Changing Churches
St. Aubin, under wraps for a while
Three Churches Merger
On the evening of June 13th 2005 the Church Hall at Ebenezer was full to
capacity. Common concerns and hopes for the future were shared and out of it
came the possibility of a merger for three churches.
Nine months later, at the March 2006 Circuit meeting, a report was presented,
the culmination of months of discussion, listening, research and prayers.
Ebenezer has been chosen as the site to merge following visits to all three
churches (Sion, Eden and Ebenezer) The first visit was by the nine
representatives of the three churches who took a list of the criteria that would
shape their thinking. The second visit was the independent group of three people
who didn¹t worship at any of the three churches. There was always the risk that
these two groups visiting separately would arrive at different conclusions, but
it didn¹t happen.
This spring, Eden and Sion took a painful decision to merge at the Ebenezer
site. This means that in the near future will come a time to leave buildings
which have been cherished over a lifetime. For several months the churches have
shared in
Ebenezer, base for a new church
morning worship together and will do so once every month on the summer plan. In
this way we hope that new friendships will be formed and in time a united
congregation made real.
Ebenezer Church Council has agreed to adopt a new name for the church and to
have a new interior replacing the existing one. Access for the disabled was top
of the criteria list and also a car park capable of holding 40-60 cars. This
will involve careful planning and professional advice. The end result will be a
Methodist Church in Trinity which is confident in the 21st century and will
become an attractive place to visit midweek and on Sundays. Using the gifts and
experience from three Churches will help provide a base from which to create a
stable and yet energetic church offering relevant worship with excellent
facilities.
May we express thanks to all the church representatives and to the independent
group who gave freely of their time to help shape our thinking. This showed the
circuit at its best! Please pray for the three churches as they face the hurdles
they will encounter in the coming months. Pray especially for those who will
make the greatest sacrifice as they journey on in their faith. Revd Chris White
and Revd Billy Slatter
Dear All
An Extraordinary God
We live in exciting and extraordinary times for the Church. Here in Jersey,
stimulated perhaps in some degree by the Shaped for Mission report, many of our
churches have looked at new ways of doing things and sought through prayer to be
open to new possibilities. The same can be said across the Connexion. The
Methodist church still has a long way to go in ridding itself of cumbersome
structures but reports of the Church’s demise are much exaggerated!
Tom Stuckey, current President of Conference is not unhappy to call himself
crazy. There will certainly be those who think that Tom’s assertion that we are
on the edge of Pentecost is crazy. Tom sees evidence of new life both in his
travels abroad and in the British Isles. He sees some of the painful changes
such as the closing of small chapels often in the UK unlike Jersey with
memberships of less than ten and the imaginative merging of churches as evidence
of God’s people responding to the movement of the Spirit. And many churches are
growing.
There is a sense in which we are always on the edge of Pentecost when God’s
people open themselves up to God. The 24/7 days of prayer in our churches here
in Jersey were more than just symbolic of this attitude of mind and heart. I am
immensely grateful for the members of staff, lay workers and lay people, all of
whom make up the church who are longing for our churches to be seen to be a
people who bring a difference to the world about us.
A Times Leader on the 24th December 2005 said; ‘Faith is still central to
British life. And indeed for Christians there is good news. Attendance at church
has begun to rise again. Clergy have discovered new ways to inspire, new venues
in which to worship, new examples to prove the durability of faith’.
We can, I suppose, choose to wallow in despair for sometimes being a part of the
church just seems like so much hard work although we do make it more difficult
than we need at times! Of course faithfulness and ‘stickability’ are part of
what it means to be a disciple of Jesus and the valleys of despond come and go
but living by faith always puts us on the edge of new discovery.
Nothing remains static. In the next few years more of our churches around the
circuit will embrace the new technology for worship and training to use it will
be top of the agenda. We will I hope seek those new expressions of being church
which will connect with people for whom church as we know it is a foreign land.
These ventures should not trouble us even though for those of us in leadership
keeping up with a rapidly changing world is quite exhausting. It’s all part of
the exciting business of a being a Christian in extraordinary times with an
extraordinary God who calls us in this generation to life giving, Christ filled
faith.
Shalom
David
A word from the URC
Patrick and Gillian McManus
As the Minister of the United Reformed Church in Jersey, I am glad to have the
opportunity to contribute to this edition of the ‘Jersey Methodist’. There are
several good reasons for this: the first is that twenty seven years ago, I
married into a strongly Methodist family, and soon got to know Hymns and Psalms
as well as our own URC hymnbook! The second reason is that my last pastorate was
a United Reformed / Methodist Church in Chichester, and there I was privileged
to host a visit from the Revd Ian White, from the Channel Islands, when he was
President of Conference. It’s a small world! The last reason, however, is
probably the most important: our two denominations have a very clear desire to
work with each other in local ecumenical partnerships. The United Reformed
Church has only 1655 churches, but over a sixth of these (about 240) are in
joint situations with our Methodist friends; there are 146 Methodist Ministers
in Pastoral Charge of United Reformed churches, and a smaller number(
approaching 100) URC Ministers who are ‘recognised and regarded’, ministering in
joint pastorates and playing their part in local circuits.
What is my experience of such a pastorate? My last circuit which had two
Methodist/URC churches was where the URC and the Methodist Church would provide
Ministers on an alternating basis. I had a Church with a pastoral roll of over
400 people spread over two counties three services on a Sunday - responsibility
for a small country Methodist Chapel and the Free Church Chaplaincy at the Royal
Military Police Training School. But what I most recall was Meetings!
It helps if you know that what Methodists call Districts, the URC calls Synods;
and what the URC calls Districts corresponds, roughly, to what the Methodist
Church calls Circuits. So, each year, I attended about 30 - 35 Methodist Circuit
and District meetings and synods, and as a URC Minister, I also attended a
further 20 - 25 District and Synod meetings. This does not include the meetings
of the local Church Leaders and Congregation about twice a month.
I have a feeling that we over-met! I also believe that our two denominations,
wrestling with the same problems of numbers, deployment and mission, developed
different documents and strategies to address these issues. It would have been
good to have worked together, and thus used our shared resources with better
stewardship.
All this sounds very negative, but the reality was that this was an enriching
experience. Being a United Church in a cathedral city has exciting ecumenical
opportunities. Sharing the heritage of two traditions brings creative tension to
our work and worship. And there is the great joy of having to work out together
what it means to be ‘Church’ in a particular situation we have guidance and
authority from our parent denominations - but in the end it is about making
theology and mission work together at one time in one place.
Has this any relevance to Church Life in Jersey? I think it has. Any newcomer
realises that here, in a comparatively small Island, there are more Churches and
denominations than virtually any other community. If we are all attempting to
achieve everything worship, outreach, children’s work, pastoral care, teaching,
maintaining premises and witness then there must be a good deal of duplication
of effort with perhaps little local result. I recognise that denominations wish
to keep their own identity, but I am sure that some clusters of churches in
particular parts of Jersey could pool resources and agree that, say, work among
young people could be the strength of one church, teaching and study the
strength of another, traditional worship the role of one congregation, more
modern worship the focus of another’s life. In a number of churches there seem
to be a few people doing too many jobs. It would be good to release them for
some focussed more rewarding, service. What is God calling us to be and to do as
individuals and as churches?
Where does the only URC in Jersey stand in all this? We have this statement as
part of the ‘Nature, Faith and Order of the URC’:
We affirm our intention to go on praying and working, with all our fellow
Christians, for the visible unity of the Church in the way Christ chooses, so
that people and nations may be led to love and serve God and praise him more for
ever.
So, the whole of the United Reformed Church is committed to being a beacon of
hope for unity. In Jersey, we have reordered and flexible premises which we are
anxious to make available to all Christian Churches for retreats and study days
and conferences and to the wider community as a focus for education, support and
service. We are actively exploring such possibilities at present. We will
consult closely with local congregations, and work within Christians Together in
Jersey.
It has been a joy to come to the Channel Islands and in just six months to
explore what ministry means here. I look forward to sharing more and more in the
ecumenical life of Jersey and with my fellow Church members finding, and giving,
encouragement and support within our shared fellowship of faith and service.
Patrick E. J. McManus
Has the Church a future?
Bob Key and his wife Daphne
Over 100 people came to Georgetown to hear the new Dean, Bob Key, speak on this
theme at a Lent talk arranged by churches in the East.
He opened with the image from Ezekiel ‘Can these bones live?’ and commented that
to people in King St. Jesus is much more important than the Church. We need the
Spirit to be active and to have more important priorities than whether women can
be bishops. He would like people to take risks and try new things rather than
hold back feeling that it might be against some rule.
More Spirit, less system
More liberty, less law
More people, less power
was how he summed it up.
He described four types of church
Church Corporate where there is a business culture concerned with
investments and property
Church Comfortable where the car park is just big enough and there
is little room for newcomers. He felt churches should never become more than
three-quarters full so there is room for others. Jesus said ‘Go into all the
world’
Church Club where people know the hymns and form of service and
new people have to conform. The people are scared of change, but William Temple
said ‘the church is the only organisation that exists for those who are not its
members’
Church Confined where it is hard to find the next year’s salary
and it feels hemmed in.. In Revelation there is an image of Jesus walking among
flickering candles encouraging them.
He spoke of Christ in his church bringing mission, vision, presence and power.
He reminded us of the great opportunities we have through the Christian
festivals of Christmas and Easter (and in the JEP before Mothering Sunday, he
spoke of the vital importance of family time). Schools are often grateful for
input from churches. Baptisms, weddings and funerals also provide missionary
opportunities.
He ended by stressing the Centrality of Christ, the Culture of Community and
the Constancy of Change.
He asked for grace to stand firm on the non-negotiable, to abandon the
disposable and the wisdom to tell the difference.
The meeting broke into small groups to begin to answer questions such as ‘How we
cope with change’, ‘What is our part in the future’ and ‘What are the Christian
non-negotiables’? Of course there is no quick answer to these questions but they
are important ones. Working with David Coote and Canon France, I am sure that
Bob Key will help us to advance the kingdom of God here in Jersey.
Ed Le Quesne
Our response begins with a report from the Special Circuit
meeting of Feb. 28th Chairman’s Opening Remarks
Having welcomed everyone to the meeting Rev David Coote said that each of the
fifteen churches in the circuit provides an outlet for Christian faith, witness
and mission. Each one can be a meeting place for people to come face to face
with the living God; each is special and can reach out; each has a group of
people deeply committed to the life of the church and to our Lord and Saviour.
‘For all that we say thank you to God. It may be God’s plan that we could work
better and more effectively if we could pool our resources. It may be that we
need to seek for fresh expressions of being God’s people in the world. It may be
that for a people called by God to be a ‘movement’ we have become too attached
to our buildings, - often left behind in a time warp. It may be that we lack
confidence in God’s almighty power and grace to do the ‘radical’ things. But God
has called us to be his people here in Jersey; some of us born here and others
who have come here because they believed this is where God wanted them to be.
‘The President of the Methodist Conference, the Rev Tom Stuckey, had asked the
question ‘Are we on the edge of Pentecost?’ God is shaking his church. To be
shaken is not comfortable but a spirit led church is never comfortable. Whatever
the outcome of the Circuit Leadership Team’s (CLT) review of the responses
expressed this evening regarding the ‘Shaped for Mission’ report we can be
certain that God has called us to be Kingdom builders sign posts and a model of
the communities God wants his world to be. ‘Uppermost in our minds has got to be
the question ‘What does God want?’ We must remember how important it is not just
to transform ourselves but also to impact on and transform the world around us.’
Reading: 1Cor. 1: v. 25 onwards (God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom )
Prayers Presentations
Each church reported. We print three later.
Discussion Groups
The meeting broke into 9 groups for discussion of 3 questions in the light of
what they had heard at this meeting and then reported back these:-
Question 1 ‘What positive things have come about as a result of the ‘Shaped for
Mission’ Report?
Question 2 ‘What common themes do you discern?’
Question 3 ‘What do you think God is saying to us as a circuit through the
statements made by the local churches?’
Challenge (by a group):-Get people to realise that all the ‘community links’ are
ways of being church
Conclusion David Coote thanked everyone for attending and promised that the CLT
would reflect on the thoughts expressed. Rev Billy Slatter closed the meeting
with a meditation, prayer and the sharing of the grace. Jill Corbin
Response from St Helier Methodist Centre
At St Helier Methodist Centre we went through the often painful process of
amalgamating two congregations and supporting a demanding building scheme
following the 1986 survey into the future of the Methodist Church in the island,
The Way Forward. We feel blessed that we have been through the enormous changes
of the past twenty years and yet have come through that process, stronger and
more equipped to do God’s work. We feel that God’s grace and his love for us,
and our love for each other has brought us to this point and we would like to do
anything we can to help any congregation feeling anxious about the future.
Community
We now feel God is prompting us to use more fully the amazing building we have
and to reach out into the community. Initially we believed this could be done
through the appointment of a Youth Worker but God didn’t seem to be opening any
doors for us and we felt led to look at the bigger picture. We are now looking
to develop the use of our building through a Community Link Worker. Someone who
will not only be on the premises when current users are there, making contacts
and developing relationships with them, but who will also be proactive in
encouraging other user groups to share in our facilities. This could include
working with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau and the Salvation Army. We are at the
point of drawing up a job specification for the Link Worker with the view to
advertising as soon as possible.
Worship
Dovetailing with this has to be an increased awareness within the church of our
spiritual relationship with God and with each other, and of the wider church and
world to which we belong. We now have a regular weekly prayer time on Wednesdays
prior to our lunchtime Communion service. This is open to anyone and is the
first positive step in the development of the church’s prayer ministry. We are
continually looking at ways of improving and opening up our services to more
people through the use of PowerPoint, our sound system and Young People’s music
group.
Wider Links
Looking at the wider picture we are forming a link with an orphanage in South
Africa, not just to offer financial support but to increase our knowledge of how
God is working in other people’s lives and to enable us to build a relationship
with a community in a situation that is different to our own.
We are a Fairtrade church and have many members strongly committed to Fair Trade
and Trade Justice who take every opportunity to promote these ideas and extend
the awareness of our congregation and of the users of our building.
Current Programme
As well as these new initiatives, we continue to run our Friday ‘Stay-a-While’
lunches, we have dance classes meeting in the hall every day after school, the
local Alcoholics Anonymous group meets two evenings a week in the Youth Room,
and various other groups use the hall, Amity Singers and Slimmers World to name
but two. And at Christmas and Easter local schools fill the church for their end
of term services. With Open the Book we have links with many of these schools
throughout the year and our minister has regular contact with d’Auvergne, JCG
Prep and Vic College Prep through assemblies and class visits.
We are blessed with our facilities but can’t be complacent. We continue to seek
God’s will, recognising that we are part of a Circuit and have gifts and
experience to offer here as well as in our own situation. Liz Hunter and Jean
Treleven
Response from Samares
Samarès is returning to its missionary roots.
Increasing numbers in the congregation in the late 1990’s were eroded at the
turn of the century through deaths, etc. The church began to look at
seeker-friendly services, inspired particularly by RUN (Reaching the Unchurched
Network) looking at services from the view of someone with little or no church
background. The next stage was to introduce multi-media facilities. Although no
real numerical growth was seen in the early days, valuable lessons were learned
and the experiment is now paying off in both numerical growth and positive
feedback from members of the congregation. We have been experimenting with café
style worship since Christmas 2005.
We thank God for the encouragement of a growing congregation:
Average for last 4 Sundays Jan 2006 35
Average for last 4 Sundays Jan 2005 24
It is good to know that people feel able to invite their friends. The weekly
offering has also shown a significant increase over the last 6 months. We have a
policy of giving away 10% of the gross income.
Worship & Teaching is undergoing constant review. We are seeking to use
contemporary teaching methods to address the Christian message to real issues of
life. All members of the congregation are now receiving Bible reading notes. The
Sunday School has a lively programme and is gelling well after a recent
leadership change.
Prayer & Fellowship we were heartened to receive 11 people (apart from
leaders) on our first Christianity Explored course begun in January, some of
whom have only been in the church for the last 6 or so months. This was a most
exhilarating event in terms of group participation and we are now embarking on
the A Life Worth Living course as a follow up. The Friday morning prayer meeting
is an essential part of our life and fundamental to the outreach drop-in which
immediately follows.
Principal Outreach -the Friday morning drop-in has become our main
outreach other than individuals sharing with each other. Numbers coming vary
from 5 to say 20 (apart from the organising team). It is a simple but powerful
vehicle for pastoral care and friendship evangelism and we are delighted that at
least 5 people have come to worship through it. Equally some have joined the
drop-in through coming to worship and have brought others.
A Prayerline was introduced in the Pray without Ceasing initiative in
late 2005, much to the interest of BBC Jersey. It has attracted a number of
callers, particularly in the early weeks of operation. We are in the process of
making the Prayerline number widely known around the Island.
Other Recent Initiatives include: the launch of a £7,000 Island-wide
appeal towards the creation of ‘safe house’ facilities for persecuted
Christians.
Website this is an invaluable source of information concerning the
church. It has evangelistic links as well as an email Prayerline link. A number
of visitors to the church have told us that they have come because of the web
site.
Relationships with other churches in the parish - are close but not
overbearing. Church leaders meet on a regular basis and we were full
participants in the 2004 Walk Jersey event.
Current Priorities:
Ongoing development of meaningful worship
Nurture of our people into faith and Christian discipleship
Development of responsible community outreach.
Looking ahead we trust for the Lord’s guidance in the following:
Beginning a Christian club for young people
Holding another Christianity Explored course
Developing the Friday Open Morning drop in
Having the premises open as much as possible for passers by
The appointment of another community worker- our good news is that the Circuit
Meeting has formally approved us to go ahead.
We have become aware of the movement of the Holy Spirit working throughout the
church. Samarès is very much alive and we have every confidence that in His
grace the Lord has great plans for the church. We look forward to the future
with much anticipation, and will appreciate the Circuit’s prayerful support.
Henry Le Ruez
Response from Ebenezer
Ebenezer has had a rather eventful last three months. Edward de Gruchy
celebrated his 90th birthday in February and the congregation in both the
traditional and family worship services sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to him. Edward is
a very popular member of the church and is always supportive of the efforts that
we make to attract and support our’ young people’, to use his expression. He has
been very supportive of the new initiative with the Family Worship in our hall
and thinks it is wonderful how everyone gets involved with the service, young
and old worshipping together.
A young family who arrived in the island at the end of last year have found us
and are regular attendants at our Family Worship service. They have recently had
a new addition to their family, a baby son. His name is Zac and together with
his young sister Lara we are delighted to welcome them at Ebenezer. They have
come from Welwyn Garden City and interestingly their local church there has been
operating a similar new approach to church services. We will ‘tap up’ this
source to get ideas on how we can develop further.
We also have a very keen young mother who is organising a Parents Babies and
Toddlers Group. Brian Richardson’s daughter-in-law, Jeannie Richardson is hoping
to get this started after Easter.
The session will be every Friday probably starting at 2 till 4, term time only.
Jeannie has over a dozen mums who have expressed an interest. Dads, grandparents
and nannies are also invited to join in this new venture. Jeannie has attended
the launch of the La Pouquelaye group at the old school to get some ideas and to
make sure all the health and safety regulations are adhered to! Any young
couples out there interested in joining, please contact Jeannie on
johnjeannierichardson@gmail.com or telephone her on 878999 and she will add your
name to her list.
The ‘3 in 1 merger’ of Sion, Eden and Ebenezer received a further boost, after
Sion recently approved the merger at the Ebenezer site. The three churches are
delighted to be working together for the future of Methodism in Jersey. When the
new church and Council is formed, we will be able to discuss together how we
will operate, to ensure we achieve future growth and extend our mission work in
Jersey. As one of the Eden reps. stated at the various meetings held, this
project HAS to go forward with vision and imagination.
The Ebenezer Property Committee is already working hard to get a new car park,
as this is one of the conditions for the merger, and is of paramount importance
to any work that is done at this site.
Our new minister, Billy Slatter, has brought a new vision with him. One
of his ideas is to work with the hotel next door. The church building is located
on the busy east west route across the top of the island with many people
driving past daily. Being a prominent site opens up all sorts of possibilities
to advertise the church’s work and open its doors to public gatherings, such as
concerts etc. Just to demonstrate the type of ‘Mission’ that can come out
of the site there was one particular incident last year. A hotel guest was on
holiday and on her last day in Jersey she heard that her spiritual advisor had
committed suicide. She was obviously devastated by this and went to Ebenezer.
Fortunately someone was around and let her into the church. She stayed a while
and then phoned Billy Slatter. They spent some time on the phone and prayed
together. Some days later she wrote saying that she was still coming to terms
with what had happened, and as a Roman Catholic she had never been into a
Methodist Church before. However, this lady was so grateful that at her time of
need the church was accessible and opened up for her. Billy gave her the time
she needed to get through this difficult crisis and that we, the church were
there to support her.
In closing I would just like to leave readers with a summary of Rev. John Dodds
personal reflections at the 150th Anniversary Service in 1976. This occasion
celebrated key events in Ebenezer’s past. The original chapel was built in 1826,
then knocked down and rebuilt in 1894. My great grandfather was one of the
Trustee’s at the time, and I have inherited the silver trowel given to him at
the time as a token gift. In 1923 pews were removed and the new organ and choir
stalls were put in place. This demonstrates that the church has constantly
reinvented itself and moved with the times, doing what was necessary at that
time to meet the needs of the worshippers. Please let this be an example to us
all!
‘Patterns of worship and methods of witness are under scrutiny and criticism, we
MUST be prepared to adapt and change, that the WORK of GOD
may not be hindered. Our forefathers were innovators. Their freedom of
thought and action became channels of the SPIRIT’S action’.
That was 30 years ago! John Dodds was a much loved minister of both Sion
and Ebenezer, and got the young people of the time meeting together in a house
group on Sunday evenings. I was one of them. John had a big influence on my life
and indeed officiated at our wedding.
As he said ‘LET US PRAY THAT WE MAY FIND THAT SAME FREEDOM THAT WE TOO MAY BE
USED BY GOD.’ Ecumenical Links- As usual our friends from Holy Trinity
Parish Church will be joining us on Liberation Day 9th May for our joint Parish
Thanksgiving Service. The return match is that we join them to celebrate Trinity
Sunday on the 11th June. These are both permanent annual fixtures.
We are indeed very fortunate to have developed a strong link with our Anglican
colleagues over many years. Indeed there is very good support from parishioners
in the work that is done at both our parish churches.
Other Special Services: Easter Sunday we are having our friends from Sion
and Eden to join us in a combined service at 10.30am. This will be a Family
Communion Service.
Sunday 16th July we are having our Annual Open Air Service, starting at 10.30
am, with a BBQ to follow. There is a change of venue this year to accommodate
extra numbers. It will be held on the Glebe Field next to Trinity Youth Centre
for ease of parking and catering. This is an open invitation to family and
friends to join us, but please telephone the stewards for tickets, so that we
cater for enough people!
Network: For some time now the Sion ladies have joined our Network
Fellowship. For those interested in joining this group, please contact Mrs.
Eileen du Feu. Due to the length of this newsletter highlight news from this
group will be mentioned in next quarter’s news. Michael Picot
(Ebenezer contact for Jersey Methodist)
Eric Young House -The Jersey Cheshire Home
A group from the Jersey Cheshire Home carol-singing in the Precinct
Opened in 1983 and named after the generous, principal benefactor, the first
residents arrived on 5 January. The ‘family’ grew slowly over the next few weeks
and by the time that Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra visited to officially
open the home on 25 July 1983, there were 15 residents living there. In the
twenty three years since that time the home has been privileged to receive two
more visits by the princess on the tenth and twentieth anniversaries of the
opening. These occasions gave a tremendous fillip to the residents and the
interest and delight that Princess Alexandra took in noticing the advances in
facility that were evident to her between each visit and her apparent memory of
some of the longest staying residents made the visits a very personal experience
for everyone. On the last visit in July 2003, some of the residents of Maison La
Corderie and the children from the Centrepoint nursery came to the home to share
in the special day.
Our residents’ ages range from 18 to over 80 and their physical abilities are
limited by a variety of conditions from multiple sclerosis, brain haemorrhages &
strokes, to severe rheumatism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida and muscular
dystrophy. Mobility impairment from ageing would not be a prime reason to admit
a new resident as the home has a policy limiting the top age of a new resident
to 60 years old. Finances are explored with a prospective resident but lack of
funds is never a barrier to admission, which is based on physical need and
suitability only. This situation means that the Foundation Committee has always
to be mindful of the need to raise funds year on year to make up the shortfall
and an endowment fund was set up in the early years to assist in good financial
management. The need for the size of the fund to be increased has grown steadily
as the home has expanded and as regulations have increased, putting a greater
strain on the budget in relation to staff costs etc.
In the early years there were many volunteers helping residents to dress, feed
themselves, cook occasional suppers when the chef was away/ill, go on shopping
trips, clean the home and do the garden. Additionally coffee mornings, flag days
and other fundraising events were held. Many of these supporters are no longer
able to help in this way and their input is missed. It is no longer allowed or
expected that volunteers would become involved with the personal care of a
resident but companionship for outings and occupational activities is
appreciated and more offers would be welcomed. Offers to read aloud, one to one
or to a small group, willingness to play crib or cards from time to time; help
in the residents’ kitchen with baking for recreation and for cake sales. If
anyone has an arts and crafts skill that they could share from time to time the
activities officer, Anita Desprès can be contacted at the home on 285858 and
would love to hear from you. Many of the residents enjoy going to Bingo once a
month and there is a need for volunteers to accompany this evening out; an extra
driver for the home’s minibus would be good to be able to call on and several
residents like to go to the theatre and cinema but need a companion to go with
them. (The staff quite often go but cannot always spare their own time in
addition to working their shift).
Situated in Rope Walk and only a few yards from Maison La Corderie, both homes
share time together. The Cheshire Home is pleased to welcome residents from MHA
to coffee mornings and teas and occasionally to buy oddments at the home’s shop.
Over several years La Corderie residents have helped in making paper flowers for
the JCH entry into the Battle of Flowers. The residents of JCH enjoy going down
to La Corderie to take part in the quiz mornings and musical events in either
home are often shared.
Several of the residents are Catholic and go to Mass at St Thomas’s.
Additionally Father Brian visits the home regularly. Three or four enjoy going
to St Paul’s twice a month, where they are made very welcome. The home would
welcome an offer to accompany a resident to any special Christian
events/services, ecumenical or otherwise. There is no specific chaplaincy
arrangement for the home and perhaps this is a challenge that we could address?
There is a lot of laughter at the home and one of the joys of helping there is
to see someone ‘blossom’ as the problems of daily living are ironed out by the
care staff and opportunities to become more independent are grasped. For each
resident the extent of the practical help they require is different but each one
is enabled to make choices from day to day that lead to a more fulfilling life.
A classic example of personal choice occurred a few years ago. We had a young
woman in her early twenties who had severe cerebral palsy. She was confined to a
wheelchair and her speech was very, very difficult to follow; she used an
electronic communicator sometimes, although she usually preferred to shout at
you until the light dawned! Anyway, she decided that she wanted to go
‘inter-railing’ around Europe with her boyfriend/carer (well other young people
did this, so why not her?). There was some heart-searching and several people
thought that she should not ‘be allowed’ to go, but she was an adult and capable
of making her own decisions (her condition was physically limiting not mentally
impairing) and in the event she bought the ferry tickets and off they went. They
were away for nearly a month, having made no advance reservations they took
pot-luck on hostel accommodation, and, living on a shoe string budget, had the
time of their lives. They returned home stony broke, very grubby and exhilarated
by the whole experience. This young woman’s determination to be an individual
and make her own life decisions later led to her being granted a specially
adapted flat in St Helier, where she ran her own home with lots of backup from
the Family Nursing & Home Care and a weather eye being kept on her by staff from
JCH who had become her friends.
The original ethos of the home was to provide a ‘home from home’ within which
the family members could be as independent as it was their wish to be. The
concept was as far removed from an institution or hospital as it was possible
and practical to be. Successive legislation in relation to care/nursing homes
has placed restrictions on the flexibility of the management of the home and
requirements for qualified staff and set procedures. However, within this more
controlled framework, the successive committee members have managed to maintain
a warm and friendly atmosphere and the home has been fortunate to have a very
loyal and devoted staff, some of whom have been there for twenty years. The
Foundation Committee is aware of the generous, voluntary public support that the
home receives and uses its best endeavours to use the funds given to the maximum
benefit of the Cheshire Home family. The publicity given by the recent article
in the Jersey Evening Post was comprehensive and it quoted the website
www.jerseycheshirehome.com for
those wishing to know more about the home’s on going activities.
The Jersey Cheshire Home is affiliated to Leonard Cheshire International and
shares news and views with members of the world-wide Cheshire family but is
financially and managerially independent. There are Cheshire homes in 52
countries around the world each has its own distinctive personality; some cater
specifically for children; some have rehabilitation as their main aim; others
are a training and physiotherapy centre and others still run sheltered
workshops. The common link is empowerment of the individual and the value and
respect due to every human being. Without these provisions, many people would
have very restricted lives within the confines of an institution (or deserted in
poverty, in the case of some of the third world countries).
Jersey has a fine home for 23 disabled residents and offers day care for as many
more. The home can always do with support. Can you help?
Di Toole, MBE
The death of Rev. Terry Hampton, a recent resident of JCH, occurred on Thurs,
March 23rd
March Circuit meeting
At the circuit meeting Kevin was thanked by David Coote for his colleagueship
and commitment to building up the life of the circuit. His deep faith and sense
of call has impressed itself upon the lives of many. His work at Stuart Court
and in maintaining the Good Friday film committee has been much appreciated. The
love and prayers of the Circuit go with him, Anne Marie, who has been a valued
local preacher and their family to Southport Banks Circuit where Kevin will be
Superintendent Minister.
The meeting agreed by 38 votes to 5 with a proposal from the Circuit Stewards to
sell the manse at Croix au Lion when Kevin Jones leaves as it was felt to be
damp and likely to require £100,000 in repairs. There was some feeling that it
was a spacious home, the damp was not too serious and the amount obtained from
the sale would not meet the cost of a replacement. The Circuit Advance Fund will
cover the costs of the sale. This Fund can also be approached for help by
churches with an active mission plan. The full criteria for this are still to be
decided.
Eric Le Rossignol presented the budget for 2006 / 07 along with explanations of
the changes in assessment of the churches. The expenditure is just over £290,000
and was agreed unanimously.
The Local Preachers report welcomed Karen Le Mouton as an accredited local
preacher and Linda Haines has a note to preach with June Le Rossignol as her
mentor. There will be a Discernment Day on June 17th, for those considering
whether they have a call to preach or lead worship.
David Coote referred to the special Circuit meeting of Feb. 28th. An aide
memoire of the points made has been prepared which will be considered by the
leadership team on an away day at the end of March.
Rev. Chris White reported on the decisions of the three churches group to
combine Ebenezer, Sion and Eden on the site at Ebenezer. Henry Le Ruez asked the
Circuit to approve the appointment of a Youth & Community Worker at Samares
which they did gladly.
A formal announcement will soon be made of Henry Le Ruez as prison chaplain for
9 hours a week along with Father Michael Marett-Crosby and possibly an Anglican
minister. David Coote, the Anglican and Catholic Deans and the Governor have
formed a board to oversee religious affairs at the prison.
Investigations by Peter Luce revealed that it was not possible to sell Maison
Binet and put the money into a Trust Fund to pay for the Housing of retired
ministers. Thus it was reluctantly concluded that Gorey Church should be put up
for sale, but ownership of Maison Binet kept in the hands of the Circuit.
Speeches from the floor asked the Leadership team to see whether there was any
other solution.
The meeting gladly agreed to the appointment of Mrs. Rosemary Millow as Circuit
Archivist. Enid Quenault was thanked for her seven years service as Circuit
steward. Tony Hefford is also stepping down in September after one year’s
service. There are two vacancies for stewards and also vacancies on the Good
Friday film committee.
There will be an exhibition of the Methodist Church Collection of Modern
Christian Art at the Arts Centre and St. Helier Methodist Centre for a month
from Jan 15th 2007. An information pack will be sent to schools in good time and
it is hoped that the exhibition will be the basis of house groups and prayer
groups. Revs. Billy Slatter and Liz Hunter would like to hear from two or three
people who would like to be involved in this exciting project.
The meeting at St. Ouen ended after 10 p.m., and we were invited to Ebenezer for
the next meeting in September.
Ed Le Quesne
Visit of John Bell, Vice-President
The draft programme says that he will arrive on Thursday, May 11th and speak at
the Woman’s Network Easter Offering service at Ebenezer in the afternoon and
meet with staff and stewards in the evening.
After morning prayers at the Biarritz, during Friday he will meet with Senator
Terry Le Sueur and colleagues in the finance ministry and with members of the
Institute of Directors. In the evening the VP will speak to a meeting of people
who go out to work on ‘Faith in the Workplace’ and there will be time for
questions.
On Saturday morning there will be a ‘Meet the VP’ coffee morning in aid of
Christian Aid at Communicare, and he will speak briefly. Christian Aid
supporters have been very much behind Jersey’s recognition as a Fairtrade Island
and Christian Aid Week is the following week. The VP will meet friends in Jersey
before departing for Guernsey in the afternoon.
More details to be circulated later.
Welcome to our new Minister
Charmaine and I are looking forward to joining you in September. We are coming
from an inner city appointment in Islington, London, so we are aware that things
will be very different for us when we arrive!
I am from Manchester originally, and my first circuit appointment was in
Rochdale, Lancs. We were there for 7 years and moved to London because I was
interested in continuing my prison ministry. The appointment here has been very
varied and interesting as I have been working 20 hours a week spread across
Holloway women's prison and Pentonville men's prison, as well as looking after
two churches in Islington. It's been a busy six years!
Charmaine has been working in the Methodist Church Charity shop while we've been
here, and has used the opportunity to give a listening ear to many of the
problems people bring in to the shop.
Photo of Malcolm and Charmaine Bailey
We have two daughters. Cheryl is a school teacher in Elland, North Yorkshire.
Lindsay is married to Martin and has just given us our first grand child, Pippa.
She will be giving us our second later this month
(March) God willing. Lindsay, Martin and Pippa live in Guernsey, a small island
quite near you! (We've heard a little bit about the 'friendly rivalry'!).
We were very touched by the warmth and friendliness of the people we met when we
came over at the beginning of December. Particular thanks to Enid for
shepherding us around and keeping a watchful eye on the itinerary. The weather
was awful! There were gales and lashing rain, but we remember people's kindness
more than anything. And a beautiful rainbow that appeared. A timely reminder of
God's promises.
We actually came to Jersey on holiday in June last year. It seems very strange
now, as thinking back to that fortnight, that we had no inkling whatsoever that
we might be coming to live there for the next few years. Then we met the Chair,
David Coote on two separate occasions and talked to Kevin and Ann Marie, who
were kind enough to invite us to lunch after the service. I think, by then, we
were beginning to wonder...
And so to the last few months finishing things off here in London; and saying
'Good Bye' to many friends that we have made, as you will be saying ‘Good Bye’
to Kevin and his family. There is much to do, and I'm sure as we join you there
will be many blessings ahead as we journey together. Pray for us, as we will be
praying for you.
In Christ's love,
Malcolm and Charmaine Bailey
We have a new Archivist
Photo of Rosemary Millow
I am delighted to be asked to be Methodist Archivist. My name is Rosemary Millow.
I was born Rosemary Lobb, daughter of John Lobb, (who was organist at Wesley
Grove) and his wife Betty (who has recently celebrated her 90th birthday). I was
baptized at Aquila Road Methodist Church in 1950 and attended Sunday school
there as a child.
I am a piano teacher and active member of the Channel Island Family History
Society. It was in this latter role that I first became interested in the
history of Methodism in Jersey, making an extensive study of the Primitive
Methodist Church at Aquila Rd
I would welcome any additions to the Archive, however insignificant the donor
may perceive the items to be. Photographs or fragile material can be copied to
ensure that they can be seen and studied without being damaged.
My telephone number is 721802 and my e mail rose.cifhs@localdial.com Some items
will be accepted by the Jersey Archive who already house and preserve a large
Methodist Collection. I will be keeping the rest of the material safe, sorted
and accessible.
I wonder if any of the churches on the Island has a small area of shelf space or
some nook or cranny where a small library of old books could be housed. Many of
these books include inscriptions, a list of which will be made and could be of
interest to the descendants of those named. Rosemary Millow
Disciple course
Every Wednesday evening since mid January up to eighteen people have met at
Georgetown, promptly at 7. Before coming they have read quite large sections of
the Bible and made notes on points of interest. Each week has a single word
title such as Authority, Wonder, Sin, Covenant, Deliverance (the first five
covering much of Genesis and Exodus). We see a short video and discuss,
sometimes in small groups, sometimes together, our response as disciples to the
passages. In some of the early books of the Old Testament, we have met
bloodthirsty incidents, quite unacceptable to modern minds, yet we are also
aware of how precious the covenant was to the descendents of Abraham and how the
laws given to Moses guided them as they settled in the Promised Land. After we
have worked through 17 weeks in the Old Testament, we should be able to
appreciate more deeply the New Covenant brought by Jesus.
Rev. Liz Hunter has been an encouraging guide and we learn from each other as we
sit next to different neighbours week by week. There is a break for refreshments
halfway through and we finish promptly at 9.30. With a holiday in August, our 34
weeks will end on Wednesday November 8th!! Ed Le Quesne
LAY WORKERS’ CONFERENCE
6th-10th March 2006
Once again the Channel Islands were well represented at this year’s Conference
with Roger Browning, a lay worker in Sark, Lois Emm a new lay worker in Guernsey
and June Le Rossignol and Pat Tourtel from Jersey.
This year’s theme was ‘Taking Risks if you want to get your feet wet you need to
step out of the boat’. During one of the bible study sessions we looked closely
at the account of Jesus coming to the disciples walking on the water and calling
to Peter to come to him. We were asked to imagine ourselves in that situation
our reactions, why Peter began to sink, and consider whether we were stepping
out of the boat and taking risks.
Unfortunately the President of Conference was unable to visit as he had lost his
voice, but the gap was ably filled by a Brazilian minister living and working in
Luton.
There was a varied choice of subjects covered by the workshops one which I found
immensely helpful being suggestions for ‘Deepening Prayer’ as one learned how to
relax in God’s presence. Another workshop which I found extremely meaningful was
a Labyrinth- sensing the passion, where we were invited to follow Jesus as he
journeyed to the Cross.
A plenary session led by Malcolm Duncan of Faithworks was deeply impressive as
he inspired us with his dynamic vision, his enthusiastic, energetic and
entertaining approach to social justice, stressing that the church is the
greatest catalyst for change that the world has ever had, that we need to have a
kingdom mentality to engage positively with people, that faith does have
something to say about everyday life.
In case this all sounds too serious we had time off when we indulged in Scottish
Dancing and watched Wallace & Gromit’s latest film ‘The curse of the Were
Rabbit’, which was hilarious. I also joined the group of handbell ringers which
progressed sufficiently to lead grace before one of the meals.
It was good to meet other lay workers and hear about their lives and churches,
as well as making new friends. The fellowship and friendship shared during the
meals and in the small groups which met for discussion helped us to feel that we
belong to something greater than ourselves and that in our own small way we are
all in the business of helping to bring God’s kingdom a step nearer. Pat
Tourtel
Methodist Homes for the Aged- Update
MAISON LA CORDERIE
This last quarter has been a very busy time at the Home. On the 6th of February
Edward de Gruchy a much loved resident celebrated his 90th Birthday. The Matron
organised a surprise musical evening for Edward, even though he had requested
that there be no fuss! His brother and sister were also unaware of the party,
but were delighted to celebrate this special occasion with their fellow
residents, close family and the Chairman and his wife. Edward was particularly
touched that his minister from Ebenezer and one of the Stewards also attended
this select gathering.
The lounge has been finally completed with the arrival of the seating. All that
is left is for the Directors and Matron to select the finishing touches. With
its new fireplace the lounge has taken on a much more homely appearance. The
Board is indeed grateful for the donations and bequests received over the years,
which have contributed to this ongoing updating of our Homes.
The two short stay rooms have now been made en-suite, which brings them up to
modern day standards. There are still vacancies during the year, so if any
family and friends require residential respite care, then please give our Matron
a call to find out more about this service that we offer in both our Homes. We
also still have one permanent vacancy, after Margaret Le Gresley and Lucille
Holley joined us recently. We are now altering and updating the bathrooms on
each floor. With ageing residents we will be able to install more user friendly
baths and showers, which will make the life of our valued staff much easier.
With the above work completed shortly the Board has decided to have an ‘Open
Day’ in August in order that people from the circuit and others can come and see
this wonderful service that is provided to the community. Watch your church
newsletter for details out shortly. This is not only to show the type of care on
offer, but also, is to give thanks to those that have given money to enable us
to update the facilities.
STUART COURT
There have been no big birthday celebrations this quarter but we have another
100th Birthday due in May. This will bring the number of residents in Stuart
Court who are over 100 to four. We have ladies of 102, 101 and 100 and we have
many residents over 90 and fast approaching 100, and this is out of a total of
26 residents!
The Board is still waiting for approval of the car parking scheme at Denehurst,
as without this we cannot begin the dining room extension for Stuart Court.
There has been a site meeting with the senior planning officer involved and we
are hopeful that after some concessions by us final approval will be received
shortly. At the same time work will also begin to convert Denehurst into three
self contained units of accommodation for couples who can live independently
with the minimum of support from our Home next door.
When complete we will again have an ‘Open Day’ so that the wider community can
see what superb facilities we have on offer at these two sites.
Michael Picot - Administrator 872454
Tearfund Church representatives
Robert and Sue Baudains are the Tearfund representatives in Jersey. They would
like to encourage more to join. The Tearfund leaflet answers the question ‘What
do Tearfund Representatives do? Like this’
‘You’ll become the familiar face of Tearfund within your church. You’ll also be
part of a team of thousands of volunteers across the UK. We’d like to help you
to;
* Share Tearfund resources with your church leaders and encourage them to
incorporate Christian action with the world’s poorest people into the life of
the church
* Display Tearfund literature on notice boards and in newsletters
* Encourage people to read & receive Tear Times
* Let us know how things are going and pass on comments and questions from the
church.
We’d like you to take on the assignment for one year to start with.’ John Eames,
Tearfund’s regional director is coming to Jersey in the summer to give talks in
schools and to meet new Tearfund reps. If you are interested in becoming a rep,
please contact Robert and Sue on 738914.
Kathleen Noel retires
La Rocque G.B. Company
Kathleen Noel came into Girls Brigade in 1974 when I was asked to form a company
at La Rocque. Kathleen started as a helper then decided to become fully
involved, took her commission and became a Lieutenant. Then a few years ago I
returned to St. Martins and she took over as the Company Captain. She also
became Island Deputy Commissioner. In 1996, Kathleen received a 20 year service
award.
With all these positions Kathleen has been a very loyal and enthusiastic
officer. Brigade would have been a lot poorer without her input. Kathleen has
given her all not only to the Company but to the District and our Headquarters
at Bethel. She leaves behind a rich legacy and many girls and young women will
have cause to be thankful for the love and care she has given them. It is with
regret that we note that Kathleen has now decided that the time has come to hand
over the reins and retire.
Ann Marett (Island Commissioner )
New life for Galaad Chapel
My husband Pete and I had been looking for a house for about 3 months. We
couldn’t agree on any of the houses we saw - too small, too big, too dated and
generally not inspiring. The property we bought in the end had a lot of interest
on the first day of viewings. We bought it within 25 minutes of us seeing it
together - complete with altar and pews! We are the proud owners of Galaad
Chapel in Rue de Haut. One day as I was standing outside of our 1832 Chapel, a
nearby resident asked me if it was going to be a restaurant. No new Restaurant
on Rue de Haut, I’m afraid, but a 4-bedroomed house. It will obviously keep its
original external features (due to historical buildings regulations) but the
interior will be very modern, open-plan and ‘not very child-friendly’ - as my
mother remarked! For those interested, features will include a polished-concrete
fireplace going through three floors and a floating walkway, connecting the two
mezzanine galleries. We will keep as many of the original features as possible
and even use the pews in the renovation.
We bought the Chapel in January 2005. It was through a later donation of a piece
- the painted glass panels of the ‘Decalogue’ - to the Jersey Museum that the
makers of the ITV drama ‘Under the Greenwood Tree’ heard about our 'interesting
space’ as they called it. Hamptonne was the primary site for the drama’s set and
the village church was ‘built’ on its grounds. However, when characters entered
the church, they actually stepped into our Chapel! The production team built a
set within Galaad, spending about two weeks on site altogether. We were really
privileged to actually witness some of the scenes being filmed. A real ‘once in
a lifetime’ experience and an event that adds even more history to our
(soon-to-be) unique house.
This article originally was written by Katya Lightbody for the St. Lawrence
Parish Magazine. I am grateful to Chris White for bringing it to my attention
and for permission by the editor, Ann Bougourd, to reproduce it here, of
interest to all Methodists round the Island. In a later issue, I hope that Pete,
an airline pilot and Katya, a teacher, will let us see the final result later
this year.
Ed Le Quesne
Karen Le Mouton
Karen was recognised as an accredited Local Preacher at a service at her home
church of Bethlehem on Sunday evening, March 19th. The service was led by Rev.
Kevin Jones and the Bethlehem music group. There was no need for a printed order
of service as all hymns, prayers and lessons were projected boldly onto the
front wall. Betty Mourant preached, recalling 68 years of commitment to Christ.
Karen thanked her mentor, Pat Tourtel, and all who had helped her during her
three years of training. She spoke of herself as a piece of a jigsaw puzzle who
God can fit into his plan. She was presented with a letter from the President,
Tom Stuckey, read out by L.P. secretary, Sue Le Riche, and a Bible by John
Perkins on behalf of the circuit.
Photo of Karen and worship leaders
At the same service, 6 worship leaders were recognised after their training.
They are Margaret Le Marquand (The Bay), Liz Lambotte (St. Aubin), Ali Connan
(Bethlehem), Betty de Laune (The Bay), Wilma Le Moignan (Bethlehem) and Ruth
Heaven (Georgetown). Karen is between Betty and Wilma.
Karen introduces herself
Karen Le Mouton was educated at Les Quennevais School and Hautlieu sixth form
before going to Bedford Teacher Training College. She then transferred to the
University of East Anglia to do her honours degree. She began her teaching
career in Norfolk. During this time she was a lieutenant in the Girls’ Brigade
in both Bedford and Norwich.
Karen then took up a teaching post in the Cayman Islands and also took on the
role of Training Officer for the Girls Brigade. She supported five companies
across 72 square miles. It was here that she became a British Sub Aqua Scuba
diver and a branch instructor. She was there for four years before returning to
Jersey in 1984.
Galaad Girls’ Brigade Company was captained by Karen until she became deputy
head teacher at Rouge Bouillon School and concentrated on her teaching career.
She has taught at St Peter’s, Bel Royal and Rouge Bouillon Schools where she
held a number of different posts of responsibility. During this time she also
completed her Master degree in Special Needs: Autism and the National
Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).
In April 2001, Karen took up the post of Head of Pupil Support at the Department
for Education, Sport and Culture and is responsible for all pupils with special
needs from 3-19 years.
Karen is married to Steve and they have two cats, called Laurel and Hardy. Karen
and Steve worship at Bethlehem Church, enjoy travelling, cooking for friends and
the outdoors, particularly skiing. (Karen is the daughter of Aileen Banks, who
has also had a long association with the Girls Brigade)
Jersey Network
Jersey Network have experimented during this last year with two new
circuit events. It was decided to have these on a Saturday morning 1000 to 1200
in order to make it easier for younger women working or with families to attend.
The first was held in November and titled ‘Christmas Unwrapped’ and was
held at Georgetown. It started by a talk by Rev. David Coote about the history
of some of our traditions of Christmas and where they come from. Following
refreshments attendees had a choice. They could stay in the church for a time of
reflection, away from the Christmas rush, to listen to music or write poems or
prayers. This was led by Rev. Chris White. They could attend one or more of the
workshops:- to make an advent ring, Chrismon tree decorations, a nativity
wreath, an unusual advent calendar or yule log decoration. These were all led by
different members of the Methodist Circuit. It was great fun and was enjoyed by
those who attended.
Photo of people at Oasis
The people at Oasis
The second session was also held at Georgetown entitled’ ‘Oasis’
O opportunity
A and
S space for
I inner
Stillness
This was an opportunity to take some time out to see Christianity expressed
through art, to enjoy expert photographs together with reflective music and
experience simple relaxation exercises just where the attendees were sitting.
Photo of Chris's art
Rev. Chris White led a really interesting session ‘Christianity expressed in a
variety of arts’ (shown in the photo) and then following refreshments there was
a display of striking and interesting photographs by Sheila Birch with
accompanying music to allow time to reflect. The session was rounded off by
Barbara Coote with some simple relaxation exercises. Another day is planned for
the summer look out for details
Barbara Coote
Joe Briggs
Photo of Joe Briggs
A much loved member of St. Ouen, seen here in thoughtful pose, died quite
suddenly on February 16th, aged 88. He and his late wife Yole joined St. Ouen
about 38 years ago after their return from Canada, having lived in Roseville
Street and worshipped at Georgetown, whilst they awaited the completion of their
bungalow. They very quickly became immersed in the life of the Church. Joe
eventually became Treasurer and Steward, both posts he held for many years.
Joe was always ready to attend meetings and events and to speak up for St. Ouen
when necessary. Both he and Yole were very generous in the use of their home for
prayer meetings, coffee mornings etc. and for many years were ever ready to
provide lunch for the Preacher. A number of the congregation will remember
joining them, Joe usually being responsible for the washing up!
Joe was a very regular worshipper always with a few words of welcome to
visitors. A very full church for his funeral was a fitting tribute to him and he
will be very much missed both by the members and the Circuit.
Thank you Joe for all the encouragement and love you gave each one of us at St.
Ouen.
Valerie Remon
It was the privilege of the Methodists to host the Women’s World Day of Prayer
which was held at St. Helier Methodist Centre on March 3rd. The theme was ‘Signs
of the Times’ and was prepared by Christian Women of South Africa.
There were participants from the Catholic, Anglican, Baptist, Methodist,
Community Church, Salvation Army, URC, Church of Scotland and Quaker churches
which led to a good mix of all Christians. The service was a good mixture of
traditional and modern hymns and songs. The Rev Judy Davey led the service and
Rev Liz Hunter gave an inspiring address. The service ended by us singing
‘amen, siyaku dumisa!
(amen, we praise Your name, O God!)
Barbara Coote
Kevin Jones at Cliff College
I began my MA in Leadership renewal and mission with an intensive week of study
and two weeks of follow up work which proved to be an inspiration. Cliff has
become prominent in the field of charismatic renewal and is now linked with
universities in the UK and Singapore; it has more post-graduate than full time
undergraduate students.
The first module was on Leadership and proved a valuable reflection on how we
actually lead the church today. Leadership is not taught as part of our
ministerial training so this was a real eye opener. I only wish I had known some
of these lessons when I arrived in Jersey rather than as I am about to leave.
One important lesson is that we cannot lead until we have gained people’s trust.
Looking back, establishing a relationship of trust took perhaps three years in
the Jersey context, but without trust there is always tension and growth will be
very difficult.
The second week on renewal in the church was equally challenging and writing up
that work continues at the present.
Kevin completed his sabbatical with reading and writing: He said
‘One of the great difficulties of a minister is to become jaded and stale. When
enough people say ‘you can’t do that’ eventually you start to believe it. My aim
was to read as much positive faith building literature as I could and to go
through several faith building lessons on CD or tape. I have spent time reading
John Maxwell and Robert Schuller and begun again to regain a vision of what is
possible if we believe and work together. I also spent time writing, producing a
children’s book, ‘The real Father Christmas.’ (The story of St Nicholas) and how
he became Santa Claus, this is still for sale at £4 and all profits go to the
Uganda 4 wheel drive appeal. In addition I wrote the Easter course our western
churches are now following on ‘The seven last words of Christ.’
I am glad to be back with family and serving in what is becoming a forward
looking circuit. I am also looking forward to my new post in Southport Banks,
perhaps if you visit Lancashire you will call and see us? May God bless you in
all your work and travels for Him
Kevin Jones
Global finance
Andrew Pendleton of Christian Aid made some important points at a recent meeting
of CA helpers.
* Christian Aid makes an investment in developing countries as it spends our
donations. It has a duty to protect its investment by making sure their effects
are not swept away by other factors, so it is interested in large issues like
tax policies.
* In round figures, developing countries benefit from aid ($80bn) and debt
relief ($1bn) each year. Trade is about neutral and $230 bn is spent on FDI
(Foreign Direct Investment), though about half is spent buying up existing
companies not new work. However this is dwarfed by capital flight from
developing countries of about $500bn a year. This $500bn consists of about
$200bn of rich people sending money abroad, $250bn of tax avoided by companies
and $50bn by corruption.
* There are 72 tax havens in the world, including the City of London, New York
and Tokyo! 35 are in the Commonwealth.
* Half of world trade passes through tax havens. 60% of world trade is transfers
within companies, such as Shell Nigeria selling to Shell UK.
* Companies can manipulate prices to their advantage by overpricing goods sold
to, say, Nigeria and under pricing the oil exported. The same oil can be traded
many times through subsidiary companies before its final destination so no
single transaction looks unreasonable, but the overall result is a loss of
revenue to the developing country and low tax for the multinational company. The
subsidiary companies are often set up in tax havens, which offer secrecy or
‘commercial confidentiality’.
* The way forward is transparency and an international effort by Governments to
regulate big companies so that the benefits that capitalism can bring are shared
by all and not directed to increasing the wealth of those already rich.
Jersey must play its part in the global effort to reform the international
financial system, be a part of the solution. We have much legitimate business
carried out here and facing up to the issues raised by Christian Aid won’t cause
the collapse of our finance industry. Ed Le Quesne
Thanks to all who have contributed to 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
