ALICE PICKETT

My life was totally changed at the age of 25 when I found out that Jesus was real, that he loved me and he had a purpose for my life. I am really looking forward to going to Sri Lanka - I love meeting new people, experiencing other cultures and telling people about what God can do for them.

TEAM LEADER - IAN MILES

Up until 11 years ago my life was going nowhere fast. I had spent the best part of 24 years drifting through life, avoiding responsibility and simply trying to get what I could out of life for nothing. Then in April 1998 I experienced what I can only describe as an amazing life changing experience that completely changed not only my lifestyle, and attitudes, but also my destiny.

After attending a Teen Challenge programme in order to overcome life controlling addictions I remained with the organisation for a further 2 years to work alongside other addicts that were seeking both God and freedom from addiction. It was here that I also met my beautiful future wife Lisa. I then attended Regents Theological College and obtained a B.A.(Hons) in Theology. In July 2004 I took up the position as Associate Minister at TCC where I still serve in a pastoral role.

In June 2004 Lisa and I were married, and we now have 2 beautiful daughters, Melisha 4 and Esther 3.

Being in God’s will and purpose has been challenging, exciting and rewarding. It has also been an amazing journey and the next step in this journey will take me to Sri Lanka. I am really excited about the possibilities that God can open up for the team as we seek to minister and to share the love of Jesus in Sri Lanka. Please pray that we will see many find their security and hope in Jesus Christ.

HELEN FARMER

Hi, I’m Helen Farmer and I live in Basildon. I have a daughter and two grandchildren and work with vulnerable adults in the community.

Attended Thundersley Congregational Church (TCC) for about 10 years. Am on the ministry team, and oversee four of the life groups TCC run.

Likes chocolate, reading, going to the gym, holidays.

Why go to Sri Lanka? Those who have gone on previous missions have always come back changed and the trip has impacted them in a new way. So I am looking forward to going to a country I haven’t visited before and spending some time with the people and just sharing the love of Jesus with them.

BOB EASTER

I am married with 2 daughters who both have their own families now. I retired after 40 years with the Ford Motor Company during which I acquired the status of Chartered Mechanical Engineer and European Engineer. I am secretary of Westwood Art Group and Vice Captain of Hadleigh Bowls Club.

I have been aware of a draw towards Sri Lanka for several years and after a few exchanges with Shuresh I sense that my role is to encourage the people working with him and sense that something important is still to be revealed.

DAVE PICKETT

Looking back I can see that God placed a passion for adventure and travel in me way before I really knew Jesus as Lord and Saviour of my life. In fact I was in my late 20's, after having served as a Royal Marine Commando and seen active service, when I gave my life to him. Although I'd already had many 'adventures' more were to come as I began to serve God with my whole life. I am really excited to be part of the Beacon Mission Team 2008 to Sri Lanka, and to be working with my old friend Suresh there. The adventure with God never ends and seeing lives transformed and changed makes all the difference.