Henry Olonga visits Isleham

Pound Lane Free Church is very pleased to announce that Henry Olonga will be visiting Isleham from 16th - 18th July this year. This visit is specifically to give those living in and around Isleham the opportunity to meet with, and listen to, Henry speaking about his cricket, his music, and his God.

Henry's factfile

Henry made his international debut in 1995, becoming the youngest player to represent Zimbabwe in test cricket. He helped Zimbabwe to its first ever Test victory in that game. A right arm fast bowler, Henry was the first black cricketer to play for Zimbabwe.
He achieved international recognition (along with team mate Andy Flower) in 2003 by wearing a black armband in a Cricket World Cup match to protest against the policies of Zimbabwe's government, led by Robert Mugabe. This act led to a warrant issued in Zimbabwe for his arrest on charges of treason (which carries the death penalty in Zimbabwe) and forced him to retire from international cricket and temporarily go into hiding.
Henry has a superb voice and "is an emerging tenor who has long participated in arts festivals With a foundation that lies in being afforded leading roles in productions such as the Gondoliers, Annie Get Your Gun, and Joseph and his Technicolor Dream-coat, Olonga has recently completed recording a full contemporary pop album with one of the UK's top producers, Robbie Bronnimann." (From http://cdbaby.com/cd/henryolonga).

Henry became a Christian at the age of 16. He says "I couldn't have made my protest unless I was sure that it was something God was asking me to do." And looking back on all that happened he now says "God called me to do what I did. God has always provided for me. I've never been disappointed with Him."
Henry is now pursuing a career in music. Visit his site www.henryolonga.net for more information and to listen to his superb singing.

Details of Henry's visit

The following provisional program (subject as always to God's overruling) has been prepared:

16th July 2010 Isleham Village Hall. Henry in concert

Spend the evening with Henry as he sings and speaks of all that has happened in his life from world cricketing success to seeking asylum under threat of death.

17th July 2010 Isleham Priory.

Join with us for barbeque, bouncy castle (for children only!), and family fun. Meet Henry and listen while he entertains you with talk of cricket, song and an insight into what makes him tick.

18th July 2010 Pound Lane Free Church

Henry will be taking the 11.00am morning service at Pound Lane Free Church.