In John 16:33, Jesus encourages His disciples in a most unusual way. He does not tell them that they will find life easy! In fact, He tells them that in the world they will find trouble!
Following Jesus is not meant to be an easy ride. But the real encouragement is that Jesus is with us in those troubles and by the Holy Spirit will provide us the means to overcome and come through them.
He tells the disciples that they have no need to be afraid because He will never leave them. And the balance of the trouble is that He promises us peace!
We will often find that peace in the stillness and silence of the countryside that surrounds us as we travel the waterways.
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.
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.
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.