'He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall, but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:29-31)
Spring is here, and new hope is also here. No matter what you're going through, what the last month has been like for you, or what the future months look like, you can trust that God is with you and will give you the strength you need each day.
In this e-news edition, find out which Christian ministry can help some of our women recipients, details of the upcoming Besom Gathering, encouraging news from local Besoms, and testimonies from some of our recipients.
'Restored'- Christian Ministry for women
In our walk and service to the community as Besom-ers, we often come across women who've been through domestic abuse/violence and need extra support to get back on their feet, plus a sense of community. Did you know that there's a Christian organisation wholly focused on helping women and churches support survivors of domestic abuse/violence?
Restored is a Christian charity with a vision of a world where women live free from the fear of violence. Their mission is to speak up about the realities of violence against women and girls and to equip the Church to stand against domestic abuse and support survivors.
Their Survivors' Network supports over 700 female Christian survivors of domestic abuse, and their Survivors' Handbook has proved to be an invaluable resource to those navigating the challenges of leaving an abuser. This resource is free for survivors who can either download a digital version or have a hard copy sent. Churches and organisations can also buy this resource in bulk to make it available to the people they support.
Restored also offers three levels of training that individuals can join online or invite a Restored facilitator to deliver the training in person on a more bespoke basis.
There is also a network of Churches as part of the Restored Beacon network that are partnering with Restored to stand against domestic abuse. Restored offers training as part of the setup and ongoing support for Beacon Coordinators.
You can contact Restored directly here.
Encouragements from across the Network
The Besom in Esher
Annie and her team in Besom Esher had the pleasure of welcoming the Mayor of Elmbridge, Councillor Neil Houston to their new premises. They had the opportunity to introduce him to the Besom ministry and how they help share hope with those struggling with financial difficulties, mental health, homelessness, survivors of domestic abuse and those who've suffered relationship breakdowns. It was such a privilege to raise the banner for Jesus and be thankful to the council for the premises provided but also share their struggles and receive valuable advice, encouragement and support from the Mayor.
The Besom in Ashtead
The Ashtead team celebrated Penny and Chris Purdy and waved them goodbye as they are relocating to York. This is much to Ashtead's loss but Besom in York's gain! We can't wait to hear more of their journey with Besom in York and wish them every blessing as they settle into their new home.
The Besom in Cambridge
Besom in Cambridge welcomed the Vicar of St Bene't's Church to their warehouse, who was invited by one of their time-givers to hear more about Besom's work in the community and ways he can encourage his church members to get involved in Besom projects. His visit opened the way for wider and deeper conversations about ways his church can get involved more. The Vicar turned up the following week with his church members to paint at a Besom home project.
A big shout out to Besom in Cambridge for the lovely new banners on their warehouse entrance.
Recipients' gratitude - our encouragement
The Besom in Purbeck
Recipient A
'I hope you and the team have had a restful weekend. I am still amazed and praising God for all the hard work you and the team have done for us. Right down to the towels, pretty linens, and curtains. You have given us the gift of a home. If you are at Besom on Thursday, we would like to come and thank everyone in person.
Have a wonderful evening and a great start to the week, and may God bless your efforts and ministry (knowing or unknowing) in accordance with Matthew 25:40.'
Recipient B
'Thank you very much indeed for arranging the bed, chair, small table and a chair to sit at table for the purpose of having my meal, rather than balancing on my bed.
I am most grateful to you and your kind, helpful volunteers for such a speedy out come.'
The Besom in Woking
Recipient X
'Happy New Year to the BESOM. Thanks for being part of my success story in 2024. Thank you for the many things gifted me. Welcome to a more glorious 2025.
God bless you all'.
The Besom in Taunton
God matches donations to the right recipients
'One morning in the warehouse we needed towels and a colander for a starter pack. A colander was specifically asked for, which is unusual. That morning a donor brought a colander and another donor brought towels to the warehouse.'
Webinar - 5 Steps to starting a Besom
Our next 5 Steps webinar will be held on Thursday 25th April at 7.30pm. This webinar is for anyone who's interested in exploring our ministry, background, vision and mission plus anyone interested in setting up a Besom in their community.
Perhaps there is somebody you could invite to participate who has expressed a heart for serving those in need but doesn't have a Besom near where they live? You never know, we may be able to link them up with other enquirers in their region and it could be the start of something new!
Zoom log-in ID: 736 354 4303
No passcode required
Besom family prayer meeting
It's always good to come together to pray as a family. We need more of Jesus and more of you to join us as we seek His wisdom, direction, clarity and encouragement. you matter and are precious to god and us all. We would love to hear from you.
Join us every first Thursday of the month at 7:30PM and be expectant to hear from God.
Zoom log-in ID: 736 354 4303
No passcode required