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At the close of the 1960's - the era of 'flower power', hippies and drug-taking in the U.S.A. and Britain - a Baptist Church at Bugbrooke near Northampton 'came alive'. The emphasis on total commitment to Jesus Christ and the power and gifts of the Holy Spirit attracted people from traditional churches to visit the chapel, led by Pastor Noel Stanton. Many young people joined and soon began to value the close, loving family of what became known as the 'Jesus People'.
They studied the early church in the Acts of the Apostles and began to share their money to help those with needs and to practice community living. Drug users and 'bikers' with violent histories became Christians and their changed lives attracted others looking for spiritual reality. The joy and love that was obvious in the church spilled out onto the streets of Northampton and local villages. Today 'Jesus Army' double-decker buses bring help and hope to many city centres, while 'Jesus People' continue to live 'in community' all across Britain. The organisation has links with other groups in undeveloped countries. Like the Salvation Army of the 19th and 20th centuries, these radical Christians seek to help people with needs that many other churches do not touch. Community life helps converts start a new, secure life of hope, although some slip back and others need long term rehabilitation. |
