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CONNECTIONS
ASHBOURNE METHODIST CIRCUIT
MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2006
From The Manse
Dear Friends,
I am now back from my Sabbatical. I have had some wonderful experiences. I am so grateful to the church for this "gift". My theme was Peacemaking and Reconciliation.
I began with two weeks at Corrymeela in Northern Ireland. This is the centre
for reconciliation located on a beautiful cliff top site on the North Antrim
coast. I was very impressed by the work I saw there. They work with adult
groups, teenage groups, children's groups, mothers and children who have been
traumatised by "the troubles".
I was able to sit in on one adult group from North Belfast, half Catholic
and half Protestant. The facilitator was very skilled in drawing out the stories
and making sure the parties listened to each other, then guiding them on.
This group has been meeting together for some two years so they know each
other well and have formed firm friendships.
At the end of their stay they were asked how they would share the Corrymeela
experience with their church and community when they went back. One gentleman
stated he would not even be able to mention the word "Corrymeela"
without provoking a hostile reaction. There are still many
bigoted folk in his community. So the work of Corrymeela continues to be very
necessary steadily bringing more and more people to the point of reconciliation.
I heard many stories of the groups who come to Corrymeela with fear and suspicion,
but leave embracing as friends.
After holiday in Donegal my next destination was the Taizé community,
in the Burgandy region of France. My week at Taizé was for me the highlight
of my Sabbatical. It is a God centred place. You feel you are in the presence
of God the whole time. The brother's code of living is "simplicity".
If you live a life of simplicity then you are able to welcome any one, whatever
their background. We had simple accommodation. I was in a dormitory of 6 with
3 Swedes, a German and a Nigerian. We had simple food eaten off one
plastic bowl. More in line with what the majority Two-thirds of the world
have to eat. And we had simple worship, the heart of the Community life.
Worship was 3 times a day, before breakfast, before lunch and after supper.
The Taizé songs usually have one line - a positive statement about
the goodness of God, or how God is there for us in trouble, or receive God's
Peace and Love. The reading is short and carefully chosen to make sure its
message is easy to understand. Then follows ten minutes silence for you to
meditate on the words you've heard and to pray.
There were 800 people when I arrived, 1,200 by the end of the week. During July and August they have some 5,000 young people every week. They come from all over Europe and all over the world. I heard many stories of people who come, hurt, doubting, angry, searching… but in Taizé you encounter God, discover that he loves you and are enabled to be open to God, to listen to God. It is a life changing place.
My third experience was a course run by the Mennonites on "Conflict
Resolution in the Church" training as a mediator. This was a very intensive
course and I learned a lot. No doubt this will come out in my preaching and
teaching over the next year!
The Mennonite Church is a "Peace Church". They send Peacemaker groups
into areas of conflict. Norman Kember in Iraq was a part of one such group.
Two booklets I commend to you. "Peacemaking, a Christian Vocation" the new joint Methodist/URC report. And "Becoming a Peace Church" by Alan & Eleanor Kreider (a Mennonite publication). I will obtain copies of these for our church library.
While I have been away the Circuit Stewards have been consulting about what minister is wanted after my 5 year term ends. As a result of this consultation I have accepted that I should move on in August 2007.
God Bless, Chris
The Magazine of Ashbourne Methodist Circuit
Dear Friends,
Welcome to this new edition of your magazine. We've now got a title for it,
"CONNECTIONS". This title will I hope reflect what the magazine
is all about - making connections between each other as individuals, other
Christian churches in the area and in the Circuit editions between the chapels
in the Circuit.
For this to work we need your contributions. Share your experiences, holidays, faith journey, book reviews, thoughts on life, serious and amusing. Don't be afraid to be controversial, it's good to get a debate going!
A number of items have had to be held over this time due to lack of space. Please don't be offended , I'll use them when I can.
I hope to publish the next edition on October 1st. Deadline for copy will
be 9.00pm Wednesday 20th September.
Please E-mail ashbournemethodistmagzine@supanet.com by post to 2 Hambleton
Close Ashbourne DE6 1NG or newsletter pigeon hole at AMC.
Arthur Watts
Worship Support Teams
Many of you will recall the worship consultation meeting in February this year. This generated a lot of thought, much appreciation for what is already happening and many different ideas as to how we might further develop worship in our church. The general consensus was that we should consider the structure and content of the first part of our Sunday morning service with a view to making it as accessible as possible to all worshippers, of whatever age, background or tradition, building on and strengthening our worship together every week as a whole church family.
At its meeting in March the Church Council asked the Worship Development Group to consider this further, including the idea of forming trained teams to support the leadership of worship, under the guidance and supervision of accredited local preachers. I am pleased to say that several people have expressed an interest in becoming members of such teams - offering gifts of speaking, prayer leadership, reading, audio visual presentation, singing, music, dance, drama, art and others - and have already received some initial training to help them test their calling to this type of ministry. The next steps are to confirm the prospective team members, form the teams and begin detailed planning, including further training, as required.
We hope to launch the worship support teams at the Harvest Festival service on the morning of 1st October, which will be a Family Service. We are also looking forward to a theme preaching series on the Lord's Prayer during October and November which we hope will include contributions from members of the new teams.
If you would like to join a worship support team yourself, whether on a regular basis or just occasionally, or if you would be interested in learning more about what is involved, please speak to Tim Dutton, Chris Eddy or myself.
David Bale
BOOK REVIEW
"Whose life is it anyway?" by Neil Hood.
Authentic Lifestyle - Paternoster Publishing. ISBN 1-85078-461-2.
This is a Christian discipleship book that would be equally valuable to men
or women. It advertises itself with the following: "Not sure where the
time goes as you struggle to combine life in the workplace, home and church?
Frustrated that you don't live the life that you should live. But stop.
Whose life is it anyway? This is one of the most important questions a Christian
could ask. Blinded by our own busyness we try to squeeze God into our time,
our circumstances and our plans. But what as Christians, is our
primary responsibility?"
The book is divided into 3 sections: relationships, realities and responsibilities.
The topics covered are: Lifestyle, environment, stewardship, work, ambition,
the call of God, time out for review and response, making choices and where
next. It is well written and easy to follow, Bible based with helpful reflection
and action points.
Ruth Mallard
FANCY A DAY OUT?
A VISIT TO EPWORTH
(By arrangement with Rev. David and Mrs. Susan Leese)
Provisional arrangements have been made for a full days outing to Epworth
(North Lincs.) to visit the Old Rectory (home of the Wesley family) and the
Wesley Memorial Chapel. This will be on Tuesday October 3rd. leaving Ashbourne
at 9.00am
The cost will be ????? and will include:
Coach from Ashbourne (including driver gratuity)
Coffee etc. at the Manse on arrival
Visit to the Wesley Memorial Chapel
Lunch
Guided tour of the Old Rectory, which is a registered museum
Visit to the newly opened John Wesley Physic Garden
Light refreshments before returning home
We would hope to be back in Ashbourne by 7pm.
This will be a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the Wesley's
and of Methodism. I need to know if there is sufficient interest to proceed
with the arrangements so please book your place NOW with Marianne (343208)
from whom further details are available.
Eric Matthews
NCH
How quickly autumn seems to have come round! Our Support Group is now working
towards the annual Coffee Morning to be held this year on Saturday October
28th from l0am-l2noon. As you know we have held a series of really successful
coffee mornings at Hurtswood Conference centre over the past few years but
now must find a new venue. We have decided to hold this year's event at St
Oswald's Church Hall, making the parking much easier for you all.
We will be having all the usual stalls, including, dare I mention it, Christmas
gifts and wrapping paper, with many small items suitable for the shoe box
appeal. I can guarantee that the setting will be relaxed and happy and the
expected quality of delicious cakes to accompany the coffee will be available.
We hope you've all been trying hard to answer the latest NCH quiz on English towns. It's not too late to get one, price £1, from any group member, as we will be announcing the winner at the coffee morning.
If anyone can help with contributions of home-made produce, cakes for sale or for coffee, good quality bric-a-brac or books please let any of the group know. Also, of course, if lifts are required on the day, we shall be only too pleased to oblige.
NCH Support Group Members in the Ashbourne Circuit :-
Heather Garbutt 344886, Doris Harrison 300273, Betty & Mike Hadley 300699,
Sandra & Cliff Lewer 324404, Marianne& Eric Matthews 343208, Judith
Starkey 347005, Val Howse 01889 90870.
Uttoxeter Circuit:- Margaret Todd ex-directory.
Korea
Leaving the UK on 4th July for this Asian venue, the objective was to attend the World Federation of Methodist and Uniting Church Women's 11th conference (held each 5 years) in Jeju Island situated off the south coast of the country and to attend part of the World Methodist Conference (also a 5 yearly event) in Seoul the capital of Korea - plus to have some holiday.
All of these objectives were met with hugely more benefits than had been expected both in the seeing and feeling how a different country lives and worships and in meeting a vast number of people from all over the world, not least the extremely hospitable Koreans.
Our trip took us firstly to Seoul with its clean streets, exemplary sanitary facilities, a wonderful metro system which whisks its users all over the city of 10m plus people for a journey cost of 900Wan (60p), ancient gates and palaces, thousands of shops and huge open air markets many of which are open all night.
The opportunity was taken to visit the De Militarized Zone (DMZ), a 4 km
wide no mans land between North and South Korea, two parts of a country that
has been officially at war for over 50 years and who have never agreed a truce.
The visit is conducted only for non Koreans and is done in the utmost security,
passports checked twice, two forms of transport, prohibition of pointing fingers
or making gesticulations and photographs only where authorised.
We were there a few days after the North Koreans had tested their rockets
causing an international storm and heightening the tension of the border even
further. It was an indescribable experience to be in the Nissan hut where
the two sides meet occasionally, surrounded by armed soldiers with every word
spoken transmitted to North Korean guards just a few yards away. It was a
complete eye opener to see at first hand the fragility of this situation and
to realise that the border is only 25 km from the South Korean parliament
building.
This situation of tension overshadows the whole nation of south Korea and at all points of the coast and airports, guards, barbed wire etc are in evidence.
To Jeju - the Hawaii of South Korea, a beautiful island about 30miles by
20 miles with 600,000 inhabitants, famed for its satsumas, having the oldest
nutmeg tree in the world and being semi autonomous in government, a follow
on from atrocities following the Korean War of the 50's.
Our venue for the Women's conference was the Ramada Plaza Hotel, built in
the shape of an ocean liner and situated on the sea front of Jeju town, here
some 800 women from over 70 nations met for 7 days beginning for those who
could rise with meditation at 6 a.m. and finishing after various continents
had given their cultural shows at 9.30 p.m. each day.
Network of the Methodist Church forms one unit of the Federation with our
sisters in Ireland and we operate together alternating each 5 years the Presidency
and Vice Presidency of the Britain and Ireland 'Unit'
I am not an officer of the Federation and attended as an observer along with
some 20 other ladies from Britain, business sessions concentrated on the World
Millennium Goals, many activities were available from Korean dancing, a culture
tour to a museum, stone centre and the nutmeg wood, international market stalls
(some of the income assists in some nations representatives being able to
attend) and a labyrinth for study.
The programme for the week is a 105 page booklet of reports, schedules, programmes
etc and the main concentration was on Key note speakers, bible studies and
the Millennium goals. All of this was interspersed with the warmth of Korean
welcomes, cultural performances, Korean food and some sleep!
The World Development Goals form a blueprint that all the world's countries
have agreed as have all the world's leading development institutions, they
have galvanised unprecedented efforts to meet the needs of the worlds poorest.
1. Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger. - reduce by half the number of people
living on less than a dollar a day. Reduce by half the number of people who
suffer from hunger.
2. Achieve Universal Primary Education. - Ensure that all boys and girls complete
a full course of primary schooling.
3. Promote gender equality and empower women. - Eliminate gender disparity
in primary and secondary education at all levels by 2015.
4. Reduce Child Mortality. - Reduce by two thirds the mortality rate among
children under 5.
5. Improve maternal health. - Reduce maternal mortality by three quarters.
6. Combat HIV/Aids, Malaria and other diseases. - Halt and begin to reverse
the spread of HIV/Aids, Halt and begin the to reverse the incidence of malaria
and other major diseases. In cooperation with the developing countries, develop
decent and productive work for youth. In cooperation with pharmaceutical companies,
provide access to affordable essential drugs in developing countries.
7. Ensure environment sustainability. - integrate the principles of sustainable
development into country policies and programmes, reverse loss of environmental
resources. Reduce by half the number of people without sustainable access
to safe drinking water. Achieve significant improvement in lives of at least
100million slum dwellers by 2020.
8. Develop a global partnership for development. - Develop further an open
trading and financial system that is rule based, predictable and non-discriminatory.
Includes a commitment to good governance, development and poverty reduction
- nationally and internationally. Address the special needs of the least developed
countries. This includes Tariff - and quota free access for their exports;
enhanced debt relief for heavily indebted poor countries; cancellation of
official bilateral debt; and more generous official development assistance
for countries committed to poverty reduction. Address the special needs of
landlocked and small island developing states. Deal comprehensibly with developing
countries' debt problems through national and international measures to make
debt sustainable in the long term. In cooperation with the private sector,
make available the benefits of new technologies - especially information and
communication technologies.
All this by 2015.
The world federation has been working towards these goals in all parts of the world and reports were presented from each region on the work done and the achievements that could be measured. The conference set the continuing work towards these goals as the work of the next 5 years of which the Women's Network of the Methodist Church is committed.
A stunning, busy and exhausting week for all but a special atmosphere that overrode the cultural and language differences of the women all of whom are united by the love of Christ and are committed to work for him.
Returning to Seoul we were adopted by Chang Myoung Hei, the lady who had attempted to teach me Korean dancing and we were honoured and privileged to be shown some of the huge Christian churches of this city on the day prior to the opening of the World Methodist Conference in KamNan Methodist Church situated in the suburbs of the city.
Visiting Kwanglim Methodist Church, The Non Liberal Presbyterian Central
Church, The Liberal Presbyterian Central Church, these were huge buildings
seating 3- 4000 people in the sanctuary and having Mission centres, Education
centres, Housing for Pastors etc.
Kwanglim recently rebuilt on its site for the 4th time in order to accommodate
all of its work has Adventure Homes, Old peoples Homes, Education centres
etc all out of town and attached to the huge Church in town it has a mission
house, education centre, multi storey car park, large specialist children's
play area, pastor's housing and has some 6 services on a Sunday each of over
4,000 people, a Sunday school fully equipped with lap tops on desks etc etc.
KamNan is the largest Methodist Church in Korea and was the venue for the
Conference, the Council having been held elsewhere in Seoul on the previous
two days.
A sanctuary seating 10,000 people, a church membership of 110,000 people (this
is all people connected to the church and not a membership in UK terms), built
over 10 storeys with a submerged car park, this is an impressive building
and a huge witness to the Lord.
Christianity in Korea is 121 years old but has had huge problems with Japanese
occupation and then the Korean War, about 26% of the population of 48m is
now Christian with a similar number Buddhist. 1.5m are Methodist and the objective
of the Methodist Church in Korea is to achieve 3m members.
The conference was again notable for the wonderful welcome of the Korean people many sporting the national costume as they directed and welcomed us. About 2 ½ thousand people attended from 132 countries and 70 different Methodist Conferences. Music was a major part of the proceedings with a ½ hr welcome each morning from a choir and orchestra, each one belonging to a Methodist Church or a group of churches and the choir numbering 3 to 400 plus orchestra. We had many soloists in both Korean traditional instruments and in western instruments, all were of a very high standard.
The Methodist Recorder has written a 10 page report on the Conference and Council which can be made available to anyone who is interested but as observers we were part of very moving Bible studies and Key note speeches on the theme God in Christ Reconciling - an obviously poignant theme for a country desperate to unite. Examples were given of Northern Ireland, South Africa and the Indian Sub continent where reconciliation is ongoing and we heard also about many other places
Myanmar, The Middle East, some African countries etc where huge tasks await to reconcile peoples in the name of the Lord.
We were sad to leave Seoul and the conference but Girl Guide camp called!!
A trip where the weather varied from typhoon, flood, hot and sticky, hot and nice and pure humid, temperatures in the region of 27C to 32C and humidity of 70% to 95% - i.e. almost raining!
Memories will be of kindness, cleanliness, the overwhelming love of God and friends for life, but so very much to do to right the huge wrongs of our world.
Sandra Lewer ( accompanied by Cliff)
The Invisible Hand?
A quote from former MP George Walden's book review of 'Reviving the Invisible
Hand: The Case for Classical Liberalism in the Twenty-First
Century' by Deepak Lal.
'[The author] delights in mounting unembarrassed defences of everything that wrings liberal withers. He is wholly in favour of outsourcing, a prime target of the anti-globalists, as a boon to all concerned, and produces figures to show that the despised multinationals by and large pay higher wages and offer better conditions to employees than they would otherwise enjoy. He scorns ineffectual attempts to reduce child labour by people who neglect the lesson that the practice springs from poverty, and that the only sure way of reducing it is prosperity, which experience has shown that only capitalism brings.'
I feel this is an interesting quotation in the light of Church activities
and debates over free trade, fair trade and globalisation.
Andrew I Lewer
(Well, what do you think? Brief comments welcome for next edition of "Connections"
Editor)
Operation Christmas Child - Shoe Boxes
With the approach of Autumn, and with only a few weeks to go before the deadline
for completing shoe boxes, many of you will be thinking about what to put
into your boxes.
All through this year many people have been making items which will help you,
and these are available from Marianne Matthews or other involved members.
As last year we will have these on display from mid-October after morning
service in the Century Hall. In particular we have as usual hats, scarves
and mittens, glove puppets and enough draw string bags for everyone to include
in their box. There may also be other things available, such as friendship
bracelets and hair scrunchies. The new leaflets will be available from mid-September.
Please take careful note of what can and cannot be included as it may differ slightly from last year - receiving countries change their import allowances from time to time. The other important thing to note is the preferred size of the boxes. Very large boxes, e.g. boot boxes, have to be split as they cannot be packed into the despatching cartons. Your gifts will, in that event, be placed into alternative boxes. Conversely, very small boxes are re-packed into larger ones in fairness to the children receiving gifts. If you are in doubt please have a word with Marianne or myself.
As soon as I know where our boxes may be going I will let you know. "Shoe
Box Sunday", when we ask you to bring your gifts, will be on 19th November.
Craft Mornings have been arranged for September 27th and October 25th (half
term - children welcome) in Cornerstone, 10 am - 12 noon. Come and see what
we are doing, join in if you wish, or just have a cup of coffee and a chat.
No need to book - stay as long as you wish. All we ask is a 50p donation.
Betty Hadley
CHURCH LIBRARY
"Discipleship" reading material is available on the top shelf and
on display at the church library.
Book reviews always welcome for this magazine.
Great offers available at Wesley Owen, Derby. Please take a leaflet
ON THE BRINK (Rev ch.3 v 20)
Busy churches, activities abound,
Committees, groups and meetings all around.
Too busy to pray, too busy to think
Jesus is waiting out there on the brink.
Come to ME if weary, I'll give you rest.
Take MY yoke on you, learn from ME what's best.
Worried, ill, lonely; groups make them feel tense.
Jesus is waiting out there on the fence.
Just a cup of tea, a bit of lunch with ME.
All I'm asking is hospitality.
Just keep it simple, don't need perfect order.
Jesus is waiting out there on the border.
I stand at the door, a welcome I seek
To listen to ME and befriend the weak.
A coffee or supper, when they are failing
Jesus is waiting out here by the railing.
Church family's there to shield and protect,
Patience, kindness and gentleness reflect
To the least, Christ's love is there for them all.
Jesus is waiting out there by the wall.
Anon.
Ashbourne Gift Day 2006
The total so far for Gift Day 2006 is £5978.00.
This money has been earmarked for the Ashbourne Methodist Church's contribution
to the ACE Youth worker, when that project begins. Most of the money has been
gift-aided, which will add considerably to the total.
Many thanks to all those who gave so generously, but also many thanks to those
who gift-aided their contribution, and to those who took on the task of counting
and banking the money!
We do rely so much on a team of very reliable and conscientious people to
do all this behind the scenes. Ann Parkinson
---------------------------------
LOCAL NETWORK
Meeting at Hulland - Thursday 7 September
Our next event will be a meeting at Hulland on Thursday 7 September 2006 at
2.15 pm. The speaker will be Mrs June Harbey. There will be refreshments and
a Bring and Buy Stall at the close. If you would like to go and require transport,
please contact Alma (343751) who will endeavor to arrange it. All welcome!
District Day - Wednesday 11 October
Our next District Day on 11 October will be at Queen's Hall, Derby. There
will be the usual business meeting in the morning at 10.30 am (Coffee from
10.00 am), during which the outgoing President, Mrs Pam Kilby, be handing
over the proceeds of her project to the Kidney Patients Fund. In the afternoon
at 2 pm, the new District President, Mrs Monica Sanders, will be commissioned.
Our own Gwenda Alcock will be taking over as District Vice-President at the
same time. Do come along - it will be great time of fellowship and worship!
Further details from Alma (343751).
Caribbean Evening
Our next Circuit event will be a Caribbean Evening in the Century Hall on
Monday 23 October. Please make a note of the date and watch out for further
details!
God's Need or Ours?
Perhaps yours is not so much a need as a heartfelt longing:
To see a loved one healed? To see unbelieving members of your family, or perhaps
a dear friend, come to know Jesus.
These are just random examples of human needs and longings, to which we can
all relate, and which are all valid. In our daily lives there are many needs
and wants which we must try to meet from our own resources. We work to make
ends meet, and hopefully have a bit left over to enjoy ourselves. We take
medicines, have operations, to improve our health.
The important question to which our human resources have no answer is:
What does our Father God see as our most urgent need?
Certainly He expects us to look after our families, to use the resources
He has provided. He has created us with intelligence to learn all that we
can about every part of His creation in which He has planted us.
However, before we are able to apply to the full all His wonderful provision
for His children, He tells us, in the words of His Son, of our most fundamental
need.
Jesus tells us, in John 3:3, that if we are to enter the kingdom of heaven
we must be born again. In His discourse with Nicodemus, Jesus explains that
"Unless a man is born of water (human birth) and of the (Holy) Spirit
he cannot enter the kingdom of heaven." When we were conceived we received
human life from our parents, which included a human spirit. At that time we
also received free will, so that it is up to each individual to decide to
invite Jesus into his/her life, in order that we may have a personal relationship
with Him. Without this personal relationship we cannot know or understand
what Father God requires of each one of us. This is part I of God's provision
for us.
Part II of the act of becoming a Christian is, in Jesus' own words, to be
filled with, or baptised in, the third person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit.
This may occur when we invite Jesus into our hearts, but if it does not (you
will know one way or the other), then come into the presence of Jesus, and
ask Him to fill you with His Spirit.
In Luke 11:1 1-13 Jesus assures His disciples: "Which of you fathers,
if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? Or if he asks
for an egg will give him a scorpion? If you, then, though you are evil, know
how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in
heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!" This is God's need
for His children, and it is our need for our God and Father. Not because I,
or some evangelist, say so, but because His Word, which should be our Spiritual
text book, tells us so. He cannot work in us and through us in the ways He
has planned if we do not know Him and Jesus personally.
To answer my original question then:
God sees that our greatest need is to have a personal relationship with Jesus,
which means making our own personal invitation to Him. To really blossom as
God's people we must also be filled with, or baptised in, the Holy Spirit.
I'm aware that these words 'born again' and 'baptised in the Holy Spirit'
are, these days, bandied about, but they are Jesus' own words. Whatever others
may make of them, for the born again Christian they are very real and
profound experiences, and ones that we deny ourselves at our peril. I offer
the following texts so that you may confirm for yourselves what I've tried
to communicate:
Matt.3: 11 'He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire' (the latter
to be able to communicate our faith to others with fervour.
Markl:8; Luke 3:16; Luke 11:11-13; John I:33b 'The man on whom you see the
Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptise with the Holy Spirit';
Acts 2:1-21; Acts4:31; Acts 8:15-17; Acts 1l:1-17;Rom.8:9-l1; lCor.2:14:16.
I've heard various reasons, from people who go to church, for not following
these steps of faith:
"We have everything we need - we really don't feel the need to receive
anything else from God."
"Jesus has been with me all my life."
"I was born to Christian parents and have always gone to church."
"I'm not good enough to expect God to give me anything."
These are just a few of the reasons church-going people have given me for
not giving their whole lives to, and putting their complete trust in, Jesus.
Sheila Paterson
Visit to North India for members of Derbyshire Churches, March 2007
A visit to the Church of North India is being planned for March 2007. The trip, lasting between two and three weeks, will give an opportunity for participants to experience Indian life and culture and to learn about the Indian Church in two different dioceses.
Those who take part in the visit will be expected to report back on the trip
to their local churches, as well as contributing to the celebration of the
30th
Anniversary of the Derbyshire-CNI partnership in May 2007.
The cost of the trip per person will probably be around £800 - £1000,
including a donation to an environmental charity designed to offset the carbon
impact of the flight.
If you are interested in being considered for the visit, please complete
an application form obtainable from the Chairman of the Derbyshire Churches
CNI Partnership Council, Rev. Christopher Harrison, The Vicarage, Parwich,
Ashbourne DE6 1QD tel. 01335 390226 or christopher.d.harrison@btinternet.com
There will be an introductory meeting about the visit on Saturday 9th September
at 10.00 am at Pear Tree Road Baptist Church, 152-154 Pear Tree Road, Derby
Initial interviews for places will be held at that meeting, subsequent interviews
will take place as necessary.
The CNI trip is unlikely to visit the Diocese of Patna but John and Elizabeth
Hurfurt and others are hoping to go to Patna in February 2007 to spend time
working there, mainly doing English conversation. We are awaiting confirmation
from Bishop Philip, but if anyone would like to join us or know more about
either of the visits then please talk to us.
John and Elizabeth Hurfurt
Prayer - Each month we are committed to pray for some aspect of the work
of the Diocese of Patna. In September we are asked to pray for St Paul's School,
Begusarai and its Headmaster Mr G.R. George.
ASHBOURNE CHURCH FAMILY NEWS
Welcome to Rev and Mrs Broadhurst and to Mr and Mrs Steve Fellowes, Bethanie,
Rebecca, Emily and Josh who have moved to Ashbourne. May God be with them
as they settle into their new homes.
Congratulations to Rowan Bale, Jenny Marsh, Sam Fielding and Heather Mawdsley
who have gained degrees. To Tom Allen who has gained a joinery apprenticeship
To Dr Jenifer Barrie, now working in a Macclesfield Hospital.
May God guide you in your future work and study.
Dougie Hume - Has now been moved to Wirksworth Ward of Kingsway Hospital.
Thanks for prayers offered.
NEWS FROM AROUND THE CIRCUIT
PARWICH
What a pleasure it was to welcome Harry and Lyn back for our Chapel Anniversary
in May! We enjoyed a most uplifting service and it was good that so many were
able to stay afterwards to continue fellowship over tea and cakes. Our thanks
as ever to Valerie and Alison for their generous contributions to these occasions.
We were delighted to welcome the Vicar of Parwich, Revd Christopher Harrison,
to lead our worship in June, and also to meet Revd Ted Ager and his wife last
month. What a coincidence it was to discover that while I was training at
Southlands College, Ted was just down the road at Richmond. We also discovered
that we shared lecturers as he had come over to Southlands for Divinity lectures
with the Rev Dr Kibblewhite and the delightful Coralie Parsons. Who knows
perhaps we sat together in those lectures all those years ago.
I received an e-mail from a friend in Australia on the subject of coincidence.
It had originated in America and was about people who had survived 9/11 for
a variety of reasons. One was wearing new shoes that caused a blister resulting
in him calling in at the drugstore for a plaster and making him late for work.
Another was late because his son had started school that day, and another
because it was his turn to bring in the doughnuts for the office. The e-mail
went on to say that whenever we are irritated by having to turn back to answer
the phone or stuck in traffic perhaps we should think that is where God wants
us to be at that very moment. Makes you think doesn't I?
Jan Smith
BRAILSFORD
We are currently running Pyramid Rock Holiday Club on Wednesdays in August. The numbers of children attending so far have been: 24, 29, 31, and we have 2 weeks left to run!
The theme of the holiday club is the story of Joseph:
Week 1 The loving God had a plan for Joseph and his brothers, just as God has plans for us.
Week 2 God is our helper - he is always with us and gives strength and wisdom.
Week 3 God provides for his people. He provided favour, food, wisdom and dreams for Joseph.
Week 4 God loves to forgive! Joseph was like his God, and showed forgiveness to those who had hurt him.
Week 5 God is in control of the nations. He is powerful and good.
We have action-packed days with games, songs, a DVD, prayers, crafts and time to listen and learn about God's love for everyone.
Please pray for the children attending and their families. Please pray for the leaders for strength and patience as they continue this work.
Jane Baker
ALPHA at Brailsford
We are planning an Alpha introduction supper on Monday 4 September at 7.30pm.
Anyone interested in helping in any way, please contact David or Jane Baker
on 346814.
Please pray for anyone you think you could invite to the supper. And if you're
reading this and have never been on the course yourself, why not give it a
go?
On the verge of another Methodist year I can look back with pleasure at the
Women's Fellowship which meets once a month in the Brailsford Chapel.
Last year I felt rather despondent about ourselves, however during the year
we seem to have strengthened our fellowship and friendships have deepened.
Perhaps one reason has been an increase in the outings we have shared, which
have given the opportunity to talk, share our experiences and enjoy a day
out. We are ever grateful to Christine who does so much in the background
and Grace who plays the organ. Heather and Chris have kept our souls nourished.
Otherwise, we have seen much of "off the beat" Derbyshire and explored
small areas of Staffordshire, all due to the skills of the Community Bus drivers.
I feel sure that we are ready for September and looking forward to all that
The Lord has in store for us during another year and playing our part in the
life of the Chapel in Brailsford.
Kniveton.
The annual well dressings are now an important part of the calendar, this
year perhaps being one of the best to date. During the week there was an
exhibition of scare crows, activities of all kinds with a special evening
given by Church Warden John Bradbury and his wife Nancy. John had received
the MBE for his services to the community. The village hall was full as people
enjoyed the evening. The high light was seeing the video of John receiving
his M.B.E.
The service of Blessing the Wells received stronger support than in previous
years which is a great encouragement. The Well dressing committee had chosen
"The life of Christ" as the theme, each well was beautifully designed
and decorated, and very worthy of the Blessing. A tradition has been established
that the service venue following the Blessing of the wells should alternate
between the church and chapel. This year the Rev Chris Mitchell led the procession
to the wells, gave the Blessing and preached the Word of God to us in the
Chapel.
The service was well attended and the collection of £93 was donated
to the cause of the Air Ambulance. We were most grateful to Anna and Martyn
Davis who led the singing at the wells and continued that good work when the
organ in chapel decided to have a rest
Please remember Mrs Rayworth, she is cheerful but not very comfortable.
Kirk Ireton
Mrs Margaret Booth
Margaret died peacefully on July 7th. The daughter of Mr and Mrs Cooper. Margaret
and John were married for 46 years, making their home in the house where Margaret
was born. She attended the village school as did her family and her granddaughter
Amy is now a pupil in the school.
Margaret was an enthusiastic participant in the planning and carrying out
of the Wakes Week events. Over many years she was a carer of young children,
indeed one child spent many years with her. Older people latterly were cared
for, thoughtfully and lovingly, tearfully disappointed when circumstances
moved them in other directions. Following in her parents footsteps Margaret
was a member of the Chapel, sharing the work of the Sunday School with her
friend Mrs Beryl Spencer for many years.
We are enriched by Margaret's life, a life of deep commitment to her husband,
of loving concern for their children and her prayers and affection for the
grandchildren. Not least her concern for friends and neighbours.
Margaret's family have donated the gifts received in her memory to the Chapel
The sum of £660 has been received with gratitude.
Please remember in your prayers;
Her husband, John, Helen and her family, Mandy, Amy and father Roy and Eileen.
Roy resumed treatment at the Queen's Medical centre.
Mrs Kinder whose husband has died very recently.
Merle Wilde
Ashbourne Churches Together One World Group
is again holding a Harvest Collection of dried foodstuffs for Eastern Europe. As last year our goods will be taken to Belarus probably by Mrs Ann Rimmer of Cubley in October. The foodstuffs we are collecting are;-
Plain Flour; Rice; Pasta; Pulses; Sugar; Salt; Tea; Dried fruit in packets (not tins or jars please because of the weight)
Because of Belarussian import restrictions may we ask that all foods have a "best before date" of not less than six months from the date of Ann's arrival in Belarus so 1st May 2007 or later if possible. Also no milk or meat products may be taken in at present.
As usual it costs money to transport the goods to Belarus and so monetary donations would be very acceptable.
"Mind The Gap:" One World Week 2006
This year, One World Week is from 22nd -29th October and in Ashbourne we will
be focussing on the Gap between our country and those in the developing world.
Mind the Gap in life expectancy, Mind the Gap in literacy, Mind the Gap in
healthcare. Come along to our event on Saturday 28th October in Victoria Square,
from 10am to 12.30pm.
Ashbourne One World Group
MISSION
MATTERS
Pray for mission - Give to mission - Support God's mission
John Wesley coined the phrase, "I look upon all the world as my parish."
Today, many years later, people are still discovering the parish on their
doorstep. Through features in our mission matters articles in each magazine
we hope to challenge, inspire and encourage so we can all find the parish
on our doorsteps. For example on the home front your support made all the
difference to the British churches experimenting successfully with ways of
engaging with today's spiritually hungry but church-disaffected people. Without
giving to the Fund for Home Mission these initiatives would not have been
possible.
A Reflection Adapted from a letter by Revd Graham Wise of FEBV (Fellowship
for Evangelising Britain's Villages).
I was preaching in a church on the South Coast. On the way down there was
a long delay on the M25 with very slow traffic between junctions 18 &
12 - the notorious stretch past Heathrow.
It is an experience that can reflect our Christian life, particularly in relation to the Holy Spirit. Everything is free-flowing and then something happens to create a blockage. On the Day of Pentecost there was a free flow of God's spirit through the Disciples to whole crowds of people such that over three thousand became followers of Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, there were also those who scoffed and opposed it thus barring themselves from God's blessings.
In our own lives and in our churches we need the free flow of God's Spirit so that his kingdom might be realised by those who have not yet found or know him. The experience of slow-moving traffic set me wondering about how we, maybe unwittingly, block the free flow of the Holy Spirit through us into our communities. It's easily done when our own interests take precedence over God's will and when we get caught up in things that actually turn out to be not so important after all.
God's desire is for an openness to him and for his spirit to so move among
us that others may hear the good news and communities may be changed by his
grace. May we be sensitive to his presence, power and potential in our lives.
Bible Society news (from Word in Action)
8:32 campaign, waking up to Bible poverty: John 8:32 "Then you will know
the truth, and the truth will set you free".
In our Bible Society series the topic this month is "Poverty". For a billion people the Bible is a luxury they can't afford. In our world a billion people live on just 60p a day. That's all they have to meet their basic needs. And millions more live on the edge of poverty using every last penny for life's essentials.
Meanwhile the church is growing fast in some of the poorest communities.
That is creating a hunger and urgent need for Bibles at a price people can
afford - for some this must even be free of charge. Only then will Christians
be able to mature and grow. Only then will churches have the knowledge to
hold fast to the truth - and put it into action to transform their communities.
Dr Luis Palau (evangelist, author and radio broadcaster) says: " The Word of God is more important than any radio programme…any commentary…any preaching. The Word of God is the fundamental work."
National Bible Societies are serving the needs of 200 countries with many needing financial support to provide the Bible in affordable ways.
For further information: www.its832.org or 0845 2020832 Donations line: 08707 747676.
Prayer (Written by David Gamble)
Loving God,
Thank you that you did not make us to be alone, but gave us other people to
share our lives: parents, children, partners, families, friends, colleagues,
those with whom we share our days, our hope, our fears; people for whom we
care and those who care for us. We remember those for whom today will be difficult
because someone they love is absent, ill or dying, or because, their lives
or relationships are in a mess. We think of those whose closest relationships
have been abusive, those who feel betrayed, ignored, unloved …. And those
for whom love has died and who are drifting apart. Help us to respect each
other, especially when we disagree, to be honest and acknowledge when we
Meanwhile the church is growing fast in some of the poorest communities. That
is creating a hunger and urgent need for Bibles at a price people can
afford - for some this must even be free of charge. Only then will Christians
be able to mature and grow. Only then will churches have the knowledge to
hold fast to the truth - and put it into action to transform their communities.
Ashbourne Church Prayer Diary
Each year, on behalf of the Church Council, a church prayer diary is produced,
containing the names of everyone within the church so that we can pray for
them on a regular basis. When that person has agreed, their address and telephone
number is also included but this is entirely their choice.
If any of your details are incorrect or have changed, please pass this information
on to Carole Thorpe. If you know of anyone who you think should be included,
please give their name (and address if known) to Carole and she will contact
them for more details. Carole can be contacted by email on cthorpe@tinyonline.co.uk,
by telephone on 346535, a note put in the "T" church pigeon hole
or posted to 12 Cavendish Drive, Ashbourne, DE6 1SR
"Thank you, Roger."
At the end of August Roger Mallard will be completing his period of office as Circuit Youth & Community Worker. Roger took up his appointment in September 2002 and the last four years has been instrumental in starting ininitiatives in the Circuit, especially those for children and young people.
Parwich After-School Club,Ireton After-School Club, Parwich Youth Club,Youth Club and Basement have all owed much of their successes to Roger's vision and hard work. thank God for those and also Roger's other work in the area such as at Elim,monthly gatherings at Dovedale House, theHoliday Clubs, his work in the schools and former Ashbourne Beta Group -not forgetting the Beta Breakfasts! Through Roger's drive and enthusiasm for taking the Gospel into rural communities, scores of children and young people in the Circuit have come to hear of the love of Jesus in some measure and all ages have appreciated the new worship and fellowship opportunities of Praise and Brailsford Alive at 9.
Many of us have followed Roger's work with interest in the pages of this magazine through practical support forvarious activities. Under Roger's custodianship, this work is now drawing to a close but the need for our prayers and our practical support of work in the Circuit continues with increased urgency in light of Roger's departure.
We thank Roger for all he has done. Our Circuit has been enriched and challenged by his dedicated service and commitment and we wish him, Ruth, Joy and Christian every blessing as they seek God's wish for the future.
David Bale
_____________________
"OPEN THE BOOK" - It is hoped that a team from the church
will present short Bible stories to the children at Hilltop School this coming
term. Details have still to be clarified but will be shared with you when
confirmed. It is hoped to enhance the presentations with visual aids and drama
to make the stories come alive. Your prayerful support would be appreciated.
Joy Watts
Gateway Bookings - September
15th - 17thWolsey District Scout Fellowship
22nd - 24thGroup, Leicestershire
29th - 1st OctGirl Guiding Derbyshire
Nigel Jeffrey-Walker
2006 Methodist Conference - Edinburgh
The Methodist Conference is the final policy making forum of The Methodist
Church. It meets annually in June. It's decisions are binding upon local churches.
Unfortunately space limitations preclude details being included here. However,
Cliff Lewer has kindly prepared a digest of the main areas discussed and decisons
taken. If you would like a copy please contact him. (tel 324404 or E-mail
Clifflewer@aol.com
CIRCUIT CHURCH SERVICES
Sunday Ashboume 10.30am with young people's groups. - Becky Dutton (343494)
6.30pm
Brailsford 9.00am Alive@9 on 2nd and 4th Sunday
6.30pm United service 10.45am monthly on 1st Sunday
Hulland 2.30pm
Kirk Ireton 630pm monthly on 4th Sunday
Kniveton 2.30pm Family service 11am monthly on last Sunday
Milldale Special services - see Dates for Your Diary
Parwich 10.00am Parwich Praise, monthly on 1st Sunday
2.30pm fortnightly
Stanton 2.30pm
Tissington 230pm monthly on 3rd Sunday
ADVANCE NOTICE - Book now!
Christian Aid Derby Day - Thursday 16th November
Two chances to meet Mai Jarrar of the YMCA Womens training programme on the
West Bank.
LADIES LUNCH- "Ploughmans" 12noon Central URC Church - nr Debenhams.£1.50
please book.
PALESTINIAN EVENING 7.00pm St Alkmonds Church Kedleston Road
More information and to book contact Lucy at E M Christian Aid Office,
01530 417522, E-mail lwaldron@christian-aid.org
SMILE LINES
THE HOUSING PROBLEM
One day a couple, after returning from a holiday abroad, went to view the
house which they intended to buy. The Vicar showed them over the house but
omitted showing them the W.C.
As they returned to their lodgings they remembered that they had not been
shown it, so they wrote to the vicar for directions of how to find it. The
vicar, ignorant of the term, W.C. thought that they meant the Wesleyan Chapel,
so imagine their surprise when they received the following letter.
Dear Sir and Madam,
I regret to inform you that the nearest W.C. to your home is over eight miles
away. This is rather unfortunate if you are in the habit of going regularly.
However, it may interest you to know that many people take their lunch and
make a day of it. By the way it is built to accommodate 1,000 people and it
has been decided to replace the wooden seats with plush ones to ensure greater
comfort, for some people have to sit for a long time before the proceedings
begin. I myself never go. There are special facilities for the ladies to sit
with the vicar who will give them all the assistance they need. The children
sing all through the proceedings. The last time my wife went was twelve months
ago and she had to stand the whole time. I hope this will be of use to you.
Trusting you will go regularly. Hymn sheets will be found behind the door
on entering.
Yours, The Vicar
Contributed by Tim Dutton
Payment
Three boys were in the school playground, bragging about their fathers. The
first boy said, "My dad scribbles a few words on a piece of, he calls
it a poem, and they give him £50."
The second boy said, "That's nothing. My dad scribblesfew words on a
piece of paper, he calls it a song, they give him £100."
The third boy was not impressed. "Big deal. My dad scribbles a few words
on a piece of paper, he calls it a sermon, and it takes eight people to collect
all the money!"
Harvest Quotes
Thanksgiving is good but thanks-living is better. - Matthew Henry
Christians should have a gratitude attitude. - Stuart Briscoe
Circuit Staff
Rev Chris Eddy; 33 The Green Road; Ashbourne
Sister Merle Wilde; 124 The Green Road; Ashboume
Home Services
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