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Ashbourne Methodist Circuit Magazine
June 2004
From the Manse
Dear friends,
June in Derbyshire is the Well Dressing season. Thousands of people have already
visited Tissington. Thousands more will visit the different villages as they
celebrate this long held tradition. Well Dressing is a very public way of
giving thanks to God for his gift of water, the source of life.
How beautiful the wells are. Long hours of labour have gone in to the design
and preparation of the pictures, with such beautiful and stunning results.
May all who gaze on them be lifted up to God in thanksgiving.
In the Bible wells feature prominently. Jesus met the Samaritan woman by Jacob's
well. A well dug 1,600 years earlier by their ancestor Jacob and still providing
its life giving water.
Water is essential for life. When weather patterns change and the once reliable
rains cease to come, then drought follows. Sometimes this is with disastrous
consequences as we have seen so often over the past three decades in Africa
and India.
As the world's population increases, in some places the pressure on water
supplies becomes acute. This problem ranges from thirsty California to the
deserts encroaching on Beijing.
When I was in Africa, the development projects which most impressed me were
those by Water Aid, bringing clean water to the smallest villages. They would
come in and identify a local water source, sometimes by digging a well, sometimes
by bringing a pipe from a spring on a tree covered hillside. Once the water
supply was there the health of the village dramatically improved. Fewer babies
would die of diarrhoea. Fewer trips to the hospital were needed sapping their
limited funds. With improved health the productivity of the village increased.
All this coming through clean water, the source of life.
How it makes me angry when I see this precious gift of God abused, for example,
when the IMF tries to get impoverished countries to bring in the privatisation
of water supply. At a stroke this puts clean water out of reach of the poorest
families. How it makes me angry when I see the towns that surround Jacob's
well in Samaria going short of water, while the new Israeli settlements have
large houses with swimming pools filled with water. Water is not a tool to
be used for political games. It is God's precious gift of life for everyone.
Jesus used water to illustrate his precious gift to us. "Ask of me and
I will give you living water. Whoever drinks of this water will never thirst
again. Indeed the water I give will become in you a spring welling up to eternal
life." (John 4v14). The gift Jesus gives us is the Holy Spirit. It acts
like a fountain of water overflowing in our lives, giving life to all around.
The Bible ends with a picture of the church as the new Jerusalem. From it
flows a river, the water of life. By the banks of the river grow trees. They
are always producing fruit, and their leaves bring healing. (Revelation 22v2).
As we gaze on the wells dressed this June. Give thanks to God for his precious
gift of water, and ask him to renew in us his Holy Spirit that we may be fountains
bringing life to others.
God Bless,
Chris
NCH - Auction of Promises
Many, many thanks to all who supported the Auction in April. What an outstanding
result! The total of £2,745 far exceeded our hopes and expectations.
There is a possibility of another £50 still to come! The evening itself
was great fun, and the 70 or so people present seem to have thoroughly enjoyed
it. The Auctioneer, Mr John Taylor, had the right balance of humour and professional
skill. Indeed, we suspect it was due to his personality that the amount raised
was so high. He was very persuasive! It was fun, too, to watch Patrick McLoughlin
auction his own promise of a visit to the Palace of Westminster, which sold
for £130. Although some items sold for perhaps more than their true
market value there were in fact very many real bargains, and people went away
happy. Our NCH area rep, Marie Mathieson, tells us that this is by far the
biggest fund-raiser for an NCH Support Group in her area so far this year,
so thank you again if you offered lots for sale, bought/sold catalogues, purchased
items, helped with the catering, or made separate donations. You all helped
us towards a very successful event.
Ashbourne NCH support Group
This month's cover design is "Springtime" by Chris Morris
Ashbourne Tuesday Night Youth Club
We are in need of help as from September 2004. The Youth Club is for people
aged 7 to 14 and they meet on Tuesday Evening in Waterside between 7 &
8.30pm. It is a fun night and rewarding. There is no age barrier to being
a helper. The current average age of our limited number of helpers is 50 plus.
Of the 4 helpers (including Roger Mallard), 2 do not attend our Church and
2 of them live outside Ashbourne. If you are willing to help or would like
to know more or perhaps come along and see what happens, contact me.
Roger Mallard
Chernobyl Children Lifeline
We have recently returned from, what now seems to be becoming, out annual
visit to Belarus. The people in the villages were busy planting potatoes etc.,
it is a very short season, so everything has to be done as soon as possible.
There have been one or two changes since our last visit…
The laundry in Lapichi was opened by the Ambassador and local Mayor. It has
taken nearly four years to do, but now looks beautiful, although the electricity
has still to be connected.
In Ossipovici, where most of the Chernobyl Children come to Ashbourne from,
the swimming pool has been opened this January. This means that the children
can learn to swim without having to go in the polluted rivers. Max and Dime
took great pride in showing us round. They are the first two boys we had to
stay, and hold a special place in our hearts. We were able to see most of
the children we have had to stay and thankfully most of them appear to be
reasonably well and working hard at school.
This year's children arrive on 30th May and we are having two girls, as one
boy's little sister had the chance to come and, as we have met her and the
family three times, her Mum was pleased to know who she would be staying with.
Her name in Annestesie and we are looking forward very much to having her
and her friend staying with us and sharing a busy month.
If anyone would like to know more about Chernobyl Children Lifeline, you can
contact us or Caroline Cooper or Paul Rimmer.
Linda Lowe
Ashbourne Annual Church Meeting
The Annual Church Meeting was held on 26th April and included reports from
groups in the church. Also included was feedback from Stuart Green on his
research. A summary of the meeting will be in next month's Ashbourne Church
magazine, but in the meantime a copy of the minutes and the research report
will be available in the Ashbourne Church office (the room off the vestibule
with the photocopier in). If you would like to read them, please make sure
you return them!
Carole Thorpe
Notes from Kniveton
We are looking forward to a return visit of Bishop Philip, his wife and colleagues
to the village on 27th May. They will be welcomed at a service in the Church
at 10am, followed by a visit to an organic farm, a tour of Lester and Linda
Lowe's business and a picnic in their garden. We then have a short service
in the Chapel, to be followed by a visit to a dairy farm, a walk over Atlow
Winn to Atlow Village Hall and a 'get together' and buffet meal. Thank you
to Jane Methuen who has worked so hard to put the arrangements in place.
The well-dressing arrangements are in hand, with the Well Dressing service
starting at the South Door of St Michael's Church at 10am on 20th June and
progressing round the village, finishing at the Chapel for a united service
at 11am.
Preachers and visitors to the Chapel usually visit Mrs Raynsworth. Phyllis
would like to take this opportunity to send her greetings to all her visitors.
At the moment she is struggling a little and would be grateful if we are able
to remember her in our prayers.
Also, a note of appreciation to each of our organists who give to us their
time and talents to enrich our fellowship and worship.
Sister Merle
Mooiplaas Update
As we're sure you know, Ashbourne Youth Fellowship has been supporting a project
in Mooiplaas (near East London) South Africa, which aims to encourage sustainable
rural development. www.mooiplaas.org
We have been praying for the project and in July Teresa Hall and Danny Ffoulkes
will visit on a serv-fari after their exams in the summer. In addition, we
have been fundraising to help the project financially.
We are pleased to report that an initial donation of £1,000 has been
sent to Mooiplaas. This included a contribution of £500 which the church
had promised and £500 from the Youth Fellowship fundraising efforts.
A further donation will be sent in late July, timed to coincide with Teresa
and Danny's visit.
We have had a note back from Rev Welile Sigabi thanking the church very much
for the donation and giving an indication of the things that it is planned
to use it for.
Top priority is repairing the 300metre dirt track from the main road, to enable
normal cars to get to the training centre and accommodation. Those of us who
visited Mooiplaas in February are very pleased that this work will be done!
Secondly, the money will fund repairs to the roofs of the rondavels and some
redecoration. If sufficient funds remain (money goes a long way in Mooiplaas!)
they intend to carry out some upkeep work on the training centre office.
Many thanks to you all, and please support our quiz night in early-July.
Ashbourne Youth Fellowship
Ashbourne Youth Fellowship Prayer Evening
Youth Fellowship have recently been exploring prayer from a variety of different
angles, including Bible study and discussions about prayer. We had identified
some different styles of prayer, and different ways of focussing prayers,
and wanted to experiment with some of these. We were able to try some of them
during the course of normal meetings, but we also decided to run a Prayer
Evening. We opened up the evening to members of the church and were pleased
that several were able to join us.
We began the evening with a prayer with spoken responses and visual stimulus
in a group, and then were able to wander around the Church exploring various
styles of prayer. These included symbolic prayers for our own needs, meditations
on the words of the Lord's Prayer, reflections on a passage from scripture,
prayers for the world church, prayers for members of our community symbolised
by floating bubbles and prayers of renewal and rededication using water as
a symbol of baptism and cleansing. We finished with a time of 'free' prayer
in a group and then sharing the Peace.
Feedback was good (as you can see below) and we feel that it is something
we would like to do again in the future.
"Although very sceptical beforehand as to whether and how the event would
work, I was very pleasantly surprised. The calm with which the whole church
was filled was a perfect environment in which to think and pray and, although
I find it difficult to explain exactly how I felt about it, I did find it
a very positive experience."
Lorna Bale
"Prayer is…the soul's sincere desire, uttered or unexpressed."
Emptying oneself of everything but the presence of God.
"Prayer is…the burden of a sigh, the falling of a tear."
Like bubbles floating in the air.
"Prayer is…the simplest form of speech."
Perhaps summed up in a written word or two - 'love', 'understanding'.
"Prayer is…the contrite sinner's voice, returning from his ways."
Washing away guilt and sin and being thoroughly cleansed and renewed.
"O thou by whom we come to God
The Life, the Truth, the Way.
The path of prayer Thyself hast trod:
Lord, teach us how to pray."
"All week [after the prayer evening] the words of this hymn have 'haunted
me'
and I have therefore used it as a guide to my thoughts. (With apologies
to James Montgomery, 1771-1854)"
Gwenda Alcock
"My general impression was positive; the individual prayer themes were
imaginative and helpful and the numbers of people were not so great as
to spoil thought and prayer."
Stuart Mustow
Women's Network
WILL YOU COME AND FOLLOW ME?
How about a day at The Hayes Conference Centre, Swanwick on Saturday 12th
June. This connexional event is from the 11th-13th June, but it is possible
to go for the day and some of us are hoping to go on Saturday 12th June. The
cost is £30, which includes meals. We shall get two of the three sessions
being led by Mrs Ann Donaldson, as well as workshops and small-group discussions.
If you would like to go, please see Alma by 2nd June.
STRAWBERRY TEAS AND BARBECUE
Barbara Brown, our District President, invites you to this event to be held
at her home, 123 Grange Road Newark, on Saturday 12th June. Strawberry teas
are from 2-4pm and the barbecue (with live music) from 7-9pm. It is in aid
of her Appeal for the Methodist Home at Ripley. All welcome!
DISTRICT DAY
This will be held at Ashbourne Road Methodist Church, Derby (the 107 bus passes
the door!) on Wednesday 16th June. The speaker is Mrs Rosemary Wells who is
the British Unit President of the World Federation of Methodist and Uniting
Church Women. She is hoping to have workshops during the day - cards for beginners/cards
for the more experienced/ slides of Rehe/words/singing/bibliodrama/banner-making.
District Days commence with registration (£1) and coffee from 10am.
Meeting at 10.30am, lunch at 12.30pm (packed lunch required, drinks available),
service at 2pm and close at around 3.30-3.45pm. This programme may vary! However,
I'm sure it will be a very good day - why not come along?
GARDEN PARTY
District Network is holding a Garden Party at Mapleleaf House, Ripley, from
2-4pm on Saturday 3rd July. There will be various stalls and live entertainment
throughout the afternoon. All proceeds for the District President's Appeal
for Mapleleaf House. Please come along!
AGM
Please reserve the date of Monday 19th July! The business will be followed
by a supper and an illustrated talk by Sandra Lewer on her pilgrimage to Iona.
For further information about all these events please contact me!
Alma Swan
News from Tissington
The organ in the chapel has been unpredictable for a long time and so we are
very grateful to Mr & Mrs Peter Hurst of Belper for the gift of a new
organ. We are also grateful to Des Humphries and Malcolm Kirkham, two of our
regular worshippers, who collected and installed it for us.
Sandra Alcock
News from Kirk Ireton
Inevitably, there are going to be changes in the life of a village - it is
happening all the time with some families coming and going before we really
know them. However, in this case it is quite different. Rev Canon John Cooper
and his wife Gill will, alas, be leaving in the not-too-distant future. Their
input into the spiritual and social harmony of our life together cannot, I
believe, be measured but it has proceeded quietly and unassumingly over the
years to everyone's benefit and happiness. In new pastures may they flourish
in peace and joy, continuing that ministry of insight and care which is so
much the hallmark of their lives.
And now for Wakes Week. The service which heralds the Wakes Week is a united
service at the Church on Trinity Sunday, led by a procession and band. Almost
everyone takes some part in the decorating of the village and the events which
are part of the week.
During the past week, a member of an old Kirk Ireton family has died. Mr Alf
Smith was married to Eunice, and we remember her and their family and Alf's
brothers, Bill (and Margaret, his wife) and Stan, at this time of sadness
for them.
Sister Merle
An Ethiopian Journey
DEPARTING FROM HURTSWOOD, SANDYBROOK, ON TUESDAY 22ND JUNE AT 7 PM
At the NCH Auction of Promises in April Rev Chris Eddy offered for sale a
special slide show - "An Ethiopian Journey", which was purchased
by us with the idea of using it for a special extra fund-raising and social
event. Join us this month as we offer this tour. Billed as "Travel on
the hairpin bends of Ethiopia's mountain roads: see the source of the Blue
Nile: enter the Queen of Sheba's boudoir: discover the Ark of the Covenant",
it promises to be an unusual and interesting evening. Tickets cost £5
each and are available from John and Elizabeth Hurfurt, Marianne and Eric
Matthews, or Betty and Michael Hadley. Proceeds are in aid of Operation Christmas
Child. The date is Tuesday 22nd June, and we will "depart" from
HURTSWOOD, at 7 pm, beginning with a light buffet supper to sustain us on
our way, with the tour itself starting at 8pm, returning before bed-time.
No passports or luggage needed. Bon Voyage!!
Betty Hadley
Notes from the last Circuit Meeting
Perhaps those of you who are not members of the Circuit Meeting wonder sometimes
what we talk about, so we have decided that in future we would keep you informed
of Circuit Meeting news by means of the Magazine.
Ashbourne on March 25th was the venue for our last Meeting and there was a
good attendance from members. Chris led our opening devotions and we proceeded
to say a big thank you to Ann who will be retiring from Office on August 31st
after 6 devoted years as Circuit Steward. We would wish to continue with 3
Circuit Stewards and an appeal was made for everyone to prayerfully consider
if they are being called to this office. Chris will be pleased to hear from
you. The meeting was reminded that Eric retires from office on August 31st
2005.
There were a number of financial matters to deal with, the most important
being the fixing of Assessments for the year commencing September 1st 2005.
An attempt has been made to calculate these in a more equitable manner and
the recommendations were accepted unanimously.
Reports were received from all the different sections of our Circuit work
and we thank God for all that is done in the Circuit. The following highlights
will be of interest to you.
LOCAL PREACHERS - Geoff Thompson has been on full plan for 50 years and this
will be recognised at morning worship at Ashbourne on June 20th. We hope that
all Circuit Chapels will be represented at the service to say thank you to
Geoff for his continuing service in bringing the word of God to us.
PROPERTY - We received Hedley's first report as Property Secretary and it
was good to note his comment that 'our chapels are cared for by devoted Christian
people'. Brailsford, Kniveton and Tissington are due to have their quinquennial
inspections in the year.
CIRCUIT SERVICES - In her report Ann reminded us that these are not a means
of filling the plan but provide a valued way of getting together and being
a help to those small congregations who may be feeling isolated. 'They provide
a means of Grace, an uplift of praise and a real inspiration'. Please keep
your eye on the plan and support our Circuit services whenever you can.
YOUTH AND COMMUNITY WORKER - We expressed our gratitude to Roger for his report
on all his many ongoing activities many of which were of an ecumenical nature.
Chris commented that Roger's work in the villages was very much appreciated
by the local Churches.
ECUMENICAL RELATIONS - Chris reported on discussions with Rev. Christopher
Harrison (Rural Dean) on this matter and the possibility of a closer working
together of our Circuit with the Ashbourne Deanery following the publication
of a report on Renewing Ministry by the Derby Diocese. He also advised that
he had attended the local URC Synod following the arrangements offered on
the coming into being of the West Derbyshire United Reform Church at Wirksworth.
We appointed our Circuit officers for the year commencing 1st September 2005
and arranged our next meeting for Monday 27th September which will be held
at Brailsford.
It was a busy evening, but one of rich fellowship which came to an end with
much appreciated refreshments!
Your local representatives should have a full copy of the minutes and reports
if you would like to see them.
Ann, Elizabeth and Eric.
Church and Society (Social Responsibility)
Gambling
There is a draft Gambling Bill published by the government with a view to
update the legislation that has not be touched for 40 years. Part of this
bill, if it became law, would see the reclassification of slot machines making
it easier for children to use them. There are also rules to make it easier
to enter and use Casinos. At the end of the day, it is not good news and the
fact that children will be able to gamble albeit for small amounts on slot
machines that are very addictive defies belief. There is a short briefing
paper at the rear of the church if you wish to find out more and perhaps make
a difference.
Roger Mallard.
Vote No To Racism
We have local and European Elections soon. Through a quirk of proportional
representation, it is possible to have as little as 8% of the vote and yet
gain a seat. This is why the BNP are fielding many candidates. It does appear
that the BNP clothe their racist policies in a disguise of 'family values'
and feed off the fear of ordinary people. There is an article on the notice
board at the rear of the Church enlarging on this matter. However, you do
need to vote and avoid racist parties.
Roger Mallard.
Appeal for Tools
The Diocese of Derby through the Sustainable Development Working Group is
appealing for tools. Craft and carpentry tools, plumbing, metalworking and
blacksmiths tools are required, shoemaking kits and manual sewing machines
are all required.
Our local collection point is Lester Lowe Ltd, Breck Farm, Kniveton. Times:
7.30am - 5.30 pm Mon- Fri and 8am - 4pm on Saturday.
More information is on the poster at the rear of the Church
Roger Mallard.
Refugees and Asylum Seekers
This is quite an emotive subject with many views held and many misconceptions.
With this Church Magazine is a little quiz for you to do. The answers are
at the bottom of the quiz page so don't cheat.
Roger Mallard.
A quiz…
1. A refugee, in law, is a person who has a "well-founded fear of being
persecuted." There are several possible reasons for being given refugee
status (and therefore the right to stay in Britain). Which of the following
reasons for persecution would result in refugee status being awarded?
a) race b) religion c) nationality d) language
e) particular social group f) age g) political opinions
2. The correct definition of an "asylum seeker" is:
a) a person who has asked for asylum ( the right to stay here in safety) and
is still waiting for a decision
b) a person who has entered this country illegally
3. Roughly how many asylum seekers came to the UK in 2002? For information,
the UK population is just over 59,000,000.
a) 11,000 (i.e. 0.018% of UK population)
b) 110,000 (i.e. 0.18% of UK population)
c) 1,100,000 (i.e. 1.8% of UK population)
d) 11,000,000 (i.e. 18% of UK population)
4. Which of the following EU countries had more asylum seekers arrive in
2002 as a proportion of their population than the UK?
a) Ireland b) Austria c) Italy d) Norway e) Sweden
5. From which country did most refugees come into the UK in (i) 2003 and
(ii) so far this year?
a) Congo b) Afghanistan c) Somalia d) Zimbabwe e) China f) Iraq
6. How much money does someone seeking asylum in the UK get from NASS? Is
it equivalent to:
a) Full income support + 20% b) Full income support with extra grants
c) Full income support d) 70% of Full income support e) Nothing
7. While an asylum seeker is awaiting a decision, they are found somewhere
to live by the Home Office. If they are given refugee status, they have to
move out - what can they keep?
a) Furniture b) Fridge c) Curtains d) Cooker e) None of these f) All of these
Answers: 1)a,b,c,e,g 2)a 3)b 4) a [0.31%], b [0.46%], d [0.39%], e [0.37%]
5i)f 5ii)c 6)c 7)e
Youth & Community Work
In July we (Methodist Church, St. Oswald's, Elim and Scripture Union) are
going into Parkside Junior School to take an assembly and lead morning lessons
for year 6 in connection with their move into year 7 at QEGS. Moving school
is very often a traumatic experience and we hope through our visit we will
be able to offer practical help to those year 6 pupils. We will also present
a funky book written by Scripture Union to each year 6 pupil that is packed
with tips and advice on how to survive the new school experience.
Children Don't Bite Seminar
This seminar will be held at Hurtswood, Sandybrook, Ashbourne on Saturday
June 19th from 10am until 4pm. Childcare is provided for the day. Come along
for the whole day, morning or afternoon. The morning session will look at
Child Protection issues and is a chance to update your knowledge in this area
and in the afternoon we plan to look at working with children and young people,
offering practical advice and tips to get the best out of what you do. There
will also be opportunities throughout the day to ask all those burning questions
and allay your fears as to whether you are doing something right. Several
people from around the district who have experience in working with children
and young people including Judith Wood, the District Training and development
Officer will lead the course.
If you work with children or young people, if you are thinking of working
with children and young people and want to know what it involves or if the
Chapels want to know more about children's and young peoples work, then it's
for you. This course has been specifically written for this circuit and it
is a privilege to be able to have it here in Ashbourne. The course is free
(although donations are welcome to defray our costs). Coffee and Tea and other
drinks will be served all day, just bring your lunch. To help with the organisation
and ensuring we have enough handouts, please register your intention of coming
with Roger Mallard.
Roger Mallard.
Future activities
It is still hoped that in September (subject to Church Council approval) we
will be able to start some new youth work on a Friday night for school year
8 and above ages. Some people have indicated a willingness to be involved
and I am trying to gauge the level of support available for this from those
18 plus. If you may be willing to help please let Roger Mallard know.
There is a possibility that an after school club may be started on a Wednesday
in one of the villages for approximately 1 hour from 3.30pm for primary and
junior school age. If you might be willing to help would you let Roger Mallard
know. (Transport can be provided on a Wednesday). Expressing an interest is
not committing you.
Roger Mallard.
Beyond These Four Walls
On Saturday 17th July, Ashbourne Methodist play host to the District for a
major event called Beyond These Four Walls. It will run from 10am to 4pm.
There will be many people involved in leading the day from the District and
from Anglican friends too. We will also have Rev Peter Hancock who is the
executive of RUN (Reaching the Unchurched Network), Andy Crofts who is the
Future Church Enabler in the York and Hull District, Rev Ashley Cooper who
is the Connexional coordinator for the Mission and Evangelism Enablers and
the Rev Peter Hancock who was the minister for The Bridge in Hinckley, a church
plant in a local school. He will talk about the vision and how it was implemented.
It's an exciting day so put it in your diary now.
It has been suggested at district level that a donation of £5.00 is
made to help cover the costs of the event. Don't let this put you off. Please
let Roger Mallard or Chris Eddy know if you plan to attend.
Milldale
A special service will be held at Milldale chapel on 16th June at 7pm. This
is the first of three to be held over the summer months. These services are
always uplifting and the peaceful surroundings of Milldale allow for real
reflection.
Cliff Lewer
Outreach in Ashbourne
There are ways in which we reach other people - for example - through our
work in Cornerstone, through the Youth Club, through Alpha. At the Annual
Church Meeting other ideas about how we might communicate with the local community
were put forward - for example - by a stall on the market place. This is only
one of several ideas. If we are to use the suggestions and put them into practice
we need to co-ordinate the work. We should like to establish an outreach group
to do this.
The outreach group would -
1. Review what is already being done and identify who is involved.
2. Collect the new ideas and decide which are feasible.
3. Recommend to Church Council the order of priority of our outreach work,
including a consideration of what is already being done.
4. Once the priorities have been decided by Church Council, identify who should
be approached to carry out the work.
5. Monitor the progress of the work.
The group would be an on-going one, always ready to receive new ideas, evaluate
them and make recommendations to Church Council. If you are interested in
joining this group, please speak to Chris Eddy or Elizabeth Hurfurt.
The Stewards
MISSION MATTERS
You asked for my hands
That you might use them for your purpose.
I gave them for a moment then withdrew them
For the work was hard.
You asked for my mouth
To speak out against injustice.
I gave you a whisper that I might not be accused.
You asked for my eyes
To see the pain of poverty.
I closed them for I did not want to see.
You asked for my life
That you might work through me.
I gave a small part that I might not get too involved.
Lord, forgive my calculated efforts to serve you
Only when it is convenient for me to do so,
Only in the places where it is safe to do so,
And only with those who make it easy to do so.
Father forgive me,
Renew me,
Send me out
As a usable instrument
That I might take seriously
The meaning of your cross.
Streams of Living Water
12th -13th June. "Encountering God through the work of the Holy Spirit",
an event for young and old alike. Guest speakers - Geoff Pickup, Pastor at
New Life Church. John White, Vicar of St. Alkmunds, Derby. Programme for young
people includes crèche, 5-11's and youth programme. Teaching, worship,
activities/guided walk, seminars - e.g. Healing, prayer, hearing God's call,
Calling, character and confidence, How to share your faith with your family
without boring them, Releasing the church for mission. Cost for Saturday £4.00
adults, £2.00 children. Family booking £10.00. No charge for Sunday.
Venue - Jacksdale, 14 miles north of Nottingham city centre. Further info.
and to book contact Russell Eaton.
Surfing South Pacific
Thank you to all those who participated in this JMA event and thanks to those
who helped and supported it. We enjoyed a quiz, colouring, story, cocktail
making, story, prayer, lunch and poems all with a South Pacific theme. There
were games too and we learnt a lot about Tonga from our special visitor.
Ruth Mallard
Ashbourne Family News
We send our congratulations to Harry & Lyn on their Ruby wedding anniversary
on 20th June.
We have received the following message from Cathy Stubbs
'On behalf of Keith and myself, may I thank everyone for all the cards, prayers,
flowers, phone calls and visits which we have received since my illness was
diagnosed. The support and care shown by members of the church has been very
important and it has given me, in the midst of a difficult time, an unexpected
opportunity to get to know people better, for which I am thankful.
Mrs Hilda Scriven, who has been a member of our congregation at Ashbourne
for many years, sadly passed away earlier this week. We give thanks for her
life and the work she carried out in God's name.
Sydney Carter 1915 - 2004
Probably best known for the song 'Lord of the Dance', Sydney Carter died in
March at the age of 88. He was poet, songwriter and folk musician, a holy
sceptic who touched the hearts of children in particular through his religious
songs.
He came from a family of modest means, read history at Oxford and then taught
at a co-educational boarding school, where he turned out to be a born teacher.
A strong pacifist, he joined the Friends' Ambulance Unit during World War
Two and ended up in Greece, where he met Donald Swann (of Flanders and Swann
fame) in the same unit.
After the war, folk music, both sacred and secular dominated his life; he
played a leading role in the folk revival of the 1960s and 70s, when he wrote
most of his songs which both pleased and, sometimes, shocked. He wrote revue
songs for Donald Swann and others (including 'My last cigarette' for Sheila
Hancock). In 1960 he wrote a controversial song about Good Friday morning,
which posed the deepest questions about faith as to whether God is in Auschwitz
(or the Twin Towers, to bring it up to date), which was broadcast with some
courage by the BBC.
He wrote books as well as songs and satirised every form of self-righteous
faith in his writings. "Bibles, legends, history are signposts: they
are pointing to the future, not the past. Do not embrace the past or it will
turn into an idol." He remained for long outside the theological establishment,
which did not unduly bother him, yet his most well-known religious songs,
which in their mystical simplicity caused raised eyebrows in churches initially,
are now established favourites.
A survey in 1996 of the songs most sung in school assemblies put 'One more
step' in first place, 'Lord of the Dance' in fifth place and 'When I needed
a neighbour' in sixth, all by Sydney Carter. Talking about 'Lord of the Dance',
he said "I see Christ as the incarnation of the piper who is calling
the dances that shape the pattern which is at the heart of out reality. By
Christ I mean not only Jesus; in other times and places, other planets, there
may be other Lords of the Dance. But Jesus is the one I know of first and
best. I sing of the dancing pattern in the life and words of Jesus."
He knew and admired the Shakers, for whom dancing was a spiritual activity.
"Their hymns were odd, but sometimes of great beauty: from one of these
I adapted this melody….I wanted to salute the Shakers. Sometimes for
a change I sing the whole song in the present tense…It's worth a try."
He had a deep faith, but always said that his songs were born of his knowledge
that he was always on the edge of doubting.
So what do you believe in?
Nothing fixed or final,
all the while I travel a miracle. I doubt
and yet
I walk upon the water.
(From his poem 'Interview')
Pat Fielding
Prayers
We continue to ask for you to especially remember the following
things in your prayers this month:
30th May The fellowship of the Ashbourne Circuit
31st May The children of Chernobyl recently arrived in Ashbourne
1st June The women's Fellowship Group at Ashbourne
2nd June The Young people of our Churches revising for exams
3rd June Outreach work in the Ashbourne circuit
4th June Those who are unwell at the moment
5th June Our fellow Christians of all denominations in the area
6th June Local Preachers of the circuit
7th June The work of the Ashbourne Fair Trade Town Group
8th June That helpers may be found for the Ashbourne Youth Club
9th June Those who maintain our Church properties with such dedication
10th June The outreach of Cornerstone
11th June Those who provide music for services
12th June Those preparing for Brailsford Alive@9
13th June Hulland Chapel as they celebrate their Anniversary
14th June Pastoral visitors throughout the circuit
15th June That more helpers may be found for Ashbourne Explorers
16th June The witness of Milldale Chapel
17th June Those who serve the church and circuit
18th June The work of Methodist Homes
19th June Those who work with young people in the church
20th June The open-air service at Brailsford
21st June Those visiting the well dressing at Kniveton
22nd June The work of NCH
23rd June The organisers of the The Methodist Conference at Loughbourogh
24th June Visitors to the area
25th June Those speaking at The Methodist Conference at Loughbourogh
26th June Visitors to Cornerstone Coffee Shop
Spring Synod
On Saturday 24th April, the Spring Synod was held at Dayncourt School, Radcliffe
on Trent. Along with Rev Chris Eddy, the Ashbourne Circuit was represented
by Cliff and Sandra Lewer, Jacinth Land, Eric Matthews and Elizabeth Heap.
The day started with the welcome and the opening devotions led by Rev Wesley
Blakey, the Chairman of District.
A session was then held, reporting on the work of the District:
1. Dr Ron Jones reported on the work being done by the Policy Committee
2. Cliff Lewer spoke on the preparations for the Methodst Conference 2004,
being held in Loughborough in June
3. Rev Andrew Barker talked on the work being done by Christian Aid
4. Mrs Dinah Dudley told of the concerns about the Draft Gambling Bill, which
would enable children to play on Category D [Slot] Machines, 'open-up' access
to casinos with no requirement of previous membership. Concern was also expressed
that it may also enable gambling on credit. A letter expressing all these
concerns had been prepared for Tessa Jowell, Secretary of State for Culture,
Media and Sport. This was available for members of the Synod to sign
5. Rev Mike Cassidy gave the property report, pointing out that David Moor
would give any help needed with property schedules
This was then followed by two very interesting speakers. Firstly, Rev Maureen
Priddon, Associate Priest at St John's Church, Mickleover, spoke about asylum
seekers. Then Detective Constable Glen Williams, Chairman of the Black Police
Federation, working with the Nottingham Constabulary, who spoke on racial
justice issues. We then divided into groups to discuss both these subjects.
The afternoon session started with a plenary session, again regarding asylum
seekers and racial justice. Following that, several other reports were given,
including one on the Methodist Youth Conference (held in Bolton in November
2003).
Finally, the Synod concluded with the Ordinands' Testimony Service, when two
very inspiring testimonies were given by Rev Lesley Hughes and Rev Ian Mead,
both of whom are to be ordained at this year's conference.
Elizabeth Heap
Ashbourne Women's Fellowship
Women's Fellowship continues to meet every fortnight at 2.15pm in Cornerstone.
Everyone will be most welcome to join us. If transport is required please
ring Carole Thorpe no later than the Sunday before the meeting on the following
Tuesday.
Methodist Conference
A special reminder of the Methodist Conference in Loughborough from 22nd June
till 1st July. I would ask you to lift up in your prayers all those taking
part and those who have made all the arrangements.
Saturday 26th June at 2pm is the induction of the new President - Will Morrey
and the Vice President - Myrtle Poxon and tickets can be obtained from Ian
Marsh.
Sunday Morning Worship at 10.30 is very special and will be on the theme of
senses - our new President is profoundly deaf. Please come and join Methodists
at Conference for this service - tickets again from Ian Marsh plus an order
form to have Lunch on the campus following.
Cliff Lewer
Dates for your Diary
MAY
Sun 30th 6.30pm Circuit Service Ashbourne
JUNE
Sun 13th 9am Brailsford_Alive@9 Brailsford
Sun 13th 6.30pm Hulland Chapel Anniversary
Wed 16th 10am Network District Day Derby
Wed 16th 7pm Milldale Service Milldale
Sat 19th Children Don't Bite Ashbourne
Sun 20th 2pm Activity Afternoon at Brailsford Village Hall
Sun 20th 4pm Open Air Circuit Service, with Picnic Tea Brailsford Village
Hall
22nd - 27th Methodist Conference Loughborough
Sun 27th 9am Brailsford_Alive@9 Brailsford
Tues 29th 12.30pm Ashbourne Church Lunch Century Hall
JULY
Sat 3rd 2pm District Network Garden Party Ripley
Sun 4th 10am Parwich Praise
Sun 4th Ashbourne Chapel Anniversary (inc. BBQ at 12noon)
If you would like to contribute an article for the magazine, I will be happy
to publish it.
Items for the July/August Ashbourne Church Magazine to me by 9pm on Wednesday
16th June
Stuart Green, , place items in the "Newsletter" pigeon-hole at church,
or e-mail me.