New General Director of the Evangelical Alliance says Christians are discovering new confidence

On Easter Sunday the congregation at Bradford Cathedral heard Steve Clifford outline his aspirations to see more Christians be ‘good news’ in their communities, in his first speech as General Director. 

15 April 2009

The new General Director of the Evangelical Alliance, Steve Clifford, is convinced the UK Church is finding fresh confidence as Christians seek to be more involved in their communities.  On Easter Sunday the congregation at Bradford Cathedral heard him outline his aspirations to see more Christians be 'good news' in their communities, in his first speech as General Director.   

Clifford, until recently Chair of HOPE08, said,  "It is wonderfully encouraging to see how the Church of Jesus Christ is finding fresh confidence, as we position ourselves in the heart of our communities and as we demonstrate the Gospel through our being good news as well as talking good news.  

"I am absolutely convinced that Christians uniting together in their faith is good for our society. It offers communities and individuals health and well-being, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Christ has called us as his Church to be the hope for our nation."  

He also spoke of his joy at being invited to return to Bradford where he grew up and to the Cathedral where his parents met and were married and where his father was ordained. He also spoke about the difficulties his family experienced when his father died when he was only five-years-old. He said, "This little 'Clifford' story is part of a far bigger story which is the story of God's involvement with humanity.  God hasn't abandoned us and is able to draw a bigger circle out of even some of the most tragic events of life.  God is wheeling and dealing in our lives, our stories, looking to see his purposes at work right across the face of the earth.  Our stories and God's stories merge as we allow ourselves to be caught up in his purposes and look for the out working of His will in our lives."  

He went on to express his wish to see unity of Gospel activity through both words and actions and to see transformation that speaks to the very heart of our society.  

"We must have confidence in the Gospel story. Alpha and Christianity Explored courses, as well as our 'gossiped' conversations with our neighbours, friends and workmates, all have the power to impact lives."  

The service concluded with leaders from across the city, including the Bishop of Bradford, the Rt Revd David James, praying with Clifford and his wife Ann. Clifford's mother and son also came forward to pray with him.