NLC have supported the fantastic work done by MAST for many years. Here is their latest newsletter.

Praise God:

• For the 26 schools that we have been able to visit over the last year. This number continues to grow!

• For openings to schools that were initially hesitant.

• That there are many schools open to having Walk Through the Bible RE lessons. 150 children in Matlock will be ‘walking through’ the Old Testament in November. • For the interest shown by the children in asking and answering questions.

• Praise God for the ‘behind the scenes’ support of the Trustees.

What we’ve been up to

After the school summer holidays, we are excited about getting back into schools this Autumn term. We have a busy schedule of leading Collective Worship and delivering WTB RE lessons. Before the summer break, we had a really great summer term. Hannah continued a Collective Worship series on the Old Testament and also looked at God the Father through the story of ‘The Lost Son’. Chloe also used ‘The Lost Son’ in her acts of Collective Worship to illustrate the theme of forgiveness and how when we turn to God he forgives us. We were able to give out Christian literature provided by MAST and Good News for Everyone to encourage the Year 6’s in their understanding of Christianity and in their transition to secondary school.

This term we are pleased to be able to distribute some Bible story books to schools donated by a MAST supporter. As we approach Christmas in December, we look forward to sharing the Good News of the birth of our saviour Jesus Christ. We pray that as we do this, the children will understand the true meaning of Christmas.

Thanksgiving Service

The Thanksgiving service in July was a great opportunity to give thanks for the work of MAST in the past and to pray for it’s continuing work in the schools of Matlock and the surrounding area. It was a wonderful time of worship, prayer, sharing snippets of what Hannah and Chloe do and fellowship with MAST supporters. Encouraging stories Hannah: It has been so encouraging to see the children’s interest in the Bible Stories shared with them. They listen, engage, think and answer questions. The number of questions that the children want to ask is particularly encouraging. Their questions are so original and interesting! It is so exciting to see children thinking for themselves about the bible and wanting to know more. I love to see children interested in the Bible and in God! ! Chloe: I visited a school in October 21 and taught the year 5’s the Old Testament programme. I returned to teach the same class (now year 6) the New Testament. I was amazed that they remembered all 40 actions and words that summarise the Old Testament from a year ago and answered quiz questions from what had previously been taught. So encouraging!