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
Tuesday, 23 March 2010
The Curate writes…
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Martongate Community Church
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 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
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
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
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!
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!
Friday, 12 March 2010
Thursday, 11 March 2010
October Conference at Bridlington Spa
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
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
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
Destiny Africa Choir
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
Monday, 8 March 2010
February News from Dan Clarke
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
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
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)]
Friday, 5 March 2010
The Vicar writes...
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!!
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!!
Thursday, 4 March 2010
The Anointing
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
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
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
Monday, 1 March 2010
Wilberforce Academy for students and young professionals
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
http://www.ccfon.org/docs/Wilberforce_Academy_Flyer.pdf
Womens World Day of Prayer
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
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
Sunday, 28 February 2010
Bethel Morning Worship : Feb 28 '10 with Kathyrn Scott
Kathryn Scott from Causeway Coast Vineyard, Coleraine recording her new album live at Bethel Church, Redding today
Friday, 26 February 2010
Thursday, 25 February 2010
Str Andrew's Ulrome
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
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?
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
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
Tuesday, 23 February 2010
Mens' Breakfast
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
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.
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…
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.
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.
Monday, 22 February 2010
News in Brief
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
(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
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
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
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
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
Look out for Dan Clarke in the Visa South Africa World Cup Advert near the end!
Friday, 5 February 2010
The Vicar writes...
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
(c) obsessive patterns of behaviour ( which are a way of trying to cope with anxiety within)
(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
Thursday, 4 February 2010
Friday, 29 January 2010
The Anointing
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
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
Thursday, 28 January 2010
Something to Think About
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
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
(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
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
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
Tuesday, 26 January 2010
The Tender Voice
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
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
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
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.
The curate writes…
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
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
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