Andy Carter

I am delighted to announce that Andy Carter is going out to Malaysia as a St Chad's Trust Volunteer. He will be there from mid January to the end of August. Andy came through the interview with flying colours and was rated an ‘A’ candidate. His musical ability, friendly demeanour and ability to work with young people led the Trust to believe that he will be a first rate volunteer.

For those who don't know Andy, he has just finished his A levels at Queen Mary's and started attending Church Hill Praise a year ago, after coming to Back to Church Sunday in 2007 at the invitation of some friends (you see, Back to Church Sunday does work!). Although he is therefore new to faith and Church, he is mature beyond his years. Those who know him know that he will be a first class ambassador for St Matthew's.

The Trust think it is almost certain that Andy's placement will be at a centre for  people with learning disabilities at St Paul’s Church, Petaling Jaya,  (almost a suburb of Kuala Lumpur) at least for the first few months. St Paul’s  is a lively church and its vicar is known to members of St Matthew's who have visited Malaysia – Canon Eddie Ong, his wife Ruth and their young son.  

It is going to cost around £1600 to send Andy, of which he has to find half. The Church Council has already promised to pay the other £800 from St Matthew's funds, as the Trust requires us to, and part of this has been met by some very generous private donations. I am sure any further help would be greatly appreciated! Please contact the Church Office.

When we interviewed him in Church Andy told us how much he was looking forward to going to Malaysia as a church. He is going to keep us informed by regular e-mails etc, so do look out for news from him. And please pray for Andy as he sets out on what I am sure will be a foundational trip for his future ministry.