MCN Dec-Jan 15 - St Mark`s Church, Biggin Hill

The Moving Church News
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570851
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Moving Church News
The bi-monthly magazine of St. Mark’s Church, Biggin Hill
December 2014 - January 2015
Forthcoming Events
Saturday 6th December
St. Mark’s Christmas Fair
Sunday 21st December
Carol Service 6.30pm
Christmas Eve 24th December
Christingles 3pm and 5pm
Midnight Communion 11.30pm
Christmas Day
Family Celebratory Communion 10.30am
Contents
From Jeanette
Elves at St. Mark’s?
Christmas Services at St. Mark’s
Biggin Hill Romania group
Advice and Services in Biggin Hill
St. Mark’s Activities
Darkness to Light Weekend & Messy Church
St. Mark’s Fest
Cluster Grouping of Local Churches
St. Mark’s Christmas Fair
Church Registers
Remembrance Sunday
St. Mark’s Charity Fun Quiz and Supper
Burn’s Night Supper
Dormancy, not us
Indoor Gardening
Biggin Hill Computer Club
Community Telephone Numbers
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St. Mark’s Parish Church,Biggin Hill
Church Road, Biggin Hill,Kent, TN16 3LB
Parish office: 01959 577816
Email: [email protected]
St Mark’s website: www.movingchurch.org
Vicar
Jeanette McLaren:
01959 540482
Church Wardens
Michael Brooks
Judy Sharp
David Shannon
01959 575496
01959 573623
01959 700668
Rose Page
Steve Stewart
01959 572221
01959 565400
Reader
Pastoral Assistants
For Hall Bookings, Baptism, Wedding and general enquiries,
please contact the Parish Office.
Office hours: 10 am to 11.30 am Tuesday
10 am to 12 noon Wednesday & Thursday
Sundays at St. Mark’s
8.00am Holy Communion (1662)
10.30am Parish Communion (Except 1st Sunday)
10.30am 1st Sunday - 'EXPLORE' takes place in the
church and is a very informal cafe-style worship, which is ideal
for families, new Christians and those exploring Christianity.
6pm for 6.30pm ‘REFRESH’ - 3rd Sunday of each month
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“My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is
very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we
have to wait for Christmas to do that?”
Bob Hope.
“Christmas is a necessity. There has to be at least one day of
the year to remind us that we're here for something else
besides ourselves.”
Eric Sevareid.
…………………………………………………………..
Some people think that Christmas time
Is gifts and grub and booze;
But the best bit is
That Jesus cameGod’s Son in human Shoes.
I am writing this article in my Study on the 5th November, with
Nelson my dog cowering under my desk as people in Biggin Hill
celebrate Firework Night.
For many people now, adults and children, their focus will then
move to Christmas, the next big occasion looming on our
calendars. On Facebook it would appear that Christmas has been
on people’s mind for a while. In October I saw a cartoon posted of
Robin saying to Batman, ‘Only so many days to go before
Christmas’ and Batman slaps him, and says, ‘It’s only October’.
It did make me smile and although I love the build up to Christmas,
it appears that one in seven people hate the Christmas season,
and the reality is that the frenzied run up to December 25th often
strips this time of year of its spiritual significance.
Which is why I think the season of Advent is so important. Advent,
is the great season of spiritual anticipation and excitement, as we
await the birth of Christ. In Church we hear readings about John
the Baptist calling people back towards God.
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Advent for Christians is when we reflect on our relationship with
God, and prepare our hearts and minds to welcome Jesus anew,
and celebrate God’s love breaking into the world, through his birth.
This is what we celebrate, and I hope that after the frenzy of
shopping, the cooking, and the joy of welcoming Christmas guests,
we don’t forget the wonderful message of Christmas, that Christ
came to reveal God’s love in the world, but also called people to
love God and one another. And that the special love, joy and peace
that we feel at Christmas doesn’t have to stop when we put the
Christmas decorations away, but if we allow Jesus to stay with us,
and enable us to bring his love to the world in the days that follow
Christmas, and the rest of the year.
I have often said in sermons, that I sometimes think a good name
for Christians, would be ‘Transformers.’ No doubt that word has
brought to mind those toys that are very popular with young boys,
the toys that are cars, lorries and airplanes, and then with a twist of
the hand can become a fighting machine. I am not however
thinking of the toys, but the fact that Christians, by witnessing to the
love of God, can transform the society we live in.
This has always been so, because perhaps, as the quote at the
top of this page reminds us that with Jesus coming into the
world, the annual celebration of his birth ‘ reminds us that we
are here for something besides ourselves.’
As we approach Christmas and the New Year may we allow God,
through His Son our Saviour Jesus Christ to enable us to look
outside ourselves to a world in need. A world, that needs his love,
gentleness, and mercy, in allowing God to use us to ‘transform’ our
relationships, our community, and His world.
I finish by quoting Charles Dickens who wrote, ‘ I will honour
Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all year.’
Revd Jeanette McLaren
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Are there Elves at St. Mark’s???????????
Do you remember the fairy story of the Elves and the Shoemaker?
Every night the elves would appear and make beautiful shoes to
help the shoemaker.
Here at St Mark’s I think there are elves working away doing jobs
to help maintain our beautiful building. Every Tuesday morning a
group of ‘handsome’!!!!!! elves can be found working hard cutting
back and sorting out the large overgrown hedge along the Church
Road boundary to the church.
There is also a lady elf who works away keeping our garden of
remembrance beautiful for those who wish to come a spend time
remembering their loved ones. There is another band of elves who
keep our church clean and polished and decorated with beautiful
flowers and others who make our altar linen spotless and
beautifully pressed. The list goes on and on and I expect there are
others I have not mentioned.
You too could help maintain our church building. The Tuesday
morning gang would welcome any new members and pointy ears
are not required!
Michael Brooks is the elf in charge of the cleaning rotas so if you
feel that you can help with these chores please speak to him. It
can be most rewarding to feel that you are enhancing the place in
which we worship our God and speaking from experience I have
found times of deep spiritual peace when working quietly in the
church building completing a task.
The purpose in writing this though, is not
particularly to recruit more help but mainly to
say ‘Thank You’, to all of you who show your
love and care for St. Mark’s by giving freely
of your time and energy.
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Celebrate Christmas
with us at
St. Mark’s
Carol Service
Sunday 21st December 6.30pm
Christingles
Christmas Eve Wednesday 24th
December 3pm and 5pm
Midnight Communion
Wednesday 24th December 11.30pm
Family Celebratory Communion
Christmas Day 10.30am
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Biggin Hill Romania Group
THANK YOU!!! We would like to thank all of you who brought
in Christmas shoeboxes and Family Boxes to be sent out to
Comanesti in Romania either at St Mark’s Harvest Service or
at any other time! There were over 50 shoeboxes and 15
family boxes which added to the total of over 900 collected from around
the Biggin Hill area. Special thanks go to the schools and churches
within the London Boroughs off Bromley and Croydon who put together
so many boxes. There will be 3 teams going out over 3 weeks at the end
of November/ beginning of December to distribute them and we will try
to get photos of this into the next issue of the Moving Church News. For
more information on the work of the Biggin Hill Romania group – please
contact Sandra on 07802 575417, Caroline on 01959 576093 or Chris
on 01959 700815.
P.S. Look out in this issue for the information of our next fund-raising
event – a Quiz and Supper Night on 10th January 2015!! Look forward to
seeing you there!
Advice and Services in Biggin Hill
Biggin Hill Community Care Association facilitates the following
community sessions. No appointment is needed. They are held in
St. Mark’s Centre, St. Mark’s Church, Church Road.
Parkinson’s UK
1st Wednesday 10am-12 noon
See what the Branch can do for you. For more information,
contact Steve Kingston on [email protected]
General Advice - 2nd & 4th Wednesday 10am-12 noon
General advice is offered from our advisor, who will be able to
direct you to the information or services that you may need.
Hearing Aid Maintenance Clinic:
The clinic is on the 4th Thursday of the month except for December when
it will be on the 11th, at St. Mark’s Centre from 1pm to 2.30pm. Have your
NHS hearing aid cleaned and collect new batteries - all free of charge.
The clinic is run by the Charity ‘Hi Kent’. For more details please call
01622 691151 or go to www.hikent.org.uk. No appointment is needed.
Nail Clipping
A nail clipping service for Bromley residents (50+) operates from the
centre organised by Age UK Bromley. Please call 0208 315 1850 for
more details.
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‘BELLYDANCING’
CLASSES
for BEGINNERS
ST MARK’S CHURCH HALL
EVERY TUESDAY EVENING
at 7-8pm
£7 per class
WITH DAUN
A family run business
established 17 years.
We operate a fleet of
16 seat luxury minibuses
All with lap/diagonal seatbelts
Full PSV/Insurance
All occasions catered for
Weddings
Airport transfers
Days/E venings out
Sports events
Tel: 01959 700476
Tel/Fax: 01959 700476
Fax: 01959 541134
Mob: 07801 199761
E/Mail:
[email protected]
www.smartbus-uk.com
ELDERLY LIVING ALONE
Think of sheltered accommodation
in a family sized house with a
housekeeper providing main meals.
Individual rooms furnished by you.
Moderate charges.
Think of the ABBEYFIELD SOCIETY
where older people find care in
housing.
Phone Anne Dungan
01689 820987
Please phone 07904 716655
for more info
or email [email protected]
Mobile foot health clinic
07824 363601
[email protected]
www.bromleyfootcare.co.uk
Nicola Ruddick
MCFHP MAFHP
afeguard
THE PEST CONTROL PEOPLE
YOUR LOCAL FRIENDLY COMPANY
PEST CONTROL
WASPS/FLEAS/ANTS
Contact us on
(01959) 565777
[email protected]
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At St. Mark’s…..
The Choir
Practises take place on Fridays at 7.30pm - all ages welcome! For
more details please call the Parish Office
Parent & Toddlers
Every Monday and Friday from 10.00 am in the Church Hall
during school terms. Contact the Parish Office for details 01959 577816 - or just come along.
Bell Ringing
Please contact the Parish Office on 01959 577816
1st Biggin Hill Guides
Please contact Rosemary Spurway on 01959 575717
Home Groups
Home groups meet every fortnight for fellowship and Bible Study.
For more information contact David Shannon on 01959 700668
Junior Church
For primary age children. Held in the church hall on
Sundays from 10.30am
Music Group
St. Mark’s Music Group. Songs and fellowship with a lively touch.
01959 575129 for details
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The “Darkness to Light” Weekend
at St Mark’s
(Oct 31st to Nov 2nd)
“Take a card, any card” asked the magician after the Saturday
night dinner, and after several more tricks, everyone was
gasping, “How did he do that?” Ian Hutchinson’s final trick
was to undo a tangled knot in a rope, just by pulling both ends.
This, he said, demonstrated God’s ability to solve problems
and deal with the effect of sin in our lives. This encapsulated
the message of the whole weekend over which several events
testified to our deliverance, by Christ, from whatever darkness
we are in, into the light of His Kingdom. This transforming
message came across in Messy Church (the candle that
wouldn’t go out – John 1.5), less clearly to revellers in Open
Church on Hallowe’en night (but the hot dogs were delicious),
artistically through an exhibition of 16 posters, and movingly on
Sunday morning when everyone received a lit candle to
remind us that Jesus said “I am the Light of the World.
Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have
the light of life” (John 8.12).
Gordon Harris
The first event in the Darkness to
Light Weekend was Messy Church
on Friday Morning. We usually
meet after school but since it was
half term week we made a change
to the morning. We had over 50 children with
their ‘grown ups’ for a busy morning of worship, and a whole
range of activities and of course lots of tea, coffee and chats. If
you were puzzled to find stray bits of glitter on your Sunday
clothes, I’m sorry ---it was us. Our activities were all related to the
theme of Jesus, the light for the world; and we used glitter in a
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BIG way. The children made glittery stars, shiny spiral
decorations, candle cards, stained glass windows, silhouette
puppets, lanterns and, sparkly party hats. After our worship, in
which, of course we did sing This Little Light off Mine, everyone
went into the hall for and hot dinner of fish fingers, potatoes and
spaghetti hoops followed by CAKES. Thank you to all those folk
who donated the spaghetti hoops and cakes. This helps us to
keep our costs to a minimum and is usually covered by the
donations from the families.
The helpers, as usual did a fantastic job; both setting up and
running the activities and in the marathon clean up at the end. It
was great to have some new helpers this time, I did a count up
and I think there were over 25 members of St. Mark’s involved in
helping in some way. They deserve a big thank you for their role
in this valuable part of our outreach into the community.
Thank you to the local businesses who
donated prizes to our raffle.
Shopping Voucher: Waitrose
Water Colour Painting by Jim Ruddell (The Artist)
Shopping Vouchers: Coolings Garden Centre
Wash, Cut & Blow Dry: Rachels
Wash & Blow Dry: Elysium
Cut, wash & Blow Dry: Hair 2K
Flower Voucher: Lilly of The Valley
2 Fish and Chips meals: Salisbury Fish Shop
Meal for 2: Charcoal Grill Voucher
Fish and Chips meal: Tom Bells
Discount Voucher: Occasions
Wrapped Plant: Coolings Garden Centre
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Cluster Grouping of Local Churches
Because Deaneries are often very large, comprising of churches
over a large geographical area, with churches facing often very
different issues because of their diverse social and economic
situations, churches have been encouraged to work together in
'Geographical Clusters.' Those of us who minister on the outskirts
of Biggin Hill face different challnges than those churches and
clergy that minister in more urban areas.
It seemed obvious and appropriate for Biggin Hill, Hayes and
Keston, become a Cluster. Carol, of Keston Church and Napo of
Hayes Church, and I have been meeting informally establishing our
own relationships for about eighteen months. Our first meeting was
with Bishop Brian over lunch in Keston.
After a number of meetings we have now had our launch cluster
worship service which was well attended at Keston Church on the
12th October and we look forward to running a joint Confirmation
class in the spring.
Jeanette, Carol, Napo and Archdeacon Brian at the Cluster
Worship Service
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ST MARK’S
CHRISTMAS
FAIR
Saturday 6th December
11am - 2pm
In St Mark’s Church and Hall
Christmas Stalls
Tombolas
Raffles
Music from the
Biggin Hill Concert Band
Refreshments
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Church Registers
BAPTISMS
“We welcome you in the name of the Lord”
Brandon Benjamin Lewis Guildford
Ellie Marie Graham
Daisy Elizabeth Steel
Arthur William David Henn
MARRIAGES
“Those joined together in Holy Matrimony”
Andy Jack Bryant & Lauren Alana Bird
FUNERALS
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His
compassion never fails; every morning they are renewed”
Joy Evelyn Franklin
Arthur Raymond Martin
John Wise
Frederick William Worthington
Parents and Toddlers
We are looking for any volunteers who can spare some time on a
Monday morning from 9.30 - 11.15, to help with the serving of
refreshments to our families.
It is a chance to enjoy the company of our parents and their small
people, and to always come away feeling appreciated!
If you can help out, starting after Christmas, term time only, please
conact Pat West on 01959 573344 or send an email to
[email protected].
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Remembrance Sunday
The parade marched from
St. Mark’s Church to the
War memorial
Michael Brooks laid a
wreath on behalf of St.
Mark’s Church
Roy Arnold laid a
wreath on behalf of
Biggin Hill Community
Care Association
Thirty six wreathes
were laid at the War
Memorial on behalf of
the many
organisations and
schools of Biggin Hill
Setting the Standard for Excellence in Home Care
Services provided:
We provide companionship, housekeeping and domestic
services, personal care, palliative care, and respite care.
We provide care for:
• Older people • Adults recovering from illness • Adults with learning difficulties
• Adults with mental health problems• Adults with terminal illness
Tel: 01689 853040 Fax: 01689 768358
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.abacushomecarebromley.co.uk
Registered & regulated by the Care Quality Commission
R&R
Cleaning Services
Domestic Cleaners
All staff are checked and
insured for peace of mind.
Office: 01959 571880
Mobile: 0794 717 6914
[email protected]
Mobile
Chiropodist
Chiropody undertaken
24hr
24hr
Emergency
Emergency
Plumbing
Plumbing
&
&
Heating
Heating
Service
Service
Registered
Showers
Registeredinstaller
installerf orofAQUILISA
Aquilisa Showers
ty pes of WATER TREATMEN T
AllAlltypes
of WATER TREATMENT
And DRAIN work
DRAIN WORK
All ty pesand
of PLUMBING
& HEATING
All types
of PLUMBING
& HEATING
SERVICING
of GAS BOILERS
sav ing onofheating
costs
SERVICING
GAS BOILERS
Working
Thames
Water
Savingwith
heating
costs
DAVID
RUDD
DAVID
& SON
RUDD
MIP MIP
RP.RP
Mandy Gifford M.Inst.Ch.P
HPC Registered
Registered Member of the Institute
of Chiropody and Podiatry
Tel: 01959 540715
Registered
RegisteredPlumber
Plumber
Tel: 01959 577072
Mobile: 07831 641664
GAS
SAFE
REGISTERED
CORGI
REGISTERED
Established 32 years
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Flowers for Church
If you would like to make a donation towards the cost of flowers
in church for a particular week, to mark an anniversary or a
special event, please contact either Caroline Budimir on 01959
576093 or the Parish Office on 01959 577816
The people of St. Mark’s Church would like you to know
that we pray for Biggin Hill regularly.
If you would like us to pray for you, someone you know or for
something that concerns you, please let us know and we
will be happy to do so.
Please telephone the Church office on 577816. The office is
normally open from 10 am to 12 midday Monday to Thursday. A
message can be left on the answer machine outside of these
times.
If you prefer, you could send your prayer request to St. Mark’s
Vicarage, 10, Church Road, Biggin Hill,
Kent TNI6 3LB
Qualified Counsellor - Chris Baker
http://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellors/christopher-peter-baker
Registered Individual Member of BACP, British Association for Counselling and
Psychotherapy. MSc. Therapeutic Counselling
Mobile 07543 610630
[email protected]
We explore a preferred future goal and access motivation as a key dynamic for
personal change; we seek solutions together rather than dwelling extensively on
the problem. This is known as Solution Focussed Counselling. Instead of
analysing why our life is how it is, we redirect our effort together to create the life
you want it to be. Instead of problem solving, we focus on solutions! You have all
the resources, skills and ability within you to reach your full potential.
Individuals £20 per hour session/couples £30
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Saturday 10th January 2015
St Mark’s Church Hall, Church Road,
Biggin Hill
Charity
Fun Quiz
and Supper Night
Featuring Guest Quizmasters
The Quiz Knights
Admission by Ticket only - £10 each - to include
quiz entry, supper and spot prizes.
Maximum team size 8
Remember- bring your own drinks and glasses plus your
ticket for the lucky number draw!
Doors open at 7.00pm, food served at 7.30pm. Quiz starts at 8.00pm.
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Fairtrade has been supported by the Diocese and
St. Mark’s for many years. It was agreed that St.
Mark’s would only use brands of coffee, tea, sugar
and similar goodsthat have the Fairtrade symbol.
If you are buying these items to use at St. Mark’s,
for any activities or events, please support this
policy wherever possible. Sometimes these items
are more expensive than the common brands, but
this is to enable the farmers and workers to a get a fairer deal than
they might from non fairtrade companies.
Fairtrade is about better prices, decent working conditions and fair
terms of trade for farmers and workers. Fairtrade supports small
scale farmers and workers who are marginalised from trade in a
variety of ways. There are over 1.4 million farmers and workers in
1,140 producer organisations across the Fairtrade system.
Confirmation Course
Come together as a Cluster with Hayes, Keston and Biggin Hill to
explore the Bible, Prayer and Church and seek to know God
more.
The course will run over six Monday evening sessions on the
following dates: 24th April - 11th May - 18th May - 1st June - 8th June
- 15th June, taking breaks for the bank holidays.
There will be a confirmation service conducted by Bishop James
on Wednesday 17th June at 7.30pm.
The Biggin Hill and Westerham Lions Club would like
to thank all those who supported their quiz night last
month. A total of £420 was raised and will be donated
to Leonard Cheshire Disability to help fund major
construction and refurbishment work at their home at
Chipstead Lake.
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Piped in
Haggis
and 3
Course
Supper
SATURDAY
24 JANUARY 2015
th
St Mark’s Church
Church Road - Biggin
Hill
7.00pm for
7.30pm - 10.45pm
Dancing to
‘Crooked
Stovepipe’
Bring Your
Own Drinks
and
Glasses!
Raffle!
Tickets £15
from Lynne
Martin
01959
576144
576144
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For all your floral
requirements
Garwood Tree Management
Sam Garwood - Tree Surgeon
FLORIST
[email protected]
A personal service at a
competitive price!
Lily of the
Valley
Reductions, pruning, felling
and hedge trimming
Can provide references
NPTC qualified. Fully insured
309, Main Road (opposite St.
Winifred’s Road)
Biggin Hill TN16 3JJ
01959 571445
Call: 01959 575091 or 07760 108775
www.lily-of-the-valley.co.uk
PILATES
At the W.I Hall, Biggin Hill
Tuesday 2pm
For those of you who want to have a
pilates workout, in a relaxed environment.
Laughter encouraged and we try to have a
bit of a workout too!. Ideal exercise to
increase flexibility and ability, often
recommended by osteopaths and
physiotherapists.
QUALIFIED SURGICAL
CHIROPODIST
CLARE DICKER
MSSCh DipPodMed MBChA
Registered Member of the British Chiropody &
Podiatry Ass. HPC Reg No CH21135
For further details phone:
Ruth 01959 532875/07968 002590
Or email: [email protected]
Kings Road
Veterinary Surgery
Professional Personal Caring
Open till 7pm weekdays
24h Emergency Service
01959 576 337
Mr. Rikus Harmse MRCVS
123 Kings Road, Biggin Hill, TN16 3NH
(near Rosehill shops)
CLINIC &
HOME VISITS
*
*
*
*
*
Evening appointments available
All aspects of foot care
Prescription Insoles (Orthotics)
Nail removal (local anaesthetic)
Nail reconstruction
01959 576161
07762 074542
7 Juniper Close, Biggin Hill,
Kent, TN16 3LZ
www.claredicker.co.uk
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Dormancy, not us!
With bulbs to plant, borders to tidy, managing woodland areas and the
occasional litter pick, you can see the Friends group do not rest on their
laurels, especially during the winter, unless winter arrives with a bang
and everything is covered in snow.
Further Crocus will be added to the existing planting in between the trees
by the car park, creating a spectacular spring show in colours of yellow,
shades of blue and white. To continue with the spring colour, further
daffodil bulbs will be planted at the far end of the Rec, near the allotment,
giving a splash of colour, where none have been before.
Tidying the sensory garden so early in the winter can be detrimental to
our small insect friends, birds and mammals that use the dead foliage to
hibernate and escape the worst of the winter weather. Therefore we tend
to start tidying later in the winter when plants start to wake from their
winter slumber and insects become early food for birds.
At the latter part of the winter, the pruning and the general tidying is
done. Essential to produce colour for the following winter, produce larger
leaves where needed, remove dead, diseased and dying wood and a
general health check for the summer ahead.
Managing woodlands is essential to control invasive foreign plants, thin
overcrowding saplings, planting indigenous plants and clearance of floor
vegetation to allow early woodland plants, such as bluebells to get an
early start in the spring. This is done in stages to allow any disturbed
insects to move on to other habitats not cleared.
The deep fissures of some trees enable small invertebrates to hide from
the extremes of winter; others hide in cracks and hollows, providing food
for the Tree Creeper, Green Speckled Woodpecker and other winter
birds foraging for food.
We take trees for granted, they are there when you are born as if by
some pure miracle someone put them there. They provide shelter and
shade from the elements, habitats for flora and fauna and re-cycle our
carbon waste into oxygen.
Then of course there is always litter, a constant problem that is never
going to go away. If everyone used the litter bin or took it home we
wouldn’t have such a big problem.
Perhaps you could give some fresh ideas and inspiration and help to
maintain these wonderful areas in Biggin Hill
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The Friends of Biggin Hill Parks are a vital and passionate group of
people that care for their environment and their community, but we
desperately need your help to maintain our environment around us in
Biggin Hill.
We meet every second Saturday of the month for a couple of hours to
work at any of the three sites mentioned above, but we need your help,
even for an hour. Tasks we carry out are weeding, edging, litter picking,
cutting down small tree saplings, pruning, sweeping, bulb planting and so
on. Tools, rubbish bags etc are supplied along with the tea and cakes for
all that give help. If time is difficult but you wish to help in some way,
perhaps by litter picking, contact us and we can supply a litter picker and
bags.
Do join us and keep Biggin Hill a place to be proud of: Telephone Nick
Hagon, 01959 575799 for further information between 6.30pm and 9 pm.
Indoor gardening
As winter approaches, jobs in the garden become less attractive,
temperatures drop and enthusiasm wanes. Yet, nature marches on,
leaves fall, fruits devoured, the solitary bee braves the cooler
temperature while the summer birds migrate to warmer climate. The
angle of the winter sun lowers, totally transforming the landscape on the
naked branches and attentions turn to indoor gardening.
One of the easiest plants to grow is the popular Christmas cactus. With
their branching and arching stems composed of leaf like flattened
segments, produce an abundance of white, pink, red or purple flowers
during November through to late January. Continue to pick off the dead
flowers and once flowering has finished, place in a cool room, water
infrequently until late spring to early summer, when they will need a rest.
Place the plant outdoors in a shady spot, protect from slugs and keep on
the dry side until the following autumn when buds appear, then increase
water and temperature. Do not pot on into too large a pot, one of their
pet hates is swimming in large amounts of compost.
The winter cherry, Solanum capsicastrum, produce orange or red berries
among the dark green leaves provides a festive touch. Place on a sunny
windowsill in a cool room, the berries will last for weeks. Once the
berries have finished, prune back stems to half their length in late winter,
keep the compost almost dry until spring, then re-pot and place outdoors
during the summer months. Bring back in during autumn and spray the
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plants with tepid water when in flower, will help to fertilise and aid the
development of green berries, before they turn orange.
Cyclamen is one of the most popular of all winter flowering pot plants.
Don’t get confused with the outdoor species, flowering from October
through the winter in the border or the smaller plant available from many
garden centres this time of year, used with spring flowering plants in
containers. With compact growth, Cyclamen periscum has beautiful
swept back in pastel or bright coloured flowers on long stalks and
decorative patterned foliage.
Purchase your plants with plenty of unopened buds, place on a north
facing windowsill in a cool situation and away from direct sun and central
heating. Continue dead heading, picking the flower with the stem
attached to avoid rotting (Botrytis) and keep watering from the base, until
flowering has finished. Then reduce watering, stop feeding and place the
pot on its side in a cool spot in a frost free location until mid-summer.
Then re-pot using fresh compost, burying the tuber to half its depth and
water.
The symbol of Christmas outdoors is the holly,
indoors is the Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima).
The large scarlet flower heads (coloured bracts) on
a compact bushier plant with dark green foliage
stands proud on the much loved Christmas table.
Requiring a warm well lit room, away from
draughts, they will last for many weeks.
If kept to grow on the following year, the plant will grow to its original size.
Many indoor plants require cool temperatures, no draughts, light but not
direct sunlight and moist humidity, important for plant health and to keep
pests at bay. This is achieved by misting with tepid water, preferably rain
water and stand the plant on small pebbles in a saucer of water.
Problems can be associated with yellowing leaves which can be a result
of dry atmosphere or over watering. Pests can be white fly, glasshouse
spider mite, mealy bug, vine weevil or scale but can be reduced by
raising the humidity, placing outdoors for a short while during mild
weather, biological control or chemicals, ask for advice if necessary from
a competent staff member at the garden centre. Diseases can also be
controlled by removing any rotting material to prevent it spreading to
healthy parts of the plant.
The Biggin Hill Horticultural Society will have had its AGM by the time you
receive this. Your 2015 schedule will be delivered in February to allow
you to plan for the year, whether it is for your compost requirements,
27
plants, flower shows, talks or our coach trips. If you know of someone
who wishes to join, please contact a member of the committee and we
will arrange for a visit.
The Biggin Hill and District Horticultural Society committee wishes
everyone a very Happy Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year to all
Church newsletter readers.
New computer club opens in Biggin Hill
How would you like to meet new friends with an interest in Computers, Tablets (including iPads), Smart Phones, Digital Cameras and
other modern technology?
Biggin Hill Computer Club has over thirty years experience under a
different name! It's a friendly, local Computer Club that always
welcomes new members - men and women aged between 12 and
112, beginners and experts alike - in fact, anyone who would like to
share their experience, to learn new tricks, to help other members,
or seeking help to fix their own troublesome computer, laptop or
tablet.
It's all possible at Biggin Hill Computer Club!
We meet fortnightly at the Aperfield WI Hall, Lebanon Gardens,
Biggin Hill TNI6 3HA, Meetings run from 8 pm to 10 pm on the
second and fourth Thursday evenings of each month.
New members of all ages are particularly welcome
For more information, please see our website www.bticc.ciub,
send an email to: bhcc,[email protected], or just come along!
28
SHIRLEY COX DANCE
The “Studio” 24 Aperfield Road, Biggin Hill.
BALLROOM & LATIN DANCE CLASSES
MONDAY
ADULTS
UNDER 16 years
Beginners 7-30 to 8-30pm
Improvers 8-30 to 9-30pm
6-00 to 6-45pm 6 to 9 years
6-45 to 7-30pm 10 to 16 years
For details of all our other classes
Ballet, Stage & Tap, Contemporary etc.
Please telephone
01959-572859/700654
www.shirleycoxdance.co.uk
29
THE MOVING CHURCH NEWS
IS THE PARISH MAGAZINE OF
St. MARK’S CHURCH, BIGGIN HILL
St. Mark’s is known as the “Moving Church” as in the 1950’s it was
constructed from materials brought from the redundant church of All
Saints North Peckham. This remarkable feat of dismantling and building
carried out by local Biggin Hill people was accomplished through the
initiative and vision of the then vicar, The Revd. Vivian Symons. He
mobilised the local parishioners to create a truly worthy parish church in
place of their ageing corrugated iron building. This fascinating story is
recounted in an illustrated colour guide available from the Church.
St. Mark’s is a pilgrim church; we do not simply accept the status quo, we
are on a spiritual journey as pilgrims of old, actively seeking to draw
closer to God and discover His will both in our own lives and the life of our
local church and community which we love and serve. We are anxious
“not to store up treasures here on earth” but to use all our church
resources given by God, in His service and for His glory.
We want to share the good news of God’s love in Jesus Christ with all
those in our parish and neighbourhood. Hopefully this is portrayed by the
way we live our lives, and speak to others.
We respect that we are all children of God, and we want to discover Christ
in each other, encouraging personal growth in our individual relationship
with each other and with Jesus.
Worship is an integral part of our love for God, and we want our services
to reflect dignity and sensitivity as well as joy and thanksgiving.
Our Main Services are shown on page 4
St. Mark’s Church, Biggin Hill - People's Prayer
Dear God in Heaven who loves us so much,
Thank You for everything You do and provide for us.
We pray for Your church and community here in
Biggin Hill, that we may know Your plans for us
in this special town.
Especially, we pray for help in bringing all Your
children to You, so they may come to know You fully,
through our actions enabled by Your Spirit,
And through the life, teaching and example of
Your Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen
COMMUNITY TELEPHONE NUMBERS
30
Age Concern – Information & Advice Helpline
0208 315 1850
Benefit Enquiry Line
0800 88 22 00
Biggin Hill Aperfield W.I.
01959 572591
Biggin Hill Blind Club
01959 572817
Biggin Hill Community Care Association
01959 577400
New Life Church
01959 571667
Biggin Hill Evening W.I.
01959 572967
Biggin Hill Horticultural Society
01959 575799
Biggin Hill Musical Theatre Company
01959 701829
Biggin Hill Residents Association
01959 572299
Biggin Hill Rangers, Guides and Brownies
01689 848562
Biggin Hill Romanian Group
01959 700489
Biggin Hill Society
01959 572569
Biggin Hill Scout Group
01959 574625
Biggin Hill & Westerham Lions Club
01959 576628
Bromley Council – Office Hours 020 8464 3333
Nights 0208 464 4848
Bromley Assoc. for People with Disabilities (BATH)
0208 663 3345
Carers Bromley Helpline
0800 015 77 00
Childline (confidential helpline for children)
0800 1111 (24 hr)
Citizen’s Advice Bureau (Bromley)
0208 315 1940
Community Links, Bromley
0208 315 1900
Crimestoppers
0800 555 111
Dial-a-Ride (For registration and enquiries)
0343 222 7777
Doctor’s Surgeries –
Stock Hill Surgery
01959 580011
Norheads Lane Surgery
01959 574488
FOAL Farm (Friends of Animals League)
01959 572386
GAS Emergency 24 hr freephone
0800 111 999
National Childbirth Trust (Biggin Hill)
01959 572209 or 01959 701765
NHS Choices - For non urgent medical advice
111
Police: Non Emergency Reporting
101
Local Safer neighbourhood team:
020 8721 2820
Princess Royal University Hospital
01689 863000
Rogue Traders Rapid Response
07903 852 090
St. Mark’s Parish Office
01959 577816
St. George’s Memorial Chapel
01959 570353
St. Theresa’s RC Church
01959 571404
Schools - Biggin Hill Primary
01959 575846
Charles Darwin Secondary
01959 574043
Cudham Primary
01959 572673
Oaklands Primary
01959 573963
Tatsfield Primary
01959 577356
Samaritans (Local branch) - 01689 833 000
24 hr - 08457 90 90 90
Textphone for hard of hearing
08457 90 91 92
Social Services - 24hr emergency number
020 8464 4848
Spitfire Youth Centre
01959 574835
St. John Ambulance
01959 701281
Thames Water
0845 920 0800
Valley Hall Community Association
01959 573917/570020
Victim Support Scheme
0208 776 7071
Westerham Hill Baptist Church
01732 867516
31
The Next Moving Church News
Edition
Copy
Deadline
Issue date
February
March 2015
11th January
1st February
The Moving Church News is published every two months. For
more information please contact Neil Walker.
Please send all contributions (Including advertisements)
to Neil Walker - [email protected] -01959 700815
Or leave at the Parish Office
ADVERTISE HERE!
An ad in full colour costs
from just £55
£40 per year.
1300 copies of Moving Church
1200
News are distributed in
Biggin Hill every 2 months
Provide your own material or we will
design an ad. for you
Contact Neil for more details
01959 700815
[email protected]
W. UDEN & SONS LTD
INDEPENDENT FAMILY OWNED
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
MONUMENTAL MASONS
Est. 1881
186 Main Road, Biggin Hill
Tel: 01959 573130
(24hr answer service)
OFFERING A FULL SERVICE
PREPAID FUNERALS AVAILABLE
PRIVATE CHAPEL OF REST
on the premises
Continuing to build on the family
traditions of personal and caring
service for over 100 years in the
area
We are always available to visit you personally to
make any necessary arrangements in the privacy of
your own home.
Branches at Petts Wood, Sidcup, Eltham,
Dulwich, Forest Hill, New Cross & Camberwell