The international Keswick Convention is in full swing until August 5.

An explosion of faith and God-talk has returned to the streets of this picturesque Cumbrian town. Christians are everywhere, there's hardly a patch of grass or a B&B untouched by this singing, exuberant crowd.

In a world that pretends it can do without God these happy Conventioners seem almost a community apart.

First-timers are welcomed and encouraged to experience this unique three-week event - the lectures, concerts, music seminars, missional groups, and lectern preaching - there's something for everyone's taste and age group, and the entrance is free.

We live in unprecedented times. This year's Convention theme is about 'change', as if we hadn't seen enough in the last four weeks.

A God who exalts the poor, lends his strength to the weak, and reconciles the outcast - a similar sounding change is stirring in politics too.

Some will smile and pass the Convention by. Taking a seat in the 3,000-thronged big-top tent is the only way to get a first hand experience of what's it all about.

Need a Programme? Telephone01900.821008. Or go online at keswickministries.org

R. Hall

Cockermouth