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The Boaters' Christian Fellowship

For Christians who enjoy the Inland Waterways of Britain


Reflection for Advent

Advent reflection - "A light shall shine for those who walk amid the gloom."

My thoughts this season have been challenged by the idea of waiting. A couple of sermons and a book of Advent reflections (Advent Treasure by Liz Carter – ISBN 9798558130928) have led me to the beginning of a journey that will finish on Christmas Eve. The day after that will be the fulfilment of all that has been waited for.

How do you wait during this time? Is it with any sort of hope? What is the best thing that you can hope for?

For me it is about being reminded of some promises from scripture; and it is these promises that enable me to wait in hope.

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8.38-39 NIVUK).

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognise him.” (John 1.9-10 NIVUK).

In my waiting I reflect on this truth and hope and pray for the people of a world who desperately need to know and recognise this truth for themselves. Will you join me in this waiting and praying?


Who is the Boaters' Christian Fellowship for?

Cruising on the Kennet & Avon

If you are a Christian, and have a love of the British Canals and Rivers, then the Boaters' Christian Fellowship is for you! Despite the name, you do not need a boat to be a member.

Membership is open to anyone who agrees with our Statement of Belief. We are a diverse group of many denominations. Members of the Boaters' Christian Fellowship come from all walks of life and ages. Some just enjoy walking or sitting by the waterways. Many want to own a boat one day, or have sadly had to give up their boating life. Some enjoy Hire Boat holidays. Of course, a large percentage are currently boat owners or have a share in a boat.

Getting together

Canalway Cavalcade

It is our shared love of our Lord, and common interest in the waterways that brings us together. We organise get-togethers throughout the year (formally and informally), and our Membership Directory ensures you can find other members near you. Our AGM is a lively affair, with members coming from all over the country to share fellowship and worship. As well as the formal meeting (which we keep as short as possible), there is plenty of time to get to know each other. We also enjoy a "Bring and Share" lunch - which usually has enough left-overs for tea as well!

The Boaters' Christian Fellowship is a great way of getting to know other Christians across the network. If you are new to boating, several of our members will be only too pleased to share their knowledge with you. Our regular magazine, the BCF Word, is published four times a year in full colour. It is packed with useful tips, as well as members sharing stories of their cruises. There is a series of studies on the letter of Paul to the Romans, along with news from the Waterways Chaplaincy and Canal Ministries team.

The peace of the canals

Many people, from all walks of life, feel something of the "Peace of the Canals". It is a way of getting away from the pressures of life. A chance and a place to reflect. This is why the Canal & River Trust has the strapline "Making life better by water". As Christians, we can thank God for the opportunities this presents to share the Good News.


About Us

Formed in 1995 the BCF now has over 600 members, with approximately 350 privately owned boats. Read more...

Bridges

Been given a "Bridges" leaflet and want to know the answers? Then click here...

Meet us

If you would like to meet some of our members, click here to look at their online profiles...

Join Us

If you are interested in joining the Boaters' Christian Fellowship, then click here to read more...

Contact Us

Please click here for details of how to contact us.

History

Find out how and why the Boaters' Christian Fellowship was formed.

Verse of the Day