|
|
|
The pictures on this page are all "thumbnails", click your mouse on them and you will see a larger picture. Use the Back button on your browser to return to this page. Myrtle Poxon, Vice-President, with David and Barbara Coote at circuit
lunch in February
The Visit of the Vice-President Deacon Myrtle Poxon to the Channel Islands District The Channel Islands District was pleased to welcome the Vice-President to the Islands. It was an extremely valuable and enjoyable visit, which gave great encouragement to all. Myrtle first visited Guernsey, which includes within the circuit the Islands of Alderney and Sark and met informally with staff, stewards and local preachers. She was accompanied by the Superintendent minister Rev Ian Suttie to see the ambitious NCH Youth Project in St. Peter Port. NCH has recently created facilities for young people in Guernsey who are facing various difficulties. The project includes new 'training flats', which will offer young people who need temporary accommodation a secure place. She shared in the weekly fellowship service and refreshments at Maison L'Aumone, the Methodist Home in Guernsey and heard about plans for the expansion of its accommodation. A highlight for many was Myrtle's after dinner talk to over ninety people who attended a Circuit lunch arranged by the Network Group at the Les Cotils Christian Centre.
Deacon Myrtle Poxon learns about Jersey from Mrs. Idrys Buesnel at the Ambassadeur Hotel
Myrtle with Stuart Court residents After spending two full days in Guernsey the Vice-President flew to Jersey and was taken straight away by the Chair of District and Superintendent of the Jersey Circuit Rev David Coote and his wife Barbara to St Aubin for the beginning of St Aubin’s twenty four hours of prayer in the Circuit’s seven days of prayer. On the following Sunday evening at a circuit service the Vice-President preached on the theme of prayer in which she emphasised the need to listen to God, to be committed to prayer and to expect things to happen. Much had occurred during the week and the Vice-President said how moved and encouraged she was by the many stories of experiences through the week of prayer. Earlier, after a telephone interview with BBC Radio Jersey the Vice-President preached at St Martin’s to a congregation which included 30 young people who were nearing the end of a 24 hour sponsored fast for Aids victims. Over lunch to a large gathering at the Ambassadeur Hotel she shared stories on 'God at work in a changing world'. This theme was particularly appropriate on an island which is increasingly culturally diverse and where the Church is grappling with many issues brought about by its changing context. On the final day of her visit the Vice-President went to Stuart Court, which like the Methodist Home in Guernsey, is contemplating expansion. Earlier she had an interview with the Jersey Evening Post and shared in a fascinating discussion with some local Methodist women who reflected on the period of the wartime German occupation of Jersey and its consequences. The visit concluded at the Tapestry Museum where the occupation years are portrayed in Tapestries made by each Parish on the island and the viewing of a film that brought home the deprivations of the Islands especially in the last year of occupation until Liberation Day. The Vice-President's ability to make herself quickly at home wherever she went, her sense of humour, warm personality and her capacity to tell significant stories which both encouraged and challenged made her visit especially memorable and helpful. - David Coote My Life As A Centenier—Ian Jayes
In the month of October 2001 I took my oath before the Royal Court as Centenier of the Parish of St Lawrence. Life promised to be interesting, since, according to the oath, I was to conduct, at regular intervals, the Constable around all establishments of ill-repute and to eradicate the use of swear words on the Sabbath. Despite failing in these tasks the next three years did prove to be of considerable interest. Here, in note form (for the sake of brevity) are a few of the situations that I had to confront in the line of duty. Traffic Accidents Baby killed in car at Rue du Galet; collision at Rue du Galet; car demolished lamp standard in Victoria Ave. All traffic had to be diverted following road closures. TV interview. new traffic lights installed. Both major and minor accidents in Parish over the years some people maimed for life. Sudden Deaths 4 of these; most harrowing a suicide. Attended two inquests. Felt of most use when supporting family. Animals on Roads Cows need time and patience to prevent them causing accidents! Locating owners to come and deal with them. Bulls ditto but always stayed in Police car. Horses...usually found their own way home but sometimes required hours of coaxing. Sheep...a nightmare...have a collective mind of their own...frighteningly athletic. After two complaints about his sheep escaping one farmer had his flock of 5 slaughtered . Dogs...the bane of my life!.. an inordinate amount of time spent dealing with complaints of humans and dogs being bitten and of ducks, geese and chickens being killed. Funerals, weddings and special events Helped with traffic control and parking...felt I was of real use to the community. Battle of Flowers, Battle of Britain, Food Fairs, Motor Rallies, Road races etc Felt effort was appreciated by the majority of drivers. Disputes between neighbours. Most difficult part of job. Task of mediation almost impossible...entrenched views built up over years...seem to enjoy their quarrels and getting the Honorary Police involved. Storms. Not appreciated! Parish roads had to be kept clear of fallen trees. Often difficult to locate "owners". Much quicker to keep saw in car and do the job myself... Road checks. Motorists remarkably cheerful. Exercise useful in spotting no insurance, defective lights and occasionally dangerous vehicles and drunk drivers. States and Honorary Police. Sometimes joint campaigns. One Halloween checked retail outlets to ensure no eggs being sold to minors. In one shop the assistant admitted to selling 4 boxes to small boy insisting he was going to make a very big cake! Strong words with retailer. Parish Hall Enquiries To me the most important and most rewarding part of the job. Must have seen some 300 people in all and each one was polite and courteous. Studied backgrounds of all cases and gave out words of advice, warning, handed out fines and charged for Court appearance if considered necessary. Vast majority of cases kept out of the judicial system and never re-offended. Most gratifying with young people able to offer support with drug and alcohol problems. Received several letters of appreciation which gave me real encouragement . Magistrates Court Time consuming. Had to prepare cases meticulously to ensure magistrate could come to a fair decision. Annoying when case remanded which meant a return to Court a few weeks later. Motorists charged with driving whilst under the influence of alcohol had to come to Court as soon as possible. One weekend I charged 3 people on consecutive evenings and wheeled them all into Court the following Monday morning . Satisfaction Some satisfaction obtained from the unpredictable and varied nature of the demands.Most Tuesday evenings were quiet ... one week called out 4 times within 2 hours. Monday mornings often peaceful. One morning 11 phone calls before midday. Most satisfaction felt when I could be of real help ... e.g. shutting down a noisy building site one Saturday afternoon; finding an obscure law to move a vehicle parked outside a private residence and helping individuals with minor problems. It has been an honour and a privilege to have fulfilled this role but do we as a community wish to see it continue? If not I think island life would be the poorer. - Ian Jayes Mountain-top Experience
During January 2005 I attempted to climb Aconcagua on the Argentine / Chile border. Aconcagua is the highest mountain outside Asia, standing some 6,952m (22,841ft) high. The entry in my log for 22nd January reads like this: “For the first time in my life, I'm defeated. I look at my watch: 2 am on 22nd January 2005. I reach for the altimeter: a shade under 6000m. It's -16°C inside the tent. My heart rate is 120. All I've done for the last four hours is lie in my sleeping bag! I'm defeated. I've failed to reach my goal, the summit of Aconcagua. I settle down to sleep, disappointed at my failure.” Failure is something we all face in our lives. Failure is something that we often fear. And yet if I hadn't taken on the challenge of my climb I'd have missed so many opportunities. Despite my failure, I played my part in getting three of team to the summit. Despite my failure, I discovered more about myself mentally and physically. Despite my failure, I can close my eyes now and see the wonder of God's creation stretched out before me in the views from that mountain. Despite my failure, I've learned to appreciate again the sweet taste of tap water (much better than boiled snow with grit in it!). And the list goes on: I have new found friends; I have caught a glimpse of the life of a mountaineer; I have laughed with people with whom I cannot exchange a word. As God calls us ever forwards in the church, we must not become paralysed by the fear of failure. We must be prepared to allow God to stretch us in new ways as individuals and as a church. Just before his execution by the Nazis, Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote in his diary: "I have discovered, and am still discovering up to this very moment, that it is only by living completely in this world that one learns to believe. It is in such life that we throw ourselves utterly into the arms of God and participate in his sufferings. That is faith..” It is in living in the world that we find out so much more about ourselves, our relationships with each other and our relationship with God. And to live in the world we must embrace the challenges we are presented with. So where does that leave me with my mountain experience? After a period of reflection, perhaps my diary entry should read like this? “So I failed. Failed to reach the summit of Aconcagua. But in the process I've succeeded in many ways: the team reached the summit; I've found out what my body is capable of doing; I've stood on the mountain and seen the wonder of the world stretched out before me. I've had a glimpse of life as a mountaineer. Water tastes sweeter. Beds have become more comfortable. Friendships have become stronger. I settle down to sleep. Disappointed? Yes. But contented, that tomorrow God will stretch me once more in ways I cannot yet imagine.” As part of the expedition, I have been raising funds for Muscular Dystrophy Campaign. Muscular Dystrophy is a collection of muscle wasting conditions, some of which can be fatal in children. Donations can be made to me or at www.justgiving.com/martindelap2005. Some photographs from the expedition can be found at www.photobox.co.uk/album/1208185 - Martin Delap
The Science Of Motherhood A few months ago, when I was picking up the children at school, another mother I knew well rushed up to me, fuming with indignation. “Do you know what you and I are?” Emily demanded. Before I could answer (and I didn't really have one handy) she blurted out the reason for her question. It seemed she had just returned from renewing her driver's licence at the County Clerk's office. Asked by the woman recorder to state her occupation, Emily had hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself. "What I mean is" explained the recorder, "do you have a job, or are you just a ... ?" “Of course I have a job," snapped Emily. "I'm a mother." "We don't list 'mother' as an occupation, 'housewife' covers it," said the recorder. I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation, this time at our own Town Hall. The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised, efficient, and possessed of a high-sounding title like "Official Interrogator" or "Town Registrar". "What is your occupation?" she probed. What made me say it, I do not know. The words simply popped out. "I am a Research Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations." The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in mid-air, and looked up as though she had not heard right. I repeated the title slowly, emphasising the most significant words. Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was written in bold, black ink on the official questionnaire. "Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest, "just what you do in your field?" Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice, I heard myself reply, "I have a continuing programme of research (what mother doesn't) in the laboratory and in the field (normally I would have said indoors and outdoors). I'm working for my Masters (the whole darned family) and already have four credits (all daughters!). Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities (any mother care to disagree?) and I often work 14 hours a day (24 is more like it). But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are more of a satisfaction than just money". There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's voice as she completed the form, stood up and ushered me to the door. As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous new career, I was greeted by my lab assistants - ages 13,7 and 3. Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model (6 months) in the child-development programme, testing out a new vocal pattern. I felt triumphant! I had scored a beat in bureaucracy! And I had gone into the records as something more distinguished and indispensable to mankind than 'just another mother' - Anon (First printed in 'The R-factor') the magazine of the Relationships Foundation, sponsors of 'Keep time for children') Made in Heaven? Marriage seems to be under attack as never before. The UK has the highest divorce rate in Europe. Statistics tell us that in 1930 only 4,000 couples divorced. By 1981, 27,000 couples were divorcing each year. By 1989, it was 164,000 with 400 children a day being affected by divorce. What can be done to help couples who feel they have no hope? Having prepared couples for marriage over the last 15 years, I finally decided to publish a book on the principles behind a good marriage. Made in Heaven? Or “How to build a better Marriage!”. Marriages may be made in heaven, but they are certainly built on earth. Building a better marriage is what the book is about. Here is an extract: The Bible tells us ‘Love never fails’ (1 Cor. 13:8). However, when more than 1/3 of marriages end in divorce, you might think the Bible is wrong. Is it true that Love never fails? Why do things go wrong? The truth is not that love has failed, but we have failed to love. We haven't understood what love really is. We think it is an emotion, so when our feelings lose some of their passion, we decide we are no longer in love. The Bible uses three words to describe ‘True Love’. They are: Friendship, Covenant & Sex. If any one of these goes wrong our marriage will suffer. A couple must remain best friends. If they are always arguing, sex alone won't keep them together. There is no joy in winning an argument and losing your marriage. When friendship dies, it's no good arguing about who was responsible, we must keep our friendships alive. We must give time to being best friends. Remember friendship needs renewing. Gentlemen, when did you last romance your wife? When did you surprise her with flowers? I remember a story about one lonely wife taking her husband to the front window and drawing back net curtains. As they looked, the neighbour arrived home with a large bunch of flowers for his wife. “Why don't you ever do that?” she asked. In surprise the husband replied, “I hardly know the woman!” He had missed the point. The danger is that, as the marriage matures other demands encroach, and couples begin to take each other for granted. This must never happen! The Wife must the first priority for her Husband and the Husband first priority for his Wife. In this book we look at the keys to a better marriage, it has discussion points and helpful prayers for couples. True Love, How to build a better marriage, the Bible and Marriage, Sex and stories of hope are all covered. It is available from the Christian Book Shop in the Market, from other book shops or from the Manse, St Peter, Tel 01534 481479. The cost is £6.99. I pray it will enrich your marriage. - Rev D Kevin Jones
Book Reviews “Cat Confidential The book your Cat would want you to read.” by Vicky Halls “10 Spiritual Lessons you can learn from your Cat.” by Joanna Sandsmark I am an unashamed ailurophile (cat lover), so when I found that Father Christmas had left ‘Cat Confidential’ in my stocking I was fascinated. I admit that to some cats are not the pet/companion of choice and that a lot of this review will be irrelevant. However, I feel that everybody could benefit from looking at their life from an alternate view and essentially this is what these books aim to get their readers to consider. “Cat Confidential” is written by a cat counsellor, who has spent her working life helping cat owners with ‘troublesome pets’ to understand the root of the problems and how best to come to a compromise suitable for both cat and owner. It is a very readable book and gives a fascinating and often very simple solution to common problems that have made both the owner and cat's life a misery. I say a simple solution, because often when you consider events from the cat's point of view the answers are rather obvious, but in our concern and love for the animal we often forget to see it from their point of view. (This could often be said about difficulties with our fellow human beings too.) Vicky Halls gives many case studies and illustrations from her own experiences both as a counsellor and as a multiple cat owner. Her love for both the animals and their owners shines out from her writing and I would recommend any cat owner to read her book, even if they are apparently blessed with a trouble free relationship. She gives a breadth of insight into the cat world that explains to us mere humans why cats behave as they do. In conjunction with this book I came across another feline ‘self help’ book. However in 10 Spiritual Lessons the help is directed at the owners, rather than the cat. Starting with ‘Lesson 1: The Cat's Eye’, you are encouraged to use your cat as an example of how to get more out of your life. Lesson 1 uses a cat's fascination with its world, its use of all its senses and its habit of taking stock of that which it already knows to encourage us to revisit everything we take for granted; the familiarity of our environment, and the elements of it we ignore, our thoughts and ideas. How often do we review and challenge our long held beliefs and ideals? A cat will explore its territory on a daily basis: shouldn't we? With lessons on play, communication, taking a catnap and a few more feline attributes we are left with ‘Lesson 10: Learn to Purr’. All I can say is this is good advice. A cat's purr has been found to be therapeutic for bone growth, repair, pain relief, swelling reduction, wound healing, muscle growth, repair, and mobility of joints; in short it helps cats to maintain their remarkable healing ability. Their purring also has been noted to have a beneficial effect on their owners too. Whilst we frail humans are unable to purr, we can learn to laugh. Laughter is often considered the best medicine. Those of us with a positive outlook on life seem to heal quicker, suffer less physical pain and mental anguish. A cat will purr at a touch, maybe we should learn from this and find simple joy in the world around as often as we can. Love them or hate them, maybe we could learn a few things from our feline friends? - Helen Toole
24/7 Prayer—The Original Vision Where did 24/7 Prayer come from? Each year, in a different venue, the Methodist Youth Conference is held. Two years ago it was held in Bolton. There a resolution about 24/7 prayer was passed by the Youth Conference, and later it was passed by the Methodist Conference. What is 24/7 Prayer? The resolution was put forward as people thought that more prayer was needed in and around the Methodist churches in Great Britain. There was no set theme specified, but it was felt that faith would grow stronger with more prayer bringing us closer to God. Also, prayer can achieve such great feats when people unite, so one of the feelings behind the resolution was to help others by praying for and with them. In January, a good example of what to pray about was the Tsunami disaster. What is the point of 24/7 prayer? As well as bringing the churches of the island together, a week of prayer will strengthen and build up so many different people's faith, and will be a very good way to witness to non-Christians. This is a big step forward for all kinds of Christians, as it should unite and bring together the whole island to pray for others. - Bethany Jones From the Superintendent Dear Friend “Pray Without Ceasing” is the title of the Methodist connexional year of prayer. When I was speaking with John Upholf on BBC Radio Jersey he said that the Jersey Circuit 24/7 week of continuous prayer was a bit of a mouthful. Maybe the connexion has got this sorted! It was for us a great week, the spin off of which will become apparent as the months roll by. To listen at the concluding service to the testimonies of those who shared in the week and to see in each of our nine participating churches some very imaginative ways of prayer was very encouraging, for I believe an openness to God will give us confidence and lift us out of any demoralisation we feel about our church state of health. However the week of prayer was not about the survival of the Methodist Church but about sharing in God’s mission for the world. That's why it was so important to include Mike Wavell and Jersey's response to the Tsunami and Charlotte Hunter on issues of trade justice and ‘Making poverty history' in the concluding service. A church and circuit shaped for mission is not solely about numbers of members or churches or about finance. It's something much deeper than that. If we focus on what God wants for us and the world then buildings and finance, which admittedly do have an important role to play, will not dominate the agenda. The first priority will be to love God with all our heart and mind and soul and strength and our neighbour as ourselves. People will know we are Christians not because we go to church or own allegiance to a place of worship but by our love and our desire to make the world in which we live a better place. Of course we do not have as Christians a monopoly of goodness. The world around us is full of good people. Nevertheless we ought to show in our life and behaviour a quality of life that reflects the life of Jesus who came that all may have life and life in all its fullness. If through a life of prayer without ceasing God's love fills our hearts and then flows through us both transforming us and the world around us, it will be time well spent. With best wishes - David Coote P.S. The Channel Island District takes its turn in the District Rota for the year of prayer between November 4th and 18th, 2005.
24/7 Prayer-What happened .... at Bethlehem Our slot was on the first day, Sunday 13th February which commenced with a Circuit Service led by Rev. David Coote, with music by Cornerstone. Although the prayer vigil was based at Bethlehem, we were partnered with Bethesda so therefore, it was decided that the Bethesda congregation would be responsible for the even hours and Bethlehem the odd hours – split into half hour slots. This worked really well, and the whole rota was filled with no trouble at all. We arranged for 2 big Prayer Walls to go up with lots of paper, coloured pens so that people could write anything down they felt God was telling them, and also for individual prayers for any needs or concern or thanks. We also provided a CD Player with appropriate quiet music in case anyone felt the need for any music during their session. - Jean Schooling 24/7 Prayer-What happened .... at Georgetown We had a central focus in the shape of a cross, with flowers and cards along each arm. Some found it helpful to reflect on the signs of new life and others to choose pictures to prompt their meditation. Four different tables offered different stimuli to pray. There were readings with books such as ‘Soul Feast’; a new book of meditations by Michaela Youngson - ‘Making the Colours Sing’; an opportunity to make a prayer necklace or a St Brigid's cross (which had prayer suggestions as each round is completed); reflections on trade justice issues; and at times a background of music from CDs. A rota of people covered the 24 hours and some who were initially rather sceptical found the experience refreshing. It was lovely to receive friends from neighbouring Catholic and Community churches as well as several people over lunchtime who popped in after eating a Christian Aid lunch in the hall. The most unusual arrival must have been a member who said, 'I told you I'd come when I got up'; we just hadn't expected him to get up quite so early - 4.00 a.m. Quite a few of those who came were keen to have another 24/7 soon, so Georgetown is looking forward to praying without ceasing: we hope that Michaela Youngson will be here in person next time! - Caroline Homan
24/7 Prayer-What happened .... at Ebenezer Ebenezer decided that its theme for the week would be ‘He has the whole world in His hands’.This was displayed at the front of the church. We arranged a number of displays around the Church to support this message which also formed the basis of our service on the following Sunday. We had displays about the Environment, the Community, Fairtrade and natural disasters such as the tsunami. These were intended as a ‘focus’ for prayers but there was also a Prayer Wall on which people could write and display their own (anonymous) prayers; this was well supported. We were also wonderfully supported by the senior class at Trinity School who had written their own prayers on many subjects. These demonstrated the concern felt by these young people about the world in which we live. The Trinity Women’s Institute also joined us in prayer with a specially written and thought provoking ‘Women’s Prayer’ Our 24-hour period of prayer was intended to be informal and flexible according to people's preferences, but we started with a short service led by Rev. David Coote. There were short periods of more formal prayer led by June Le Rossignol at midnight and dawn the following day and again at the close of our session. Throughout we had a reflective background of organ music or CD records which were appreciated by those attending. We were gratified by the number of people from the church, the circuit and the community who attended our 24-hour session and we thank all those who helped to prepare the displays in the church. - John Green 24/7 Prayer - What Happened ... at Samares I reacted impulsively when David Coote brought up the suggestion that we should take up the challenge as a Circuit. Of course we’ll do it at Samares! Easy words which were to test my faith as the February week loomed. Filling the rota seemed challenging enough with a small church although we were to discover that some who signed for an hour actually turned up for more. Nevertheless all the hours were taken and the opening service around a table of candles awaiting THE candle from Bethlehem gave a sense of expectancy and hope. Kevin Jones arrived on his motor bike with the impressive candle he had made for the occasion and stayed to share worship and prayer. And so the prayer continued into the night when the Presence of the Lord was definitely there carrying through into the morning hours. People remarked on the sense of peace in the hall where the prayer wall, the prayer map, the leaflets, booklets, Bible and song books, the place for creativity in making things or drawing or painting all were laid out in a warm welcoming atmosphere. We did have visitors, which was encouraging and some generously volunteered on the rota for much more than expected. It perhaps was a case of the more you put in, the more you found the blessing. The Sunday which completed the 24/7 week was the day when Father Martin Poolton, Rector of St Peter had been invited as our guest preacher. He spoke openly of his own experiences of God at work in prayer and provided us with encouragement and homework. At the close of the service, instead of people beginning to get up for coffee and chat, the very reverse took place as everyone stayed in their seats, without moving, aware that we were remaining in the presence of God. This has not happened at Samares for many months, and perhaps was a reminder for us that the Lord has much in store. - Henry Le Ruez 24/7 Prayer-What happened at St. Helier Methodist Centre It may be no surprise to many of you that I am more of a 'Martha' than a 'Mary'. That being said, I prefer Iona & Taize (reflective/meditative) worship to ‘guitars and choruses' (I'm not very rhythmical or perhaps it's a necessary contrast to a busy lifestyle). For 24/7, I signed up to share in a two hour slot at SHMC early on Thursday morning but decided to visit some of the other churches during the preceding days. It was an experience. The ease with which the thoughts were focussed in each church where prayer had been in progress for 12 hours or more surprised me. It was moving, nourishing, humbling, uplifting. When I arrived at SHMC at 6.40 am on Thursday the spiritual atmosphere in the youth room, where there had been prayer during the night hours, was almost tangible and I was concerned that in transferring the prayer stations up to the church some of that might be lost. I was wrong! What a very special time those two hours were. Time to reflect, to listen, to talk to God, to question and no distractions. I find it quite difficult to express what I made of it all -it is more a 'feeling' than coherent thoughts! But what I can say is that it was so good to take part in something that I had no responsibility for organising; it was very enabling. I will most certainly be ready to join in another such time of prayer and would encourage anyone to try it. You do not have to be ‘good' at prayer, just willing to pray. If you didn't come this time do come next, you may be surprised. - Di Toole
Those of us that took part in the 24/7 prayer vigil will each have had different personal experiences. For me it was the opportunity to be quiet for an hour and to focus my mind. I found the various areas around the church helpful in guiding my thoughts, and the prayer booklet, in a similar way, highlighted important matters which need the healing power of prayer. However, the most memorable thing for me in my two hours was the time I spent reading a number of the psalms and also many of the great hymns from 'Hymns and Psalms'. I was struck more than ever before by the confidence of the writers in God triumphing over evil. Their joy in their knowledge of God's presence and the comfort they have that their God will guide them through the troubles and problems of life. The hour was also an invaluable opportunity to read many of the great hymns. I chose hymns from different periods and marvelled at how great Christian truths are expressed in such an elegant poetic way. It is probable that when singing some of these hymns we miss the depths of meaning as we are swept along by the tune. I would recommend anyone to perform this exercise. You will be surprised and inspired by the insight that the writers had of the Christian life and its meaning for us. It was a joy. - Roy Picot
24/7 Prayer-What happened .... at St. Martin When approaching people to pray, some expressed concern about filling the hour with continuous prayer, but were pleasantly surprised at how quickly the time actually passed. Some were appreciative of the hour set aside in silence and felt they had benefited greatly from the experience. I don’t think it would be a difficult task to find people willing to volunteer if this was repeated in the future. - Di Le Maistre
24/7 Prayer-What happened .... at Philadelphie This outline gives an idea of the range of activities undertaken at Philadelphie in their 24 hours 6.30pm. Friday evening. House group leads prayer for 24 / 7 and the church. 7pm Hymns, choruses and prayers. 8pm Prayers in French and Jersey French. 9pm Quiet and reflective prayer. 10pm Prayers for the world. 11pm Prayers for Mustard Seed. 12 midnight to 7am Quiet and reflective prayer. 7am Morning prayer. 8am Prayer for people of Jersey and those in authority. 9am Readings from Psalms 1 -72. 10am Prayer for parish of St. Peter led by Rev. Martin Poolton 10.30am Devotional readings from Daily Bread. 11.30am Prayers for parish of St. Ouen led by Rev. John Harkin 12pm Readings from Psalms 73 -106. 1pm Prayers for Christian Aid, then prayers for families and Young people. 2pm Prayers for Open Book and Schools, then Sunday School follow-up their prayer walk which began at 1.30 at La Braye. 3pm Prayers for Health and Wholeness and Prayer requests. 4pm Readings from Psalms 107-end. 5pm Hymns/Choruses and prayer. 6pm Closing prayers & thanksgiving led by Rev.Kevin Jones Full details were available on a printed leaflet. “Draw close to God, and God will draw close to you” James 4 v. 8a Exactly a month has passed since we, at Philadelphie, nervously received the candle of commitment and began our 24 hours of prayer. Little did we know what an amazing blessing it was to be on all who took part, the Church and the wider world. We had set up a 24/7 prayer clock dividing our time into half-hour and hour sessions in which we invited people, from all walks of life, to pray on a theme (see below) or they could spend time in quiet, reflective prayer. The children too got involved and returning from a Prayer Walk along the beach (it was freezing!), they too offered up their prayers with great enthusiasm! In all some 40 people wholeheartedly agreed to lead these sessions and offer their support. Our grateful thanks goes to each and every one of them. Indeed, had it not been for their commitment, God’s work may well have been hindered. As it was He moved in the most powerful way. Where we had scheduled one or two people to lead, He often sent many more to walk alongside them. Some of the ‘one man’ night-time vigils became small prayer groups of up to five or six as those participating just could not bear to leave after their stint, resulting in many staying hour after hour. The Holy Spirit moved with such awesome presence it was a truly amazing experience. By the time our Closing Prayers and short service of Thanksgiving took place there were few spaces to be found in the pews. During the worship Rose Helie gave thanks to God for answering a prayer of need for Mustard Seed, which she had offered up only hours before; and the following morning Philadelphie was blessed with a message of such encouragement and hope that hearts were set ablaze! Nobody wanted it to end and, of course, it hasn’t ! Praise the Lord for His almighty hand on our lives! - Katie Norman
Prayers at Sion, after the Tsunami, for South-East Asia. The church was opened for the morning and had lit candles and a painted silk from Indonesia. Caroline Homan supplied some prayers for those members who felt they needed spiritual help. Caroline was asked if the children and parents from the Nursery could be included in the three minute silence. She was in agreement and met us just before midday to help with the children. The staff at the nursery were concerned that the children might disrupt the silence so we explained to them why we were all there and placed a 'three minute' sand timer between the candles. We were amazed how quiet the children were during those three minutes. Then Caroline said a short prayer for the little ones. All too often we are concerned that children will disrupt events. That day I remembered the words from the Bible " Suffer the little children to come unto me " - Liz Blampied, Nursery Supervisor and Church Steward
Greetings from Alderney
I was born in Nottingham in the 1950’s and began worshipping with my Grandparents from an early age at their local Methodist Chapel not too far from the city centre. Here I was introduced to Sunday Worship, Church Flowers, Cleaning but most importantly the love that God has for everybody. By the time I had finished my education the Chapel had closed and I began to attend the Albert Hall Mission in the city centre. Here I had the opportunity to learn more, explore my faith, be involved with other young people and hear some great preachers. Committing my life to Christ in the late 1960's I embarked on becoming a Local Preacher, reaching ‘Full Plan' in 1972, juggling college work with preachers studies. No ‘Faith and Worship Course' in those days and many hours travelling to neighbouring circuits to preach, squashed into other people's cars. For the years in between then and arriving on Alderney I have been very much involved with all aspects of Church life and the wider community ranging from Junior Church, Cub Scouts, Women's Fellowship to house and prayer groups, pastoral visiting, drop-in coffee mornings as well as serving on a variety of Church and Circuit committees and attending Synods. Being appointed Lay Worker here is a culmination of my Christian Ministry bringing together everything I have learnt and enjoyed over the years - and where better to serve God? The fellowship here has changed over the years, but remains loyal. During the last eighteen months some of the time has been involved with strengthening the congregation, making links with the Anglican Church following the signing of the covenant and getting to know the people of the Island. Our Manse Fellowship Group, which could only commence after my furniture had arrived, meets twice a month and has looked at the major Christian Festivals, John's gospel and is currently studying Acts of the Apostles. Friday Coffee Mornings are much appreciated by locals as well as visitors. Once a month cakes and crafts are sold and the home-made Lemon Curd is very popular. Sunday Lunches (not every week!) have provided us with much needed income to aid the cost of repairing our windows. Over the coming months plans are being drawn up to renovate the roof, install new heating and hot water system and look into the possibility of having access from the Church directly into the hall below. This will be followed by an extensive re-decoration programme. Greetings are sent from us all here on Alderney. - Irene Day Dodolings Great news for families worshipping on Sundays! Dodolings is back! .... On Saturdays too! The Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust have been holding workshops for children to find out more about the animals at the zoo, but only on a Sunday morning. This was a great shame for families wishing for their children to participate but also be part of their family worship. Great news for 2005 - due to public feedback, from January the zoo have been offering Saturday morning workshops. These ‘Dodolings’ work- shops are aimed at 3 - 6 year olds and places need to be booked in advance. To find out more, call the Conservation Education Department 860042 - Bev Waller Thought to Ponder... I I am one, but I am only one. I cannot do everything; but I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do. - Edward Everett Hale
Daniel Jones in Toronto Kevin Jones went with Daniel to Toronto in March. He will begin the Worship module at the beginning of April; this will last until the end of June. He has planned to go to Flint, Michigan, to meet up with friends and Mary Spencer for a few weeks. He will be back with us mid-July. After a few days with Kevin, Daniel was ‘slightly nervous’ on registration day, Sunday March 6th. He writes: “God is being really awesome for me here. I wish we could all feel this .We've been doing forgiveness. It's really cool to know that you are forgiven. I have a cool set of room mates and there are quite a lot of Brits here so when we went to the mall it was like ex-pat heaven. .... Those guys are really good, in fact I haven't met anyone I don't like. Mark Virkler was really cool in the first two days. He taught on Communion with God and journaling etc. I love journaling. It's so much fun. I never knew the power of simply confessing your sin to someone who is "a righteous man" and then them speaking forgiveness over you. Awesome!” - Kevin & Daniel Jones
Local News—St. Ouen Methodist Church Liberation Thanksgiving Service Our united Liberation Service will be held in the chapel on May 8th at 10.30 a.m. The address will be given by Mrs. Nan Cooper (Nan Le Ruez the author of the Jersey Occupation Diary). The Connétable will read a lesson. Continuing our celebrations for 195 years of witness in the Parish and to tie in with the 60th anniversary of the Liberation, we are holding a ‘Flowers for Freedom’ event on the 15th, 16th and 17th July. Full details will be published in the next issue - Valerie Remon 741689
Worship Leaders and Preachers’ Discernment Day This was held at Georgetown on Saturday, March 12th and attended by about 15 people. They heard the testimony of Sue Le Riche and John Perkins and Rev. Kevin Jones spoke on discerning a call. All had a chance to see the training materials that are in use and speak with those who had gone through the courses.
Fast-Food, Fast, Food! At lunchtime on Sat. 19th Feb, the young people of St. Martin and SHMC enjoyed a pizza together in town before going to the cinema. It was the last meal they were to have for 24 hours; thereafter they had only water to drink. During the evening and night, spent in the hall at St.Martin’s, they played games and listened to music to distract their thoughts from food. Sleep was in short supply too. They attended morning worship at St. Martin’s on Sunday and took part in the service. The hardest part was the smell of their lunch being cooked in the hall wafting through into the church! The young people were not alone in their fast ... Liz Hunter and Malcolm Salmon shared the experience (a de-tox, not a fast, according to Liz) with them. The sponsor money is going to World Vision, specifically for AIDs orphans in Africa. 6 youngsters from SHMC and about 20 from St Martin’s took part. - from SHMC Magazine Methodist Homes In Jersey we have two very good homes with Stuart Court celebrating 25 years and La Corderie 30 years this year. It is of course significant that Stuart Court are looking at expansion of its work into the newly acquired adjacent property. These are important and exciting pieces of practical action and I would commend them, the staff, residents and the management group which is always looking at ways of improvement. I commend also Chris White and Kevin Jones who have a chaplaincy role - David Coote. Smile! Two nuns were driving through the countryside when they ran out of fuel. They walked to a nearby farmhouse to ask for help and the kindly farmer said that they could siphon some of the fuel from his tractor. However they couldn't find anything in which to carry the fuel until the farmer produced a battered old chamber pot. The nuns filled the pot with fuel, walked back to the car and began pouring it in. A passing motorist, hardly believing what he saw, stopped and said, “I don't agree with your religion, but I admire your faith” !! - from SHMC magazine
Jersey - Fairtrade Island ... Now
On Thursday, Feb. 24th Simeon Greene
presented Senator Jean Le Maistre with a certificate marking the
award of Fairtrade Island status to Jersey on Feb. 18th by the Fairtrade
Foundation. There are now 100 areas with this status, ranging from cities to
towns to London boroughs to 2 islands: Fair Isle (population less than 100) The Fairtrade mark began in 1994 and dedicated people in the churches were soon buying the limited range of products available from Traidcraft, the Oxfam shop or the Co-op. The range of Fairtrade goods sold grew year on year, boosted by Fairtrade Fortnight each March. In October 2003, a Fairtrade Island group was formed to try to make Jersey a Fairtrade Island in two years and a launch was held at Aquila Community Centre. In March 2004, a proposition supporting the move was approved in the States by 46 votes to 2. More shops were encouraged to stock Fairtrade products including Checkers and a record kept of churches, schools and firms who were committed to Fairtrade. By January 2005, the group felt that we had sufficient numbers committed in proportion to the Jersey population of 87,000 to meet the criteria and we sent in our application. Endorsement came within a month and it coincided with the visit of Simeon, sales director of Windwards Bananas. He spoke of the benefits of Fairtrade bananas for the people of his home island of St. Vincent at open meetings and to a number of school groups. So the certificate was handed over during the meeting at St. Helier Methodist Centre. This is the end of the beginning. A growing number of people appreciate that the way primary products such as coffee, tea, sugar, cocoa are sold on the world market leaving the farmers in poverty is unjust. They are prepared to choose products with the Fairtrade logo even if it costs a little more. Next steps In April, when our chairman Dave Ellis returns to Jersey, we would like to increase membership of the Fairtrade Island group. Step forward if interested. A much bigger issue is Trade Justice. Some Lent Groups have followed a course written by Daniel Wimberley called ‘Change the rules' which has informed and inspired people to challenge the unjust way in which world trade is currently organised. On Sunday April 10th, a special service launches the Global Week of Action for Trade Justice. It should be celebrated in every church in Jersey and will be followed up by activities each day of the following week. This is part of the “Make Poverty History” campaign which is trying to use Britain's leadership of the G8 in 2005 as a catalyst for a decisive change in the way we care for people in developing countries. Wear a white band. Send a postcard. Back the 3 demands:- trade justice, drop the debt and more and better aid. It is not charity, it is justice and what the Lord requires of us! - Ed Le Quesne
A number of churches used the Global Week of Action service for Trade Justice on Sunday April 10th. And will be committed to other activities during this year.
Georgetown Neighbourhood Club
The first meeting of the Neighbourhood Club took place on Wednesday April 9th 1975. For some time, the Club’s founder, Mrs. Doreen Perchard, had felt that the Church at Georgetown could reach out to the immediate neighbourhood by offering an alternative to the already well established Women's Fellowship meeting which took place fortnightly. Rev. Geoffrey Nowell was the Minister at Georgetown at that time. Ten ladies attended the first meeting. The Club was delighted that we were able to celebrate the 100th birthday of one of the founder members, Mrs. Ruby Tanguy on 9th March 2005 at a joint Women's Network and Neighbourhood Club party. We were pleased to welcome the Governor Sir John Cheshire and Lady Cheshire and the Constable of St. Saviour, Mr. Philip Ozouf. Rev. David Coote and his wife were also present. Mrs. Caroline Homan welcomed the official guests. We were sorry that a funeral prevented our Minister, Rev. Chris. White from attending. The Club grew steadily and apart from the meetings at Georgetown, there were outings arranged in the summer and visits to the theatre in the colder months. Transport was provided by a willing band of helpers who, over the years, have given freely of their time catering for the needs of members at the teas and lunches held at Georgetown, and several times a year we call on a group of talented people who are always willing to come and entertain the ladies. Over the years we have held many fund raising events, jumble sales, table top sales and a regular bring and buy stall for Club and Church funds and also for charity. Members have made blankets and vests for Oxfam, cut stamps for charity, and filled shoe boxes for Romania. We were able to purchase a mini bus with a generous donation from a charitable trust, and, when this had to be replaced another trust stepped in to foot the bill. We now have a third bus. A lunch is being arranged to celebrate the Club's 30th Anniversary when Mrs. Doreen Perchard and two of the original helpers Mrs. Betty Nutter, our treasurer, and Mrs. Maureen Bougourd will look back over the last 30 years when the price of a ticket for the Easter Show ‘Guys and Dolls' in 1976 was 60p and a tea of two scones, jam , cream and cakes cost 40p!!
- Nance Picot
Governor’s wife: “How do you feel, Ruby?” Mrs. T : “With my fingers!” Lay Workers’ Conference— March 2005 The Channel Islands District was well represented this year with Irene Day from Alderney, Roger Browning from Sark, and June Le Rossignol and Pat Tourtel from Jersey. We were given a special cheer at the Welcome. The theme for the Conference was ‘How to unwind with God, work with others, learn new skills. As usual the Worship was inspiring and the Bible Study sessions thought- provoking and meaningful. We spent time considering our spiritual journey thus far, we listened to the President and Vice President speak about collaborative ministry. We had plenary sessions and workshops where there was a choice of 5/6 subjects and smaller listening groups. One new skill to which we were introduced was Godly Play, originally designed for use with children, but which has proved powerful in telling the story of parables to various groups. In a full programme there was time to talk in the coffee breaks, walk in the grounds or peruse the book shop. We even had time to enjoy some Scottish dancing. The Conference concluded with a Communion Service with opportunity for healing which provided a fitting climax to a most rewarding and fulfilling time together. - Pat Tourtel
I went to the Lay Worker's Conference to learn from others about their work. I was also looking for a few answers myself as to what constituted ‘A Lay Worker'. There were over 80 delegates and I soon discovered that being a ‘Lay Worker' covered almost everything. There was not one person amongst the 80 whose job was anything like mine so, in that respect I was not able to learn how to improve my work. I did however learn a lot about myself, by listening to others about their frustrations of not being appreciated enough or being ‘;put-upon' too much. I saw as well, a powerful graciousness in some completely unassuming people and I picked up some ideas about leading worship. One very moving service was led by Gloria Passmore. It was a mixture of wonderful singing, joy and peace, and quiet. At the close of the service we sang the ‘Peace' as we moved around amongst the group. The singing of the blessing seemed, to me, to say so much more. It was done so quietly and thoughtfully and was a perfect ending to the service. We had two excellent Bible studies on ‘The calming of the storm' and She touched his garment'. Watch out for sermons on those! I attended three workshops on Christian Festivals; Puppet Ministry; and ‘Where are the youth in the Church?' I was a little disappointed with the outcome of some of the workshops but they did make me think, so perhaps this was good. The results of the week were not as expected but I did learn to unload some of the things I had been carrying for a while. I came away refreshed; at peace with myself; and even more sure of my calling to be a Pastoral Lay Worker. - June Le Rossignol
March Circuit Meeting at Ebenezer David Coote opened the meeting with comments on driving forces (see p.1) He confirmed that evening worship should be in fixed locations without labels from September and hoped the churches would aim to reach out to others. There was a plea for occasional Communion services in the evenings for the benefit of Sunday school staff and people working morning shifts. Chris White reported briefly on a joyful three hour service he had experienced in the Methodist Church of Santiago in Cuba. It included his sermon that was translated sentence by sentence into Spanish. Communicare are beginning services at 12 midday on Tuesdays, a time when there are many people in the Centre. Philadelphie reported an exciting year from Walk Jersey, to the Purpose driven church and recently the 24/7 day of prayer. Chris Haines and Caroline Homan were supported as candidates for the presbyteral ministry by overwhelming majorities. Both spoke confidently and clearly of their call to the work. We will print an outline in our next issue. By then they will know if they have been accepted. It was agreed to set the Local Allowance for 2005 / 06 at £2780, 16% of basic stipend, and to increase it annually by the cost of living index. The current financial year is likely to have a surplus of £20,000 mainly because there was only one member of staff moving and we have lost Derrick Mellor. Next year we should have a deficit of nearly £10,000 so though assessments will be the same next year they are likely to rise in the following year. Stephen Higginson was thanked for his 6 years service as Circuit Steward. No replacement has yet been put forward. There was some debate over the proposal to make the Circuit Leadership team consist of just circuit stewards and staff. It was pointed out that the leadership team could invite others to join them for particular issues and the leadership team decisions would always be subject to approval by the Circuit meeting. David Coote said he was disappointed to feel there was a lack of trust in the circuit. He saw a task of the leadership team as monitoring the ‘Shaped for mission' process. Rev. Billy Slatter was confirmed as minister for the East, in charge of St. Martin, Eden and Ebenezer. This will free David Coote for his District and Connexional duties. Chris White will end his hospital chaplaincy in December and will take responsibility for Gorey and La Rocque in addition to Georgetown and Sion. Sue Le Riche will continue with pastoral work at Gorey and La Rocque. It was agreed to sell the manse at La Rocque and buy a property with 2 reception rooms somewhere in the north of the island. Jonathan Voak spoke of the problems identified with the St. Aubin buildings and the circuit agreed to allow essential building repairs (estimated at £230,000 by engineers Hartigans) to proceed as soon as the St. Aubin leadership team had approved the project on 14th March. St. Aubin already have some £70,000 in hand and won't be asking for funding from the Circuit advance fund. A big project agreed near the end of a long, but positive meeting. - Ed Le Quesne
St Aubin Repairs to the Church and Hall Many readers will already know about the launch of a fund-raising appeal to deal with essential repairs that are urgently needed to both St Aubin’s Church and Church Hall. For some years we have known about problems with the structure of the Church Hall but have had difficulties in determining a sensible way of dealing with them. The problems faced by St Aubin were compounded in the Spring of 2004 when dry rot was discovered in the Church building which necessitated the immediate closure of the gallery. The primary cause was water penetration through the walls and where the roof butts up against the wall at the gable end. Evidence of this had been hidden for years. The investigating engineers have produced a schedule of work to put right the problems with the Church and Hall and an engineer and quantity surveyor have produced a cost estimate of £230,000. At its meeting in January the Church Council decided that it would in principle go ahead with the project, to launch a fund-raising appeal and determine at its March meeting if there was enough support to go forward to the tender stage. The response to the appeal letter surpassed expectations and the Church Council felt confident enough at its meeting on 14th March to instruct the engineer and quantity surveyor to prepare the documents leading to tender stage. The excellent response at this early stage in the appeal and the possibility that further funds might be forthcoming from individuals, grant applications and fund-raising activities, has led the Church Council to feel that it should be prepared to carry out much needed and long overdue improvements to the interior of the Hall. However the primary objective is to get the building sound and watertight and to ensure that no further deterioration takes place. No approach for funds has been made to the Circuit for use of advance funds because the Circuit policy for use of advance funds does not permit the use of money for building work. We are however immensely grateful to one church in the Circuit who hearing of our plight has contributed to the appeal. Currently money pledged or in hand exceeds over £170,000. Our conviction and that of many others, is that it would be tragic if St Aubin closed as a place of worship. It would be a loss not only to the Methodist Church but also to the whole life of the Christian Church in the Island. For this reason, and believing that God still has work for us to do, we have set out on the path of ensuring that the buildings are in good shape for future work and mission. - Jonathan Voak
Reception Staff Wanted Highlands Hotel requires full or part-time Reception staff during the summer season to meet the needs of its guests. The hotel accommodates up to 100 guests many of whom come to hear the international team of Bible Speakers. Interested? - please contact Alan Irving at the Hotel at Corbiere or telephone 744288.
Software For Sale As a result of the Circuit Office PC having its software upgraded we have a copy of Microsoft Office 2000 Small Business Edition for sale to the highest bidder by 1 May 2005. See www.microsoft.com for details of this package if you have any questions. Bids to Stephen Higginson, Bylings, Fauvic, Grouville, JE3 9BQ in an envelope marked ‘OfficeSBE’ please..
Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny. - Frank Outlaw from Grapevine, the magazine of Christchurch Methodist, Worcester Park We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give. - Winston Churchill
Those who try to do something and fail are infinitely better than those who try to do nothing and succeed. - Richard Bird Computer problems meant a delay in the publication of this issue. The next edition is due out early in July. Please send items to Ed(itor), 16, Millais Park, St. Helier JE2 4RU by June 20th or by e-mail to edleq@jerseymail.co.uk.
|
