Live updates from Saturday at Together 26

Updates from Birmingham on the second day of Together 26!

11am

It's a lovely day in Birmingham, and The Salvation Army is already actively engaging with the local community! A group of Salvationists participated in the local Parkrun, with some running and others ready to chat.

The Salvation Army runners included Tania Smith (Chelmsford) who has completed 465ish(!) Parkruns in more than 160 locations. She said: 'I love it, because it's so inclusive of people of all abilities. And that's really what the Christian Kingdom is all about.'

Captain Michael Hutchings (Southport) believes Parkrun is a great opportunity for outreach: 'I think it's about turning up. It's about consistency. I don't think Parkrunners tired after a 5K run want someone to hit them with a Bible. You turn up week after week, and slowly get to know their stories.' 

A shout-out to members of Birmingham Citadel, the nearest corps to this weekend’s event, who were out in force at Parkun this morning. Corps leader Major Ian Standley, an advocate for sports ministry, said: 'It's that whole idea of mind, body and spirit. And if we are fit spiritually, that's great, but if we are fit physically as well, then it enables us to do more of what God has called us to do.'

At the end of the race, Salvation Army water bottles were given away with a QR code to a podcast reflection and upbeat playlist of Christian music. If you're off on a run, jog or walk today, check out the podcast and playlist at salvationist.org.uk/sport-faith.

For a preview of what’s coming up today, view the event guide at salvationist.org.uk/together-home, and don't forget you can tune into tonight’s livestream at youtube.com/salvationarmyvideo.

• 6.30pm-8pm This is Us! Together in Worship – pre-meeting music from 6pm.

9am

Good morning and welcome to Saturday at Together 26!

It's Beth and Tim here from the Salvationist team and we’ll be bringing you the latest from Birmingham.

Before we get started, let's introduce you to the people who'll be helping us share live updates over the weekend.

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Be sure to follow @SalvationistUKI on Facebook and Instagram so you’re ready to tag us and join in the Together 26 conversation on social media.