A report on the first ever LOVE OXFORD event, June 11th 2006

Around 2500-3500 people gathered in the hot Oxford sun. The three-fold goal of 'Declaring God’s Praises' (the singing was amazing); 'Praying for the Peace of the City' (the prayer time reached up to heaven and also touched peoples hearts); and 'hearing the Word of God preached' (excellent communication from two of our city’s preachers) happened in a service lasting just over 1½ hours. There was also a general sense of seriousness as the Prayer of Declaration was prayed with around 40 pastors on stage. Then there were times of great joy such as when a Caribbean version of 'Amazing Grace' was sung along with the song 'Let the streets resound with singing'. The general reaction we have had is one of great enthusiasm. Phrases like the following were on people’s lips and e-mails:

“It felt very significant to be worshipping and praying together and wonderfully moving to see the platform full of Pastors."

"Love Oxford was amazing yesterday - well done and congratulations to everyone who organised it. I hope we can do this every year!"

"It was brilliant!! I was SOOOOOOOO impressed! You did a great job."

"The fact it happened was historic. It was moving to be there. For most of my life I have been in an exclusive Church. My eyes are being opened more and more…I was touched on many levels. THANK you."

"To look out on Broad St as we stood together as Church leaders, to see such a sea of thousands of people of all ages who had come to stand, worship and commit to serving the purposes of God together was an awesome sight and the fulfilment of a long-felt dream."

"Thanks be to God he brought us to a 'new day' for the Church here in the City and area."

"It was amazing! It was such an appropriate climax to the university year and so important for the city…I could go through things item by item but there was so much richness and depth it would take me all evening. I can’t wait for the next one! Bless you…in your work for our great God”.