HotPott May 2026

£1 May 2026

Pott Shrigley’s Church & Parish Magazine

Ponderings on a Scrap of Paper Victoria recently spoke to us at the 10.45am service about where finding an old piece of paper in a book took her: ‘Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.’ Luke 22:31-32

God was reminding me that even when we feel shaken, we are not abandoned, and that our faith can be held even in fragile moments.

I felt prompted to spend some time really thinking about what that verse means, for Peter those many years ago, and for all of us now.

Let's see what Luke 22:31-32 can teach us about being I wanted to shaken in our share briefly faith and about why I felt led Victoria Price the restoration to this verse.

God has already Recently, my husband found planned for us: a very old book at our new house: a daily missal (a book There are seasons when faith listing the Bible readings and feel strong and steady. prayers to be read on each day And then there are seasons of the year) from many years when faith feels…. shaken, ago. Inside was a handwritten stretched, or fragile. note from 1950, and on the back of that note was a single Times when prayers feel scripture reference: Luke unanswered.

22:31-32. So, I grabbed my Times when hope feels tired.

Bible and read the passage: I was struck. I had been feeling Times when we quietly low in myself spiritually, wonder: ‘God, are You really even questioning things and there?’ feeling really deflated. Seeing If you've ever felt that way that verse felt like more than you're not alone. coincidence. It felt like a nudge, a nudge I needed right And this verse speaks directly in that moment, as though into those moments. Jesus continued →

HotPott - May 2026

This Edition Pg

Content

3

Ponderings on a Scrap of Paper

6

Reflecting, Rambling and Rejoicing

8

Restoring our Lychgate

9

Not Just Sunday

10

Walking the labyrinth

11

Ingredients for a Labyrinth

12

‘We go where others won’t’ (HART)

15

News from Malawi

16

Signs of New Life: April’s Prayer Walk

18

Mouse Makes

19

Coffee Break

21

Fun, Chocolate and £885

23

Flix in the Stix

25

Meet the McCleans

33

Recipe: Easy Chocolate Brownies

34

Services

May 2026 Page 3

Peter's denial of Jesus

says these words to Peter on the night before his arrest, a night filled with fear, confusion and coming heartbreak. Peter feels confident in himself, but Jesus sees what Peter cannot yet see: that he will stumble, that he will struggle, and that he will need grace.

Jesus says: ‘Satan has asked to sift you as wheat.’ To sift wheat means to shake it, to separate what's real from what's empty. And if we're honest - life can feel like that sometimes. We get shaken by disappointment, fear, waiting, loss, uncertainty. But feeling shaken doesn't mean your faith is failing. Sometimes it simply means your faith is being tested, refined, and deepened.

Being shaken does not mean God has stepped away, often it means we are in a season where our faith is being shaped.

Peter doesn't believe he will fail; he thinks he’s stronger than he really is.

But Jesus knows Peter will deny him, He knows Peter will fall short. And still, Page 4

Jesus doesn't shame him. He doesn't reject him. He doesn't walk away. Instead, Jesus says something incredibly tender: ‘But I have prayed for you.’ Jesus sees Peter’s weakness before it happens and still chooses love, patience, and mercy.

Jesus doesn't promise Peter that he won't stumble, He promises that Peter's faith will not be destroyed.

Peter will fall, but Peter will not be lost, which matters so much because it reminds us that we may struggle, but we are not abandoned; we may feel weak, but we are not forgotten; we may feel unsure, but we are still being held.

And even when we don't have the words to pray, when we feel tired or spiritually worn, Jesus is praying for us. Sometimes the most comforting truth is this: when I don't have the strength to hold onto God, God is still holding on to me.

This is where hope gently enters the story: even when God acknowledges our weakness, He never leaves us stuck there.

Isaiah reminds us of God's heart: ‘See, I am doing a new thing. Now it springs up do you not perceive it?’ (Isaiah 43:19) Even in seasons that feel uncertain, fragile, or unfinished, God is quietly at HotPott - May 2026

work. He is not only restoring what was shaken, He is creating something new.

Even when we can't see it yet, when it feels slow, when our hearts feel tired, God is still moving, still renewing, still bringing fresh hope.

Jesus says to Peter: ‘And when you have turned back..’ (Luke 22:32) Not if, but when. Before Peter even fails, Jesus already sees his return. God does not define us by our worst moment, but by His grace, mercy, and restoration. Failure, struggle and doubt are not the end; God is already planning redemption before we even realise we need it.

Jesus finishes with: ‘Strengthen your brothers.’ (Luke 22:32) Peter's failure doesn't cancel his calling, it deepens it.

His weakness becomes wisdom and his story becomes encouragement for others.

And this can be our story too: sometimes the very seasons that feel hardest become the seasons God uses to help us strengthen someone else later. God doesn't waste our pain, He can turn it into compassion, understanding, and purpose.

So, if you feel shaken today, if your faith feels fragile, if your heart feels tired, remember this: you may be sifted, you may stumble, but you are not lost. Jesus sees you, Jesus cares, Jesus is praying for you. And God is still at work: still restoring, still renewing, still doing a new thing.

Your story is not over.

Your faith is not finished And God has not let go of you.

Amen.

*** A man burst into a flower shop and urgently demanded two pink potted geraniums. The clerk explained that they did not have any, but could offer him African violets instead. ”No,” said the man sadly. “It was geraniums that my wife told me to water while she was gone.” *** There is the story of a minister who got up one Sunday and announced to his congregation: “I have good news and bad news.

The good news is, we have enough money to pay for our new building programme. The bad news is, it’s still out there in your pockets.” ***

HotPott - May 2026

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Reflecting, Rambling and Rejoicing: Easter at St Christopher’s At our service on Good Friday, we were each invited to pick up a stone to help us reflect on Christ’s journey to the cross, and to think how this may help us in our daily lives.

Kath Matheson We imagined being just a stone’s throw away from Jesus as He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, asking: ‘Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.’ (Luke 22:42) Could we put ourselves in the garden, could we share in Christ’s anguish or would we have fallen asleep like the disciples? Do we notice, and stand with, those who are suffering? Would we use our stone to attack those betraying and arresting Jesus, or would we remain still, contemplating what was happening to the man who could be the Son of God? We were reminded that Peter, whose name means rock, denied knowing Jesus three times, yet Christ later described him as the rock on which He would build His church (Matthew 16:18). We held our rocks and contemplated how, although like Peter the Rock we are often weak and sinful, God can work through us to do good things as He did with Peter. We thought too of Christ remaining firm as a rock, despite being ridiculed and wounded, and prayed that we, like Christ, would remain grounded in our love for God when times are tough.

Some of us then took our stones to the foot of the cross and left them there, just as we can leave our burdens at the feet of Christ every day of our lives.

And then for some of us it was time for hot cross buns and a walk; for the shortwalkers, appropriately led by Sandy Page 6

Sally at lunch

Milsom, this comprised a gentle amble to Moorside and thence to The Coffee Tavern, but for the more intrepid Will Gem had organised a route march up to Charleshead. Lunchtime preceded the final ascent and, organised as ever, Sally produced a stool from her rucksack, saving her the need to sit on the somewhat mucky field. We were a little disappointed, however, that she didn’t have mum Audrey’s wine bottle/glass carrier with her too! Onward and upward, we staggered (in my case) to the top of Charleshead, where the first stirrings of Storm Dave treated us to a real buffeting – though it was worth it for the spectacular views. From then on it was downhill (mostly) towards Pott Shrigley. Will had organised a wonderful walk for us; he even arranged for the rain to hold off until we were almost home.

Although fewer in number than usual, those who went for the traditional Good Friday curry at The Viceroy were treated to tasty food and good company.

HotPott - May 2026

Buffeted on Charleshead

We met again on Easter Day; it was a joy to see so many children participate in Junior Church during the 10.45am

service (and the St Christopher’s Easter Egg Hunt!). It was a joy too to celebrate Christ’s resurrection. Rev. Lynn pointed out that the apostle Matthew describes an earthquake happening on the first Easter Day (Matthew 28:2), and how current world events, and for some of us personal trials, feel like earthquakes too. But God is working all the time, in the most unlikely of places, to reshape the world and to remove barriers between people. God’s unimaginable power in breaking open the tomb and raising Christ from death to life has opened the way for those who turn to Him to be released from the power of sin and death; not because we deserve it, or have earned it, but because He loves us unconditionally. We are invited to stand on the rock of Christ, and to encourage others from all walks of life, even those who feel alien to us, to join us there.

St Christopher’s Pastoral Ministry For pastoral support, a listening ear, a home visit, Holy Communion at home, prayer support or if you have a baptism enquiry please contact the pastoral ministry care team via Anne Murphy. pastoralteam@pottshrigleychurch.org.uk telephone: 07891 953919

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Restoring our Lychgate The lychgate is a familiar sight to everyone in Pott Shrigley – but do you know its history? In July 1919, a Special Parish Meeting (a rare event in this village, although I do recall one other) was called to consider raising funds for a memorial to record and commemorate the names of those who took part in the Great War. Various suggestions were put forward, including an altar, a chancel screen, a lychgate, a carved oak table, a lectern, or even a parish hall. As the latter proved too expensive, the lychgate option was chosen.

Joyce Burton The original site ‘at the east end’ was deemed unsuitable and the present location was selected. The old stone wall was set back from the road, cutting off a corner of the churchyard, and the lychgate was built into this new length of wall. A diocesan faculty (permission) was applied for and granted in August 1920. The cost was some £175 (£10,150 today). It was erected in 1920 and consecrated on 11th October 1920 in a service led by the Bishop of Chester.

Lychgate

102 years later, at a council meeting in December 2022, Cllr Basford noted that the lychgate’s sole plates needed repair and that the whole structure had developed a slight lean. After three and a half years and, it must be said, a substantial number of emails and a forest of paperwork to secure permission and funding, I was able to secure a grant of £2,680 from the War Memorials Trust to support the repairs.

Additional generous support came from the church. Securing grants for major projects such as this is vital in enabling the council to keep the precept, and therefore its share of council tax, as low as possible.

Repairs to the lychgate have always been somewhat problematic. While it serves as the village war memorial, it also stands on church land, meaning that any alterations must be approved by Chester Diocese.

St Christopher's before the lychgate was built Page 8

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The sole plates had been patched several times over the years, but their rapid deterioration meant that full replacement was necessary.

Repairing the gate was a complex job, involving lifting the entire structure.

Quotes reflected this, with the highest exceeding £10,000. Fortunately, Greenwood Joinery and Building Services carried out the work to a high standard at a more manageable cost. The stone tablets

which record the names of those men who were killed, wounded or served in the war were also restored by William Warrington.

The result is a restored lychgate which will continue to stand as a proud reminder of the village’s history for many years to come.

Thank you to Joyce for securing the grant, to David Garton for liaising with the diocese and to Ian Greenwood and William Warrington for doing the work so beautifully.

Not Just Sunday News Easter celebrations at Not Just Sunday worship were very happily augmented by Reg Ferguson’s birthday on the Wednesday of Easter week. A delicious birthday cake was much enjoyed by everyone there.

Lynne Bowden Thanks also to Irene North, who takes part in our Wednesday group, for her super cards made to raise funds. They are available on the table at the back of church.

In Holy Week we prepared for Maundy Thursday by exploring the passage where the apostle John describes the Last Supper and comparing it to Ford Maddox Brown’s Pre-Raphaelite painting Jesus washing Peter’s feet.

We have recently discussed the stories of Jesus with the Samaritan woman at the well and Nicodemus visiting Him at night. We are now embarking on a series based on Jesus’ saying, also from St John’s Gospel, ‘I am the bread of life.’

Reg Ferguson's birthday

All are more than welcome to join us or to come to the social time before Celtic worship, or both!

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Walking the Labyrinth Walking a labyrinth was the first spiritual exercise undertaken by the four women whose spiritual journeys are mapped out in the Sensible Shoes series of books, which many of us have been studying over the last few months.

Kath Matheson It’s an ancient tradition, the labyrinth on the floor of Chartres Cathedral being from the 13th century; more modern ones exist at Holy Trinity Hurdsfield and Marple!

Walking a labyrinth simply provides an opportunity for prayer, space in our busy schedules to encounter God, where we slow down to give God our prayerful attention and where we can be deeply touched and changed by God’s extravagant love for us. Unlike a maze, a labyrinth has a single winding path that leads us to and from the centre; there are no obstacles and no dead ends.

Over the Easter weekend, we were blessed in Pott Shrigley to be able to walk the labyrinth created by Yvonne Foster and Sandy Milsom. (See opposite.) Although the original plan was to have it laid out in the churchyard, the uncertain weather made it more practical to use the village hall floor. There is no set way to walk a labyrinth, though it was suggested we picture the journey in three stages and the following advice was given: 1. The trip inward: just as pilgrims deliberately leave behind the cares of the world to travel freely and lightly, so God invites us to let go of the things that clutter our lives. As you begin the journey, notice what distracts and hinders you, what competes for your affection and Page 10

attachment to Jesus. Consider using the journey to the centre as an opportunity to release burdens, identify fears and confess sins.

2. The time at the centre: take time to rest here; linger in God’s loving embrace and receive whatever gifts of Scripture, insight, presence, peace or revelation God gives. Simply enjoy being with God. 3. The trip outward: allow the Spirit to strengthen and empower you as you take God’s presence and gifts out into the world.

We were also invited to pick up a stone from a basket at the entrance to the labyrinth, and, if we wished, to lay it at the foot of the cross in the middle.

I found walking the labyrinth a calming experience; I generally cram as much activity as possible into my time, not always (or indeed often) productively, and it’s not good for my spiritual health either. Walking the labyrinth did slow my thoughts down, made me think about my relationship with God and what trivia I allow to crowd Him out of my life. It felt good to lay the stone I was carrying down at the foot of the cross in the centre; I felt it represented leaving the burdens I carry unnecessarily with Christ and not picking them up again! I felt lighter on the outward journey and pray that I am now more able to share the love of God with others.

I’m looking forward to walking it again, maybe in the summer in our churchyard and its beautiful surroundings. Thanks to everyone who made it possible!

Some of the above is taken from the book Sensible Shoes by Sharon Garlough Brown, acknowledged with thanks.

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Ingredients for Making an Outdoor Labyrinth One sermon to spark an idea.

One person who takes it up. (Yours truly)

Yvonne Foster Four extra large dust sheets, eight machine Dylon dyes, numerous rubber bands to tie dye, eight cycles through the washing machine, 20 eyelets and many hours under a sewing machine, a seven-metre bell tent ground sheet, two hammers, 40 tent pins, one large holdall.

One consultant who listens to your cries for help, but who stays calm and gives you some good guidance. (Sheila Garton) One artistic saint who’ll volunteer to help when asked and who doesn’t complain when the project gets totally out of hand, both physically and financially. (Saint Sandy Milsom) One person, rock solid, who likes to prepare and plan things meticulously.

(David Garton)

Chartres Cathedral Labyrinth

Plus, two seasoned labyrinth makers from Holy Trinity Hurdsfield to share their expertise. (Rachel and Russell MortishireSmith) And a sprinkling of many wise and helpful words. (Members of the congregation, too many to mention by name.)

So, we all came together and the labyrinth turned out, pretty and good, so much better than I thought it would.

May God bless the labyrinth and all who walk through her. Amen.

Labyrinth HotPott - May 2026

Labyrinth in Village Hall Page 11

‘We go where others won’t’: Humanitarian Aid Relief Trust (HART) Here at St Christopher’s we give 10% of our income each year to support various Christian charities and missionaries that are special to us. This is called tithing, which is mandated in both the Old and the New Testaments in recognition of God’s provision and extravagant generosity to us.

HART is one of these charities.

David Gem We first supported HART a few years ago when we gave them £16,000 for the purchase of a van equipped to bring education to the children of villages in central Nigeria that had been ransacked, burnt and destroyed by Islamist militants.

This gift was possible due to a large legacy the church had received previously, and for which we still remain extremely grateful.

HART is a small charity with very low overheads employing around four full-time staff. They work through local agencies in those places often passed over by large charities and international agencies. It was started by Baroness Caroline Cox in 2004.

Caroline was originally a nurse but later moved into sociology and education; she was Deputy Speaker in the House of Lords from 1985 to 2005.

As HART state on their website: ‘We go where others won’t.’ Working through trusted local organisations, HART brings vital aid to people who are trapped behind closed borders, often outside the scope of major aid organisations and ignored by the international media. They provide a voice for the unheard, providing help and showing solidarity with communities who are persecuted, marginalised and Page 12

Baroness Caroline Cox

oppressed. Baroness Cox used her seat in the House of Lords to shine a light on forgotten conflicts. She also frequently travelled to places where others were unwilling or unable to go: readers may remember Hassan John, who worked for HART in Nigeria, telling us when he visited in December 2024 (See HotPott February 2025) that Caroline often had to be hurried away from danger hotspots! As Bishop Ben Kwashi of Nigeria said: ‘Others in the West offer to send aid to those who are persecuted – that aid may or may not arrive – but Baroness Cox comes herself.’

Sadly Caroline Cox no longer plays an active role in HART as she has Alzheimer’s, though she remains HART’s President Emeritus.

Some of HART’s work is described below: HotPott - May 2026

Women receive food aid in South Sudan

South Sudan: In the Blue Nile and Nuba Mountains districts, displaced families face hunger as local food stocks are declining quickly, made worse by climate shocks and the breakdown of markets and supply chains.

The previous military regime perpetrated atrocities at mosques, churches and schools. The population is cut off from outside help and children struggle to get an education because of armed violence, malnutrition and a critical shortage of

Lady Cox Rehabilitation Centre, Nagorno Karabakh, Armenia

teachers. A displaced person, Sumaya Baria Nur, said: ‘You are the first people to visit us. We fled without anything. When we came here, there was nobody to help us.’ Using funding provided by supporters, HART have reached thousands of displaced people with food, shelter, medicine and education.

Abyei Abyei is claimed by two countries: Sudan and South Sudan. It has no government, which creates confusion about who should deliver aid, and international organisations often choose not to engage as providing support for Abyei is deemed too complex, politically sensitive or outside their mandate. HART combines aid with advocacy to support these people in need.

They have built the region’s first library and teacher training centre, which local partners call a beacon of hope for Abyei.

Education programmes help children escape poverty and empower families to live healthier lives.

Armenia

Library floor in Abyei HotPott - May 2026

In the September 2024 edition of HotPott we learned about the ethnic cleansing of Armenians in Nagorno Karabakh by the Azerbaijani Military. 100,000 people, including 9,000 with disabilities, were displaced to Armenia and the Lady Cox continued → Page 13

Syria - Local women conserve seasonal food

School children with an education van, Nigeria

Rehabilitation Centre, which cared for children with autism and cerebral palsy as well as adults in chronic pain, was forced to close. In Armenia, state disability services are under-resourced and overstretched; thankfully the Lady Cox Rehabilitation Centre, which provides therapists, nurses and psychologists with a track record of delivering high-quality care to individuals with complex needs, was reestablished in Armenia last year.

to re-invest in their town and to boost the local economy. Economic sanctions imposed on Syria restrict access to food, fuel and medicine, which causes immense suffering for ordinary Syrians. Supported by three former British ambassadors to Syria, HART formed the Global Network for Syria to advocate for unimpeded access to humanitarian aid. The USA eventually lifted their economic sanctions in May 2025, which should help alleviate the food crisis, though economic problems and poor rainfall mean 6,000,000 to 6,990,000 Syrians needed food aid in February 2026.

In communities suffering from protracted conflict and poverty, HART believes advocacy is required as well as direct aid.

‘You are always by our side, our main source of encouragement. Hart’s support has helped us provide life-changing care to thousands of people with disabilities,’ says Vardan Tadevosyan, Director of the Lady Cox Rehabilitation Centre.

Syria In Syria, HART works in partnership with another charity, EPDC, to help combat food insecurity in Maaloula, a town north of Damascus that suffered terribly during the early part of the Syrian war.

The partnership helps to empower local women to prepare and conserve excess seasonal food for vulnerable families.

They purchase supplies from local markets and sell produce to generate an income.

The project is celebrated among local people and has contributed to the return of displaced families, who are incentivised Page 14

HART works in many other areas of the world, including Myanmar and Nigeria; we have written about this in HotPott September 2024 and February 2025 editions. It is encouraging to read of the difference the charity has made, both directly through its local partners and globally through its advocacy work; enabling communities to become independent of aid through education and training is immensely valuable, as is mediation work to decrease inter-racial and inter-faith tensions. The work of HART across the world is inspirational HotPott - May 2026

and something we at St Christopher’s wholeheartedly support. Please include HART and their work in your prayers, and why not sign up to receive their newsletters? More information, including

up to date news, is available on their website https://www.hart-uk.org and on the notice board at the back of church; please have a look – church is open for visitors every day of the week!

News from Malawi Helen and Megumi have written from Malawi. Helen’s international ladies’ meeting has been doing a Bible study on violence against women; specifically, they looked at Hagar, the servant girl to Abram and Sarai, who ran away into the desert after being sexually and then physically abused. As a slave, Hagar was considered as property so she had no rights. In the desert she met an angel of the Lord, who reassures her that her descendants will be numerous and that she should return to Abram and Sarai.

Kath Matheson

Helen & Megumi's two dogs when they were adopted 10 years ago

Hagar is the first person in Scripture to give a name to God: ‘You are the God who sees me …. I have now seen the One who sees me.’ (Genesis 16:13) God sees us all, even, or perhaps especially, those whom the world dismisses.

been asked to speak at their church men's meeting soon, in addition to preaching the next day. However, Megumi sees these 'interruptions' as blessings really, as he enjoys learning in his preparation for talks and sermons.

Megumi's work on the Revelation study guide has been interrupted again as he has

Meanwhile Helen continues to sell their belongings in preparation for moving back to the UK in autumn 2026. At least they have a home for their two dogs: as they are considered essential for guarding the property they will continue to live on the Fazakerley’s plot to help protect the house, their neighbours’ house and the SIM office Life in Malawi continues to be difficult, with severe fuel shortages in Blantyre.

Please pray for everyone there to have adequate supplies of fuel, food and clean water.

Hagar and Ishmael in the desert; Liška HotPott - May 2026

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Signs of New Life: April’s Prayer Walk April’s prayer walk fell on the Saturday of Easter weekend, variously known as Holy Saturday and Easter Saturday. Just the day before, Good Friday, we’d remembered the shocking events in Jerusalem 2,000 years ago. That Friday was anything but good for Jesus, or for those who had loved Him and had become His disciples. It was a day that brought into the light what can come out of a human heart: pride, envy, hatred, anger, cruelty, cowardice and betrayal, they all played their part in the gross injustice of Jesus receiving a death sentence.

Yvonne Foster On the Saturday, the Jewish Sabbath, Jesus’s dead body lay in the tomb.

Understanding what could possibly be good about Good Friday was still hidden, waiting to be revealed.

Yvonne & Sally

At the start of the walk Sally and I sit on the memorial bench by The Coffee Tavern.

We thought about Holy Saturday and chat about travelling through days of darkness, those periods in life when God’s ways cannot be comprehended, those times when we feel God is nowhere to be found.

We pray for those travelling through such times, praying that their faith would not fail and they would trust God. Walking across the fields we can see in the hedgerows buds beginning to burst open after the cold winter months. ‘Look!

What appears to be dead is alive,’ creation proclaims.

Tomorrow, Easter Day, we will hear the message the angel gave to the women who visited the tomb. ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for He has risen, as He said.’ (Matthew 28:5-6) Page 16

Hawthorn buds bursting HotPott - May 2026

Ducklings in the canal

Jesus’s death is transformed into a triumphant victory over sin in the human heart and the death it brings. But for now Sally and I stay with Holy Saturday, and as we walk and pray it is for those who are feeling confused, abandoned, disappointed, fearful, grief stricken.

Along the canal towpath Sally greets many of her friends and neighbours, who are also out walking, and in the canal we spot some ducklings. We see new life again as we pass a foal with its mother. We pray for the people, whether known or unknown, in the homes we pass, and once more as we pass Red Acre Hall Farm we commit its future to God in prayer.

The Coffee Tavern Fully License(\

A foal with its mother

We journey across the fields and back to The Coffee Tavern, where filled oatcakes, hot chocolate and a cup of tea are the order of the day.

Jesus said: ‘In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.’ (John 16:33) Thanks Sally, for sharing April’s Prayer Walk and for being a great encourager.

To give financially in support of St Christopher's Pott Shrigley Please scan the QR code below Thank you!

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There was a very gracious lady who was posting an old family Bible to her brother in another part of the country. “Is there anything breakable in here?” asked the postal clerk.

“Only the Ten Commandments,” answered the lady HotPott - May 2026

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HotPott - May 2026

Coffee Break Across 1 Overpowered (Deuteronomy 11:4) (11) 9 ‘The — are mantled with corn’ (Psalm 65:13) (7) 10 ‘Each man — a sword to his side’ (Exodus 32:27) (5) 11 On the death of Jesus the curtain in the temple was torn from — to bottom (Matthew 27:51) (3) 13 Stagger (Isaiah 28:7) (4) 16 ‘Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought —— and doesn’t do it, sins’ (James 4:17) (2,2) 17 Stir up or provoke (Acts13:50) (6) 18 Burden (Luke11:46) (4) 20 ‘As far as the east is from the —, so far has he removed our transgressions from us’ (Psalm 103:12) (4) 21 Sign (Luke23:38) (6) 22 ‘After that, Jesus poured water into a basin and began to — his disciples’ feet’ (John 13:5) (4) 23 The nature of the seven ears of corn which swallowed up the good ears in Pharaoh’s dream (Genesis 41:23) (4) 25 Has (anag.) (3) 28 ‘This is the account of Shem, Ham and Japheth, — sons’ (Genesis 10:1) (5) 29 ‘I will...make them drunk, so that they... sleep for—and — awake’ (Jeremiah 51:39) (4,3) 30 Paul said of him, ‘he often refreshes me and is not ashamed of my chains’ (2 Timothy 1:16) (11) Down 2 Worth (Matthew 13:46) (5) 3 ‘A bruised — He will not break’ (Matthew 12:20) (4) 4 ‘Suddenly a great company of the heavenly — appeared with the angel’ (Luke 2:13) (4) HotPott - May 2026

5 Slip (anag.) (4) 6 ‘Take an awl and push it through his — — into the door, and he will become your servant for life’ (Deuteronomy 15:17) (3,4) 7 Bountiful (2 Corinthians 8:2) (11) 8 ‘Therefore, as we have —, let us do good to all people’ (Galatians 6:10) (11) 12 Acquire (2 Timothy 2:10) (6) 14 Container cover (Numbers 19:15) (3) 15 ‘He...became obedient to death, even death on ——!’ (Philippians 2:8) (1,5) 19 Refrain (1 Peter2:11) (7) 20 ‘She began to — his feet with her tears’ (Luke 7:38) (3) 24 One who worships Brahma, Vishnu or Shiva (5) 25 ‘Give to everyone who — you’ (Luke6:30) (4) 26 ‘I lift up my eyes to the hills; where does my — come from?’ (Psalm 121:1) (4) 27 One of those whom the Lord said would be taken from Jerusalem and Judah as judgment on them (Isaiah 3:2) (4) Page 19

Pott Shrigley C of E Primary School Are you looking for small class sizes for your child?

All classes fewer than 15 pupils, throughout the school Warm, nurturing provision, with a family-like feel Weekly farm-based forest school Specialised sports provision

PLACES AVAILABLE Call for a personalised tour One of the oldest schools in Cheshire, nestled between Bollington and Poynton in the foothills of the Peak District.

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HotPott - May 2026

Fun, Chocolate and £885 What a night we had at Pott Shrigley School Chocolate Bingo Night – and what a brilliant success it turned out to be, raising an amazing £885!

Victoria Price The room was buzzing from the moment the first number was called. Prizes were flying out left, right and centre, and there were plenty of very happy winners walking away with their chocolatey goodies.

One of the absolute highlights of the evening was the legendary number sixseven*…. every time it was called, the whole room erupted into cheers and chants of ‘six-seven’, turning bingo into pure entertainment and laughter!

We were also treated to a wonderful spread, generously donated by Shrigley Hall, who provided a beautiful afternoon tea selection. The food was absolutely delicious and went down a treat with everyone attending.

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who supported the event whether you donated prizes, came along on the night, or helped behind the scenes. We truly couldn't have done it without you.

It was a night full of fun, community spirit, and (of course) chocolate. We're already looking forward to the next one! *For the uninitiated, like your editor, sixseven is an internet meme that went viral; it’s also the Oxford Children’s Slang Word of the Year for 2025 and Dictionary.com’s Word of the Year for 2025. It means absolutely nothing but is usually accompanied by equally meaningless hand movements. All designed to annoy parents. Nothing new there then…

HotPott - May 2026

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2026

Pott Shrigley Community Cinema

At Pott Shrigley Village Hall SK10 5RT

DOORS OPEN 6.30 pm FILM STARTS 7.30 pm

6th May - The Choral

Historical Drama starring Ralph Fiennes, Mark Allam & Alun Armstrong

3rd June - H is for Hawk Biographical Drama starring Claire Foy

Ticket agents: - Anthea Wilkinson (01625 573538) (and St Oswald’s church, Bollington)

- Peter M Boulton (01625 876646) E-mail pottflix@gmail.com https://sites.google.com/site/pottflix/

Suggested donation: in advance £4 : on the door £5 CROSSWORD SOLUTION

“Your magazine needs you.” n’t Do rget fo

Please send your contributions to

magazine@pottshrigleychurch.org.uk no later than midnight on.....

Tuesday, 12th May www.pottshrigleychurch.org.uk

Proof reader next month is Caroline Booth HotPott - May 2026

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HotPott - May 2026

Meet the McCleans Regular readers will be familiar with our Missionary Matters articles, but we thought it might be helpful to newer readers to tell them a little more about our missionary partners: who are they, what do they do?

Read on for enlightenment!

Rebecca Roth-Biester Ann and Johnny McClean have been St Christopher's Church's missionary partners since 2001. They were introduced to us by our then vicar, Rev. John Buckley; they met whilst both the McCleans and the Buckleys were serving in Thailand prior to John and Christine Buckley returning to the UK, following which John was ordained before eventually becoming our vicar.

Ann and Johnny have a lifelong commitment to Thailand and East Asia gospel ministry. They have lived in Thailand for over 30 years and both speak, read and write fluent Thai. They have had the privilege of discipling many Thai believers over the years.

The McCleans are supported by several churches across the UK and Ireland. Their sending church is Borras Park Church in Wrexham. Other supporting churches include St John's Lindow, Christchurch Greenbank, St John's Hartford, Holy Trinity Macclesfield, Beeston Free Nottingham and Emmanuel Baptist Lisburn.

Their ministry has changed over the years.

They spent several years evangelising and encouraging students on university campuses but currently Ann is serving as a full-time teacher at International Community School (ICS) in Bangkok.

HotPott - May 2026

International Community School, Bangkok

This is a Christian school teaching both Thai and expat families in the area. Ann teaches English and runs Bible study classes and evangelistic camps; she also helps lead (with Lhing, the pastor’s wife) the Sunday School at their church, New City Fellowship. In 2024 Johnny became the East Asia coordinator for Langham Preaching, a role which necessitates travel to Laos, Vietnam and the Philippines among other places. Johnny also has a lead role at New City Fellowship Church alongside the pastor, Pramote. Johnny and Ann have also advocated for refugees and provided hospitality in their home for many Christians who have needed a place to stay.

Johnny and Ann are long-term mission partners with UFM Worldwide, an evangelical mission agency that partners with churches to send and support gospel workers across the world. UFM focuses on cross-cultural mission, unreached people, long-term discipleship and caring well for missionaries and their sending churches.

For further information please visit: www. ufm.org.uk and continued →

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Thinking about advertising in this magazine?

For commercial or private advertising, please contact us for free advice and very reasonable rates: magazine@pottshrigleychurch.org.uk

Page 26

HotPott - May 2026

www.ufm.org.uk/member/johnny-annmcclean/ In June, Johnny and Ann are moving to Udon Thani in northeast Thailand for the next phase of their ministry. Johnny will be geographically better placed (in some ways) for his Langham Preaching role and Ann will be mentoring and supporting teachers at ICS Udon Thani. Both will be looking for ways to bring the love of Christ to this corner of Thailand, where many have never heard the Gospel. See updates in future HotPotts!

Editor.

Johnny amd Ann's new house in Udon Thani

*** Two men were working for the town council. One would dig a hole and the other would follow behind him and fill the hole in. They worked up one side of the street, then down the other, then moved on to the next street, working furiously all day without rest, one man digging a hole, the other filling it in again.

An onlooker was amazed at their hard work, but couldn’t understand what they were doing. So he finally approached the hole digger, “I’m impressed by the effort you two are putting in to your work, but I don’t get it – why do you dig a hole, only to have your partner follow behind and fill it up again?”

The hole digger wiped his brow and sighed, “Well, I suppose it probably looks odd because we’re normally a three-person team. But today the guy who plants the trees called in sick.” *** Church Cleaning Rota 1st May

Mary & Ivan

8th May

Joy & David

15th May

Shirley & Christine

22nd May

Sally & Yvonne

29th May

Caroline & Jean

5th June

Ros & Madeline

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Pott Shrigley Village Hall Bar 2nd Friday of every month, 6.30 'til 10.00pm

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8th 12t May h Ju ne

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INTERIOR SERVICES Full & part home renovations Project management Joinery Plastering Heating/plumbing & electrical Kitchens & bathrooms Painting & decorating Wallpaper hanging Venetian plastering Tiling Hand painted kitchens

EXCEPTIONAL FROM START TO FINISH “Incredibly pleased with the renovation work by Spring Decorating. The work involved the replastering of several rooms, replacing internal doors, bannisters, spindles, radiators and then redecorating. All f inished to a very high standard, which I am delighted with.

The team was professional, eff icient and f riendly. I wouldn’t hesitate to have them back in the future.”

Review verif ied by Which? Trusted Traders

0161 439 9195 info@springdecorating.co.uk www.springdecorating.co.uk

Fully insured and highly accredited Superb attention to detail

17 Earle Road, Bramhall, SK7 3HE

Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

Page 30

HotPott - May 2026

EXTERIOR SERVICES Exterior painting & decorating Rendering & K Rend Joinery uPVC window spraying Scaffolding

PROMPT AND EFFICIENT “We are delighted with the work by Spring Decorating. The response to our query was quick and a quote followed promptly. Work started a couple of weeks later on the outside of our house. The team always arrived exactly when they said they would and were totally reliable, pleasant and courteous.

The work was thorough, with excellent preparation and looks very good. We will certainly use them again for more work.”

Review verif ied by Which? Trusted Traders

0161 439 9195 info@springdecorating.co.uk www.springdecorating.co.uk

Fully insured and highly accredited Superb attention to detail

17 Earle Road, Bramhall, SK7 3HE

Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

HotPott - May 2026

Page 31

BARROWS TRADITIONAL BUTCHERS

Est since 1890

1 Henshall Road, Bollington.

Tel: 01625 572110

Recipe of the Month: Easy Chocolate Brownies I wasn’t sure that we’d all had enough chocolate over Easter, hence Celia’s delicious recipe…

Who doesn’t love a squidgy brownie?!

I’ve tried quite a few recipes, but this one (adapted from the National Trust), is the ONLY one you’ll ever need!

Celia Fraser Ingredients: 185g (about 1 bar or 6½oz) dark chocolate 50g (2oz) white chocolate (chopped) 50g (2oz) milk chocolate (chopped) 185g (6½oz) butter 3 eggs 275g (9½oz) caster sugar 85g (2oz) plain flour 40g (1oz) cocoa powder or drinking chocolate 1teaspoon baking powder

wobble in the centre when it comes out of the oven.

Cool the tin on a wire rack, then peel off the parchment – can be cut to whatever size you want, Makes about 12 smaller ones or 6 doorsteps!

Method: Heat oven to 180°C/gas mark 4.

Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a bowl (over boiling water or in the microwave).

In another bowl, put the eggs and sugar and whisk together.

In a third bowl, sieve the flour, cocoa and baking powder together.

Add the melted butter/chocolate to the egg and sugar mix, beating it all together and then fold in the flour and cocoa mix.

Add the chopped pieces of white and milk chocolate and fold through.

Pour into a traybake tin (30cm x 20cm x 3cm) lined with baking parchment. Bake for 25 to 30 mins -it should still have a good HotPott - May 2026

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Services 3rd May 8.30am 10.45am

Holy Communion Holy Communion‡**

2 Thessalonians 3 v 1–5 Mark 1 v 35–39

Lynn Caudwell

Holy Communion Morning Worship‡** †

Exodus 33 v 7–11 Matthew 6 v 5–15

Lynne Bowden

Holy Communion Morning Worship**

Ephesians 3 v 14–21 Mark v 9 v 14–29

Lynn Caudwell

Holy Communion Morning Worship‡**†

Acts 2 v 1-21 John 20 v 19-23

Anne Murphy

Holy Communion Morning Worship‡**

Genesis 1 v 1-2:4a Matthew 28 v 16-20

Lynn Caudwell

Holy Communion Holy Communion †

Isaiah 62 v 10–12 Matthew 21 v 1–17

Lynne Bowden

10th May 8.30am 10.45am

17th May 8.30am 10.45am

24th May 8.30am 10.45am

31st May 8.30am 10.45am

7th June.

8.30am 10.45am •

All services underlined in blue will be streamed live on our Facebook Page & YouTube channel.

• A recording of each live-streamed service will be available from the services page of the church website: ‡ Junior Church **Youth Church (at 10.45am) † Refresh Youth Group (at 7.00pm) Rota

Readers

Prayers

Sidesmen at 8.30 Sidesmen at 10.45

Coffee

3rd May

Anne Murphy & Jean Ferguson

Anne Murphy

Annie Palace

Reg & Jean Ferguson

Caroline & Steve

10th May

Sharon McMullan & Judy Keeling

Pam Cooke

Jim Curtis

Judith Harris & Ang Davies

Ros & Madeline

17th May

Matt Bird & Victoria Price

Sandy Milson

Annie Palace

Meg Bailey & Jill MacDougall

Yvonne & Annie

24th May

Tony Witkowski & Sharon McMullen

Audrey Bomford

Jenny Miles & Annie Smith

David & Joy Whitehead

The Malyan family Frances & Meg

31st May

Mike Akerman & Anne Murphy

Anne Murphy

Annie Palace

Mike & Sue Akerman

Gill + volunteer needed

7th June

Tony Witkowski & Paul Bowden

Simon Caudwell

Jim Curtis

Tony & Rachel Witkowski

Joy & David

Page 34

HotPott - May 2026

Directory Priest-in-charge:

Rev. Lynn Caudwell

(please prefix numbers with 01625)

vicar@pottshrigleychurch.org.uk Assistant Priest

Rev. Lynne Bowden a.curate@btinternet.com

Ordinand

Melissa Wearden, melissa.wearden@emmanueltc.org.uk

574660 01663 732097

Licensed Pastoral Worker Anne Murphy, 14 Silver Street, Bollington, SK10 5QL

07891 953919

Churchwardens:

07881 358976

Andy Phillips, 26 Hurst Lane, Bollington, SK10 5LP andyphillips@totalise.co.uk Jean Ferguson , 17, Poplar Grove, Bollington, Macclesfield, SK10 5LS jeanfergusonuk@msn.com

Verger:

Situation Vacant

PCC Secretary:

Rebecca Roth-Biester, beccacourtney@gmail.com

PCC Treasurer:

Peter Kennedy, kennedyp@tuckerssolicitors.com

261361 07762 649990

07850 740335

Gift Aid & Planned Giving: Sally Winstanley, 3 Green Close Cottages, Pott Shrigley, SK10 5SG

574545

sjwinstanley.ps@gmail.com Organists:

Mary Currell, 61 Crossfield Road, Bollington, SK10 5EA

573735

marycurrell61@btinternet.com David Garton, davidgarton2020@gmail.com

573492

Andy Phillips, as above

07881 358976

Weekly Bulletin:

Annie Palace, anniepalace04@gmail.com

07401 824669

Electoral Roll officer

Kath Matheson, Church View Cottage, Pott Shrigley, SK10 5SA

07944 624832

kmmpott@yahoo.co.uk Safeguarding officer:

Kath Matheson, safeguarding@pottshrigleychurch.org.uk

Tower Captain:

Duncan Matheson, Church View Cottage, Pott Shrigley, SK10 5SA

07854 884145

dmmpott@yahoo.co.uk Pastoral Ministry:

Anne Murphy, pastoralteam@pottshrigleychurch.org.uk

Children's Ministry

Melissa Wearden, melissa.wearden@emmanueltc.org.uk

Youth Ministry:

Melissa Wearden, as above

Parish Council Clerk:

Jo Deahl, clerk@pottshrigley-pc.gov.uk

Wedding Coordinator:

Pam Cooke, weddings@pottshrigleychurch.org.uk

Head Teacher:

Mr Nathan Henaghan, Pott Shrigley Church School, SK10 5RT

07891 953919

573260

head@pottshrigley.cheshire.sch.uk Website:

Tess Phillips, 26 Hurst Lane, Bollington, SK10 5LP

PCC Members:

Duncan Matheson, Sally Winstanley, Peter Kennedy, Jean Ferguson, Andy Phillips, Pam Cooke, Mary Currell, Mike Akerman, Ang Davies, Simon Caudwell Rebecca Roth-Biester, Sheila Garton, David Garton, David Gem, Annie Palace, Kath Matheson, Reg Ferguson, Anne Murphy.

info@pottshrigleychurch.org.uk

This directory was updated on 7th February 2026. Please give corrections and additions to magazine@pottshrigleychurch.org.uk