IT IS
FINISHED
EASTER EDITION
THEHISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCEOF EASTER
EASTER GREETING
ADMINISTRATIVE BISHOP
HOW IS YOUR CHURCH CONNECTING
AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH
“ITIS FINISHED”
John 19:30
CONNECT
AIMS & OBJECTIVES
A Relevant, Relational Church, Reimagining God at work, in our communities and nation.
CONNECT is a quarterly publication from the Office of the Administrative Bishop. This will be published digitally and posted on our website for your viewing.
Please click HERE to subscribe.
Encouraging Spiritual Growth: Helping each other grow in faith through prayer, sharing the Word, and church activities.
Improving Communication: Keeping members directly updated about church activities, decisions and personnel changes, so that you are informed about your church
Building Community: Strengthening connections between members through this medium.
Supporting Each Other: Encouraging involvement in and keeping you informed about local and national events.
Celebrating Together: Recognising and celebrating important moments in the lives of our ministers and members to uplift and encourage each other.
www ntcg org uk/connect
Editor’s Note
Dear Reader,
I hope you enjoy reading Issue 4 of the NTCG National Connect Magazine; the aim is to Connect members of the New Testament Church of God to its leadership and to each other.
This edition features our Administrative Bishop's Greeting, Bishop Winston Taylor's insight into the historical significance of Easter, and Bishop Prince Chambers's highlighting of the concept that physical healing is part of the atonement of Jesus.
Join the international celebration of Autism Awareness Month, which takes place in April This month provides an opportunity to raise awareness, promote acceptance, and advocate for inclusion for autistic individuals.
As with every issue of the Connect Magazine, we hope you will be inspired and motivated to continue connecting with your church and community.
Enjoy!
MrsNastassiaHolness Commissioning Editor
Editorial support required
We're looking for volunteers with proofreading experience and an eye for detail. If you are interested, please email: Nastassia holness@ntcg
Take time to reflect
#Inspiration
#StayMotivated
Nastassia Holness
Commissioning Editor
MESSAGE
MESSAGE
Topic: “It is Finished”
Scripture: John 19:30 (NIV)
When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
There is something poignant about a person’s last words before they die. They create meaning that outlives the person who speaks them, because they reveal what's in our hearts and what we truly value And so, as we reflect on Jesus's last sayings, none is more important than, “It is Finished,” found only in the Gospel of John. The Greek word translated as “It is finished” is tetelestai. The question I have always had is, what is finished? What exactly was Jesus referring to here?
Tetelestai was used in three ancient contexts: firstly, it was used in a business context to state that a debt was fully paid, it was used in a judicial context declaring that justice had been fully served, and it was used in a military context stating that a battle had been won. So, when Jesus announced those words, “It is finished”, he had each one of those contexts in mind This was not only an announcement to the world, but an invitation to those who would believe. Inviting us to trust in His finished work. As when we do, we are figuratively putting the blood of the lamb over the doorposts of our lives
What does "It is Finished" mean for us today?
·Christ has overcome
He has won the victory, and that through Him, we are more than conquerors
·It means there’s nothing we can ever do outside our relationship with Him to earn God’s love
It means we don’t have to live under the weight of condemnation, guilt, or shame
·It means we have purpose, hope, healing and eternal life through Him
Conclusion
God has called each and every one of us to finish life well (Philippians 1:6) This Easter, if you are holding on to pain, grief, frustration or addiction, remember God already has victory for you and for me through his redemptive work at Calvary. That means His finished line is our starting point, even when symptoms persist, we are encouraged to walk in faith, seeing ourselves healed at the cross. If we haven’t questioned whether we are saved, but have confidence in Jesus as our Lord and Saviour In the same way, we ought to have confidence in Jesus as our Lord and Healer Healing is as simple as getting saved; we just need to believe.
Wishing you all a blessed Easter, filled with the joy and hope of the resurrection.
“I want to know Christ yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,” Philippians 3:10NIV
As we celebrate Easter, we are invited to reflect not only on the historical event of Jesus’ death and resurrection but also on the ways it connects with our lives today. The resurrection is more than just a moment in the past, it is a living, transformative reality that has mystically and supernaturally connected us to the divine “For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his ” Romans 6:5 NIV
In churches around the world, this season reminds us that the resurrection is not merely an isolated event; it is the key to understanding how we are called to live today. The risen Christ is a living presence, offering us a relationship with God that transcends time and place Churches, in their proclamation of the resurrection, bridge the gap between the ancient story of Jesus and our present-day struggles, joys, and hopes. Through the lens of the resurrection, we see how God's love and grace connect us to something greater than ourselves, and how that connection can bring healing, peace, and transformation
The resurrection offers hope in a world often filled with hopelessness and despair. For those who have encountered the pain of loss, it is easy to feel disconnected from God, from others, and even from our own sense of identity Yet the resurrection reminds us that we are never truly alone. Christ’s victory over death is a powerful reminder that God’s love cannot be overcome by anything, not even the darkest moments of our lives This assurance that God is always with us allows us to stay connected to hope, even in the midst of suffering and injustice.
Through the resurrection, we are also invited to connect with one another in new ways The New Testament Church of God is a community united in faith, where people from all walks of life find common ground in the shared experience of God's grace. As Christ connects us to God, we are empowered to connect with others, offering hope and working together to bring God’s kingdom on earth
The resurrection has connected us to the fullness of life in Christ, demonstrating that beyond it being a promise of life after death, it is God’s promise of abundant life available to us here and now When we embrace the resurrection, we are called to live with a renewed sense of purpose, loving God, loving our neighbours, and seeking justice in a world that desperately needs it. The resurrection connects our faith with our actions, reminding us that we are to be agents of change in our communities and in the world
In this Easter season, let us endeavour to be more like him and remember that the resurrection is not just an event to be commemorated once a year but a reality to be lived out every moment of every day Let it be the living hope that connects us to God’s eternal love and to one another. As you celebrate this year, may I encourage you to open your hearts to the ways the resurrection calls us to deeper connection, greater love, and renewed purpose as the Church
Happy Easter! May the risen Christ connect us all in ways that transform the world around us.
Bishop Claion Grandison Administrative Bishop
THEHISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCEOF EASTER
The Christian Church enjoys a range of festivals such as Christmas, Holy Week, Ascension Day and Pentecost, but the principal festival it celebrates is Easter. Millions of Christian believers, all over the world, will take the time to celebrate this day with a unique sense of joy and gladness as – with great reverence and joy - they commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead on the third day following His Crucifixion Only a few days earlier, on the Friday of the week, His death on the cross and burial in a tomb, left Jesus’ disciples distraught, but when He arose from the dead, having fulfilled His promise to do so after 3 days, hope was restored and the message spread abroad, ‘He has risen’. As Jesus’ exact birth date is not known, the exact date of His death and resurrection is not recorded; what we do know is that Easter is linked to the Jewish festival of Passover, in fact, Passover was taking place when Jesus died As the Passover is not held on the same date each year, so it is with Easter
The Council of Nicaea (325 AD) made a ruling that Easter be observed on the first Sunday that follows the first full moon after the spring equinox, which is fixed on the 21st of March. This means that Easter’s date varies each year, falling between the 21st, 22nd of March and the 25th of April Easter is not only important for spiritual reasons, but also because it has changed many things in our world. It has inspired the writing and composition of many songs, it has been the stimulus and creativity behind great art, and has helped create traditions such as feasts, games and activities that people still follow today For many people around the world, Easter is a time to think about their faith, feel renewed, and celebrate together with family and friends.
Historical Facts
Easter - as the day of Jesus’ resurrection - is now observed by most Christians; some Messianic Jews do not celebrate the specific day, whilst other groups refuse the day or minimise its significance due to theological reasons.
However, whatever the ecclesiastical, doctrinal or scriptural tensions that may exist within the Christian family, we all agree that Jesus Christ rose from the dead and this historical fact - His resurrection - is and always has been - the very substratum of our faith, the very cornerstone of Christian belief.
Hope and Renewal
In some cultures, Easter is associated with Easter eggs and bunnies, and we must be careful to remember two things: these pagan practices have nothing to do with what took place when Jesus rose from the dead, and in order to preserve the historical significance of the day, it is essential that we avoid teaching our children to associate Easter eggs with the Resurrection Easter and the Resurrection is about hope and renewal –not just for us as believers, but for the entire world The true meaning of Easter – the resurrection - offers hope for us all, signifying victory over sin and death - for us all; 1 Corinthians 15:20-22 tells us, “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep, for as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive ”
Easter, then, is not just a day to celebrate the past but a living symbol of hope for the future As we reflect on the Resurrection, may we be inspired to live with greater joy, unity, and a deeper understanding of the hope that Easter brings to all
Leicester Telford Rehoboth Dudley
NTCG Dudley
“Good Friday on the Green affirms our heart to be a church that is present and purposeful in our community”.
This Easter, the New Testament Church of God Dudley is stepping beyond the church walls and into the heart of the community with Good Friday on the Green weather permitting. Set to take place in a prominent green space within the community of Woodside, Dudley, this outdoor gathering is more than just a service it’s a vibrant celebration of faith, fellowship, and the transformative power of the gospel of Jesus Christ
In the lead-up to the event, the church is actively canvassing the community with invitations, ensuring that everyone in the neighbourhood can be part of this special day As a church family, we believe Easter is one of the most powerful reminders of God’s love for humanity The message of the cross and the hope of the resurrection are too important to keep within four walls. That’s why Good Friday on the Green has been embraced as an extension of our worship a chance to bring the church to the people We know that for many, walking into a church building can feel intimidating or unfamiliar But Jesus’ message is for everyone, regardless of background or circumstance. This event offers an open, welcoming atmosphere where the gospel is shared in a way that’s real, relatable, and accessible The service will include vibrant worship, scripture reading, testimonies, and the sharing of God’s Word. We will also participate in the Lord’s Supper.
Light refreshments will follow Our aim is for attendees to not only hear the gospel, but to experience it through creativity, compassion, and genuine community connection. It’s church but without walls.
If the weather proves unfavourable, we are fully prepared to host the community indoors, ensuring the celebration goes on in a warm and welcoming environment
Good Friday on the Green also affirms our heart to be a church that is present and purposeful in our community. Being in Woodside means more than just having a postcode it means having a passion to uplift, serve, and walk alongside those around us Whether through prayer, support, or simply offering a place to belong, we want Woodside to know we’re here, and we care.
In a world searching for meaning, peace, and connection, Easter reminds us that Jesus came close He lived among us, loved us, and gave His life for us Now more than ever, the church is called to do the same
My wife, Sis Jody-Kay Bradley, and I along with the entire NTCG Dudley family look forward to a powerful day of worship, fellowship, and community.
Easter isn’t just something to celebrate it’s something to share.
Good Friday on the Green
Bishop Michael Bradley Senior Pastor NTCG Dudley & District Overseer
NTCG REHOBOTH
Community Project
“How is your church connecting this Easter”.
NTCG Rehoboth will be hosting an evangelism drive and community outreach project. We operate a community group for the over-fifties known as "Glory Days Community Group " , which has been in operation for eight years
We have acquired two allotments from Lewisham council, which are being developed by members from the Glory Days Community group and volunteers.
They plant various types of vegetables, which are then used to raise funds to help support those in our church and community.
To find out how you can get involved or support our community project, please click HERE
Glory Days Community Group
Pastor Carla Thomas
Senior Pastor NTCG Rehoboth
THERE IS HEALING IN THE ATONEMENT
“THE MOST TRANSCENDENTAL EVENT THAT HAS EVER OCCURRED OR THAT WILL EVER OCCUR”.
Bruce R. McConkie said: “The Atonement of Christ is the most transcendental event that has ever occurred or that will ever occur, since the sunrise of creation to all ages of eternity” Atonement, often linked to the concept of sacrifice, refers to the act of reconciling or restoring a broken relationship between God and man, particularly through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ The concept of healing is deeply intertwined with the atonement, suggesting that Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross not only forgives sins but also provides a pathway to healing, both physically and spiritually.
Healing, in this context, is often understood as the restoration of both physical and spiritual well-being, made possible through Christ’s sacrificial act This idea suggests that through Jesus’ atonement, believers experience not only forgiveness of sins but also the opportunity for profound healing in every aspect of their lives One of the most significant elements of healing in the atonement is the idea of spiritual healing. According to the Bible, sin has separated humanity from God, causing both spiritual and emotional wounds The atonement, through Jesus’ sacrifice, offers the opportunity to repair this separation, restoring the relationship between humanity and God. By accepting Christ’s sacrifice, individuals are cleansed from sin, and this spiritual healing enables them to experience peace, joy, and reconciliation with their Creator.
The Apostle Paul explains in Romans 5:10 that, “For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life?” This reconciliation brings spiritual healing, allowing individuals to find wholeness and purpose in their relationship with God. Moreover, healing in the atonement is not limited to spiritual restoration; it also extends to physical healing Throughout the New Testament, Jesus performed numerous healings, restoring sight to the blind, healing the sick, and even raising the dead
These miracles are seen not only as demonstrations of Jesus’ compassion and divine authority but also as signs of the greater healing that His atonement offers. In Isaiah 53:5, a passage often referenced in discussions of atonement, it is prophesied that the Messiah would bear the stripes and wounds for humanity’s healing: “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed ” The concept here is that the suffering of Christ on the cross provides a basis for both spiritual and physical healing
Finally, healing in the atonement has implications for the community Through Christ’s sacrifice, believers are called to share in His healing ministry, reaching out to others with the hope of restoration The Church, as the body of Christ, is meant to be a place where people experience the healing power of the atonement, offering support, encouragement, and love to those who are broken This communal aspect of healing reflects the fullness of the atonement, which not only restores individuals but also heals relationships and brings unity to the body of Christ.
AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH
LISTEN UNDERSTAND SUPPORT
AUTISM(ASD)
What is Autism (ASD)
ASD stands for Autism Spectrum Disorder Autism is a lifelong condition that affects how a person perceives and relates to the world around them The term ‘spectrum’ is used as no two people are the same All people with Autism share certain strengths and difficulties, but these will affect each individual in different ways
People with Autism experience difficulties in:
Social Communication and Interaction
Restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities
Sensory preference and sensitivities
WhatdoesASDlooklike?
If you have autism you may learn to cope by developing routines and if these are interrupted, you’ll find it very
stressful making unexpected changes in life sometimes quite a struggle.
You may also find challenging how you experience sights, sounds or touch.
School can be a tough place when you have autism.
You really need support from your family, friends and your school who will know a lot about how to help you when you ’ re not finding things easy They will be able to support with putting different plans in place to make things easier for you Download autism pack for parents and carers(pdf)
Indicators for early age autism
Difficulty in understanding others’ feelings (referrer may describe it as “lack of empathy”)
Isolating / school refusing
Problems with social relationships and/or lack of interest in others
Known difficulties with social communication
Repetitive / ritualistic behaviour, or intense obsessive interest
Extreme reactions / black and white thinking, including emotional dysregulation or highly controlling behaviour
High levels of anxiety related to transitions and/or change
Sensory issues
Chronic constipation that is not explained by physical health; epilepsy
Speech delay, SALT input, Selective mutism; language which is unusual for age and culture (e.g. American accent, but never lived in US; vocabulary well above that of peers)
History of ASD / other neurodevelopmental conditions in the family
Previous services involved, ie Educational Psychologist/Behaviour Support Service, and outcome
Stands out from other children of the same age (in the family or elsewhere) or just connects with children with similar presentation
Previous and current behaviour plans in place and outcome; are ASD friendly techniques being utilised with good effect?
Common experiences
If you have ASD or autism you may sometimes:
struggle to get on with people socially find it hard to understand other people’s emotions and feelings find it difficult to clearly understand what people are saying take things literally when they’re not meant that way or find sarcasm or jokes confusing play in a repetitive way, preferring to play with objects rather than people have difficulty starting conversations or taking part in them properly develop a strong interest in particular activities or topics
enjoy having a familiar routine
For more information, visit: https://www oxfordhealth nhs uk/camhs/self-care/asd/
Victoria
Lawrence
Jesus showed compassion to people who were marginalized or overlooked
Victoria Lawrence is an ordained minister, Council member of Churches in Communities and Director of Missions at Christ Royal Church International, UK She is a visionary leader and the founder of The Father’s Joy charity. Her passion for inclusion meant that she obtained level 7 in the strategic approach to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Passionate about Advocacy, speaking up for the oppressed and marginalised members of society, especially women and families of children with Special Needs, born out of her own personal experience, she has used her life story to lift and support other families
Victoria has been interviewed on various TV channels, including BBC Songs of Praise where she shared a compelling story of strength, faith, fear and hope in her journey of raising her daughter diagnosed with autism, ADHD, epilepsy, global developmental delay and enuresis.
She is a Certified CQ and Inclusive Leadership Trainer/facilitator with cultural intelligence Canter, USA. Awarded winner of the Wise Woman Award, Inspirational Woman of the Year, Woman for African award, Mother to three amazing champions and above all, a firm believer in the power of prayer and the Word!
Angel Special Programme
The Father’s Joy is a faith- based charity providing support for families raising children with special needs and empowering women and men to be who God called them to be We help people to discover, experience and live in the Joy of the Father. An arm of our charity is a project called Angel Special Program
Angel Special Programme
Throughout his ministry, Jesus showed compassion to people who were marginalised or overlooked, including those with disabilities, demonstrating that God’s love is for everyone. We believe that to enable is to provide adequate support in order for someone to access what they need
Angel Special Needs Project (ASP) supports families of children with special needs. This program provides one-to-one support for all, especially people of faith who struggle with the challenges of faith, healing and disability. It operates under 4 ‘C’ Church, Carers, Connect and Commit
Inclusive Church Workshop
One of the things we do is run Neurodivergent workshops for Church workers to equip those supporting these communities and their families, by creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed You can read more about our work by visiting our website at www.thefathersjoy.org.uk.
How you or your church can support us
We are a very small charity and always rely on churches and individual support to help us continue our work We provide FREE Christmas hampers for families, organise day trips to the beach every year with pick-up buses from 5 locations in the UK, and we run activity clubs during school holidays
Every Person is valuable
The Bible teaches that every person is valuable, loved, and has a unique role in God’s plan. Neurodivergence is not a flaw but a reflection of the diversity in God’s creation
The Christian response should be one of acceptance, support, and inclusion. The month of April is Autism Awareness Month Why not do something for the neurodivergent people in your church?
Unlocking God’s word for every heart
WYCLIFFE BIBLE TRANSLATORS’ VISION IS FOR A WORLD WHERE EVERYONE CAN KNOW JESUS THROUGH THE BIBLE
Pastor Bagne from Senegal is one of the many people around the world working to bring that vision to reality.
Bible translation is a foundational part of world mission. The Bible is the primary way that people can know the transforming truth about Jesus Yet, 1 in 5 people don’t yet have the Bible in their language. For these people, the message God communicated through the Bible is locked in a language they can’t understand.
John Wycliffe, who was born over 700 years ago, was the first person to translate the Bible into English. Now, the organisation that is named after John Wycliffe works with local translators to unlock the truth of the Bible through translating it into the languages people understand. One of those translators is Pastor Bagne from Senegal, whose journey from being a communist politician to becoming a Bible translator to show the difference the Bible makes.
Journey Through Politics to Faith
While 97% of people in Senegal are Muslim, Bagne Ndione was born into a Christian family in Senegal. His parents were farmers, and he witnessed first-hand the poverty of post-colonial Senegal.
This motivated him to seek change through politics, leading him to join the communist party in Senegal and later to spend a year studying communism in Moscow.
Though many Senegalese cannot read French, Bagne’s education allowed him to read the Bible “The wisdom of God is superior to that of man,” he realised Revelation 3:20 deeply moved him: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock ” Bagne says, “The Bible gave me a new way to see the world. That is what made me decide to follow Jesus And my whole life was transformed ”
Answering God’s Call
Transformed by Scripture, Bagne was to serve by translating the Bible so others could experience the truth of the Bible like he had “Lives are transformed,” he says, “through contact with the word of God.” Now, Bagne leads a new project translating the Bible into Contemporary Wolof, spoken by over 16 million people in Senegal. “It’s the language of the young,” he explains, noting that over 60% of Senegal’s population is under 30 “Our goal is to reach the maximum number of people,” Bagne says “The Contemporary Wolof translation will allow the vast majority of Senegalese to access God’s Word.”
His team depends on partnerships with people like you who pray and support the work financially. “We cannot do this alone,” he says “Everyone has a role ” For Bagne, the mission is clear: “Everyone has the right to access the Word of God literate or illiterate, rich or poor We are all equal before God Bible translation into every language must become a reality.”
To book a Wycliffe speaker for your church: visit wycliffe.org.uk/speaker form or call us on 0300 303 1111
Bagne worshiping in his church in Senegal
METHOD
Preheat oven to 350° 1. Grease pan generously and set aside 2
THE INGREDIENTS
:
3 Cups Flour
1 Cup Dark Sugar
1 Bottle Stout
2 Tablespoons Butter
1 Teaspoon Cinnamon
1-2 Tablespoons Mixed Spice
1/4 Teaspoon Nutmeg
2 Tablespoons Vanilla
3 Teaspoons Baking Powder
1 Egg
1-2 teaspoons Marmalade
1 Tablespoon Honey
1-2 Tablespoons Browning
1 Tablespoon Molasses (Optional)
Raisins Cherries (Optional)
Heat stout, sugar, molasses, honey, butter and browning 3.
Stir until the sugar dissolves 4
Allow to cool, then add vanilla 5.
Mix all dry ingredients 6
Add egg, blend, then pour into the greased pan 7
Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean 8. Apply glaze when cool 9.
GLAZE
10. 1/2 Cup of sugar
11 1/2 Cup of water
Boil together to form a thick syrup
Mrs Elise Welds
EASTER
Bitesize
Hop over to the next page and see if you can spot the difference and complete a short workbook. For children 6 - 12.
EASTER SHORT HISTORY
Instructions: Read the following passage and answer the four questions in your workbooks.
Easter is a special holiday that is celebrated by Christians all around the world It is a time to remember and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ
According to the Bible, Jesus was crucified on a Friday, which is now known as Good Friday. Three days later, on a Sunday, Jesus rose from the dead This event is known as the resurrection, and it is one of the most important events in the Christian faith.
Christians believe that Jesus died to save us from our sins This means that he took the punishment for all the bad things we have done so that we wouldn't have to be punished ourselves
The historical accounts of Jesus' death and resurrection are primarily recorded in the New Testament of the Bible However, several non-Christian historical texts from the ancient world also reference Jesus' death. For example, the Roman historian Tacitus wrote about the crucifixion of Jesus and the persecution of Christians in the early years of the Roman Empire. The Jewish historian Flavius Josephus also mentions Jesus in his writings
Easter is typically celebrated between March 22nd and April 25th. The exact date changes each year because it is determined by the lunar calendar and the spring equinox
Word Hunt EASTER Easter SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
Use your finger to highlight words related to Easter.
Spot the differences between the two pictures.
NTCG BIBLE IN A YEAR CHALLENGE
NTCG BIBLE IN A YEAR CHALLENGE
Most Christians never completely read the whole Bible Many people start reading the Bible but then become overwhelmed by the number of chapters (1,189) and verses (31,102) there are. What we don't realize is that we can read the Bible in a year by reading fewer than four chapters a day. By dividing the Bible into 365 daily readings, your goal of reading the Bible in a year can easily be accomplished, so let us do this together! Click here to read Bible Society’s online bible.
