The Best Bits of Bigger Than Dreams on its Birthday!
The Bigger Than Dreams tour has brought the story and music of God’s power in my life to around 1,000 people, in so many widespread locations that, if lined up in a nice linear route, would take over 7 hours to drive!
One year after the launch of my debut tour, I’m looking back on my TOP FIVE favourite BTD events…
5. The Bigger Greatest Dream Gift 
In December, Bigger Than Dreams got its onesie on, a hot chocolate in its hands and chilled right out for ‘The Greatest Gift’ at St Mary’s. Blankets, fairy lights and music from RAW made the cosy evening so special, and inspiring conversations with the young guests made it one of the most memorable BTD’s so far.
4. A Whole Latte Jesus
Crossing the border to Caffé Nero in Monmouth, the lovely Jonathan from Monmouth Baptist had packed the place with people from all over Wales – including my friend Naomi who trekked all the way from Brecon with her family! Singing Jesus songs and talking about healing in a high street chain just has something epic about it. Definitely a massive highlight.
3. “Weird – in a Good Way”
More exciting still was the sell-out opening night, at RBC in Ross-on-Wye. Home turf, surrounded by friends and family – plus dozens of faces I didn’t recognise – and the place was BUZZING. We had so much fun together, and I later learned that one of my favourite young people made a big step in her faith journey that night. As she skillfully described it, “It was the first time I felt weird – in a good way.”
2. Day of the Ducks
One place away from my favourite Bigger Than Dreams experience, was singing to the teenagers of The King’s School, Witney (and their numerous ducks)!
It was the last day of term, and for Year 11 it was their last day ever. To celebrate, they were allowed to decorate the whole school (hence an astonishing number of rubber ducks, literally everywhere) and the Bigger Than Dreams assembly was concluded with a pelting of ducks from above! (I hope you are getting a picture of the contagious enjoyment in the atmosphere, and the really bubbly, wonderful young people in the room while Dad and I played.) Being of the age where eating disorders and low self-esteem are rife, it also turned out to be one of the most poignant visits it’s been our privilege to do, and the response we received from the students – and teachers – surpassed our expectations.
1. Jailhouse Rock
But most exciting and memorable to date has got to be the trip to Peterborough Prison this weekend, where 45 women heard that Jesus is real, loves them, has a unique plan tailormade for their life, and that He can bring life-changing breakthrough.
In this context, every song hit home in a new way to me, as lyrics I’ve been singing for years suddenly came alive with poignant truth for exactly that moment. Despite the very frank Jesus-talk (I explained that they may hold different beliefs to me, and that’s completely fine, but my experience is that Jesus literally saved my life so I’m going to give him the credit), the women responded so warmly; some shouted encouragement and often joined in on the songs, while others closed their eyes or silently nodded. The whole room was engaged, each in their own way.
Taking It All In
It’s kind of breath-taking to look back on the last 12 months and see opportunities I couldn’t have created myself – even friendships I stumbled into that have opened doors I couldn’t have dreamed of – and it’s living testament to the truth that when we accept God’s plans for us we can achieve bigger things than we could even dream!
I can’t believe it’s been 12 months already! From no idea what a tour could look like, to a whole plethora (good word) of venues and audiences – I’ve been encouraged HEAPS and seen Jesus at work throughout. It’s been a wonderful, scary adventure and I’m so grateful for every step of it.
The Adventure Continues
Upcoming Dates
There’s more on the horizon! We’re heading to Mulberry House near Essex next, to explore purpose and identity at the beautiful Christian retreat centre in an evening for women on 28th March. All the information is here, we’d love you to join us!
Bring it Home
I’m open to chat to anybody who’d like to have Bigger Than Dreams at their event or space. If you’d like to know more, let’s talk! 🙂
[…] internationally renowned Hay Festival, two years ago this week, is a shining example. Witnessing at Peterborough Prison is another. And the opportunity to sing and speak live on national radio recently is another […]