Highbury - a place to share Christian Friendship, explore Christian Faith and enter into Christian Mission with Christ at the centre and open to all
Oxford Street. Cheltenham. GL52 6DU
www.highburychurch.co.uk
News
Congregational Church
October 2013
Highbury
An Invitation ... ... to three meetings and a prayer We have said an enormous thank you network. to David and Betty, Phil and Joyce for Through September we have been all their work in co-ordinating our supporting Middle East Concern Pastoral Care scheme for five years, financially and in our prayers. They and it has been good to welcome ask us to join them in praying for Lorraine and Diana as our new Pastoral Christians facing persecution. They Ministry Leaders. At our Pastoral Care th send out regular emails with prayer meeting on Thursday 17 October they requests. You can find out more about will be helping us to shape the future subscribing to those emails at their of Pastoral Care at Highbury. If you are drawn to this areas of Church life web site www.meconcern.org please join us that evening. rd At our Church Meeting on Thursday 3 th October we will be taking the next step And finally, Wednesday 4 November, a meeting not just for parents but for in shaping the future of Highbury, so all of us, in our commitment to make do join us at another in that important Highbury a Child-Friendly Church sequence of meetings. ‘Get your kids through Church’. More details later in Highbury News!
Deadline for November Highbury News: Sunday 13th October
Highbury Congregational Church belongs to the Congregational Federation and is in partnership with the Council for World Mission and Churches Together
01242 522050 Minister@highburychurch.co.uk
Highbury News
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October 2013
Minister’s Memo It reported the way Syrian Church Leaders had “welcomed and endorsed Our thoughts and prayers at the the call of Pope Francis for a day of moment are very much with the people prayer and fasting for Syria on of Syria and with people throughout Saturday 7th September.” the Middle East. The prayer letter went on to say that Through September we have been “The Pope condemned the use of supporting Middle East Concern as the chemical weapons, along with all other world mission part of our Harvest forms of violence, and renewed his Offering. There is still time to appeal for urgent effort towards a contribute to that Harvest Appeal, and negotiated settlement rather than gift aid your contribution, if you would military escalation.” The prayer letter like to place your gift in an envelope went on to say that “The Pope’s call with the necessary information clearly had also been welcomed by other marked ‘Harvest Appeal’ and send it to religious leaders, including the Grand Roger Gregory, our Treasurer. Mufti of Syria.” Middle East Concern asks for our The prayer letter then went on to support, not so much in financial speak of the awful complexities of the giving, as in prayer as they want us to situation in Syria and of the way engage in helping Christians facing “Christian leaders are appalled by the persecution. continuing violence and violations of The focus of our Harvest weekend is human rights. Their consistent on prayer for the Middle East, over message is that a solution can only supper asking the question how can come through political dialogue and we best pray for the Middle East at the that all parties must prioritise the moment. needs of the Syrian people.” It is Saturday 7th September as I sit At the end of their letter Middle East down to write this contribution for spell out some specific prayer requests October’s Highbury News. ...
Praying for the Middle East
Yesterday I received one of Middle East Concern’s regular emails. Many are confidential and not for circulation as we are invited to pray for some very specific circumstances faced by particular people.
“Syrian Christians urge that we join in prayer for Syria at this time. They request our prayers that: a. Peace, justice and reconciliation will be established in Syria
Calls for renewed effort to find a This email, however was for open b. political solution will be heeded by all circulation and so I asked Lorraine to those in authority and with influence circulate it around the church prayer chain.
Highbury News
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October 2013
c. There will be effective provision for those internally displaced and for refugees d. The international community will cease using Syria as a place to pursue their own agendas and act only in the best interests of the Syrian people. Much will have happened between the moment I am writing these reflections and the moment you are reading them. Our prayers are needed in Syria, and also throughout the Middle East. Maybe we should add to those prayers the prayer of St Francis. With every blessing, Richard
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy. O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen
Induction of James Gregory It was a special time at Crediton Congregational Church in Devon on Saturday 14th September, when the congregation of family members, friends and local church representatives filled the church to witness the induction of James Gregory as Pastor. The service was conducted by the Youth Pastor, and the music group led us in a selection of songs and familiar hymns. Rev Michael Heaney, CF General Secretary, brought greetings from the Federation. He reminded us that James, Hayley and their family are on a journey and encouraged us to join in that journey, offering support in every way possible. There were greetings from other churches in and around Crediton. After the service there was plenty of time to meet old and new friends and enjoy tea and the most delicious ‘splits’ with lots of cream and jam. It was a good day of celebration and we thank God that he has led James and his family to this exciting appointment. June Tremlett (on behalf of Sue Cole and Lynda Ingram too)
Highbury News
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October 2013
Sue’s News During August when so many of our regular groups take a break, the Community Café has continued, and what a cheerful, sociable little gathering it attracts. On one particular Thursday morning it was observed that there was activity in Room 3 and, on further investigation, it turned out to be painters quietly, secretively even, transforming the face of the room. Now that new kitchen fittings have been added, the transformation is impressive. We are grateful to those who have given time and talents to completing the changes. Thanks also to Elsie Williams whose brother, Leonard, left a legacy to finance this project.
Much has been discussed about the proposed changes in Highbury’s structure, including the need for a new secretary. The timing of my resignation, with the new system, has been entirely coincidental. The idea of the post seems intimidating to some who could fill the role. The role specifications are to be reviewed and probably simplified and reduced (again!). Do not dismiss the idea of coming forward without thought and prayer. Remember, the secretary does not have to be a woman.
Recently, an email was circulated by Felicity highlighting forthcoming activities in Highbury and other local churches. This was a useful document to disseminate information which there is not always time to advertise at the At the start of September, it was a beginning of service, and is overlooked delight to welcome two new church when sited on a notice board. I hope members. Karen Waldock and to see more as a regular feature. Charlotte Armstrong have been familiar faces in the congregation for I finish with a reminder about the some time. It was good to have them availability of Highbury notelet cards. officially join our church family and we We have a new stock of the attractive hope that they have much joy in their cards with Adrian Stanley’s painting of the church on the front. They are involvement in Highbury. readily available from the office.
Anthologies for Cecilia A reminder that Shirley Fiddimore and I are producing two illustrated anthologies to sell to raise money to help with Cecilia's secondary school education in Zambia. One is 'Poems, Prayers and Promises', the other is 'The Topsy-Turvy World of Cats' which will feature both poems and short pieces of prose about both domestic and big wild cats. We look forward to having contributions from both adults and children, and we need to have your submissions by Thursday 31st October at the very latest, please. Thank you. Judi Marsh
Highbury News
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October 2013
Chosen Charity for October: St Vincent’s and St George’s Association ‘the care you need for the life you want’ This locally based charity has had a dedication of the staff. The work very busy year! involved creating three new communal Originally two separate charities lounge/dining areas suitable for food (hence the long name!) both preparation and cooking, each with a An providing care for people with complex comfortable seating area. and diverse needs, StVs and StGs has additional separate area for the staff team was created on the ground floor, grown considerably. and other communal areas enhanced. The following is extracted from the For the next year (2013/2014) 2012/2013 annual review and impact attention now turns to the exterior of report. the property and the beautiful The main services provided are grounds. Subject to securing sufficient Domiciliary care in your own funds the hope is to complete the majority of the plan to revitalise the home large mature garden and create an Activities and therapy centre accessible garden. This will be used, Community based housing not only by the residents and tenants Residential care at Well Close House, but also by other local disabled and voluntary groups Supported living including primary school children who Guidance and support may have limited opportunities to Achievements explore this kind of environment. The Over the last 12 months 69,321 hours designs for the outside work are ready of direct care and support has been and the hope is that in the coming year provided. Over 55,874 miles have these will become a reality and help been travelled to provide support and attract new visitors. services to people. What the residents said – ‘I like our Work experience for 33 local students kitchen because it’s all different has been provided. colours’ ‘I can now clean the kitchen myself’ Making a difference. Well Close House (Regency Care Home in Lansdown) reconfiguration was finished. Residents stayed living in the home while work continued to alter the interior into self-contained units, which was a huge achievement, mainly due to careful planning by, and
Highbury News
Phoenix – situated on Winchcombe Street The other BIG project planned for 2012/2013 was to identify and secure larger centrally based premises for the relocation of day care services.
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October 2013
Having found a suitable building the Peter Holmes, of the County Council, timescale was remarkable. says “I last came here when it was an empty building. What a difference a April 2012 – year makes! The building has been fundraising drive commenced transformed, but it isn’t just about the 30th July 2012 – building. It’s alive with a real buzz as people come, learn new things and lease agreement signed enjoy themselves. What a great place!” th 6 August 2012 – renovation work begins
The charity is grateful for the wide range of funds received without which main building work completed not as much could be achieved. I feel it a great privilege to be involved with 12th November 2012 – this charity – I have been a trustee for open for business 5 years. So if you would like more This was achieved by help from a information, and want to see the whole host of people, in particular the pictures that go with these words (!) Gloucestershire County Council please see me. learning disabilities commissioning Meanwhile StVs and StGs is very team, the Gloucestershire County grateful for the support of the church. Council education department and Jean Gregory Betteridge School. 8th November 2012 –
Update on Moffat in prison in Zambia We've received two letters from Moffat since my last update. In his July letter it was still very cold - in Zambia temperatures in the winter can be between 6 and 12 degrees. Moffat is waiting to see the cardiologist to explain his test results and ultrasound scan. He hopes to play football when he is feeling better. The prisoners have teams called Chelsea, Liverpool, AC Milan, among others, and Arsenal which is Moffat's favourite team. Please pray for Moffat as he awaits his appointment with the cardiologist, and that the results will be encouraging. Please also pray for Cecilia who has exams in October. The results will determine which secondary school she will go to. She has been doing very well at school and is in the top five in her class - which is amazing when you consider that she missed a couple of years of schooling. So thank you, to all who have been praying for her these last few years, and who have also made a financial contribution towards Cecilia's education. It all helps so much. Judi Marsh
Highbury News
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October 2013
News of the Church Family CONGRATULATIONS to - Grace for winning the Cheltenham Cricket Club u/11 Bowling Award - Heather Pickles and Ian Paterson on the announcement of their engagement - Matt Gasside on his promotion to Operations Manager of P3 Gloucestershire (People, Potential, Possibilities) WELCOME to - Charlotte Armstrong and Karen Waldock who were received into Church Membership on Sunday 8th September WE GIVE THANKS that - Iain Wallington is making excellent progress following his recent surgery, and we continue to pray for him and the whole family, Sharon, Tabi, Murray and Gus A MESSAGE OF THANKSGIVING has been received from - Mick and Jacqui Hall (née Cresswell) who were married at Highbury 25 years ago, asking us to celebrate their love for each other and to thank Highbury Folk who supported them on that day when Rev Clifford Small married them GOOD WISHES - to David Butcher who is spending three months in New Zealand visiting his sister CHANGES OF ADDRESS - Maurice Wilce has moved to live , and we wish him well in his new home, where we know he will be well cared for
- after two happy years living with his youngest daughter, Heather, Rev Lawrence Squires (aged 102) is moving, on Monday 14th October, to ... We wish Lawrence every happiness in his new home - Ray and Margaret Morgan who have moved to Cardiff to be nearer their family OUR SYMPATHY to - Jean Gregory and all the family on the death of her Auntie Yvonne, aged 93 - Ian White and all in his family on the death of his Uncle Roy, especially thinking of Ian’s Auntie Dilys PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS - all those mentioned above, and - David Rogers, transferred from GRH to Bristol for heart surgery, remembering his wife Shirley, and brother Jim at this difficult time - Joan and Ron Wakeman, and Megan's other Grandma Maureen - Ellen Baylis
- Lyn Horne
- Min King
- Gwen Clark
- Olga Slack
- Joyce Moore
- Elsie Williams
- Simon Hayden
- Laura MacLeod’s father
Highbury News
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October 2013
- Ian and Hilare Pulford, and their 11 year old grandson in school in Canada - Jennifer, a friend of Lynda Ingram, on the sudden death of her husband - Sharon Eshraghi-yardi, one of the Highbury Scout Leaders - Amanda Sargeant, Highbury’s Beaver Scout Leader, and her father in Exeter - Mary Michael’s grandson’s other grandmother, Pauline - Brenda and Raymond Clarke
- Vera and David Williams
- Caroline and Christopher Gregory
- Gill and Mike Downward
- Elaine and David Kinchin
- Ann and Stan Jones
- other friends known to us, with continuing health, employment, or personal concerns and worries
Pastoral Care Meeting - Thursday 17th October at 7.30pm We have sent personal invitations to attend this meeting, to all the existing District Visitors and Deacons, and others who have recently expressed an interest in Pastoral Care, or who have been involved previously and in conversation with us have shown a desire to assist in any way they are able with the on-going work of Pastoral Care at Highbury, and hope we haven’t left anyone out? If you have not had a personal letter, and would like to find out more about how the visiting scheme works and our plans for the future, please feel free to come along. You will be most welcome, either to share any ideas you may have for the way forward, or just to listen.
Concerns have been expressed that we are going to abolish it! This is not the case! It will continue BUT we aim to endeavour to build on this scheme, and hopefully move forward, by exploring ways for people to receive specialist support in times of particular need, and to share our resources in a more practical way. If you would feel able to offer any specialist support, such as in times of bereavement, cooking a meal for a new Mum and Dad and their family, offering transport, visiting young families or the elderly in care homes, or if can you suggest anyone who might be able to contribute their gifts in these and any other ways, please let us know.
The Pastoral Visiting Scheme in its present form has run well since its We are open to all suggestions! introduction by Rev Eric Burton in Lorraine Gasside & Diana Adams 1967. Joint Pastoral Ministry Leaders CHURCH FAMILY NEWS AND VISITING REQUESTS contact: Lorraine Gasside Diana Adams
( 01242 239838 - mail@lmgasside.plus.com
( 01242 233663 - diana.adams@btconnect.com PRAYER CHAIN REQUESTS contact:
Lorraine Gasside
Highbury News
( 01242 239838 - mail@lmgasside.plus.com
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October 2013
Chosen Charities Communion offerings and money donated at coffee time after morning worship will go to our chosen charity for October which is the St Vincent’s and St George’s Association (see page 6). The total raised by our communion offerings and by those who stayed for coffee after the morning services during August for the Myasthenia Gravis Society amounted to £159.87
Welcoming Team for October Sunday MORNING Lorraine Gasside Jane Dixon John Stone
Sunday EVENING Diana Adams Lynda Ingram James Martin
Vestry Duty Sunday MORNING Neil Gasside
Sunday EVENING Shirley Fiddimore
Evening Service Readers in October will be: Sunday 6th October
Martin Evans
Sunday
13th
October
Rachel Jacques
Sunday
20th
October
Phil Arnold
Sunday 27th October
Mary Michael
If you would like to be included on this rota please let me know. Jonquil Harrison
Hy-Way We usually meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month in the Morton Brown Room at 2:00pm, and all are welcome to join us. We have a time for worship, and a variety of speakers or other activities, and we finish with tea, biscuits and a chat! Contact me to find out more.
Highbury News
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October 2013
Prayer Focus District 10 Ron and Helen Dowell Frank and Anne Guppy Jim Roberts Fred and Sheelah Scott Elaine Smith Rosamund Stanley Alison Steley Deacon: Diana Adams Visitors: Rosamund Stanley
Prayer Rota for Sundays in October Morning 6th
Sunday
October
Iain Macleod
Sunday 13th October
Mary Michael
Sunday 20th October
Richard Cleaves
27th
Janet Partington
Sunday
October
Evening Sunday 20th October
John Lewis
S.W. Midlands Area of the Congregational Federation invites us to pray for ... Sunday 6th October Sunday
13th
October
Sunday 20th October Sunday
27th
October
Castle Combe Prisoners, prison staff, chaplains & visitors Southam and Bishops Itchington Moreton in Marsh
God, you love each and every person; help all those whom we mention in our prayers to know your love, so that their lives are enriched and fulfilled, and they are free to love others. Loving Lord, hear our prayers.
Highbury News
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October 2013
Day
Meeting
Contact
Tel. Number
Sunday 10-30am
Morning Service
Richard Cleaves
Sunday 6-30pm
Evening Service
Richard Cleaves
Sunday 7-15pm
Hy-Tec
Adrian Blazey
Monday 6-45pm
Scouts
Andy Sargent
Tuesday 9-45am
Toddlers
Felicity Cleaves
Tuesday 5-45pm
Transformers
Carolyn Tennant
Wednesday 9-30 am
Prayer Group
Katherine Stanley
Wednesday 2-00pm
Hy-Way
Jenny Bartlett
Wednesday 6-15pm
Cubs
Felicity Cleaves
Wednesday 6-00pm
Brownies
Christine Lodge
Thursday 10 - 11.30
Community Café
Felicity Cleaves
Thursday 7-30pm
Church Meeting
Sue Cole
Deacons’ Meeting Open the Book
Richard Cleaves
Hope Group
David Butcher
Friday 7-00pm
Guides
Tania Ashdown
Friday 7-30pm
Choir
Mary Clifford
Saturday 10-00am
Beavers
Amanda Sargeant
1st Saturday 2-30pm
Friendship Group
Olga Slack
2nd Saturday 6.30pm
Hy-Speed
Adrian Blazey
Sunday 9-30 am
Hy-Spirit
Mary Buchanan
Highbury Lunch in October The next lunch will be held on Wednesday 9th October at 12.30pm when all will be welcome to come, and bring friends and neighbours too but just let the Cooking Team know you are coming, please!
Highbury News
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October 2013
Calendar for October Thursday 3rd
7.30pm
Church Meeting - all welcome - see page 2
5th
2.30pm
Friendship Group for those who live alone
SUNDAY 6th
10.30am
Saturday
6.30pm Wednesday
9th
12.30pm
Morning Worship Evening Prayers with the Lord’s Supper Monthly Lunch - see page 12 - followed by
2.00pm
Hy-Way - see page 10
Thursday 10th
7.30pm
Open the Book - see page 18
Saturday 12th
6.30pm
Hy-Speed for younger members
8.00pm
Hy-Speed for older members
9.00am
Sunday Special
SUNDAY 13th
10.30am Monday 14th Thursday
17th
SUNDAY 20th
6.30pm
Evening Prayers
7.30pm
Good News People - see page 16
7.30pm
Pastoral Care Meeting - see page 9
10.30am
Morning Worship with the Lord’s Supper
6.30pm SUNDAY 27th
Morning Worship
10.30am
Evening Prayers Morning Worship led by Liz Palin who is part of the North Gloucestershire Ministerial Anglican Team
6.30pm
Evening Prayers led by Amanda Thiselton nearing the end of a Reader's Course, and a member of Christchurch, Cheltenham
Thursday
31st
4.30pm
Children’s Starlight Party
7.30pm
Hope Group
Highbury Community Café Every Thursday 10:00am until 11:30am Coffee, Tea and Homemade Cake Bring your Friends and Neighbours
Highbury News
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October 2013
The Power of a simple gift This Christmas why not pack a shoe box with gifts for a child in need?
If you would like to pack a shoe box please pick up a leaflet in Church. For more details, please speak to: Lorna White 01242 232915 Olga Slack 01242 529534 Please bring your filled shoe boxes to Highbury on Sunday 3rd November 2013 or hand to Lorna beforehand
Thank You Highbury News
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October 2013
Operation Christmas Child Shoebox items One or two of our keen knitters have been knitting up items that can go into Shoeboxes. They are using patterns which have come from the charity. On Sunday 13th October when we launch the Shoebox appeal there will be a stall of these items for you to take and put it into your box. We will also put out a box and, if you would like to make a thank offering for their efforts, it will go to Operation Christmas Child or be used to fill some boxes. If you would like a copy of the patterns to make some yourself then please ask me. Felicity Cleaves
CCP County Community Project’s programme is an emergency food distribution service for people and families in times of crisis. It provides food parcels to cover an immediate crisis, or to give support in the intervening period before statutory agencies can begin ongoing longer term financial assistance. There is a continual urgent need for all non-perishable food, in particular meat based products such as tinned curry, minced beef, tinned stew, Fray Bentos pies, corned beef, tinned ham etc.. Donations of staple foods such as rice, pasta and mash, cereals, packet and other tinned foods are also needed. Please could you leave your donations in the carrier bags, if you use them, it makes our job transferring so much easier and the bags do get reused. If you bring goods in your ‘bags for life’ and transfer to the display baskets, that is also fine, but PLEASE don't take items out of other bags for us to put back in on Monday morning! Your generosity has been wonderful, and this has included some financial donations which have been left in the basket at the back of church. Please could we ask you to pass these directly to us for safety, or put them on to the offering plate, suitably labelled for our treasurer. If you take your donations direct to CCP yourself please note that the CCP HQ is now in Royal Crescent instead of the One Stop in the lower High Street. Many thanks to everyone for your ongoing commitment to this cause. Lorraine and Neil Gasside
Highbury News
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October 2013
Good News People … This a gathering place for those who want to learn how to share their faith with others. Each gathering is an opportunity to … Meet with other people who are interested in sharing their faith Think through key issues on sharing your faith today Keep people up to date with what you are doing Learn about new resources for faith-sharing Pray together Time:
7-30 till 9-00pm
When:
2nd Monday of October - 14th October
Subject:
Listening Skills - Speaker to be confirmed
Where:
St Matthew’s Church, Clarence Street, Cheltenham
For more information, visit our website at: www.goodnewspeople.org or email office@goodnewspeople.org or
01594 529752
Food safety and catering Back in the spring I went on a course to ensure we are providing meals safely, and within current legislation, at Highbury. You will be pleased to know that I passed the exam at the end! There’s even a certificate to prove it in the kitchen! But one of the things I am charged with is to make sure everyone who uses our kitchen for church cooking is also using safe practices. So I referred back to our paperwork to check. I am horrified to say that it’s all out of date – many of you signed our catering check-list in 2007/2008! So I should like everyone who cooks in our kitchen, or who prepares food at home for consumption at church, to have a new form to sign, which we can then keep in our files. This is rather tedious I know, but at present we have a 4 star rating on our church kitchen, and I should like to keep that! We haven’t had a council inspection for a while, it would be great to be up to date when we do. The people who definitely need to do this are all the Wednesday lunch cooks, Transformers cooks, Hy-Tec cooks, uniformed organisations cooks, café cooks and so on. If that’s you please get a form from me – or help yourself to one in the ‘training’ file on the kitchen windowsill. Please read and keep the top part, sign and return the bottom part. If you are not sure whether you need to do this, please speak to me for clarification. Thank you for you help. Jean Gregory
Highbury News
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October 2013
‘Firm Foundations’ Nicaragua Appeal Update A group from the Federation visited technical support to Nicaragua to see some of the work this cooperatives to deal with appeal is funding. They were humbled coffee rust fungus on their by the hard work and dedication of the plantations people they met, from community proper mapping, marking and members to Christian Aid staff, to the protection of 130 hectares of Nicaraguan partner organisations forest belonging to the running the projects. They were cooperatives’ members impressed at the sophistication of setting up a new Soppexcca much of the work, despite challenging café in the capital, Managua, circumstances; people were building to showcase and open up a resilient businesses to support their domestic market for the families, building things that would coffee, and also to provide truly last. They were impressed by the employment for the coffee amount of time the staff of Christian farmers’ (adult) children Aid and its partners invested into construction of a new coffee building long-term and respectful wet processing mill (the first relationships with communities – step in the coffee production putting ordinary people at the heart of process, separating the coffee community decisions about how to beans from the coffee improve their way of life. ‘cherries’ that they grow in) We had the opportunity to hear more In the coming six months Soppexcca’s about this Appeal last September at work will include: Highbury, when we made it our training for farmers on coffee Harvest Appeal 2012. This is the final and cocoa crop management year of the three-year appeal, and the Dos Hermanas Coffee need is still there to contribute towards a programme this worthwhile cause. focusing on gender and social PROJECT UPDATE welfare for women & families Soppexcca works with coffee farmers making preparations for the to help improve their crops, to provide coming coffee harvesting a good market and help them work session collectively to export coffee to the USA working with Christian Aid to and Ireland. Its recent work included: apply for significant funding supporting coffee cooperatives from the Inter-American to diversify their production to Development Bank to enable also include plantain, beehives an increase in their work on and cocoa cocoa production
Highbury News
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October 2013
CIEETS works in the remote, hot north-west of Nicaragua on a range of community projects. Their work over the coming six months will include: developing an experimental corn farm, which had to be postponed due to the last rainy season starting late
fully implementing a Humanitarian Accountability Partnership (HAP) process - to find out more, please visit hapinternational.org to start at least two new businesses for women
Please remember the people of Nicaragua in your prayers and especially those who are most affected by the changing climate
Open the Book Thursday 10th October from 7-30 to 9-00 Faith, Hope and Love The Kairos Palestine Document In 2009 the churches of Palestine and Israel invited the churches of the world to think through what is at the heart of the Christian faith and how that speaks into the current situation in Palestine and Israel. They take as the inspiration of their document 1 Corinthians 13:13 and focus on Faith, Hope and Love. In our Open the Book evenings we are going to take a look at their statement and reflect on what it means for us and the response we can make. Thursday 10th October
Faith
14th
November
Hope
Thursday 12th December
Love
Thursday
A Recipe that only the Mothers of Hungry Children know 1. 2. 3. 4.
Light the fire. Fill a pot with water. Add some stones. Sit with your children, and listen to the pot bubbling. 5. Tell stories and sing to your children until they are asleep, still hungry, but with a full helping of their mother’s love.
Highbury News
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October 2013
Father’s little angel killed in Gaza conflict At Christmas time we will remember, once again, a family in a holy land, taking refuge in a time of conflict. Five years ago a rocket landed on Younis’ farm in the Gaza Strip, where his family had lived all their lives, taking his young daughter's life. Four-year-old Malak, which means ‘angel’ in Arabic, was playing with her two-year-old sister when the rocket hit. Younis told us that Malak was 'untouched' by the rocket, but that she died from the shock. Her little sister, Doha, was injured. In November 2008, Israel launched a 22 day military offensive against Gaza, known as 'Operation Cast Lead'. 1,393 Palestinians were killed - 347 of them children, and 13 Israelis, including three civilians, were killed. Children in danger To protect his other children, Younis took refuge in Gaza City. After five days they returned to their home where he discovered that his livelihood had been destroyed. Younis said ‘There was no place for the goats, there were no goats; everything was lost. The farms in the neighbourhood were all demolished. Before it was like paradise. You should have seen the fruits and the trees everywhere… I used to have a good farm with big trees. I used to sell the produce and eat the produce from the trees. I used to have goats. It was enough to live a good life in Gaza.' Support to rebuild his life In 2011, through Christian Aid’s partner, Palestinian Agricultural Relief Committees (PARC), Younis was supported by giving him two pregnant goats. ‘PARC was the only organisation that supported me’ he said, ‘they gave me two goats, which were already pregnant.’ Those two goats became five, and life on Younis' farm began to improve. ‘My project is growing. It makes my life easier. It is good for me. I work in a profession that I know. I have worked in this profession for thirty years. I do what I know and this is important for me.’ Hope for tomorrow Younis and his family are on the road to recovery, but they still hope that tomorrow will be better. ‘At the moment I am not able to cover all the needs of my family, but I hope that one day I will be able to have my farm again. I have to work hard. Everything will come in time.’
Highbury News
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October 2013
The History of ‘Through the Roof’ (TTR) In the 1980s and 90s, Joni Eareckson Tada, the gifted American writer and speaker, started to give disability high profile amongst churches worldwide through her remarkable biography and popular speaking tours. In the autumn of 1994 ‘Joni & Friends’ held a European church conference in Hungary, attended by a UK contingent of 28 delegates. Amongst them was speaker Paul Dicken who lectured on ‘The Accessible Gospel’, and magazine publisher Colin Reeves, who organised Joni’s British speaking tours.
Each one was written to, and they became a core support group. Later that year Joni spoke at packed UK meetings including Salisbury Cathedral and Westminster Chapel, attracting many new supporters. One most exciting service took place at Whitewell Metropolitan Tabernacle in Belfast when over 1,000 disabled people attended. The pastor prayed at the beginning of the meeting, drawing an analogy from the great banquet account in Luke 14. ‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame….’ Now, over 100 disabled people attend that church each Sunday as part of their thriving disability activities.
The idea emerged and was pursued at several follow-up meetings, a new UK branch of ‘Joni & Friends’ could be effective – it would promote to British churches awareness of disability and the full inclusion of disabled people in Christian ministry. Unlike existing With the Disability Discrimination Act, specialist groups, it would cover all which affected churches, coming on forms of disability. stream, demand for TTR skills and In 1995 Colin went with Joni to Ghana materials grew, and TTR played a key on an early ‘Wheels for the World’ part in launching the Churches for All mission, bringing back the concept for campaign, and published simple possible UK teams. guidelines for church personnel. Then, In October 1996 Paul asked the USA in 1999, the trustees of both TTR and board of ‘Joni & Friends’ to endorse a the 40-yr-old Disabled Christians new UK work affiliated to Joni and Fellowship saw the sense of merging Friends. Clearly an association with the two organisations – both brought Joni Eareckson Tada would aid a differing skills and assets to the table, fledgling ministry. They agreed, asked and both were blessed! Colin to form and chair a board, and By God’s grace, ‘Through the Roof’ gave seed funding of $15,000 to start today continues its core ministries the ministry. while readily adapting to new and partnerships, It began in February 1997 in Paul opportunities echoing Christ’s call to… ‘Go out to the Dicken’s front room with 300 names roads and country lanes and make and addresses of ‘Joni & Friends’ them come in, so that my house will be supporters. full’.
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The Hymn Society The Hymn Society was founded in 1936 for the purpose of: - encouraging study and research in the field of hymnody - promoting good standards of hymn-singing - encouraging the discerning use of hymns in worship, and - sponsoring relevant publications Rev Dr Janet Wootton, the Congregational Federation’s Director of Studies, presented seven new hymns by different authors at the Hymn Society Conference earlier this year, at The Hayes Christian Conference Centre, Swanwick, Derbyshire. She led a workshop in the afternoon, with some of the brightest hymn writers of the day, including Andrew Pratt, Marjorie Dobson and Marting Leckebusch. In a two hour session, between ten people in the workshop, seven new texts were produced. The theme was ‘gathering’ – what is it that is so special about Christians singing together in the presence of God? Many of the texts focused on the fact that we come with all our faults and hurts, and find healing and forgiveness; and that this is our witness to the world. The texts were sung as part of a mini-festival the same evening, with writers such as Timothy Dudley Smith (Lord for the years), Michael Saward (Christ Triumphant), Christopher Idle and others in the gathering. Lord, I may not have the great oratory of the preacher or the sensitive touches of a poet; I may not have the vision of an artist or the ear of a great musician, but I will strive to be all that I ought to be in your sight, and stretch my talents and skills to the uttermost so that your world is filled with beauty and my life becomes an offering of joy
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W.S. TRENHAILE FUNERAL DIRECTORS Apostle House 175 London Road Charlton Kings GL53 6HN
INDEPENDENT FAMILY BUSINESS EST 1933 24 HOUR CARE AND PERSONAL ATTENTION Tel: 01242 224897 Email – wstrenhaile@yahoo.com
BA Launch 11th
On September the Congregational Federation launched the new BA (Hons) in Practical Theology. This is a ‘top-up’ course, for students who have completed the existing training courses, to bring their Foundation Degree up to a BA. It is , which means it is about both doing and thinking, and it comes from a deliberately . From Wednesday to Friday, four brave pioneer students studied the first two modules with tutors Alan Argent, Jane Giscombe, Ann Jeffers and Richard Cleaves. The students said that they had come with great trepidation, but were leaving with a sense that the course was achievable and inspiring. If you would like to register an interest in applying for next year’s course, contact
Mason & Stokes
janet.wootton@congregational.org.uk
Funeral Directors David Mason Richard Mason Joy Mason A Family Business Providing a Caring Day and Night Service Tudor Lodge 54 Hewlett Road Cheltenham GL52 6AH Tel: 01242 224877 Help and Advice on Pre-Arranged Funeral Plans
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October 2013
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October 2013
Highbury Congregational Church A place to share Christian friendship, explore Christian faith and enter into Christian mission with Christ at the centre, and open to all Sundays at 10.30am A time for all the Church family to share in worship groups for children and young people
Sundays at 6.30pm quiet, reflective evening prayers with a focus on Biblical teaching
Toddler Group / Transformers for school years 3-6 / Hy-Tec for 11s & over Choir/ Music, House and Prayer Groups / Alpha: exploring faith / Hy-Way / Friendship Group / Scouting / Guiding / etc. For a chat, or to find out more, ring Richard Cleaves on 01242 522050 Sunday Walk in the Woods Swaying trees, Dried crumpled leaves, Rustling in the breeze, Looking up at tall slender branches, Splayed out against the blue sky Towering up above Stretching out high. Below a carpet of dried crumpled leaves; Twigs snapping, crackling under the sole, A squirrel darts from a nearby hole Fresh tingling atmosphere, Invigorating the senses; Bushes and branches beside Weather-beaten fences; Head hanging down, Withered leaves on the ground, Breeze blowing the hair, An occasion so rare. Shirley Fiddimore in ‘Hope for Cecilia’
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