*******************************************
Some of Our Recent Events
January and February 2010
Vision4Life
The two House groups have continued to meet and have been following the Vision4Life material about prayer. The groups have looked at:
examples of Jesus praying in the face of challenges and situations;
of how Jesus often prayed alone;
of where each individual finds the most suitable place to pray
and
of different approaches to corporate prayer in church.
During Lent the Vision4Life groups will not meet but, instead will undertake a five week study on the York course “When I survey….Christ’s Cross and Ours”
January 25th 2010
Haiti Earthquake Appeal
Thousands of people have died and countless more are injured and homeless after the devastating earthquake in Haiti. This small country is one of the poorest places on earth, and this disaster will create untold suffering and hardship to already vulnerable communities.
We held retiring collections after the services on February 17th and 24th and have now sent a cheque for £193.16 to the Christian Aid Haiti Appeal Fund. Many thanks to those who gave so generously.
If anyone missed the collection and would like to contribute, please give your donation to the Church Treasurer for forwarding to Christian Aid.
A Prayer for Haiti
Loving God of creation,
at this time of devastation
we hold before you the people of Haiti.
When the damage is unimaginable,
and the suffering seems overwhelming,
remind us that every person affected
is loved, honoured and precious in your sight.
We remember all those who have been hurt;
all who have lost their homes, livelihoods and loved ones.
Work through us to bring healing
to broken and distorted lives,
peace to those who have been thrown into despair
light to those in darkness,
and hope to those who fear.
We ask this in the name of Jesus
in whom all life and grace is found.
Amen
Saturday January 16th 2010
Dramatic Performance of St. Mark’s Gospel
A most moving and inspiring dramatic presentation of the whole of St. Mark’s Gospel was given by Mr Emmanuel Toutoungi.December 20th 2009
Jesus is the Reason for the Season

During the Morning Service painted pebbles were distributed to the congregation. Each pebble had a picture of Baby Jesus in swaddling clothes. On the reverse side were the words, “Jesus is the Reason for the Season”. Each member of the congregation was encouraged to take their pebble, and some extra ones if they so wished, to give to friends and neighbours. Each pebble had an accompanying illustrated card and a scriptural reference to the birth of Jesus. The words of a prayer included in the card were:
“Loving God, help us to remember the birth of Jesus,
that we may share in the song of the angels,
the gladness of the shepherds
and the worship of the wise men.
Amen”
It is hoped that this will be a means of letting others know the true meaning of Christmas.
December 13th 2009
Christingle Service

The children (and adults) enjoyed making Christingles during the morning service. The symbolism of the Christingle is that:
the Earth (and its people) is represented by the orange, the white candle at the centre represents Christ’s purity and the flame of the candle portrays Jesus as Light of the world. The red ribbon around the orange reminds us of the blood that Christ shed for us and the surrounding sweets represent the fruits of the earth.
November 15th 2009
Operation Christmas Child

October 3rd 2009
Craft Fair
We raised
£1079 at our
recent Craft Fair.

This money goes towards the upkeep and maintenance
of the church premises.


