeling the next day by saying just how much God used all of us in what happened and it wasn't just one person, and I hope that isn't taking anything away from the girl who stepped out in faith and obedience – as that was a key step. But feeling like you've played a part in that happening is so exciting!

What's New?

2010-06-01T13:36:00.002+02:00

Sorry I have not been blogging so much. With not having internet at home, and also not really being supposed to use it whilst at work (which is pretty much the usual wherever one works), it's a little harder to get on-line. But I am at at café down the road where I live and getting a chance to blog and share what is going on before I have to be somewhere.

Space Opening

Yes, I did go! You just have to attend THE party of the summer at pretty much THE best club on the Island. Neil (my house mate) and I went together and danced for about 11 hours! We did have a few breaks though, especially now I am getting on a bit. This year, Space decided to host the Opening party over 2 days; previously, it has always been on the first Sunday in June, but this year it was over 2 days. We went on Saturday, and we saw some awesome Djs. I loved Andy Cato (one half of Groove Armada), and Fatboy Slim was also really good. I was hoping he'd play some more of his own music, but alas, he played mainly the big choons that are getting smashed on the Island. I was hoping too that Space would have the outside arena, as Fatboy suits the larger, outside space - but sadly it was on the Sunday they had that – gutted! But it was still a great night. The sunset terrace was amazing, which is outside. Such huge basslines and meaty beats. Jonathan Ulysses was amazing in one of the smaller rooms too. Met some good people whilst chilling out, and also bumped into a few workers I know.

All in all a great start to the clubbing season. I'm not here in Ibiza to go clubbing, but I really think it's an important part of what we do, and getting to 'play' - and by that I mean dance and celebrate at some of these significant places - is a huge treat and chance to lift up God in prayer when out. Awesome!

Medieval Fair

2010-05-09T20:31:00.003+02:00

Went to the Medieval Fair last Sunday and had a really good time. It was held in Ibiza town and there were loads of food stalls everywhere, with stuff you could taste every 5 steps!!!! I've got to say, when a fair has food, it's the best kind of fair. I love days like that. The sun was out, and we slowly made our way up to the Cathedrale, stopping here and there to taste, sample and buy some interesting foods from past and present.

Had some Octopus, which is a Spanish specialty, and that tasted great. I had a Cafe Caleta, which is coffee boiled with conac and herbs which is lovely. Then had a sweet waffle and finished with a kebab! Was so so good.

Banksy Artwork

2010-05-08T14:45:00.003+02:00

This is what Angelic and the Prayer team did in our Chapel....it's awesome!

Pacha: Dancing and Eating!!! Love them both.

2010-05-04T14:32:00.000+02:00

Had such a great end to our Prayer team. Since they were such great people and really gave themselves to praying and helping us get ready on many levels, we treated them to an amazing night.

I booked us a table at The Pacha Restaurant and we rocked up for 10:30pm (that's how we roll) and sat down and enjoyed some amazing food. We ended up getting filmed for a Spanish tv channel and so the management gave us the wine for free - result! (I told a little white lie and said 'i usually eat in Pacha' - sorry God - couldn't help it - got caught up in the moment). I shared Beef Carpaccio with Mike to start off, then went for the Scallops for my main and finished it all off by sharing 4 different desserts. Best dessert was the Pistachio one. WOW!!!!

The genius bit about eating at The Pacha Restaurant is if you spend a certain amount you get entry into the club for free. In the summer, tickets to Pacha cost anywhere up to €75 for the best nights, so it pays to have a meal first. We might even do this again with some of the other teams.

By the time we finsihed our meal and had a coffee it was nearly 1am. We stopped off at the car for a quick red bull to give us some wings and then headed to the Club for a boogie for a few hours. It took us a few choons to get our groove on and shake off the food we'd just demolished, but soon we were all tearing up the dancefloor. Best bit was hearing a choon with the lyrics 'I'm gonna give you devotion' which we all loved.

I think the Prayer team were all SUCH legends. They fully deserved such a treat like this, and it was an honour and a pleasure to be a part of such a great week. Guys, please come again!!!!

New Housemate

2010-05-02T14:31:00.000+02:00

So my housemate arrived to my flat before i did, as my flight was delayed by that 'ash cloud'. I was hoping to straighten out and give the place a spruce up, but luckily Brian and Tracy gave it the once over and made sure his room was ready. The ash cloud meant i was 6 days late, but it wasn't all bad as i was able to get more time in Northern Ireland with my lovely lady Christine!

It's great to have Neil here, and i'm already enjoying sharing a house and having some good company. He's an outdoor legend, so i'm hoping he'll take us all rock climbing or kayaking. He's the kind of guy to trek across the Alps on his own for 2.5 weeks....legend!

It's his turn to cook tonight, so i'll let you know how that goes....this could be make or break!

Prayer Team 2010

2010-04-30T14:16:00.002+02:00

OH MY LIFE!!!!!

We've had the Prayer team out here with us until Saturday, and they were AMAZING! 5 of them are currently undertaking TRANSIT, a year-out with 24-7 Prayer, doing training and living in community and learning about the Bible and Christianity. The other person (Casey) has been to Ibiza on a prayer team 3 times before, so it's great to have her back again.

On Tuesday night we spent 6 hours in prayer and worship, having signed up to 24-7 'Prayer for Europe'. During the evening, we spent time worshipping God and lifting up Jesus and then we gathered together to pray for the nations of Europe that were on the list that week; Ukraine and Iceland respectively. I invited several people from the Anglican church and around 8 or so people turned up which was ace! They joined us for an hour in prayer for our Island of Ibiza and we were all very encouraged. This prayer for Ibiza will take place once a fortnight and I am well excited at the thought that every fortnight we'll be gathering in our Centre to pray for Ibiza.

On Wednesday we spent some time with Roy and Catherine Dixon on their land, praying over their vision to dedicate their land to God for His work. They bought the land many years ago with the hope to build on it, but the guy who sold it stitched them up and the planning permission they thought they had was a complete lie. We all went up to the land – which is beautiful – and prayed with them and asked God to bless them and the land and dedicate it to the Lord.

On Thursday we walked along the coast at Cala Comte (gorgeous beach) up to the watch tower there. We then clambered across the rocks and sat at the very tip and looked towards San Antonio. From there we prayed for San An. It was a special moment, and we read Isaiah 62 once again. This chapter of scripture has just been such a key part of this week, giving us an idea of God's heart for his world.

A Clubbing Adventure from 2008

2010-04-13T17:41:00.000+02:00

In the summer of 2008, one story stands out in particular. At the start of the summer I got to know a singer called Kym Mazelle a little. She was over in Ibiza promoting her new Gospel band and got in touch with 24-7 Ibiza. She used to come to Ibiza in the 80's and 90's, doing lots of live PA's and did a lot of wild partying, so her name pulled crowds easily.

I found out that she was singing at an event called 'Ibiza Full Moon Party', a party that was going to take place under the moon. Me and 2 friends were up for going along to support her and dance and pray. When we got there, we were gutted to find that her gig wasn't due to go ahead for whatever reason things didn't seem to be organised and instead of it being an outside gig, everyone was inside dancing to the DJs.

Kym was quite disheartened, and didn't want to sing without her band, and was quite worried about going back into the club. She preferred to be outside and for the people to come to her. But Michael persuaded her to go ahead and sing, and to not worry that her band wasn't with her; there was a DJ, some beats, and lots of people dancing, so why not take this opportunity to sing out and witness about her faith in God? She was very cautious and needed a lot of encouragement. Michael just seemed to have all the right words and encouraged her greatly. You need to know that although Kym's background is in gospel music, she got very deep into the whole Ibiza party scene – the darker side of it all - and got pretty sucked into it. After hitting rock bottom, she turned back to God who ignited her passion for people and for Ibiza but now her reasons for coming back to the Island had changed. Hence why she didn't want to go back 'into the clubs'. But she was persuaded, and so we said a quick prayer and in we went.

It turned out to be one of those nights that you never forget. Once in the club, which was really packed, we made our way over to the raised platform upon which the DJ was playing. Many people were dancing on this platform too, and so access to the DJ was very easy. The promoter didn't seem to know what was going on and seemed very incompetent, so Michael just took control and sorted out a microphone for Kym and plugged it into the DJs mixer. The DJ seemed not to notice, and so we carried on.

Kym then just sang out about her love for God and about his great love for us, and we were there alongside her dancing and praying. She sang over the music, and people were just mesmerised by her loud, big, soulful voice. It contained power, and she seemed to sing of her relationship with God that just made sense. At the end of it many people just came up to her and asked her about what she did and who she was. It felt such a great witness to God. It felt that on a night that creation and the Moon was worshipped, we actually got to worship the one who created it all.

I danced and praised God, and had the biggest grin on my face. Who says God cannot be worshipped in the most unlikely of places? God just cannot be contained in temples built by human hands and his presence is everywhere, even in a packed, sweaty club full of people dancing to the beats.

Awesome!

Adventures in Clubland

2010-04-11T17:33:00.001+02:00

I love clubbing, and as you can imagine, living and working in Ibiza means lots of opportunities to see the best DJs play the best clubs. The choice is endless, whether it's Sunday afternoon clubbing out on the terrace or some uplifting trance at Amnesia. We often have some cool stories of our clubbing adventures and i've recently sent one to my friend Jon Oliver who I worked with in Bournemouth when he was the Club Chaplain. We went to a club called 'Slinky' on Friday nights and got to know clubbers and as we chilled out struck up some conversations with people.

Jon has recently written a book called 'Night Vision' and also blogs about clubbing too. He ran some highly successful 'Church for the Night' events in Bournemouth too - that still go on - opening an Anglican Church in the heart of the town during some very unusual hours of the night - roughly 11pm till 6am. This meant many clubbers stumbled in after their night out and suddenly had a desire to talk about their life, write down a prayer or just sit in silence. This event still goes on and is run by Michael French and his team. Michael spent a summer with us in 2008 and he's top guy.

Visit to the UK

2010-04-10T16:19:00.003+02:00

I'm heading back to England tonight to see my family and to celebrate my 31st birthday with my twin sister Nicole. Christine will join me up in Lincoln too and will meet my family and help to celebrate. I'm of course really excited to get home and see friends and family and have a break before the start of another busy and full-on summer. Time for a rest and to put my feet up.

Looking forward to going over to visit Christine in Belfast as well. We're hoping to do some fun things together (mostly eat tray-bakes) before I catch a flight back out here on the 20th April.

It'll then be a matter of days before Neil comes to work and live here - and he'll be moving into my apartment. The flat's pretty much ready for him to move into. I wish him all the best as he, alongside Claire and Christine, all prepare to move out here for nearly 6 months to work and help 24-7 Ibiza.

Prayer for Europe

2010-04-09T13:55:00.000+02:00

Have you seen the move to pray for Europe by 24-7 Prayer? It looks like that the focus is back on this awesome continent with fresh vigour and us guys in Spain want to get involved.

We've got our Prayer team here in the last week of April and we're hoping to kick off the summer with some focused prayer. It'll be great having a team of up-for-it volunteers helping and aiding us in praying.

We'll be praying for San Antonio - for all the people that we know who live and work in this great place; for God to visit people and reveal himself; for God's power to be shown; for strength and courage for all of us living and working out here. We'll also be praying for the nation of Spain too.

We've signed up for a slot on Tuesday 27th. Sign up here If you've got the heart and the time to help us pray, then do get involved and contact one of us.

Living Beautifully

2010-04-05T16:18:00.000+02:00

I love this phrase so much.

I think it was Mother Teresa who used this phrase - and i for one think she did live such a beautiful life. She cared for the broken, the dying, the hurting, the forgotten, those with disease that meant they were ignored, the rejected. She did this for no fame, no money - nor did she want position or title. Now that's beautiful.

Jesus Christ also lived beautifully too. In fact, he did the ultimate, he gave up his life for humankind - the most beautiful and precious act a person can do for someone. He dies in our place, so that we might know God the Father. He took upon himself all our sin and shame and guilt so that we might go free. WOW!

So what does it mean to live beautifully?

A beautiful life is one that is poured out for others in service to them - not wanting to get something out of it.
It's a life that looks to the inner beauty of a person's heart and not the outward beauty that is so often praised in our society today.
A beautiful life is generous with resources for those that are overlooked and uncared for.

How can i live beautifully this summer here in Ibiza? That's a question that is on my mind right now. I desire Christ to cloth me with his beauty this summer - that's a good place to start. To be clothed with his kindness, his compassion, his justice, his forgiveness. I really don't think i can do it otherwise, or find it from anywhere else.

Sunshine and Beaches

2010-04-04T21:32:00.003+02:00

Had one of those moments today when i was driving down to Ses Salines (the salt flats) to go for a walk along the beach and whilst i was driving down there with the choons pumping out the car, i was like....'WOW, i'm living in THE most amazing place and serving THE most amazing God.' I was taking in the lovely scenery and the gorgeous sun (which has been shining for the last week!).

Do you ever have those moments? I love them. Long may they continue.

The trickle of tourists is beginning too, with many bars and places now open and soon there'll be masses of people. I'm actually looking forward to the Island getting busier and life returning. I just hope that amid all the work and people i get to walk along a beach and remember what life is all about...

When I Survey the Wondorous Cross

2010-04-03T22:15:00.002+02:00

Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

WOW!

An Empty Prayer Wall

2010-04-01T12:30:00.005+02:00

Our Prayer Wall: EMPTY!

But think of this: In a matter of weeks, we'll have our first few prayers up there, written by random strangers, tourists and workers alike. By October of this year the Wall will be full of prayer requests and there'll be no room for us to put any more prayers up. What a great problem to have? We've got the Prayer team arriving in about 3 weeks and i hope that this wall gets covered in prayers and words that scripture that lays a really strong foundation for the summer ahead.

We've already had some prayers via our new website, but we won't be putting them up here as they're slightly more private. We will also continue to enable people to pop their prayers in bottles in the prayer room so that no one else can read their private message to God.

Swimming in March? Don't!!!!

2010-03-31T15:21:00.000+02:00

This was far too cold! I'm waiting till May...at least.

Soda Bread!

2010-03-31T10:39:00.005+02:00

I managed it - at last! For so long i couldn't get hold of any buttermilk here in Ibiza (which apparently you can make yourself), and that was the key ingredient that hindered me trying this loaf. But the local supermarket now stocks some. Result!

Soda bread is a typical Irish bread, with many various forms. In Northern Ireland, it is usually made with wholemeal flour and takes the name 'Wheaten Bread', which is chuffin' delicious with butter and jam. Because Bicarbonate of soda is used for leavening instead of yeast, this is a real quick bread to make and needs no proving. You gotta try it - takes about 10 mins to make and about half an hour to cook. Having got the taste for the real thing when in Northern Ireland in 2008, i'm glad i've finally made some, and with my girlfriend being Irish, i have plenty of reason to cook this more often.

By the way, check out my friend Phil Evan's cool blog called Creativitiy with food. He's living and working out in Macedonia and doing some 24-7 Prayer stuff there. I got some inpiration from his website when i cooked a meal on Saturday using Pork Belly - a cut of Pork that i've not used before. I cooked it with fennel and got the crackling just right. The meat is so tender and tastes great! I got it from the market in Ibiza town, which i love looking round and taking in all the sights and smells, a real experience.

The Bible:Napoleon Dynamite Version

2010-03-30T22:10:00.000+02:00

My friends did this whilst in Bible College - really profound stuff

Mary hasn't done flippin' anything today!
You're just jealous 'cos i've been chatting to Jesus ALL DAY!
(Martha to Jesus in Luke 10:38-42)

In the beginning, God did whatever the hell he felt like doing GOSH...and he saw all that he had made, and it was sweet.

Disciples only like Messiahs with great skills...walking on water skills, feeding 5,000 skills, raising people from the dead skills.

Daniel would chat to God for like 2 hours everyday, so i guess you could say things were getting pretty serious.

King Saul: 'Hey David, what experience do you have that qualifies you for standing agaisnt Goliath?'
David: 'I told you! I spent last summer with my uncle in Alaska hunting Wolverines.'
KS: 'Did you kill any?'
David: Yes, like 50 of 'em! They kept trying to attack my sheep, what the heck would you do in that situation?'

Jesus sends out the 72 (Luke 10) 'No more flying solo. From now on we use the buddy system, you need someone watching your back at ALL TIMES.'

Goliath: 'Do you think anyone wants a roundhouse kick to the face whilst i'm wearing these bad boys?'

One of those blogs you'll hate me for - sorry!

2010-03-29T15:10:00.005+02:00

I know you're gonna hate me for blogging like this, but it'd be rude not to. This blog covers all the bases don't you know. Question: have you ever seen a yacht with a group of people on it, all of them seemingly having the best time of their lives and jealously thought 'I wish that was me?' (by the way, they are in fact having the best time – I can prove it).

I've often coveted (ever so slightly) those people on their yachts and sailing boats here in Ibiza, and yesterday was a chance to sample the high life as I got invited out on one of Brian and Tracy's friend's sailing boats. Martin – the guy who owns the boat - is such a generous guy, and really treated us all to an amazing day. We all took goes steering the boat as we sailed a little out to sea until Brian did some interesting skippering of the boat and took us in a whole new direction...but it was time to get to a little inlet and anchor down to have lunch anyway. We popped open the wine, had some bacon butties with English cheddar cheese and enjoyed the warm weather on deck listening to some music. It's moments like that you you think 'am I really here?' We cheered the Heasley's for having been in Ibiza 5 whole years as a family. Absolute awesome effort guys – pleasure to enjoy the moments with you.

The questions on our lips were: do we go swimming? Will it be warm enough? The lads got in, and I couldn't let them out-do me, so I got involved with Ellis, Dan, and Matthew and had a dip - albeit an ABSOLUTELY freezing one! I went with the 'dive-straight-in' approach, preferring that to the lad's 'slowly-slowly-in' technique. But it was a shock to the system to say the least. I swam one circuit of the boat before getting straight back out. March – too cold to go swimming in Ibiza!

When you cap off a day like that with a curry, you know it's been one of 'em days! What a wkd day - good times!

God's Power is just awesome!

2010-03-26T18:40:00.003+01:00

How often do you read the stories found in the Bible - in the Gospels and in Acts and are blown away at how God's power totally transformed people's lives? I mean, when I read some of what Jesus or the disciples did I am flabbergasted at just the way God's Kingdom really did break in and arrive, with such power. Jesus never just used persuasive words, but always gave a demonstration of His father's power.

Check this passage of Scripture found in 1 Corinthians 2:1-5

"When I came to you, brothers, I did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power."

The last few days we've had some amazing times of prayer. We're basically calling on God to pour out his power here in Ibiza. Today I prayed for God to really demonstrate his power through us. I'm hungry to see miracles and healings take place out on the streets and have insights into people's lives that I could not have other than God's Spirit revealing it.

Our message this summer isn't just about 'Repentance'. Yes, that's important – the need to be in right standing before God. But our message this summer will be coupled with powerful actions too. So many times I've been having great chats to some random person and it just ends up with me not knowing where to take the conversation. I really hope that this summer I rely on God's amazing power and just get praying for it for people.

Bring it on!

Taking the leap of faith

2010-03-25T13:06:00.000+01:00

With the run up to the summer season beginning, I am thinking alot about all the people who'll be coming out here to serve with us on teams for 2 weeks. I am also thinking about the people who are planning on moving here for anywhere up to six months. What an incredible step of faith they're all having to make.

I know that some have given their notice in to their bosses and some are applying for careers breaks too; others are thinking of using their savings to invest in coming here and still others are travelling incredibly long distances and taking huge amounts of time away from loved ones.

I just am thrilled that the sense of adventure is alive and kicking in people's hearts! People are still being caught up in the wild life of following and trusting in God, no matter what, and it's such a blessing to have these people considering working out here with us. I can't wait!

Ultimately, when we give something up for God and for his Kingdom, we will get it back in some other way. It's like what Maximus said in the film 'Gladiator': 'what we do in this life, echoes in eternity.' Love that quote! Jesus said that whomsoever has 'left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother of children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.' (Matthew 19:29). What payback that is! Whatever we give up for God, we will get back 100 times more in eternity. Now that's a good return on your investment! Are we willing to have faith in God that he will honour our step of faith?

Most of the time our investment and sacrifice just does not compare to that of what God did by sending his only Son because he loved the world so much. God is our inspiration and the ultimate giver.

Inspired by Banksy

2010-03-23T13:39:00.004+01:00

Love this Banksy image. I saw this when in London with Christine and she bought me a copy of this image. It reminds me of the people that we meet and help in the summer here in San Antonio. Most of those we help are far worse, covered in sick and sometimes worse. Many wonder in disbelief as to why we help total srangers, but it's because we believe them to be incredibly special and most of all created in God's own image; they're not just a statistic or a number.

When someone says 'just leave them, it's their own fault they got into this mess', i ofter answer: 'if this was your son or daughter, would you like me to be helping them?'

Getting ready for Summer '10

2010-03-23T13:37:00.001+01:00

I can't quite believe summer is just around the corner! Is it nearly April already? Summer vibes are deffo in the air!

We're at that time of year of getting the Centre ready and looking new, which we've been doing for some weeks already. We've got new ideas and trying to be creative. We've given the Centre a new lick of white paint, and now have a blank canvas to work from. I'm currently painting the outside of it.

I'm just working on putting a little talk together on prayer at the mo for when the 2 week teams are here. Still loving praying...which is a bonus as it's a major part of what we do. Am reading Paul Cho's book on 'Prayer: Key to Revival'. It's pretty decent, with solid teaching. When it was written in 1983 or so, this guy was leading the worlds largest Church in S.Korea. It had about 3-400,000! Pretty huge number of people! Just saw on Wiki that it now numbers 830,000 and has several services each Sunday to accommodate them all.

His book includes some teaching on fasting too, which i must say that i'm not disciplined in whatsoever, yet have a desire to include this discipline in my prayer life. I've got some things on my heart that i'd love to see God bring breakthrough, especially for our work this summer. I feel like i need to get prepared and ready for everything that God has in store for me and for us here in Ibiza!

Our new website

2010-03-22T13:31:00.002+01:00

So check out our updated website...

We're hoping to really keep it that way - updated with stories and blogs and pictures.

Check out www.24-7ibiza.com

My new apartment

2010-03-04T14:48:00.002+01:00

Check out the pics of my new place. It's pretty new and in lovely condition. Am so thankful for God's provision!

'Jesus Loves Ibiza' Message Bibles

2010-03-03T15:29:00.003+01:00

Over the past few months we've been increasingly wanting to design a cover for a small New Testament Message version of the Bible. I'm not sure of the statistics, but each and every summer, we give away at least 200-300 Bibles, to workers, holiday makers and prostitutes alike.

The xxxChurch guys designed the front cover above and we love it, and it was so popular with many of the Ibizan workers. So we're pursuing the idea to get some 'Jesus Loves Ibiza' Bibles, and so far we have £3000 that has been given by various Churches ad charities to make this idea a reality. God is really answering our prayers!

Would you like to help? Maybe you'd love to donate some money to make this happen? Or maybe you are a budding designer and can put together the art and graphics for a funky cover design? If so, do get in touch with me.

YWAM

2010-02-27T20:20:00.002+01:00

The YWAM ship 'Next Wave' is anchored just outside Ibiza Town for a few weeks and on Friday just gone we had 6 eager volunteers helping us to paint the Centre. What could have taken Tracy, Brian and myself a week, we did in one day. And 2 coats too. How awesome are young, up for it volunteers? Everyone needs them!

Apart from having loads of friends who have done a YWAM Discipleship course (and everyone seems to have loved it), I don't know much about YWAM. It's been good to meet some of the course members and leaders and to actually get to know what the ship's function exactly is, why they are in fact on the ship. It seems that the ship is a floating base that trains missionaries up and sails around the South Mediterranean countries (Italy, Greece, Spain etc) placing the trained up disciples in new cities to get on and do it.

YWAM are keen to establish something more permanent here on the Island and so it's exciting to know of their heart for Southern Europe and for some, Spain in particular. Who knows what God is up to. I wonder if something will develop over the coming months?

I did take some photos, but my battery died so i'll upload them when i get them sent to me. The Centre is now nearly done, and just needs some creative people to let loose on the place and I think it'll look amazing.

Pond Jumping

2010-02-24T14:12:00.005+01:00

Top Photo: Three of us sizing up the challenge. We had to take it in turns to jump across the pond without falling in and the last person to give in was the loser.

Middle Photo: Tim's good effort, although out of the three of us, he got the wettest, and i'm sure this jump resulted in a heavy soaking.

Bottom Photo: The finished pond. No other possible places to jump across.

Winner: Tim, on account of not giving up and getting the wettest and jumping on ice the size of cubes! So funny!

Adventures in the Lakes

2010-02-21T23:18:00.006+01:00

Me and three friends had such a good time walking in the Lake District last week, which is why i've not been blogging recently. We drove up on Tuesday night and stopped in Sheffield at a friends house before making our way to Buttermere in the North West district the next morning. We had some great views of Lakes Buttermere and Crummock respectively and you could see the mountains in the reflection of the water....awesome! We stayed at the YHA in Buttermere.

Our first day of walking began with a gentle walk as we started late in the day and didn't want to be caught out in the dark. We saw the highest waterfall in England and had some fun wetting each other. It became clear early on that all of us, with the exception of the wise and discerning Jon, would turn into teenage boys and end up playing pranks and trying to out do each other at every turn. But you'll be pleased to hear that as well as having lots of fun and banter, we also spent time talking about some of the own adventures that we're on in our own lives.

Day 2 was an early start to get some serious walking/scrambling in. At one point we walked through a valley with mountains all around us and i was thinking how we'd actually get over the huge peaks before us, but we found a way up and over. We managed to traverse through the peaks and lift ourselves over and enjoy some time wasting with some stupid pond jumping and getting very wet. That evening we played poker after an amazing pub meal - like, the best food i've had for ages. Why is it that when i'm in a quiet English pub I just have to have some English ale? Love it!

We climbed Great Gable on our last day (899 meters) and finished off in the pub in Wasdale. The views were amazing and we got a chance to pray together too. This was the toughest of all our climbs, with the highlight being the views and the pride in getting to the top. Getting down was, as you can imagine, far quicker, especially when we slid down some extremely steep parts on our backs, but then wasted time river jumping onto frozen snow.

The Lake District is an awesome place with breathtaking scenery. I hope to go back there really soon. Loved every minute!

Getting ready for Summer '10

2010-02-05T13:38:00.000+01:00

We did some more prayer walking today. The winter affords the time and the space to walk around the West end and really pray for the area surrounding our Centre, with all the bars and the clubs. We're just really gearing up for this coming summer, and i can honestly say that compared to last winter, we're in a totally differnet position. Alot of that has to do with the fact that we're now not living up on a hill on a farm and trying to grow veg. We're back in San An, and it feels so right.

We're really praying for God's blessing on the West end and that when all the tourists and workers come, we'll see a fresh openess and desire for God amongst them. We also spend time praying for all the owners of the bars and clubs too, that God would bless their businesses and that they'd come to know God's goodness too.

The more we pray now, the better the summer will be. The more we invest now, the greater the work will be. The more we give to God now, the more we'll get back. Bring on Ibiza Summer '10!

Give me my daily bread.

2010-02-04T11:14:00.004+01:00

Man, i am SOOO thankful for being able to do what i do. During our team meeting this morning we were all just reminding ourselves how blessed we are to be doing what we do. Without people's generosity and God's thorough constant provision, we would struggle to do this work here on the Island.

I'm so thankful for all the people who give each month, not only to me but also to the work too. We talked about how, after seeing God come through time and time again on numerous occasions, your 'faith muscle' grows. The next time that something big comes up and you think, 'how will i ever pay for that?', you remember how God has always been so faithful in the past and your faith is that much stronger in God's faithfulness.

I'm here, doing this work, because God is so faithful, yesterday, today and forever. I just want to take this opportunity to say a massive 'Thanks' to anyone who has ever given or supported me and the work here. I also want to throw this out....are you planning on coming on a team to Ibiza this summer, or thinking of moving here for longer? Are you worried about finances or some other obstacle? If so, i just want to encourage you to trust God; he'll provide all your needs, according to his glorious riches in Christ.

Read this from Proverbs 30 last week. Pretty good i think:

⁷ "Two things I ask of you, O LORD;
do not refuse me before I die:

⁸ Keep falsehood and lies far from me;
give me neither poverty nor riches,
but give me only my daily bread.

⁹ Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you
and say, 'Who is the LORD ?'
Or I may become poor and steal,
and so dishonor the name of my God.

My New Home!

2010-02-01T17:13:00.005+01:00

I'm in!

There are boxes everywhere, but slowly and surely i'm making my way through them. Moving provides one of those rare opportunities to get rid of loads of stuff that have been collecting dust and doing nothing. And i need to throw away loads of stuff that has been sitting around for ages and hasn't been eaten. There's probably a reason why.

Tracy very kindly went through the huge inventory that i was given and she checked that list against all the stuff in the flat. There's some broken things here and there, and a few missing items, but apart from that it's a well nice pad. There are 2 irons as well...as if! Those can do one if you ask me.

We also prayed for the apartment, that it'd be a place of life and hospitality and full of God's presence. Quality!

Moving into my Apartment

2010-01-31T22:36:00.005+01:00

Feb! Feb! Feb!

Is it just me or has January just taken forever to end? I've been wanting it to be February for a number of reasons, with the main one being that I move into my new place tomorrow morning. I've been looking forward to this moment for weeks. Most of my stuff is still in boxes, and i reckon in just 2 car loads i can move all my stuff. All that i need to do is give the place a clean and that's that.

I'm going to enjoy being a little bit more in the mix of the San An bay and also closer to The Heasley's too. The flat is a good size for only one person, and will be comfortable come the summer when someone else lives with me. I'll get some photos on here really soon to give you all an idea of the layout. It's got a really lovely community area with a swimming pool and surrounding garden which looks proper mint!

The other reason i'm looking forward to February is that my girlfriend Christine comes next Saturday for a visit - and i can't wait!

Baptisms at the beach

2010-01-30T19:12:00.004+01:00

I got the honour of helping to baptise 2 guys at the beach today. They are both connected to the Anglican Church and both wanted to publicly confess their faith in Jesus and their committment to him. I was asked to help baptise them on Thursday night, at i jumped at the chance. I was just blown away at how special it was to be involved, and at how cold the sea chuffing was, but at least it was sunny and warm.

I swotted up on some of the scripture passages that relate baptism to Christ's death and resurrection. It was amazing to be reminded about why Christians do this. We are symbolically buried with Christ into his death, in order that we may rise to live a new life. But it's more than just something that is symbolic; the Spirit of God does his awesome work within us - his power is at work in our hearts. Romans 8:11 says, 'and if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you.' That verse was knocking about in my head all day. Pretty mind blowing stuff if you ask me.

I always end up wanting to baptised again when i'm involved in any baptism. I'd love us to see more baptisms on the Island and hope to see some this summer. Bring it on!

God Words from Isaiah

2010-01-27T12:33:00.002+01:00

Amazing words from Isaiah 62 found in the Old Testament:

¹ For Zion's sake I will not keep silent,
for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet,
till her righteousness shines out like the dawn,
her salvation like a blazing torch.

² The nations will see your righteousness,
and all kings your glory;
you will be called by a new name
that the mouth of the LORD will bestow.

I feel that God has given us these words for Ibiza. 2 of us felt God place this chapter on our hearts after we all read through Isaiah a few weeks ago. I for one get really excited when reading this chapter and replacing the words of Zion with Ibiza. I just have such a desire to see Ibiza blaze with God's amazing salvation and that her righteaousness shine like the dawn. When you think of Ibiza you don't really think it's the most righteous place, but God can redeem anyone, anything and even whole nations. How cool is that?!

I am waiting and I am watching. I will not keep silent and keep praying and asking God to do this: to establish Ibiza and make her the praise of the whole earth! Come on!

I still believe in kindness

2010-01-22T18:04:00.003+01:00

Whilst living at Bob and Clare's, I got the privlege of sharing with a guy called Glen who was also lodging there. He was awaiting the Spanish coursts giving his passport back after being unfairly imprisioned, and now he's home after being on the Island for 18 months solidly. I enjoyed his company and it was great seeing him respond to the love and the kindness of the Anglican Church. I think they really made a lasting impact upon his life.

I've come to realise too just how kind Bob and Clare are to many people on the Island and just what an impact they've made on the people living here. It reminds me just what a difference being kind has on people's lives. And it's not about just giving money either. That's sometimes easier...like giving to a poor guy on the street or donating to a larger global issue - that doesn't take much effort. But it's being generous with your time, with your gifts, with your own skills too. That's what makes a difference.

New Apartment

2010-01-20T13:47:00.003+01:00

Good news at the mo: I've found an apartment, and it's a lovely, pretty new, 2-bed place. It's very close to The Heasley's place, which is great, and about 5 mins to the sea. I can't wait to make it my home and finally unpack boxes and feel like i have space.

It's been great to live at Bob and Claire's place for over 2 months - they've been so kind to me. Yet the whole time i've been there i've had an unsettled feeling, knowing it's not my own place and i can't really unpack all of my stuff and spread out. I''ve felt in a kind of 'in-between' stage for some time now. It was actually quite wierd coming back to Ibiza Christmas; I really was aware just how much i missed my friends and how much i miss living with other people. I think not having my own place did not help, and now that i finally have somewhere, i think i'll feel much more settled.

Spanish learning going 'muy bien!'

2010-01-20T12:31:00.004+01:00

Yesterday i made progress with my Spanish by doing my homework in the bar at The Marino - the hotel that 24-7 Ibiza use for summer teams. IT is run by such a friendly and welcoming family, and it seems everyone chips in, right down to the cooking and cleaning.

I am slowly getting to know the people that work behind the bar, and it seems to be frequented by many locals, whom i'm also getting to know. It seems to be working; people realise that i'm learning Spanish and so they chip in with help, suggestions, some chit-chat, you know the score.

Am going down there again today to talk some Spanish with a guy who works there whose happy to do a kind of language exchange. I'll let you know how it goes.

Apartment Hunting

2009-12-12T22:36:00.002+01:00

Just to keep you updated on the adventure that is finding a home to live in.

Got an apartment in mind in San Antonio itself, very close to Eroski and near the Sunset strip (for those of you who know San An). I never thought that i'd live right in San An itself, but actually, as i'll be on my own i'd really appreciate the closeness to food shops, coffee shops and the hustle and bustle of life going on around you. It's on 6th floor too, and has a cool balcony with views of sunset and you do feel disconnected being high up, yet it's well easy to pop down and get amongst it in seconds. But she (the owner) has just put price up to €550 (any danger?), and i'm only going to go to €500.

Seen another place around the bay, and it's in a lovely area, pretty quiet with access to a pool and lovely roof terrace, but the downside is the kitchen. It's pretty pokey and extremly small, with no oven, and the living room has only a coffee table, and not much room for a table, esp one that can fit 4-8 people around. Hospitality is important for me, so not sure if this is the right place.

I really want a 2 bed place, so come the summer i can have someone, a volunteer for instance, come to live with me. That'll provide not only some company but some income too. This will mean more money going out during the first part of the year, but less come the summer.

Am back in the UK this Thursday, so need to make some decisions. I'd value your prayers for me at this important time.

Update

2009-11-30T14:27:00.003+01:00

Today we are planning; dreaming; thinking; praying for the work of 24-7 Ibiza.

'If we always do what we've always done, we'll always have what we always had.' That's the quote currently knocking about in all of our heads.

We want to 'Fully' proclaim the Gospel of Jesus, and figuring out new ways to do this.

Another day to check what apartments are out there and to go looking at a few.

Am currently listening lots to Switchfoot and Jars of Clay.

Wished i was at the final ever Delirious? gig too. That would have been immense!

Flat Hunting

2009-11-25T12:55:00.003+01:00

So, just bringing you up to speed with what i'm doing at the moment. I'm still living at the Anglican House in the mean time, until i find somewhere else more suitable. I need to find somewhere for the beginning of January.

Saw four different places yesterday that were to rent, all around the Bay in San Antonio. A mixture of bedsits and apartments. Am hoping for a 2 bed flat, close to the Heasleys, and not too far away from the hustle and bustle of San Antonio. Am learning new words in spanish too, as many of the people i ring can't speak English, so i'm just making it up as i go...which tends to make for some awkward moments. All good though.

Cinematic Orchestra

2009-11-25T12:31:00.003+01:00

When i was in LDN a few weeks ago, a friend of mine treated me to a ticket to see the mighty Cinematic Orchestra and it was such a great gig. I wasn't dissapointed. I think there's about 7 or so members, and they are so musically talented like you've never heard or seen. They had an orchestra there too, which, as you might not have guessed, are not part of the main group - it's just their name.

Here's a link on Youtube to see one of there songs 'All that you give'. It's an awesome song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0F1RVXfiWEE

They finished with thier amazing song 'All things to all men'. UK rapper Roots Manuva sings on it and he was the special guest that night! Flipping awesome!

Elderly Prayers

2009-11-16T22:54:00.004+01:00

I've been wondering recently at why it seems, in my opinion, that all the really amazing prayer warriors are the elderly? How many times have you heard it said...'Old people are amazing at praying, really faithful. They have all the time in the world to pray, so let's get them on board.'

I've heard that many times, and sad to say that i've used that line myself too during the run up to some important work or event.

But i wonder what we can learn from the older, more wiser generation of prayer warriors? What drives them? What motivates them? Does prayer become easier as you get older? Are they answered quicker?

I just sense the call to prayer even deeper...I think i'd like to 'get on it' in prayer NOW, rather than when i'm 70!

Home

2009-11-14T22:35:00.001+01:00

Tonight i will be living in my new, temporary 'home', just on the outskirts of San Antonio. I will be living in the downstairs annex of the Anglican Vicarage with a couple called Bob and Clare. They run the English speaking Church in Ibiza.

I finished all my packing today about 4pm and moved my stuff to my new abode. There are 2 bedrooms, a large living room, a small kitchen and a bathroom. It's just right and what i need.

It's strange being somewhere new, that isn't quite 'home' yet. I will be here until the first week of January, giving me both time to look for a place to live, and giving me time to save some money towards deposits and rent etc. I am hoping to obtain either an apartment or a studio flat somewhere around the bay in San Antonio. I really don't want to be so isolated as before, and much closer to the hustle and bustle that is San An.

I've been thinking alot about 'home' recently - not my home back in the UK (as i don't have one) but just the idea of having a place to call 'home'. Having responded to God's call to serve Him, i am learning to trust in God to provide for me the place that He wants me to live in.

My thoughts are that when it comes to following and serving God, you must learn to make your 'home' in God. This was a thought i had during the summer whilst living in community, but one that i've not explored deeper enough. Yet i sense God speaking to me about this whilst in this transition period. I think that one must know that ultimately, our home is in God and with God, and that He provides and gives us a place to live for a time that He sets. You see, when you know that your home is in God and with Him, the call to move becomes easier; you don't worry about owning somewhere; you learn to trust God when He asks you to move.

Ah, these are just thoughts as i begin a fresh part of this adventure.

It is exciting though.

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Who will answer the Call to prayer?

2009-11-02T12:54:00.003+01:00

Am hearing the Call to prayer ring in my ears...like I've never heard before. But it's a call to be part of an army; a military call. At least that is what i am hearing.

Your country DOES need you...and it needs you to pray like you've never prayed before!

I read this quote about the definition of the task of priestly intercession (from The Prophetic Intercessor by James W. Goll) and it's based from Isaiah 62:6-7

"An intercessor is one who reminds the Lord of promises and appointments not yet fulfilled."

"On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have appointed watchmen; all day and all night they will never keep silent. You who remind the Lord, take no rest for yourselves; and give Him no rest until He establishes and makes Jerusalem praise in the earth."

Isn't that amazing? We're to be God's secretary, reminding God to fulfil His Word to us. Wow! Are you hearing His call to prayer? For your country or for another country?

2009-10-30T16:41:00.003+01:00

So i thought i'd take a picture of my new car! Brian and Tracy have given it to me and it's such a blessing.

Firstly, it's an Audi!

Secondly, it's pretty nippy...hence the expensive insurance! ouch!

Thirdly, it's Red!

But most of all it's a pair of Wheels for me to get around the Island, and that's great. I just need to buy a new battery now and get it taxed and i'm all sorted! Am just so amazed at God's awesome provision and His perfect timing too. He knows my needs exactly, and just last week i was praying that God would provide the finance that i need and over the past week i've seen God provide through some friends in a remarkable way. I just think God is awesome and i'm so thankful to Him for the way in which He provides.

My friend Helen leaves!

2009-10-27T13:51:00.005+01:00

So it's with real sadness that i said goodbye to my friend Helen, who left on Sunday to make her journey back home to Germany. She's been serving God and 24-7 Ibiza for nearly 3 years, and she's just made such an impact upon this place. She's back safe and sound - how the car got her home, i'm not sure. Some prayer and some good mechanics maybe?

She packed her car up on Sunday, and i helped her, but as we all know, Helen is great at organising and packing, and squeezed all her stuff into the glovebox of her Peugeot. I was amazed that she managed to fit all her bags and shoes and nail painting thingys in her car...

I'm now on my own in Spanish and can't turn to Helen for assistance. All the Moroccan guys at Spanish are gutted that she's not around either ;) "Donde es Helen?" "Donde?"

Helen is a pilgrim, someone wanting to follow God and His call, and i wish her all the best as she seeks to live a life for God in Germany. I hope she comes back to visit and come clubbing, maybe to We Love...

E-mail update!

2009-10-20T17:19:00.002+02:00

If anyone would like to receive my news via e-mail then do let me have your e-mail address and I'll add you to my list of lovely people. I usually try to send out news every couple of months or so. It includes stories and current things I'm facing plus some helpful prayer pointers!

Yo hablo espanyol!

2009-10-15T01:11:00.003+02:00

Had my first Spanish lesson last night since June and boy, was it hard. My new teacher speaks way too fast, and i just couldn't keep up with her. I'm now in Level Two, and i can definitely sense the increase in difficulty. Everyone around me is speaking really good Spanish and I'm sat there just scratching my head.

But I've not giving up one little bit. I'm gonna stick it out and get on top of it all. I got asked to spell the word Portugese in Spanish - i was like, i can't even spell it in English let alone Spanish. Good times! This winter i want to really get on top of speaking Spanish!

PRAY PRAY PRAY

2009-10-13T17:44:00.003+02:00

About a month ago, Brian (our 24-7 Ibiza leader) got stopped by the police in our 24-7 Ibiza van one night and was accused of being an illegal taxi. This was not good, as for one, we're so not a taxi service, even though we do take back drunks to their hotel, and two, it's a €6000 fine.

Jog on!

Brian and Tracy have been going to the Spanish authorities and also the British consulate, but have been met with no success. It looks like we (24-7 Ibiza) will have to pay this fine.

I'm not having that! This is just not acceptable. It's not fair, as we're not a taxi service that takes money - it's a free service - everyone knows this. We do it because we're being kind and offering a service that no one else does. It's a massive blow to everything we do and all that we stand for. We need to sort this as if we pay, we're owning up to being illegal and it could jeopardise our future work.

So - I'm asking if you could stand with us and pray about this pressing issue. We need a breakthrough, and we need the authorities to do a 180 degree about turn. This can only be done if we pray, pray and pray. Thanks.

Look how they shine...

2009-10-12T02:25:00.004+02:00

WOW! I had to blog right away before going to sleep.

You know i live on a farm in Ibiza that's in the middle of nowhere, right? Well, before I hit the sack tonight, i thought I'd quickly pop up onto the roof to check out the night sky as it looked like it was going to be a clear sky.

Oh. My. Life!

I was not disappointed. I've never seen so many stars on display and to top it off, i saw 2 of the longest and most vivid shooting stars that I've ever seen! They were like rockets in the night sky. When I see the heavens and the stars twinkling, it's hard not to be in awe and wonder at creation, but more than that, at the Creator behind the amazing spectacle before my eyes. I don't stop at thinking how amazing the stars are; I keep going and think how amazing is God who created all that I see. The stars speak of something deeper...

Check out how Psalm 19 begins - how cool. (This is C.S. Lewis' favourite Psalm in the Bible btw).

'The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.
There is no speech of language
where their voice is not heard.
Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.'
Psalm 19:1-4

My conclusion tonight: God is awesome and most worthy to be praised!

Prayer Muscles

2009-10-11T19:00:00.003+02:00

I want to grow bigger muscles. Spiritual muscles that is, as i have pretty decent guns already, as you must have already noticed ;-)

I was at the 24-7 conference recently, and this guy talked about us growing bigger muscles in certain areas of our lives. A verse that someone read out that instantly struck a chord with me is in Psalm 18:34 'He trains my hands for battle, my arms can bend a bow of bronze.' I really do want to enter into a new season of being trained in prayer, to do battle, to be stronger and fiercer and surer.

Alot of what i do for my work involves praying, so it seems right to learn and develop and grow in this very area. I'm quite excited.

Anthems!

2009-10-09T12:19:00.004+02:00

These three are just a couple of the choons that you could hear in most clubs and bars this summer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gd3KxitATVo
This is the MGMT 'Kids' remix by Ingrosso that every DJ smashed this summer and when it breaks down will put the biggest smile on your face! It also reminds me of a guy who lived with us called James, as he's an Indie-head.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JZyChjUARE
This choon builds and builds and builds until it destroys you in the breakdown - loads of amazing energy: Sunset Terrace at Space - need i say more? It's called On:Off and it's by Cirez D, otherwise known as Eric Prydz.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14Wwx_9vUL8
This reminds me of the dirty electro we heard in the backroom of Judgement Sundays @ Eden. We had some good times there. It takes a while to get into it, but it rocks...it's by Starkillers and called 'Bitch Ass Trick'.

The best T-Shirt?

2009-10-08T13:06:00.005+02:00

During the summer i got given an amazing T-shirt by a really really great friend called David. He has worked in Ibiza in the West end for a couple of seasons now, and it's been a pleasure to develop such a great friendship.

Anyway, when he turned up at the prayer room at the start of this season, knocking on the door around 2am, he was wearing this t-shirt that he'd got from Topman of all places. He said he knew that I'd like it - and he wasn't wrong. It's got the words: 'If you don't get on with the Devil, Jesus will always take you back.' And it's got a picture of a woman (looking quite devilish) next to a Church and a sign saying 'All returns accepted, no questions asked'. He said that he wanted to give it to me, and a few weeks later, it was in my possession. It's now my favourite T-shirt ever!

How awesome is the message on this T-shirt? And the fact i got given it by someone i met in Ibiza is pretty cool. It's got The gospel all over it!!! The sign saying 'all returns accepted' reminds me of the story of the Prodigal Son in the Bible, one of the greatest stories Jesus ever told. The youngest son takes his share of his inheritance and turns his back on his father and goes to a far off country (a modern day version might have Ibiza as the country) to spend all his money on wild living. After running out of money and his friends have left him, he decides to try to get a job feeding pigs, and is desperately hungry. He makes the decision to go home and face his father, worried that he might not be accepted. But the fathers heart is amazing, waiting and ready to accept back his rebellious son, with full forgiveness and in total grace. Jesus told this story to tell us what God the father is like, and it's a pretty awesome message!

This story is relevant more than ever today. Jesus - the exact representation of God - is ready to welcome back anyone who has gone and danced with the Devil, no questions asked. Fact!

Rest

2009-10-07T14:13:00.005+02:00

I am now at my Mums house in Lincoln. It's lovely to rest, to have a full English/Roast dinner and to recharge the batteries. I'm hoping to see a couple of mates here and there, but mainly to just chill before heading home on Friday. I wish it was longer, but I'm glad of the time.

At the moment i am gathering as many books on prayer as possible. I feel that over the summer I begun to hit a level of prayer that was effective, yet somehow i knew that there's so much further to go. To be fair, one of the main activities that we do over the summer is prayer. We pray for individual needs, for the broken and the hurting, and also for the holiday makers that we meet. Deep down I know that there is so much more i need to learn and grow when it comes to prayer. I mean i feel I only at the tip of the iceberg. There are times that i pray for someone or something and then end up hitting a dead end. I can pray for someone's addiction, yet i want to see them set free. I know prayer can do this....

The term 'spiritual warfare' is constantly batted about in Churches, yet to be truthful, i don't know much about the subject. I traditionally thought that this specialist area was assigned to Church members who tended to lead extremely serious, yet boring and dull lives. Now I'm thinking about this all myself and in desperate need to find fresh teaching and i have a heart to learn more.

24-7 Rocks Amsterdam

2009-10-06T00:09:00.004+02:00

I had the opportunity to be in Amsterdam this weekend as part of the 24-7 Prayer gathering. The meeting wasn't that large, yet many different nations were represented there, with Germany, Scandinavia, The Balkans, and Essex among the main groups! It was an excellent weekend, and i loved hearing some of the things going on in Europe and listening to some excellent talks inspiring us to renew our love for God and the call to pray.

It's so clear that 24-7 isn't about a vision, or a mission statement, or about buildings, or results but about people. What i love most of all about the 24-7 movement is the friendship i have with such great people. Doing what i do in Ibiza means I've had the privilege to meet some fantastic people over the past 18 months, and it was great reconnecting with many of them and catching up with them. It brings such life and renews faith in what I'm called to do. People are so supportive of Ibiza, in particular the Irish lot and the Boiler room in Standford-le-hope. What lovely people they all are! I love you guys. Thanks for the amazing Ethiopian that we shared...yum!

The highlight of the weekend was the Auction on the last day. T-shirts were designed and donated and sold to raise money for 2 couples to bless them in their work. I think about €2500 was donated. The giving and generosity during the sale of a special knitted t-shirt (made by Peggy from Standford) was remarkable. Who says being generous isn't fun? Good times!

I Heart Amsterdam

2009-10-05T21:13:00.007+02:00

The picture above is of the motto that the city of Amsterdam have adopted since 2005. These huge monuments are scattered throughout the city and represent the pride and confidence the locals have in their beautiful city.

During a seminar whilst attending the 24-7 Prayer conference I heard a guy mention that it's interesting that the words in red is the name God uses in Exodus to tell his name to Moses....'I am'. How cool is that? All over the great city of Amsterdam is Gods name. In a city with such a 'dark' reputation, we see Gods name right in the centre of it all.

I loved being in such a beautiful city. When i wasn't in meetings, i got to enjoy seeing the sights, the canals, the restaurants that serve every type of food, the people from every corner of the globe, and the buzz. One evening we did walk through the red light district as i wanted to see it firsthand. It was both shocking and sad, to see people literally 'on sale'. But apart from that, the city was such a fantastic place.

24-7 Euro Gathering in Amsterdam

2009-09-30T14:39:00.000+02:00

This weekend I'll be in Amsterdam for the annual 24-7 Prayer Gathering. I'm well looking forward to being there and seeing lots of friends and hearing some great talks and hopefully being encouraged. Am feeling really knackered after a busy summer season and i hope to enter a time of rest; rest for my soul. I read in Matthew 11 about Jesus giving rest for the soul. The Message puts it in such a beautiful way: 'Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest...learn the unforced rhythms of grace.' Wow!

The theme for this year is taken from Phillipians 4: ‘Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead. I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus.' I love this bit of scripture so so much, and can't wait to hear more.

The Prayer Wall

2009-09-29T18:07:00.006+02:00

Here are some photos of loads of prayers in our Prayer room at the Centre. As you can see, the prayer wall is full of prayers written by workers and holiday makers alike. We have the wall split into sections; prayers for health and protection; for family and friends; for work and finance; direction and future and for everything else.

Whenever we are out and about on the streets and we take a prayer request from someone, we immediately pray for it before putting it up on the wall. It's great to see the wall so full. Quite often workers pop their heads in and read all the prayers and sometime end up writing one themselves. I can't tell you how great it is to see people connect to God in this simple way. Awesome!

The Highest and The Greatest

2009-09-29T00:29:00.003+02:00

I love this song by Tim Hughes, and I'm learning it - hoping that i won't kill it - which i usually do to decent songs! The lyrics are awesome and i think they are totally appropriate to the place that I work in. Young people from all nations gather here in Ibiza to worship, and it'd be amazing to see people lifting up the name of Jesus. It's an amazing cry to all the nations to bow down to God. I do hope that one day people here in Ibiza will cry to God 'You are the greatest'.

Verse 1
Wake ev'ry heart and ev'ry tongue
To sing the new eternal song
And crown Him King of Glory now
Confess Him Lord of all

Chorus
You are the highest
You are the greatest
You are the Lord of all
Angels will worship
Nations will bow down
To the Lord of all

Verse 2

A day will come when all will sing
And glorify our matchless King
Your Name unrivaled stands alone
You are the Lord of all

Oh let ev'ry heart
Let ev'ry tongue
Sing of Your Name
Sing of Your Name
Let ev'ry heart
Let ev'ry tongue
Sing sing sing

Lifting you high, higher and higher

Space Closing Fiesta!

2009-09-28T01:41:00.006+02:00

Space Closing was great today. It's the party that officially ends the clubbing season here in Ibiza. Not only does Space hold about 3000 people, but they open the car park at the back that holds at least another 5000 or so.

These are some of the DJs we saw - firstly Sneaky Sound System, who seems to be making a big name for himself (really filthy big beat music), then a live set from Pendulum, both outside and the latter one in the heavy rain - but we got handed some rain coats at the entrance - which were much appreciated. It was funny dancing in the rain. We then headed indoors to the Sunset terrace and stayed there for ages. It has such a great atmosphere, and the vibe is amazing.

Back outside to see Wally Lopez before heading to see Tom Novy smash the sunset terrace. He plays such groovy, uplifting tech-house, the kind that makes you smile and put your hands in the air. The more i hear House music, the more i like it with melody; need it to be uplifting and with vocals thrown in for good measure. Best choons today were 'Open your eys' by Snow Patrol and 'You've got the love' by The Source. Awesome choons. He finished with 'With or without you' by U2. Yes!

We missed loads of other DJs as we had to be back, but it was great to get to the closing party of the year. It really is the party to finish on and celebrate such a great summer.

Last night of Streetwork

2009-09-27T10:51:00.004+02:00

On Friday night we walked the streets of the West End for one final time. Helen had a great idea to buy some pick 'n' mix sweets and we walked about handing them to workers, which they loved. I was up for going out to 'Wonderland' @ Eden as Faithless were playing but i was just not up to it. Feelings of tiredness and the emotions of the season winding up and saying goodbye to some special people meant that all i wanted was to get some rest.

Having had some rest yesterday, and spending some quality time with God, I'm feeling much fresher, which is just as well as today we're heading down to Space for the Closing Fiesta! We need to be in before 1pm, which is always wierd to be in a club for that time, but it means cheaper entry. I just hope that it doesn't rain, as much of it will be outside and the weather has been pony lately! The line-up is unbelievable - as always - and I'm well looking forward to having a boogie. Am hoping to bump into loads of worker friends and enjoy the day together.

Dancing to a different beat - Part One

2009-09-20T19:22:00.002+02:00

I am dancing to a different beat.

Of course, we are all listening to the same DJ and the same beats, yet at a deeper level we are dancing to a completely different beat. When i say we, i mean Christians.

What i mean by that is this: when it comes to clubbing i think that Christians are to be set apart and to be radically different - so much so that it makes people think and stirs questions in them. So much so that it enables people to connect with what it is Christians are celebrating when they go out to a club and go dancing. So much so that our lives are a witness to those around us and a testimony to something far greater than the night itself .

At the start of the summer, we got to know a guy who was a friend of one of the workers. He was here for a few weeks and we ended up bumping into him a few times. Whilst out with us in a club, he didn't drink like he usually does, and he ended up having a great night. He put it down to being with us and around us. We loved the night, the music and the atmosphere, and i think it was a huge witness for him to see similar people just having the best time without the need to be on some form of drug. That night he promised himself that he wouldn't head out the following weekend and get smashed like he usually does.

Encouragement

2009-09-17T13:47:00.003+02:00

The last two nights we've had three separate holiday makers call us over to simply say 'thank you'. One girl said that last year one of our team had talked her out of taking drugs, and she's not touched them since, and that her mum wants to financially support our work because of the impact it has made. Cool!

Another guy said that he too was in a mess on drugs and that after being helped to get home last year, he decided to not do them again and hasn't! How cool!

As we end another season, it's great to hear this encouragement and to know that behind all that we do God is at work and changing people on a deeper level.

Awesome Weekend!!!

2009-09-15T17:14:00.003+02:00

Sunday just gone was awesome as we got to baptise Christine! She lives with us and has taken a work break to give 6 months to the work of 24-7 Ibiza. I think someone threw the idea out about getting baptised and along with lots of encouragement and maybe a dash of good-pressure, she decided nothing would be better than to get baptised whilst serving God in Ibiza.

What made the day really special for me was the company. Some of our best friends who live and work here for the summer agreed, albeit slightly reluctantly, to come along and witness this strange Christian tradition done Ibiza style.

Our guests came around our house for food first (which always helps) and then we all piled down to a beach to dunk Christine under the sea. It was a really great day, and they were all pleasantly surprised by the whole symbolic act of Christine publicly declaring her belief in Jesus.

There's nothing more exciting then baptising someone here in Ibiza. I wonder who'll be next?

Final Team

2009-09-14T17:55:00.003+02:00

At present we have 5 people here who make up our 7th and final summer mission team. Cue the cheesy, emotional music and the tears in the eyes. I can't quite believe that the final team is here and going on Friday! Basically i don't want them to leave.

This team have been flipping great! I told them that last night, but they think i say it to all the teams. I kind of do...but this team are great, and one reason i told them that is because they danced for nearly 8 hours in Space last night - good effort troops!

But the other reason i told them that they're great is that i feel that we've hit a level of intimacy and worship in our prayer room that we've not had all summer. If you've been out on a team and are reading this, it's because of you and all the prayers you've sown - so you can give yourself a pat on the back and take a 'well done' from me for good measure!

Just to give you a fuller picture of what i do, before we begin our streetwork at night we gather together (around 11:30pm) to pray and sing and read scripture - basically breath God in. The prayer and worship times have been on another level! Another level i say again with a shout! It's like God's presence is being poured out in a new way and we're worshipping God with new voices. It's unreal! But you know what's even better? We don't stay in our prayer room - we go out and breath God out, and his presence spills out to the people we talk to and help. I got to pray at least 3 times last week for complete random strangers about various things. It's so exciting!

Tonight I'm supposed to be on a night off, but sack that - I'm getting on it in prayer and am looking forward to seeing people touched by God's presence!

Gods PR

2009-09-11T19:44:00.005+02:00

Here in Ibiza, most bars and clubs employ several people to act as PRs - in other words their job is to try to persuade you to go into the bar and buy some drinks, offering all sorts of drink deals and selling their bar as the best place to dance in.

The other night, someone said that we are PRs of God, and in a sense, she was totally right. We are not based at a particular bar trying to get people in (which makes me think of Church), and we don't have any alcohol to give, but we do offer many other things. One of the main things that we offer and which is such a witness, is a free lift to either the medical centre or to the hotel to people who end up getting into a drunken state whilst drinking in the West end. We also offer prayer, either by asking them to write it on a prayer request card which we'll pray for later, or usually we offer prayer right there and then on the street (which is by far the more exciting method).

So in a sense we are God's representatives, which on one hand is such a huge responsibility, yet on the other hand fills me with such excitement. What an opportunity to be a witness to the many people who come here on holiday? To be His voice, His hands and feet as we walk about. To share our story, to pray, to talk about faith and belief and life and death.

I LOVE IT!

Formentera = Paradise

2009-08-19T01:37:00.004+02:00

I've just had two very good friends called Tim and Nick stay with me for a long weekend we've had such a great time. Both the guys have been to Ibiza several times before and have both been involved in 24-7 Ibiza in some way or another.

Since I've been coming to Ibiza, I've wanted to visit the small sister Island of Formentera that lies about 20 miles to the south of Ibiza. We had talked about going last summer, but never got the chance, so we made an extra effort to get across. It's a very small island, with not alot of people living there, but the idea is to lie on the secluded beaches and not to interact with people. It's definitely the playground of the rich and famous, judging by the amount and size of the yachts on show.

The sea was the clearest I've ever swam in, and it felt like paradise to lie on the sand and get totally rested. When you have your best friends around and you are in such a beautiful place, it's hard not to feel so blessed.

Maiden Voyage!

2009-08-13T18:11:00.004+02:00

Our wheelchair saw some action last night. We found a guy that needed taking home, and as Ibiza Rocks hotel was around the corner, we wheeled him back. I was fairly pleased with my wheelchair skills! All joking aside, it's such a blessing not to have to carry someone across your shoulders, as it just does your back in. We just need to get a flag for it now...preferably with our 24-7 Ibiza logo on it.

Breathing!

2009-08-13T17:57:00.004+02:00

The last few nights out on the streets has been so exciting. Every time that i go out, there are opportunities to witness, to share God's love and to pray for people. But this all happens because we get a chance to breathe God in and to be filled up in our prayer room.

Last week some holiday makers that i met and prayed for last summer came back for 2 weeks of Ibiza madness, and it's been great to have them around. They are our biggest fans, and each night we've bumped into them drinking at their favourite bar, they've written prayer requests for themselves and for their loved ones.

One of them even wanted to pray for us whilst out on the street, so we all got in a huddle and he prayed protection over us. It was a genuine and heartfelt prayer that rocked! We all met up with them and had a drink to say good bye before they got their flight. They'll be missed, and i hope to see them again.

Publish his glory!

2009-08-06T14:37:00.003+02:00

I read this yesterday and thought it was really appropriate for our work here in Ibiza. It's from 1 Chronicles 16: 23-29

"Sing to God, everyone and everything!
Get out his salvation news every day!
Publish his glory among the godless nations,
his wonders to all races and religions.
And why? Because God is great - well worth praising!
No god or goddess comes close in honour.
All the popular gods are stuff and nonsense,
but God made the cosmos!
Splendor and majesty flow out of him,
strength and joy fill his place".

Shout Bravo! to God, families of the peoples,
in awe of the Glory, in awe of the Strength: Bravo!
Shout Bravo! to his famous Name,
lift high an offering and enter his presence!
Stand resplendent in his robes of holiness".

What struck me is that in a sense we are publishing God's glory here in San An, and we're also getting God's salvation news out and about on the streets. It's gets me thinking too about some of the gods that are worshipped here in Ibiza, and that they don't even come close to the God who made the cosmos. This scripture fueled my prayer time last night.

The Best Weekend in the World...EVER

2009-08-05T17:17:00.003+02:00

So here is my best weekend EVER.

On Friday, Jud, James, Christine and I all piled down to The Ibiza Rocks Hotel and caught the Radio 1 weekend happening there. Pete Tong did his Essential Selection show live from there, and Vernon Kay was the host with the most. We saw acts like Florence and The Machine (she sang 'You've got the Love' - amazing), we saw DJ's Deadmau5, David Guetta, Eric Prydz and of course, Mr Pete Tong himself. It was great fun, standing in the sun, in the coolest hotel and bumping into many worker mates that we knew.

Straight after, i was treated to a curry at The Curry Club. We rested our broken bodies and ate some great food. Then the bombshell - i was being treated to a ticket to Radio 1 and Cream at Privilege the following night. I had several freshly born kittens right there and then! Amazing. How generous of Jud and Christine to do that. Thanks girls!

Saturday started with a trip to Aqua Mar (the Water Park) where we slid all day long down some crazy slides. I got sunburnt. Badly. Must have been the slides.

Then, onto the biggest club in the world to see DJs like Eric Prydz, 2ManyDJs and Zane Lowe. The main room is like an air hanger and can fit around 10,000 people. It was pretty packed with great music. But you know who smashed it for me? Laidback Luke. He was awesome: smiley, happy, hands in the air and playing some filthy beats. Best choon: 'Tonight's going to be a good night, i can feel it' - not sure by who, but that summed up not just a great night with wonderful people but a great weekend.

Btw...i do work too...honest.

Fruitfulness!

2009-08-04T17:22:00.000+02:00

So i was chilling out the other day whilst sitting under one of our Fig trees. It's one of my favourite places to think and to journal and above all to reflect. I actually took a picture of this tree a few months ago. It was bare, ugly and didn't have much life to it whatsoever. Yet check these pictures out! I sit under a different tree, surely? This tree is full of life, large green leaves everywhere and now loaded with fruit. The fruit is not ripe yet, but in a month or two we'll harvest the figs.

One thing strikes me - if you were to look at the surrounding area you'd see that it is extremely dry and there's no water around. The land is unforgiving. Yet there is life in this tree. It seems a fig tree can grow in the harshest of conditions. How true of my life. At times i feel dry, lacking water and lacking in life, yet life is there, with the promise of fruit to come. How exciting!

Prayers of Faith

2009-07-30T18:14:00.005+02:00

"The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective" Jas 5:16

Last night we started the evening by praying that God would intervene in people's situations whilst here on holiday. We raised our faith as we reminded ourselves that God is at work here and can put a stop to situations before they even arise. This is what we're prayed for:

That God would stop someone from wanting drugs
That God would intervene with someone feeling pressured to have sex
That God would keep friends loyal and that people would not leave friends behind and on their own
That God would give people sense when they buy alcohol and that people would stop when they've hit their limit
That God would put a halt to men wanting sex with prostitutes

You know what? We've coined the phrase 'Messy Wednesday's' as Wednesday's involve lots of projectile vomiting. The reason for this is for hotel change-overs, so we find that most people that we help have just arrived on Wed night/Thurs morning, but they've been drinking from the moment they left their house, on the way to the airport, at the airport, on the flight and then once here they are straight out into the West End.

Last night was different. It wasn't so messy. We helped one person get back to their hotel. Usually we find ourselves involved with several groups of people needing help. I believe it's down to our prayers. God is intervening and answering our prayers of faith. He is at work and most of the time we don't even notice.

"Time marches on, never ending"

2009-07-28T20:18:00.003+02:00

Much has happened over the past 6 or so weeks and i've not really had the time nor the inspiration to keep up with blogging. I love keeping my journal which includes everything that goes on in my life, but this blog is different.

I want to fill you in on some of the things that i've been doing over the past 2 months, so hopefully there'll be loads of posts with some interesting pictures to go with them.

Please bear with me as i think of interesting, fun and insightful posts that shed more light on my life here in Ibiza.

Team 2 of Summer '09

2009-06-22T23:50:00.005+02:00

We've got a full house at the moment, with three summer volunteers living with us, and an extra special guest called Simeon - who is here for about three weeks. Great to have him here with us. Sunday just gone, we had a large community meal, and invited some workers up to the farm. It was a great meal, and we had some good laughs.

We've got a team from Northern Ireland with us at the moment, and after a good first week with them out on the Streets at night, we had a cracking weekend, and took the team to Pacha - which they all loved. It was to a 'Defected' night, and The Shapeshifters DJed. Many won't know nor care who they are, but if you want to know - they smashed it (played some amazing choons and created an immense atmosphere in the club)!

If Carlsberg did mission teams....

(Sorry for such long Blog-silence btw).

'God is a DJ' Article in Mixmag

2009-05-14T16:14:00.004+02:00

The work of 24-7 Ibiza was recently featured in the latest (May 09) edition of Mixmag - the worlds biggest dance music and clubbing magazine. When i was contacted to talk about our work, i was really excited at the thought of us getting in such a high profile magazine (I've been a fan for many years). What a great way to reach thousands of clubbers who head out to Ibiza for their annual pilgrimage with a completely different kind of message and work.

However, having read the article, I'm completely gutted! What she's written about our work is true, but it's the two comments that were written about our work that suck. I know that it makes for good reading, but it completely guts me.

This is what a DJ called Oliver Lang (resident at Bora Bora) commented about us:

"I wholeheartedly support anyone who tries to help someone else, but i don't think it's the job of a religious group to go out to Ibiza and look after ravers in a state. That's the job of the police, ambulance crews and the clubs. I mean, what a perfect opportunity to convert someone to Christianity when they're a bit off their heads. Everyone seems to look after each other in Ibiza anyway. That's the religion of Ibiza, in my opinion, with or without these people."

Simon Morrison further comments, referring to us as 'God Botherers'.

"In clubs, people are vulnerable because of drink and drugs, which disables some people mentally on a temporary basis. That's why it's a good hunting ground for Christians. The main intention is not to care, but to convert, which i think is wrong."

I can't believe we've been totally stabbed in the back like this by the author of the article. These two people have, as far as i can tell, never met us, and once again they reinforce the classic stereotype of Christians - only out to convert and change people by force - bashing them with our Bibles. If they were to actually meet us and see what we do and how we do it, i think they'd quickly take back those comments. I really want to go down to Bora Bora - where we went several times last summer - and chat to Oliver Lang and ask why he wrote that about us having never met us.

I wonder what all the workers in the Westend - who know us - would say? What would their response be to our work? As if we'd actually abuse our position to try to convert someone in a vulnerable state. We actually protect them, get them to hospital, make sure they get back to their hotel safe and sound. I don't see the police nor the ambulance and definitely not the clubs doing any of that. Fact! Our intention is to care, to love and above all to serve. And if someone would ever want to talk to us about our faith whilst we're helping them, we'd most likely tell them to meet us the next day. Most of the time they never do. Can you tell I'm slightly peeved?

Let the Streetwork begin

2009-05-07T22:18:00.004+02:00

Tonight will be the second night that i've been out in the West End this summer so far, with the first last night. It's great to finally be back doing what i love.

This week we are getting out each night for 2 hours. When out on the streets we meet and chat to PRs and workers, both old and new for an hour, and when we stay back in the Centre we pray for the next hour. It's really great bumping into so many familiar faces and people that I've gotten to know over the last few summers, and I'm pleasantly surprised just how many are back again, but even more shocked to hear they never left and were here all winter. How did i miss them in such a small place?

With the season having only just begun, it's not that busy with tourists, clubbers and revellers yet. But give it a few weeks and the streets'll be totally heaving. I wonder when we'll be called to take a drunk home? Any guesses? I reckon there'll be one in May!

The Prayer Team

2009-04-30T22:32:00.003+02:00

I cannot believe that the summer madness is about to begin here in Ibiza. I don't feel well prepared nor equipped for anything that lies ahead, so it's with a huge sigh of relief that we have a Prayer team here for 6 days to help us get ready.

I feel that i have 1001 things to do still and we open our Centre this coming Monday, and on top of being behind, I don't feel mentally nor spiritually prepared.

Yet having these fantastic people here to pray and work has been such a huge blessing for me. They've been an immense team, and have already made an impact that i believe will last for a much longer time than they can imagine. Not only have they physically worked up on the farm, but have also shared their prayers and thoughts and words of encouragement with us.

Having them around has brought strength of purpose and encouragement to me and i think i can now put the key in the ignition and start the engine!

Our Onions are Spring Onions!

2009-04-30T20:32:00.001+02:00

Coming along nicely...

Our Potatos!

2009-04-30T20:24:00.004+02:00

Check these out! They are growing everso well. I'm really pleased that all our hard effort is paying off. They are simply bursting with life! Bring on the harvest!

Famous Quotes

2009-04-30T20:15:00.002+02:00

I'm putting together some famous quotes from a completely broad spectrum, to use in our 24-7 Centre. Do you have a favourite quote? Any inspirational gems for us to use? Message me on here....

How about this one: "I'm going to make him an offer he can't refuse." Any guesses?

Old to New

2009-04-17T01:43:00.003+02:00

My new trainers, a gift from Freddy and Agneta...so lovely of them! My old pair were...well...dead! They are white, think they'll get dirty quickly, but i don't care really! New shoes!!!!! Thank you guys!

Onions!

2009-04-07T18:44:00.001+02:00

Coming along nicely!

We have life!

2009-04-07T18:24:00.002+02:00

So check out our potatoes. At least i think they are the plant of the potato. Am i right? They seem to be spaced equally apart and if i remember, Helen planted them like that. I'm so excited! My friend Ruth (who is here for 10 days) helped with the farm chores. We chopped wood (Ruth's first time using an axe) and we watered the plants and veg.

Our crops are growing!

The Onion Cam

2009-03-26T20:09:00.004+01:00

Keep updated on how well we're doing with growing onions. I'll post a photo every few weeks with their progress. Here's the onions after about 4 weeks of TLC. They were just small seedlings when we planted them, and now look at them. Spring onion anyone?

Joint 30th birthday invitation

2009-03-26T18:45:00.004+01:00

Hola Amigos!

You're all invited to attend my joint 30th birthday bash with my twin sister Nicole, on Sat 18th April at The South London Pacific, Kennington, London. Nicole is my extra special VIP, so please come along and meet her! My good friends behind the Sambalanco Soundsystem are hosting the party as a one off special, so please make it even more special by coming along if you're around. It's set to be a road block! Quote 'Bruces Bonus' and you'll get in for £2! Job done!

Check out Facebook for more details by searching 'Sambalanco'.

Cala Comte Sunset

2009-03-23T19:55:00.003+01:00

Yesterday, Helen and her two friends and I all went in search of a sunset. We drove to Cala Comte and were not disappointed. We were treated to one of creations amazing spectacles, with not a cloud in sight and just a simply breathtaking sun service.

It reminded me about what Ibiza is all about; the magic, the beauty of creation, even the search of meaning too. I know that sounds clique, but watching something as beautiful as a sunset just stirs you inside, and makes you think about the world, life and your own purpose in it all; the question of why am i here?

On the other hand, I'm also very much looking forward to sitting with thousands of other sun-worshippers, drinking in creation and feeling the excitment of life once more. Bring on summer '09!

Fig Trees

2009-03-19T17:04:00.004+01:00

We are so lucky to have a number of beautiful Fig trees on our land, and none more so than this fine specimen. Although this tree looks empty and bare, there's the tiniest hint of the fruit to come. From looking at it, you wouldn't think that life could come from such a tree, being so gnarly and grey and old. It looks weary, and completely messy. Branches hang everywhere and grow in a thousand directions.

Yet as an observer, i only see the outside. I wonder about its roots. Are they healthy? But the big question is: will this tree bear much fruit, and good fruit at that?

I feel a bit like this tree. All messy and a little empty. Yet i hope...