The Churches Together in Bridlington and District's Walk of Witness 2010 is to take the form of a Passion Play, on Good Friday 2nd April.
Preparations for the Passion Play are well underway and the next meeting and first rehearsal will be held at Emmanuel Church at 7pm on Friday 8th January 2010.
Every one is welcome to join in and particularly if you normally participate in the Walk of Witness. Don't miss this great opportunity to contribute to this very special event!
The Passion Play will start at approximately 10.45am at Holy Trinity Church on Good Friday. It will process to the seafront at Donkey Bridge and then on to Leisure World. We will then move on to Garrison Square and through the town centre to Ebor Flats gardens and the Spa. The final Crucifixion scene will occur on the sands of South Beach. At each of these locations actors and followers of the Passion will re-enact scenes from the final days of Jesus' life.
We wish to recruit volunteers to join us - to act, sing, dance or to follow as part of the crowd. Why not dress up the family in the robes of the day? Advice will be given on simple costumes but bedspreads and tea towels work wonders! Are you a budding Jesus or one of his disciples? Men, women and children are welcome to join the group as actors or followers under the Directorship of Mark Newsum from the Spotlight Theatre.
Please come along and join us at Emmanuel Church at 7pm on Friday 8th January 2010. Bring along all the family and help make this Passion Play a special event and unique Easter celebration for our town.
Please contact Mark Newsum on marknewsum@btinternet.com or Dr Anthony Clarke at Practice 3, The Medical Centre, Bridlington for more information.
Thursday 17 December 2009
Monday 14 December 2009
New Website Launched by Archbishop of York
Acts 435
A revolutionary new website is been piloted in the Diocese of York. Acts 435 has been launched by the Archbishop of York, and it allows people to give money directly to others:
www.acts435.com
When so many people need so much help, giving can sometimes feel hit and miss, and choosing between charities can be hard. Acts435 puts people who can give in touch with people who are in need with the Church as the physical, face-to-face forum to enable virtual, online giving.
Acts 435 was inspired by the works of the early church, as described in the Acts 4:32 to 4:35. The early disciples of the risen Christ shared their possessions, and passed money to the apostles to give to anyone who had need. 100% of what is donated via Acts435 goes directly to those in need.
We hope that you will support Acts435, and help spread the word about the website, which you can find here: www.acts435.com. We need people to be advocates and donors - if you know of someone who might want to help in this way, please tell them about the website. If you know of someone who needs help, please tell them about the idea, and help them get in touch with an advocate.
A revolutionary new website is been piloted in the Diocese of York. Acts 435 has been launched by the Archbishop of York, and it allows people to give money directly to others:
www.acts435.com
When so many people need so much help, giving can sometimes feel hit and miss, and choosing between charities can be hard. Acts435 puts people who can give in touch with people who are in need with the Church as the physical, face-to-face forum to enable virtual, online giving.
Acts 435 was inspired by the works of the early church, as described in the Acts 4:32 to 4:35. The early disciples of the risen Christ shared their possessions, and passed money to the apostles to give to anyone who had need. 100% of what is donated via Acts435 goes directly to those in need.
We hope that you will support Acts435, and help spread the word about the website, which you can find here: www.acts435.com. We need people to be advocates and donors - if you know of someone who might want to help in this way, please tell them about the website. If you know of someone who needs help, please tell them about the idea, and help them get in touch with an advocate.
Tuesday 1 December 2009
Bridlington Churches Together
The following events are coming up for bridlington Chruches Together...
1 – 24 December
Live Advent Calendar – Southshore (organised by Emmanuel Church) from 6pm
Thursday/Friday 4 & 5 December
Pantomime – Emmanuel – ‘Aladdin A Manger’ – 7pm
(sorry unsure of ticket prices or availability – please contact Emmanuel for full details)
Saturday 5 December
Carlton Main Brass Band & Priory Choir at the Priory – 7pm £10 per ticket which includes refreshments
Sunday 6 December
Passion Play rehearsal – Emmanuel Church 2pm
More men needed for roles (some speaking parts)
Tuesday 8 December
Passion Play planning meeting – Emmanuel Church – 7.30pm
Thursday 10 December
‘Christmas Calm’ – Prayer and Reflection - 10am – 2pm
Emmanuel Church
Sunday 13 December
Children’s Concert – 2pm at the Priory – followed by procession to the Dickensian Festival – Old Town
Wednesday 16 December
Shoppers Carol Service – The Salvation Army – 1pm
Our shop is open until 11.30am and the café open until the start of the Carol Service
Saturday 19 December
Carol singing in King Street – Between 12 noon & 2pm - In aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind
1 – 24 December
Live Advent Calendar – Southshore (organised by Emmanuel Church) from 6pm
Thursday/Friday 4 & 5 December
Pantomime – Emmanuel – ‘Aladdin A Manger’ – 7pm
(sorry unsure of ticket prices or availability – please contact Emmanuel for full details)
Saturday 5 December
Carlton Main Brass Band & Priory Choir at the Priory – 7pm £10 per ticket which includes refreshments
Sunday 6 December
Passion Play rehearsal – Emmanuel Church 2pm
More men needed for roles (some speaking parts)
Tuesday 8 December
Passion Play planning meeting – Emmanuel Church – 7.30pm
Thursday 10 December
‘Christmas Calm’ – Prayer and Reflection - 10am – 2pm
Emmanuel Church
Sunday 13 December
Children’s Concert – 2pm at the Priory – followed by procession to the Dickensian Festival – Old Town
Wednesday 16 December
Shoppers Carol Service – The Salvation Army – 1pm
Our shop is open until 11.30am and the café open until the start of the Carol Service
Saturday 19 December
Carol singing in King Street – Between 12 noon & 2pm - In aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind
Friday 20 November 2009
The Vicar writes...
The Vicar writes...
Dear All,
What will be important to you on the day you die? What memories will you treasure and hold to your heart as important and significant? Who on that day will prove to be worthy of your trust? The first Christmas most in Bethlehem got it wrong. They passed the important by whilst they worked towards the unimportant. The innkeeper turns Mary away, the crowd of Bethlehem are unaware of the angelic hosts in the heavens as Jesus is born…God Himself had come to earth as a human baby born of Mary.
The Vicar writes...
Dear All,
I am writing a second letter which is not looking at Christmas, but rather into next year. In this letter I have outlined the Aims you will find in summary form on the front page of Network News. I hope you will look at each aim, pause and pray over it, and give God permission to lead you in them.
The Aims explained...
To develop a culture of honour:
We feel God is calling us to a new emphasis in the way we relate to each other. The discipleship course is helping us and we expect to see more honouring of one another and sensitivity to the calling /anointing each one has as we learn to bear the glory of God amongst us.
This will involve holding a new marriage courses and parenting courses Next year we want to encourage families, helping parents to be secure in their parenting and in their marriages. We hope to introduce more parenting courses next year.
Satan shows his hand more (according to I Corinthians 7) when there is no proper marriage relationship. We have found in the last few years Satan has sought to wreck lives when those who are married are not in an active married relationship for whatever reason. Whilst we continue to value widows, divorcees, in our church (and we are looking for those who have been through these life events who could advise others, because we want to run a course for this too!) , we also want to help those who are married. Jim & Rosemary Gillespie will be running a new marriage course next year.
To develop our calling as a beacon to the region: To hold a major Christian conference in Bridlington October 7-9th
We have for many years felt called to be a resource church, and whilst we are a church that is known throughout the Uk, few actually know the blessing God is bringing here. We feel the time has come no longer to be a secret treasure and to remove the light from under “the bushel” (Matthew 5:15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. ) One of the ways we hope to be able to impart blessing to people outside Bridlington is as they visit for this conference. It is also a way we can start to play our part within the tourism of the town. Our hope is that 1000 delegates will come to Bridlington and this is the start of an annual conference. The theme is around God’s presence changing a nation.
To develop our own Guidance resource to run within our learning centre
As a guidance centre we can operate like the old careers service
To develop another CCS shop
We are actively looking at a Community shop which can continue to be an outlet for furniture store ( when Springfield Avenue is knocked down in the regeneration of Bridlington ) and can also have outlets for other projects. If any would like to invest to help bring this about, see Andy Jefferson.
To prepare to build a new entrance to the church in 2011
We want to provide a place of welcome and information at the entrance to our site. We as a church saw and approved plans last year which we have not implemented because we have no funds to do so. We plan to start a fund for a new entrance and hope to have enough by the summer to consider applying for faculty and planning , getting the costings from builders, and getting the work done. The plans will be on display in the forecourt in January
To develop further ways of welcoming those linked to us to engage with Jesus. To develop effective work with the young adults and teenagers on multi levels
We long for everyone who accesses our church site to also have an opportunity to find out about Jesus. We want to be able to form an evangelistic oversight/action team so that good strategies emerge and many are blessed
To foster the current network churches and to create space to deepen spiritual life in social networks through different types of small groups, prayer meetings, and conferences
We have already diverse groups ranging from bible study to social/pastoral groups. We have groups for the elderly and groups for the young around interest groups We will increase these, and are dependant on those who have benefited from small groups being willing to lead or host new ones. We would like to have groups around choirs, bible study groups led by under 20s, pub discussion groups, chill out groups where you share your story and pray together. Further details from Jonathan as groups cannot form unless there is declared interest and willingness to try it expressed
To meet all our financial obligations
We think we will achieve this. We are praying that everyone allows God to guide us in our giving as we contribute to the collection every week
To partner with other churches in national/ regional events which encourage a platform for revival: Yorkshire prayer conference
Many of us may not be aware that our involvement in the Yorkshire Prayer conference has now seeded similar works in Derby, Lincoln ,Lancashire and Cumbria and is as a result bringing into the north of England a new wave of prayer which is part of the move of God to bless this nation. We are continuing our connection, primarily through Jonathan who is the director for the East Riding and on the central committee for the prayer conference.
In addition Jonathan and Andy Hall are actively networking with leaders in the UK to foster initiatives for revival
To sell 100 Springboard 2010 shares to help foster revival through us to the nation
We issue Springboard shares to those who want to join with us in part of our mission. Each Springboard 2010 share costs £5 per month and you can buy as many shares as you want. These will go to help promote revival in the nation through us as a network.
To Develop Church Planting Strategies
We would like to explore ways in which we can grow the Kingdom beyond Bridlington and investigate Church planting strategies for future growth
Jonathan
I am writing a second letter which is not looking at Christmas, but rather into next year. In this letter I have outlined the Aims you will find in summary form on the front page of Network News. I hope you will look at each aim, pause and pray over it, and give God permission to lead you in them.
The Aims explained...
To develop a culture of honour:
We feel God is calling us to a new emphasis in the way we relate to each other. The discipleship course is helping us and we expect to see more honouring of one another and sensitivity to the calling /anointing each one has as we learn to bear the glory of God amongst us.
This will involve holding a new marriage courses and parenting courses Next year we want to encourage families, helping parents to be secure in their parenting and in their marriages. We hope to introduce more parenting courses next year.
Satan shows his hand more (according to I Corinthians 7) when there is no proper marriage relationship. We have found in the last few years Satan has sought to wreck lives when those who are married are not in an active married relationship for whatever reason. Whilst we continue to value widows, divorcees, in our church (and we are looking for those who have been through these life events who could advise others, because we want to run a course for this too!) , we also want to help those who are married. Jim & Rosemary Gillespie will be running a new marriage course next year.
To develop our calling as a beacon to the region: To hold a major Christian conference in Bridlington October 7-9th
We have for many years felt called to be a resource church, and whilst we are a church that is known throughout the Uk, few actually know the blessing God is bringing here. We feel the time has come no longer to be a secret treasure and to remove the light from under “the bushel” (Matthew 5:15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. ) One of the ways we hope to be able to impart blessing to people outside Bridlington is as they visit for this conference. It is also a way we can start to play our part within the tourism of the town. Our hope is that 1000 delegates will come to Bridlington and this is the start of an annual conference. The theme is around God’s presence changing a nation.
To develop our own Guidance resource to run within our learning centre
As a guidance centre we can operate like the old careers service
To develop another CCS shop
We are actively looking at a Community shop which can continue to be an outlet for furniture store ( when Springfield Avenue is knocked down in the regeneration of Bridlington ) and can also have outlets for other projects. If any would like to invest to help bring this about, see Andy Jefferson.
To prepare to build a new entrance to the church in 2011
We want to provide a place of welcome and information at the entrance to our site. We as a church saw and approved plans last year which we have not implemented because we have no funds to do so. We plan to start a fund for a new entrance and hope to have enough by the summer to consider applying for faculty and planning , getting the costings from builders, and getting the work done. The plans will be on display in the forecourt in January
To develop further ways of welcoming those linked to us to engage with Jesus. To develop effective work with the young adults and teenagers on multi levels
We long for everyone who accesses our church site to also have an opportunity to find out about Jesus. We want to be able to form an evangelistic oversight/action team so that good strategies emerge and many are blessed
To foster the current network churches and to create space to deepen spiritual life in social networks through different types of small groups, prayer meetings, and conferences
We have already diverse groups ranging from bible study to social/pastoral groups. We have groups for the elderly and groups for the young around interest groups We will increase these, and are dependant on those who have benefited from small groups being willing to lead or host new ones. We would like to have groups around choirs, bible study groups led by under 20s, pub discussion groups, chill out groups where you share your story and pray together. Further details from Jonathan as groups cannot form unless there is declared interest and willingness to try it expressed
To meet all our financial obligations
We think we will achieve this. We are praying that everyone allows God to guide us in our giving as we contribute to the collection every week
To partner with other churches in national/ regional events which encourage a platform for revival: Yorkshire prayer conference
Many of us may not be aware that our involvement in the Yorkshire Prayer conference has now seeded similar works in Derby, Lincoln ,Lancashire and Cumbria and is as a result bringing into the north of England a new wave of prayer which is part of the move of God to bless this nation. We are continuing our connection, primarily through Jonathan who is the director for the East Riding and on the central committee for the prayer conference.
In addition Jonathan and Andy Hall are actively networking with leaders in the UK to foster initiatives for revival
To sell 100 Springboard 2010 shares to help foster revival through us to the nation
We issue Springboard shares to those who want to join with us in part of our mission. Each Springboard 2010 share costs £5 per month and you can buy as many shares as you want. These will go to help promote revival in the nation through us as a network.
To Develop Church Planting Strategies
We would like to explore ways in which we can grow the Kingdom beyond Bridlington and investigate Church planting strategies for future growth
Jonathan
Thursday 19 November 2009
Martongate Community Church
At Martongate we have just celebrated our first five years and the this reading from Isaiah was given to Angela on the morning of our very first service.
Isaiah 41 v 10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand
At a time of so much uncertainty and opposition we were afraid in our natural state but God was/is calling us in a supernatural way, He has strengthened us He has helped us and He has led us victorious in His right hand throughout the disappointments, throughout the criticism, throughout the opposition.
It also says in Isaiah Ch 42 v 16
I will lead blind Israel down a new path, guiding them along an unfamiliar way. I will make the darkness bright before them and smooth out the road ahead of them.
Yes I will indeed do these things; I will not forsake them
It certainly was a new path we were venturing along as it was the first network church of Christ Church. As a house group, meeting at Tom and Beryl’s, we had captured the vision which Jonathan had laid before us, we had to step into that vision having faith in the Lord and also a burning desire in our hearts to launch a platform to bring the Love of Jesus into people’s lives in the martongate area, also fulfilling a dream of Len and Ann Straker which they had hoped for many years earlier.
We were like blind Israel going down a new path, the territory and terrain was so unfamiliar to us all, but thoughout all our mistakes, thoughout all the opposition, those 15 members of the initial house group ‘stuck at it’ they knew that the Lord was with us, the support we received from the Bishop of Hull, The Archdeacon, the Rural Dean and the PCC brought the pervading darkness into light. “I will make the darkness bright before them”.
As Andy Hall spoke about the new wells bring opposition Genesis ch 26 v 20 but the herdsmen of Gerar quarrelled with Issac’s herdsmen and said “The water is ours”. Wells are blocked by relational conflict, All churches should drink from the same well, but when the quarrelling still exists despite many efforts to resolve the conflict we have to move on. v22 He moved on from there and dug another well and no one quarrelled over it . The herdsmen moved on geographically, but when Jesus came the springs of living water flow for all to drink, wherever they are, the early church multiplied at an extraordinary pace when the Gospel of Jesus Christ was preached, that is our only focus. “For I am your God”
The Lord has indeed strengthened us for that first 15 is now 50/60, All our ministries have flourished, Mums and Tots, Senior Citizens, Craft Fayres, House groups, Worship, Preaching, Refreshments, Data Projection and especially in the area of administration
We have also been blessed by many from the Christ Church network who have supported the music and preaching we are so grateful.
So what of the next five years
Isaiah 41 v 10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand
This isn’t a message for the past or the here and now it is a message for God’s Church here at Martongate, it is foundational. The well is dug the future is secure Genesis ch 26 “Now the Lord has given us room and we will flourish in the land”
Because of Jonathans vision and direction, and the willingness and obedience of all concerned we have a land where the Lord can flourish.
God Bless you all
Roger
On the 28th November we celebrated our 5th Anniversary and we would like to thank all of the people who have supported us over the years, especially those who have supported us with music; Craft Fayres; Mums & Tots etc.
The Mums and Tots will meet on the following dates at Bridlington North Library 9.15 to 11.45 a.m. This is a Social get together for Mums, with soft play for pre-school children.
11th December 2009
8th and 22nd January 2010
12th and 26th February 2010
12th and 26th March 2010
The Signpost Club meets every 4th Friday of the month at Bridlington North Library from 1.30 p.m. to 3 p.m. All Senior Citizens are welcome to call in to reminisce, chat or seek help. Refreshments are available.
On the 28th November we celebrated our 5th Anniversary and we would like to thank all of the people who have supported us over the years, especially those who have supported us with music; Craft Fayres; Mums & Tots etc.
The Mums and Tots will meet on the following dates at Bridlington North Library 9.15 to 11.45 a.m. This is a Social get together for Mums, with soft play for pre-school children.
11th December 2009
8th and 22nd January 2010
12th and 26th February 2010
12th and 26th March 2010
The Signpost Club meets every 4th Friday of the month at Bridlington North Library from 1.30 p.m. to 3 p.m. All Senior Citizens are welcome to call in to reminisce, chat or seek help. Refreshments are available.
Equipped To Live
Living Life in Today’s World
“Transformation not just information”
Equipped to live is open to anyone. It is designed to help us live life in today’s difficult world where there are so many choices and seemingly few pointers for life. We think this course will be relevant to everyone who wishes to find the keys for living and making the most of life.
Next Session Saturday 5th December 9.30am to 4.00pm
Hearing Gods Voice
What does God sound like, how and why does He speak to me?
New Year Session Saturday 9th January 9.30am to 4.00pm
Overcoming Strongholds in my life
We all have areas we know we could improve in Sometimes a new years resolution is not enough. How do we identify negative strongholds in our thoughts and habits and how do we get free of them?
The cost of each discipleship meeting is £15. If you cannot afford this come along and pay what you can afford
Other Dates: Saturday 6th February & 6th March
Time: 9.30am to 4.00pm
Wednesday 18 November 2009
Behold I Stand at The Door and Knock
On every breath
Behold I stand at the door and knock
When the floor is knee deep
In discarded wrapping paper
And the new books are open at page one
And the new toys are already broken
Behold I stand at the door and knock
When the family is squashed
Elbow to Elbow
Around the table
And furious rush for food is over
And the only word that can describe the feeling
Is full
Behold I stand at the door and knock
And when Christmas is over
And when the television silent
For the first time in two days
And who sent which card to whom
Is forgotten until next year
Behold I stand at the door and knock
And when the nation has finished celebrating
Christmas without Christ
A birthday without a birth
The coming of a Kingdom
Without a King
Forgotten
Despised
Rejected
Crucified
Behold I stand at the door and knock
Tuesday 17 November 2009
Praise God for Free Speech Victory
Dear Friends and Supporters
We are writing with wonderful news of deliverance from the pernicious attempt by the Government last night (11th November) to remove Lord Waddington’s free speech shield from the face of the laws of this land.
We are writing with wonderful news of deliverance from the pernicious attempt by the Government last night (11th November) to remove Lord Waddington’s free speech shield from the face of the laws of this land.
Passion Play - Actors and Cast Members Still Needed
If interested please attend
Emmanuel Church
Sunday 6th December at 2 pm or
Friday 8th January at 7pm
Rehearsals for speaking parts will take place on Fridays, commencing 8th January, 7-9pm, at Emmanuel Church. Other cast members and musicians will join the rehearsals later. Children are very welcome to participate with other family members who are able to supervise. We wish to be as inclusive as possible of all who want to participate irrespective of age.
Emmanuel Church
Sunday 6th December at 2 pm or
Friday 8th January at 7pm
Rehearsals for speaking parts will take place on Fridays, commencing 8th January, 7-9pm, at Emmanuel Church. Other cast members and musicians will join the rehearsals later. Children are very welcome to participate with other family members who are able to supervise. We wish to be as inclusive as possible of all who want to participate irrespective of age.
This is a joint Churches Together and Community initiative which has Council and Police approval.
For further information please contact Dr Anthony Clarke, Practice 3, The Medical Centre or 01262 404100/ 400992
Monday 16 November 2009
My Alpha Story
"I had a wonderful time on the Alpha course. It's a great opportunity to meet new people, ask questions and learn about the Christian faith. Although the alpha course is designed primarily for non-churchgoers, it is open to everyone; whatever your background, belief or denomination may be, you will be made more than welcome!
“
Alpha makes Christianity relevant to modern life and gives people the chance to explore and discover the faith in an informal, friendly environment. No pressure is applied by anyone to become Christian or to join the Church, though many people do find it to be a transforming experience - discovering the true meaning & purpose of life in the person of Jesus.
I was already a church-goer when I joined Alpha but I found that it was still a transforming experience for me. It helped my faith to come alive and gave me Christian companionship.
All of these quotes are from guests who have taken the Alpha Course.
"When I first heard about the Alpha course I was at a stage when I was searching for something 'out there'. I really needed to ask questions and not feel like I was getting a hard-sell pitched at me. Now I perceive things differently and just feel so at peace. I have also met a wonderful bunch of new friends on the course."
"The first evening surprised me completely. During the first evening, there were no prayers or heavy preaching. We were just given the opportunity to listen to the talk and then discuss anything we wanted. I chose to ask some challenging and confrontational questions, but they were welcomed, and I was made to feel valued and appreciated. I enjoyed the evening so much that I couldn't wait to go back the following week..." “Before I had always thought you had to do good to be a Christian, and I knew I was not good enough…But the people in Alpha…helped smash that idea…no one is better than the next.”
"I didn’t expect the warm welcome I received, the interesting discussions or the lack of pressure to speak in the small groups that followed. I found that I could express any doubts about Christianity, and that my opinions would be respected. If I had an issue with something, I had a forum to voice it with no need to apologize."
"Over the years, church became more of a social club… I’m still figuring it out. I was nervous the first week but was placed at a table with other young people, many of whom were going through the same stuff I was. But now God is a daily part of my life. The friends from Alpha have become some of the closest friends I’ve ever had."
“For the first time in my 30+ years I realized that God wasn’t something far away.” “I feel a true peace about my life. Life is still difficult as a single mother, yet I know that Jesus is right there with me. I always felt that there was something missing and now that Jesus is in my life I know that it was knowing Him.”
“I realized that even though I had a limited religious background I was very naïve about Christianity. I was challenged by the thought of where my life was headed…why is it so empty? Even though I had a great wife and good kids something was missing.”
“I have come to the realization that one cannot depend on other people in life – I can only depend on the Lord. I have been released of the dependence of so much depression medicine. Alpha helped me find focus and centre in life.”
If you would like to register on the Alpha Course which starts on Monday 11th January 2010 at 7.00pm Christ Church Bridlington, please contact us on
01262 404100
“
Alpha makes Christianity relevant to modern life and gives people the chance to explore and discover the faith in an informal, friendly environment. No pressure is applied by anyone to become Christian or to join the Church, though many people do find it to be a transforming experience - discovering the true meaning & purpose of life in the person of Jesus.
I was already a church-goer when I joined Alpha but I found that it was still a transforming experience for me. It helped my faith to come alive and gave me Christian companionship.
All of these quotes are from guests who have taken the Alpha Course.
"When I first heard about the Alpha course I was at a stage when I was searching for something 'out there'. I really needed to ask questions and not feel like I was getting a hard-sell pitched at me. Now I perceive things differently and just feel so at peace. I have also met a wonderful bunch of new friends on the course."
"The first evening surprised me completely. During the first evening, there were no prayers or heavy preaching. We were just given the opportunity to listen to the talk and then discuss anything we wanted. I chose to ask some challenging and confrontational questions, but they were welcomed, and I was made to feel valued and appreciated. I enjoyed the evening so much that I couldn't wait to go back the following week..." “Before I had always thought you had to do good to be a Christian, and I knew I was not good enough…But the people in Alpha…helped smash that idea…no one is better than the next.”
"I didn’t expect the warm welcome I received, the interesting discussions or the lack of pressure to speak in the small groups that followed. I found that I could express any doubts about Christianity, and that my opinions would be respected. If I had an issue with something, I had a forum to voice it with no need to apologize."
"Over the years, church became more of a social club… I’m still figuring it out. I was nervous the first week but was placed at a table with other young people, many of whom were going through the same stuff I was. But now God is a daily part of my life. The friends from Alpha have become some of the closest friends I’ve ever had."
“For the first time in my 30+ years I realized that God wasn’t something far away.” “I feel a true peace about my life. Life is still difficult as a single mother, yet I know that Jesus is right there with me. I always felt that there was something missing and now that Jesus is in my life I know that it was knowing Him.”
“I realized that even though I had a limited religious background I was very naïve about Christianity. I was challenged by the thought of where my life was headed…why is it so empty? Even though I had a great wife and good kids something was missing.”
“I have come to the realization that one cannot depend on other people in life – I can only depend on the Lord. I have been released of the dependence of so much depression medicine. Alpha helped me find focus and centre in life.”
If you would like to register on the Alpha Course which starts on Monday 11th January 2010 at 7.00pm Christ Church Bridlington, please contact us on
01262 404100
The Truth We Can Trust
What is at the heart of Christmas?
In the words of C.S Lewis, at Christmas we remember the ‘central event in the history of the earth — the very thing the whole story has been about’
The point of Christmas is Jesus Christ. At Christmas we celebrate the birthday of the most important person who has ever lived. He is the centrepiece of our civilisation.
Jesus is ‘THE TRUTH WE CAN TRUST’
In the words of C.S Lewis, at Christmas we remember the ‘central event in the history of the earth — the very thing the whole story has been about’
The point of Christmas is Jesus Christ. At Christmas we celebrate the birthday of the most important person who has ever lived. He is the centrepiece of our civilisation.
Jesus is ‘THE TRUTH WE CAN TRUST’
Saturday 14 November 2009
Alpha Starting Again
Alpha Starts again on Monday 11th January at 7pm in the Church Hall
Over 2 million people in the UK including and 11 million worldwide have now attended an Alpha course, an opportunity to explore the meaning of life, running in tens of thousands of churches of all denominations across the world.
Alpha is an opportunity for anyone to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed setting over ten thought-provoking weekly sessions, with an additional "Away day".
Revd Jonathan Couper says:
"We are now offering two Alpha courses a year and would like to invite you to come along and enjoy this exploration of the basics of the Christian faith!
There’s good company and an evening meal provided, so you can meet and get to know other course members.
The Alpha Course gives you an opportunity to ask those questions that you have always wanted to ask in a non-threatening environment
So many of the people who have been on the course have said ,"I wish I had done the course earlier in my life, it has given me a new understanding of why I am here on earth"."
Course Content
The talks each week cover the following topics, which people are then free to discuss in the small groups afterwards:
Week 1 Who is Jesus?
Week 2 Why did Jesus Die?
Week 3 How can we have Faith?
Week 4 Why and how do I Pray?
Week 5 Why and how should I read the Bible?
Week 6 How does God Guide us?
Week 7 How can I Resist Evil?
Week 8 Why and how should I tell Others?
Week 9 Does God Heal Today?
Week 10 What about the Church?
There's also a Day Away which covers:
Who is the Holy Spirit?
What does the Holy Spirit do?
How can I be Filled with the Holy Spirit?
How can I Make the Most of the Rest of my Life?
To register
01262 404100
Or pick up a registration form at Key Centre Reception or back of church, complete and return to the Key Centre Reception
Over 2 million people in the UK including and 11 million worldwide have now attended an Alpha course, an opportunity to explore the meaning of life, running in tens of thousands of churches of all denominations across the world.
Alpha is an opportunity for anyone to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed setting over ten thought-provoking weekly sessions, with an additional "Away day".
Revd Jonathan Couper says:
"We are now offering two Alpha courses a year and would like to invite you to come along and enjoy this exploration of the basics of the Christian faith!
There’s good company and an evening meal provided, so you can meet and get to know other course members.
The Alpha Course gives you an opportunity to ask those questions that you have always wanted to ask in a non-threatening environment
So many of the people who have been on the course have said ,"I wish I had done the course earlier in my life, it has given me a new understanding of why I am here on earth"."
Course Content
The talks each week cover the following topics, which people are then free to discuss in the small groups afterwards:
Week 1 Who is Jesus?
Week 2 Why did Jesus Die?
Week 3 How can we have Faith?
Week 4 Why and how do I Pray?
Week 5 Why and how should I read the Bible?
Week 6 How does God Guide us?
Week 7 How can I Resist Evil?
Week 8 Why and how should I tell Others?
Week 9 Does God Heal Today?
Week 10 What about the Church?
There's also a Day Away which covers:
Who is the Holy Spirit?
What does the Holy Spirit do?
How can I be Filled with the Holy Spirit?
How can I Make the Most of the Rest of my Life?
To register
01262 404100
Or pick up a registration form at Key Centre Reception or back of church, complete and return to the Key Centre Reception
Friday 13 November 2009
The New Marrriage Course Launch
For all married couples ….. a date for your diary.
Marriage Course Valentines Dinner
at Christ Church
Friday February 12th 2010 . 7pm
A free 3 course meal ( donations to Marriage Course) : bring a bottle!
A great opportunity for a special night out, and to hear about the updated Marriage Course that will be running at Christ Church in May 2010. Please prayerfully consider coming to this, and make a date with your spouse. Also, use the opportunity to invite friends to introduce them to the Marriage Course.
Places for Marriage Course Dinner can be reserved by getting a (free) ticket, available from the Key Centre from Jan 1st, or by completing a booking form at the Key Centre
Thursday 12 November 2009
Christmas Message from the Archbishop of York
Christmas is a time of sharing the wonder of God who pitched his "fleshly-tent" among us in the person of Jesus of Nazareth, born of a woman - very flesh of our flesh, very God of very God. So Christmas should be a time for thanksgiving, generous hospitality and togetherness. A time for unmerited favour.
News In Brief
Music Festival: Thank you to everyone involved
A huge thank you to all those who supported and contributed to the East Coast Christian Music Festival. A big thank you to Paul Lowe for the vision and the hard work behind the scenes
Jonathan
Thank you for Romania boxes (340 boxes this year.) Thanks also to John Luty for taking them out with Val Taylor
Jonathan
New Wine Women’s Day
6 March 2010
International Conference Centre,
Harrogate
With Deborah Reed (Bethel Church California)
For info and to book:
www.new-wine.org/women
Pre-School Nativity
at Christ Church
Monday 14th Dec
10.30am
Everyone Welcome!
I would just like to say….
Thank you to all those who sponsored me and supported me in prayer while doing The Great North Run. I achieved my goal (with a little help from my friends) by completing it in four hours. The charity I as raising money for was Marie Curie Cancer Care. If you sponsored me, would it be possible to have it handed in as soon as you can please.
Whether you were a fast or slow runner, they all encouraged each other. It didn’t matter what background they had or what pace you were doing. We were all going the same way, with the same thing in mind. The route was like a roller coaster - it had its ups and downs.
The three times I have done the half marathon, it doesn’t get any easier. Each of the occasions God has used me in many ways. One of which to come side by side and getting down to the person’s level, meeting them as they struggle, but we get over the finish line with aching limbs, emotional but with elation.
Many Thanks & Blessings
Fay Reddington
Confirmation & The Alpha Course
Alpha is a great way to explore the Christian faith and a very helpful way to make new friends at Christ Church. If you are thinking about being confirmed and have not done Alpha, this is a good time to do the course as confirmation happens at Christ Church in the early summer.
The course will start with a launch supper at 7.00pm on Monday 11th January 2010 Please call 01262 404100 for details. To book a place on the course pick up a registration form available at the back of church today or from Reception.
Big Thanks for Supporting the Romania Shoe Box Appeal
Thank-you to everyone who has filled shoeboxes with gifts for Romania. Hundreds of families will have great joy receiving a Christmas shoebox.
Thanks again
Sue Graily
TODZ and FURNITURE STORE
Don’t forget the Furniture Store and Todz shop if you are wanting household things or children’s clothing or toys. We accept donations too!
Thanks, Bev, Gren and Lesley
Equipped To Live (ETL) -
Living Life in Today’s World
“Transformation not just information”
Equipped to live is open to anyone. It is designed to help us live life in today’s difficult world where there are so many choices and seemingly few pointers for life. We think this course will be relevant to everyone who wishes to find the keys for living and making the most of life.
Next Session Saturday 9th January 9.30am to 4.00pm
Overcoming Strongholds in my life
We all have areas we know we could improve in Sometimes a new years resolution is not enough. How do we identify negative strongholds in our thoughts and habits and how do we get free of them?
The cost of each discipleship meeting is £15. If you cannot afford this come along and pay what you can afford
Dates: Saturday 9th January, 6th February, 6th March
Time: 9.30am to 4.00pm
Christmas Services in the Network - Who can you bring?
All the Christmas services we run over Christmas is a great opportunity for you to bring along someone who does not normally attend church throughout the rest of the year. Have a look at all our Christmas services throughout the Network on the back page.
Notice of Revision of Electoral Roll for Christ Church Parish
The electoral roll may be just a piece of paper, but it helps us know who
are part of this church and who are just visitors.
It is the formal membership list of the church. All members of the Network should be on an electoral roll (either Christ Church or West Hill). If you would like your name added to the Christ Church Parish roll please complete an ‘Electoral Roll 2010 Application Form’ available at the back of church or from reception and please leave in Reception on completion by 31st January 2010
The new roll will be displayed in the church for several weeks during February 2010 prior to the PCC Annual General Meeting which will be held on Tuesday 16th March 2010 at 7.30pm
BONFIRE
The community bonfire on the 6th November was a great success with well over 200 people attending, enjoying a free BBQ and good fellowship.
It was thrilling to see so many young families enjoying an evening out on the Church site.
A big thank you to everyone who helped in the organising and serving on the evening, you did a great job.
Jeff
Womens' Weekly
Dec 8th Father Michael Chaffey
Dec 15th Christmas Lunch Outing
Closed until new year—date to be arranged
House of Prayer
Tue 1st Dec Revival Christina Denton
Wed 2nd Dec Kingfisher Trust Dorothy Woodley
Thu 3rd Dec The Nations Mike & Shirley Green
Tue 8th Dec Pre-School Dinah Rogers
Wed 9th Dec Prayers Joy Hensman
Thu 10th Dec Prayers Mike & Shirley Green
Tue 15th Dec Healing On the Streets Steve Frazer
Wed 16th Dec Prayers Mike & Shirley Green
Thu 17th Dec Prayers Neil Mackay
Closed for Christmas Holidays and will re-open on Tuesday 12th January 2010
CHRIST CHURCH ACTION TEAM
helping to make Bridlington a better place to live
Christ Church Action Team
is a team of volunteers and people on work placements helping keep the town centre of Bridlington clean and tidy.
We are able to deal with litter hot spots, dog-fouling and graffiti in and around the town centre of Bridlington. If you are a resident or a business owner with any relevant problems in the town of Bridlington please get in touch.
If you feel you can help in anyway or have a few hours spare. Why not make a difference in keeping Bridlington a better place. Please contact me Jason Smith 10262 404100
PASSION PLAY CHOIR
The Churches Together in Bridlington and District will be contributing to the Passion Play (Good Friday 2nd April) by singing a hymn in 4 parts after the crucifixion. There will be 3 reheasals on the last Thursday of the month - commencing Thursday 28th January at 7.30pm at the Salvation Army Church.
If you do not wish to be involved with acting, please consider the choir.
Please contact Anthony Clarke for more details via Christ Church Reception 01262 404100/400992
From the Christ Church Wardens.
Mark and Frank would like to thank all of our fellowship for your support in prayer, help in activities, giving and your personal support to us, Thank you to the staff in both CCS and PCC and all the volunteers associated with these projects. Without all your support we would not be able to do God’s will in our community and in the wider world. We give thanks to Jonathan and Anne for their leadership and vision.
We wish you A Very Happy Christmas and a new year full of joy and the Holy Spirit refreshing you every day.
Frank and Mark
Thank You form Dinah
I would like to take this opportunity to say a big THANK YOU to everyone who has supported and encouraged me over the last few years in my training as a Lay Reader, especially all those at Martongate . Also THANK YOU to all of you who made the trip to York on a very wet and windy November Day to be at my Licensing in York Minster. It made it a very special occasion for me and one I will not forget marking the end of one season in my life and the beginning of another. Many thanks to you all.
Dinah Rogers
Calling all Mentors!
For your new year diaries!
There will be a meeting with Bev and Jonathan on
THURSDAY 7TH JANUARY
7.00-8.00PM for existing mentors.
This will be in church.
You will be getting a more detailed note from me nearer the time!
Many thanks for all you do.
Bev
A huge thank you to all those who supported and contributed to the East Coast Christian Music Festival. A big thank you to Paul Lowe for the vision and the hard work behind the scenes
Jonathan
Thank you for Romania boxes (340 boxes this year.) Thanks also to John Luty for taking them out with Val Taylor
Jonathan
New Wine Women’s Day
6 March 2010
International Conference Centre,
Harrogate
With Deborah Reed (Bethel Church California)
For info and to book:
www.new-wine.org/women
Pre-School Nativity
at Christ Church
Monday 14th Dec
10.30am
Everyone Welcome!
I would just like to say….
Thank you to all those who sponsored me and supported me in prayer while doing The Great North Run. I achieved my goal (with a little help from my friends) by completing it in four hours. The charity I as raising money for was Marie Curie Cancer Care. If you sponsored me, would it be possible to have it handed in as soon as you can please.
Whether you were a fast or slow runner, they all encouraged each other. It didn’t matter what background they had or what pace you were doing. We were all going the same way, with the same thing in mind. The route was like a roller coaster - it had its ups and downs.
The three times I have done the half marathon, it doesn’t get any easier. Each of the occasions God has used me in many ways. One of which to come side by side and getting down to the person’s level, meeting them as they struggle, but we get over the finish line with aching limbs, emotional but with elation.
Many Thanks & Blessings
Fay Reddington
Confirmation & The Alpha Course
Alpha is a great way to explore the Christian faith and a very helpful way to make new friends at Christ Church. If you are thinking about being confirmed and have not done Alpha, this is a good time to do the course as confirmation happens at Christ Church in the early summer.
The course will start with a launch supper at 7.00pm on Monday 11th January 2010 Please call 01262 404100 for details. To book a place on the course pick up a registration form available at the back of church today or from Reception.
Big Thanks for Supporting the Romania Shoe Box Appeal
Thank-you to everyone who has filled shoeboxes with gifts for Romania. Hundreds of families will have great joy receiving a Christmas shoebox.
Thanks again
Sue Graily
TODZ and FURNITURE STORE
Don’t forget the Furniture Store and Todz shop if you are wanting household things or children’s clothing or toys. We accept donations too!
Thanks, Bev, Gren and Lesley
Equipped To Live (ETL) -
Living Life in Today’s World
“Transformation not just information”
Equipped to live is open to anyone. It is designed to help us live life in today’s difficult world where there are so many choices and seemingly few pointers for life. We think this course will be relevant to everyone who wishes to find the keys for living and making the most of life.
Next Session Saturday 9th January 9.30am to 4.00pm
Overcoming Strongholds in my life
We all have areas we know we could improve in Sometimes a new years resolution is not enough. How do we identify negative strongholds in our thoughts and habits and how do we get free of them?
The cost of each discipleship meeting is £15. If you cannot afford this come along and pay what you can afford
Dates: Saturday 9th January, 6th February, 6th March
Time: 9.30am to 4.00pm
Christmas Services in the Network - Who can you bring?
All the Christmas services we run over Christmas is a great opportunity for you to bring along someone who does not normally attend church throughout the rest of the year. Have a look at all our Christmas services throughout the Network on the back page.
Notice of Revision of Electoral Roll for Christ Church Parish
The electoral roll may be just a piece of paper, but it helps us know who
are part of this church and who are just visitors.
It is the formal membership list of the church. All members of the Network should be on an electoral roll (either Christ Church or West Hill). If you would like your name added to the Christ Church Parish roll please complete an ‘Electoral Roll 2010 Application Form’ available at the back of church or from reception and please leave in Reception on completion by 31st January 2010
The new roll will be displayed in the church for several weeks during February 2010 prior to the PCC Annual General Meeting which will be held on Tuesday 16th March 2010 at 7.30pm
BONFIRE
The community bonfire on the 6th November was a great success with well over 200 people attending, enjoying a free BBQ and good fellowship.
It was thrilling to see so many young families enjoying an evening out on the Church site.
A big thank you to everyone who helped in the organising and serving on the evening, you did a great job.
Jeff
Womens' Weekly
Dec 8th Father Michael Chaffey
Dec 15th Christmas Lunch Outing
Closed until new year—date to be arranged
House of Prayer
Tue 1st Dec Revival Christina Denton
Wed 2nd Dec Kingfisher Trust Dorothy Woodley
Thu 3rd Dec The Nations Mike & Shirley Green
Tue 8th Dec Pre-School Dinah Rogers
Wed 9th Dec Prayers Joy Hensman
Thu 10th Dec Prayers Mike & Shirley Green
Tue 15th Dec Healing On the Streets Steve Frazer
Wed 16th Dec Prayers Mike & Shirley Green
Thu 17th Dec Prayers Neil Mackay
Closed for Christmas Holidays and will re-open on Tuesday 12th January 2010
CHRIST CHURCH ACTION TEAM
helping to make Bridlington a better place to live
Christ Church Action Team
is a team of volunteers and people on work placements helping keep the town centre of Bridlington clean and tidy.
We are able to deal with litter hot spots, dog-fouling and graffiti in and around the town centre of Bridlington. If you are a resident or a business owner with any relevant problems in the town of Bridlington please get in touch.
If you feel you can help in anyway or have a few hours spare. Why not make a difference in keeping Bridlington a better place. Please contact me Jason Smith 10262 404100
PASSION PLAY CHOIR
The Churches Together in Bridlington and District will be contributing to the Passion Play (Good Friday 2nd April) by singing a hymn in 4 parts after the crucifixion. There will be 3 reheasals on the last Thursday of the month - commencing Thursday 28th January at 7.30pm at the Salvation Army Church.
If you do not wish to be involved with acting, please consider the choir.
Please contact Anthony Clarke for more details via Christ Church Reception 01262 404100/400992
From the Christ Church Wardens.
Mark and Frank would like to thank all of our fellowship for your support in prayer, help in activities, giving and your personal support to us, Thank you to the staff in both CCS and PCC and all the volunteers associated with these projects. Without all your support we would not be able to do God’s will in our community and in the wider world. We give thanks to Jonathan and Anne for their leadership and vision.
We wish you A Very Happy Christmas and a new year full of joy and the Holy Spirit refreshing you every day.
Frank and Mark
Thank You form Dinah
I would like to take this opportunity to say a big THANK YOU to everyone who has supported and encouraged me over the last few years in my training as a Lay Reader, especially all those at Martongate . Also THANK YOU to all of you who made the trip to York on a very wet and windy November Day to be at my Licensing in York Minster. It made it a very special occasion for me and one I will not forget marking the end of one season in my life and the beginning of another. Many thanks to you all.
Dinah Rogers
Calling all Mentors!
For your new year diaries!
There will be a meeting with Bev and Jonathan on
THURSDAY 7TH JANUARY
7.00-8.00PM for existing mentors.
This will be in church.
You will be getting a more detailed note from me nearer the time!
Many thanks for all you do.
Bev
The Curate writes…
A phrase from the Lord’s prayer and a verse that follows:
…and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who have sinned against us.
Matthew 6:12
For if you forgive people their offenses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive people their offenses, your Father will not forgive your offenses."
Matthew 6:14-15
When preparing for conflict, military personnel practice particular moves over and over and study tactics particularly carefully. They learn things for different battles and scenarios very carefully, for obvious reasons. Their lives depend on it.
…and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who have sinned against us.
Matthew 6:12
For if you forgive people their offenses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive people their offenses, your Father will not forgive your offenses."
Matthew 6:14-15
When preparing for conflict, military personnel practice particular moves over and over and study tactics particularly carefully. They learn things for different battles and scenarios very carefully, for obvious reasons. Their lives depend on it.
New Wine Network: Pastoral Prayer Ministry Training Day at Pickering
Pastoral Prayer Ministry Training Day
Pickering, North Yorkshire
28 November 2009
Seminars
The following areas will be covered:
Guidelines for establishing a Pastoral Prayer Ministry in your church
People’s problems and their causes
Irrational beliefs
Protective strategies
Practices in pastoral prayer
Time for questions and ministry
Pickering, North Yorkshire
28 November 2009
Seminars
The following areas will be covered:
Guidelines for establishing a Pastoral Prayer Ministry in your church
People’s problems and their causes
Irrational beliefs
Protective strategies
Practices in pastoral prayer
Time for questions and ministry
Lunch
Please bring a packed lunch. Tea and coffee will be provided during the day.
Speaker
Elaine Wainaina was born in Lancashire to Yorkshire parents, taught in Kent and Kenya, married Francis in 1975 and worked in Kenya in various settings until 1988. She has been involved in pastoral prayer since 1989, trained as a counsellor in 1998 and now runs a charitable Christian counselling service in Harrogate. She is passionate about ministering wholeness.
Programme
The day will run from 9.15am to 4.30pm.
Directions
Venue:
Memorial Hall
Potter Hill
Pickering
North Yorkshire
YO18 8AA
Map: Available from Christ Church reception 01262 404100
Speaker
Elaine Wainaina was born in Lancashire to Yorkshire parents, taught in Kent and Kenya, married Francis in 1975 and worked in Kenya in various settings until 1988. She has been involved in pastoral prayer since 1989, trained as a counsellor in 1998 and now runs a charitable Christian counselling service in Harrogate. She is passionate about ministering wholeness.
Programme
The day will run from 9.15am to 4.30pm.
Directions
Venue:
Memorial Hall
Potter Hill
Pickering
North Yorkshire
YO18 8AA
Map: Available from Christ Church reception 01262 404100
How to find the venue
For directions by car, please find below a list of online route finders that may help you in planning your journey:
AA - www.theaa.com
RAC - www.rac.co.uk
Multimap - www.multimap.com
For directions by car, please find below a list of online route finders that may help you in planning your journey:
AA - www.theaa.com
RAC - www.rac.co.uk
Multimap - www.multimap.com
New Wine Network: A Day with Michelle Guiness Saturday Dec 5th
A day with Michele Guinness who will be speaking about
‘Celebration’
When: Saturday December 5th
10am-4pm
Cost: £10 for the day
(refreshments included, please bring a packed lunch)
Where: St Martin’s Church, Main Street, Seamer, Scarborough, North Yorkshire,
YO12 4QG
To book:
Please send the form (available at back of church or reception)to:
Hazel Hall, 8 Mayfield Drive, Seamer, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, YO12 4RA
Any questions please email Laura on revlaurajane@yahoo.co.uk
Cheques payable to ‘St Martin’s, Seamer PCC’
MICHELE GUINNESS - A BIOGRAPHY
Brought up in a practising Jewish family, Michele Guinness has worked as a presenter,
researcher and writer for national TV and radio, and for two years presented her own
three-hour, daily lunchtime programme on BBC local radio.
When she moved to Lancashire she became press officer for a children’s hospice, moved to the NHS two years later to become a communications manager, then eventually Head of Communications for the whole of the NHS in Cumbria and Lancashire. She gave it up at the last government reshuffle three years ago to concentrate on writing, training and
speaking.
For two years Michele had a monthly cookery column in Woman Alive Magazine, and continues to contribute regularly to several magazines and newspapers, including Families First, Christianity and The Church of England Newspaper.
She has written eleven books, mainly biographical, mainly from her uniquely Jewish perspective - except her biography of the Guinness family, (The Genius of Guinness,
Ambassador), which tells the story of her husband’s famous brewing, banking and missionary ancestors.
Woman the Full Story, Zondervan, was published in 2004.
The Heavenly Party: Recovering the Fun - Celebrations for Home and Community, published in October 2006 by Monarch, is a guide to celebration - at home or in the community.
Chosen, published in 2007, is a re-write and update of her best-selling autobiography, Child of the Covenant, (over 350,000 sold) first published 25 years ago. and A Little Kosher Seasoning.
Her latest book, Autumn Leave - A Season in France, the diary of a three month sabbatical, about the pleasures and pitfalls of buying a house in France will be published by Authentic in July, 2009.
Michele is a regular speaker at New Wine and Spring Harvest. She has also spoken at Greenbelt, ECG, Detling and the National Gathering of the Church of Scotland – as well as for secular organisations such as the WI and Rotary.
She is married to Peter, Vicar of St Thomas’ Lancaster, and has a grown up son and daughter, and two small grandchildren.
Monday 9 November 2009
Thursday 5 November 2009
TRISHA WICK'S NEWS FOR NOVEMBER 2009
RAHAMA
Pray for Wilson's (my Driver) daughter Rahama, who was attacked with a hammer on her way to school in Yambio and has a serious head injury. Hospital cannot x ray etc.
ELECTIONS
The month of November is the time for all Sudanese over the age of 18 to get their names put on the Electoral Register in preparation for the Elections in April 2010. There is an increase in insecurity in many areas as tension mounts.
TESSA
My dog Tessa, is very pregnant and due to give birth in late November.
CANON'S INSTALLATION
On November 8th I will be installed in my Canon's Chair in All Saint's Cathedral in Maridi Diocese.
YOUTH CONFERENCE
The Diocesan Youth Conference is from November 16th - 20th. Youth from all over the Diocese will come. Pray for Wilson in his work as Diocesan Youth and Sunday School Coordinator.
DISCIPLESHIP TRAINING
In my new role I have started to visit all 8 Archdeaconries to do teaching on Discipleship. We have now finished writing and translating 'Following Jesus' Book 2 and will soon start Book 3.
LORD'S RESISTANCE ARMY
The LRA Ugandan Rebel Group which has been terrorizing Western Equatoria for a couple of years, are now moving North towards Darfur and Chad. Some smaller groups are still around our area. Pray for a solution.
MA STUDIES
I am now working on my second assignment which is preparing a proposal for my Dissertation for my third year. The topic will be looking at 'Is a lack of Discipleship Training the main reason why we do not retain some of our Youth in Maridi Diocese?' Does anyone have any expertise in any aspects of this?
DRY SEASON
It seems the rains have finished and we are now entering the dry season. Christmas is usually the hottest time of the year. Our local harvest is good this year and we are enjoying many fruits too.
COMPOUND REPAIRS
This is now the time of year to make repairs to buildings etc. as plenty of grass is available for the roofs. We also need to repaint the house.
CHAIMA COLLEGE
Bishop Justin is upgrading our Theological College to include extra courses such as computer, accounting, management, project planning, administration. When our young people finish at our Secondary School they will then be given the opportunity to go onto further studies such as these.
WILSON TO VISIT UK?
If God opens the way my Colleague Wilson may visit UK with me next year for about three months. Bishop Justin is very supportive of this. The problem will be getting the Visa - only God can provide, so much prayer needed.
PARENTS
They are such a wonderful support! Continue to pray for their health.
I am fit and well and very happy here.
Love to you all,
Trisha
Pray for Wilson's (my Driver) daughter Rahama, who was attacked with a hammer on her way to school in Yambio and has a serious head injury. Hospital cannot x ray etc.
ELECTIONS
The month of November is the time for all Sudanese over the age of 18 to get their names put on the Electoral Register in preparation for the Elections in April 2010. There is an increase in insecurity in many areas as tension mounts.
TESSA
My dog Tessa, is very pregnant and due to give birth in late November.
CANON'S INSTALLATION
On November 8th I will be installed in my Canon's Chair in All Saint's Cathedral in Maridi Diocese.
YOUTH CONFERENCE
The Diocesan Youth Conference is from November 16th - 20th. Youth from all over the Diocese will come. Pray for Wilson in his work as Diocesan Youth and Sunday School Coordinator.
DISCIPLESHIP TRAINING
In my new role I have started to visit all 8 Archdeaconries to do teaching on Discipleship. We have now finished writing and translating 'Following Jesus' Book 2 and will soon start Book 3.
LORD'S RESISTANCE ARMY
The LRA Ugandan Rebel Group which has been terrorizing Western Equatoria for a couple of years, are now moving North towards Darfur and Chad. Some smaller groups are still around our area. Pray for a solution.
MA STUDIES
I am now working on my second assignment which is preparing a proposal for my Dissertation for my third year. The topic will be looking at 'Is a lack of Discipleship Training the main reason why we do not retain some of our Youth in Maridi Diocese?' Does anyone have any expertise in any aspects of this?
DRY SEASON
It seems the rains have finished and we are now entering the dry season. Christmas is usually the hottest time of the year. Our local harvest is good this year and we are enjoying many fruits too.
COMPOUND REPAIRS
This is now the time of year to make repairs to buildings etc. as plenty of grass is available for the roofs. We also need to repaint the house.
CHAIMA COLLEGE
Bishop Justin is upgrading our Theological College to include extra courses such as computer, accounting, management, project planning, administration. When our young people finish at our Secondary School they will then be given the opportunity to go onto further studies such as these.
WILSON TO VISIT UK?
If God opens the way my Colleague Wilson may visit UK with me next year for about three months. Bishop Justin is very supportive of this. The problem will be getting the Visa - only God can provide, so much prayer needed.
PARENTS
They are such a wonderful support! Continue to pray for their health.
I am fit and well and very happy here.
Love to you all,
Trisha
Tuesday 3 November 2009
David & Chris Price write...
Dear praying friends
Just a quick line to let you know that we have arrived safely in Jakarta, we are staying in the NTM guest house here. Tomorrow we will travel to Salatiga where we will be living and studying for the next year.
We are keen to see where we will be living and also to be able to sleep in the same bed for more that a couple of nights!!
There are lots of different sights and sounds and smells around, we would appreciate your prayer that we would be flexible and gracious as we adjust to a different way of life here.
Just a quick line to let you know that we have arrived safely in Jakarta, we are staying in the NTM guest house here. Tomorrow we will travel to Salatiga where we will be living and studying for the next year.
We are keen to see where we will be living and also to be able to sleep in the same bed for more that a couple of nights!!
There are lots of different sights and sounds and smells around, we would appreciate your prayer that we would be flexible and gracious as we adjust to a different way of life here.
Friday 30 October 2009
Monday 26 October 2009
The Vicar writes...
Dear All,
This last year has been a year when God is taking us onto a new level. The new events in the year include Awards for the Learning Departing and also the County Chairman’s Award for CCS for making a difference in society. Bishop David Pytches, and Peter Gladstone of the Church Army both on separate occasions in September described Christ Church in the same words “a secret treasure” . David Pytches said also that he wants what is happening here to be more widely known as he thinks it will bless the rest of the UK.
Over the year we have experienced a greater depth of presence in our worship, and have valued Rob parker’s willingness to go “the extra mile” in pursuing God personally, as well as teaming up with June Lee to form a mid week “filling station” for all who desire God’s presence . We have also this year further cemented with the Diocese our Network strategy to reach the people of Bridlington with the gospel and in so doing have welcomed Dave and Debra Chislett to West Hill. It has been great personally to be able to spend more time at West Hill during the “interregnum” and to see that congregation continue to grow, and there is a great team there whom God is expanding into the community at West Hill in many ways. A thank you to Dave for all he is starting to do there.
New developments this year include a successful pastoral training course which Polly Hart led for counsellors from the wider region. We have facilitated a ballet/dance performing school in the Key Centre, and transformed the garden to a place where it was part of the Bridlington in Bloom bid which achieved a silver award this year. We have also been given responsibility for St Andrews, Ulrome which has grown under Chaz and Margaret Walker from being closed to a regular congregation of around 20. The 11am service at Christ Church has planted out two new Network churches (Youth Church with Rob & Jo Parker which incorporates freestyle under Alistair Robertson and Play N Do Church with Andy & Moira Jefferson). The 11am church service itself has transformed into a new shape whilst Trax still operates successfully teaching the children of junior age within this service. The new services have been matched with remarkable growth as all three services have welcomed new members each week since it started in its new format. God is indeed “adding to our number those who are being saved”. It is Martongate’s fifth anniversary at the end of November and we are delighted that the commitment of this congregation has brought about a Christian presence in that part of Bridlington which is benefiting many. Applegarth continues to provide a place where the Bridgeway church meets. This is a church where people can belong in a secure pastoral context whilst at the same time welcome friends and neighbours to join us. In addition we have been part of supporting the Yorkshire Prayer Conference which is being repeated next year and is now being rolled out to Derby, Lincoln and possibly Lancashire next year. Thank you for all you have done which has helped to bring about so much of God’s blessing through us.
We are now at a point where we are cautiously seeking to develop conferences so we can welcome to this county International speakers who can bless this town and nation. We are seeking to combine a National Conference ministry with our local Network, so the DNA of our church life shows through in this bigger setting. This is a big task and in 2010 will be an experimental year towards that end. This is still at it’s early infancy, but please pray for this development.
During the year we saw Darron Lawer leaving as our Youth Worker, and we are grateful to those members of the congregation who at short notice have been willing to shoulder parts of the job Darron was doing . The plan is to reappoint a Youth Worker in 2011 to help bring the Kingdom of God amongst young people.. The Boys’ Brigade goes from strength to strength, and has grown in both size and quality. So many parents in Bridlington support this because they recognise the good it is bringing to their son. The Christ Church Youth Club meets on a Friday and is currently heaving in numbers. Andy Gradwell the leader of the Youth club writes “In running the Youth Club at Christchurch I want it to be a place where young people can meet in the knowledge that they are not going to be judged or condemned for being themselves. A place where those with low aspirations and self esteem can see an alternative future, have access to events that raise their self esteem and show them that they can achieve. A place where they can safely express themselves without ridicule, can seek advice on issues that they may feel unable to ask other adults. Or yes and have fun! All of this within a Christian environment.” A big thank you to Andy & Mandy and the Team.
It has also been great to see Ben Couper’s recitals and music taking a place of mission in the town. Thank you to Paul Lowe for his vision and implementation of the Christian music festival, and also to Anthony Clarke for all he has done in Christian musicals this year (and the passion play next year in the town)
We look forward to all that God is going to do this year. The task before us is great and we need prayer every step of the way if we are going to take our place within God’s plan for the region as well as God’s plan in the town. Pray for me and the others meeting at Bawtry next year, and also the new partnerships with leaders around the nation we are exploring in order to bring about different initiatives to facilitate the kingdom of God in this land.
Jonathan
Sunday 25 October 2009
Bawtry Hall - Mike Gowen writes...
Mike Gowen writes… I was reflecting on the Bawtry conference and was struck by Isaiah 9:8, which I came to in my daily study: “The LORD has sent a message in Jacob and it will fall (i.e. come to pass) in Israel.” The prophet is speaking to an apostate society (the northern kingdom), rather like our own; and he begins by saying, look what God has said to you already, and then see how it will come to pass.
That set me thinking: What has God been saying to England over the past century that really stands out. Two of the most formative Christians in that century for England were Smith Wigglesworth and Billy Graham, the one a pioneer in signs, wonders and healing, and the other in evangelism. The Smith Wigglesworth prophecy of 1947, which was reproduced in September Network News, seems highly relevant to me. Much of what he said has come true, so we can expect the rest to come to pass too. The lesson here is: Hold on to word and spirit together, because this is going to usher in something really powerful.
I remember reading a history of Billy Graham, that during his first Haringey crusade of 1954 they felt God saying to them that if they stuck at it they would see revival break out in Britain in an unprecedented way. Interestingly, he does not mention this in his autobiography. What he does say, and what is history, is that they gave up after 3 months because they were so exhausted. And there was no revival, even there was a considerable move of God. The lesson her is to pace ourselves – not burn ourselves out like Evan Roberts did in the Welsh Revival – but not to give up because it seems too hard or too exhausting – this may be just the point at which the breakthrough is about to come. I think these two lessons are going to be very important for us in coming years.
Blessings,
Mike
That set me thinking: What has God been saying to England over the past century that really stands out. Two of the most formative Christians in that century for England were Smith Wigglesworth and Billy Graham, the one a pioneer in signs, wonders and healing, and the other in evangelism. The Smith Wigglesworth prophecy of 1947, which was reproduced in September Network News, seems highly relevant to me. Much of what he said has come true, so we can expect the rest to come to pass too. The lesson here is: Hold on to word and spirit together, because this is going to usher in something really powerful.
I remember reading a history of Billy Graham, that during his first Haringey crusade of 1954 they felt God saying to them that if they stuck at it they would see revival break out in Britain in an unprecedented way. Interestingly, he does not mention this in his autobiography. What he does say, and what is history, is that they gave up after 3 months because they were so exhausted. And there was no revival, even there was a considerable move of God. The lesson her is to pace ourselves – not burn ourselves out like Evan Roberts did in the Welsh Revival – but not to give up because it seems too hard or too exhausting – this may be just the point at which the breakthrough is about to come. I think these two lessons are going to be very important for us in coming years.
Blessings,
Mike
Saturday 24 October 2009
Learning Department
Bumper Year for Learning Department – Academic Year 2008 - 2009-10-19
Shirley Moir Head of Learning writes – It has been our best year yet in terms of numbers of students enrolled on to our courses (330+). Fifteen out of the 61 starters on our employability course moved into employment, many others progressed on to further learning and voluntary work, some within Christ Church and others with different agencies.
What our learners have said about us
Employability Skills Programme:
The teachers are excellent, they are easy to get on with and it helps me to learn new things
Extremely satisfactory for my personal goals
Computing Courses
The tutors have been excellent
Have learnt a lot
Photography courses
A very informative and enjoyable course, taught in a clear way – Very good
Excellent course as an introduction to Photoshop
We are currently working towards the matrix standard, which will enable us to offer Information Advice and Guidance to our learners and others.
Shirley Moir Head of Learning writes – It has been our best year yet in terms of numbers of students enrolled on to our courses (330+). Fifteen out of the 61 starters on our employability course moved into employment, many others progressed on to further learning and voluntary work, some within Christ Church and others with different agencies.
What our learners have said about us
Employability Skills Programme:
The teachers are excellent, they are easy to get on with and it helps me to learn new things
Extremely satisfactory for my personal goals
Computing Courses
The tutors have been excellent
Have learnt a lot
Photography courses
A very informative and enjoyable course, taught in a clear way – Very good
Excellent course as an introduction to Photoshop
We are currently working towards the matrix standard, which will enable us to offer Information Advice and Guidance to our learners and others.
Thursday 22 October 2009
Evaluation of Church Fabric 2008/2009
During the 2008/2009 Church Site maintenance programme the following are some of the projects covered.
· The interior painting of the Church ( only the Chancel remains to be painted )
· The re-paint of the Forecourt and toilet areas.
· The installation of the automatic winding mechanism of the Church clock
· The external treatment of the Forecourt hardwood doors and windows.
· General repairs to the Church roof, gutters and downpipes
New drainage pipes laid to improve the sites surface water drainage.
Church House, Pre-school and Noah’s Ark Nursery have undergone a partial repainting programme with some new outdoor additions to the Pre-school and Nursery.
The Key Centre has stepped forward with the introduction of a new I.T. Suite which has replaced the Recording Studio ( now located on the Church balcony )
Air conditioning has been installed within the I.T. Suites
The Seminar Lounge has been equipped with wall-bars, wall-mirrors and flooring so as to facilitate ballet classes.
The Community Garden project has been ongoing during the past 3 years and is now a delight to stroll along the footpaths, shrubs and flower beds. Praise plaques have been placed at different points within the garden.
Gilead House in Queensgate has undergone a complete re-décor plus a revamp of the garden.
Jeff Denton
Site Manager
· The interior painting of the Church ( only the Chancel remains to be painted )
· The re-paint of the Forecourt and toilet areas.
· The installation of the automatic winding mechanism of the Church clock
· The external treatment of the Forecourt hardwood doors and windows.
· General repairs to the Church roof, gutters and downpipes
New drainage pipes laid to improve the sites surface water drainage.
Church House, Pre-school and Noah’s Ark Nursery have undergone a partial repainting programme with some new outdoor additions to the Pre-school and Nursery.
The Key Centre has stepped forward with the introduction of a new I.T. Suite which has replaced the Recording Studio ( now located on the Church balcony )
Air conditioning has been installed within the I.T. Suites
The Seminar Lounge has been equipped with wall-bars, wall-mirrors and flooring so as to facilitate ballet classes.
The Community Garden project has been ongoing during the past 3 years and is now a delight to stroll along the footpaths, shrubs and flower beds. Praise plaques have been placed at different points within the garden.
Gilead House in Queensgate has undergone a complete re-décor plus a revamp of the garden.
Jeff Denton
Site Manager
The Curate writes…
Since you have accepted Christ Jesus as Lord, live in union with him. Keep your roots deep in him, build your lives on him, and become stronger in your faith, as you were taught. And be filled with thanksgiving.
Colossians 2:6,7 Good News Bible
You have accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord. Now keep on following him. Plant your roots in Christ and let him be the foundation for your life. Be strong in your faith, just as you were taught. And be grateful.
Colossians 2:6-7 CEV
So then, just as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live in him. For you have been rooted in him and are being built up and strengthened in the faith, just as you were taught, while you overflow with thanksgiving.
Colossians 2:6-7 International Standard Version
Whether we have been a Jesus follower for one day or 50 years, these verses speak an eternal truth to us all. King Jesus, the Messiah, the anointed one, the enabled one –is who we need. I like the different shades of meaning that the different translations give us. Consider the first from the GNB. Live in union with him. How do we live in union with anybody? Well, it includes talking to them, understanding where they are coming from, sharing their hopes, dreams and ambitions. The same is true for living in union with Jesus. If we really do that with people, then we will go where they go too. It’s the same for us and Jesus. The CEV brings that aspect out ‘keep on following him’. Life with Jesus is never static although in him there is also rest and peace.
‘Keep your roots in him’ is evocative too and reminds us of Psalm 1:1-3. The picture above speaks of that. The scriptures are fulfilled in Jesus, He is the wisdom of God. Living his way is the only way really, and as we do it, we are putting roots into him.
Being stronger in our faith has a couple of aspects. One is learning to trust from our experience of him and one is actually knowing and understanding the apostles teachings (which involves doing them) more and more. And those teachings are about Jesus and all he achieved and who we are in him. Which naturally leads on to thanksgiving. The poor are made rich, the guilty set free, all sinners given a fresh start joyfully. Lots to be thankful for – and we could add the good things happening among us.
What are his hopes and dreams for each of us and the places and people we meet, work with and love? And for the world? How will we find out? Prayer, fellowship worship are key ingredients. It would be a mistake to think this is centred in us as individuals. Its about God’s kingdom coming on earth NOW. Being in his family, in the family business, of one heart and mind and whole hearted at that. And what a project to live for! There isn’t anything better or bigger.
Back to the verses. The more we are rooted in him, the deeper the roots go, the stronger we become, the more fruit can be grown. Big leafy plants have to have good root systems, so do we in Jesus. Lets immerse ourselves in him, together as well as secretly in the private place of prayer.
The Lord make His face to shine upon you.
God Bless
Dave
Worship Central in Bradford
Don't miss out on Worship Central in Bradford on 30 October.
30 October 2009, 7:30pm (doors 6:30pm). Tickets (online only) £5 + 50p booking fee.
Hosted by Tim Hughes & Al Gordon, who are joined by Ben Cantelon & Nikki Fletcher, this is an evening celebration in the heart of Bradford for everyone involved in the worship life of the local church - with loads of space for extended times of worship, teaching and ministry.
Venue: Abundant Life Wapping Road Bradford West Yorkshire BD3 OEQ.http://www.worshipcentral.org/events/uk-tour-bradford
30 October 2009, 7:30pm (doors 6:30pm). Tickets (online only) £5 + 50p booking fee.
Hosted by Tim Hughes & Al Gordon, who are joined by Ben Cantelon & Nikki Fletcher, this is an evening celebration in the heart of Bradford for everyone involved in the worship life of the local church - with loads of space for extended times of worship, teaching and ministry.
Venue: Abundant Life Wapping Road Bradford West Yorkshire BD3 OEQ.http://www.worshipcentral.org/events/uk-tour-bradford
Tuesday 20 October 2009
Monday 19 October 2009
Martongate Community Church
The Bridlington Half Marathon.
On a beautiful Sunday on 18th October at 12-00 noon I ran the Bridlington half marathon (13.1 miles) along with 800 runners. The view across the bay from the leisure world was at it’s best with Flamborough cliffs reflecting the suns rays. I am sure we all felt good. The gun sounded and we all set off, up Limekiln Lane, along Wheatley drive, turning right along Martongate up to Flamborough. It is so easy to get caught up with the pace of the race, The first four miles are critical as to how you finish the race, and when everybody else is overtaking you, you need something to tell you that you are doing o.k. I run with a heart monitor which gives me feed back as to the pace I am running, I then can make a decision if I can sustain the pace I am going till the end of the race.
As we follow God’s calling on our lives we also need something to monitor our hearts, that is why prayer is so important, that is why reading the Bible is so important, that is why listening to God is crucial, when many others are dashing in front of us, and wonderful things are happening to others we need to be patient and accept that God knows what is best for you, when everybody else appears to be running the race so effortlessly listen to your heart, not what you see around you, monitor your own condition, that is the key to finishing the race, pace yourself so that burn out will not leave you exhausted.
If anybody knows the road from Flamborough to Bempton and the first part of Bempton lane it is all very steep. I arrived at Flamborough in pretty good shape (4 miles) and prepared for the steep climb that lay ahead, I ate some jelly babies and drank some water (Jelly babies are a good intake when running) before I started the steep inclines which is the most difficult part of the run. Mile markers helped to let us know how we were progressing, how encouraging to see the 5, 6, 7 mile markers come and go. We all need encouraging on our journey, we should prepare ourselves for when the going gets tough: Psalm 23 Even when I walk through the darkest valley I will not be afraid for you are close beside me (N.L.T.) The word ‘even’ brings so much comfort and reassurance and hope for us all, for although we may not recognise the Lord in difficult times He is with us, Your rod and Staff protect and comfort me.
The 8 mile marker was such a joy, after all the effort of climbing the hills, we viewed Bridlington bay, I am sure you all have seen it from this viewpoint, but when you have struggled to reach the top and the wind is blowing into your hot face the sense of God’s awesome goodness, creates within you a glow knowing that you have stayed the course, never given up, proceeded along the journey. James Ch 1 v 2 -4 ‘Dear Brothers and Sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know when your faith is tested your endurance has a chance to grow.’ We do not test out our fitness running down hill, it is tested when running up hill. Our faith isn’t tested when the going is easy it is tested when the going is tough, and we should welcome this testing with great joy.
It’s all down hill now, the 10 mile marker outside Headlands school, people are struggling with cramp and fatigue; through part of Sewerby park - I am encouraged when Margaret and Bryan (her Grandson) are there to give support. Out onto the sea front, the finish in sight only two more miles, I am on schedule for my best ever time for this distance, I am in the last 100 still running but I have done the best I can. Cramp is coming into my legs but I am overtaking some who maybe started the race to quickly. The home straight - I am running past the Expanse Hotel; Angela and members of my family are cheering and encouraging, Julia is there Ken and Anne and their son John (who completed the race in 1 hour 50min) all cheering. The man on the loud speaker system saw my race number looked it up on the list and encouraged by calling out my name, as did others who do not know me or knew my name. The race was run in my best time. Did I fail because I didn’t win? No. Did I fail because I came in the last 100 approximately? No. Do those who know and love me need to look up my name on a list? No. When you have run the race and did of your very best, do you think the Lord will need to look up your name on a list? No.
He knows every hair on your head, and He is with you always wherever you are on your journey through this life.
You need Pace, listening to the Lord, Patience, to wait on the Lord and Perseverance, through trusting in the Lord.
Roger
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