THE GREEN SOCK
NEWS FROM THE SHROPSHIRE AND MARCHES CIRCUIT
GUEST WRITER
EVANGELISE
Being Good
News
Evangelism is back at the top of
the Methodist agenda in Britain.
At Conference this year General
Secretary Martyn Atkins called
for evangelism to be the ‘main thing’ for us to be
engaging with. Not as a last ditch measure to save
the Church but because it is fundamental to our being as Christians. But what is evangelism and why
does it matter?
The word evangelism, comes from the Greek word
euaggelion meaning ‘good news’. As simple as that.
Jesus was good news, and shared good news. To the
troubled he embodied and pronounced peace and
forgiveness, to the dis-eased he embodied and gave
healing, to the despairing and unloved he embodied
and offered hope and love. Our calling as followers
of Jesus is to be and, when appropriate, to speak
good news. (Cont. pg.2)
ISSUE 4 November 2014
CIRCUIT and
NORTH AREA News
Synod Review pg. 2
Organists Honoured
pg. 4
Bomere Heath Water
Appeal Fundraiser pg. 5
Memorial Service pg. 6
Harvest! pgs. 8-10
CENTRAL AREA News
Kinnerton Baptism
pg. 11
Bayston Hill Art
Exhibition pg. 11
Revd. Hands Out £20
Notes pg. 12
BBC Radio at
Netchwood pg. 13
SOUTH AREA News
Ludlow Well-Being
Day pg. 14
Clun Sleepover
pg. 15
Kingsland
Community Garden
pg. 17
Keeping community health in check in Ludlow pg. 14
And that good news can take many forms just as it did in the ministry of Jesus. In
a dangerous world and down our street people need good news. Good news embodied and expressed in a sincere smile, an hour spent listening to someone
battered by bad news and yes, in the right way at the right time, a gentle pointing
to the Jesus who was and is good news.
If you would like to explore more about appropriate evangelism in our contemporary contexts please let me know. [email protected]
Our Guest Writer for this issue is Revd. Andrew Roberts, Discipleship and
Ministries Learning Network Bristol and West Midlands Team.
SYNOD REVIEW
District report of Synod, September 2014
On 13th September 2014 Synod met in Trinity Methodist Church in
Codsall, Wolverhampton. We began with worship led by Revd. Ian Heath
and members of the Wolverhampton Circuit. Mr Gavin Williamson, MP,
Cllr. Brian Edwards, Leader of South Staffordshire District Council and
Revd. Michael Fox of St Nicholas CofE Church, Codsall brought warm
greetings. Our theme for the day was Mental Illness and the Church. Gill
Dascombe, current vice-president of conference gave the keynote address; she said that ‘the mentally ill are still stigmatised in our society like
the lepers of old’. She moved us through history, consideration of brain
functions and current treatments to thinking about what we could do in
the name of Christ to change attitudes to those with ‘eccentric behaviour
patterns’. She reminded us that people suffering from mental Illness need
love, not fear, reaching out to them, not recoil. This led on to a series of
work-shops, e.g. on Dementia, exploding the myths, pastoral care, the
Bible and mental health and nurturing good mental health. The vicepresident said, ‘Good quality spiritual care leads to easier and speedier
recovery.’ Jesus said, ‘ I have come that you might have life, - life in all its
fullness’. So we, His church, are encouraged to challenge our prejudices,
increase our compassion towards those who have a mental illness.
The views expressed in this publication are those of the individual writers and not necessarily representative of the Methodist Church.
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Business from Conference
The replies to memorials sent by Synod and by the Cannock Chase Circuit
to Conference 2014 were available to all members of Synod in writing. A
highlight at conference, in addition to inspiring addresses, challenging debates and wonderful prayer-times, was the 20 year Commemoration of
the Rwanda Genocide. All the representatives from the district took part,
led by Bishop Samuel of Rwanda and Revd. John Howard. We progressed
through conference with candle and banner from Rwanda. The President,
Revd. Kenneth Howcroft exchanged the Rwanda candle for a conference
candle for Bishop Samuel to take back home. He invited the bishop to
address conference and then your representatives led in prayer. We all
felt we had been privileged to take part and many Conference members
were moved by the experience.
Representatives to Conference 2015 are Revds. David Lavender, Denise
Williams, Beatrice Cloke, Brenda Shuttleworth and Keith Walton. These
will join Helen Cook, Denise Beaumont and Revd. Paul Nzacahayo, who
were elected in previous years.
Synod Business
Chris Reed, district treasurer, reflected on finance. He thanked circuits for
paying the required assessments in full. He reminded Synod members that
only 2p in every pound paid to the district by circuit assessments remained
in the district. He reminded Synod about grants available through the District Advance Fund and the District Training Fund. He asked for prayerful
support for treasurers. Synod thanked Chris for his efficiency and hard
work. Ken Collins launched an appeal for the redevelopment of Darlington
Street following the fire last year. The money raised would help to transform the building into a place suitable for mission and evangelism in the
21st Century. Brenda Shuttleworth spoke about the Kairos report from
Palestinian Christian Churches and advocated we read the response by the
British Methodist Church, entitled ‘ Kairos, a Time for Action’. John Howard spoke about the West Midlands Joint Public Issues Team, which has
produced a paper to encourage us to think about the type of society we
want to live in. Each church is encouraged to become involved and to use
the questionnaire on these issues. The results will be used to help
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churches in the run up to the General Election and will be sent to all candidates.
There was a very varied range of stalls available and an excellent
bookshop. Synod concluded with Holy Communion led by Revd. John
Howard. An offering was taken for Mission Alongside the Poor, in response to the success of our memorial encouraging the church to raise
funds for this fund. Many members stayed for fellowship over a very welcome cup of tea and a cake.
The Spring Synod will be held in Dudley College, Broadway Site and hosted
by the Dudley and Netherton Circuit on 18th April, 2015.
Beatrice Cloke, MA, BEd. Secretary to the Synod.
NORTH AREA NEWS
Long-Serving Organists Honoured
(l-r) Christopher Jones, Revd. Maurice Wright
and Mrs Mary Birch
Long-serving church organists Mrs Mary Birch and Mr Christopher Jones were recently honoured at a united service for North Shropshire chapels at Wem Methodist Church. Presenting the organists with certificates provided by the Methodist
Church Music Society, former minister Revd. Maurice Wright praised them both for
the great service they have given to their churches, the circuit and the communities. He also remarked that the year Mary began to play the piano in Sunday School
was the year that he was born. She has played the organ for Seventy-three years at
Welsh End Methodist Church in Whixall, once home to three Methodist Chapels.
Born on the edge the Moss, Mary became organist there at the age of fourteen.
She and her late husband ran the small-holding where she still lives less than a mile
from the chapel. Mary has played in a number of other churches for funerals,
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special occasions and filling in on Sundays when necessary. She is equally at home
on the pipe organ or one of the harmoniums found in many local chapels in former
years.
Christopher Jones was appointed organist at Prees when in his mid-teens. His
mother was a pianist and Christopher followed in her footsteps as accompanist for
the local Ladies’ choir and has served as organist for fifty-one years. He is mostly
self-taught has a wide appreciation and knowledge of music, giving talks illustrated
with recordings and live performance, to church groups. Christopher has been
much in demand for special services, funerals and weddings in other churches.
Revd. Maurice Wright
Bomere Heath Water Appeal
Following the October Harvest Service at
Bomere Heath Chapel, the church held a
Turn on the Tap water appeal fundraiser.
A produce stall was set up in the
grounds and garage of church member
Mary Williams’ bungalow. The stall provided the opportunity for an interesting
“God incident” when a cyclist, Paul
Knight, stopped and asked about the
appeal. It turned out that he was also
raising funds, cycling from Land’s End to
John O’Groats for Water Aid. One church
member donated to his cause. “We
served him with a welcome cup of tea
and a scone. He said he was really
pleased to have met with us and added
us to his photo gallery,” a church member remarked.
Donations given for the produce and
refreshments raised over £260 for Turn
on the Tap.
Marie Price
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Mary Bloore and Mary Williams in Mary
Williams’ Garage
(l-r) Brian Adams, Marie Price, Paul Knight
(cyclist), Mary Bloore, Mary Williams and Shirley
Briers
Memorial Service At Oswestry Chapel
An open Memorial Service took place at Oswestry Chapel at the end of October.
The special service which was led by Revd. Heather Wilson was an opportunity for
the bereaved to join with others in commemorating their loved ones. Visitors were
met with the soothing melodies of Margaret Rizza. Some brought photographs of
their departed which were displayed at the front of the chapel. Several visitors accepted Revd. Heather’s invitation to light candles and to share a few thoughts
about their loved ones, some of whom had died many years ago others as recently
as a few months. Joan Telling and Desmond
Norseworthy came to remember their spouses.
Joan’s husband died ten years ago. Desmond’s
wife Della, who died nine years ago, had been
Joan’s best friend
and
they
had
shared a double
wedding in 1954. Some of the loved ones remembered
They were joined
by Della’s sister MilliMillicent Jones, Joan Telling and
cent Jones. Mrs Sylvie
Desmond Norseworthy
Ellis came with her
daughters Cathy, Lorraine and Marie to honour her
brother and her husband of fifty years, Roy who was
diabetic. Both died in 2012. “I still get upset, it’s hard
Candles lit for Roy Ellis and others
to come to terms with it,” Sylvie said, adding that
coming to the service gives her some comfort.
Family members of Methodist local preacher Doreen Mottram were also among the
bereaved. Doreen, who with husband John served in the North Area of the Circuit,
died in August. Her sister Eileen, also a local preacher said, “She was a reader and
she used to lead a lot of services. When they were at Stanwardine they supported
all the little chapels. She had been ill for eighteen months with a very strange disease that gradually paralysed her.” Alan Johnson whose sister died
last January remarked “I think it’s one of them services you don’t
get carried along by. You sit and think your own memories and
thoughts.” Alan and his wife Betty, Doreen Mottram
were accompanied by
Betty’s sister Jean Croft.
Jean has been widowed
since 2012. “It’s just nice
to all come together and
John Mottram (l) David and Eileen
your loved Watkins with three of Doreen’s grand Betty and Alan Johnson, Jean Croft remember
children, Matt, Hannah and Ian
ones.” Betty said.
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Revd. Dr. Neil Richardson Presents Study Seminar at Wem
Presenting a study seminar at Wem Methodist
chapel, retired minister and past President of
Conference Revd. Dr. Neil Richardson discussed 20th Century discoveries and whether
they shed new light on the life and character
of Jesus. Around twenty people attended to
hear about the apocryphal gospels –those
omitted when the New Testament canon took
place. He looked at the discovery of some of
Revd. Dr. Neil Richardson
them at Nag Hammadi in Egypt in 1945 and at
and how they came to be considered heretical. Of the most famous non-caconical
Gospel, Thomas, Revd. Richardson stated, “It consists almost entirely of sayings of
Jesus, some identical with sayings of Jesus in the New testament… and some quite
different, including some which to us seem cryptic and even bizarre.” He went on to
explain that these gospels provide fantastic accounts of, for example, the resurrection and stories about Jesus’ childhood, and that some of them “express a kind of
Christian ‘elitism’ and wisdom which is a far cry from the Synoptic Gospels.” He also
said that legends and philosophical speculation about Christ the Redeemer and various sayings attributed to Jesus that are not in the New Testament, are most likely
inauthentic.
Revd. Dr. Richardson turned attention briefly to the use of the words orthodoxy and heresy. He questioned whether in our post-modern world the concept of
Orthodoxy, meaning the “right way”
was necessary. Highlighting Progressive Christianity, he stated that pushing the boundaries of orthodoxy, is
increasingly important as the varieties of Christianity grow. With heresy,
the early church theologians tended
to demonise heretics and burnt them
at the stake so heresy is a very emotive and dangerous word. “But does it
still have a purpose and a significance
if the word is carefully used?” he
asked. Questions from participants raised some important issues around the authenticity of scripture, what is ‘lost’ and misinterpreted in translation and whether
various periods in history have seen deliberate misinterpretation. Also discussed
were concepts of Christianity for Christians who have no belief in God and those
Christians who do not believe in the resurrection of Christ. (Cont. pg. 21)
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HARVEST DISPLAYS and CELEBRATIONS
Llanbister Chapel’s plentiful
Harvest display was created by
Mrs Margaret Price and Mrs
Betty Rees. Sunday’s Harvest
Service was led by Mrs Rachel
Powell with the Harvest Sale
Service the following day being
led by Revd. Pauline Long.
Knighton Chapel Harvest included the
Knighton Choir, (pictured right) singing
at the Harvest Meal and concert.
There were also recitations and soloists. The Sunday service saw the
launch of using the projector for
hymns, prayers of intercession and the
All We Can Harvest presentation.
Knighton is one of the few churches in
the Circuit that has an active choir
which sings regularly during Sunday
services. They also unite with members of other churches to form the
Churches Together Choir.
Green Chapel opened their Harvest
celebrations with a worship service
featuring a collection of hymns led and
sung by Ericson Stafford who, accompanied on the organ by his wife, visited
from Forden Congregational Church.
Lay preacher Rachel Powell and church
steward Sheila Leeke served a Hot Dog
supper during the interval.
Harvest decorations were created by
Janet Powell, Rachel Powell, and Sheila
Leeke pictured (left) with Mr and Mrs
Stafford.
8
Mainstone Chapel’s Harvest activities included a Sunday service and a Harvest Sale with
preliminary service the following day.
l-r, Janet Richards, Eileen Davies, Mary Jones
and Ceinwen Richards created the chapel’s
bouquets and the harvest table.
Auctioneer Richard Bright
Angela Pooley led the service
before the sale
Some serous bidders for harvest fayre
At Kinnerton, Local Preacher Rose Powell led the service
with organists Sheila Tremayne and Doris Roberts. Trevor
Morris performed on piano accordion . Val Littlehales,
Doris Roberts and Margaret Rowson (l) created the
beautiful bouquets and arrangements that adorned the
chapel.
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Hyssington Chapel’s Harvest table-sale
included a service led by Revd. Andrew
Champley with worship led by the Vron
Gate Singers (picture right and below) and
a harvest meal.
Lucy Sockett, Margaret Roberts, Elwyn Lewis,
Tom Morris, Les Morris (Sr), Les Morris (Jr)
Kingsland Chapel’s Harvest Service was led by
local preacher Mrs. Margaret Evans and was
followed by a bring and share
Harvest Lunch (Below and right). Mrs Joan Lobb
decorated the chapel.
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CENTRAL AREA NEWS
Kinnerton Chapel Baptism
The first couple to be married at Kinnerton
Chapel held the christening of their first child
there in September. Following in the footsteps of
her mother and four uncles before her,
seven month-old Bethany May Edwards was
baptised at the chapel in September. During the
ceremony, which was conducted by Revd. Andrew Champley, Bethany was presented with a
Christening Bible from Kinnerton members. It
was later inscribed by her great aunt Val Littlehales, who regularly attends the church.
Two years ago, when Andrew and Sarah
Edwards approached Revd. Champley with their
wedding request, it was found that the chapel
was not licensed for solemnization of
marriages. This set the wheels in motion for
Kinnerton Chapel to seek approval and their
Revd. Andrew Champley cradling
marriage took place soon after.
Bethany May Edwards
Bayston Hill Art Exhibition
The annual Bayston Hill Art exhibition attracted
over two hundred visitors to the Church. Now
in its sixth year, the weekend exhibition which
features the work of Bayston Hill’s Art Group,
successfully sold eleven paintings. “On
the Saturday afternoon we enjoyed music provided by Shrewsbury Sixth Form strings which
gave a wonderful lift to the weekend,” organiser David Jones said. Another exhibition is being
planned for next October. The Art Group is part
of the service offered by the Church to the local
community. Encouraging other to explore what
the Art Group has to offer David said, “We meet
every Monday, with morning and afternoon
sessions. You do not have to be a Picasso to join
us and will always be welcome.”
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Reverend Hands Out Twenty Pound Notes In Fund-raising Talent Quest
Belle Vue Church is using a novel way to raise funds for a new Church Hall and kitchen development fund. During a recent Sunday service, each member was given £20
to use in whatever way they want, to generate more money for the fund.
Central Area Minister Revd. Sarah Wood who handed
out the cash, told the Green Sock. “The whole weekend
was about the harvesting of talents. On Saturday night
we had a talent show with people from all different
parts of the community which included a ukulele band,
recitations, opera singers, a guitarist, with many people
doing things, so that was about performance talents.
Then on Sunday we gave away £20 to anybody who
wanted to take the money to grow it.” The idea is based
on one of the many parables Jesus told, specifically that
of a master leaving each of his servants a sum of money
(talents) and on his return rewarding the one who had
increased his money the most. Some enterprising members have set about baking and making jams, chutneys,
marmalades and various items for sale.
Revd. Sarah Wood, ready
to hand out the cash
“Ray Smith, a retired minister is putting
together a recipe book. People are being quite creative in how they use their
money,” Sarah said adding that the refurbishment which will cost £35,000,
will greatly enhance the work the
church does in the community like Open
Mornings, Knit Nat, fellowship groups
and with Rainbows, Brownies and
Guides. Local preacher Mike Hallworth
commented, “Going to church usually
involves putting something in the collection plate, but members of Belle Vue
church came away richer than when
they went in.”
Church member Maree Jacobs receiving
her £20 note from Revd. Wood
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BBC Radio Shropshire Features Lower Netchwood Chapel
When the name Lower Netchwood was pulled out of the
hat for BBC Radio Shropshire’s Place of the Week, the
local Methodist chapel stood out as a main feature for
the broadcast. Presenters Adam Green and Vicki Archer
approached Central Area minister Revd. Hazel Ratcliffe to
take part in the programme which each week explores
the past and present of a Shropshire location. Hazel,
along with church Treasurer Peter Sutton, his wife
Frances and church mainstay Margaret Rose, showed the
pair around the chapel and were asked about the
chapel’s history and their individual connections with the
area.
“They spent about an hour with us and they interviewed each one of us. They asked
me about the small chapels in Shropshire, about the congregations and then they
asked about Netchwood and a bit about the history of Netchwood.” Revd. Hazel
said.
The pair were also curious about the interviewees’ lives and how they happened to
be living in Netchwood. They asked Peter and Margaret to recount some of their
wartime experiences there. Peter who during the war moved from Shropshire to
Sedgley in the West Midlands, talked about “finding it difficult coming from the
countryside to having just a backyard to play in.” Frances told the Green Sock. Margaret, whose parents owned a dairy farm, recounted being blown across the room
due to a bomb blast. Much to the delight of the participants, the programme was
aired three times over the course of a week.
Following the broadcast Hazel said of the experience, “It was really encouraging
because I felt they were genuinely interested in rural Methodism. They asked specifically about Methodism and about our rural chapels and what I felt made them
special.”
13
SOUTH AREA NEWS
LUDLOW CARING FOR YOU WELL-BEING DAY
South Area Community chaplain Ruth Downes’ long-held plans for a Well-Being day
came to fruition in October. With her background in working for the NHS, Ruth had
only the experience of attending a similar event in the past, so putting one together
was a huge undertaking. Yet when challenge to host one at Ludlow Chapel came,
she rose to it. Local preacher Mike Owens, who previously worked in the exhibitions
sector, lent his expertise to the layout of displays while Ruth set about lining up exhibitors and organisations to take part. She managed to persuade a veritable assembly who took over the chapel for a day and provided free advice, information and
health checks which included blood pressure and sugar levels.
For Ruth, the idea was to show the church as an entity that is interested in people
but not merely in the spiritual aspects of
life. “Sometimes when you say holistic care
of the body, mind and spirit it sounds a bit
mystical, but we want people to know that
the church is here to support people in all
sorts of ways.” she said.
Visitors were invited to talk to community
organisations offering a range of services
Portcullis Surgery and Station Drive Surgery
including counselling advice, housing issues,
Compassionate Communities offer advice
debilitating and terminal illnesses, bereavement,
addiction and fire safety. They were also encouraged to look at later life, consider advanced medical conditions, funding long-term
care and the benefits of appointing a power of
attorney. In addition the church provided a
quiet space for prayer and reflection. Revd.
Frances Biseker and church members including
Methodists & Mind volunteers Alan Althorp
Ruth Owens were on hand to pray with visiand Margaret and Michael Price
tors. Meanwhile, the aromas drifting from
both Wesley’s café and the church kitchen, where ecumenical organisation Hands
Together were handing out free meals, drew visitors to think also of their stomachs
and many stopped to enjoy a hearty home-made dish and a welcome drink. During
the event Ruth told the Green Sock, “I’m just really pleased that people have turned
up and at the support that has come from different people and from the church
here at Ludlow in organising this event. It’s just been lovely to see people coming
through the building.”
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Exhibiting for Shrewsbury based solicitors Wace Morgan, Lawyer Nicola Hawes noted that many students attended and showed an interest in putting in place legal
documentation to support them as they age. “People
don’t always know the importance of a power of
attorney in any eventuality” she said. Equally enthusiastic about younger people approaching her stall,
Rosie Bond of Options Counselling who runs a PSHE
education programme offered advice on
pregnancy and sexual health. Mike Owens commented that as well as serving the public an added bonus Nicola Hawes Wace Morgan, Dementia
was the interaction between the different exhibitors Support worker Christine Lloyd Knight
and the links and contacts that have resulted.
Jeanette Swan, Cathy Pritchard, and
David Harlington of Hands Together Ludlow
Organisers Ruth Downes and Mike Owens
CLUN SLEEPOVER WEEKEND
The fifth annual Sleepover at Clun Methodist Chapel saw a record number of local
children attending. In all, fourteen children camped out on the chapel floor on Saturday night after taking part in activities themed on assistance guide gogs. They
created two long banners depicting dogs in assistance situations and logos of the
dog charities funds raised over the weekend will go to. These include Guide Dogs
for the Blind, Hounds for heroes and Shrewsbury based charity Dog Aid. Church member
Ruth Forshaw who helped to coordinate activities, said the children had a cartwheel
competition with X-Factor style judging, did a
dog-themed word search and provided artwork and poetry for the banners. They also
made cardboard kennel type tents in which
they slept. The evening culminated in a talk
presented by official speaker for the Guide
15
Dog charity Meredith Vivian from Church Stretton who was accompanied by his
guide dog Sir Victor and his friend Joanna.
Calum Hadwen 14, who was the lone boy and has attended Clun’s sleepover for the
past three years said “It was really good. Everyone was just working together and
we had fun. One of the tents collapsed half way
through the night.” First timer
Emily, 11 enjoyed the all hands
on deck atmosphere while Charlotte, 12 said the highlight for
her was the tent building. On
Sunday morning the children
Calum with his mother Susan
were treated to a bacon butty
breakfast made by Bishop’s Castle Community College cookery
teacher Linda Martin.
Under a tent
Following this, the children had some time to put finishing
touches to the banners and a jamming session around the piano before the service,
which was led by Revd. Pauline Long. During the service Meredith who has a degenerative eye condition, explained the process of training guide dogs; how those being assisted cope with the separation from a retiring dog and the introduction of
new dogs. He spoke of the symbiotic relationship he and Sir Victor have and
demonstrated how instructions to guides dogs are conveyed partly through the
harness. “I like to describe our relationship as me being the captain of the ship and
he the pilot,” Meredith said adding that having a guide dog gives him independence
and freedom and that he rewards Sir Victor with
praise, cuddles and lots of walks.
With the cost of training each dog at around £50,
000, Meredith thanked the children for their
“extremely important” fundraising and presented
them
with certificates.
Millie, 12 shared her experience of sponsoring a
guide dog, encouraging others to do the same.
As the last of the tents was dismantled, Elisabeth
Newman who, with her husband Michael and assistance of many church members, organises the
sleepover said it had been “exhausting but wonderful.”
(l) Meredith, Sir Victor and Joanna with Sleepover
organisers Elisabeth and Michael Newman
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Kingsland Community Benefits from Chapel Garden
Chapel Lane Community Garden is fastbecoming a hub in the Kingsland community. Located as it is on the Kingsland
Methodist church site, the refurbished
garden has led to the church becoming
more active and a focus for other community groups. Back in 2012, Hereford-
shire County Councillor Jenny Bartlett was
working on one of Greenagers gardening
circles projects which work to promote
wellbeing, active aging and to combat loneliness. When she learnt that Kingsland
Chapel had a unique allotment sized garBefore the garden renovation began
den which was at the time un-used, she
approached Revd. Deanne Evans. Finance
from Greenagers and some assistance from B&Q saw the ground cleared, some
flower beds installed and the commencement of a transformation that today sees
the space being enjoyed by a growing number of people.
Keen gardeners Brian
Volunteers from the community have and Edna Pollard
assisted in supplying equipment like a
shredder, which produced shards for
use in the garden. The Herefordshire Probation Service also assisted, offering the help
of eight youths who trimmed, dug and generally worked hard in exchange for food.
Church members Brian and Edna Pollard have made a particular effort. “Brian has
just done so much work here putting the pavements down and just having that
17
vision to make it a really fully accessible garden and it’s flourishing.” Jenny, now
secretary of the garden committee enthused.
People can use the garden or take on a bed and become fully fledged members.
“We’ve got a couple of beds that the scouts and the brownies use so local children
are involved. In two years we’ve got a beautiful garden. It’s lovely especially on a
summer’s day you can come up and there’s a few people around and you make a
cup of tea and just sit and enjoy the garden. We try and get together on a Sunday
after church which seems like the easiest time,” she added.
Membership subs and fundraisers partly
maintain the garden. Brian has established a
painting group which also donates to the upkeep. “There is a really sustainable plan for
the church and for the garden that otherwise
would have been a prime building plot for an
executive house. It is good for the community
and children are learning that you don’t just
have to go and get the peeled carrots from
the supermarket and that messing around in
the garden is actually a good thing.” Jenny said.
Jenny Bartlett
Gender, forced labour and the plight of the Dalit communities
were among the topics discussed at the MWiB Connexional MGD
Solidarity for Dalits Day in October. Entitled Caste Out? the day of worship, talks and
workshops examined pertinent issues surrounding caste discrimination. Keynote speaker Preacher Dr. Daleep Mukarji opened the
event. Speakers Christine Elliot and Steve Pearce provided an introduction to India and Meena Dhanda
Anne Speight, Meena Varma,
gave an overview of caste in the United
Pres. Linda Crossley
Kingdom. Eve Parker considered the
relationship between gender and caste
while Elizabeth Joy and Linda Crossley spoke
District Pres. Jean Woodland,
on Dalit theology and Education. Meena VarDr. Daleep Mukarji
ma looked at the garment industry and the
treatment of the Sumangali girls in Tamil
Nadu. Exposing the daily lives of the girls and
Meena
the exploitative world they inhabit Meena
Dhanda
Varma said, “This is a new form of bondage
we need to be addressing, a new form of
slavery.” Her appeal for international
solidarity in tackling forced labour and
for our discernment in challenging retail brands before buying from
high street stores was followed by a panel discussion.
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YOUNG PAGES
Faith in politics but less faith in politicians, say Church young people
The Joint Public Issues Team (JPIT) of the Baptist Union of Great Britain, the Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church asked Christian young people about
their attitudes to voting and politics. The young people were clear – they cared
about politics, their faith had a major impact on how they voted – but they didn’t
think their voices were heard or have faith that politicians would deliver positive
change. The online survey was conducted in preparation for the JPIT conference,
‘Love Your Neighbour: Think, Pray, Vote’, where Archbishop Justin Welby will be the
keynote speaker. The aim of the conference is to enthuse and equip Christians to be
active in the run-up to the general election. The Churches believe that the online
survey shows that while many young people care deeply, there is a need to heed
their concerns about the political process.
In the UK voter turnout amongst 18 to 23 year olds is extremely low. Research carried out by YouGov in April this year indicated that of the 3.3 million young people
entitled to vote for the first time in next year’s general election, 7 May 2015, more
than 2 million of them will not be voting.
Andrew Weston, Fellowship of the United Reformed Youth Moderator Elect, said:
“It is a great shame that so many young people lack belief in the political system,
fearing that their voices will be ignored.” The young Christians asked by the Churches said they would be more likely to vote if politicians engage directly with them.
They also said that they are not given sufficient information with regards to policies
and key issues, and that one way of overcoming this could also be through better
political education in schools.
“It is vitally important that young people take the opportunity to have their say next
May,” Andrew continued, adding: “I’m really looking forward to the upcoming JPIT
conference ‘Love Your Neighbour: Think, Pray, Vote’... To have a space for young
Christians to engage with key issues, including poverty, climate change and international affairs, in the context of their faith and the upcoming General Election is so
valuable.” For more information Email: [email protected]
19
“Young people are passionate about politics and care about the
key issues in our country, but it is important that we have all the
facts. When voting we want to know that our voice will be heard
and that our vote can make a difference. If you want to find out
ways in which you can speak to politicians and how your vote
can make a difference, don’t miss the ‘Love Your Neighbour:
Think, Pray, Vote’ conference.” Megan Thomas, Methodist
Youth President.
The ‘Love Your Neighbour: Think, Pray, Vote’ conference takes
place, Saturday 21 February 2015, Coventry Central Hall.
Under 25s can register for tickets by contacting:
[email protected] or http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/
e/love-your-neighbour-think-pray-vote-registration
He said to them, "Go into
all the world and preach
the gospel to
WANT TO SHARE A STORY?
A TESTIMONY?
PUBLICISE AN EVENT?
OR WRITE A REVIEW?
POEMS,
PRAYERS,
all creation.”
Mark 16:15
ANECDOTES...
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
Contact: [email protected]
WEST FELTON METHODIST CHAPEL
Coffee morning on Thursday, 20th November
10 – 11.30 a.m. Coffee and biscuit £1
BACON BAPS £1 EXTRA plus Sales tables
Carols Round the Tree Monday, 22 nd December
6.30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Followed by coffee and mince pies
20
(cont. from pg. 7) Revd. Dr. Richardson spent the latter part of his seminar talking
about possible references to Jesus in the Dead Sea Scrolls, their discovery and the
ascetic, celibate Essene community that lived close to where the Scrolls were found.
The Scrolls, he explained, appear to have been part of the community’s large library
which also includes Old Testament texts, commentaries, hymns, poems, wisdom
writings, horoscopes, liturgies and the rules of the community. “Despite early comparisons of ‘the teacher of righteousness’ referred to in the Scrolls’ Habbabkuk
Commentary there are no references to Jesus or any other people in the New Testament.” Revd. Dr. Richardson said adding that the significance of the Dead Sea
Scrolls has been enormous and has shed light on both Judaism and early Christianity
including many of the New Testament writings.
Following the seminar Revd. Dr. Richardson remarked, “The important thing to add
is we’re on a journey towards the Truth. And I think once we start to imagine we’ve
arrived we’ve started to veer off the journey and the more we can say that to each
other the better really. A crucial thing all Christians have to try to do is combine
their praying with thinking.”
Retired Minister and past President of
Conference Revd. Neil Richardson has
written a new book WHO IN EARTH IS
GOD?
To obtain a copy contact the
Circuit office at:
[email protected]
Trade — Aid — Justice
World Development Movement Director Nick Dearden will be speaking on this
theme on Tuesday 4th November 2014, 7.30pm
Upper Vaughan Room, Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery,
The Square, Shrewsbury FREE!
21
News From the METHODIST CHURCH
OF GREAT BRITAIN
Nomination of the Secretary of Conference
The October Methodist Council has agreed to
nominate to the Conference the Revd Gareth
Powell to serve as the Secretary of the Conference from 1 September 2015. The role is one of
the most senior positions of Church leadership in
Methodism, alongside the roles of President and
Vice-President of the Conference.
Find out more about Gareth
's nomination go to:
www.methodist.org.uk
Study tour to Israel/Palestine:
2-13 July 2015
There are a small number of places available for Methodists to join Cliff College students visiting Nazareth, Bethlehem and Jerusalem from 2-13 July 2015.
The annual study tour, centred around a rereading of Luke’s Gospel, is focused on
understanding context, engaging with the Israel/Palestine reality and enabling participants to reflect better on their own contexts. Methodists will study alongside Cliff students and individuals can choose to take a Cliff College Certificate in Contextual
Theology as part of this study tour.
This Cliff College programme is led by Ian White (Cliff College) and Stephen
Skuce (Director of Scholarship, Research and Innovation of the DMLN). It will cost
£1,175. More details including an application form are available from
www.cliffcollege.ac.uk
For more information visit
Methodist.org.uk
22
CHURCH STRETTON METHODIST
WOMEN IN BRITAIN GROUP
Are in need of large print Hymns and Psalms to be used occasionally
in their weekly meetings.
If you can assist, please contact Church Stretton Chapel secretary
Trish Howard via Mrs L. Roberts on 01743 718736
A message from the Bridge Builders Ministries
Email, Social Media & Conflict in the Church
A Bridge Builders Open Workshop
Wednesday 3 December 2014, 9.30-4.30
Venue, Coventry
This workshop is designed for people who are part of a church’s leadership group (e.g. a staff
team, ministry team, eldership, diaconate, church council), especially those with pastoral
responsibility.
Full details are given in the attached flier, and below the address line. To book, follow this
link: http://www.bbministries.org.uk/component/option,com_eventbooking/Itemid,47/
event_id,75/task,view_event/
A Study Day with Revd Dr Neil Richardson
The Gospel we know and don’t know –Exploring Mark
10am – 3pm on Saturday 8th November
at Wednesfield Community Church, Wood End Rd,
Wolverhampton WV11 1YJ
Please bring a packed lunch.
Hot and cold drinks available.
Limited parking on site. No. 28 bus stops opposite. Booking required: Phone Lesley Cook on
01902 330614 or email [email protected]
Science and Faith
A Series of Talks
Can our faith match science's explosion of powerful thinking, learning and doing? In
particular we shall be asking ourselves: "What is a human being?" We shall look at
answers from science and faith.
Philip Chapman will lead six sessions on Wednesday evenings at 7.30 p.m. We shall
meet initially in the foyer at Green Lane Methodist Church.
The remaining dates are 5th November, 19 November and 3rd December. For more
information contact:
Philip on 01568-610106 or [email protected].
23
Church Stretton Methodist Hall
Watling Street, Church Stretton
Craft and Coffee morning
On Saturday November 8th.
at 10:00-12:00
Come and try some new
and different crafts and join us
in conversation.
Our Church will also be open for
quiet prayer
and reflection.
Methodist Wives and Friends Group
are hosting
An evening of War poems and
Readings for Remembrance Day
On Tuesday November11th at
7:30pm at Church Stretton
Methodist Hall
TABLE TOP SALE
SATURDAY 15TH NOVEMBER 2014
BAYSTON HILL METHODIST CENTRE SY3
0HZ
10AM – 2PM
Genuine second hand and ‘new but not
required’ bargains to be had!
Tea, Coffee, Juice and cakes also on
sale – eat in or takeaway!
Proceeds from the sale will be donated
to Bayston Hill Methodist Centre
AUTUMN FAIR
CLUN MEMORIAL HALL
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 8th
from 2 pm.
Lots of stalls, also teas.
3GENERATE
CHILDREN’S AND YOUTH
ASSEMBLY OF THE
METHODIST CHURCH
14th-16th November
Pioneer Centre,
Cleobury Mortimer,
Shropshire.
SHOEBOX SUNDAY
On November 16th
SERVICES AT
ELLERDINE HEATH 9:30
AND
NORTHWOOD 2:30
For further details, contact
Sarah Aramayo on 01743 272 077
ELLERDINE HEATH
Christingle Service
December 24 at 7pm
Mulled apple juice, mince pies
Childrens’ story with a Christmas twist
24
FOR
OPERATION SHOEBOX
APPEAL
SERVICES WILL BE LED BY
Mr Henry White prior to the
despatching of
shoeboxes for transportation
to Swaziland.
The Residents’ Association of
Plealey
Invite you to
Plealey Methodist Chapel
Christmas coffee Morning
A Slide Show and Talk
On Birds
at Plealey Chapel
Saturday 29th November
on Tuesday 17th November
at 7:30 pm
Cakes, Tombola, Bring & Buy
10:30am -12:00
Looking forward to seeing you!
Adults £4 Children £3
Followed by tea and biscuits.
The proceeds are towards the decoration of Plealey Chapel School Room
FILM NIGHT
AT
GREEN CHAPEL
THURSDAY 20TH NOVEMBER 7:30PM
Showing the story of Helen Shapiro’s life
told in word and song.
Featuring Oh the Deep Deep Love Of
Jesus,
Walking Back To Happiness and more
For more information contact:
Rachel Powell on
01588 650434
Proceeds in aid of chapel funds
CHIRK ADVENT CONCERT
Saturday 29th November - time tbc
Glyn Ceiriog Male Voice Choir in
concert – Tribute to Mrs. Janet
Bowley former member of Chirk
Methodist and supporter of the
choir. At Chirk Methodist Church
LL14 5NF.
Brenda Wilford 01691 778425 or
[email protected]
MWiB
At GREAT WYRLEY on 4th
December
AM Introducing the President’s project
Mr John Richer
BISHOP’S CASTLE AND AREA
CHRISTIAN AID AGM
Tuesday November 25th
7pm
At the Church Barn
Contact Margaret on 01588 638 537
25
Friends of Matthew Rusike House
PM Worship for Advent
For further details contact Thelma on
01743 235941
Lee Bridges Chapel,
Ellesmere
Mr. Hilton Holmes of Pant
will conduct a
Carol service
on Sunday December
21st 2014
He will be assisted by his
daughter Heather who
plays the guitar and I’m
sure that he will have some
other items up his sleeve
that involve all the congregation! For details contact
Graham Lea on 01691
622700
Church Stretton
Carol Service
AN EARLY NOTICE!
Minsterley have been thinking about
Christmas already! But only because we
are planning to have a special weekend of
Nativity events on 5th, 6th & 7th December.
Please put this in your diaries and further
details will follow in the Autumn. In the
meantime, we are looking for the following
items to be lent/donated please:
A few mannequins (all adult sizes) Interesting & unusual nativity scenes. Materials –
hessian, shepherd-like /king-like materials,
blue, brown, white, old curtains and duvet
covers.
If you can help, please phone Sandra on 01743
891861 or
Lesley on 01743 791045
On 21st December
at 4:00pm
Collection for Action for
Children
Christmas Eve
Communion
On 24th December
at 11:30pm
Christmas Day Family
Service
On 25th December
at
10:00am
Email items for December issue to: [email protected] by 20/11
26
Bookings now for Connecting Disciples the Methodist conference for lay
workers and children and youth workers .
The conference will take place on 2-5 March 2015 at High Leigh Conference Centre, Hoddesdon, with registration for the event on Monday 2
March from 2.00-3.30pm with the conference ending on Thursday 5
March after a shared lunch at 1.00 pm.
The theme for this year’s conference is “Confident Discipleship: living faith
in a changing world”. We have a variety of speakers and worship leaders
including the President, Kenneth Howcroft, the Vice-President, Gill
Dascombe, and the Youth President, Megan Thomas.
More information about the conference and details about booking a place
can be found on the Methodist Church website:
www.methodist.org.uk/connectingdisciples.
Bookings should be made by 5pm on 16 January 2015.
Attendees are required to pay a fee with a lower price for early bird bookings completed by 24 November 2014. Payments will be taken automatically as part of the booking process via credit card.
The Connecting Disciples Planning Group.
ACCESS THE GREENSOCK ONLINE—HERE’S HOW:
Go to the Circuit Website www.shropshireandmarches.org.uk. Across the top of
the page there are a number of headings one of which is “Newsletter”. Click on this
and it will take you to latest Green Sock.
The Shropshire and Marches Methodist Circuit has a newly launched Twitter account for Shropshire Methodists @ShropMeth. Twitterers, please follow us and
we will follow you and keep our Circuit communicating, informing, debating, discussing and sharing.
27
COMING EVENTS:
NOVEMBER
5th & 19th SCIENCE & FAITH TALKS
pg. 23 (times & venues tbc)
8th STUDY DAY - Wolverhampton
10:00 am - 3:00 pm pg.23
8th AUTUMN FAIR - Clun 2pm pg. 24
8th CRAFT & COFFEE - Church Stretton
10:00 am—12:00 pg. 24
11th READINGS FOR REMEMBRANCE
Church Stretton 7:30pm pg. 24
14th-16th 3GENERATE - Cleobury
Mortimer pg. 24
15th TABLE TOP SALE - Bayston Hill
10:00 am - 2:00 pg. 24
16th SHOEBOX SUNDAY - Ellerdine
Heath 9:30 am & Northwood
2:30 pm pg. 24
17th BIRDS SLIDE SHOW - Plealey 7:30
pg. 25
18th Chair of District Sponsored Walk
Begins
20th COFFEE MORNING - West Felton
10:00 am - 11:30 am pg. 20
20th FILM NIGHT - Green 7:30 pm
pg. 25
25th BISHOP’S CASTLE AND AREA
CHRISTIAN AID AGM
Church Barn 7:00 pm pg. 25
29th ADVENT CONCERT - Chirk
(Time tbc) pg. 25
29th CHRISTMAS COFFEE MORNING Plealey 10:30 am-12:00 pg. 25
DECEMBER
3rd SCIENCE & FAITH TALK pg. 23
(time & venue tbc)
3rd BRIDGE BUILDING WORKSHOP
Coventry 9:30 pg. 23
4th MWiB INTRODUCING THE
PRESIDENT’S PROJECT - Great
Wyrley 10:00 am pg. 25
5th, 6th, 7th NATIVITY EVENTSMinsterly (tbc) pg. 26
19th & 20th BETHLEHEM JUNCTION
Belle Vue (Check times) pg. 26
21st CAROL SERVICE - Lee Bridges
(Time tbc) pg. 26
21st CAROLS CAFÉ STYLE - Bishop’s
Castle 3:00 pm
21st CAROL SERVICE - Church Stretton
4:00 pm pg. 26
22nd CAROLS ROUND THE TREE - West
Felton 6:30 pm pg. 20
24th CHRISTMAS EVE COMMUNION Church Stretton 11:30pm pg.26
24th CHRISTINGLE SERVICE - Ellerdine
Heath 7:00pm pg. 24
25th CHRISTMAS DAY FAMILY SERVICE Church Stretton 10:00am pg. 26
For full programme of December
services please
consult the Circuit Area Plans and
individual church notices
Contact us: [email protected] or 01588 630 769
28