E News

Confirmation

2010-03-23T08:07:00.001Z

Confirmation - Sunday 14th June 2009

Please pray for those who have stated that wish to be confirmed this year. The list so far :

Christine Cullen, Andrew Gradwell, David Gaden & Emma Farr

It is the Church Of England ruling that only those who are confirmed can take communion.

The reason for the ruling is that I Corinthians 11 talks of trouble if people take communion “unworthily” and the church in earliest years thought it wise to teach people the Christian faith before they were allowed to take communion for this reason. For us at Christ Church Alpha is the course which satisfies these conditions. If you have been through Alpha or are going through Alpha at Christ Church you can be confirmed

The confirmation service in Christ Church will take place this year on Sunday 20th June at the 6pm service. If you would like to be confirmed please complete the green form at the back of Christ Church which is also available from your service leader or Reception. Please forward to Reception on completion

The Curate writes…

2010-03-23T08:05:00.000Z

Sons and Daughters of God

Have a read of Matthew’s take on the gospel, from the baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:13) to the end of the first temptations (Matthew 4:11)

The bible wasn’t written with chapters and verses, they were added well over a thousand years later. Sometimes they can get in the way of the flow of things. Maybe this is such a case. Because directly after Jesus is Baptized, The Holy Spirit Comes on Jesus and a voice from heaven says to Jesus and those around ‘This is my beloved Son, and I am pleased with Him’.

40 days later, having been without food and water, so probably not at His best physically, the devil comes and says “If you are God’s Son…. It could have been the first words said to Jesus after Father had spoken from heaven

Now have a look at the same episode from Luke’s point of view. Its probably even stronger. First there is the baptism and the same voice from heaven, then directly after the long family tree bit, which is about Jesus being the Son of God, Jesus is tempted by the devil for 40 days – and then come the major ones. “If you are the Son of God…”

Jesus totally ignores that bit of the temptations. Doesn’t even mention it. No attention is given to it at all. He is the Son of God.

Christians also are God’s children. Its plastered all over scripture, not least in the core prayer “Our Father in heaven...”

I know a man who has a lovely habit for his children. When they are born, he holds them in his hands, looking at them with love and sings a little song which starts “I am your Dad…I love you…” At different times in their young lives he does it again. “I am your Dad…I love you…” He said recently of a time when one of his teenage sons was going through a rough time, he put his arm round him and sang “I am your Dad…I love you…” The young lad was embarrassed but peace settled on him, resonating with knowledge that goes way back in his life.

Tough times in life can be unsettling. Unemployment, or employment within troubled relationships, or employment with pressure of deadlines and targets, arguments with anybody, poor health. The list can go on. BUT none of these do anything to affect our identity. We are still Father God’s dearly loved children. Guess who is upset by that. The devil would like to see anything make you doubt that you are God’s dearly loved child.

One way of having peace return, the peace of Father God, is to dwell on scriptures that tell us of who we are, and what we are like, because of Jesus. I like that word dwell. It’s like a place to live and stay. The Holy Spirit gets in on it too, and puts deeply into our hearts Abba Father and feelings will follow the golden fact.

You’ll be able to find your own scriptures, but here are a few to dwell in, to think about, to take thoughts captive with, to live as a dearly loved child of God:
· My Father God is intimate and involved (Psalm 139:1-18)
· Accepting not rejecting (Romans 15:7)
· My Father God celebrates and sings over me and refreshes me with his love (Zeph 3:17)
· My Father God is with me (Hebrews 13:5)
· Jesus wants me to have a fulfilling life (John 10:10)
· Father gives me freedom even to fail and restores me (Luke 15:11-25)
· I have been chosen – and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16)

You’ll discover more truths in those scriptures than I’ve mentioned. God has great plans for you and the bet is yet to come. Dwell in the truth and be peaceful. You’ll also have noticed that much of the scripture is about us as a people. So, if you are going through it (or not!) be especially determined to come to the services, to worship, to receive from Father God through the Body of Christ.

God Bless
Dave

Releasing the Kingdom Conference

2010-03-23T08:04:00.000Z

Andy Hall writes...

Releasing the Kingdom 3

This is the third conference done by Andy Hall looking at the basics of Kingdom lifestyle. It aims to equip us to see what's it involved for us, as we move from a church based Christendom model off faith, to a world engaging transforming version of the faith. This conference will continue to look at ways in which The Father wants to extend His Kingdom on the earth through us. We will be looking father into signs wonders authority and prayer under the four titles:

1. Kingdom come - From heaven to earth; switching our view to see thongs from Gods perspective!

2. Kingdom come -The government shall be on His shoulders. How much and how, does God expect us to rule on the earth?

3. Kingdom come - A church without spot or blemish. Do you have a "little church" mentality or a "victorious overcoming church" mentality. What's the Father working towards?

4. Kingdom come - power evangelism; Jesus hallmarked the ministry of the Kingdom with signs wonders and deliverance. Is such a ministry possible for me today and how do I get into it?

If you have not attended the first two don't worry this material will stand on its own. There will be plenty of time for response and prayer ministry and worship during the weekend. We fully expect the Kingdom to come and be manifested in the ways we are speaking about as indeed it has at the two previous conferences

Andy Hall is a bible teacher and evangelist based in The Lighthouse Church in Ayrshire. He travels widely nationally and internationally speaking on the Kingdom and seeking to equip motivate and mobilize believers to be effective agents of change in their communities. He is part of the leadership of CLAN Gathering Conference (New Wine in Scotland) and also serves as the chairman of Leaders together for Scotland. He is married to Yvonne who is a pioneering evangelist with Healing Rooms in Scotland and they have two daughters at University in Scotland
You can see more of Andy's ministry at www.equippedtolivenetwork.org.

Andy Hall

Booking forms for Releasing The Kingdom 3 are available from Christ Church Reception 01262 404100 or from the information table at the back of Christ Church

Thanks to Roger and Angela

2010-03-23T08:03:00.002Z

Message from Martongate Community Church

We are at a loss as to how to say thank you enough to ROGER GALE for all he has done and achieved at Martongate.

We have been so grateful for his Leadership, his vision. his clear thinking, his inspiration and encouragement to us all.

He has walked with us through the good and the bad times – he has been there – what more could we have asked for.

We are delighted that he and Angela have decided to keep worshipping with us and pray for God’s blessing on them both.

2010-03-23T08:03:00.001Z

Martongate Community Church

2010-03-23T08:02:00.000Z

Don Cossett in his book “What you say is what you get” says the following

“The bible says (Mark 16:20) that the disciples went forth and preached everywhere the Lord working with them and confirming the word with signs following . Jesus said if you ask anything in my name, I will do it (John 14:14). Who does the work? Jesus does the work. You do the asking, and Jesus does the giving. You do the preaching, and Jesus confirms the word. You say Jesus does. Since God does all the work, it’s important to give Him all the glory for it.”

On the opening day of Martongate Community Church Nov 11th 2004 Arnold Norton gave a very clear message for the purpose of the Church and he spoke these words of our mission, under our network mission of Jesus Christ for all.

Our aim is to bring the Love of Jesus into people’s lives by:-
Serving the community
Expressing God’s Love
Reaching out
Valuing every person
Enjoying fellowship with one another

This aim has been printed on the front sheet of our weekly news letter Martongate Matters for five years and although we seldom refer to it, Arnold spoke the word and God has done the work, mainly by sending people to us who have stood in the gap between the church and the community; by God showing us how much He loves us so that we are able to express God’s love in the community; by reaching out; by the church valuing every person who attends or has attended the church; by enjoying our fellowship before and after our meetings and in the house groups.

We do the asking Jesus does the work. The church has grown from 15 to 55 in 5 years. The church is reaching out into the community with Mums and Tots, Signpost, craft fayres. We do the asking Jesus does the giving

Don Cossett goes onto to say

“What you confess you possess. If it is negative confession the results will be negative. If it is a positive confession, the results will be Godward. When your heart gives a ringing positive “YES” to the Word, positive results will begin to occur in your life”
We have not sat down and done a sense check on our position with regard to our aim, but because we said it publically and positioned it on the front of our news letter every week God has honoured that, as we have strived to do His will.

God Bless
Roger and Angela

The Anointing

2010-03-23T08:01:00.000Z

The Anointing

Praise and fruitfulness are the two which have the longest descriptions of Jacob’s prophecy. This is because these `are the two most noticeable distinctive aspects of the anointing of God in the world of men, and is also the most manifest part of the essential relationship with God which is the anointing of God. It is praise which is the way we enter the courts of the Lord (Ps100) and is the way the presence of God is seen (walls of praise Isa ) The anointing is the presence and power of God through the Spirit of God.

Let us look at what Jacob has to say about Praise. In this we are looking at anointing in our speech. Worship, preaching, evangelism, blessing, spiritual warfare proclamation, teaching, testimony are all within the orbit of this anointing. For simplicity I have summarised all this by the word Judah (which in English means praise)

(1) “Praise” and authority go together (8b, 10). It shows in the church (v8) as the church recognises `the importance of praise and other ministries and gifts will give place to “praise” as there will be the recognition that God is in it. This is no more clear than in the area of worship, because this is relating to the Lord who is indeed the source of everything. The Presence of God is never far from the Authority of God . Praise defeats the enemy v8b(see 2 Chronicles 20:22);

(2) Praise operates out of the finished work of Jesus. “you return from the prey” v9. Praise operates out of something settled , achieved , done, accomplished. \This is supremely the cross and resurrection of Jesus, but also out of something we have known, something we have experienced or something we have recognised. What has happened has a real place for “Praise””.

(3) Praise is towards the Lord but is also blessing to the nations. The Judah anointing ushers in the kingdom through proclamation (cf Mark 1:15-16 Jesus came proclaiming the kingdom). The obedience of the nations is when the kingdom of God brings God’s will on the nations thus fulfilling the general promise given to Abraham that his offspring would be a blessing to the nations. The Kingdom opposes and undoes the work of the enemy and has authority to do so. The righteousness that the obedience to God’s will of the nation brings then exalts that nation.

(4) “Praise” operates within and beyond a church context .It is tethered (v11) to the corporate context (the vine is often used as a phrase for the people of God Isa 5; John 15). Praise in church and proclamation from a church. There will always be some church corporate context for this. Praise is so closely linked with the church that God’s plan is to make the church the praise of all the earth (Isa 62:7). On his own at the cross Jesus was the lamb; but in the church, He is the Lion of Judah bringing about the rule of God in the world.

(5) The anointing is attracted to the “choicest branch”. Praise dwells in what is good, it manifests at the best of times, in the richest of fare. Blessing is the context of this anointing flow

(6) “his eyes will be darker than wine; his teeth whiter than milk” The blessing of God that is brought (e.g. wine or milk), the “praise” anointing makes the blessing more distinct and clearer to others

Easter at St. Mark's - a Network Invite

2010-03-23T07:58:00.001Z

St Mark's are holding activities over Easter which the whole netowrk are wellocme to attend.

Good Friday Meditation

'At the cross'
A time of stillness.

The church will be open from 2pm to 4pm

This is a gentle time in which to meditate on the events of Good Friday.
There will be a free running PowerPoint presentation using Christian Art depicting the crucifixion, with some suggested prayers.

Also available, a selection of readings from the Church of England lectionary.

The slides take about half an hour, though people may stay for the whole two hours from 2pm to 4pm. Some will watch and pray the whole time, others will come and go quietly.

Kaleidoscope Easter Saturday 4pm to 5:30pm, St Mark's

A fun craft late afternoon, with the Easter story and ending with fish finger sandwiches.
This is aimed at primary school kids and any of their families. Kids under 7 will need to bring a responsible adult! Older kids can bring them if they want to!

ACTS 435

2010-03-12T13:32:00.003Z

For further information go to

www.acts435.com

or contact 01262 404100

October Conference at Bridlington Spa

2010-03-11T15:19:00.004Z

The October conference is officially launched………
See leaflet for your information.

The website http://www.christchurchconferences.com/ is open (though still being completed).
Please would you circulate this information to your contacts particularly if you have relationships with other churches.

BOOKING THE CONFERENCE>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Don’t book on the website but note that Christ Church Members can book for £25 (as opposed to £40) if booking before 30th April – bargain!!

Book with Andy Jefferson directly 01262 404100

We would really value Christ Church members being at the conference – not only will we receive great teaching but also be able to contribute to the workshops to the benefit of others.

Make a note in your diary!!!
Christ Church Conference October 7th -9th

"Finding life to change the world"
at the Spa Bridlington

enquiries to:
Andy Jefferson 01262 404100

Brid Brochure for Comp

iBethel.TV // Bethel Church // Sunday Night Worship : Feb 28 '10

2010-03-10T18:17:00.001Z

iBethel.TV // Bethel Church // Sunday Night Worship : Feb 28 '10

Destiny Africa Choir

2010-03-10T16:59:00.004Z

Destiny Africa children’s choir who are visiting Christ Church Bridlington on Wednesday 7th July 2010 at 7pm had a hugely successful tour in the USA in Autumn last year, where they performed at 86 venues and received standing ovations and astounding reviews everywhere they went!

SECOND UK TOUR…Destiny Africa are excited to be returning to the UK, performing throughout the country from the 9th May – 15th July.

The children will share their dreams and stories of hope though a lively mix of contemporary and traditional African songs, drumming and dances. Come and hear the inspiring sound of lives that have been given a new hope and a new start.

The children within the choir are between the ages of 8 and 16 years and have been rescued from horrific situations where they were facing abuse, neglect, starvation, sexual abuse and many were orphans. They have been rescued and now live at Kampala Children's Centre. Their lives have been transformed and now these children sing a new song, one of hope, restoration, freedom and Joy and they are bringing it on tour!

All proceeds from each performance will go to supporting the work of Kampala Children’s Centre: to rescue and save more precious children’s lives and give them the gift of a bright future. Find out more about Kampala Children Centre at:

http://www.kampalachildren.com/

If you are interested in Fundraisng in the lead up to this event on 7th July 2010 at Christ Church, Bridington, please contact 01262 404100

February News from Dan Clarke

2010-03-08T14:10:00.001Z

Week 1

All of the intern's arrived, there are 10 of us. 3 Brits, 1 Dutch, 1 Zambian, 4 South African's and 1 guy from Japan.
We went to a campsite called “Kimead” and would be based there for the majority of the AIS Training Course. (In the middle of no -where).
As none of us really knew each other before the course began, it all started with an “ice- breaker” / team building few days.
“Boot Camp” is what they called it.
It consisted of a lot of physical and mental tests, with very early morning fitness sessions which began on the blow of the dreaded whistle from Sergeant Heinrich, and also early spiritual sessions before breakfast. Boot Camp also had many other elements – trust games, and 5v5 team competitions. But none of this compared to what lay ahead.

The Wild Camp Night! Up till this point we had shared a dorm with 10 beds in. With warmth, a roof over our heads, solid walls to protect from the potential harsh conditions of the South African Weather.
But this was different. We walked about 3km on a nice sunny afternoon up into the hills to set up our tent to embark on hopefully a nice night below the stars, and so it began, we cooked a big stew, with everything we had brought up with us, meat, veggies, and potatoes. And after a long wait, we enjoyed the food and warm drinks. Around the fire we sat, singing worships songs, a just having a nice time, talking and having fun.
The time hits about 11, and the first few drops of rain fall. We decide to go into the tent and sleep. I got into my nice, warm sleeping bag. Within minutes the rain turned torrential and the unlucky ones who were slow got wet outside. The lightning lit up the whole lands, the thunder was deafening and the wind was destructive. So Leaving at least 10 cm depth puddles everywhere. We tried to sleep but when the water entered our sleeping bags and our whole bodies where soaked, we turn hysterical, and the singing began.
The only way to survive in our horrible condition was to all huddle together for warmth and sing. After nearly 5 hours of signing, we couldn't think of any songs that we hadn't already sung. Impossible to sleep, we decided we had enough, and when the rained lightened we would walk back to base camp in the pitch black. So away we went 3km back to the dorms to warmth and dry beds, leaving our rain beaten possessions behind. Eventually we arrived back, at about 5 in the morning. After only 2 hours sleep, the whistle blew, and another fitness session began. Needless to say, we weren’t in the mood. We had a day to recover, before our training started properly, with sessions on an “Intro to Sports Ministry”, “World View”, “Culture Difference” and so on.

Week 2
We left Kimead and went to stay at a place called “Newcastle” for a week, no not rainy, snowy, cold Newcastle from Northern England, but a town between Jo'berg and Durban. Here we did a coaching course, which taught us how to run life skills sessions that would link to football. On the Saturday and Sunday we ran outreaches in the town to practise what we had been taught. They went well, and despite the boiling sessions in a tin building, it was a good week.

Week 3 + 4
Back we went to Kimead and to the majority of our training. Luckily, this time instead of the dorm, we had 2 little house to live in, 4 in one house and 6 in the other house. It gave us a lot more freedom and our own rooms to sleep in. As well as a lounge to relax, in what rare free time we had. Luckily it had a TV and so I have been able to watch a few football games in the evenings.
The sessions that we studied were:
“Children's Ministry”, “Football Camps”, “Public Speaking”, “Leading People to Christ”, “Prison Ministry”, “Working with Churches”, “Youth Ministry”, “Drama”, “Mentoring and Discipleship”, “Spiritual Gifts and
We had another training outreach at our campsite, the Church I go to in Pretoria ran a weekend away for the Kid's Club to the campsite, and so for one afternoon, we ran a few football sessions and fun games, with them all and had a good time.

At the end of the course, we all went our separate ways, 2 guys went to Cape Town, 2 went to Durban, 2 went to Midrand, 1 to Soweto (Jo'berg) and 3 of us are at Pretoria. So it was pretty sad going to different parts of SA, after building such good relationships over the 4 weeks.

Week 5

Back to Pretoria, and to the last week of my training, TREC (Training, Resourcing and Equipping Coaches). A week of football coaching training, although I had been coaching for the last 4 months before Christmas, due to TREC's being cancelled due to lack of numbers, I have eventually completed TREC 1, after 4 days training, we all got assessed and I passed with Grade 1 (which is the highest mark) :). Although I have done coaching before, I feel it was still a good week, and I also learnt a lot of new training methods too. So it was a worthwhile week.

As for the Week 1- 4, it was very long and tiring, but good fun, and I learnt so much and it will hopefully equip me for the next 6 months and even the rest of me life.

But for now it is nice to be back to my home, and this morning was the first lie in for about 6 weeks, and I love my sleep!
Oh, and If you have been watching TV and have thought you might have seen me in a VISA advert, you are indeed correct in thinking so. Or if you haven’t check out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8PUsX75OXg J.

Keep up with the prayers,
Dan

February Photos _word 97-2003

Bishop of Hull Pictures from St Andrew's, Ulrome Visit Sunday 7th March 2010

2010-03-08T08:55:00.005Z

ULROME:
Geographical and Historical information from the year 1892.

The church of St. Andrew is an ancient structure, built of cobbles, with cut stone dressings, in the Early English style, on the site of an earlier edifice, supposed to have been erected before the Conquest. It consists of chancel, nave, south porch, and a western tower containing one bell. The nave and chancel were rebuilt in 1876-7, at a cost of £900, raised by subscription. All the old material was incorporated in the new work, and the inside walls faced with brick. One of the original Perpendicular windows remains in the chancel; all the others are modern. There is a small stained glass memorial window, representing the patron saint, in the south wall of the chancel. The roofs are open and boarded. The tower rises very little above the ridge of the nave, and presents a stunted appearance. The font is circular, and is believed to be coeval with the church. The nave is fitted with open benches of pitchpine, to seat 105 persons. A chantry was founded in this church at an early period, but by whom is not known. Ulrome was formerly a chapelry, with all parochial privileges, except burial. The registers date from 1710. The living is a vicarage, gross value £142 per annum, including 22 acres of glebe, in the gift of, and held by the Rev. Edward Arthur Tickell, M.A., of Balliol College, Oxford.

[Description(s) from Bulmer's History and Directory of East Yorkshire (1892)]

The Vicar writes...

2010-03-05T13:04:00.001Z

Dear All,

God’s purpose for us is that we enjoy our salvation. The enemy’s plan is we do not receive salvation and if we do then he tries to stop us enjoying it. Joy is the means by which we draw up the blessings salvation offers (Isa 12) and is also the way our salvation becomes contagious to those we meet. Satan sometimes uses hardship outwardly, but this is not his main weapon . What he uses most is accusation about our past or our present, and when he brings difficulties, he will be accusing us by saying it is our fault, and there is nothing we can do about it. That is not true. Jesus is always bigger than any problem. He has a plan. Our past is irrelevant to the Christian being able to receive and move in the salvation Jesus brings to us through his death and resurrection. The only issue is our faith and how much we are willing to receive of His Spirit.

We enjoy our salvation because Jesus has forgiven us. When we asked Jesus to forgive us and rule our life, He has done just that. We do not need to be better; just people who walk with Jesus in life.

Romans 7:1-6 reminds us that before we found Jesus as our saviour, our reference point was not Jesus but the law. This law dominated us whether we were trying to obey it by being good, trying our best; or whether we were being rebels doing the opposite of what we knew others would expect. Both ways wound us and make us empty inside.

What is worse, the law may give us good instructions but no help, so we feel even further alienated from any hope of being different. Paul in Romans 7 likens it to being married to a husband who is no help but always correct and from whom we cannot be divorced and as the law `never dies, we cannot even look forward to being free through his death. The answer to this is that we die instead…. we become a Christian and enter a new life. Paul states we died to the law through belonging to Christ.

Our life has now a new reference point, not the law of the past with its priorities and snobberies; its guilt and regrets; its obligations and responsibilities; its rules and divisions. Our reference frame is our relationship with Jesus. We must not commit spiritual adultery by going back to our first husband the law. Just as we received Jesus we are to live in him (Colossians 3:6). No more “ I must be a good Christian”; instead thankfulness at the cross. No more doing without receiving; instead receiving God’s favour and moving in His will. No more doing anything to please men, but only to please God;

People around us may view us initially as if there is no change, but as we move in our new life in Christ, they will gradually notice a difference. This may not, in the beginning, always be welcome or seen for what it is, but God will be at work in those we meet and in most cases brings a blessing. Eventually as we continue in the new life we have found in Jesus, others begin to get the good news too! Don’t let anyone rob you of the joy that is yours in Jesus!! (John 15:11, 16:22,24, 17:13)

Jonathan Couper

PS Don’t forget the passion play!!

Radio One's Chris Moyles - Interesting Discussion on Church

2010-03-04T12:45:00.001Z

The Anointing

2010-03-04T12:44:00.003Z

The Anointing

Introduction to the Anointing of Jesus—A Recap

Christ is a word which means Anointed. Jesus demonstrated this anointing as He taught, prophesied and healed people, raised others from the dead, fed thousands with just a few loaves and fish, changed water into wine and rebuked the wind and waves. This same anointing is available for all those who are in Christ ( after all we are Christians who have the opportunity to move in the presence of the anointing. The gospels and the book of Acts show us the results of being in that anointing. The Holy Spirit is the source of this anointing made available to us through the death and resurrection of Jesus. The anointing blesses us, but this is not the primary focus. The anointing brings about God’s purpose in us and through us. We as creatures align to the Creator through the anointing. We also bear the family likeness as the anointing changes us from glory to glory. We are all in process and there is always more to discover, but over the next few pages, I hope to write section by section about the ingredients of this anointing.

In Genesis 49 we see that the anointing of God has a 12 -fold nature which relates to the Hebrew meaning of the twelve sons of Jacob (Jacob was God’s choice to found the community of Israel and in this chapter He is giving a fatherly blessing over this community and in so doing bringing prophetic revelation about the anointing which is given to the people of God by the Holy Spirit)

Name (Hebrew Meaning)
Reuben (Seeing)
Simeon (Hearing)
Levi (Intimacy)
Judah (Praise)
Zebulan (Dwelling)
Issachar (Reward)
Dan (Assessment)
Gad (Gathering)
Asher (Joy)
Naphetali (Struggle)
Joseph (Fruitfulness)
Benjamin (Sonship)

1. Seeing (Reuben)

The first ingredient is Seeing. The anointing breaks through veil satan has placed over our minds
(2 Cor 6); the veil of death which tries to keep us from seeing the light of the glory of God in the face of Jesus.

Without the anointing we have no light and thus no sight. The anointing brings revelation to our hearts. Scripture becomes astoundingly clear and relevant. Life also looks different. We also find what we see has a relational dimension with God and when that happens it becomes precious to us. Jesus by contrast described those moving in scriptural truth without anointing, as being blind guides who lead themselves and others into a ditch. Without God’s revelation, everything is supposition. Seeing is the first thing we need to move in.

Jesus could only do what he saw the Father doing (John 5:19). We as Christians should expect to see what others cannot see, and this comes not from our rational intelligence but from our relationship with God in which the anointing flows to us and through us. In this context we will also see with words of knowledge, words of wisdom, prophecy as well as seeing some of the supernatural dimensions around us. In the fathers house we all have a room with a view

This month we look at Hearing and Intimacy

2. Hearing (Simeon) & 3. Intimacy (Levi)

Genesis 49:5-7
Hearing and Seeing are designed to go together. Simeon and Levi are brethren..

In general, we hear in the intimate place with God, and we are intimate with God when we are hearing from him. Abide in me and if my word abides in you....

But this is not all Jacob says about this, they are brethren because they have the same result ...zeal.. Our self life can easily skew this anointing from the Lord (see verse 6).. The following verses are often only explained in the behaviour or Levi and Simeon in Genesis 34, but I think this misses the point about the lessons from this aspect of the anointing.

The human spirit receives zeal through hearing and through intimacy, and it is zeal through which the government of the Lord is seen (Isa 9:6). But this can easily become anger or wrath. Instead of building God’s Kingdom we do the opposite. It is because of the dangers zeal can bring that Jacob continues with some helpful reminders when we are in the place of intimacy and hearing from God.

(a) Intimacy and hearing can bring about zeal which destroys rather than builds up. instruments of cruelty are in their habitations . We can be attackers of those who have not heard what we have heard or who do not belong to us. Our soul, whilst it will abide in private communion with God and hear from him, must have a focus beyond just hearing and intimacy (for example mission, or serving or relationships) my soul, come not thou into their secret; unto their assembly.

(b) God’s glory is not carried on our hearing or intimacy. It is on our obedience and character
O, mine honour, be not thou united: for in their anger they slew a man, and in their self-will
they digged down a wall. Many church divisions or wars over religion started with genuine
hearing from God and intimacy with God, but the response was in our self will ..e.g. the wars resulting from the reformation or the putting down of one church or Christian by those who are spiritual and moving with God.

(c) Being angry or wrath does not bring a blessing. Cursed be their anger, for it was fierce; and their wrath, for it was cruel: For example someone can go to a conference and hear from God or be close to Him and come back in fierceness or wrath at the shortfalls in the worship or teaching and achieve little.

I will divide them in Jacob, and scatter them in Israel.
In the church of God both in the times when church is weak (Jacob) and when it is moving in authority (Israel), this aspect of the anointing (hearing or intimacy) are not concentrated, but present in every resultant manifestation of the anointing ( i.e. part of church life and mission). In the anointing there are times when God speaks and times when God overwhelms us by His presence. These rarely are together. We can be close to God in our Bible Study and then hear God while we are about our daily chores, or we can hear God without being overwhelmed by Him. This is deliberate so that we can continue to move in the anointing.

When Ezekiel is overwhelmed by God’s presence, so he falls over (Ezekiel 1: 28—2:1), God refuses to speak to Him until he stands up, thus moving out of that place of intimacy. By contrast in Ezekiel 3, when he is intimate with God and God speaks to him, he describes his emotional state as “ I went in bitterness in the heat of my Spirit, but the hand of the Lord was strong upon me (Ezekiel 3: 14). We cannot forget that when Jesus had an intimate encounter with the Spirit and heard God speak together at his baptism, it is no surprise that He was driven by the Spirit into the wilderness. This is why in most cases intimacy and hearing are separate in our experience as we move in the powerful anointing of God

Jonathan Couper

Kampala Children's Centre Uganda Fundraiser

2010-03-04T12:37:00.002Z

Christ Church Wednesday 7th July at 7pm

To help raise funds for the Kampala Children’s Centre in Uganda, Christ Church has booked a performance from Destiny Africa Children’s Choir. In 2008, the Choir toured Great Britain concluding with a performance at 10 Downing Street before Prime Minister Gordon Brown. We are hoping individuals/groups/projects within the Network may be interested in fundraising for the Children’s Centre prior to the event.

For the website visit http://www.kampalachildren.com/
There will be no charge for entry, but we want to try to raise as much money as possible

Ruth the UK Tour Co-ordinator writes:

“The actual performance is created in Uganda. The show includes live singing, traditional dances, a cultural show (informs the audience a bit about the culture of Uganda), testimonies from some of the children - shown on a video, drumming, the children share their dreams, and a short video about the vision of Kampala children's centre. Most of the songs have been written by the children themselves and many of the dances have parts made up by the children. Most of the songs are about God and display his faithfulness and great compassion, mercy and love (some of the songs are English, some are in different languages) They are totally inspirational!”

Please keep this date free in your diary for what should be an exciting evening! (Watch the Video!)

The vision behind the Kampala Children’s Centre is to house, educate and care for at least 1000 orphans from within Uganda and to give a safe and loving environment to at least 1000 children from war torn areas, slums and AIDS affected families.

www.kampalachildren.com for further details

Would you like to assist with the organisation of this event or help to support it financially
by raising funds personally or through your project or making a donation. If so contact Steve Frazer 01262 404100

Here is a video of them performing at !0 Downing St for Gordon Brown

Wilberforce Academy for students and young professionals

2010-03-01T11:54:00.001Z

Calling the next generation of lawyers, politicians, journalists, civil servants, and all who want to make a difference in public life. The inaugural ‘Wilberforce Academy’, March 21st to 26th 2010, will be a residential week of lectures, seminars, worship, devotions, and interactive discussions, designed to help students and young professionals become a generation of men and women who ‘Passionately Demonstrate Truth’. Please do draw this to the attention of anyone in your congregation you think might be interested – full details at

http://www.ccfon.org/docs/Wilberforce_Academy_Flyer.pdf

Womens World Day of Prayer

2010-03-01T11:42:00.000Z

WOMEN'S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

Let Everything That Has Breath Praise God

A Service Prepared by Christian Women of Cameroon

Friday 5th March 2010

ALL WELCOME - MEN WOMEN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

2pm
Our Lady and St. Peter’s Church
Speaker: Sister Susan Tyler

7pm
Sewerby Methodist Church
Speaker: Mrs Vicky Jackson

Bethel Morning Worship : Feb 28 '10 with Kathyrn Scott

2010-02-28T23:18:00.001Z

Kathryn Scott from Causeway Coast Vineyard, Coleraine recording her new album live at Bethel Church, Redding today

iBethel.TV // Bethel Church // Sunday Morning Worship : Feb 28 '10

Christ Church Notices 280210

2010-02-26T10:23:00.000Z

Christ Church Notices 280210

View more presentations from Christ Church.

Str Andrew's Ulrome

2010-02-25T14:18:00.002Z

Sunday 7th March 11.00am Bishop of Hull Visit

Monday 8th March 7.00pm St Andrew, Ulrome AGM

Thursdays 25th Feb to 25th March 10.00am to 11.30am Lent Course at Rickaby Hall
“The Heart of the Christian Life” Coffee & Biscuits served.

Sunday 4th April. Easter Day Communion Service 9am (no 11am service Easter Sunday)

EVERYONE WELCOME AT THESE EVENTS

Needed: KEYBOARD MUSICIAN for 2nd & 4th Sundays 11.00am at St Andrews, Ulrome
01262 404100 for details

Can a man find peace in Santiago?

2010-02-25T13:24:00.001Z

Can a man find peace in Santiago?
Do women still dream in San Jose?
Is there hope for all?
Why does life forestall?
What do philosophers say?

Can a boy find truth in Cincinnati?
Did men ever laugh in old Pompeii?
Will there be a feast,
For the good or least?
What do the orators say?

Refrain:

So what can you tell a man with no heart -
When things of life are blown far and apart?
Where are the answers to bring us some cheer -
Do prophets still paint with shabby veneer?
But still the Son shines, with His light and heat,
As peace, truth and love walk down your street.
Let peace, truth and love walk through your feet.

Can a child find love in Casablanca?
Does the road still lead to Mandalay?
When is the trial,
For those in denial?
Who has the ultimate say?

Is it a long way to Tipperary?
Will our road lead on to God’s Great Day?
Will there be a crown,
Or a fearful frown?
When God has the final say!

Refrain:

© Neil Mackay Theta Publications Sept. 2001/June 2009/Feb. 2010

Mens' Breakfast

2010-02-23T11:21:00.001Z

A Mens Breakfast
at the Rugby Club, Bridlington

Saturday 24th April at 8-30am to 10-00am.
Cost £4 each.

Please come along and if able bring a friend. Names please to be left at the Key Centre Reception 01262 404100 for the attention of Roger Gale

Martongate Community Church

2010-02-23T10:31:00.000Z

During Lent here at Martongate our sermon theme is what is, and how do we become Disciples of Jesus Christ. Whilst at the 6-00pm service at Christ Church a few months ago I was thinking about the difference between Passive believers in Jesus and disciples of Jesus when into my thoughts was that to get from a Believer (passive) to a Disciple we have to go from a B to a D which means passing through C, and therefore to get from a Believer (passive) to a Disciple the steps could begin with a C.

So by the end of the service I had in place that some of the steps should include the Cross of Jesus, the Character of Jesus, the Compassion of Jesus and we may need to take a different angle on the Church of Jesus if we are to become true disciples and serve.
Cross of Jesus (Spiritual Maturity)

The Cross of Jesus is a stumbling block to many, because it is about letting go of our own needs and trusting in Jesus for everything. Jesus says in Luke ch 14 v 27 ‘If you do not carry your own cross and follow me you cannot be my disciple’, and in John ch 12 v 24 ‘I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone, but its death will produce many new kernels- a plentiful harness of new lives.’ These are just two of the many references that Jesus makes to the cross. It is pivotal to our walk with him, yes it means Change, yes it means being Convicted of our own frailty and sins, yes it means Comittment, yes it means a Conversion takes place as you lay it all at the foot of the cross, yes it means Challenge.
Character (Life to life support)

But without the process of accepting the Cross of Jesus into our lives we cannot see how we can become more like the character of Jesus, 2 Corinthians ch 3 v 18 So all who have had the veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord, Mother Teresa said “ We must become holy not because we want to feel holy but because Christ must be able to live His life fully in us”. We sometimes need a helping hand going through this area as we come to terms with our new life and that is why the mentoring scheme at Christ Church is so helpful.
Compassion (Mission)

The Greek word for Compassion is Splancthna, which means not heart but bowels, so when it says in Matthew ch9 v 36 ‘When He (Jesus) saw the crowds he had compassion on them because they were confused without a shepherd’. Jesus saw his mission and the compassion deep down in His very gut made Him weep for the lost, this is at the heart of mission
Church of Jesus (outreach)

The church of Jesus, doesn’t occur only on Sunday, God is not separate from the Church neither is the Church separate from the world we live in, rather God, Church, World are all linked into each other as the Cross of Jesus, the character of Jesus and the compassion of Jesus, formulate our lives where nobody can see the join, where everything overlaps, which eventually will lead us into becoming true disciples of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Roger

Mums & Tots meet in Bridlington North Library on the 2nd and 4th Friday of the month from 9.15 to 11.45 a.m. This is a Social get together for mums with soft play for pre-school children.

Signpost meets on the 4th Friday of the month at Bridlington North Library from 1.30 to 3p.m.. All Senior Citizens are welcome to call in to reminisce, chat or seek help.

The Mens Fellowship meets every other Wednesday (10th & 24th March). All retired men who live in the Martongate Area or attend Martongate Church are more than welcome. For further information contact Roger through Christ Church.

The Curate writes…

2010-02-23T08:03:00.000Z

The Kingdom of Christ and God, see Ephesians 5 verse 3. What does it mean in practice?

Paul’s writing uses words and phrases which spark off other ideas, or link with other big themes, or remind us of other things. It’s a good idea to look out for such phrases. For example, in John’s gospel, there are references to ‘third day’ or ‘my time’ or ‘light’. In our lives its true in smaller ways. So if I say what do you think of when I say the word ‘snow’ – then loads of memories come to the fore.

One of Paul’s phrases (and Jesus too!!!) is Kingdom of God, or Kingdom of Heaven. Look at Jesus teaching in Matthew Mark Luke Acts – there is loads of it.

Over the years, people have had a tendency to think of heaven in terms of ‘with God after I die’ (which is true!) or basically, just living Godly, kind lives this side of the grave, such as Christian Aid’s slogan ‘we believe in life before death’ (which is also true). Scripture does include those, but has a much bigger view even than both of them being true. They are linked.

In recent teaching in Christchurch and St Mark’s, that linking comes out in ‘bringing heaven to earth and earth to heaven’. And it comes out in ‘being in-line with the cross’ with a sort of view of two hands being directly in line so God’s loving merciful power can flow, or perhaps like two pipes being lined up.

Paul is referring to that with His little phrase ‘in the Kingdom of Christ and God’, other translations say in the Kingdom of Messiah and Kingdom of God’.

It’s all of these in the next sentence. Living in God’s world on earth, in God’s ways, with Him’. Like Jesus the Christ, the anointed or enabled one did. Ordinary life is spiritual. Living it His way has beneficial ordinary effects and beneficial spiritual effects – but actually they cannot be separated. So stealing mucks up lives and relationships on earth – but it also gets in the way of intimate relationship with God. Sex outside marriage does the same, all immorality does. So does greed. We know this. The confession we say every week includes those ideas. So does our summary of the commandments love God with all our heart soul mind and strength – and love our neighbour as ourselves.

So, if with those thoughts, you read Ephesians 5: 1- 10 again, you can see it all hangs together. By not living ‘in Christ’s kingdom’ by not living his ways on earth, we miss out on a fulfilling life ourselves, mess up relationship with others near and far (say by materialism affecting world economies and families being in poverty) we miss out on intimacy with Father God now. – (If any are wondering why ‘kingdom of God’ is not mentioned in John’s gospel apart from chapter 3, well it is, but with a different phrase. In John’s Gospel, this is summed up in the phrase eternal life, also translated ‘the life of the ages’ – the life that all generations long for and that also is ‘knowing Father God’ both sides of the grave.)

All of our lives, lived generously, mercifully, thankfully for example, in imitation of Jesus, in the nitty gritty, whether secret generosity or kindness, or prayer is of great value in pleasing God Our Father as well as opening up heaven to be seen by our neighbours. We naturally mourn for their lack of knowledge of God, their not being in His family. And as the beatitudes says ‘blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted’.

There is something else which is important in the title Christ. Its not Jesus surname, it is a description. Christ means anointed or enabled one. Jesus was enabled by the Holy Spirit to do all he did bringing God’s Kingdom in heaven to earth. And soon after Pentecost, Jesus followers were called Christians. At the end of Luke’s gospel we read I am sending on you what my Father promised. But stay here in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high." Luke 24:49

To know and show the Good News, we need to be clothed with power from on high like Jesus. Those first 120 or so, waiting in Jerusalem would have been aligning themselves with God’s purposes even though they didn’t really know what they were at that stage. They were saying a big yes to God, and were answered gracefully and powerfully. We don’t know the names of the vast majority, that doesn’t matter. It’s the fruit that counts. Life burst out in so many ways. For Peter for example, there was more than he could handle. The 3,000 after that first sermon wouldn’t have known each other, or everything going on – but they were part of it. It may well be like that too as we seek the Kingdom of Jesus Christ the Messiah and God’s kingdom, as we seek to be clothed with power from on high.

News in Brief

2010-02-22T15:11:00.003Z

James 5 v 16
The effective fervent prayer of the righteousness avails much

God Shall Heal Our Nation…

This was the title for the Yorkshire Prayer Conference last August.

We know that nothing happens without faithful pray...ers. We are trying to locate prayer groups within our church network, so that we can access information as to know what the Holy Spirit is speaking through the groups to the church.

Our church is involved in a prayer Weekend at Bawtry Hall on the 9th — 11th April 2010 for a weekend of prayer. Your input could be valuable.

If you meet to pray in groups, no matter how small, we would like to hear from you. So please let Christina Denton know about your group.

Jason, Stacey, big brother T.J and big sister Taffie would like to invite you to celebrate the Baptism of Tessie Smith on the 21st March at the family service.

There will be drinks and cake after the service. We hope to see you there
The Smith Family

Easter Flowers

If anyone would like to contribute towards the Easter Flowers and lilies in remembrance of a loved one please see Ann Blackburn. Please DO NOT place envelopes containing any money in the pigeon holes
Thanks
You
Ann Blackburn

Thursday Evening Bible Study (11’O’clock service and anyone who wants to come) with Jonathan and Anne Couper in Key Centre Reception Lounge 7pm to 8pm. Everyone welcome. You do not need to be part of the 11am service on Sunday to come. Just turn up!

NOTIFICATION OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING — CHRIST CHURCH BRIDLINGTON PCC

This is to draw your attention to the Annual General Meeting of the Christ Church Bridlington Parochial
Church Council which will be held on Tuesday 23rd March at Christ Church commencing at 7.30pm.

Agenda
1. Opening Prayer
2. Apologies for Absence
3. Minutes of 2009 Annual General Meeting
4. Appointment of Tellers
5. Presentation of Electoral Roll
6. Election of Wardens
7. Election of Parochial Church Council
8. Reports
· Treasurer’s Report
(then selection of Financial Auditors)
· Vicar’s Report
· Fabric Report
· Deanery Synod Report
9. Any Other Business

Copies of the last AGM Minutes will be distributed at the AGM.

Every year at the AGM we elect 2 churchwardens from our membership and this year we also need to elect 4 new PCC members.

PCC members John Reddington, Mark Beckitt, and Ben Couper have each served three years and will now under church rules step-down. Current PCC members still serving are (years left to serve in brackets): Pauline Jones (1), Christine Lyle (2), Clare Sturgess (2), Alistair Robertson (2) and Michael Hart (2)

Our Churchwardens Mark Granton and Frank Tuffee will automatically step-down at the AGM as this is an annual election. They may stand for re-election if you ask them!

There are 4 vacancies for members of the PCC. Each person elected will be required to serve 3 years each.

To nominate people to be Churchwarden or PCC member
1. Ask them if they are willing to stand for election
2. Only if they are willing to stand for election, fill-in in nomination form to be found at the back of church (near the main door and the sound desk)

Each candidate must be on the Electoral Roll which is currently being revised. The revised roll will be displayed in the church at least two weeks before the AGM. Candidates must also have signed the Christ Church Network Commitment (values) form. Those proposing also must be on the Electoral Roll of Christ Church.

The New Marriage Course

Starts Monday May 10th
running for 7 weeks.

Further information from Key Centre Reception 01262 404100 or Information Desk back of church.

The Under Fives Outreach team is running a coffee morning and table top sale on the morning of Saturday 3rd April 2010.

If you would like to book a table they are available at £5 each but numbers are limited and likely to sell out quickly so please book early if you would like a table by contacting Moira Jefferson on 404100.

Romanian Coffee Morning
SATURDAY THE 17TH OF APRIL FROM 10 AM TILL 2PM

WE ARE HOPING TO HAVE A CAKE STALL (To be held in the foyer) AND WOULD BE VERY GRATEFUL TO YOU IF YOU CAN BAKE US A CAKE
THIS IS ALSO A TIME TO WELCOME MARIN, MONICA, ALEX AND DORRINA, TWO COUPLES FROM ROMANIA WHO WILL BE SPENDING A FEW DAYS WITH US .

CLAIRE STURGESS IS GOING TO ORGANIZE THIS EVENT SO PLEASE CONTACT HER VIA RECEPTION 01262 404100
SHE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU.

Christ Church Practical Skills Team
For Sale

Variety of Bird and Bat Boxes

Designs to accommodate blue tits, sparrows and robins

Prices from £6

Contact Christ Church Reception
01262 404100

MEETING PLACE At Home
Christ Church Forecourt
MONDAY 1st March & 12th APRIL*
1.45 - 3.30pm
All Ladies Welcome!
Short talk with refreshments
Contact Anne Couper
Margaret Walker &
Rosemary Gillespie
01262 404100

Womens' Weekly
March 2nd Joy Hensman (Talk on Zimbabwe)
March 9th Brenda Fermor (Traidcraft)
March 16th Gathering together meeting
March 23rd Jonathan Couper
March 30th No meeting closed for Easter Holidays.

Prayer in a teacup

2010-02-22T15:10:00.001Z

Prayer in a teacup

A nice cup of tea!

How I relish its versatility.
The way it restores and revives me in the morning.,
Calms and comforts me as I prepare for bed,
Shared so easily with friends, consolingly familiar when
I’m alone,
It’s warmth a constant blessing.

And I take it all for granted, forgetting the miracle of
growth and harvest,
The painstaking labour that brings it to my cup,
The way this everyday drink connects me to people all
Round the world.

As I add water to my tea
to release all it’s goodness, all its potential,
so I pray for the splash of your living water in my life,
Lord,
releasing all I have to offer in your name.

As I drink my tea, sweetened with your love,
bless those for whom it is a livelihood,
and stir up in me your thirst for justice.
Amen

Now, just let me put on kettle…!

____________________________________________________________

This is a poem from Traidcraft

Traidcraft produce can be purchased every Wednesday in the Beacon Cafe

The PCC

2010-02-22T15:08:00.000Z

What Is the PCC?
The PCC (Parochial Church Council) is the local elected body of our church members who meet monthly in the capacity of Trustees.

What does the PCC do?
The PCC works together with the Vicar to take forward our mission in all its forms and decides upon our policies and priorities for the year. It discusses many aspects of the life of the church, as it seeks to plan for the future, and also has certain legal responsibilities.

When and where does the PCC meet?
The Christ Church PCC normally meets once per month on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7.15pm in the Board Room

When are PCC members elected?
Elections take place at our Christ Church Annual Meeting, which this year is on Tuesday 23rd March at 7.30pm

Useful Dates 2010

2010-02-22T15:06:00.000Z

Equipped to Live Saturday 19th June 9.30am to 4pm

Bawtry Hall Friday 9th April to Sunday 11th April

Epiphany Conference Friday 30th April & Saturday 1st May

Releasing The Kingdom Conference with Andy Hall
Friday 14th May 7.30pm & Saturday 15th May 9.30am to 4pm

Leaders Day Saturday 12th June 9.30am to 12.30pm

New! Small Group Leaders Saturday 12th June 1.30pm to 4.30pm

Confirmation Sunday 20th June 6pm

PCC AGM Tuesday 23rd March 7.30pm

CCS AGM Tuesday 11th May 7.30pm

Honouring The Anointing of God — Conference Friday 9th & Saturday 10th July with Jonathan Couper

Bible History School with Jonathan Couper
Fri 13th Aug, Mon 16th Aug, Fri 20th Aug, Mon 23rd Aug 7pm to 8.30pm

Yorkshire Prayer Conference Sat 11th September

“Finding life to change the world” Conference at the Spa 7th to 9th October
(See back page)

Leaders Day Saturday 6th November 9.30am to 12.30pm in main church

Further details of these events will be in future editions of Network News

A Bible study on John 10

2010-02-22T15:05:00.000Z

The shepherd operates through invitation followed by process (v3), but so does thieves and robbers. . They can appear like shepherds. They look spiritual, get into the church in some way, say things that are nice to hear, and invite you to meetings but their fruit is the sheep no longer belong to the flock, and eventually the spiritual life of the sheep is affected to the point that eventually it is destroyed.

Jesus said you cannot tell the difference by what they say or by how they act. You can only tell by the direction from which they come “ The shepherd enters by the gate (v2), the man who does not enter by the gate, but climbs in some other way is a thief and a robber” (v1).

So what does that look like for us
beware of someone with an agenda to prosper his own “calling”
beware of someone who invites you to a group meeting which is away from the shepherd’s oversight, even if the teaching sounds great or the worship is stunning.
beware of someone who says he is the shepherd’s representative, but does things which oppose the direction the shepherd is leading the rest of the flock
beware of someone who invites you to a meeting which means you cannot belong to the flock either because of timing or ethos.
Beware of someone who in their attitude try to separate you from the shepherd. They might say things of concern about the church or the leaders, or might have so called spiritual dreams which cause them to sow seeds of doubt about your belonging to the church.

When you see this, you recognise the voice of a stranger rather than a shepherd and the power of the deception is broken (v5).

The true shepherd is Jesus (yes indeed!!!) but He is also the gate. No self styled shepherd gets through the gate; only those who are responding to the call of God and this shows outwardly on the earth in ordination/ appointment. The shepherd then has a responsibility to enter into the inheritance brought about by that recognition/ordination and so God’s purposes then become manifest and the sheep are blessed.

Jonathan

Prayer Requests

2010-02-22T15:04:00.000Z

Please pray for…
(a) Easter Services throughout the Network
(b) The Nursery
(c) Trisha Wicks in Sudan
(d) Network Pastors
(e) for those ill If you know of anyone who is ill please inform reception
(f) Traxs
(g) Practical Skills
(h) Boys’ Brigade
(i) Preparations for Christian Conference at the Spa in October
(k) Meeting Place
(l) Martongate
(m) Preparations for the Passion Play
(n) Bridlington Community would become more aware of the True meaning of Easter Training Courses in the Key Centre

Springboard 2010

2010-02-22T15:03:00.001Z

SPRINGBOARD 2010

Anne had a picture of an escalator going upwards which became a river flowing downwards. We believe God is taking us onto a new level from which God’s blessing is being poured among us. Part of this new level is in the area of ministry beyond our current boundaries. Some of you may be aware we are holding a conference in the Spa in October where we hope to welcome many from other parts of the UK (and Europe), but before that there is a weekend Jonathan and Anne are holding in Bawtry where people are coming from all over the UK.

This is gaining more significance not only because of the good numbers coming, but also because of the quality of Christian disciple, and the varying positions they occupy of influence in our nation and the world. God is birthing something (but we are not yet clear what). In addition there are signs of partnerships being formed between us and some churches outside the Bridlington area, and we have an opportunity to influence for good people and situations far beyond the boundaries of Bridlington.

Combined with this we are starting leaders training days (first one June 12th) for all leaders of any small group/project/church which would want to benefit. We think this might be linked to a plan God may have for us to be one of the resource churches for the nation at this time. The network is at the heart of all this, and no doubt finance will follow what we are doing. What I am asking you to do is to join with us in “priming the pump” for this regional side of our ministry.

We are launching SPRINGBOARD 2010. You buy a share by agreeing to contribute £10 a month for a year (or more). You can buy as many shares as you like. The money raised through Springboard 2010 will be used by the PCC only to facilitate revival in our nation, and would be initially focused on helping with the leaders days and the October conference. This is, however just the start. If you feel God is calling you to contribute to this, it will bring about blessing for the many.

01262 404100 for Springboard Forms or e-mail info@christchurchbridlington.co.uk

Releasing the Kingdom Conference

2010-02-22T14:58:00.002Z

Releasing the Kingdom 3 - 14th & 15th May 2010

This is the third conference done by Andy Hall looking at the basics of Kingdom lifestyle. It aims to equip us to see what's it involved for us, as we move from a church based Christendom model off faith, to a world engaging transforming version of the faith. This conference will continue to look at ways in which The Father wants to extend His Kingdom on the earth through us. We will be looking father into signs wonders authority and prayer under the four titles:

1. Kingdom come - From heaven to earth; switching our view to see thongs from Gods perspective!

2. Kingdom come -The government shall be on His shoulders. How much and how, does God expect us to rule on the earth?

3. Kingdom come - A church without spot or blemish. Do you have a "little church" mentality or a "victorious overcoming church" mentality. What's the Father working towards?

4. Kingdom come - power evangelism; Jesus hallmarked the ministry of the Kingdom with signs wonders and deliverance. Is such a ministry possible for me today and how do I get into it?

If you have not attended the first two don't worry this material will stand on its own. There will be plenty of time for response and prayer ministry and worship during the weekend. We fully expect the Kingdom to come and be manifested in the ways we are speaking about as indeed it has at the two previous conferences

Andy Hall is a bible teacher and evangelist based in The Lighthouse Church in Ayrshire. He travels widely nationally and internationally speaking on the Kingdom and seeking to equip motivate and mobilize believers to be effective agents of change in their communities. He is part of the leadership of CLAN Gathering Conference (New Wine in Scotland) and also serves as the chairman of Leaders together for Scotland. He is married to Yvonne who is a pioneering evangelist with Healing Rooms in Scotland and they have two daughters at University in Scotland

You can see more of Andy's ministry at www.equippedtolivenetwork.org.

Booking forms for Releasing The Kingdom 3 are available from Christ Church Reception 01262 404100

Dan Clarke in Visa World Cup Ad

2010-02-22T10:33:00.002Z

Look out for Dan Clarke in the Visa South Africa World Cup Advert near the end!

The Vicar writes...

2010-02-05T15:37:00.002Z

Dear All,

Your inner world matters. We all have one. It is the place where our self esteem lives; where our inner thoughts dwell, and the place from which our hopes and dreams come.. There are times when our inner world is disturbed. This happens in disappointments, in betrayals and in personal crises.....that is anytime when life becomes personal. It is not just present events that can do this. The past has the capacity to disturb our present inner world and fears of the future can also do the same. Sometimes present events link us to difficult times in our past when our inner world was disturbed and it happens all over again. At such times the outer world becomes more essential for us.

All of us need a reference point and when our inner world cannot give this, we need some external point we can trust. At such times, solid Friends, Family, Church or routine might be a help. Prayer is always valuable as a steadying influence on our inner world, but we may need external help too. Pastoral support can walk with you as your inner world reaches a place of balance. Belonging to a church congregation, developing a spiritual discipline of prayer and bible study and joining a small group in the good times can all be essential if life turns sour for us. It will mean we have a better chance of getting through the trial unscathed.

Sometimes we do not recognise our inner world is being disturbed so we do not address it early enough. Let me give you some possible warning signs

(a) a need to be in control

(b) a distrust of the motives of previously faithful friends

(d) inability to relate to God in worship

(e) a proneness to being a recluse

(f) cannot cope with any change however good it may be

(g) difficulty in decision making

(h) difficulty in talking

(i) inability to honour others

(j) tendency to be negative or critical and thanksgiving seems hollow

(k) find it difficult to receive help

(l) you feel a distance between what you are as a Christian outwardly and what you are inwardly

We are still responsible for the choices we make. Here is some advice.

(a) Don’t stretch out into the new until you are settled on the inside. Important things can always wait. And it is seldom that urgent and important match.

(b) Hold to the old routines that you know are safe and good even when you do not want to.

(c) Avoid withdrawal, This can be like a drug that feels good but returns to sting you. Withdrawal also opens the way for addictions and other unhelpful choices to bring “comfort”

(d) recognise that you might not see things as they really are, so do not act on what you think until you have reached a place of rest inside.

When life in our outer world is tough we retreat to our inner world. Jesus designs us that way. We must however develop our inner world to match our outer world. Many adults fail to do this. They leave any focus on their inner world behind and continue though to develop their outer world. This is one of the reasons why so many find life crashing around them

Some Christian leaders have been stretched in their outer world into revival, or further Christian ministry, but their inner world was not developed to match this new outer world and into the gap between their inner and outer world, comfort addictions grew to their eventual downfall.

God is calling us to develop our inner world. He is calling us to pray together; to study the bible, to trust one another as friends, to gather as a network, and to be bold in all we do.. We have prayed for God to change our town, for people to come to find Him as Lord and Saviour, for churches to grow and lives to change. Let us indeed have an inner world to match when God answers our prayer so we are equipped from the inside to help foster the work of God in those we meet and the situations we face.

Jonathan Couper

Yorkshire Prayer Conference 2010

2010-02-04T14:00:00.000Z

YPC 2010

The Anointing

2010-01-29T15:11:00.000Z

Christ is a word which means Anointed. Jesus demonstrated this anointing as He taught, prophesied and healed people, raised others from the dead, fed thousands with just a few loaves and fish, changed water into wine and rebuked the wind and waves. This same anointing is available for all those who are in Christ ( after all we are Christians who have the opportunity to move in the presence of the anointing. The gospels and the book of Acts show us the results of bing in that anointing. The Holy Spirit is the source of this anointing made available to us through the death and resurrection of Jesus. The anointing blesses us, but this is not the primary focus. The anointing brings about God’s purpose in us and through us. We as creatures align to the Creator through the anointing. We also bear the family likeness as the anointing changes us from glory to glory. We are all in process and there is always more to discover, but over the next few network news, I hope to write section by section about the ingredients of this anointing. There will be 12 sections to this.

The first ingredient is Seeing. The anointing breaks through veil satan has placed over our minds (2 Cor 6); the veil of death which tries to keep us from seeing the light of the glory of God in the face of Jesus. Without the anointing we have no light and thus no sight. The anointing brings revelation to our hearts. Scripture becomes astoundingly clear and relevant. Life also looks different. We also find what we see has a relational dimension with God and when that happens it becomes precious to us. Jesus by contrast described those moving in scriptural truth without anointing as being blind guides who lead themselves and others into a ditch. Without God’s revelation, everything is supposition. Seeing is the first thing we need to move in. Jesus could only do what he saw the Father doing (john 5:19). We as Christians should expect to see what others cannot see, and this comes not from our rational intelligence but from our relationship with God in which the anointing flows to us and through us. In this context w2e will also see with words of knowledge, words of wisdom, prophecy as well as seeing some of the supernatural dimensions around us. In the fathers house we all have a room with a view .

Jonathan

Something to Think About

2010-01-28T14:55:00.005Z

The following was written by Ben Stein (pictured above) and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary.My confession: I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees, Christmas trees. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against. That's what they are, Christmas trees.

It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, 'Merry Christmas' to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu . If people want a creche, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few hundred yards away.

I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I have no idea where the concept came from, that America is an explicitly atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it being shoved down my throat. Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we should worship celebrities and we aren't allowed to worship God as we understand Him? I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too.

But there are a lot of us who are wondering where these celebrities came from and where the America we knew went to. In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a little different: This is not intended to be a joke; it's not funny, it's intended to get you thinking. Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her 'How could God let something like this happen?' (regarding Hurricane Katrina).. Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said, 'I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?' In light of recent events... Terrorists attack, school shootings, etc.

I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found a few years ago) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK. Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says thou shalt not kill; thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. And we said OK.Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave, because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr. Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said okay.Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves.Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with 'WE REAP WHAT WE SOW.' Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire, but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing.

Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace. Are you laughing yet? Funny how when you forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it.

Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than what God thinks of us. Pass it on if you think it has merit. If not, then just discard it... No one will know you did. But, if you discard this thought process, don't sit back and complain about what bad shape the world is in.

My Best Regards, Honestly and Respectfully, Ben Stein

Prayer and Presence Meeting Tuesday 2nd February at 7 pm

2010-01-28T14:03:00.002Z

Prayer and Presence Meeting Tuesday 2nd February at 7 pm in church
(and on 1st Tuesdays of month) (please note change of start time)

In this new season we believe that we are being called as a Church Network to upgrade our corporate prayer. We would encourage everyone to be involved in hearing from the Lord and moving in the revelation given to us.

Our monthly Prayer and Presence Meetings are an opportunity to get involved and to share with the rest of the church what is happening around you. The first meeting of 2010 is this Tuesday at 7pm.

This meeting will include prayers of thanksgiving for what the Lord is doing in and through the projects and ministries of the network.

Please make every effort to attend

On Behalf of
Jonathan Couper & June Lee

Coffee Mornings

2010-01-28T14:00:00.002Z

A series of Coffee Mornings are being organised by The Boys Brigade on Saturday mornings 10am to 2pm in the Forecourt at Christ Church….

13th February In Support of Boys’ Brigade

20th February In Support of Childrens’ Homes in Africa

27th February In support of Trish Wickes

EVERYONE WELCOME!

For further information please speak to Tony Found

The Tender Voice

2010-01-26T15:58:00.000Z

With your touch that is softer than velvet,
With your whisper that is quieter than snow,
You come, draw near and approach me,
Your love, You long that I know.

Refrain:
What then can I say to my Captain,
To the One who has captured me?
I long to express my deep feelings;
Your shelter is my liberty.

With your voice that is tender and soothing,
With your passion that sweeps over my soul,
You Lord, my God and my healer,
Your grace is making me whole.

Refrain:

With my praise I approach my Redeemer,
With my thanks I will now honour the Lord,
Salvation’s found in no other,
But Your Life, Your Death, Your Word!

Refrain:

© Neil Mackay Theta Publications April 2009/Jan 2010

Appeal from TRAX

2010-01-26T15:32:00.001Z

Appeal from TRAX For the next few weeks, in Trax, we are learning about the life of Paul and the growth of the early Church.On Sunday 14th February, before we leave, we shall be doing an activity in church involving the building of a Church. Please could all those who would like to be part of this bring, on that morning, a small passport size photo of themselves.If you forget, or do not have a photo, do not worry - there will be the opportunity, as you arrive, to draw a picture of yourself! many thanks!

Springboard 2010

2010-01-26T15:27:00.002Z

The curate writes…

2010-01-26T10:58:00.000Z

There are some things that Jesus seems to tackle over and over again. One of those things is forgiveness. I find myself doing the same thing!

Over and over while talking to folk I find that lack of forgiveness and growing bitterness is rife in many areas of life. The soaps reflect this too. Emmerdale, Corry, East Enders, even Star Trek (a sort of Eastenders in the sky) are all based around real relationships even though the contexts are different. And in those relationships there is often trauma caused by poor decisions, lifestyles and aspirations, whether rich or poor, employed or unemployed.

I think its fair to assume that if you work with others, stuff can go wrong in relationships. In fact, I’ve found that relationships can even be tested when nothing is done wrong – but through misunderstandings, stuff can still go pear shaped. And that’s being generous.

Low incomes, long hours, insufficient time, too much to do for those in work, too much time with nothing to do if out of work, emotional difficulties brought from home to work or vice versa, illness. All these things can generate stress and that impinges on relationships.

So Jesus speaks of forgiveness frequently and links it to blessing. It’s the way of grace. Here are a few examples.

That is why I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours. "Whenever you stand up to pray, forgive whatever you have against anyone, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins.
Mark 11:24-25

Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. "Stop judging, and you will never be judged. Stop condemning, and you will never be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A large quantity, pressed together, shaken down, and running over will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use, you will be measured."
Luke 6:36-38

The Lord is dying to bless. No, He’s already died, but you know what I mean. The Living God doesn’t teach us to forgive to make life hard – but to make it much better!

Typically, when I’m speaking to people who are going through appalling times involving others, they’ll say something along one of these lines:
“I now I should forgive, but it wouldn’t work” (in other words, I’m not going to risk it)
“You just don’t know how horrible they have been to me / us” (There are some things that cannot be forgiven)
And so they lock themselves into resentment or helplessness – basically agreeing with the devil rather than Our Lord Jesus.

Jesus is the one, while talking to people in occupied territory who said “Love your enemies”, “Do good to those who persecute you”. “If you love only those who love you what gain is that – even the pagans do that!”

This is the stunning simplicity of the gospel. Believe and trust, in God, in every circumstance. Don’t ‘compartmentalise’, keeping God stuff for church and homegroups in practice, but not actively in hard places.

Forgiving like Jesus does is counter cultural big time. Just do it. True, you need the power of God for this to be possible, for resentment and helplessness et al to be replace by the fruit of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Draw near to God and he will draw near to you. Eye of the storm and all that.
Dave

God Bless
Dave

Christ Church Pre-school and Noah’s Ark Nursery.

2010-01-22T14:07:00.002Z

As some of you may have seen in the Bridlington Free Press we had an Ofsted Inspection in December 2009.We are very please with the outcome as we were given “good” judgements on all 16 aspects of our childcare that were judged by the inspector. This included the standard of both care and education that the children receive with us.

All the staff deserve our congratulations for their achievement as the inspector evaluated each one at work in the setting as well as carefully looking at their paper work.

We are especially pleased because we achieved an “outstanding” judgement for the “effectiveness of our engagement with parents and carers”

There are 89 pupils on the register and 15 staff.

Margaret Walker
January 2010.

Pictures from Dan Clarke in South Africa

2010-01-21T15:05:00.001Z

Dan Clarke Dec and Jan Pics

Also visit www.ais-africa.co.za

Dan Clarke's Newsletter Dec & Jan

2010-01-21T14:56:00.000Z

Dec and Jan Newsletter Dan Clarke

TRISHA WICK'S NEWS FOR JANUARY 2010 FROM MARIDI IN SUDAN

2010-01-21T14:42:00.001Z

Greetings and a Happy New Year to you all.

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS
I was ill with malaria and cold over Christmas so my activities were limited. But New Year celebrations in church went ahead as planned although it was very hot. Being peace makers is our church theme for 2010.

GIFTS AND CARDS
Many thanks to all those of you who sent gifts and cards for Christmas. Much appreciated.

SECURITY
This is deteriorating as we approach elections in April. Maridi has remained calm so far. Bishop Justin will make the decision as to whether I stay in Sudan during the elections or leave for Uganda as many organizations are removing non Sudanese staff as unrest is expected. Bishop knows I wish to stay if possible. UN have evacuation plans if things get really bad - they will take all expats to their fortified team site near here and call in helicopters to take us out. Let's hope it is not necessary. The emergency bag is ready!

DAVID AND HEATHER SHARLAND
They are my CMS Colleagues who until recently live in Lui about 100 miles from Maridi. However they have now relocated to Arua in Uganda and will commute into Sudan occasionally, but are also building up work with Sudanese in Uganda.

IRISH VISITORS
A team from CMS Ireland are due to arrive in Maridi on January 19th for a week.

PUPPIES AND KITTENS
Six of the seven puppies go to new homes this week. The runt of the litter called Pixie will stay until she has grown a lot more - she is one third the size of the others. My cat Precious is due to give birth any time now. My other cat, Posho, who was sick is much improved. I have a sign over my chair which says 'My cat walks all over me and leaves paw prints on my heart'.

BORROWED MONEY
Pray for wisdom as I deal with four people who have borrowed money but are refusing to pay it back.

YOUTH DAY
January 1st is traditionally Youth Day and all collections from the services that day go to support the work of the youth. Wilson still needs to find more financial support for the work.

NEW CAR
Later this year I still hope to replace our Toyota Land Cruiser as long as security is OK and I can stay in Sudan. There is a British Company based in Gibraltar who can bring the car from Japan and deliver it to me here in Sudan.

CHAIMA COLLEGE
Bishop Justin is upgrading our Theological College and from this month courses are starting in English, Computer, and Accounting. Other courses will follow later.

WILSONS VISIT TO UK
I was hoping that my colleague Wilson could visit UK with me this year but God seems to be closing that door for the time being. The Visa Office in Uganda has closed and the one in Nairobi is moving to Addis Ababa in Ethiopia so it is almost impossible to apply for a visa, and in any case 90% of Sudanese are refused visas. Also with the present uncertain security situation Wilson needs to be with his family to do what he can to protect them.

HOME LEAVE
My next Home Leave is to be divided in two halves. Half this year and half next year. Therefore I expect to be in UK for three months this year from May, for MA study leave and also to visit some of my Link Churches.

MA STUDIES
November and December were so busy that I am now behind with my studies so I am keeping much of January and February free to catch up.

DISCIPLESHIP TRAINING BOOKS ON FOLLOWING JESUS
We have now started to write Book 3 - 'How can I live a life pleasing to God?' Book 4 will follow on 'Working for God'.

CMS FINANCIAL YEAR
This ends on January 31st and I am confident that God will provide all the money for my personal support. The target has been reached every year so far. Thank You.

PARTY POPPERS
We are not allowed to fire guns so when Wilson's family let off party poppers they sounded like gun fire. He escaped arrest.

All for now. Love to you all.
Trisha Wick

David & Chris Price January 2010 Newsletter

2010-01-21T14:39:00.000Z

Price January 2010 Number Two

Report on Christian Community Music Festival 2009

2010-01-21T14:24:00.001Z

After months of planning the Christian Community Music Festival came to fruition on the 18th November 2009. Over the 5-days 797 people took an active part in the festival. Over the 5-days 1,400 people attended the concerts some of which attended two, three and four concerts. Overall the festival touched the lives of 2,230 people and it is estimated double that number were made aware of the festival though our publicity.

Looking back over the festival we had, including the competitors for the East Coast Youth Competition 43 individual performers, 4 groups, 6 Senior Choirs, 6 Schools Choirs, one Steel Band, one Jazz Orchestra, two Wind Bands, one Brass Band, two Chamber Groups, the Festival Orchestra, the Riding Lights Theatre Company and the Bridlington Boys Brigade.

We were very grateful to the 50 patrons, the Bridlington and East Worlds Lions, The Friends of the East Riding Orchestra, Garry Carter Financial Planners and Lloyd Dowson who between them contributed who in total contributed £3,170.00 to the festival funds.

The Festival got underway in the 7th November when Sewerby Methodist Church hosted the heats for the East Coast Youth Musician Competition. 34 contests took part in this event, which lasted form 11:am to 5:00pm. The musical talent of these young people was of a high quality and 14 were chosen to take art in the final in the Spa Royal Hall on Saturday 21st November.

The 5-days of concerts had some great surprises. Individual performances, groups, choirs, wind bands, brass bands demonstrating the rich musical heritage within our local churches and community organisations. Thursday night demonstrated the wealth of talent we have at Christ Church. Some of our worship leaders and worship band members took on a different role as Men in Black, The Shamrock Irish Band and the Parker Band revealed a different side to their musical ability. The performance of York University Gospel Choir and the individual talent of the blind gospel singer Marilyn Baker enriched the Friday evening. Saturday evening saw the fulfilment of weeks of practice as the 70 members of the Churches Together choir led by Anthony Clark performed the Jimmy and Carol Owen musical “Come Together” with the Salvation Army band and Songsters from Castleford providing a fitting opening to the evening.

Sunday saw the climax of the festival with two memorable concerts. The afternoon performance by local schools treated the audience to a steel band, recorder band, schools choirs, drama group, string quartets and a jazz orchestra. Altogether some 250 young people participated in this event. A packed Bridlington Spa Theatre enjoyed the final concert of the festival. Performances by the Beverley Male Voice Choir, Longcroft Performing Arts College Gospel Choir, not forgetting the contribution by the Bridlington Methodist Singers, Ben Couper accompanied by Garth Blackburn performing a special piece written by Ben for the festival, Adam Walker and our own lads form the Boys Brigade. Truly a night to remember as audience joined the festival orchestra led by Jim Gillespie singing some of the great hymns of past and present.

Can we do it again in 2010? Together we can. Thank you Jonathan Couper and member of Christ Church for all your support.

Paul Lowe.

Scarborough Pregnancy Crisis Centre - January 2010 update

2010-01-21T14:19:00.002Z

Jonathan recently received this letter from...
Scarborough Pregnancy Crisis Centre - January 2010 update

We would like to thank all our supporters through the previous year. Indeed, many of you have been supporting us since we began 13 years ago, and you are all greatly appreciated. We continue to help an average of one person per week, and this year has again seen us support several clients in particularly difficult crisis situations, where our help has been significant in their lives. Also, this last year has seen a growing of the pregnancy Crisis work with clients outside of our office opening hours at St. Mary’s Parish House. Of course, we continue to be available to speak at any events, providing information and awareness of the services we provide. 2009 was a year with much encouragement
· We have forged a link with the local hospice bereavement support service and Beck House family support, in addition to the wide network links we have across the town.
· We have had a lot more contact from clients in Whitby, also network links there, Robin Hood’s Bay and in Bridlington.
· There are several more trained counsellors, giving us an even higher Churches Together profile, with volunteers from 8 different churches and 5 different denominations
· The fund raising bottles appeal in the spring was very successful, with support from lots of churches and individuals across town. We hope to repeat the bottle appeal this year with the launch on Mothering Sunday. Please let us know if your church or group wish to take part: Tel Scarborough 352100
· Individuals and groups have run fund raising coffee events for us through the last year, which is much appreciated.
· We have produced a new leaflet for distribution around surgeries, churches, network partners etc.

However, there has been sadness, with the news earlier in the year that the head of Careconfidential, Joanna Thompson, died after struggling with a sudden and aggressive tumour. We met Joanna many times, a truly inspirational woman, whose faith and vision saw her single Pregnancy Crisis Centre in Basingstoke become the network of nearly 200, of which we in Scarborough, thanks to your support, are one. The new director of Careconfidential is Dr. Phil Clarke, who has been actively involved with the establishment of the Pregnancy Crisis network from the beginning. More information about us, and the Careconfidential network, can be found on the website, http://www.careconfidential.com/

Thanks again for all your support, and bless you for all you do

Michelle (Centre Manager), Joe (Chairman) and the whole team

PS We are grateful to have Jenny Briggs as part of our team, and have received enormous help from Rosemary Gillespie as our supervisor over several years
Joe

The Sixty Minute Family

2010-01-21T13:42:00.003Z

Take an hour to explore family life

The Sixty Minute Family

Rob Parsons distils some of the key challenges of family life into an insight-packed one-hour read.

· To find your most effective parenting style
· To protect your marriage
· To make time for your family
· To create powerful family traditions
· To get your family through the tough times

£7.99 £1 off with this code: MG43

http://www.careforthefamily.org.uk/sixty-minute-family

Hosts Required for Open Doors

2010-01-14T14:50:00.000Z

Got an hour and a half to spare on late Tuesday Afternoons?

Open Doors are currently seeking to recruit additional volunteers specifically to act as Table Hosts during the meal section on Tuesdays afternoons 4.30pm to 6.00pm.

The purpose of the Table Host is to engage with those who attend and often live on their own and value just being able to talk to someone. Over a meal is a good opportunity for this to happen. If you feel that you are interested in carrying out this type of ministry, please speak to Tony Found to find out more.

You can also leave your details at Reception 01262 404100 and we will pass them on to Tony.

Passion Play 2010

2009-12-17T13:28:00.001Z

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.

Pre-School Christmas Artwork

2009-12-14T14:15:00.002Z

Pre School

New Website Launched by Archbishop of York

2009-12-14T13:27:00.001Z

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.

Rowes Christmas Newsletter

2009-12-01T15:34:00.000Z

Rowe Christmas Letter 2009 PDF

Bridlington Churches Together

2009-12-01T10:56:00.002Z

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

The Vicar writes...

2009-11-20T15:33:00.001Z

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.

When you retrace your life, what is important to you, and will that be as important on the day you die? As a young clergyman, I visited a lady who was dying of cancer. She had been an agnostic all her life, but something in her heart was still open to God. She herself had held bitterness against one of her relatives, and she of her own volition decided to write a letter putting the relationship right. when I visited her, she gave testimony of a deep sense of peace she had never known before and how she had since asked god into her life and she was recognising the difference in her inner being. At the last moment this lady had chosen what was important, and I know I will meet her in heaven one day.

Christmas is a great opportunity to pick up with God in our hearts again. It can also be a busy time and a shallow jolly time. We need to strive for the important that this Christmas does not pass us by without a blessing of eternal proportions.

Jonathan Couper

P.S Some advice for Christmas. Think about the Christmas story whilst you are preparing for Christmas. Plan space to read, rest or pray over the Christmas period.

P.P.S.For many Christmas is painful – because during this season many face past disappointments or current painful relationships, and food, gifts and other seasonal fare costs money as well. We need to consciously trust in the truth that God loves us, and commit the painful areas into God’s hand ( forgiving those who hurt us) and just being willing to do only what we know God says we should do. We stand against the guilt which says we ought to do this or that, and instead we are only going to do what we are guided to do. Choose to especially go to the Christmas services which will help you spiritually engage with God, and over the Christmas period enjoy what you can and put time limits on the difficult moments.

This year we have a special quiet reflective service at 7-8 pm on Christmas Eve. This is designed to provide quiet, spiritual space for those who desire it. This and the rest of the services at Christ Church are outlined below

Mon14th Dec 10.30am Pre-School Nativity
Sun 20th Dec 9.00am Christmas Service
Sun 20th Dec 11.00am Christmas Family Service with Communion
Sun 20th Dec 11.00am Play N Do Church
Sun 20th Dec 11.00am Youth Church
Sun 20th Dec 6.00pm Candle Lit Carol Service
Tue 22nd Dec 7.30pm Candle Lit Carol Service
Thu 24th Dec 3.15pm for 4pm Children’s Candle Lit Carol Service
Thu 24th Dec 7-8pm Quiet Reflective Service for Prayer
Thu 24th Dec 11.30pm Christmas Eve Midnight Communion
Fri 25th Dec 10.00am Christmas Day Service
Sun 27th Dec 9.00am Communion Service
Sun 27th Dec 11.00am No Family, Play N Do or Youth Services
Sun 27th Dec 6.00pm Normal Evening Service

All the Network Christmas services are listed near the top of this blog

The Vicar writes...

2009-11-20T14:34:00.003Z

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

Martongate Community Church

2009-11-19T14:40:00.000Z

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.

Equipped To Live

2009-11-19T12:44:00.000Z

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

Behold I Stand at The Door and Knock

2009-11-18T14:47:00.001Z

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

Praise God for Free Speech Victory

2009-11-17T14:48:00.002Z

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.

In a remarkable debate the House of Lords stood firm against the Government’s fourth attempt to impose its will upon them. Thanks to their steadfastness the vital democratic right to free speech was upheld, the police will have clarity about cases they do not need to investigate and ordinary, peaceful Christians and others who wish to be free to express orthodox Christian views on sexual ethics will not have their freedom so to do unreasonably interfered with.

A short time ago Secretary of State for Justice and Lord Chancellor Jack Straw MP, announced that the Commons will not attempt to send this particular question back to the Lords yet again under this Bill. On this basis it would seem that the immediate danger to our vital freedom has passed. However you can be assured that we will be vigilant and will let you know if another assault comes to light.

For now at least though we can thank God for this wonderful victory for Christian freedoms, free speech, democracy and common sense. Thank you all for your prayers on this vital issue. We believe they have availed much.

God bless you all, and thank you for your concern and your support

Andrea Minichiello Williams
Christian Concern for our Nation
http://www.ccfon.org
.

David & Chris Price November 2009 Newsletter

2009-11-17T14:33:00.002Z

Prices November 2009

Passion Play - Actors and Cast Members Still Needed

2009-11-17T13:54:00.003Z

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.

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

My Alpha Story

2009-11-16T15:36:00.002Z

"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

The Truth We Can Trust

2009-11-16T15:16:00.000Z

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’

Alpha Starting Again

2009-11-14T15:40:00.000Z

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

2009-11-13T21:22:00.002Z

The New Marrriage Course Launch

2009-11-13T12:57:00.004Z

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

Network Christmas Services

2009-11-13T09:25:00.001Z

Network Christmas Services

2009-11-12T15:51:00.000Z

Candle Lit Carol Services at Christ Church

2009-11-12T15:43:00.001Z

Candle Lit Services at Christ Church

ibethel tv

2009-11-12T15:37:00.001Z

Catch up with the latest teaching form Bethel Church by Clicking here

Christmas Message from the Archbishop of York

2009-11-12T12:58:00.003Z

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.

When we think of the Christmas story, we should not only reflect on the wonderful birth of the Saviour of the World, but also the other actors in the story:

the hospitality of the innkeeper who provided a place for Mary and Joseph, despite having no room to offer; the understanding of Joseph to devote himself to a fiancée carrying a Son of the Holy Spirit; the loyalty of Mary, a young virgin, to trust God and the plans he had for her and her family; the shepherds and magi who, despite very different backgrounds, each travelled to pay homage to the newborn King; and the Angels - God's messengers - who brought to the shepherds, the good news of great joy for all the people, and sang of God's Glory and peace on earth.

All these actors were brought together by God for a purpose, to be part of the birth of the Saviour of the World and the Prince of Peace. The start of a new historic chapter in God's World. Jesus' Coming, Dying and Rising is the proof of God's love. All springs from the love of God. He did not come to change God's attitude towards us. He came to show us what it is and always was. He came to reveal, unanswerably, that God is love.

Let us all take time to remember those in our community who may be feeling very lonely at this time. Whether it is those who have lost loved ones; or whose families have grown up and moved away; or those that are serving in the armed forces (or at home waiting for the safe return of their son, daughter or loved one); or those who find themselves homeless or in prison. We are called to show a generosity of spirit and commitment to everyone, regardless of their religion, colour, gender or ethnicity. For Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, God with us, was born to save us all, and is Lord of all.

I hope that you will have a peaceful and blessed Christmas and will find time to enjoy the company of those God has placed around you. May the Angels' song at the Birth of our Master and Saviour be your song and bring joy to you and your community. God is with us.

+ Sentamu Ebor

News In Brief

2009-11-12T10:02:00.004Z

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

The Curate writes…

2009-11-12T09:29:00.002Z

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.

In some ways, the Lord’s Prayer (The Lord’s Way of Life actually) is similar. Live the Jesus way and his kingdom comes. Like military combat practice, it needs to be really lived out and thought about over and over and over. Unlike drudgery, or rote learning though, living the Lord’s way is actually living life to the full.

The context of the Lord’s prayer is in the bigger picture of God who because of his love through and through, he has come to rescue us from destructiveness, to wash us clean, to restore us to relationship with him in his family. He is like the king in the parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18 v 23 onwards). When a servant came for forgiveness, the king forgave him a vast debt. So the servant was then able to live life generously and freely. But he didn’t – he didn’t freely forgive somebody who owed him what was by contrast a measly amount. So the king changed his mind.

The point of the parable is ‘don’t go there!’, ‘don’t live like that’. Don’t just think forgiveness is a nice concept – actually do it!

I think the phrases in the Lord’s prayer are meant to be understood in that kind of way. Because we have already experienced the grace of God, because we already know what its like, because we are in the family and call him Father, even more, Our Father – because of all that, we are actually free to forgive with the same generosity of Father God. The teaching of the scriptures is like that don’t you think?

It needs to be done with great care and attention and without waiting for others to make the first move. Love your enemies, do good to those that persecute you, says the Lord. Personally, I don’t think going to somebody and saying ‘I forgive you’ is the best way. It can so easily be misunderstood or dissolve into further argument. I reckon, actually being forgiving, living forgiving, wanting God’s best for them, doing good to them is the way. Or, if it is us that’s done some wrong (and we are aware of it) then go and ask forgiveness for what we’ve done without mention of anything they may have done.
(There is a place for prayerfully, restoratively correcting folk – but that is a different thing. That is found in Matthew 18 too, a church discipline kind of thing. But this letter is about relationships.)

If there is any difficulty in any of your relationships, be sure that you have God’s heart of forgiveness towards the other person and go and ask forgiveness precisely, carefully, in repentance for just what you have done wrong. Bitterness etc will be uprooted. There’ll be fresh water in the well, the living water will flow.

The Lord make His face to shine upon you and give you his peace.

God Bless.
Dave

Trisha Wick's CMS Link Letter

2009-11-12T09:22:00.001Z

Wick 36

New Wine Network: Pastoral Prayer Ministry Training Day at Pickering

2009-11-12T08:58:00.003Z

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

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

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

New Wine Network: A Day with Michelle Guiness Saturday Dec 5th

2009-11-12T08:49:00.003Z

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.

2009-11-09T11:40:00.001Z

2009-11-05T15:55:00.000Z

Boys' Brigade Visits Hull Museums

2009-11-05T13:08:00.000Z

Boys Brigade

2009-11-05T13:03:00.001Z

TRISHA WICK'S NEWS FOR NOVEMBER 2009

2009-11-05T08:45:00.001Z

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

David & Chris Price write...

2009-11-03T11:30:00.000Z

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.

Chritmas Ladies Meeting Place

2009-10-30T12:56:00.000Z

Christmas Meeting Place

The Vicar writes...

2009-10-26T09:41:00.003Z

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

2009-10-25T15:29:00.000Z

Christ Church Bridlington Network Christmas Services

2009-10-25T11:17:00.000Z

Christmas Service List

Bawtry Hall - Mike Gowen writes...

2009-10-25T10:08:00.000Z

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

Learning Department

2009-10-24T15:16:00.000+01:00

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.

East Coast Christian Community Music Festival

2009-10-24T10:12:00.000+01:00

East Coast Christian Music Festival

Evaluation of Church Fabric 2008/2009

2009-10-22T15:19:00.000+01:00

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 Curate writes…

2009-10-22T11:28:00.001+01:00

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

2009-10-22T11:01:00.001+01:00

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

Passion Play - Actors and Cast Members Needed

2009-10-20T13:23:00.002+01:00

Actors and Cast Members Needed