Leaders appreciated at Ministers’ Appreciation Ball

Leading Christians, heads of church ministries and charities, as well as church leaders from across the UK, were present at the third annual Ministers’ Appreciation Ball (MAB), which was held at the London Hilton Tower Bridge Hotel in central London, and hosted by Premier Radio presenter, Nage, and Pastor Keeth Bandara of Elim church, Watford.

Steve Clifford, General Director of the Evangelical Alliance; Lord Taylor of Warwick; Rev Jacqueline Peart; Bishop Derek Webley of the New Testament Church of God; Pastor Michael White of The Tab in Lewisham, south east London, and Isaiah-Raymond Dyer were amongst those present.

The event is the brainchild of Rev David Shosanya, Regional Minister and Director with the London Baptist Association and a columnist with Keep The Faith. He founded the event in 2011, so that church leaders could enjoy a relaxing evening out amongst their peers, where they could also be inspired and motivated.

Mrs Olave Snelling, CEO of the Christian Broadcasting Council, was the keynote speaker. She reminded the 250 people present that, whilst it’s great to be an ambassador for God, Christians can and do sometimes experience great suffering when carrying out God’s work.

In a new addition, this year’s MAB also featured an awards ceremony to appreciate Christians who have served their communities well.

AWARD RECIPIENTS WERE:

Andy Frost – Contribution to Mission in the UK Award

Rev Roy Smith – Eldership in the Community Award

Rev Les Isaac OBE – Apostleship in Action Award

Leondre Douglas – ‘One to Watch’ Emerging Leader Award

Dr Anthony G Reddie – Outstanding Contribution to Theological Education Award

Rev Dr Joel Edwards – Christian Statesman Award

Bishop Derek Webley – Great Public Service Award

Shirley McGreal – Outstanding Contribution to Black Media

Marcia Dixon – Outstanding Contribution to Black Media

Keep The Faith has always aimed to highlight and report on the positive things happening within the Black faith community, and I feel honoured that our work has been recognised with this unique Award. Shirley McGreal, Publisher of Keep The Faith