Giving Hope And a Future: Bethany Christian Trust, the first 25 years

In the 1980’s Leith was an area of great social deprivation characterised by poverty with widespread social problems. It was out of compassion for the needs that prompted one man twenty-five years ago to start a mission that would touch the hearts and lives of many. There was a real need to show unconditional love to those in need regardless of background, race, gender or standing. This tells the story of Bethany Christian Trust which was founded 25 years ago to meet the needs of people in various situations for accommodation in Edinburgh. The Trust has gone on to meet peoples’ wider needs with their Seven Levels of Care which have led to a broad and diverse ministry in and around the city of Edinburgh including Street Work, Emergency Accommodation, Specialist Units, Supported Housing, a Toastie Club, Football Club, Charity Shops, a Care Van, Church Hall shelter over the Christmas period, Furniture Recycling, Community Education and Community Integration. Over the years many people have been involved with the Trust whether as users, volunteers or staff. This book is a tribute to them and an interesting history of a very successful ministry. Bethany Christian Trust has put their Christian faith into action and has had a transforming impact in the lives of vulnerable people and their communities. You may well think that you are just one man or one woman but this story will inspire you to reflect and realise how you can make a difference.

principally, this is the story of what can happen when an extraordinary God shares an idea with ordinary people who decide to act upon it. In a different context therefore IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU , Anne Berry, Author