Evangelism organisation Solas recently marked its 15th anniversary, commemorating the occasion with an online celebration, during which the team took the opportunity to thank its supporters, share stories of lives changed, and announce new initiatives.
Solas (the Scottish Gaelic word for “light”) was formed in 2010. Assistant Director for Operations and Communications, Simon Wenham, told en that the vision was to be a public voice for Christianity in Scotland. Fifteen years later, Solas, though based in Scotland, is now a UK-wide ministry.
Wenham told en more about Solas’ roots: “With Richard Dawkins and the New Atheists firmly in the ascendancy, founders David Robertson – pastor of St Peter’s Free Church in Dundee – and Gordon Wilson – former head of the Scottish National Party – saw the need to shine Christ’s light into an increasingly secular culture.” ("New Atheism" was a modern wave of outspoken atheism arguing that religion isn’t just untrue, but often harmful, and that society should rely solely on scientific reason.)
Solas aims to share the good news of Jesus “persuasively” and equip Christians for evangelism practically. The charity has an emphasis on apologetics: the ability to give reasons for belief, with the aim of helping others understand why Christianity is true.
The Zoom-based anniversary celebration featured talks from the three members of Solas’ speaking team: Andy Bannister (Director), Gavin Matthews (Assistant Director for Scotland) and Steve Osmond. The three main themes were: sharing Christ’s light; resourcing the church; and growing Solas’ reach.
Solas announced new initiatives: more resources for schools; new digital materials; more Islam-related content (Bannister holds a PhD in Islamic studies); an upcoming mentoring programme; and new books – one by Bannister about AI, and a “short answers” book. On the topic of literature, at the anniversary celebration, Solas gave away 15 free copies of Have You Ever Wondered? An outreach book featuring a range of evangelical authors giving answers to frequently asked questions and edited by Bannister and Matthews.
The celebration concluded with encouragement for attendees to get involved by sharing resources, providing financial support if possible, and praying for the ministry – accompanied by the launch of a new prayer channel.
Solas currently provides en's regular "everyday evangelism" column, written by Gavin Matthews. His latest offering can be read here.
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