MAREE AND BOB FARRIMOND'S STORY SO FAR!!
*Maree, during a break at the Local Preachers weekend in Guernsey, smiling
as usual !!

As many of you may know I (Maree) have been training for ministry during
the past four years. When we came to the island in 1997, I was half way
through the Local preacher's course, which I completed in 1999. Many of you
shared in my Accreditation Service in December of that year. Just prior to
that, I had taken the first steps towards further training, having struggled
through many sleepless nights wrestling with what I believed was God's call
to ordained ministry. However about that time, Bob was made redundant from
the firm with whom he had had a successful career for 22 years, which meant
we were faced with future uncertainty and insecurity. We decided to stay in
Jersey, particularly as our son Stuart was settled and doing well at
Hautlieu School, and after six difficult months, Bob began the best job he
has ever had at the Highlands Hotel as Deputy Manager 'the Christian face
of the management team.'

We moved out to Corbiere, and I continued to work for Boots as a part-time
pharmacist. I was also able to do a small amount of lay-work with the
Communicare congregation, as well as distance learning studies, for a
diploma in 'Ministry and Mission' based at Sarum College Salisbury. My call
to presbyteral ministry was affirmed through the Candidating procedure in
April 2001, after which I became a Student Minister. I continued with the
'day-job' moving into more locum work as a pharmacist and the course
continued at Salisbury. This means weekly tutorials here in Jersey, weekend
visits to college every 6-8 weeks and then a residential week during Holy
Week each year. This summer is the completion of the diploma, AND also
stationing in September 2003.Which is where we are now!

Sadly we will be leaving Jersey this May, before we move to Caldicot, a
small town in Monmouthshire, in September. We have visited our new location,
which is between Bristol and Cardiff, on the Welsh side of the Severn Bridge
and have seen two of our three churches. One is the central town Methodist
Church on the shopping precinct, with a membership of 138, and quite a lot
of activity in the modernised building. The second is also a modernised
chapel, but this has a membership of 16, and in the middle of a large
council estate, which has little in the way of facilities other than a
school and post office; and a large unemployment problem looming. We were
made very welcome by many of the congregation who turned out to greet us,
and drank lots of cups of tea!!! We are looking forward to whatever God has
called us to in Wales.
It will be difficult to leave here, as we have made so many good friends
and this is a beautiful part of the world, but as I look back I remember
when we arrived both of us had a sense of being 'sent here for a purpose.' I
now believe that purpose was to receive nurture and support as we were being
guided along this new direction in our lives. We thank God for the love and
kindness we have received from so many of our Christian family both at
Bethlehem and throughout Jersey and pray for a greater awareness of the Holy
Spirit in all his people so that others may see and turn to Christ.
Blessings, 
Maree and Bob.
P.S. If you wondered what is happening to us between May and September, we
are planning a world-wide trip to South Africa, Australia, Thailand,
Scotland, Canada and USA. Having the Sabbatical before we start!!!

The Anglican-Methodist debate
The very last question, 'What are we voting for?' put by Hugh Lince,
summed up the confusion still felt at the end of the 90 minutes of
discussion among over a hundred people from round the circuit that met at
St. Aubin on Feb. 11th. The simple answer is 'Yes' or 'No' to a Covenant
Statement containing 7 affirmations and 6 commitments, first at Church
Councils then at circuit, synod and finally, at Conference in June. Our rep
is Mrs. Enid Quenault.
The doubts were strongly expressed by Kevin Jones, who called it a 'once
in a generation' issue. He focussed particularly on commitment one, which
looked forward to an organic unity. He felt the C. of E. could only change
a limited amount and it would mean loss of Methodist identity. He also
foresaw problems in commitment six to a fully united ministry, with the
Anglicans likely to insist on ordination by a bishop in the apostolic
succession and problems with the administration of communion. He also cited
the example of Australia where the uniting church had got smaller after
joining together.
However Chris White spoke in favour of the covenant, stressing the
variety within the Anglican church from the incense at 'High Church' St.
Lukes, to the more informal style at 'Low church' St. Clements. He felt
the role of women and of bishops were still being debated within the C. of
E. and there was no master plan for the final shape of a united church. He
felt it was a good thing that we were talking to each other.
From the floor, Iris Le Feuvre asked if it was like an engagement, we
make a commitment now but can decide it is not for us at a later date.
Debbie Godefroy wondered whether they would accept women ministers as
bishops. Chris White was optimistic that the C. of E. would catch up with
Anglican churches overseas who already do.
Malcolm Salmon focussed on how the role of a deacon would be different. It
is a lower order of ministry in the C. of E.
Caroline Homan said that the life of the church should be about serving
people. In South India, which has had a united church for 50 years you, can
often tell which denomination a church was originally but the focus of the
church was outside its doors. Daniel Wimberley, with his Christian Aid
hat, stressed the excitement in working together as churches to serve
others.
Jonathan Voak asked whether the moves to join together were management or
spiritually driven. In reply Kevin said that Methodism was about 60
ministers short while Anglicans were many more short. Chris White said
that in a previous circuit he had spent a long time in his car, driving
between widespread churches.
Simon Godefroy wondered whether young people were informed about the
proposals and Mary Richardson wanted every person in the Methodist church to
be balloted. Chris White reminded her that there is no such thing as a
perfect church. Henry Le Ruez voiced a common worry, that Methodists are
making all the changes while the C. of E. are making none.
Overall, it is clear that Methodists have given the Covenant much more
consideration than the Anglicans. Whether the vote is a cautious 'Yes, but'
or a doubting 'No. not yet' the important thing in Jersey is to work closely
with our nearest Anglican church in serving the community in ways suggested
by the Springboard exercise, As we serve together we may grow together.
Ed Le Quesne

Some facts and figures
The Church of England's 44 dioceses cover England, the Isle of Man and
Gibraltar. But the Methodist Church in G. B. also covers Scotland, Wales,
the Channel Islands and Malta. The C of E is larger with 1.2 million on
its electoral rolls, compared with 300,000 active Methodist members. There
are about 11,500 ordained C of E clergy, compared with about 2,100 ordained
Methodist ministers (including deacons). The C of E has some 16,000 parish
churches and chapels, compared with 6,000 or more Methodist churches.
This means that in the C of E there are 1.4 churches per ordained
minister, compared with 2.8 in the Methodist Church. But as C of E churches
average 75 members, and Methodists average 50, there are 104 members to
every member of the C of E clergy, but 142 to every Methodist minister. In
the C of E, the diocese and the parish form the basic units. For Methodism
the circuit, equivalent to an Anglican deanery, is the basis of ministry.
With so large a number of churches, it is not surprising that in some
Methodist circuits as many as 85 per cent of services are led by local
preachers, of whom there are about 10,000. In many ways they are similar to
the 10,000 Readers in the C of E, but with a more prominent role.
IAN YEARSLEY Church News Service
(first printed in Bethesda News)
Springboard - a success story so far
Early indications are that the Springboard initiative is proving to be a
real benefit to the churches. In St. Helier, the churches have met and
mapped the town and held at least 2 meetings where people from the community
have spoken about the needs of the Town as they see it, and about 80 people
from the churches have come to listen. In St. Saviour, the first
Springboard meeting on Feb. 12th had seven speakers and it coincided with
the report on children's services in Jersey prepared by Kathy Bull and
widely publicised in the media. There are real problems around us in our
two-tier materialist society, with many people having to do more than one
job to meet their rents. This is having a big effect on the children.
The really important stage is the third one of discernment, deciding where
our resources of premises, people and money can best to used to serve our
local community. We hope that by Pentecost we can have decided on some firm
proposals to put into action.
In our next issue we may be able to report in more detail on these plans.
Hopefully other parts of the circuit are also meeting with their Anglican
and Catholic counterparts. It might also mean that people who move across
the Island for worship will join the group where they live rather than where
they worship. Springboard should be truly local!

Amos Group report
Some problems in Jersey need political action, for example the reduction of
housing qualifications.
In their response to the consultation paper on PAYE, the Amos group
have proposed a balanced approach. We should bring contract and seasonal
workers into the tax system, by monthly deduction of 1/12th the expected
annual tax from their pay cheques. But we should also make clear that they
are entitled to the same as Jersey residents for health and welfare
benefits.
We have also strongly supported the ending of tax relief on interest
payments for all except the person's main residence. We will keep a close
watch on the proposals that finally emerge from F.& E. Come and join us to
find out more!.
Ed Le Quesne

Farewell to Galaad
On a cold, clear Jan 8th evening, a large congregation, representing all
churches in the Circuit, gathered to give thanks for the witness of people
for over 170 years at Galaad. Rev. Chris White led the service and preached
on the story of Jesus encouraging Peter to walk on water from Matt. 14 v.22.
He commended the people of Galaad and First Tower for their faith in moving
forward as The Bay Methodist Church. As he spoke, each member of the
congregation held a lighted 'night-light' candle. They flickered, they
melted, they got quite warm but they stayed alight, symbolising the fragile
but firm faith by which we walk. Two lanterns were lit and were carried
into the first service on Sun. Jan 12th of the Bay Methodist Church, the
Covenant Service, to mark the continuity of witness. Also transferring are
some of the congregation, the Communion glasses and hymn books. Letters of
greeting and support from Rev. Ian White, David Rondel in Athens and some
Methodist churches were read.

*The choir, mainly from First Tower, led the hearty singing. Prayers of
intercession were led by Rev. Derrick Mellor and included prayers for
peace.
For me the moment that brought a tear to the eye and a lump to the
throat was the singing of the verse that has ended all services held at
Galaad.
May God's blessing surround you each day
As you trust Him and walk in His way
May his presence within
Guard and keep you from sin
Go in peace, go in joy, go in love.
So many lovely people, living and died, I have known at Galaad. I am sure
that their faith will continue to shine in new ways as this part of their
way ends.
* As a final generous offering we were met by a magnificent spread in the
schoolroom to go with a cup of tea or coffee after the service.
Ed Le Quesne
Postscript
When I took the service at The Bay on Feb. 23rd, I found a joint
congregation that ended their worship with the Galaad verse, as well as
continuing to sing the Lord's Prayer as First Tower used to do. Good
things from both are continued!

The Le Cornu family
The Methodist Recorder of Jan. 9th announced the appointment of Ms
Alison Le Cornu as head of the Wesley Centre, Oxford. She is currently
director of Open Learning at the London Bible College. The Wesley Centre -
an expansion of the former Wesley and Methodist Studies Centre to include
distance learning programmes in adult theology and Christian studies -
remains a focus within Oxford Brookes University for a wide range of Wesley
and Methodist studies, including specialist scholarship and ministerial and
lay training. Alison is the daughter of John and Florence Le Cornu of
Samares. Their son Howard is our new Harbourmaster.
Local Preachers Weekend
* A dozen Jersey preachers joined their Guernsey colleagues at Les Cotils
Centre on the hill above St. Peter Port on 14 / 15th February. The speaker
was Clive Marsh, who is secretary of the Faith & Order Committee of the
Methodist Church, the first lay person to hold that post. He teaches
theology part-time at Sheffield and is house husband to Jill, a full-time
Methodist minister, and their two children, footballer Philip (12) and
gymnast Hannah (10).
His major point was to stress the excitement of doing theology. He has
often found recently retired people get very angry when he runs an
introductory theology course for them. He does material that has been
standard for years in University theology departments and his students are
angry that they have been 35 or more years in church and have only been
exposed to a simplistic exposition of the Christian faith.
Clive has recently written a book called 'Christianity in a post-Atheist
Age' which sets out his case for an approach to faith which takes our modern
world seriously. It sets out 95 theses or discussion starters to
stimulate discussion. We looked at some of them during the weekend. For
example, we need to be honest about our present day context where we are
all consumers and live in a secular society with a legacy of bad religion
(forced to attend Church and Sunday School) and yet with a boom in
spirituality. There are a variety of labels for people, catholic, liberal,
evangelical etc which go across denominations, and we need to be grounded in
a particular tradition. None are perfect. Christianity is not for solitary
believers. It should be challenging as well as cosy. There should be a
variety of approaches to worship and time for reflection too. Many people
can make valuable contributions to theological discussions and find it
exciting,. 
In 3 groups we tried to write a Christian answer in 4 sentences to the
question 'What does it mean to be human?. The groups were given resources
from scripture, from tradition and from experience and had three sessions to
refine their answers. For example, a card with the statement 'If you had
to describe the human race, which words would you choose? a) Basically
good or b) basically bad or c) equally good and bad provoked a range of
responses and led to much discussion about original sin and redemption.
Each group's final poster has not ended the thinking about what it means to
be human. We have been encouraged into new ways of studying theology.
Reading Clive's book I have personally been much encouraged to use the
words 'liberal' and 'Protestant' about myself and to continue to work with
people of any denomination or none in meeting the social and political
challenges of today's world through Oxfam, Amos and other groups.
On a very cold Saturday afternoon several of us joined the peace vigil
outside the Town church for a few minutes. On the Sunday morning we
attended a Communion service at St. Peter Port Methodist Church. We used
Ordinary service 2, with sung responses. Clive preached on 'The
imperfection of human knowledge' based loosely on John Wesley's sermon,
reinforcing the message of the weekend.
We are grateful to Deacon Malcolm Salmon for making all the arrangements
and to the staff at Les Cotils for excellent catering.

Ed Le Quesne

* * * * * 
A lady, describing the small attendance at her church, said: ' When the
vicar says 'Dearly Beloved', I blush ! '

Cedric May 

Sark has a Deacon and I am happy to hold that post. It is a very
suitable appointment in a situation where there is a tiny worshipping
community and the work in the chapel is only a small part of the work I find
to do. 
I taught French for 25 years at Birmingham University, then had a very
fulfilling second career as a Deacon in Yorkshire. Now I am retired and
live alone on Sark. (I travel every three months or so to Yorkshire to spend
time with my wife, who is looking after our dog and helps with our three
grandchildren who live nearby.) This gives me lots of time for prayer as
never before. As I work part-time, I have time to do some gardening and
look after the grounds of the chapel and do odd jobs around the place. I
also teach in Sark School and run a small after-school club. I enjoy the
outdoors - which is very present with us in this beautiful island. I am
given gifts of fruit, cake, fish and mushrooms, and I enjoy entertaining. I
have an adult French class which meets at the Manse, which is more a social
event than a serious study session. I sing with the Praise Group and join
anything going, especially the Sark Singers and the Sark Musical Society.
Life is very good. Our loving God is a rock and shield.
You are never lonely if you are a Deacon. The Diaconate is a warm and
supportive scattered community of followers of Christ seeking to serve Him
in a way He suggests. Deacons don't stand on their dignity. Nothing is
too menial. But we are not doormats. We defend the honour of Christ. I
believe that the Diaconate is an experimental form of ministry particularly
suitable for the 21st century in an age when structures of authority are
questioned and uniforms can be off-putting.
Most of my work is engaging in pastoral visiting. How can we call it
work? My position opens doors. It helps smooth away any awkwardness with
the bereaved and the lonely. We talk, sit in silence, laugh and grumble,
eat and drink, pray and sing, and, in the gaps, out come those confessions
of faith which seems so natural.
And I am an ardent ecumenist, which helps. My Anglican colleague is a close
friend and I'm in St. Peter's as often as I am in Sark Methodist Church.
Deacons are the people of the margins and Sark is just one of those margins.
Sark needs a minister and we need your prayers.
Amended version, first printed in the C.I. District Newsletter for
Women's Network, October 2002.
Cedric attended the Local Preachers weekend in Guernsey in February. In the
introductory icebreaker, he gave his name as 'Saucy Cedric' and he proved to
be very enjoyable company who took a full part in the sessions until he had
to catch the boat back to Sark after lunch on the Saturday.
Ed Le Quesne 

Jersey Homeless Outreach Group(JHOG)
The group started in 1996 as part of the International Year for
Eradication of Poverty. The first chairman was Dr. Margaret Bayes of the
Soroptimists, and the present chairman is Rev. Geoff Houghton, whose church
at All Saints quite often has the homeless literally on the doorstep.
A team of 2 people, always including one paid worker from Shelter, and
often volunteers, go out with warm drinks and sandwiches every night of the
year, from about 9 till 11 p.m. They visit places such as Patriotic St.
and Green St car parks where people are known to sleep rough. As well as
material help they also talk with the people and offer non-judgemental
advice about any problems they face in getting back into the community.
In 2001, 130 different people were contacted on this outreach, including 20
women. 
The work is supported by a grant from Health and Social Services and
gifts from churches and individuals. In 2002 we were one of the
beneficiaries of the ITEX walk. Local firms have been very generous in
providing sandwiches etc for distribution. Recently we have been given a
Renault Kangoo vehicle by a charitable trust. This means that we don't have
to ask volunteers to use their own cars. The vehicle is being fitted with a
microwave and other equipment to make it easier to provide food and drink.
The present Governor, Sir John Cheshire, has taken a close interest in
our work and has been on Outreach with his wife and Margaret Anne O'Brien,
our co-ordinator, on one night shortly before Christmas in each of the past
two years. 
A service, led by Rev. Geoff Houghton, at All Saints just before
Christmas remembers those known to the Outreach team who have died in the
past year. This has been much appreciated by those who come to remember
their friends. 
In Jersey in the last 6 years a structure has been put in place that
offers a fresh start to people who find themselves homeless. The next,
harder step is to address the underlying reasons that cause people to become
homeless. One major reason is addiction to alcohol and other drugs which
causes loss of job and breakdown of relationships. There is much to be done
to encourage a responsible approach to drinking especially with young
people.
A second reason is the lack of support to people released from prison
and lack of facilities for gaining life and work skills while in prison. A
recent JEP headline revealed the lack of computers at the prison for
monitoring the needs of prisoners. It reminded us that punishment 'lock 'em
up and throw away the key' and lack of investment in facilities, e.g.
recreation areas and chapel turned into accommodation, has been the general
attitude in the past. The new prison governor, Mike Kirby and Home Affairs
President, Wendy Kinnard are committed to changing this emphasising early
intervention and the rehabilitation of offenders.
A third reason may be a weakening of family and social support networks
so that the downs in life, such as bereavements cause despair.
Ed Le Quesne Secretary of JHOG
*
Margaret Anne O'Brien, JHOG co-ordinator & John Hodge, Shelter manager, with
vehicle 
John Hodge writes:
When someone becomes homeless, the first few days and weeks are a
critical time for that individual and those working with him/her. At this
time, a person's circumstances can be stabilised, a proper assessment of
needs can be made and a view of the future broached.
The Shelter Trust is now raising funds to build, 'fit out' and furnish
new accommodation to provide individual rooms at Kensington Place.
Residents will no longer have to turn up at 7.30 in the evening to claim a
bed in a room sharing with 1, 2 or 3 others. This will massively improve
the life chances for homeless people in Jersey. It will also afford
resident and staff the time and space required to work on the underlying
reasons which have led residents to being homeless.
The support offered to the Shelter Trust by the Methodist community has
already made an enormous difference. Now Shelter is seeking support for this
new venture. The aim is to see residents for as short a time as possible
and never see them again! The Trust's ability to do its work effectively
is contingent upon resources, which are few while the demands on them are
many. 
If you would like to help with fundraising, to ensure some of our
community's most vulnerable individuals are not forgotten, please contact
Ed Le Quesne on 730131.

Lay Workers in the Methodist Church in Jersey
The Methodist Church has for over two centuries relied on the caring
voluntary work of its circuit and church stewards to keep its churches open
and staffed. Recently there has been an increase in lay workers, paid an
honorarium or just expenses. In the following pages we have asked a
number of people, who have been appointed to particular roles in a church to
describe what they do and its highs and lows in their own words.

Pat Tourtel
* Sometime in the late 1980s when the details of Ministers in Local
Appointments came through to Jersey, I toyed with the idea of training for
the ministry, mainly so that I could remain in the Island. I soon
realised that I would have difficulty coping with the study and by the time
I had finished the training I would be able to serve for too short a time to
make it a worthwhile exercise. It was then suggested that I became a
Pastoral worker which meant I could continue with local preaching and also
be involved in helping the minister with the routine visiting, leaving him
freer to deal with the urgent and emergency cases of crises and the
preparation for marriages, baptisms, funerals etc.
At a Service for the Reception for new members I was commissioned and
agreed to work approximately eight hours a week. Although I have a
contract I am unpaid but receive travelling expenses.
I find it a privilege to be able to visit members in their homes or in
Hospital or Residential Homes, to share something of their problems, their
difficulties as well as the highlights in their lives.
For the past two years I have attended the Lay Workers' Conference at
High Leigh Conference Centre in Hodderston, Herts. where I find it very
interesting and beneficial to meet with others and learn about their various
roles in the church and community.


Danny Desbois
The last time I wrote something for The Jersey Methodist was in
connection with Cliff College 97/98 as a student planning to do my second
year course. During the article I explained my uncertainty of where God was
leading, however being confident that God had a plan. Since my return I
resumed my previous role as sales assistant until such a time as the
position of Youth and Community Worker became available at Samares. The date
was 1st October 2000 where an informal commission was held at Samares during
the service by Rev. Ian White, later becoming a formal occasion at
Philadelphie with other lay workers.
Becoming a lay worker for the church appeared exciting, just like doing
mission all the time, having the prospect of reaching out to the community
with the gospel and being paid a monthly salary for 25 hours per week.
Incredible! However, the position was more difficult to adapt to than
anticipated. From working full time to part time and in a team to being
alone, having to create my own timetable, instead of being instructed of the
tasks to be done. Thankfully, this is now easier. To begin with I shadowed
Rev. Chris White to establish links within the community, which still remain
at present. The majority of the work includes school assemblies at Le Squez
and St Clement (4 in the last 10 days!), and recently Le Rocquier. There
have been prayer meetings, visiting members, leading bible studies and Lent
groups, organising children's holiday clubs for the last two years, after
school club, men's monthly bowling evenings, taking occasional services at
Eastern Good Companions as well as the worship leading, Sunday School and
Mums and Toddlers at Samares. Finally, setting up a youth group within the
last year where we have a core group of 12 young people meeting monthly.
Taking assemblies is a key part of my work, and is also the most
rewarding. At times preparation can be difficult, but this has given me
opportunity to reach the children (especially at Le Squez) with God's word
and has established links for the youth group and assemblies at Le Rocquier.
Having children recognise you and remember what you taught, even though
it's perhaps two years ago, is an amazing God-given privilege.

June Le Rossignol
* June had 2 interviews before being appointed Lay Worker at Ebenezer.
Her responsibilities are pastoral, visiting people when they are ill, in
need of someone to talk to, feeling low or celebrating. She visits those
unable to attend church and is also trying to visit those on the fringes of
the church.
Her hours vary, depending on the needs of the people, sometimes only a
couple of hours, often 5 or 6, even 10, depending on hospital visits etc.
There is no pay, just a travel allowance for petrol used, 'which is all I
want', says June. She continued 'The wonderful part of my work is getting
to learn so much about the families, far and near. Each time I visit I make
another discovery and link with someone on the other side of the Island.
That is part of the joy of living in Jersey, it has such a history and we
are all part of it.
My aim is to make people happy and relaxed because I believe that is
part of the healing process. The other part, of course, is to make folk
realise that they are never alone and God will never desert them. After
visits I am in touch with my Minister keeping him up to date. We often
share our plans at the beginning of the week so we don't clash or leave
anyone out.
I have experienced the tremendous hospitality amongst the whole
congregation, which I value very much. I don't feel I am working, because
it is so uplifting and does me good also. I have had no difficulties and
hope to be allowed to continue this work for some time to come.

Rowland Heaven
Lay worker Georgetown; part time.
Despite an extensive job description the aim of my appointment, after
interview in January 2002, was three fold :-
* a. To have the Church open to the public at least three mornings a week.
* b. To prove the necessity for a full time appointment in the future .
* c. To relieve the Minister of as much administration as possible so that
he can Minister to the community, including the Church congregation more
fully. 
This was Richard Le Maistre's dream and vision for Georgetown Methodist
Church. I find the prospect of trying to fulfil even a small part of that
dream a quite daunting task. How we miss him -as does the Circuit I am sure.

The success thus far is that we have achieved parts a. the open Church; and
b. with the appointment of a second Lay worker, Caroline Homan between us
we make up nearly a full time post. But part c. cannot be realised FULLY in
the way it was initially envisaged whilst we have a Minister WORKING AS
Hospital Chaplain. (Rev. Chris White will write about his new role next time)
The result of my appointment as the Church Administrator is really as
much about co-ordinating the increasing number of activities on the
premises as administration. More importantly perhaps, it is also giving
value to the time now available to speak to, listen to and hear from other
people who call in en passant .
What better premises could one wish to work in. The warmth , comfort and
our stained glass window which is a daily inspiration ? What better way can
I use my limited skills since my enforced retirement from teaching? The
difficult part of the post is to discover where my official work ends and
membership duties begins it can sometimes be a long and tiring week for a
part time employee . My prayer for work is...
Holy Spirit, source of all skill; love and power
Inspire all the works that I do.

Caroline Homan
*
Since January 1st when I started working with Sion and Georgetown
churches as a lay worker, I have had a wonderful time getting to know people
and trying to remember names!
The two congregations have their own priorities and personality and so
there is plenty of variety but I suppose the common theme is that the work
is with people rather than buildings which is great! I visit groups who meet
at church such as toddlers, Girls and Boys brigades, Women's Network (which
includes men), craft group and neighbourhood club. You realise how busy
people are! It is also a privilege to visit people at home to chat and to
pray.
As I am new, it has been lovely to hear of new initiatives at both
churches: links are being made with local old people's homes near Sion so
that they can join the congregation on a more regular basis. At Georgetown
there is a wonderful newish scheme for mothers and toddlers called Golden
Stars: helping both the adults and the children in the group think about
values such as happiness, peace and goodness.
I think Springboard is a wonderful opportunity for us to look out rather
than in and at Georgetown in particular, I have really enjoyed getting
involved in their listening process.
Midweek fellowship groups such as bible reflection, Alpha and, I hope, a
faith sharing group based on the principles of something called The Time and
Space initiative are something else I'm facilitating. Oh and then there are
assemblies at Plat Douet, finding out about the idiosyncrasies of St
Saviour's and St John's parish, juggling the demands of my District role (of
which perhaps I'll write at some other time) with that of the local and so
on, so as you can see plenty of good things and I don't get too bored!

Diana White
Diana is a lay worker at St. Aubin, but this year she has had other
priorities, with Presidential visits! When she has settled back in Jersey
she will write for us about the role of lay workers in different parts of
the Connexion as well as her work at St. Aubin.

Tercentenary Celebrations for 2003
All around the world, Methodists are getting ready to celebrate the 300th
birthday of John Wesley in June this year. Jersey has a number of events
already planned and about to be made public with the help of Tourism and the
Archive Centre. 
* The gardens of Howard Davis Park will display the logo of the
Methodist cross and orb, which aims to be in bloom as summer approaches.
* St. Aubin will be the venue for an outdoor Circuit Service to
celebrate the outdoor preaching of Wesley himself.
* A very large birthday cake is being baked and decorated with candles
for the opening of an Exhibition at an Archive centre.
* An application is being processed for a slate grey plaque to be
located on Old St where Wesley held services in 1787.
* It is hoped that a further service will take place at Le Marais in St.
Mary where Wesley preached and where a service was last held in 1987 in the
sunshine! (On the 250th anniversary of Wesley's 'warmed heart' conversion)
* The Blue Badge Guide, Mr. David Le Gresley, has organised a series of
guided tours of St. Helier on Sunday afternoons during June.
These, along with Coffee Mornings and Concerts, are all part of the
plans currently in hand for this special year. Please try to keep your
Church calendar free during this coming June so you can enjoy all these and
other events to follow. A brochure will be sent to your Church in the
coming months with details of dates and times.
Rev Chris White
Co-ordinator of the Tercentenary Celebrations

The J.E.P. of Sat. Feb. 22nd reported a further cause for celebration. The
Jersey Homes Trust will name their new development in Cannon Street, near
Old Street, the John Wesley Apartments. Rev. Chris White's suggestion beat
30 others and gained a donation of £25 for the Lewis St. Shelter.

The Methodist Church in Jersey, 1774 -2002
A 4-side A5 leaflet with this title has been produced by the churches in
the West section for visitors to take away. It tells how Methodism came to
Jersey through fishermen returning from Newfoundland and gives some early
history, including John Wesley's visit in 1789. It then gives a brief
history of St. Ouen, Bethlehem, Philadelpie and Bethesda. The back page
speaks of the Methodist Church today. Some phrases cause me some concern
'if we choose not to believe in him (Jesus Christ) we will forfeit our
place in the kingdom of heaven.'
'We believe that God does not wish to condemn anybody for their sin, but
unless we accept his offer of forgiveness in Jesus he will have no choice'
What about the grace of God? Are we not all sinners, we can't earn or
deserve grace by our own works? Who are we to judge who will, or will not
be in the kingdom of heaven?
Comments welcome
Ed Le Quesne
The John Lobb Memorial Trust
In 2002, the Trust reached its 21st anniversary. It was formed to
fulfil the aims of John Lobb, sadly struck down in 1980 by terminal illness,
to help talented, young, Jersey-educated people further their musical
careers by making possible advanced tuition, acquisition of professional
quality instruments, attendance at specialised courses etc.
So far, the Trust has helped 86 young people with grants of £123,700 and
loans of £14,000 and there have been many successes. While many who are
assisted leave the Island for a career elsewhere, a number have returned to
teach music or have formed groups which play at events and concerts in the
Island. The Trust has benefited from fund raising events organised by
people, assisted by the Trust, who show their appreciation by putting
something back. It has been a long-standing principle that all help is
given confidentially. It is left to the recipients to disclose that the
Trust has helped them.
Financially the Trust's capital is secure but income has diminished in
recent years due to the fall in interest rates. In 1981 interest rates were
very high and the capital raised was invested in long-dated fixed interest
stocks which provide the steady income needed when commitments are made over
several years to young people. Now most of the original investments have
matured and been renewed at the lower interest rates currently available.
The Trust has had to reduce the number of applications approved and help in
other than direct financial ways.
The Treasurer, Mr. Ron Lee, 721555, would be pleased to hear from anyone
who would like to make a donation, covenant or legacy to the Trust.
* * * * *
Announcement in a church bulletin for a national PRAYER & FASTING
Conference: "The cost for attending the Fasting and Prayer conference
includes meals."
* * * * *
Barbara remains in the hospital and needs blood donors for more
transfusions. She is also having
trouble sleeping and requests tapes of Pastor Randy's sermons.
'Jersey for peace' was the title chosen for the demonstration in the Royal
Square on Feb. 15th, organised by Joy Nursey of the Quakers and a group of
20 or more. The situation is still evolving and an official letter from
Ian White and Peter Howdle, President and Vice-President has been sent to
all Methodist churches We reproduce below the impassioned speech by Rev.
Jeremy Troxler given to the 500 or so gathered there, who joined millions
round the world. 
'Why We're Here'
Good afternoon, and welcome, all of you, to this Demonstration for
Peace. I'd like to thank every one of you for being here today. Thank you
for your courage and your commitment to your convictions. Your presence
here makes a powerful statement: and seeing so many of you here only
confirms again for me the goodness and the decency of the people of Jersey,
a goodness I have been thankful to witness often throughout the whole of my
short time in this place.
My name is Reverend Jeremy Troxler, and I am a Methodist Minister from
the United States serving here in Jersey for this year. You may find it
strange that an American, of all people, would be standing up here speaking
with you today. Perhaps you can take that as another sign that there is
more to America than our President; and that the policies of our governments
do not always match the deepest beliefs of our people.
I personally am here today because before I am an American, I am a
Christian first. That means that I try, with God's help, to follow Jesus:
and Jesus has called on his followers to protect the weak, to overcome evil
with good, and to love even our enemies. I do not find that way easy. I do
not always know what that way means or what it looks like; but I have seen
the beauty and the power of Christ's way of love, and I am here today
because I know, with the certainty born of faith, that it is a way that
cannot be reconciled with a pre-emptive war against Iraq.
Others of us are here today for many reasons. Some of you are here
because you are, quite simply, a human being: one who treasures the dignity
and the sanctity of every single human life, in every nation around the
globe. Some of you are here because you know firsthand the horror of war:
because a nation that has lived through the Blitz, an island that has lived
through the German Occupation, knows all too well the agony and the
senselessness that are always war's grim companions. Some of you are here
because you fear the long-term consequences of this conflict: you realise
that we can never bomb hatred out of the world, that you can never
extinguish a fire with petrol, and that ultimately the seeds of hate sown by
any war will yield only an even more horrifying harvest of terrorism down
the road. 
Some of you are here because you are just simply uneasy with the way our
nations are moving. You're not convinced that there is enough evidence,
you're not convinced that all peaceful means have been tried, you're not
convinced that the demanding case for war has been made. Or maybe some of
you can't even really spell out exactly why you're here: you just know that
there is a tug on your conscience that tells you that somehow this war is
wrong, and so you came here today, perhaps even a bit sheepishly, but you
came nonetheless.
Whatever our different reasons, all of us are really here on this sunny
and cold day for just one reason: because we all long for peace. For real,
for genuine, for lasting, peace.
For us to stand here for peace during a time such as this does not mean
that we do not love and respect the brave men and women in military service:
on the contrary, our thoughts and our prayers go out to them and their
families, for it is they and not the politicians who must suffer during this
time. We stand here for peace today because the lives of those brave men
and women are so precious to us that we refuse to allow even one of them to
die in a war that is not absolutely necessary and absolutely just.
Neither does our standing for peace mean that we do not recognise and
wrestle with the evil that lives in Saddam Hussein's regime.
What it means is that we recognise that the greatest temptation in
confronting evil, is to become evil ourselves. We stand here for peace
today, because we realise, on a deeper level, that there is more at stake in
this conflict than the mere toppling of a tyrant, or even the elimination of
dangerous weapons. 
What's at stake, is nothing less than the question of who we will be as
a people. 
Today our nations now find themselves in the grips of their own brutal
tyrant. That tyrant's name is fear. With every new terrorist alert, with
every new frightening headline, the tyrant of fear gains more and more power
over us. And yet it is that fear, and not Saddam Hussein, that is our
deepest, darkest enemy: because that fear tempts us to abandon all of the
ideals which we, as a people, hold dearest.
In the coming weeks, our nations will face the great temptation of
listening to that fear and beginning a war. We will be tempted to make the
vast resources of our nations slaves to our fear, rather the servant of that
which is best in us. We will be tempted to use our power as an expression
of our narrow, selfish self-interests, instead of using it to generously
serve all of humanity. We will be tempted to seek a violent and paltry
peace, a peace-through-war, in which it is OK for the rest of the world to
suffer, as long as we can sleep more soundly in our own beds in our beds at
night. 
If we choose to become a people of war, I worry that in the long run our
nations will, in the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., 'be dragged down the
long, dark and shameful corridors of time reserved for those who possess
power without compassion, might without morality, and strength without
sight.' I worry that we might win a war, and yet at the same time be
utterly defeated in the only way that matters.
And yet there is a more hopeful choice: our nations can rise to the
heights of their most noble ideals and choose a different way. We can
choose the way of peace, real and genuine and life-giving peace. That
peace is not an easy peace. No, it is more costly than even our politicians
would have us to believe. We are being told that peace requires that we use
military force. But that is the easy option. True peace requires something
even more challenging and deeper: it requires soul-force: it requires our
courage even in the face of catastrophe, it calls upon us to have faith in
the midst of fear, it demands restraint amid the seductive temptation to use
the very same violence that we are trying to defeat.
That peace isn't just a goal that we seek; it is a whole way of being in
the world. 
And yet only if we choose to walk that demanding way of peace will we
ever break free from the terrorising chains of our fear.
That way of peace recognises that this morning in the city of Baghdad a
little boy awoke in his bed. That little boy had breakfast in his small
home, laughed with his family and played with his friends, just as our
children do. 
The way of peace tells us that any true and genuine peace is tied to
the survival of that little boy. The end of any conflict that will include
the digging of that little boy's grave can never be called 'peace.' It
can't even be called 'a successful disarmament operation.' It can only be
called 'a crime.' 
Perhaps, finally, amid all our abstract thinking and all our logical
reasons, that one little boy is really why we are all here today. We are
here because we, at least, have decided that none of us are willing to have
even one Iraqi child be killed, just so that we can sleep safer in our own
bed at night. We'll face the fear. We'll take the risk. But please, kill
no children for us. Don't make us have to explain that to our own children.
Kill no child for our benefit.
True peace and a little boy. That is why we are here today.
We've said so many words today. Perhaps we've said too many words;
because in times of possible war, words can become too cheap. Words like
'weapons of mass destruction' can be used to start a war or to fan the
flames of fear; even the rhetoric of right and wrong can too easily become a
twisted word-game.
In such a time, amid so many words of war, perhaps the best way to
express our longing for peace is simply to be provocatively silent together.
We'll be keeping a long moment of silence now. It will be broken with
the reading of a prepared statement. If you wish, use this time of silence
to pray for peace. Or use it to reflect on your own beliefs, and what else
you can do to live as a peacemaker. However we use it, this time of silence
is not the silence of complacency: it is a silence of protest and of quiet
hope.
And so now, together, we let the eloquence of our silence speak.
Local news
St. Martin's renovations
Work has started on the £40,000 renovation of the caretaker's cottage
which adjoins St Martin's chapel. We are finding half of the money from our
own resources and hope to fund the balance with interest free loans.
. The builders first task was to remove the floorboards and replace them
with a damp proof concrete floor and provide a damp proof membrane. Severe
damp upstairs means that both chimneys have to be removed and are rebuilt to
prevent water penetration. Once this is complete the upstairs ceiling will
be replaced. 
A new shower room will be provided and the existing dining room will
become a new kitchen skillfully designed by the ladies of the church
Finally we will divide the area connecting the church and the cottage to
provide a private entrance to the cottage and a storage area for the church.
The days when preachers were greeted with the smell of cabbage being cooked
in the cottage are now but a memory
This work should finished by April when we hope to engage resident
caretakers In the interregnum, the church is being cleaned by seven teams
of volunteers under the direction of Di Le Maistre. The hall is being
cleaned by the Peter Pan playgroup. Our thanks to all these volunteers.
Michael Picot

Up in smoke - £3000 was raised for church funds from the parish bonfire.
Our thanks to all those who helped with this splendid event.

Another church landmark will go with the demolition of Percy's greenhouse.
We will be providing a larger outside play area for the playgroup and Sunday
school. Smoking will not be permitted and a security camera will detect
loafers sitting outside to avoid the sermon!

George Whiteley remembered
50 old Methodist hymn books from St Martin, some of which included a tribute
to George, were recently delivered to Port of Spain Methodist church for use
in the North Trinidad circuit

SITUATION VACANT
St Martin's Methodist Church are seeking a caretaker who will be
responsible for the church premises and a limited amount of cleaning. The
caretaker's cottage has been refurbished to a very high standard and
comprises two bedrooms, new bathroom, new fully fitted kitchen/dining room,
lounge and a utility room. There is also a very private garden and very
good views from the house.
A Christian couple who are interested in the church and its people, and
able to make a contribution towards the rent, would make ideal applicants.
More information is available from Michael Picot 852954, or any church
steward.

St. Martin Sunday School
St Martin's Methodist Sunday school has all the ingredients to make a
successful recipe in encouraging the faith of our children. We must all
remember that the success of our church depends on how our children develop
their faith.
Ingredients
The teachers - a fantastic and enthusiastic team
The children - still the essential ingredient.
The congregation - useful input whose encouragement can make all the
difference. Needed to show that we are one big family.
Tim and I are very excited about the future and thank everyone for their
marvellous support. We are already looking into ideas for well into 2003.
Some of these include encouraging the younger members and giving the older
children more responsibility. We have had a conversation with Malcolm
Salmon the circuit youth worker, who has a wealth of resources. We hope to
encourage the older children to join Youth Alpha.
So all in all its very exciting-any ideas are most welcome. A 24 hour fast,
from midday Saturday to midday Sunday, was held in February in aid of World
Vision for famine in Africa.
Ruth Labey 851903 Tim Du Feu 859566

There are a good number of children in the Sunday School, up to 50,
including a good number of teenagers. Well done, Ruth, Tim and helpers.
Ed Le Quesne

Bethesda Playgroup gets a new name!
From the 1st Oct. 2002 the Education Department requested that some of
the Island's Playgroups change their names and we are now known as 'Bethesda
Pre-School Group'. Also all Supervisors are to be called Managers, and they
will have to have even more qualifications. On 25th October Anne-Marie Jones
left us, after 2 years loyal service to our Pre-School as deputy manager, to
take up a position as a School Assistant in Key Stage 2 at St Peters School.
Mrs Lisa Simon is the new deputy. Lisa has been an assistant since January
2001. She holds a Family and Community Care qualification and is currently
undertaking her NVQ3. Due to the low numbers of children, and the changes
of regulations, we have decided as a team and committee that we shall keep
the number of children to 24 and the staff to 5 per session.
During half term we stay open for the children of working parents. This
we feel is one way in which we as a Pre-School can help our Community. My
thanks to John and Brenda Watts for their continued support and love poured
into the Pre-School week after week. My heartfelt thanks also to my
fantastic team who make working at Bethesda a delight, it really is a
privilege working with them all. Long may we continue to be the Best out
West!
Gail Sparrow. Manager
.
Sadly, John Watts died on 8th December at the age of 73. Brenda has taken
his place as Administrator with a new person in her former role as
Secretary. . 
John had fought his cancer with great courage and determination for the last
ten years and was an inspiration to all. Only a few weeks earlier, he had
read the lesson in Church and although it was obvious that this was an
effort, he had done so willingly and with his usual clarity.
For many years, he had been treasurer of the Nursery School and with Brenda,
had taken a great interest in the children and had given much help and
encouragement to the staff. To the children he was 'Uncle John', a much-
loved visitor and friend, whom they will sadly miss. Many friends filled
the Church for the funeral service conducted by our Minister, the Rev. Kevin
Jones. 

News from Samuel in Burkina Faso, supported by people at Bethesda.
On the 24 of December they had their first baptism which was held in a
hotel swimming pool owned by a Muslim who did not charge. The 12 candidates
were joined by families, friends and hotel staff for a service of praise and
evangelistic preaching. Then, singing and praising God, they walked to the
church for refreshments, to watch the 'Jesus' film and hold a 'Watch night'
service. This was followed by a programme of songs, sketches etc, finishing
with a Christmas message at 5am!! They were really encouraged by the sense
of the Lord's presence in their midst.
There was another 'Watch night' service on New Year's Eve, featuring lots of
prayer. The following Sunday a general assembly of 45 people set the goals
for the year: evangelism, prayer and teaching, encouraging "everybody to be
a soul winner in his or her own environment".
Samuel has 2 specific prayer requests:
1. Land for a permanent place for the church, as the rented building is now
too small!
2. Jobs for the unemployed, who have been asked to trust in the Lord's
providence for employment. Also guidance in setting up projects for some of
the very neediest ladies to support themselves.
He finishes, as usual, with heartfelt thanks to everyone and their prayers
for God's blessing on us all and our families.
-------------------------------------
Once again, I am tremendously encouraged by Samuel's news. The work God is
doing through them is tremendous. His faith and reliance on God shines
through, and He is meeting their needs with His abundant blessings. I often
wonder what we could do if we all shared our faith so enthusiastically with
everyone around us and relied fully on God to bring it to fruition. Would
we see such growth here at Bethesda? All-night praise party anyone?
Chris Haines
Eden has recently installed a new sound system

Sion have a new kitchen.

Bethlehem have bought part of a field, which they intend to convert into a
car park
New addresses
Rev. Tim Ross is living at
16, Bramley Road, Worthing
West Sussex BN14 9DR
Tel: 01903 201309
He still suffers from ME, though not quite as badly as before. He has been
sent a copy of the JEP article, which told of the sudden recovery from ME by
Joy Anthony after a special blood test revealed a missing chemical in her
blood.

Margaret & Alastair Colquhoun,
17, Granada Road,
Southsea, PO4 0RD

ON YOUR BIKE!
St Martin Sunday School and Youth Church Easter Monday Bike Ride takes place
on Monday April 21st this year. Starting at St Martin or West Park, they
will finish at Corbiere, St Ouen or at St Martin for a cooked tea. The
route around the island passes a number of Methodist churches.
There is no pressure to ride the whole route, all ages and abilities take
part.
It is a fun day out. Any churches wishing to join should contact Nick Owen
858262

100 not out!
Congratulations to Di Toole and all who produce the St. Helier Methodist
Centre magazine, which reached its 100th edition with the Winter 2002
edition. The 4 double sided A4 pages keep everyone in touch with what is
happening at the Centre. It includes a page of family news, with items on
church members past and present. There is a thoughtful piece by Debbie
Godefroy on the Advent hope and an introduction to the Alpha course starting
in January. There are humorous pieces, such as items from a church notice
board 
'Potluck supper. Prayer and medication to follow.'
'The sermon topic will be 'What is Hell?' Come early and listen to
our choir practice.'
There is also a piece describing what might happen if God installed
voice mail and adverts for fund raising events for the Redevelopment Fund.
.
Golden Wedding
David and Betty Neal were married on 31st January, 1953 in Leicester, where
David was working in the textile industry and Betty training as a nurse.
They soon came to live in a flat near Betty's father at St. John, then moved
to Val de la Mare. Betty's long association with Bethesda began when she
was encouraged to join a house group by Arthur Queree's mother.

MUSTARD SEED
Several churches help with shoeboxes.
Letter from Rose Helié
Dear Packers of Shoeboxes and Givers of other aid. Phil and I and the rest
of the Jersey team felt we were really privileged to distribute your
shoe-boxes and the aid you had donated. As always there was tremendous joy
(probably never more than with giving out the shoeboxes) but also there was
pain and sadness at the suffering we see.
As well as giving out the shoeboxes, we distributed food bought with money
from Jersey, and this was received so very gratefully. Also we went to visit
a number of the families we support, and this was a special time - by now
some of those families recognize us and greet us like friends. In most we
can see real evidence of improvement and this is so very encouraging.
Our motto is "YOUR HELP MAKES A DIFFERENCE" please keep giving because your
giving really does make a tangible difference.

* The Methodist website is now in operation. The address is
www.ci-methodist.org.uk

* The CTJ website is www.ctj.org.je

* THE BUZZ shares stories around Methodism every month by email. Had an
idea? Done something new? Got a story? Contact
rogerhutchings@methodistchurch.org.uk, sending simply your phone number.
You can sign on for your copy of THE BUZZ at
www.methodist.org.uk/links/email.htm.

* Items for the June issue should be sent by
May 15th to Ed(itor) at 16, Millais Park,
St. Helier, JE2 4RU or edleq@jerseymail.co.uk