James Beattie, Carol Wright, and Rev Eleanor Hayden
The speakers on Monday, 16th February were Mr James Beattie and Mrs Carol Wright, representing “Gideon’s International”, the charitable organisation that is famed the world over for placing Bibles in hospitals, hotels, prisons, schools, etc.
Visitors were warmly welcomed by M.W.I. president, Mrs Anne McBain, who set the scene with a reflection on the support and comfort to be found in the Bible at times of difficulty and stress. After an opening hymn, the guest speakers were invited to address the meeting. James began by explaining that UK Gideons are no longer permitted by the organisation’s governing body in USA to call themselves “Gideons” and in the UK they are now called “Good News for Everyone”. However, the work and commitment remain the same.
Those present were fascinated to hear how James and Carol spread the “Good News” by going into schools and giving pupils individual copies of the New Testament and Psalms. The organisation also provides “Badged” Testaments for those with their own crest, for example the PSNI and Fire Service. Large print versions are also available. Every opportunity is grasped and public events such as agricultural shows are great places to spread the word. James shared with the MWI that he always carries Testaments in his pick-up truck in the event of an unexpected opportunity to offer a Bible to someone within reach. His best example was an occasion when stuck a traffic jam, he presented a Bible to the occupants of the car behind him and the car in front.
Before closing James showed some photographs taken on a recent visit to Peru. It was very evident that James and Carol have a strong sense of mission and left the meeting with blessings and good wishes of all present.
Members of Omagh Methodist M.W.I. Monday 16.02.26