THROUGHOUT this week a Christian mission aims to challenge people to see Jesus as a friend rather than a historical figure.

Six churches across Leigh have joined together to launch the Searchlight mission on in a marquee at Kings Park Christian Centre on Leigh Road.

More than 140 people are in the mission team--33 of whom have travelled to Leigh from different parts of the country to help serve the community.

This week there are special events for families, sports enthusiasts, professionals and women.

Coun John Hilton the Mayor of Wigan and the Rt. Rev. Chris Mayfield, Bishop of Manchester, were among the hundreds who came to the launch.

Rev Elizabeth Brazell, who is leading the mission said: "Being a Christian has nothing to do with being Anglican or British it is about knowing Jesus Christ, knowing Him and having a personal relationship with him."

Elizabeth added: "People think we are hypocrites--and I say yes you're absolutely right. The point is Jesus found us. I was 13 when He found me."

She told the audience that God does still appear to people and that He spoke to her audibly and told her that He loved her.

Show me

She said: "I said to God if you love me show me. He then showed me Jesus on the cross and He said I did that for you because I love you and I said I wanted to be a Christian.

"There is no way back to God except through Jesus Christ we are not here to talk about an alternative religion."

The idea to have the mission sprang up between Rev Peter Leakey of Christ Church Pennington and Pastor Yaw Adu-Dwumaa of King's Park Christian Fellowship.

Mr Leakey said: "We are concerned about our town and the fact that many people are wondering around not knowing where they are going and of course our belief is that Jesus Christ is the way."

Other Searchlight Events

'Looking Good - Feeling Bad?' - A Colour Me Beautiful' evening in King's Park Centre.

Thurs Sep 6, 7.45 pm for 8 pm. For ticket info ring 01942 601070

Ishmael Family Praise Party - Singing, dancing and live music. Snack tea provided for kids in marquee

Thurs Sep 6, 4.30 pm - 6 pm:

Bygone Days in Leigh - A time to reminisce in the Marquee. Friday Sep 7, 4 pm - 6 pm

Friday (Sep 7) 7.30pm onwards at the Mick Martyn Suite, Hilton Park, Leigh: Faith, food and (rugby league) Football -- A sports night featuring Bill Ashurst, ex-Wigan and Great Britain rugby league star. For ticket information call 01942 601070

Sunday (Sep 9): closing service starting at 6.30pm in the marquee at King's Park Centre.