Steve Legg, 1967-2024

We’re saddened to learn about the passing of our dear friend, Steve Legg. Always passionate about sharing his love for Jesus, Steve was a talented comedian, magician, author, magazine editor and speaker who used his gifts for the glory of God and the blessing of many. He was also a dedicated Ambassador for Compassion UK. Justin Dowds, CEO of Compassion UK, says, “Steve was a long-time friend, supporter and ambassador of Compassion. He had a deep passion for social justice, and through his ministry and personal commitments, he made a tremendous impact on the lives of children living in poverty. He brought joy to many and I personally will always fondly remember our time climbing Kilimanjaro together to fundraise for Compassion. Our prayers are with Steve’s family and friends as we give thanks for the life of a remarkable man.”

Since the independent release of debut album Watching Me in 2007, Philippa Hanna has grown from her roots in the Gospel scene to be one of the UK’s most engaging and inspiring songwriters. Over four albums her music has offered a positive message that has touched the hearts of audiences the world over. As well as taking in hundreds of solo tour dates, Philippa has toured alongside Lionel Richie, Wet Wet Wet, Rebecca Fergusson and Collabro. She has appeared on BBC Radio 2, the BBC's Songs of Praise, and has published two books, More (2008) and Following the Breadcrumbs (2013), tracing the "everyday miracles" of her Christian faith. She recently undertook two trips to Nashville to promote her music in the USA, funded with a grant from the Music Export Growth Scheme. This Lent, we’ve partnered with Philippa to offer you a series of beautiful free Lent devotions. Every day during Lent we’re sharing a Lenten reflection from Philippa’s new devotional book ‘Amazing You ‘ with accompanying Bible verse and Lent prayers. 

"The work of Compassion in Uganda is essential. Its ability to help transform young people's lives, from kindergarten to adulthood, is immeasurable. Lives that have been born into the most difficult and hopeless of circumstances can be dramatically changed by each one of us: by me. To know that giving a little can change so much is paramount in understanding the impact of Compassion." Noel Robinson, worship leader.

For more than 30 years, Graham has been at the forefront of Christian music in the UK having written and recorded hundreds of songs, many of which are well known around the world, including Shine Jesus Shine, Knowing You, The Servant King and Amazing Love.  ''I support the work of Compassion because I believe that sharing what we have with some of the world's poorest children is a vital part of true worship.''

British music producer, MOBO award winner, singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Hampshire, England, Samuel Nwachukwu - who performs under the pseudonym: CalledOut Music, is a symbol of hope and excellence in the 21st century. Embodying years of work and excellence, CalledOut Music has soon become one of the most sought after names gaining international recognition rather quickly.

Tom Elliott believes that he has the best job in the world. He travels throughout the UK and abroad making people laugh, whilst helping them think about life and faith. He has been described by TV Personality Miranda Hart as “such fun” and reaches thousands of people each year at live events in churches, schools and conferences. Tom also appears regularly on radio and TV. An ambassador for Compassion, Tom uses his unique blend of skills to see children released from poverty.

Shell Perris is a wife, mum and songwriter … amongst other things! Her infectious personality and powerful life-stories challenge and inspire the hearts of many. Shell and her husband, Tim (Educational Coach & Trainer) see God at work in their home, locally and nationally. Whether speaking to the masses or having dinner with friends, they have been called by God to simply “do life” with others and to help people and organisations be all that God has created them to be. Tim and Shell live in Warrington, Cheshire, UK and have four children – Harvey, Jenson, Sam and Macaulay.

Andy Hawthorne, OBE is a British evangelist, author and founder of The Message Trust, a Christian mission organisation based in Manchester, UK. Working for over 25 years with young people in the area, his initiatives have been particularly directed at those who are traditionally hard to reach, in prison or from disadvantaged communities. Originally focused in Greater Manchester, The Message now has offices in locations across the UK and internationally in Cape Town, South Africa, Vancouver, Canada and Annaberg-Buchholz, Germany

Following the release of her stunning debut album, ‘Walk With Me’, Sarah Téibo is rapidly becoming a highly sought after gospel artist. The second of four children, Sarah was born in London, but also had the privilege of growing up in Nigeria where she started singing in choirs from the age of ten. It was from this early age that it became evident that she was one to be heard and watched. Through challenging experiences in her early teenage years where her family was faced with eviction and homelessness, Sarah learnt the importance of faith in God and started writing music to express both her fears and her faith. 'Walk With Me' has already given Sarah a MOBO domination for Best Gospel and two JUMP Music Video Awards. 

Dave’s world was turned upside down at just 16 years of age with a devastating cancer diagnosis.  Through months of treatment and the power of prayer Dave is disease free and living life out loud.
In 2007 Dave married the beautiful Sarah.  The Doctors prepared Dave that he may never have children naturally.  Against all Dave & Sarah have four miracle children!
Dave attended music college and became a songwriter and worship leader and now has the honour of being Worship Pastor of Alive Church a multi-site church with 7 locations across the UK.
Dave travels leading worship across the world and is committed to staying in his lane of seeing people healed and saved in times of worship. Dave is highly honoured to be a compassion Artist and loves hearing the stories of children's lives being radically changed through the word of this incredible ministry.

Doug Horley (Duggie Dug Dug) is a popular Christian children’s entertainer/evangelist and songwriter with a national and international ministry working with children and families. His songs have been used by churches across the world! Doug's heart is simply to present the good news of Jesus in a fun and accessible way and to see children (and adults) meet with God powerfully.  "I am thrilled to be an Ambassador for Compassion,” Doug explains. “I am 100 percent behind their vision and the amazing work they do and delighted and excited to be working with them to help improve the lives of children across the world."

Jacqueline is the founder and CEO of Jacqueline Peart International Ministries -  a charity birthed with a mission to ‘transform lives through wholeness'. Jacqueline is the author of a number of books including the book series 'Inspirations for…', a collection of inspirational thoughts and poetry, ‘Will the Real Women of Destiny Please Stand Up?', a study book on the life of Rahab, and the ‘Wholeness Equation’. As well as speaking nationally and internationally, she runs a training and development business, 'Training With Purpose International Ltd' (TWPI), offering high quality training and development solutions to church and secular organisations alike.

Sam Bailey is a worship leader, songwriter, producer and artist. He regularly lead worship at the UK Summer festivals ‘Soul Survivor’ & ‘New Wine’, and has also been the Director of Worship at HTB London. More recently, Sam and his wife, Liv, have returned back to London from a stint in New York City. Sam is signed to ‘Ultra Music Publishing’ as a songwriter and is working increasingly in mainstream spheres as a writer, producer and artist.

Inspired by the likes of Kanye West, Chance The Rapper and Kirk Franklin, Still Shadey is a talented young rap artist from Croydon. Stadey's raw and unique sound has been compared to Stormzy and Kendrick Lamar. Still Shadey's debut album, Croydon Baby, features 17 incredible tracks blending Hip-hop, Grime and Afro swing. 

Still Shadey is thrilled to be working with Compassion to empower young people and give them hope. "Sponsoring Pleasure from Uganda has been a humbling experience," he says. "Every time I write to her and stuff, it's really the grace factor. It reminds me of the grace of God. In the last letter she was telling me how she likes riding her bike, she drew me a picture of her church and friends. 

"I think Compassion is cool because it's kingdom orientated. Sponsoring is one of the best things you an do. Nothing means more for so little. You're making a difference."  

Born on the island of Montserrat, Bazil Meade is the charismatic and multi-talented vocalist, pianist and leader of Europe’s premier vocal ensemble, the London Community Gospel Choir. Moving to England at the age of nine, family circumstances caused him to leave home in his teens. His ambition was to bring the two fundamental aspects of his life together, his faith and music, to inspire and entertain audiences. Having built up a legion of dedicated fans the choir perform regularly to audiences all over the world. Many of the greatest musical artists have called upon the services of Bazil and the choir including Madonna, Sting, Paul McCartney, Brian May, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Luther Vandross and Kylie Minogue. Bazil can turn his hand to any genre and his and the choir’s versatility have made them the first point of call for soulful vocals for high profile concerts and recordings.

Having performed all over the world with thebandwithnoname (Innervation Trust) and now having gone solo, Chip describes himself as a singer/songwriter and performer at heart. He is also a published author of 13 books aimed at connecting young people with the Bible.

Chip is on staff at !Audacious Church in Manchester, and is also a regular presenter on GodTV. He leads the Big Church Kids tent every year at Big Church Festival, and accepts invitations to speak to young people all over the nation on a whole range of Christian topics.

Canadian born Danielle is a Major in The Salvation Army. Outspoken and personable, she is widely appreciated as a speaker, church planter, worship leader and author. She and her husband, Stephen, also have three young children. Danielle often gives up her time to speak on behalf of Compassion.

Jane is an international speaker and author of the book Jane & Red Alert.
She's also the International Co-ordinator of anti-slavery for Serve the City.
She's the founder of a Task Force made up of medical doctors, political leaders, Professors, teachers and survivors of slavery/trafficking.
The task force works in partnership with other anti-slavery organisations that fight against the injustice of slavery/trafficking.
The goal of the task force is to educate and raise awareness in medical schools, schools and businesses.
She is also a first responder for the Home Office/Salvation Army, doing national referrals and assessments of rescued victims of slavery.
Together with Henk Stoorvogel, she wrote a book called 'Red Alert'.
She speaks about modern day slavery/awareness. She wants to be a voice for those without a voice.
She also does events together with a sand artist from the Netherlands called Gert van der Vijver and musicians, to raise awareness through her personal story and the story of victims of trafficking.
Through story telling, music and sand art she wants to open peoples eyes to the world of slavery, poverty and despair, and motivate people to step out and be a voice for the voiceless and hands and feet to help others and to show them there is always hope.
Writing her book Red Alert about human trafficking and forced prostitution she realised that children were also victims.
Psalm 82 calls us to "Be the voice for the voiceless and stand up against injustice'
She is really honoured to be an ambassador for Compassion. She thinks the work they do is valuable and amazing.
She wants to support the work of Compassion as she has seen with her own eyes that it makes a difference to children and families, saving them from poverty, slavery and death.  

Lindsay Bruce is an award-winning writer and journalist with 20 years' experience of telling stories both in the media and in church. A Bible college graduate, she has been a youth pastor, and senior leader of the church she planted with her husband.

A passionate communicator, Lindsay has spoken all over the UK. She is wife to Nathan and mum to Corban and Micah, a proud Scot, an avid social justice campaigner and a local church girl at heart. Her greatest desire is to see people say yes to Jesus and in turn see our nation transformed.

"I'm not someone who will advocate for just any model of support and mission - because I hate the thought of somehow disempowering people through our vain attempts at help. I was challenged some time ago to make sure the things I do to 'help' don't actually keep people in poverty longer.

"When we came across Compassion, we found a way to use the resource and the blessing of our church planting to empower children, and their wider families, alongside the local church - our other biggest passion in life. A decade - and almost as many Compassion-sponsored children later - we've only had cause to celebrate and champion more the incredible movement that is Compassion."

LZ7's sound has been described as a mix of the Beastie Boys and Dizzee Rascal: hook-laden, infectious party hip hop with a message about getting the most out of this God-given life and making right decisions. The vast majority of the band's time is spent in Manchester's high schools but Lindz and the band travel widely, performing around the world to a growing fan base.

Ministry of Music is a Christian ministry which supports churches and other Christian organisations putting on events across the UK. They do this by providing high-quality Christian artists to perform music, lead worship, provide training and give the Christian message at a wide range of events. 

Nancy Goudie heads up the creative and innovative charity ngm. She was born in Ayr, Scotland where at the age of six she had a very powerful and dramatic experience of God. She grew up in a musical family and in her teens was part of a well-established band called Unity which was founded by her husband, Ray and his brother, Derek. As well as singing with the band she also put her qualifications in speech (ALCM) to good use by being one of the narrators in the musicals that Unity produced. Nancy had many opportunities to gain experience in the media as Unity appeared on many television and radio shows and in fact had their own show called ‘Unity Sings’.

Actor and singer, Naomi Scott is a long-term supporter of Compassion's work. Naomi's acting roles have included Princess Jasmine in Disney's 2019 live action Aladdin remake, Kimberly Hart in Power Rangers and Maddy Shannon in the science fiction drama series, Terra Nova. 

Naomi is also an accomplished musician with albums Invisible Division, Promises and Vows.

"When I visited the Compassion project I saw that giving children hope is the heart and culture of Compassion," reflects Naomi. "I saw the impact Compassion has on a child’s life. That, when you sponsor a child, you provide them with medical care, tend to their emotional and social well-being and ensure the chance for a great education. It's very holistic which is something I really love."

We recently caught up with Naomi Scott to hear more about her passion for empowering women and girls worldwide. 

Nathan Tasker is Australia's premier Christian artist with six number ones, and twelve Top 10 radio singles. Based out of Nashville in the United States, Nathan travels and performs extensively in the US, UK and Australia, sharing the hope of Jesus through music. Nathan is a passionate Compassion advocate and, together with his wife Cassie, sponsors Larina, Brigida and Rafael.

Out Of The Ashes are a music and ministry duo with a passion for inspiring churches and communities through their music and lyrics. Described as 'Jazz, R&B and Blues with Gospel Roots', their last track 'The Right Place' was played on Paul Jones’ BBC Radio 2 show. Alongside their toe-tapping eclectic jazz and swing take on Gospel themes, they bring an uplifting message (particularly for older generations) that "God ain't done with you yet!" They'll move and empower you and leave you feeling more energised about your faith and life than ever before!  

'Having visited the work of Compassion, I admire the perseverance and commitment they have to actively seeing a difference in the lives of many children around the world, something that is at the heart of XLP's passion. It is a privilege in the work of XLP to work alongside young people in London from all over the world, and I am greatly looking forward to the potential there is with Compassion, to see holistic transformation in what can often be very challenging situations.'' Patrick Regan.

Comedian, actor and writer Paul Kerensa has established himself as one of the country’s best and brightest talents in recent years, including writing for BBC hits Not Going Out and After You’ve Gone.

Pyramid Park is the project name of Cambridge-based songwriter Pete McAllen. Pyramid Park write catchy alternative/indie pop songs that help the listener worship. 

“These songs are written to be sung as much in a great crowd as they are alone in your bedroom. My desire is that they inspire reflection and bold prayer,” says Pete McAllen. 

Pete is currently on staff at Cambridge Community Church (C3) where he serves as Worship Pastor. For the last two years he has led worship at One Event and was previously part of the worship team at Hillsong London.