World Cup Worship

 Rarely does Jersey have so much interest about what is happening at church as there was following the publicity given to World Cup Worship at St. Martin’s.  There were a few negative comments, complaints even  before the event, but overwhelmingly the general response was positive, especially from those who do not usually go to church.  Certainly, those who came to the service found it is possible to have a celebration of faith and football that is honouring to God, true to the gospel and highly enjoyable to be part of.

    The service was covered by all the Jersey media; Jersey103FM, BBC Radio Jersey, Channel TV and the JEP. A national news agency distributed it to all the UK press and The Methodist Recorder gave a full report. The publicity ensured that World Cup Worship became the subject of conversations both inside church and outside in schools, workplaces and shops.

    The service has been declared a great success. The congregation that morning was more than double its usual numbers and was swelled mainly by people who do not usually go to church. Indeed there were many who rarely or never go to church and we pray that they have had a seed of faith planted in them that may be watered and nurtured in the months ahead.

    What World Cup Worship did was create a way of connecting faith and leisure. It demonstrated how God is interested in the whole of our lives, not just the religious bit, and it did so in a way that related to people who would not normally respond to the usual church activities.

    Most importantly though, was the way our church members had their own confidence increased. Christians found a reason to talk about church to people they would not normally talk about it to and to invite people they would not normally invite. And many were surprised at the willingness of people to hear and respond.

    Our Circuit is being encouraged to discover a greater confidence of faith in God and WCW has made a small contribution towards that. I look forward to seeing what other ideas you may have to keep the ball rolling!

Billy Slatter  

Best answer (not printed) to the JEP caption competition photo of Billy in the pulpit with an English flag hanging from the pulpit was from John Hunter;

‘Today’s sermon will be on the Sven deadly sins’ - his team selection was one of them! At the time of going to posting England are out and the winner will be either France or Italy

* *  * * * 

The solemn memorial services of the 90th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme on July 1st put World Cup hype in perspective.  A football field and the occasional red card is a far better place for conflicts between nations than the battlefield.

* * * * *

A footballing prayer (from the Methodist Recorder).

God of all nations,  May we be blessed with the gifts of a football team.

As goalkeepers may we keep out the fierce shots of prejudice, racism and greed, saving others from the penalties of poverty and disease.

Working together as a strong back four, may we defend the goal of fullness of life for the oppressed and vulnerable.

Grant us the versatility and stamina of midfielders that we may go wherever we are needed to support those in trouble.

Give us the creativity and vision of wingers, providing passes of encouragement to those who can make fairer laws and crosses of hope to those in despair.

When we are strikers, may integrity, justice and compassion be the goals we would score.

And when we are on the subs bench, keep us faithful, cheering on others and inspiring them with fresh belief and energy when we are called to put on our boots.

God of all our hopes and all our excitements may this World Cup see new friendships made, old hatreds dismantled and the richness and diversity of life celebrated by all people whatever the colour of their shirt. 

And may the best team win! 

Amen.

A helpful and hopeful way forward -

             the vision of the Superintendent

    A New Mission Statement for the Jersey Methodist Circuit is to be presented to a special circuit meeting on July 20th. It will help us move forward as a circuit with a greater sense of shared purpose.

    The statement has been prepared by the Circuit Leadership Team (CLT) following a great deal of careful thought and prayerful reflection across the circuit following acceptance of the Circuit meeting on June 10th 2004 of the consultation document ‘Shaped for Mission’..

    This document has proved to be a major stimulus for many circuit churches to reflect on the effectiveness of their life and has no doubt played a part in bringing three churches to see their future together in a new church, thus pooling talents, time and money.

    I have been present in the Circuit for most of the period of consultation which culminated in the special circuit meeting on February 28th 2006. I am aware of the tensions ‘Shaped for Mission’ has brought and the pain that some have felt because explicit in the document is the suggestion that in reshaping the circuit for mission a necessary element of that reshaping is for several churches ‘to cease to meet’.

    Although it has been argued that such a suggestion was demoralising ‘Shaped for Mission’ rightly disturbed complacency and many churches, though not wishing to take the option of ceasing to meet, have taken steps to reinvigorate their life and lift them above the model of simply keeping going, when all energies and resources are spent in maintaining the building and struggling to pay the assessment.

    The February 28th meeting revealed that within our churches are many who are not afraid of change and want to play a vibrant part in building up the life of the church and strengthening the community life of Jersey.

    I may be reading the mood wrong but I do believe that we have a circuit in which a great many people are not prepared to rest on their laurels or the laurels of a former generation but are willing to pick up the challenge to serve the present age - our calling to fulfil.   Reversing a century of decline is an enormous challenge but God in His grace and power gives us enormous resources. It can be done! The Statement does not specifically address issues of staffing numbers and finance although they are of significance and have not been ignored in our reflections.  It is hoped that with growing and more vibrant church communities, displaying confident faith in God and using resources creatively, lack of funds will not hinder our work.

Maintaining present staffing levels ( other than non stipendiary lay workers) are of course dependent on finance, our needs as compared with other parts of the British Methodist church and the availability of ministers.

The CLT is right in producing a Mission Statement which in my view offers a helpful and hopeful way forward. It is not without significance that we were led to use in the key part of the statement words such as ‘confident’ and ‘growth’. The Jersey Methodist Circuit unites fifteen churches.  The over arching structure of the Circuit allows and encourages mutual support and the mission statement provides a common framework and direction for the functioning of the individual churches. If accepted by the Circuit Meeting on July 20th it will provide us with a basis for circuit and local church strategies beginning in September 2006. Our aim is work cohesively together, building an atmosphere of mutual trust and confidence so that our calling will most effectively be fulfilled. David

Jersey Methodist Circuit Mission Statement

Our purpose is to build confident faith in God, to encourage Christian growth so that all may know God's love in Christ and to strengthen community life in Jersey.

 It will accomplish this by;

Encouraging all circuit churches to be open to sharing with other circuit churches and ecumenical partners creative use of resources.

Exploring the release of ministers and lay workers to work on the edge of church life, and supporting circuit wide and Island initiatives in prayer and evangelism.

Equipping people through training and teaching programmes to be more effective in discipleship, in leading inspiring worship and in sharing in other ministries within the church.

Engaging with and supporting all who work for better community relationships, respect for creation and the relief of poverty and need in Jersey and across the world.

Enabling new ways of reaching and relating to young people in the church and in the wider community.

 Here are two contributions to the debate, first Revd Liz Hunter and then Mr. Reg Jeune

Building confidence

    Conferences are funny things aren’t they?  They invariably mean having to travel off the island; they often cram as much information as can possibly be covered (and then more some) into the limited time available; and they leave you with copious leaflets and handouts to bring home with you.  But they also provide a great opportunity for networking with like-minded and often more experienced people; they enthuse and excite you as ideas are explored and discussed; and they stimulate new ways of thinking and looking at issues and problems.

       I experienced all these things recently when I attended the Building Confidence Conference on behalf of our District.  Organised by the staff of the Connexional Property Office in Manchester our time together had two main aims:  to encourage us to have more confidence in the ways in which we use and develop our buildings and explore new ways of being church; and equally to encourage us to build our confidence in what we believe and how we express our theology through our buildings and projects.

   Each District around the Connexion was represented and we were blessed by the company of both our President of Conference, Revd Tom Stuckey, and the Vice-President, Mr John Bell.

       To give you some idea of the challenges and ideas presented to us I would like to share the thoughts put forward in the closing address which was given by Helen Cameron.  Helen is Senior Tutor for an MA in consultancy for mission and ministry and is a member of the Salvation Army.  Her paper was based on the story of the Canaanite women in Matthew’s Gospel.

    Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, ‘Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.’ But he did not answer her at all.  And his disciples came and urged him, saying, ‘Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.’  He answered, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’  But she came and knelt before him, saying, ‘Lord help me.’  He answered, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.’  She said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.’  Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, great is your faith!  Let it be done for you as you wish.’  And her daughter was healed instantly.

Matthew 15: 21-28   NRSV

The way to build confidence has four main emphases:

    -    Learn something new

    -    Listen to what others are doing

    -    Try out new resources

    -    Get connected  stay connected

There are three stages to building confidence:

    -    Barriers

    -    Breakthrough

    -    Building

What are the barriers?  Well firstly, the gatekeepers.  The disciples were like gatekeepers, standing around Jesus preventing people from getting to him. ‘Send her away’ they pleaded.  And on other occasions too they tried to block the path of those wanting to initiate change in their lives, those responding to the challenge of Christ.  Often, when churches begin to discuss new ideas, fresh ways of expressing their faith, perhaps through music and new technology, or when the redevelopment is suggested, perhaps removing the pews or rearranging the worship area, it is the voice of the ‘gatekeepers’ who speak loudest.  The argument is often that it is too difficult to change a pattern that has gone on  for years. The gatekeeper might be very efficient at keeping people away but they might also unknowingly drive people out. The second barrier is silence.  When the woman spoke to Jesus he ‘did not answer her at all.’  When churches are trying to develop new areas of ministry, be that in human terms or through changes to their buildings, the suggestions can sometimes be met with silence.  If it’s not spoken about it won’t happen, sadly all too true.  Or worse, the silence occurs at the relevant meetings but then plenty of ‘unhealthy’ conversations take place away from the discussion forum and soon facts are muddled and integrity is lost.

    The third barrier is restating the status quo.  ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’  Once the gatekeepers are passed and a healthy dialogue established there is the danger, as has happened in many places, of the conversation simply bringing the church back to maintaining the status quo.  The ‘new initiative’ is actually a duplication of what was already happening.  It might look a little different but basically still meets the needs of a small church group and hasn’t moved beyond the comfortable safety of the ‘club’.

    However, once the barriers are crossed there is breakthrough and now the church community faces:

    -    challenge and   response

The woman challenged Jesus.  She didn’t give up but came ‘and knelt before him’.  And she got a response, her daughter was healed.  As churches seek to meet the challenges posed by the 21th century and the challenges posed by God we must respond in order to gain a response.  When this involves change, letting go of familiar things and embracing new ideas, it can be frightening and unnerving, but it can be exciting too.

 Building confidence is about:

    -    Being real.  Understanding something of the world around us, its needs and hopes, and identifying ways in which we might meet the community where it is.

    -    Being brave.  God never asks us to do more than we are capable of doing but we have to work at it.  New ways of being church won’t just land in our laps ready made!

    -    Go mutual.  We need to develop ways of sharing resources and expertise, both within Methodism and across the denominations and beyond.

    The Canaanite woman was real and brave and knew where to go for help and look how it changed her life.

Revd Liz Hunter

 Reg and Monica Jeune

Pictured on the diamond wedding anniversary cruise in the Caribbean in February

Ed Le Quesne has asked me to write a little of my views on the future of Jersey Methodism arising from recent discussions.  However, my first thoughts on the future of the Methodist Church dwell on the National Scene because the Connexion does not appear to wish to change or innovate.  It has been debating for years whether the President's period of office should be extended.  Of course it should, how can any person make an impact nationally, and throughout the Methodist Church, in one year, and in that year he or she has to tour the country and make a foreign trip, and attend countless meetings and functions.   It certainly should be three or even five years.

    The Methodist conference itself is an unwieldy body, a talking shop. Yet it makes so little impact nationally that it rarely gets a mention in the media.  There are other aspects I could comment on, but the Editor has asked me to consider the local scene

 SHAPED FOR MISSION -  A great title.

- But are we shaped and what really is the mission?

-  And a mission can be just fine words.

- So more importantly what exactly is the plan in order to achieve the mission.

    What would I suggest?  At present, Ministers are given responsibility for one or more churches, yet they are repeatedly planned to take services in other churches in the Circuit so it is with local preachers.  This has been correctly named in my view "The Hit and Run Ministry"   In order to have more leadership there must be greater concentration and continuity.

    In my judgement, our churches should be clustered - either a pastorate with one other smaller church, or a lead church with say 2 smaller churches. The minister in charge should have one or more local preachers to assist him or her, particularly assisting in the conduct of worship where say 2 services are held on a Sunday morning, such as a traditional, plus an all age worship. In other words there would be a team ministry operating, with the Minister leading assisted by one or more local preachers and where appropriate, a pastoral lay worker.

    I constantly hear over the circuit that ministers are not visiting. They plead they are too busy, but I believe the key to the future lies in organising our churches in a more effective manner, where people can feel they are cared for, and if they are absent someone knows and finds out the reason. Where a proper concentration of teaching can take place because there is continuity Sunday by Sunday.  Where it is possible Sunday by Sunday to have 2 different kinds of worship.

    Another advantage is that Churches could be more open and not closed for 6 days and opened on the 7th for an hour or two.  Very importantly, the Churches need to become part of the community and shaped to serve that community and where the minister is able to minister to his flock, and the community, and only rarely at another Church in the Circuit.

    This is important because we need to cater for people with different ideas for worship and this can be done with more leadership concentration.  Sadly I believe we have concentrated overmuch on closing churches rather than how can we organise our ministry and laity in order to make a more effective impact on the existing flock by particularly the Minister and also a greater impact on the local community.

    If the Circuit leadership team has a plan for the future which is rational businesslike and shaped for the future, let them declare it. Sadly, if it only means closing churches it could mean the loss of an Ordained Minister.   What a disaster.   The Law of Diminishing Returns!

R. R. Jeune

The Bridge to Eternity

  As part of his sabbatical last year, Rev. Kevin Jones expanded four articles he wrote for Headway magazine into a book.  Entitled ‘The Bridge to Eternity’ it expounds the letter to the Hebrews, which is a special book for Kevin.  The gospels, Acts and letters of Paul record directly the words and actions of Jesus and those who knew him.  Hebrews is a record of the attempts of the earliest Christians to understand the meaning of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.  The photo shows Kevin at Georgetown with a proof copy of the book, with a photo of the Humber Bridge on the front cover. It can now be obtained from the local Christian Bookshop in the Central Market, St. Helier 

Farewell from Rev. Kevin Jones

    People say some people are always looking back, remembering the former days with great affection and perhaps not a little nostalgia.  I expect Jersey over the years will become such a time for us.  I however find it very difficult to look back, because my natural tendency is to plan for the future.  If we are to achieve anything in this short life, (our six years in Jersey have gone in just a moment) we must have a vision of what God wants for us and we need to set goals along the way.  Looking forward is what keeps is both young at heart and excited.  Then when we do find a vision we need to make sure it is born of the heart of God and not simply our own heart.   

    It was a great privilege to be invited to work in ‘beautiful Jersey’. God clearly led us here.  It is true to say we have not always understood each other,  but we have sought to move forward in faith and vision.  For me there is no life like the life of faith, everything else we do will stop at the grave, but Faith, Hope and Love will live on into eternity.  In fact the Bible tells us that, ‘everything that does not come from faith is sin.’ Rom 14:23. 

    These have been busy and often challenging years for the Methodist Church in Jersey, with the covenant debate and Shaped for Mission, as well as the need to move from maintenance to mission, from being an inward looking to an outward looking Church, and from a pastoral to an evangelistic people, all being top priorities.

    I have tried to exemplify the great commission, Matt 28:19-20 ‘Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."  This means that every initiative over these six years has been based on either strengthening discipleship or mission.

    We have introduced consistent theme and team preaching, linked to the house groups. We have encouraged and led outreach and discipleship courses, such as Alpha, and the ‘Y’ course, marriage courses, prayer courses, and counselling courses.

    When an opportunity to benefit from larger mission opportunities has come we have tried to be deeply involved in each event.  Cliff College, Springboard, Walk Jersey, the Faith Mission and many others events, have been welcomed in our Chapels.

    Above all I have sought to be a preacher and teacher among you, to share a sense of enthusiasm and confidence (FAITH) in the God who still answers prayers through Jesus.  Some events have been wonderfully blessed and others were less helpful.  Yet in all these things we have begun to rediscover the good news that God has a purpose for our lives and for our Chapels.  We have begun to find new confidence in God and my prayer for the Methodist People in Jersey is that each will come to be confident in God's love in Christ, and then share it with others.  The few books I have published have been I trust, a means of building up the faith of some.  One final work ‘The Bridge to Eternity’ based on Jesus in the book of Hebrews, should be out before we leave in August. 

    Spiritual Renewal is the work of the Holy Spirit and is God's will for His church.  If we are God centred and bold it can happen here.  Growth will probably come one at a time and will I believe need to be nurtured through lively small groups.  As we leave for Southport Banks circuit, we thank you for the time we have shared together, we thank all who have shared our vision of the greatness of God and who have in any way encouraged us.  My closing message is ‘don’t give up, for God will never given up on you,’ but don’t leave renewal to God; He calls us to act in faith, and obedience to his word.  As ever it is when we step out in faith that God blesses. Remember the Church is the place where the Holy Spirit seeks to Reign, a preacher recently said, ‘the problem with the Holy Spirit is that he thinks he is God!’  When The Spirit is allowed to fill His people then renewal is imminent.

    To those who have worked with us in the Schools, Parish, other churches, or across the Island we say, God bless you, your kindness is remembered and we have been glad to be partners with you all.  Our last service is at Bethlehem on July 30th at 6.30pm we invite you to join us for that special occasion. May God be your strength, your guide, your song, and your delight! Rev Kevin Jones, Last Methodist Minister at Croix-au-Lion, AD 2000- 2006.

 Kevin in Uganda

     I first travelled to Uganda with Rev Keith and Mrs Anne Jarvis, visiting the Methodist Church & attending the Kabali convention.  We took substantial funds from the ACTS (African Christian training Services) charity to construct the next phase of the first Methodist primary school in Uganda.  The Methodist church is relatively new in Uganda, the first church being established in 1989 at Bugembi.   Since then the work has grown by one or two churches a year mostly centred round the second city of Jinja.  There are now 27 works in the Methodist circuit, which is still part of the Kenyan conference. 

    We visited the Methodist nursery schools & and saw the construction of the new Primary school.  The school is 2½ years old, seven classrooms were originally built and 250 children catered for.  When we arrived the numbers had grown to 967 children in the same seven classrooms; the money we took enabled the school to complete the ground floor of the new block. Whilst there I spoke at a youth meeting at Iganga, some 40 miles north and also to the central Methodist church in Bugembi.

    After five days, we travelled back to Kampala, and on to Rusheri, where we met Joan Hall former lecturer in theology at Durham University, now in her 80s and administrating the hospital there; she is a personal friend of President Museveni.  Then we travelled on to meet our Anglican brethren celebrating 70 years of revival in East Africa.  Perhaps up to 12,000 people were present at the convention; they came primarily to hear preaching on repentance and the cross.  The Anglican Church is by far the largest in Uganda with churches in every village and cathedrals in every large town. The concern of the people was always to live in the light of the cross. Reconciliation and forgiveness following the genocide in Rwanda and Burundi are key notes & the revival fellowship has much to teach in this healing process.  Alice who we stayed with lost here parents and sisters in that civil war.  Many towns and villages still have revival fellowships 70 years after the initial move of God.  They concentrate on confessing their faults and praying for each other.

    The ministry began on Thursday and concluded on the Monday, with up to five sermons translated daily.  It was a true preaching marathon, with Michael Cassidy, (African Evangelistic Enterprise), and Don Jacobs, (Mennonite Bishop), being the main speakers.  Though the initial revival was 70 years ago, there were still many who there who remembered revival and the rapid spread of the Christian faith across Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania.  

    There is much need in Uganda and I returned with the hope of providing some positive support for the Methodist work there.  There are opportunities to buy a bike £50, sponsor a child from £30 a month, contribute to a 4 wheel drive vehicle for the circuit, (So far £2000 out of a needed £4000 has been raised) or send Hymn books, Mission Praise One only!  If any wish to help please do contact me.  (See p. 13 for a Bible quiz used to raise funds for Uganda )

St Helier Unity Group are preparing to visit the village of Nyalkinyi in Western Kenya  in November with an ecumenical team of ten people, led by Dave and Betty Ellis.  A borehole has brought clean water to the village . The team will help to build a Health Centre and a house for  a doctor.  The team includes two Methodists, David Hicklin and Maureen Rayson.

Russian Choir at Georgetown

    ‘Thursday night is Music night’ changed to Friday night in June, when the St. Petersburg Blagovest Ensemble gave the concert.  Introduced by their director and conductor Olga Kozlova, the first half of their concert was Russian Orthodox sacred music and the second half was Russian folk songs. Right from the very first item, the power of their voices was incredible. Vitaly, Nikolay and Mikhail, tenor, baritone and bass each featured in solo items as did Nadezhda and Anastasia, soprano and mezzo-soprano.

    We could not understand the words but could understand the feeling they put into Psalm 103 and the Creed for example.  The souvenir programme gave us some idea of their content and said that this choral music is just re-emerging after 70 years of censorship in Soviet Russia.   The mood lightened with the  folk songs, but still the powerful, unamplified voices delighted the audience and they clapped along with the encore.

    Georgetown members had the additional pleasure of an introit and a repeat of Psalm 103 as part of their Sunday morning worship, which was attended by all 6 members of the choir.  Reg Jeune, our preacher, urged the 40 members present to try to match their volume in our hymn singing!.

    Jersey was nearly the last stop on a tour that started on April  29th in Bolton and went all over England and Wales, so they had sold out their collection of Russian dolls,  but I have a copy of their CD. We hope they will come back again next year.  Rowland has already made plans to invite them back and they had a few days of good Jersey weather and hospitality so we are hopeful.

    Don’t miss them!

Ed Le Quesne

 John Bell visit

John and Joan Bell

    John Bell, this year’s Methodist Vice-President, spoke to a group of about 30 people at Bethlehem on the Friday evening of his visit after a day that included meetings with the Bailiff, Chief Minister Frank Walker and senior members of the finance industry.  He said that he was a son of the manse and had spent all his working life in industry with an electronics company reaching very senior positions.  He chose to serve God in a lay capacity.  While public service such as medicine and education is a calling, so too is a calling to private service.  What does the church do to support people in their work?  Often not a lot, he said, answering his own question.

    He has found that the passion and skills he has used as a local preacher have helped him to put passion and skill into the presentations he made in his daily work. He recommended the publication ‘Time to talk of God’ as a help to bringing our faith to people we meet day by day.   He said he would rather make a colour TV than a cup and saucer.  However investing in, or working for, or accepting a donation from a defence company raises ethical dilemmas.

    He felt that if the church could see its mission to the world of work involved appointing chaplaincies, they would be ‘knocking on a open door’. There are now  chaplains in many Asda stores. They are available for customers and staff. They find that they get more questions about God in the stores than they do in the churches.  He says that a big company like Asda is not pushing for more Sunday trading.

    John encouraged us to take our faith into all aspects of our lives.  He commented that the church expects a great deal of its lay people, who do full-time day jobs then have evenings at church meetings.

    John also spoke at a service to receive the Easter offering  at Ebenezer on the Thursday afternoon and attended a Christian Aid coffee morning  at Communicare on Saturday morning before flying off to Guernsey.

Ed Le Quesne

Visit from Ian and Diana White

Photo by Martin Delap on the Sunday morning

    Ian White was the preacher at Georgetown’s 133rd anniversary service on June 18th.  He used their move to a house for retirement  in Newcastle as an example of moving on to fresh challenges rather than staying with the familiar.  It is what ‘Shaped for mission’ is calling for.

    The Sylviidae Male voice choir, conductor Robin Stubbs, and including Howard Le Cornu, son of the founder Florence Le Cornu sang the anthem ‘Sweet is the work my God, My King.’

    In the evening, Ian and Diana shared in a reflective service about the call to Discipleship.

    A number of people, particularly from St. Aubin, came to one or other of the services to renew friendship with Ian and Diana, who are looking very well. (Ian and Diana also smiled out of the front page of the Edinburgh Conference edition of the Recorder!)

Le Bénéfice is ready

      Provided there are no last minute hold-ups, the builders should move out on July 7th and the estate will pass into the ownership of the CTJ Housing Trust on July 14th.   We hope the tenants will all be settled in by mid September.  The photo shows one quiet avenue in the estate of 73 units.

    The allocation process began in March, showing interested people, many nominated by the Housing Dept, around. Then interview sessions were held at Georgetown by trustees David Letto, Angela Le Sueur and Ed Le Quesne.  It was an eye-opener to hear of some of the housing situations that people were in.  Inevitably a few were disappointed but we will house the majority of those who applied.

    The name chosen, Le Bénéfice, reflects the fact that a nearby field was once owned by St. Clement Parish Church and the income went to support the work of the church   Now we hope to build a community of people that live in harmony and mutual support with each other.

    Some people asked whether you had to be a Christian to live there.  You don’t, but our name ‘Christians Together in Jersey Housing Trust’ proclaims that working together with the States to provide good homes for families is another form of Christian witness in Jersey.

Ed Le Quesne

MHA JERSEY  QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

    Methodist Homes for the Aged are now using the additional trading name of MHA JERSEY. We are moving into more competitive and very fast changing times. It was agreed by The Board of Directors at their June meeting that we need to also continue updating our Homes and become more widely known in the island for the excellent care provided, at very competitive rates. We also need to re-emphasise that we accept residents of any religion, or none, and provide a very personal and homely environment for people in the later years of their life.

 MAISON LA CORDERIE  Matron, Liz Booth, 872454:

    The updating of the lounge, short stay rooms and bathrooms is nearly completed. The lounge has received many favourable comments and is becoming more widely used. The large tree that was located close to the balcony has now been felled and this has created a much lighter environment in the room. The finishing touches have been added and paintings/water-colours hung. In fact, whenever anyone makes a visit to the Home please take a closer look at these pictures, as we are fortunate in having some gifted painters in the circuit who have donated them. It may become a Hall of Fame at some time!

    The short stay rooms are ensuite and available for use on a weekly or longer term basis. Our rates are VERY competitive compared to other alternatives available in Jersey.

    One bathroom is completed and has a state of the art hydraulic bath. This enables staff to bring the bath up to waist level and will make bathing residents much easier. The first floor bathroom  should be completed in time for our  'Open Day'.

    We have also seen a very long serving member of staff retire this month (June). The Board held a retirement lunch at the Home for Judy Le Clercq with Judy’s two children present. Judy received a digital camera from the staff and residents. The Directors gave Judy a cash gift in recognition of  over 20 years loyal service. However, this now leaves us with an additional vacancy for an activities staff member. Matron is looking for someone who can give about 10 hours a week on a flexible arrangement. Please contact her for further details.

    Our "Open Day’ will be held on Saturday 5th August from 10.30 till 12 and again from 2.30 to 4.00.  Please come and see the service we provide. This is an open invitation to all, so please bring any interested family, friends or neighbours along. Additional parking will be provided close by. The directors would be delighted to see as many of you as possible. Full details from Michael Picot on 872454 or 852954.

STUART COURT- Matron, Jan Robinson, 726936:

    The Board are delighted to announce that at long last the plans for Stuart Court and Denehurst have been approved!  The dining room extension can now go out to tender and will provide much more space for our residents and also enhance the sea view as they take their meals. Also, the longed for additional and user friendly parking spaces will be built before we commence the above extension.

DENEHURST: Michael Picot- Administrator

    As with Stuart Court the plans for the conversion of the wonderful gift of this property from Mary Morel can at long last proceed. The Board have instructed their architect to come up with some exciting plans for each floor in this house to be converted into one-bedroom self contained flats. The three flats will be purpose built to provide up to date heat and sound insulation together with easy access for those with walking difficulties. Each flat has superb views of St. Aubin’s Bay and will also benefit from the lovely south facing garden and car parking. They will be rented out to couples who can live independently, but will have the choice at an additional charge to take their main meal at Stuart Court next door, should health reasons require. The only additional service that will be provided will be an emergency call system, to  summon assistance should they need urgent help night or day. This is a really exciting venture and takes MHA Jersey into the future with a much sought after additional service to our above two wonderful Homes.  We presently have a vacancy at Maison La Corderie and  some vacancies for short stay also. Michael Picot - Administrator

TEACH ME COURSE 2nd-4th Sept ‘05.

Pat Bougeard at Georgetown

    Last year I was very lucky to go to Winchester at ‘Old Alresford Place’ for a weekend course called Teach Me, designed for people who are interested in ministry in the Deaf Church.  Deaf as well as Hearing people are welcome to go on one condition, that they can fluently use B.S.L. British Sign Language! Teach me courses are annual, and are run by 3 or more Ministers who are Deaf themselves and are from various faiths.

    In Sept. 2005 I travelled to Southampton where my Deaf Friend picked me up and took me to Salisbury where they lived. On the way we went to Salisbury Cathedral, for a tour. This sounded very interesting till I realised that it meant climbing up to the spire and going to the top to look at the view.  For a moment I panicked as I have Vertigo and hate Heights!!!! Anyway nearing the top of the spire after going up countless numbers of steps, everyone was invited to go outside to which I said ‘I’m very happy being inside’!  Back on the ground we were all given a badge to say ‘Well done’ for climbing up Salisbury Cathedral!  I was so proud of my achievement and knew I could conquer my nerves and go to the course the next day.

    Old Alresford Place looked an amazing place as we drove up. I begun to get really scared and didn’t want to get out the car! Lots of people had gathered to see who was coming in, my legs turned to jelly and I went pale! My friends had to come in to settle me in to my room upstairs.

    The course started at 6pm with supper then the Rev. Dr Hannah Lewis discussed the topic ‘What is Prayer?’ It was very interesting and once I got to know her way of signing and relaxed I enjoyed mixing with everyone and was eager to learn more about the Deaf Church. People were surprised to learn that in Jersey there is a tiny Deaf Community and that there is no Deaf church or Ministers. I think I was really scared about not being able to understand the signing but I didn’t have to worry as I could follow nearly everything that was discussed. Some people thought I had grown up with sign language which was amazing as I really didn’t think I was the same as anyone else in the room.  I quickly made friends and at 9.30pm we shared in evening worship with Father Paul Fletcher. This was my first ever experience of a church service completely in B.S.L. It was so quiet but so powerful and I felt so moved and peaceful and it gave me the true meaning of being a Christian and to share my faith with others in the group. I wentto bed exhausted but happy!

    Day 2 started with morning worship at 8.00am then breakfast. I was never lonely as once people knew I was from Jersey it was always a topic for conversation! After we went to meet the 3rd Lecturer who was the Rev .Charles Dixon who gave a presentation on ‘The Lord’s Prayer’. At times this was amusing and I experienced my first deaf humour. Especially as when he signed was God talking about Granary or Hovis when we say ‘give us our daily bread’! He had us rolling around with laughter; his facial expressions were so funny. Using Sign language, Facial expressions are a large part of the language and I certainly knew when he was being serious or telling a joke!

    After, Father Paul talked on ‘Getting closer to God, personal Prayer’. This too had hilarious moments. When he asked the question of ‘what room in the house should we pray in’?  Suggestions were in the bath, Kitchen, utility room, bed room, lounge, toilet etc. We all discussed and decided that it didn’t matter where or when because God will always listen to us and at any time.

    In the evening, Rev Hannah talked on ‘new ideas for prayers in worship part 1’. It was interesting to see how visual the ideas were and also how to use different materials, textures, shapes and colours in worship. I found this very interesting and learnt many new things that I am keen to use in the future. Amongst other questions that were asked, this one was the most challenging and we were all silent as we didn’t know how to answer! ‘Is God hearing or Deaf’? ‘Is God a man or a woman’? After an open discussion Father Paul showed us meditative prayer time, spiritual exercises which help us to stay in touch with the Spirits to God. He showed us how we could relax and concentrate by repeating a specific word such as ‘JESUS’ and allowing God to love us. After that it was time to relax and go to bed!

    On the last day Rev Hannah did part 2 of ‘new ideas for prayers in worship’. This was focusing on how to use the ideas in the previous talks in a productive and challenging way. We then had feedback time and news of Deaf Churches around England. There was time to swap addresses too as we had all made new and firm Christian friends.  The last part of the course was awesome; I will never forget it as it was just so powerful. We had a Holy Communion service outside in the beautiful grounds, in fantastic sunshine. Wow!

    We were quickly put into groups to prepare for the different parts of the service using our own ideas or using Drama, Materials and most importantly Deaf Culture. I was in the 2nd group where we all signed a beautiful poem, saying over and over again whilst going into the middle and forming a small circle. My legs were shaking! It was very moving to be involved in such a strong Deaf community.  The ending was when the last group processed across the garden signing ‘Jesus Remember Me when you come into your Kingdom’.  Everyone joined in and the atmosphere was amazing, I have no words to describe what I felt, being part of the Deaf Church.  Then we were free to go!  I really didn’t want to go when Rev Robert Sanday came to pick me up!

    I want to thank everyone at Georgetown, Rev Chris White and the Circuit for all the support, encouragement and the faith they have given me and for having this wonderful experience and opportunity!  I now feel that this is the journey that I am going on with God and I look forward to the next step of this amazing journey!

Best Wishes from Pat Bougeard

Synod in Guernsey

 The C.I. Synod met at Les Camps in Guernsey on May 6th.  In the opening worship, Rev. David Coote asked for the touch of the Barnabas, giving hope in times  of change. Also Mrs. Di Toole was congratulated on her MBE. New Guernsey Supt, Rev David Hart was elected Deputy Chair of the District. The Chairman promised to sort out the confusion between circuit reps and synod elected reps.  The present system is not suitable for a two Island district. Rev. Liz Hunter was elected to be Conference representative for the next two years.

The Anglican Dean of Guernsey, the very Rev. Paul Mellor, spoke to the Synod with a very positive message about our churches working together to serve in the Islands. We had a visit from David Gamble, who explained some of the big issues facing the Connexion at the moment.  The Budget will be 30% less in 2008 than in 2005,  so 12 ground clearing projects have been set up to adapt our structures.  A new charities law might make each church a separate charity giving trustees a big responsibility.   New legislation about diversity, outlawing ageism and racism and  sexual discrimination also has implications for churches. We also have to consider whether we have too many buildings.  We need to be aware that we may have survivors of sexual abuse in our congregation and be careful in our language.  We need to allow a safe space for people to ask questions about matters of faith. Rev. Kevin Jones reported on his recent Sabbatical trip to Uganda. After a good lunch,  the people at Les Camps demonstrated some of the new technology that they use

Conference headlines

    Rev. David Coote was at Conference in Edinburgh at the end of June. Rev, Graham Carter was installed as President and spoke about the need to be committed disciples.  Mr. Dudley Coates was installed as Vice-President. In his address he said that Jesus lived in a messy and uncertain world and so are situations today.  But God so loved the world, as it is, not the Church. We need to be a pilgrim church taking the message out.  He has written a book called ‘Shades of Grey’  that expands his ideas.

Some decisions

Yes to Peacemaking;  No to Trident

    Addressing matters of life and death, the Methodist Conference commended a resource considering the ethics of modern warfare. Produced jointly by the Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church, Peacemaking: A Christian Vocation aims to help Christians reflect on Jesus' call to be peacemakers, love our enemies and pray for our persecutors.

    The Conference also voted to oppose replacement of the Trident nuclear weapons system when it comes to the end of its life in about 2025.  It urged the Government to take the lead in disarmament negotiations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty, working towards the ultimate intention of eliminating all nuclear weapons.

Call for all parties in Israel and Palestine to seek peace

    The Methodist Conference has voted to draw up guidelines on how to engage with corporations or activities that support illegal Israeli activity in the West Bank or Gaza strip companies, with disinvestments as the ultimate sanction. Conference called on the Israeli Government to halt any further settlement or construction in the West Bank and to immediately demolish the security barrier. It also called on Hamas and other Palestinian groups to recognise the State of Israel and to seek peaceful means to end of the occupation.

No lowering of 24 weeks abortion time limit

    The Conference reasserted that while there is never any moment when the foetus lacks human significance and it would wish to see an end to late abortions, there are serious concerns that need to be addressed before it can support a reduction in the time limit.

No blessing of Civil Partnerships in Church

    After a long and careful debate carried out in a respectful atmosphere, Conference confirmed the statement of good practice issued by the Methodist Council last December. While Methodist ministers may say private prayers with a couple in a Civil Partnership, the Church will not authorise a liturgy for blessing Civil Partnerships, and that Methodist premises cannot be used for any prayers for Civil Partnerships.

Ed Le Quesne

 Bible Quiz

There are 30 books of the Bible in this paragraph. Can you find them?

This is a most remarkable puzzle.  It was found by a gentleman in an airplane seat pocket on a flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu, keeping him occupied for hours.  He enjoyed it so much he passed it on to some friends. One friend from Illinois worked on this while fishing from his John boat. Another friend studied it while playing his banjo.  Elaine Taylor, a columnist friend, was so intrigued by it she mentioned it in her weekly newspaper column.  Another friend judges the job of solving this puzzle so involving, she brews a cup of tea to help her nerves.  There will be some names that are really easy to spot.  That’s a fact.  Some people, however, will soon find themselves in a jam, especially since the book names are not necessarily capitalised.  Truthfully, from answers we get, we are forced to admit it usually takes a minister or scholar to see some of them at the worst.  Research has shown that something in our genes is responsible for the difficulty we have in seeing the books in this paragraph.  During a recent find raising event which featured this puzzle, the Alpha Delta Phi lemonade booth set a new sales record.  The local paper, The Chronicle, surveyed over 200 patrons who reported that this puzzle was one of the most difficult they had ever seen.  As Daniel Humana humbly puts it, ‘The books are all right here in plain view hidden from sight’.  Those able to find all of them will hear great lamentations from those who have to be shown.  One revelation that may help is that books like Timothy  and Samuel may occur without their numbers.  Also keep in mind that punctuation and spaces in the middle are normal.  A chipper attitude will help you compete really well against those who claim to know the answers.  Remember, there is no need for a mad exodus, there really are 30 books of the Bible lurking somewhere in this paragraph waiting to be found.

There were 42 correct answers and winners were drawn from a hat.   Joyce Le Ruez won a Fair Trade food hamper and Gwen Wankling and Doreen Le Gresley received Presentation bibles. The quiz raised £154 for the Uganda fund.  If you can’t find all the answers, contact Mrs. Margaret Wickham !!

Book Review

The 100-Minute Bible  ed.  Rev. Michael Hinton

      As you all maybe well aware I have a passion for books.  However, I must confess that I have never read from cover to cover any copy of the Bible, probably the most fascinating book that I have.  I own at least 4 different translations ranging from the wonderful beauty (and often incomprehensibility) of the King James version to the specially adapted Street Bible, written in an effort to communicate with the ‘young people’. So when my Dad handed me a review from the Daily Telegraph entitled ‘The Bible for slow readers’  I was intrigued.

      Essentially, the 100-minute Bible is an abridged version of the books of the Bible that can be read in 100-minutes (give or take).  It provides a stripped down and quite prosaic synopsis of both the Old and New Testaments in a very mundane, but very readable format.  It has dispensed with all the chapters of genealogy and law in the Old Testament along with Ruth, Deuteronomy and Song of Songs, in favour of what is effectively a historical timeline of the books and their key messages.  In an interesting twist the Old Testament is encapsulated into 17 chapters and the New into 33  the emphasis has been skewed towards the life of Christ.  The four Gospels have been woven into a single narrative so you get a complete picture of Christ’s life and ministry, and this takes about 50% of the book.

     Despite a slight feeling of disappointment when I had finished, I would recommend this to all.  It is a good starting point.  I have a better understanding of the whole of the Biblical times and a reference point as to where to begin any further reading I wish to undertake.  I have a very great love of history and so the clarity of the timeline and the explanation of the various conflicts appealed to me.  The simplicity of the language make this a good tool for use by students (of any age but particularly for school projects).  The subplots (such as Ruth) have been removed or simplified so as not to cloud the main story.  It costs just £3 and so is an inexpensive way to encourage those new to Christianity, or those that are like me and have not been able to tackle the whole Bible.

     I think my disappointment stemmed from the fact that I felt that in the simplification of the original you lose the mystery and majesty that can be found within the Biblical writings.  It is a very straightforward and unambiguous book  but I have always enjoyed ambiguities as they cause me to think, discuss and explore my beliefs with others  which for us all can only be a good thing?

Helen Toole

With Rev. David Coote visiting Brazil as a Conference representative we print a further reflection on the visit of  Rev Oseias Da Silva

Oseias had a busy schedule of activities with gaps built in to allow him time to relax, study or explore the Island.  Oseias loved the natural beauty of the Island, borrowing Sonny Le Maistre’s bicycle or strolling the cliff paths of St. Mary. The café on Greve De Lecq harbour was a particular favourite for breakfast, which sometimes included hot chocolate with a slice of  chocolate cake. He was able to help with cider and black butter making.

    He had high regard for the Ministerial staff and enjoyed their company but noticed the heavy administrative workload they carried, with the large number of Churches serving a small geographical area. In San Paulo there are more ministers than churches providing more opportunities for outreach work, a situation I’m sure our hard-pressed Ministers would relish.

    He was always reluctant to criticise when asked his opinion on the way Methodism operates in Jersey. His main thrust, shared by many of us, is the need to work in and alongside the community in which our churches operate.

    His experience in Jersey was in contrast to his home city of San Paulo in Brazil where his church provides meals for five hundred people per day as well as offering other social services to the community. He visited the Citizen’s Advice Bureau and other facilities that fulfil the role historically provided by the Church but now provided by charities or the States. Whilst impressed with the level of social provision in the Island he was concerned that people do not look to the church for help to the same extent as in Brazil, making the work of mission in the community more difficult.

    Oseias’s extended stay in the Island gave  us the chance to share a deeper experience than normally provided by an Overseas Mission Delegation. It would be difficult to find better a better house guest, a view shared by Sonny and Di Le Maistre. Many thanks to Linda and Chris Haines for all the hard work in organising the visit

 Martin Le Boutillier

Desiderata

    Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly;  and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.

    Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.   Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

    Keep interested in your own career, however humble;  it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.   Exercise caution in your business affairs;  for the world is full of trickery.  But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;  many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.

    Be yourself.  Especially, do not feign affection.  Neither be cynical about love;  for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.   But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.  Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.  Beyond a wholesome discipline,  be gentle with yourself.

    You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you,   no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

    Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labours and aspirations,  in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.   Be cheerful.  Strive to be happy.

 Max Ehrmann, Desiderata, Copyright 1952. 

 This lovely reading was used at a funeral recently.  Not explicitly Christian but with much spiritual truth.

Ebenezer and 'three churches' Summer update.

    Since the decision that Ebenezer, Eden and Sion will merge the 3 churches are now working much closer together in order to build up a relationship as one family for the ' new church '.

    We have now had a number of joint services at each church and this is helping to bind us together as one church for when we finally merge at the Ebenezer site.  We also join together, and also St. Martin, for Bible Study and Music Makers sessions. The Music Maker sessions are run by Pauline Slatter and are open to anyone who just enjoys singing. We practice hymns from Songs and Fellowship and helps us to build up our knowledge of some wonderful new songs. We break for coffee/tea halfway through which makes it a very sociable and enjoyable gathering. Again this is open to anybody, further details available from the stewards at the 3 churches.

    On Liberation Day we had a combined Parish Service as an act of celebration and Ursula Taylor gave a very interesting address. This is a permanent annual fixture at Ebenezer. Our commitment as a return, is for Ebenezer to close on Trinity Sunday and join our fellow parishioners at Holy Trinity Church.  However, due to the continued success of our Family Worship Service is was decided that any young families who would prefer attend a family service would receive an open invitation to join our sister church at St. Martin for their very special ' World Cup Worship' service. (see front page)

    Our next big occasion is our Annual Open Air service on the 16th July. This is a Family Service and we will be joined by our friends from Eden and Sion. Due to the larger number of people coming this year, we have changed the venue to the field behind Trinity Parish Hall. Billy hopes to preach from the back of a lorry and the service will follow with a BBQ. If you would like to join us then please telephone any of the Ebenezer stewards for tickets. There is a small charge to cover the cost of the meat and ladies of the churches will provide their usual delicious deserts.  A great family day out please come and join us.

    We also have a christening in August and hope that there will be more to come as the number of young families attending our Sunday Family Service increases. This has been a really exciting venture and is now firmly established each Sunday being very much enjoyed by the young and not so young alike. There will be a break during the Summer months but the 2 service format will be back from September.

    Jeannie Richardson's parents and babies play group 'Pickles' has now been firmly established and will be closing for the summer months. Jeannie is taking a well deserved holiday but hopes to organise some gatherings at Millbrook Park and/or on the beach during our hopefully long and hot summer.' Pickles' returns in force from Friday 15th September and has room for more. Call her on 878999 for more information.

    Please continue praying for the 3 churches, as we take further steps towards a successful merger and any obstacles that come along our way. Michael Picot

News from June issue of Connect,  monthly newsletter of St. Martin, edited by Ian Barette.

    Bible study is now at the manse, 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, currently studying Acts.

    Tim du Feu and Ruth Labey are looking for someone to take over as Sunday School Superintendent and also looking for more teachers. There will be an Away Day at the Biarritz Hotel from 10 till 4 on Saturday Sept. 30th  Everyone in the church is invited.

    Stewards are Eveline Le Seelleur, Di le Maistre, Ray Le Cornu, Donald Reid and Tom Perchard and they meet regularly with Billy Slatter to discuss a variety of large and small items.

News from St. Helier Methodist Centre magazines

    On April 22nd, Martin John Nicholls gave another great performance of his songs and stories, revealing a burning desire to see God’s justice come to this world.  It was just the thing to lead into Christian Aid week.

    A dozen members joined the Rotary Liberation Walk and raised £926 for the Esperado Children’s Haven and the Kenya project at Nyalkini.  SHMC children are sending letters to children in the South African Home.

    Nine young people from SHMC, 5 from St. Martin and 3 adults including Maureen Rayson, held a 24 hour fast in May.  Starting with a meal at Jersey Bowl at noon on Saturday, then games and a talent show at the SHMC youth room.  On Sunday morning one of the Fasters was baptised, the Junior Church session was on  Food and Fairtrade before a welcome lunch and £400 raised for Christian Aid.

    At the end of May, Geoff Wilson left his job after over three years as Warden of the centre.  He has been a helpful and hardworking presence.  His wife Sue remains in charge of the Nursery.

    A Beach party was held on Bel Royal beach after the Family service on June 25th, with a sandcastle competition, music and games.  All who have had some link with the church were invited.

    Mrs. Shelley Rose has been appointed Community Link Worker, starting in mid-June.  She is a member of St. Matthew’s church, mother of four and studying to be a lay reader.  She has a social science degree and a diploma in health and social care. She will be helping SHMC to expand its mission into the town community.

    Roy Picot reports on a recent return trip to Sydney, Australia and admires the work of the Uniting Church (Meth/Pres/Cong)  which is active in the community.

    A website www.shmc.ik.com  has been set up by Russ Reed, but he is soon to return to the UK with wife Donna and son James.   It is a good start with photos of the building and Liz Hunter but needs someone to complete it and keep it up to date.  At the moment it says that  ‘ .. xx people attend worship on Sunday’

    Flower making is well underway at Nance and  David Hicklin’s home for this year’s Battle of Flowers entry.

Gorey reunion lunch

    Former members of Gorey met at Ransoms Garden Centre for lunch recently. They have settled at several different churches, Alan and Dorothy Colback at Samares, Tom Nicholas and Bert Vasse and their wives at La Rocque, Geoff and Freda Nowell at Georgetown in the evenings and St. Helier in the mornings. Muriel Le Gresley has returned to St. Martins. The Le Feuvres split their worship between Bethesda and the local Parish Church.  Barry and Pam Goodland attend the fortnightly service at Maison Le Corderie and worship at Georgetown when they can.  Rev. Chris White attended the lunch and reports that it was a very positive experience, helping everyone to feel a sense of togetherness.

 Valerie Le Vesconte died in June.  Her funeral at Sion was conducted by Rev. Arthur Mignot of Alderney.  He explained that Valerie’s great-grandfather farmed at Tourgis Farm nearby.  The next brother moved to Alderney and was Arthur’s great-grandfather.  The family had built the original Sion a short distance away from the present site.  The present building was erected to cope with larger numbers.  A large number attended the service, which Valerie had prepared herself.   Her nephew Philip spoke affectionately of Valerie’s generosity with cakes and garden produce and the care she had given to many in the family.

 Donald De La Haye, treasurer at Sion for a number of years also died recently.

 Rev. John Farley, minister at Sion and Superintendent of the Jersey circuit some years ago died early in May.   A book of his sermons is due to be published soon so watch this space.

 Forthcoming events

Saturday 7th October at St. Martin

John Hardwick, regular worker at Spring Harvest and Easter People will be running a training session for people who work with children.  There will be a children’s tea and praise party to apply the ideas you have learnt.  On Sunday October 8th, John will conduct the family service at St. Martin.

 Friday April 20th to Sunday April 22nd 2007

Rev. John Bell in Jersey.  The man who  inspires and writes much of the Iona worship material.  Circuit events will be planned.

 Items for the October issue should be sent to Ed(itor), 16, Millais Park, St. Helier, JE2 4RU by September 20th.  E-mail edleq@jerseymail.co.uk