Ilyas grew up in a village in rural Pakistan, learning and memorising the Qur’an. But when he moved to a nearby city, he met a Singaporean missionary, who share the gospel with him. Ilyas gave his life to Jesus soon afterwards.
“I heard the gospel and the world changed for me.”
Ilyas later moved to east London. Before joining the mission, he worked both as a taxi driver and a Halal butcher – all so that he could share his love of Jesus with passengers, fellow butchers and customers alike.
“My zeal for the mission is growing every day, and it is always a blessing to see Muslims and others come to know Jesus, understand the grace, and joy that comes with that.”
Ilyas has a particular heart for sharing the gospel with people who like him, have grown up in a Muslim culture, with no knowledge of the gospel.
“51% of people in Newham are Muslim, so there is a huge opportunity to share the gospel.”
Ilyas, together with the missionary team in Newham, comes alongside churches to make connections with people around them, and share the life-changing news of Jesus.
This often involves responding to the extensive needs which many people in Newham experience. The borough has one of the highest rates of poverty in the UK.
Ilyas helps a number of churches running food banks, to share the message of Jesus as well as seeking to meet their practical needs.
"My vision and passion is that the Church is envisioned, equipped and mobilised to reach out to Muslims and others with the good news of our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ."
Ilyas is married with adult children. If you find yourself in East Ham, he will insist on cooking a Pakistani curry for you.
LCM shares the gospel alongside the local church of London, equipping everyday Christians to lovingly bring a message of hope in Christ to those least likely to hear it.
Registered Charity No. 247186
