A Visit to Guernsey

One of the very first things that strikes you when arriving on the beautiful island of Guernsey is that the impact of the German occupation during the Second World War is not forgotten. Stepping off the ferry and walking towards the town centre of St Peter Port, there stands the Liberation Monument, and etched into the concrete on the dock walls is a timeline of the Guernsey occupation starting with the bombing of the harbour on June 24th, 1940 and eventual liberation on May 9th, 1945. On that day all German flags were lowered across the island and British officers stepped back onto Guernsey’s shores to liberate the island. 

Not far from St Peter Port is a unique museum, set up by one Guernsey inhabitant, Richard Heaume, called ‘The German Occupation Museum’. There you can see hundreds of fascinating artefacts that relate the story of ordinary Guernsey inhabitants during those troubled days. 

It isn’t perhaps surprising then that churches on Guernsey have long shown an interest in the work of SASRA. Before Covid, Area Representative Matthew Glass visited the island most years and received a warm welcome amongst the many congregations. Last September I had the privilege of visiting, speaking and sharing a SASRA update with supporters who hadn’t had an in-person visit since 2019. 

So, what are my recollections?  First the roads – they are very narrow and the locals think nothing of going up on the pavement to navigate past. Jesus’ words – ‘narrow is the road that leads to life’ seemed very pertinent. There is a very well-established bus system though, which is great for travelling around the island. Overall, I would say that Guernsey is a little bit like stepping back in time – there is a strong sense of community and perhaps what would be called ‘old-fashioned values in the UK’, are more evident and appreciated here.  

The churches were very welcoming. During my stay I had formal meetings with six of the Bible-believing churches, and informal contact with a couple more. I was able to stay with a pastor and his wife on their farm, where they produce goat cheese. So, during the day Peter and his wife Mandy look after the goats and when the church meets, he seeks to meet the needs of the sheep!  

I was able to visit the only Gospel Hall on the island, attend some coffee mornings, services on a Sunday, as well as have formal and informal midweek evening meetings. What was so encouraging was that supporters continue to be interested in our work amongst the military and despite not having in-person meetings for the last few years, have faithfully prayed for us and continue to do so. It was very humbling to reflect on the faithfulness of those who pray and how the Lord honours and continues to answer those prayers today.