David Nasmith

David Nasmith was the founder of what is often referred to as The City Mission Movement. He lived from 1799 until 1839. During his lifetime he founded many Christian societies in the UK, the US and in Europe.

"His lifework was known for being instrumental in welding the various denominations together for useful purposes.''
"Unlike other reformers, no church or college has been named after Nasmith. It would be preposterous that an image of him would be enshrined on a church window. No church doctrine or point of theology is attributed to him. What can be found all over the world, is the fruit of his vision in the form of City Missions, practical religion outside the walls of the church' (Quotations from Practical Religion - A booklet on David Nasmith - AGRM 1045 Swift, N Kansas City. MO 64116. With permission)

Nasmith strongly believed that Christians should have a very visible presence in their local communities, sharing the practical message of the faith as well as the spiritual. The societies he founded were intended to fill the gaps left in the work of  the established churches. Nasmith began the Glasgow City Mission in 1826. It was the first interdenominational society aimed at taking the gospel of Jesus Christ to all its citizens, especially the poor. The work involved evangelism, literature distribution, medical care, basic education, public health schemes, advocacy at court, and prison visitation.

The British Association of City Missions

The BACM networks over 20 Missions in Britain. Some are on a very large scale, such as London City Mission. Others are much more modest in size but have great impact on the lives of the people they work with. Today, the work of city missions around Britain reflects the original motivation of David Nasmith: in every region Christians from a variety of denominations can be found working together to bring the gospel to our cities, both in word and in deed. Some three-quarters of the world's population live in cities and these Missions are a great example of the Love of God being put into practical action.