Running the Flora Marathon A family experience In
Transcription
Running the Flora Marathon A family experience In
the All Saints newsletter All Saints Anglican Methodist Church Berkhamsted A Local Ecumenical Partnership June July 2005 Running the Flora Marathon A family experience In this issue A School Governor Roman Holiday Newsletter no 160 June July 2005 Contents All Saints' Church, Shrublands Road Berkhamsted Telephone 01442 870119 Editor's Notes Letters 345 Family News 5 6 2005 Centenary Year 6 The Flora Marathon 7 Being a School Governor Book Review An Unusual Visit to Rome 8 9 10 10 11 12 The Magic Formula 12 Alan Cox Obituaries 13 14 15 Young people 16 17 18 News events etc MFC, NCH 19 20 21 22 23 24 Hives save lives 24 Caring for our carers 25 Pentecost sermon 2005 26 27 28 Make Poverty History 28 29 Churchwarden and Vestry 30 31 Comings and goings Church Information This June/July issue is a bumper one; there are lots of people writing all sorts of articles. No complaint from me; there is some very good stuff written for us by our contributors. I also think it is good when we can get someone who has left to write something for us. This time it is Richard Pyke writing of his time with Alan Cox. Please note the early copy date for next time. Our printer, Tring School, breaks up for the summer holidays, and we have to give it to them before they disappear. The copy date for the August/September edition is Monday 4th July. 32 33 34 35 36 Editorial and Production Team Christina Billington, 13 Ashridge Rise, Berkhamsted, HP4 3JT Tel 01442 385566 email: [email protected] Chris Dipper, 3 Old Orchard Mews, Berkhamsted, HP4 2DQ Tel: 01442 873006 Marilyn Pain, Woodland View Farm, Rossway, Berkhamsted HP4 3UD Tel 01494 758898 email: [email protected] 2 Paul's letter W hen they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?' He said to him, 'Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.' Jesus said to him, 'Feed my lambs.' A second time he said to him, 'Simon son of John, do you love me?' He said to him, 'Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.' Jesus said to him, 'Tend my sheep.' He said to him the third time, 'Simon son of John, do you love me?' Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, 'Do you love me?' And he said to him, 'Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.' Jesus said to him, 'Feed my sheep.’ John 21: 15-17 T hroughout the Old and New Testaments we are called over and over to care for each other. In the times of Moses, God gave the law to the people. Whilst one of its objectives was certainly to establish and uphold a good relationship between the people and God it also sought to protect those least able to care for themselves. The God of the Old Testament has often been interpreted as being a vengeful God but, over and over again, we are brought images of grace and salvation in the writings of the Psalms and by prophets such as Isaiah and Jeremiah. The role of God’s servants is not to be underestimated in this; ‘A faithful friend is a secure shelter; whoever finds one finds a treasure.’ (Ecclesiastes 6:14) Christ came to us both to uphold and fulfil the Old Testament. In the New Testament we find that the care of all God’s children is central to the Gospel message. In each of the accounts of Jesus’ life and ministry we find him continually breaking new ground in enabling others to understand how it is that God cares for people and how subsequently we are called to care for each other. In stories such as ‘The Woman at the Well’ (John 4:4-30) and ‘The Good Samaritan’ (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus breaks new ground. We are forced to reconsider who our neighbours are and where our prejudices lie. When Naboth Muchopa, Secretary for Racial Justice for the Methodist Church, recently led worship at All Saints’ he focused on the second of these stories and said that the question at its heart is not, ‘What will the consequences be for me if I help?’ but rather, ‘What will the consequences be for them if I don’t?’ In the recent General Election campaign, it seemed to me that the major political parties assumed, possibly correctly, that the main question the electorate (usually described as “hardworking families”) wanted answered was, ‘What can you do for me?’ Sure, there was one day in the campaign that addressed the situation in Africa – and a lot of political point scoring went on that day – but mostly, the question, ‘What can we do for our neighbour?’ was ignored – except when the waters of asylum and immigration were yet again being muddied and there the answer seemed to be, ‘impose quotas and keep them offshore on an as yet unspecified island.’ In the light of the Biblical imperative to offer hospitality to the alien in our midst and to love our neighbour, are you thinking what I’m thinking? This year presents us with a unique opportunity to ask ourselves the question, ‘What can we do for our neighbour?’ and 3 answer it by freeing people from the poverty that binds them and causes so much unnecessary pain, anguish and death. We have the opportunity to end this shameful situation. In July, eight world leaders will meet in Scotland. They will have it in their power to deliver crucial changes on trade justice, debt and aid: changes that will make poverty history. But they will only use that power if enough people tell them to. So please, whether you want to congratulate Tony Blair on achieving his “historic and unprecedented third term” or not (?!), write to our Prime Minister and ask him to do absolutely everything he can to take advantage of the many opportunities during 2005 to stop a child dying needlessly every 3 seconds, just because it was born poor; ask him to use his international leadership to deliver crucial changes on trade justice, debt and aid. You can send your letter to him c/o House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA. What will the consequences be for your neighbours if you don’t? And, if you think that I am following or promoting a ‘left-leaning agenda’, we are both in good company. The Daily Telegraph recently accused the Church of England of doing just that in some prayers produced for the General Election campaign! The paper thought that there was bias in a prayer asking God for “a land where the weak are protected, and none go hungry or poor…” If this is ‘left-leaning’, so be it. It is also profoundly Biblical. The Bible leaves us in no doubt: God does have a bias and it’s to the poor. With every blessing Paul 4 A letter from John Malcolm “Church Life is Changing” T he above heading is taken from the opening line of a report introducing a survey to be called “The 2005 English Church Census”. It will survey almost 38,000 churches and the associated 23,000 church ministers (many ministers look after several churches). To be produced by Christian Research this will be the first major survey since 1998 and will be the fourth survey of its kind. What Peter Brierley, the executive director of Christian Research, has to say about this latest major survey of Christianity in England can be summed up by these words: “Church life is changing , and despite some of the gloomy headlines, not always for the worse! There are reports of churches growing of all denominations; there are stories of midweek increases, and the largest churches of all, including some cathedrals, say Sunday attendance is going up. Then there is the excitement of the emerging church and all that that may mean”. At about the same time the Church of England has issued church attendance figures for 2001-2003. For the first time in several years these show a small increase in numbers, particularly in weekday attendances. A ll Saints' has had its full share of change recently. The move to weekly joint services, the departure of both Father Mark and Father Martin and the sad death of Father Stephen and Rev Alan Cox are all quite recent events. Even our Methodist Minister has become a Father! (I was tempted to call him Father Chris, but thought better of it! - that’s an ‘in’ joke for those present on Sunday 1st May). Some people find change difficult and a few have moved on to pastures new. That’s only to be expected when we’re faced with a significant change to our routines. Change is never easy. I’m writing this letter in the week when we celebrate Ascension Day. Now that’s a church feast day that’s seen much change over the years. If we could imagine ourselves in St Peter’s on a sixteenth century Ascension Day, we’d find the church packed with people come to celebrate one of the three great festivals of the church year (the other two being Easter and Pentecost!). In the centre of the nave would be the great Paschal candle – no pews in those days. When I say ‘great’ Paschal candle I mean it. In late mediaeval times such candles reached enormous proportions with one in Salisbury Cathedral recorded at 36 feet high! After the Gospel reading for Ascension Day the candle would have been extinguished, signifying the fact that Jesus had left the earth and returned to his Father in heaven. Nowadays the Paschal candle traditionally stands to the north of the chancel and it isn’t removed until Pentecost Sunday. Go back to the very early church and you’ll find that until the late 4th century, Ascension and Pentecost were celebrated on the same Sunday. Change in the church, as in life, is nothing new. And I’d be prepared to lay odds that every time the timing of Ascension Day was changed there were those who found the change difficult and wanted to move on to pastures new. I’m encouraged by what is happening at All Saints and before closing would like to share a recent experience that has shown for me and my family the vitality of the Christian church around the world. In Christian terms the most significant change so far this year has to have been the death of Pope John Paul II and the election of Pope Benedict XVI. It so happens that by chance the Malcolm family were in Rome the week of John Paul’s funeral. That’s a story in itself, but for me the key to this issue of change and the position of the church worldwide is that of youth. Some four million pilgrims came into Rome for the funeral and the overwhelming impression was of young, not old, people. Whether lay or ordained a majority seemed to be in their early twenties or thirties. If you couple that with the estimated 2 billion people who watched the funeral on world wide television, you have an incredible testimony to the power of Christianity in our world. Church life has always changed and evolved, whether at local, national or international level. I hope that the 2005 English Church census will show that things in our own country are heading for improvement. If so, then as Peter Brierley says “the sooner we can trumpet the results from the housetops the better”. Watch this space! Blessings to you all John Family News T he death of Alan Cox in March after a long illness was a huge loss for the whole church community as well as his family. To Audrey, Paul and the other members of his family, we offer our love, prayers and concern as we join them in giving thanks for his life and ministry. Alan would have been the first to rejoice in the presentation made to Audrey Cox in May to mark her 50 years of church youth work. Thank you, Audrey. Our condolences to Barrie Allcott and his family on the recent death of his sister. Nancy and George Wood are mourning the death of their niece Carol Corbett (nee Smith). Carol was an active member of the 5 YPF and we offer our love and sympathy to all her family. Susan and Graham Doggett’s premature twin grand-daughters have been in our thoughts and prayers as have all the family. May Kempster is still most unwell. We assure her of our love and concern. We are glad to know that Brian Parsons is now more mobile after surgery and pray for his continued improvement. Karen Rance and Lee Wilson were married at All Saints on Easter Saturday. We wish them a long and happy life together. Congratulations and best wishes too to Edward Stewart and Luciana Viera who were married recently. Thomas James Holloway and Harry Oliver Mabbs were baptised in March. We welcome them into the church family. Congratulations to Barry and Christine Dipper who celebrate their Silver Wedding on May 27 Robin Wood has moved to Greenes Court. We hope he will be very happy in his new home. Alice Beaumont, Lydia McMunn, Hannah Wakely and Catherine Wilton were confirmed in April and we pray for them as they make this new commitment. David Williamson was honoured to be invited to preach in Wesley's Chapel when he spoke at the founder’s day service of the school in Sierra Leone at which he taught 50 years ago. We share his pleasure. We offer our sympathy to the family of Eileen Howlett who died recently. Eileen was a former member of the MFC and her contributions to the flower festivals were much appreciated. Our thoughts and prayers are with Martin and Geraldine Wright as they take up their new ministry in Reigate. We miss them very much. Jamie Spall had the excitement of being selected as a mascot to accompany the victorious Gossoms End Football Club to the famous 6 Anfield ground when they triumphed in the FA Club Cup. We continue to pray for the Judd family, Chris Billington and Jonathan and Ann Hayes and also assure our other less mobile friends including Maud Bandle, Jean Keys, Peggy Mardle, Gussie Barker, Muriel Gudgin, Margery Newton and Kath Tavener of our love and thoughts. Audrey Hope Teachings from Noah's Ark Don’t miss the boat.Remember that we are all in the same boat. Plan ahead. It wasn’t raining when Noah built the Ark. Stay fit. When you’re 600 years old someone may ask you to do something really big. Don’t listen to critics. Just get on with the job needing to be done. Build your future on high ground. For safety’s sake, travel in pairs. Speed isn’t always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs. When you’re stressed, float awhile. No matter the storm, when you are with God, there’s always a rainbow waiting. The Flora Marathon Jane, Andy, Ben and Hayley Elliott A weblink appeared – keep fit whilst having fun and involve the whole family. Want to know more, click here. I thought it sounded a good idea so I clicked. Before I knew it I had joined myself, Andy, Ben (10) and Hayley (8) up to take part in the family marathon. All we had to do was run, walk, cycle 25.2 miles between us before April 10th and then run the final mile after watching the marathon on telly on April 17th, unless you were one of the lucky ones picked to run it up in London. Two days later 4 flora family marathon caps arrived and a pedometer. We worked out that if I walked the children briskly to and from school for a week that tallied 2 ½ miles. I also went power walking for 2 miles most lunchtimes, plus we went out for longer than usual family walks at the weekends. After the first week I logged our miles onto the webpage and it was great watching the total go up. We read stories and training plans of celebrity families and felt good as we were doing much better. On April 2nd a letter arrived from London: CONGRATULATIONS YOU HAVE WON A VIP WEEKEND AT FLORA FAMILY MARATHON. I couldn’t believe it; I was shocked, the children started getting excited especially when I read out what our weekend entailed. Andy was working so I rang him; he wasn’t as enthusiastic! Saturday April 16th arrived; our suitcases packed we got on the 8.35 train to Marylebone feeling nervous and excited. At Marylebone we stepped off the train to be greeted by Anna (one of the PR team) who was holding a board ELLIOTT FAMILY it said – we felt like royalty! We were whisked to a waiting car and taken to Thistle Tower Hotel by St. Catherines Dock. This was where all the famous runners and celebs were staying. We were shown to our rooms – yes the children had one to themselves! We were given t-shirts and sweatshirts and left to settle in. At 1pm we met the other 9 families, the PR team and were taken aboard a private cruise where we cruised down the Thames, eating a delicious lunch. We docked at the London Eye, were shown to private pods and enjoyed our flight with goody bags for all. Back on the boat and taken to hotel to chill out before dinner. Showered and changed we were back in the foyer and found ourselves standing next to Kenzie from Blazin’ Squad. All the families walked to an Italian restaurant to fill up on carbs before our run. We sat with Blazin’ Squad as we ate and during the evening Lorraine Kelly popped in to say hello. 5.45am Sunday 17th April, the telephones in the room woke us up. We were off. Running gear on we boarded the coach and were taken to the green start (the womens elite start) where we met Steve Redgrave, Gordon Ramsey, Cheeky girls, Chris Parker, to name but a few. We warmed up and at 8.30am we were off. We were running our final mile, this is what our weekend was all about. 7 minutes later and second place Ben was finished, closely followed by Andy. Hayley and I finished in 12 ½ minutes. Medals were presented, photographs taken. Whisked off quickly as the womens race was about to start, back on the coach to the sports café where an amazing spread was put on. Tummies full we walked down to the VIP grandstand box where we watched the first runners cross the finish line. This was an amazing experience, we have done this for charity. If you would like to give please go to www.justgiving.com/Elliottfamily This was a weekend we will never forget. Roll on next year! 7 Being a School Governor …for eleven and a half years has been, at different times, fun, hard work, a burden, a pleasure, a nuisance, frustrating, time consuming but at all times it has been a privilege. F or those who don’t know I am currently Co-Chair of Governors at The Thomas Coram C of E Middle School here in Berkhamsted. I was the Chair for five years on my own and am co-chairing this year as I hand over the reins completely at the end of this year. So what do governors do? We meet regularly, either as a whole governing body or in smaller committees. We are described as the ‘critical friend’ – we are supposed to ask the school the difficult questions without being threatening because, above all, we are there to support the headteacher, the staff and the pupils. We are answerable to the Local Education Authority, Ofsted, the Diocesan Board of Education, parents and local Anglican churches. The Governing Body receives a small sum of money annually from the PCC's of St. Peter with All Saints, Sunnyside and St. Mary’s, Northchurch. As a Church school there are some differences to the way the school is funded and we have certain financial responsibilities. Having a separate fund has enabled us to contribute to small building projects and some ‘extras’ for staff and pupils. Each of these churches provides us with governors from their congregation. Most of the governors, as well as serving on a sub-committee, take responsibility for a curriculum area. This involves visiting the school two or three times a year to talk with curriculum leaders and observe classroom activities. We actually encourage governors to get involved by helping in the lesson rather than sitting at the back like an inspector. The purpose is to ensure the whole governing body has an overview of the curriculum. It is also an opportunity for staff 8 to talk to governors directly and drop heavy hints about what piece of equipment/football shirts/books would be really useful ‘if only we had the money’! We are responsible for approving and monitoring the budget although all the hard work is done by the school and we do have an excellent bursar. You don’t have to be a mathematical genius to understand it – I cope as long as I don’t get too much detail!! Some governors have been heavily involved in recruitment interviews for all levels of staff. It has probably been one of my favourite tasks – especially when I have seen newly qualified teachers grow into their posts and blossom and I find myself interviewing them for promotion. This has happened quite often at Thomas Coram. The cost of living in this area has meant we have had some problems with recruitment but we have usually managed to be fully staffed even if the method has not been conventional – God does indeed move in mysterious ways. We are responsible for our premises and some of our governors take a particular interest in ensuring the pupils and staff have a pleasant and conducive environment to work in. While I have been a governor the school has extended and improved the changing rooms beyond recognition. They have built a new library and refurbished two science labs and the food technology area. This has greatly improved the facilities for the whole school. Unfortunately we still have two mobile classrooms to cope with numbers but we do have plans to extend the main building. We will seek planning permission in the hope that funds will become available – but I’m sure there are schools in greater need at the moment. The Governing Body are required to approve attainment targets for the pupils. This is not something we enjoy. The school has always resisted setting unrealistic targets for pupils despite the LEA’s best efforts to persuade us otherwise. We do not get our knickers in a twist over league tables. We believe in enabling the individual child to achieve their best throughout their school career and not just in one week in May at the age of 11.fi The school provides many extra curricular activities including day trips which many governors have enjoyed as well as pupils. My favourite trip was a day out in London with a group of Year 8's who hadn’t gone on the residential trip to France. It was a loosely planned day! We were to go up to London on the train and then trek to various free landmarks, including walking down Whitehall from the National Gallery. I had made a phone call to Downing Street to see if there was any chance of getting through the gate and was told that if the children were in school uniform (which they would be) and were well behaved (well, they might be) they might be let in. It depended what was going on at the time, apparently. Well, we got to the gate and it was a good time and the children were well behaved so the gates were opened and we were let in. I don’t think the children could quite believe it – some of the staff couldn’t. But we have the photos to prove it! I think it might be a bit different now, sadly. It was a great day and very cheap! I like to think that we, as a supportive governing body, foster an atmosphere of trust and inclusivity and, as the majority of the members of the governing body are active Christians, we promote the Christian ethos of the school. T homas Coram School is a Church of England (Voluntary Aided) School with a strong Christian ethos but it is first and foremost a school for the community. The vast majority of our pupils have no church background. However the Governing Body is obliged to have a large representation from the Anglican churches in Berkhamsted. The Diocese are also able to make appointments and these are usually agreed between the Rector and the headteacher. The candidates do not necessarily have to be Anglican! And there is a requirement for a specific number of the church appointed governors to be current parents at the school. The work of the governor is often unsung and you may be blissfully unaware of the people in your midst who are or who have been school governors locally: Linda and Neil Bisset, Chris Dipper, Felicity White, Sheila Dawkins, Richard Hackworth, Peter Drury and not forgetting Mike Limbrick and Rod Cottrell who have moved away (not to escape me I assure you) – and that’s without starting on St. Peter’s congregation who are equally well represented. Linda Bisset is retiring at the end of this term after eight years as a governor at Thomas Coram during which time she has chaired the Finance Committee and acted as Treasurer to the Governing Body. She was also on the Appointment Panel while we were searching for a new headteacher – as this took almost two years the Appointment Panel got to know each other very well and, although we took our job very seriously, we managed to have a lot of laughs along the way! Linda will be very hard to replace but I would urge you to consider trying. If you 9 have a bit of spare capacity in your busy lives talk to Linda or me. Being a governor doesn’t mean taking on a leadership role (we have already found a new Chair for Finance). There is plenty to do behind the scenes. I won’t beat about the bush and suggest that being a governor is just turning up at six meetings a year. Governors have a lot of responsibility these days. Hertfordshire gives its governors an enormous amount of support and there is no need for anyone to feel that they don’t know enough about education to become involved. There are lots of courses to go on and the Governing Body at Thomas Coram subscribes to the training services so governors don’t have to pay anything for their training. We very rarely have long term vacancies on our governing body which means that the work is shared out and no governor should feel over-burdened. That is the prerogative of the Chair! I do encourage occasional frivolity and we have thrown some jolly good parties for the staff – great teambuilding! I have loved being a governor but it is time for a break – but don’t you lot go getting any ideas for filling up my time in the near future – I’m taking a break to spend more time with my family… Julie Wakely fade into obscurity? The book draws heavily on the recently discovered manuscripts at Nag Hammadi in Egypt to describe the state of the fledgling church; until this discovery, we had only the word of the winners in the arguments. The documents are those of other Christians whose points of view were discouraged and in the end almost lost. Constantine and the council of Nicea had such an all-consuming victory. But when we look at what they were arguing about, we are having the same arguments today. Was the resurrection physical or spiritual, was Jesus truly God on earth, or a wonderfully Spirit inspired man? Is the kingdom of God within us, and available for everyone, or is it only in Christ? Elaine Pagels takes us through the goings on in a very easy read. At the end I felt my whole idea of Christian doctrines had been given a reality facelift, I know now why they decided as they did, but I cannot help a wry amusement, in that they thought they settled the disputes in 325 at the council of Nicea, but 2000 years later the same questions are still being asked. And I think that is the real question. A very worthwhile read! Christina Billington Beyond Belief the secret gospel of Thomas by Elaine Pagels Book Review H ave you ever wondered why the Christian Church spends so much time and energy arguing and falling out over matters of doctrine? Well, Elaine Pagels book goes some way to explain this, in that, the church has always been like it, right from the beginning. The Gospel of Thomas she explains, had a significant following, but other Christians disagreed with it, and one of them wrote a Gospel to counteract the Gospel of Thomas, it is called the Gospel of John. So why is John the one we love, and why did Thomas 10 Some Jokes To err is human but to really foul things up requires a computer. The bed is where one good turn can get the whole duvet. To keep your marriage brimming With love in the loving cup, If ever you’re wrong, admit it, If ever you’re right, shut up. Ogden Nash Father: “Don’t you think our son gets all his brains from me?” Mother: “Probably. I still have all of mine.” An Unusual visit to Rome L ast January we booked an 8-day holiday for early April in Rome and Assisi, not dreaming what an eventful time it would be. We joined a Methodist Recorder readers group along with 46 other people. As we left home we knew the Pope was gravely ill, and most of us heard the news of his death in the same way as you – via television news - in our hotel rooms, on the excellent BBC world news service, on the evening of the day we arrived. People have asked how it affected our holiday. In many ways it made no difference to the planned visits, though some had to be rearranged to a different day. The one thing we had to omit was an audience with the Pope, booked for the Wednesday! Our leader was Rev. Kathleen Richardson who was the first woman to be President of the Methodist Conference back in 1990. She is now Baroness Richardson, a greatly respected member of the House of Lords, and Moderator of the Churches’ Commission for Inter-Faith Relations. When she was president she had an audience with the Pope and told us of their frank discussion of church unity. Our first glimpse of the Vatican City came on the next morning when our coach took us to the Ponte Sant’ Angelo Methodist Church in Rome for a morning communion service. This is just over the river from the Vatican. Our driver found several roads had been closed, but we had an excellent view of the huge number of TV vans and dishes assembled beside the river at the end of the long road which leads up to St Peter’s. Garibaldi’s chaplain was the first preacher at this lovely church and it has been an English language congregation since 1955, with ministers funded by the British Methodist Conference. It is part of the minority Protestant church in Italy and works in cooperation with the churches of the Federation of Protestant Churches, which is made up of Methodists, Waldensians, Lutherans, Baptists, the Salvation Army, and a number of free churches. They made us very welcome, and even provided lunch for us all. Afterwards we had some free time and were able to walk nearly as far as St Peter’s Square, with many others who were gathering to pay respect to the Pope. We saw the beginning of the preparations to cope with the expected crowds – the barriers, the portable toilets, the extra stewards and police drafted in from all over Italy – though at that time the date of the Pope’s funeral had not been announced. We had free time again on the next afternoon and returned to the Vatican City around 5pm - and heard sounds of clapping from within the square. Later we learned this was the moment when the Pope’s body had been carried into St Peter’s. The crowds were much greater now, and a long queue stretched right down from St Peter’s and out into other streets nearby. Stalls were piled high with free bottles of water. We saw a notice saying that St Peter’s would open again at 9pm – and felt we could not queue so long – but six of our party were braver and tougher! They queued for more than four hours and were among the first to pay their respects to the Pope when St Peter’s opened again – at the earlier time of 7.30pm. They spoke of the sense of privilege to be there, the atmosphere among the people in St Peter’s Square, the singing and chanting by some who had gathered there. The ‘outpouring of love, neither sorrowful nor triumphant, but done with a sense of warmth and hope’. The absolute quiet in the basilica, and atmosphere of rest and peace. After walking down the centre aisle they had a few moments to pray and commend him into God’s arms. 11 We left Rome for Assisi on the Friday morning, the day of the funeral, and we relished the empty streets. From early in the morning all cars and vans had been banned from the streets and from entering Rome. When we returned to Rome two days later we found the basilica of St Peter’s was open to the public again, though there were still many people gathered in the square, including a group from Poland. Throughout the week there was the sense of a community mourning, even among those who were not believers, and many large posters with a picture of the Pope, bearing the words ‘Grazie’. We were glad to have been there, but often voiced our concern for the safety of the visitors from all over the world – and the 200 heads of state. There was a great sense of relief that the funeral passed without incident. An unforgettable holiday! Ruth Treves Brown The Magic Formula It was like other Friday nights . . . . . The table was laid, gleaming cutlery, sparkling glasses! Wine chilled, soft music playing and candles lit, awaiting guests!! Oh no! We’ve got no milk for the coffees! Ow! What are we serving for main course again? Who’s coming around tonight. . . . . ? Oh yes! We don’t actually know!! I t was the All Saints' Safari Supper! The evening was again organised by Les and Freda Driver who must have the magic formula for getting 18 couples, fed four courses, at 15 different locations, all in one evening! So we were doing a starter for 8 people at 7 o’clock. It was unusual preparing for guests not yet known to us. This gave the evening an anticipation and excitement not normally experienced on a Friday night. Well not to us anyway! It was also strange having guests to the house while the 12 babysitter was there! Paul Timmis spent the afternoon creating a tasty curried parsnip soup for their starter! Everyone at their home enjoyed it! Well done Paul! Our starters were a choice of battered tiger prawns or stuffed mushrooms. Kate Spall, one of our surprise guests, has a friend who says “Life is too short to stuff mushrooms!” I now feel the need to be completely honest and admit that Tesco Finest had indeed produced and stuffed our mushrooms!! This was amusing as Steve her husband works for Tesco! We had a lovely main course at Ray and Jean Emsalls', and experienced carrot and cumin for the first time! This will definitely be served in our house in the future! On again then for dessert course. This time our hosts Peter and Jo Bryant decided that they had overlooked serviettes and had to instantly produce some to keep the standards high! Having said that, nothing could have topped their “Palestinian” Chocolate Dessert!! We had been informed that coffee was at 10 o’clock prompt, at the church hall, but yet more suprises! On to John and Gill Malcolm's instead! Thankyou to them for coffee and chocolates which we enjoyed as we compared our experiences and “journeys” to get there! Les Driver did suggest fancy dress for next time although he was in his African get-up this time! Shame the rest of us weren’t given the opportunity! It was a great opportunity to get to know more people in the Church, to put faces to names and names to faces! This was just our view of the evening. I’m sure there were many other tales to tell from other dining tables across Berkhamsted Thankyou to Les and Freda and all who took part! Alison and David Turner Alan Cox an appreciation W e wanted a tribute to Alan, where do we start? Alan was a dearly loved and much respected minister and friend. How can anyone give a truly fitting and adequate tribute to him? When he and Audrey retired a booklet was produced to celebrate their ministry at Berkhamsted. Many people contributed to this and so we thought a compilation of some of the items in this booklet would be just as pertinent now as then.They came from the hearts of his congregation then and are just as relevant now. “Sometimes people are a little like shoes, at first you really notice how new they are to you, but, as the years go on, they become part of you, comfortable, indispensable…but taken almost for granted, sometimes you only realise their value to you when they are gone” “Alan often started his talks with a story, to make us laugh – we had stories about his youth – stealing sixpence from Mother’s mantelpiece – the corduroy shorts his mother made, which he hated, his college days, and the people that influenced his life. The kindness he always showed when a member was ill by visiting them at home and in hospital was much appreciated.” “I was a hurt, bruised person, hanging on by a very fine thread to my faith , when Alan’s healing care showed me through his ministry that it was worth giving God another try. Through Alan many hurting souls that might have been lost have been found and shown the way home.” “This is a chance to tell the story of how Alan has been faithful in telling the story of Jesus, has proclaimed faithfully the evangelistic message and in so doing has seen many enter the Kingdom of God, grow in Christ and serve God in the world and the Church. Many ministers never see people enter Christian ministry, lay or ordained. Through Alan’s ministry many heard the call of God. At Alan’s ordination the congregation joined to pronounce him worthy of being ordained and all who have been influenced by his ministry affirm that decision.” “Alan came to us, Spirit led, when we greatly needed his type of ‘down to earth’ ministry, preaching a gospel which spoke to our very hearts, challenging us to share with him the church’s ministry, convincing us that God had given gifts to each one of us which we could use in His service – even a smile can be used for God! Alan introduced ‘Away Week-ends’ to our church. We had times of great fellowship and teaching, housegroups and many wonderful sermons and special times like Maundy Thursday ‘Upper-Room’ gatherings. In Alan we saw a man who walked humbly with God and practiced what he preached.” “Alan’s very quiet but dedicated pastoral care of us all. The church walks he led and arguing afterwards about how many miles we had actually walked!! Picnicking in the snow one Easter and seeing newborn lambs. We enjoyed much fun and fellowship but were also blessed with superb teaching. It was a joy to us to share with Alan one of his great ambitions when a coach load of us travelled 13 to Wesley’s Chapel to hear Alan preach from Wesley’s pulpit.” “We were often moved by Alan’s words at a funeral, so sensitive and appropriate, and his sense of fun coming through at a wedding but not marring it with trivialities.” “Alan was at his best when in full flow preaching the Word. His instincts were best when, in good Methodist tradition, he was preaching and leading worship.” “Thankyou Alan for your thoughtful and helpful interpretation of the Scriptures, for your friendship, caring and understanding of life’s many problems and for your lovely sense of fun and humour” A lan was born on 21st July 1926 and was brought up in the Christian faith. When he was 17 he was received into membership of the Methodist Church and remained in Methodism for the rest of his life. Alan was accepted for the ministry whilst at Cliff College (1948-9). He trained for the ministry at Hartley Victoria College (1959-53). Alan and Audrey married in 1955 and his ministry was supported and enhanced by Audrey’s many gifts. Alan was proud of his three children, Judith, Andrew and Paul who heard the call to discipleship and responded in faithful service. Alan wished to be remembered as one of John Wesley’s preachers. He was faithful in his studies and clearly presented the call to discipleship. His pastor’s heart shone through the whole of his life, as he faithfully visited and was a friend to his people. Wherever he served the whole community loved and respected him. Throughout his life Alan played sport and enjoyed gardening, walking, studying butterflies and was a gifted organist. He led pilgrimages to Israel and wrote a history of the Uzuakoli Motherless Babies Home. 14 After retiring he continued preaching until he was not well enough to do so. During his illness he experienced the peace and presence of Christ. Alan died on 18 March 2005 in the seventy ninth year of his life and fifty third year of his ministry. The Service of Thanksgiving for Alan was held on 4th April with over 350 people attending. Alan had wished this to be a joyful celebration with opportunity to praise and give thanks to a gracious God, to accept His love and forgiveness, to find comfort in worship together and to proclaim Jesus Christ as Saviour, Lord and Friend. The hymns he chose reflected his faith. It was a joyful service !! Marnie and Ida, and Paul Wilson Alan Cox I ’m indebted to Chris Billington for letting me know about the death of Alan Cox. Chris contacted me to ask whether I might right a few words about Alan. I’m honoured to be asked. Alan and I worked together as Ministers of All Saints' in the mid to late eighties. I have many fond memories. Alan had been minister in Berkhamsted for some time and welcomed me with his characteristic warmth and style of humour. We developed a good rapport and he became a valued colleague and a good friend. I did not find it an easy role as Anglican Priest in charge but in Alan I found a colleague of warmth and understanding. We shared I believe a joint passion for the Lord and his Gospel and I think we recognised that together we could encourage the very rich resources of All Saints', the many talented and gifted people in our two congregations. I must also add that one cannot talk about our relationship with out a mention of Audrey for whom I also hold the deepest respect, whose faith and spiritual gifts so much enhanced his own. Theirs was a wonderful example of Christian marriage and partnership of the Gospel. Between them they had helped to build a church that was confident, evangelistic and outgoing and ready to share. I shall always be grateful for Alan’s inviting me to go with him on Retreat to Scargill in the Yorkshire Dales. Together we sat at the feet of Gerard Hughes the author of “God of Surprises”. During that Retreat Alan lent me Gerard Hughes other book “In search of a Way.” I have to thank Alan for the many experiences of that Retreat, his company and the reading of that book that have helped shape my ministry ever since. As I prepare for my umpteenth pilgrimage to Taize with Bishop Christopher of Hertford it is as a result of the experience with Alan at Scargill. It was so typical of Alan’s kindness and generosity that seeing how much of an impression the book had on me, he made me a present of it and asked Gerard Hughes to inscribe it, thus allowing me an additional memory of a wonderful time together. I still have the book albeit that it is on loan to a theological student at Westcott House; I must ask for it back! Those few days together sum our relationship together and my knowledge of the wonderful man Alan was. Although he would not have wanted gushing sentimentality. Modest man that he was, it was the fact that we trusted and respected each other that meant we could encourage others like wise. Many then will still perhaps remember the musicals: our joint productions Saints Alive and While Shepherds Watched. With reference to the latter, I remember the last Sunday night performance when the whole of All Saints' was filled with people, news of All Saints' was filled with people, news had spread far and wide. We had run out of seats, the Rector arriving late could barely squeeze through the doorway. The cast having given of their best to the audience all evening, Alan still had the stamina to deliver the epilogue. Alan was a Christian through and through, a hundred percent genuine. Alan may you truly and deservedly rest in the peace of Christ. Your former friend and colleague Richard Pyke. Thank you Please accept my sincere thanks for the love and support given to our family over the last ten months. Thankyou for the network of prayer; we have been conscious of God’s presence with us however dark the days. Thankyou too for the generous gifts to the Motherless Babies Home, Nigeria, that Alan worked for all his life. We have now sent £2,320 to this work and a further £500 to the Hospice of St Francis in memory of Alan. As a family we give thanks to God for our lovely memories and we trust in Him for the days to come.. Audrey, Paul, Andrew and Judith Cox. 15 Children and Young People's Activities Chuckles Toddler Group Tuesdays 10.00 to 11.30am Service 10.15am. A bible story for the very young using puppets and lots of songs. or Songs 10.15am. Familiar and new rhymes, songs and lots of fun. Playtime 10.45am. Activity toys, home corner, quiet table and a messy activity. Coffee/juice and biscuits. Cost £1 per family. May 24 The lost sheep May 31 Half term June 7 Songs June 14 The lost coin June 21 Songs June 29 The 10 bridesmaids July 5 Songs July 12 The sower July 19 Picnic For further information contact Kate Spall (873470), Jenny Wells (870981) or Paula Storey (864148) Cradle Roll This is a meeting group for adults with children under 3 years old. We meet monthly for coffee and a chance for the children to play. We take it in turns to host this. New members are always welcome. Contact: Karen Pangbourne 870390 Explorers The new children’s group which meets during Sunday worship is called Explorers. We warmly welcome all children over 3 to join us in the Church Hall at 10am. We follow a set syllabus and do many enjoyable activities. We have divided Explorers into 4 age groups so activities can be geared to the needs of each age range. Trekkers are for 3-5 year olds. Hikers are for 5-8 year olds. Climbers are the group for 8-10 year olds and the above 10 year olds become Pathfinders. The main leaders are Audrey Cox and Carenza Wilton. New members are always welcome. Contact: Carenza Wilton (875147) Audrey Cox (866394). 16 Pathfinders meet on the second and fourth Sundays in the month, all welcome, the more the merrier. Contact Penny O'Neill on 01442 843422 email [email protected] or write Red House Farm, Little Gaddesden HP4 1 PL Please join us for a bike ride to be followed by a bbq @ 4:00pm @ Rebecca's house on Sunday 19th June - all welcome, bring your bikes and a picnic lunch to Church (or come for the bbq only) and we'll go from there. We'll also be having another sleepover - this time in Rebecca's garden in tents or en plein air on a date to be decided in July. Rebecca and Penny look forward to seeing you @ the above events. Well done to those who did the Berkhamstd walk. Pathfinder Games Club (for all children of middle school age) meets every Wednesday evening, from 7.00 pm -8.30 pm. Contact: Jimmy Young 384929 Youth Club for all young people; meets Thursday evenings in the Court House (7-9 pm). Contact: Jimmy Young 384929 We are A C E! ACE Youth Group gets together once a month and enjoy all sorts of social events. We are all between 10 and 14 years old and go along to All Saints Church. We usually meet on the 1st Sunday of the month, from 6:00 to 7:30; we meet our friends, play games and have a great time!! A few volunteers run our group and our parents help out in turn too. If you are interested in coming along call Kate 01442 873470, Marilyn 01494 758898 or Alison 01442 875564 Reachout I n the last Newsletter we talked about an organisation called ReachOut that is intending to do a mission to Berkhamsted Town between 25th-30th July. They intend to do this by organising a task force of ALL ages to go out and serve the community, cleaning up the streets and meeting community needs. This will hopefully show Christ's love to people not just through words but also in actions. There will be evangelistic celebrations each evening so those that are met during the day can be invited along where they will hear the message of Christ. Application forms should be in All Saints' Church by now. Whilst in its embryonic stage, many aspects need prayer, consideration and thought. We are looking for local sponsorship for the basic mission costs, innovative ideas of what would bless our community etc. If you are able to contribute in any of these ways please contact us. Strategically we very much value your prayer to see many lives changed through ReachOut and a powerful uniting witness to Berkhamsted town. A prayer meeting has been set up at Victoria Macdonald's, 9 Hall Park. They meet every Wednesday from 69.39pm; food and drink is provided. Adrian Abramian 01442 878466 or 07921220543 www.reachoutmission.co.uk [email protected] Audrey's Party I t was a shame if you were not at All Saints’ church on Sunday 1st May because, if you were not there, you missed a lot. It was a special day because Audrey had been teaching for 50 years and there was some present giving. Audrey had some flowers and a book that we had all written in. There were some other presents too, wrapped in gold and silver paper with bobbles on top. We said “thank you for teaching us” and the grown-ups just said “thank you”. There was a big cake that I helped make. Mum made most of it, and there were lots of other little treats. Audrey takes us to lovely places and we have a good time with her. By Imogen Jane Garner (aged 6 ½) from Explorers 50 years service O n Sunday, May 1st, we celebrated with Audrey Cox fifty years service in the Church, teaching and working with children and young people. A wonderful achievement. The sun shone and it was a happy morning at Church, although touched with sadness that Alan was unable to share this special day with Audrey. We were very pleased that their daughter, Judith and son Paul, were able to be with us. We welcomed members of the Y.P.F., some who no longer live locally, but came to share the occasion with Audrey. Visiting Minister Naboth Muchopa led the service, which was introduced by Paul Timmis. Chris Warren, who has known Alan and Audrey for 26 years, gave the presentation. He spoke of shared memories 17 of their time at All Saints', the Sunday School and the Young Peoples Fellowship, which Alan and Audrey started and at one time had over 60 members. He also mentioned her valuable work in previous churches. The presentation gifts included a cheque, an item of jewellery and a vase, which were given through the generosity of the Church Family. Chris also presented her with a special certificate from the Methodist Youth Department for 50 years service. Teachers from the Explorers, Margaret Ingram and Helen Garner, had compiled a book from the children and this was presented to Audrey by Explorer members, Imogen Garner and James Pangbourne, and was accompanied by a little speech from them. A basket of flowers was given by two of the younger members, Timmy Turner and Ben Pangbourne. Helen Garner (with assistance from Imogen) had made a delicious chocolate cake, which was enjoyed by everyone at the end of the service. People of all ages, young and old have been touched by Audrey’s care for over 50 years. You have guided so many young people, some of whom have themselves entered the Ministry. Thank you Audrey. Lesley Bradshaw Thankyou T hankyou for the generous and lovely gifts presented to me on Sunday, 1st May to commemorate my 50 years in children’s work. I feel privileged to have had the joy of teaching all those years and to have experienced such happiness with children. One of the most important things we can do as Christians is to teach children about the wonder of God’s love revealed to us in so many ways and the joy of committing our lives to follow Jesus, and 18 asking Him to be Lord of our lives. I am glad to be back on Sunday mornings with the children and working with a dedicated team of leaders. Audrey Cox President and Vice President of Methodist Conference 2005/6 President The Revd Tom Stuckey Tom Stuckey, Chair of the Southampton District, was educated at Yeovil Grammar School and City, London and Edinburgh Universities. He is passionate about the Methodist Church renewing confidence and enthusiasm for God. He would like to see churches develop a natural ability to speak about God and the faith in ways that make sense to people inside and outside the Church. He is married to Christine, with three children, Martin, Matthew and Joanne, and two grandchildren, Ben and Sam. Hobbies include playing the piano, watercolour painting and MG sports cars. Vice President John Bell John Bell, a retired business executive from the Chester and Stoke District, was educated at Grammar Schools in Sunderland and Newcastle. He has a special interest in the role of faith in the workplace, and in the selection and training of people for ministry. John is married to Joan, with two grownup children, Alison (a teacher), Martin (in IT). He enjoys reading history and politics, walking and gentle sports (he says he plays tennis "badly".) He is a Newcastle United supporter "through thick and thin”. News and Events Traidcraft Thank you for buying fairly traded goods in April and May to the value of £61.69 and £56.68. Next stalls are on June 5th and July 3rd. Contact Ruth Treves Brown (863268) for information about Traidcraft Saturday Prayers with ABC 8.00am for breakfast and fellowship, 8.20am for prayer. June 18th Sacred Heart July 16th Berkhamsted Baptist August 20th Sunnyside Please contact Billy Milton on 864393 with any queries. Country Walks Friday June 3 Saturday July 2 We keep these walks to about 3 1/2 to 4 miles and meet for lunch at approximately 12.30. If you are unable to join in the walk, why not come along & join in the sociable lunch time? You would be most welcome just let the leader know to expect you. contact 384713 for more information. All Saints' Newsletter You can now read the Newsletter in colour on the All Saints' website! http://allsaintsberkhamsted.org.uk/ or via http://www.stpetersberkhamsted.org.uk/ Network news We are pleased to welcome Rev. Caroline Weaver when we looked at some core questions like "What is Racism?" and “What is Justice?” We decided that racism is words or practices which disadvantage people because of their colour, culture or their ethnic or national origins; justice is a right and responsibility of all. That means justice is fair treatment and mutual respect in words and action. Caroline gave us this way of remembering what justice is: J - esus guiding my priorities. U - nderstanding other people ....as well as myself S - tanding alongside my weaker sister and brother T - aking time to hear (the views of) my enemy I - ntegral with the Gospel call. C - onstantly topical ...never "old hat". E - veryone's business ....starting with me. from Methodist Conference 2002 District Away Day Elaine Turner, President of Women's Network, will be leading a District Away Day at Chesham Methodist Church on Mon. 6th June 10.15 - 3.30. Details are on the notice board in the church or telephone 384713. Open Gardens Instead of our usual summer event you are welcome to visit "Open Gardens" on four Sunday afternoons from 2.30 - 4pm. Programmes, covering all four weeks, cost £2.50 Tring 12th June Mary Haywood, 10 Weavers Road; Barbara Clark, 72 Longfield Road; June Buchanan, 3 Hobsons Walk; contact 825625. Hemel Hempstead 19th June Lesley Pratt, 19 Longdean Park; Gretchen Chidwick, 61 Hillfield Road; Lucy Izzett, 1 Barberry Road; contact 254212. 25 and 26 June, Nash Mills Flower Festival Sat 10.00 - 5.00; Sun 2.30 - 5.00 contact 262773. Berkhamsted 2nd July Sue Judd, 9 South Park Gardens; Gill Lumb, 18 Cedar Road; Helen Garner 16 Hall Park Hill; contact 384713. Visit as many gardens as you like and invite your friends to join in. Womans network special event All are welcome to a Strawberry Tea on Saturday, July 9th from 4 – 6pm at the home of Ann and Jonathan Hayes, 21 Greystoke Close. Please park in Graemesdyke Road. A cream tea with Strawberries and Cream and a Strawberry Dessert! Please bring a cake for our Cake Stall; preserves are also very welcome. We look forward to seeing you. 19 Saturday June 25th St Peter's Churchyard Berkhamsted 10 - 3pm All the Usual attractions plus for this year only, Tower Tours! Bottle Tombola, Barbeque Music, Bric-a-Brac, Prize Draw, Cake Stall, Plants, Toy Stall, Crockery Smash, Punch and Judy, Refreshments, Dancing Display and much, much more! Don't forget to rummage through your house looking for suitable donations to the Fair and as always, volunteers are very welcome! For further details of the Petertide Fair contact Chris Clegg on 875818 or one of the committee members Julian Dawson,Paul Jullien, Stephen Wade, Bill Stead, Judy Ewart, David Booth Keep an eye on our website for the latest developments: http://stpetersberkhamsted.org.uk The Petertide Fair is a great day out for all the family and at the same time we raise as much money as we can for our causes. For 2005 we are supporting the following three causes: The Iain Rennie Hospice at Home is a registered charity providing specialist palliative care for terminally ill patients in their own homes within the Chiltern area of Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire. Following referral by their GP or District Nurse, the “Hospice at Home” cares for patients of any age suffering from life-threatening illnesses. 20 The Iain Rennie nurse carefully and sensitively assesses the amount of care needed and works closely with the family, District Nurses and other members of the Primary Health Care Team. Nurses then visit and care for a patient on a regular basis, building up a close relationship with the immediate family and extending their support into the bereavement period. The primary aim of all Iain Rennie nurses is to provide a dignified and pain-free life for as long as possible. Gossoms End Scout Group aims to promote the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potentials, as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities. The method of achieving the aim of the association is by providing an enjoyable and attractive scheme of progressive training, based on the scout promise and law, all guided by adult leadership. Send a Cow is a Christian charity that enables poor farmers in Africa to become self-reliant by providing them with livestock, training and advice. They work with some of the most vulnerable groups in Africa, including children orphaned by war, families affected by AIDS, and disabled people. Regular Activities at All Saints Ladies Meeting Meeting on Thursdays in the lower hall at 2.45. Anyone is welcome. Phone Rachel Stewart 864134 or Sue Sismey 866215 Transport is provided if needed May 26 Rev T Cavanagh May Mooring June 2 Rev Sally Long Jeanne Woodley June9 Lyn Curtis Joyce Ruberry June 16 Mike Sismey May Mooring June 23 Members Jeanne Woodley June 30 Freda Driver Joyce Ruberry July 7 AGM with Rev Paul Timmis July 14 Tea Party Grief and Loss Support Group Grief and Loss Support Group Visitors Meetings will be held at the Court House at 7.45pm on Mondays 20 June and 18 July (no meeting in August). Lunches at the Old Mill, Berkhamsted will be at 12.30pm on Wednesdays 15 June and 20 July. All who have been bereaved, whether recently or a long time ago, are welcome to come along. For more information contact Thelma Harris (865785). Praying for our Neighbours June 5 June 12 June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 Greystoke Close and Marlin Copse and Oaklands Lincoln Court Doctors Commons Road and Bay Court Charles Street (from Kings Road to North Rd) Charles Street (from North Road to Cross Oak Rd) Cowper Rd and Torrington Road and Nightingale Lodge Elm Grove and Sayers Almshouses Graemesdyke Road, right hand side and side roads (going up) Graemesdyke Road, left hand side and side roads (going up) Cleaning Rota May 30th June 6th Andrew and Cecilia Cole TBA June 13th June 20th June 27th July 4th July 11th July 18th July 25th Rachel Stewart Pat Hearne Felicity White Muriel Johnstone Ray and Jean Emsall Isobel Saffrey Ann Thompson Helen Temple Jean Merrett Jenny Hackworth Linda Bissett Sheila Dawkins A Week of Accompanied Prayer in Berkhamsted This is an opportunity for people to set aside a week during their busy lives to allow God to be more closely in touch with their daily world through prayer. Each person commits half an hour a day for a week to meditative/contemplative prayer and a further half-hour each day to meet with their trained prayer guide at a mutually convenient time. The purpose of the week is to help you with your prayer in daily life, suggesting ways of praying and giving appropriate texts from scripture to draw you into a deeper personal relationship with God. This structure enables a ‘retreat’ in daily life and is designed to meet you wherever you are in terms of life and spiritual journey. The week starts with an initial evening session on Friday 7 October (8pm – 9.30pm) at one of two venues. On the next 6 days (Saturday – Thursday) you will meet individually with your assigned guide at a mutually agreed time. The week concludes with a final evening session with everyone on Friday 14 October (8pm – 9.30pm) at Beulah Chapel in Kings Road. The cost will be £50 per person, which will cover the travel, hospitality and expenses of the guides. No one need be prevented from taking part in the week because of the cost. The organisers will accept whatever you feel you can afford and hope that some people will donate an additional sum to cover part or all of the cost for someone who would otherwise be unable to afford to take part in the retreat. Further information from Anne Strach (872542) or Jackie Harbron (873012). (Blue) application forms are available on the table at All Saints’. Since places are limited, please send in your application form as soon as possible and by September 10 at the latest. 21 House Groups and Meditation Groups Everyone is welcome to join any of the All Saints’ house groups. Tuesday Housegroup We are now meeting fortnightly at 2pm at 1, Montague Road, looking at some of the sessions in the book ‘Called to be Saints’. We would be very glad to welcome you along to join us. We usually finish with a cup of tea around 4pm. Ring Ruth (863268) if you would like more information. Tuesday The Hillside Group “He went up the hillside with his disciples and sat down and taught them there” (Matthew 5: 1-2) The Hillside Group meets at 8pm at 22 Upper Hall Park: Anyone from All Saints’ (Methodist or Anglican) or St Peter’s is most welcome to come. Contact: Rob and Julie Wakely, 22 Upper Hall Park, 01442 875504. Wednesday Housegroup Julian Meetings The Wednesday House group meets fortnightly on Wednesday evenings at 8pm. It is open to everyone and we welcome new members. We study the bible, pray together and share fellowship. If you would like to know more, contact Audrey Cox (Tel 866394). Wednesday June 8 at 11.30am Jenny Wednesday June 15 at 11.30am Ruth Home group on Thursdays Wednesday July 13 at 11.30am Jenny Wednesday July 20 at 11.30am Ruth The Home Group meets in house group members’ homes at 8 pm on Thursdays. Contact Linda Bisset (Tel 862115) Wednesday August 10 at 11.30am Ruth We meet roughly fortnightly at Jenny’s or at Ruth’s. All are very welcome to join us for about half an hour of quiet prayer - even if you have not done this sort of thing before. Jenny lives at 57, Meadow Road (870981) Ruth lives at 1, Montague Road (863268) Berkhamsted Quiet Places We next meet on Thursday June 23 from 9.30 – 12.30pm at Woodcock Hill, Durrants Lane, Northchurch. Our leader will be Charlotte Wright, painter and art tutor. Her title is “I was the craftsman at his side” (Proverbs 8: 30). It is helpful if you ring Frances Norrington on 871855 to reserve a place but you are also welcome just to arrive on the day. We offer an opportunity for stillness and reflection and for experiencing healing in the context of God’s love. Do come. 22 With General Elections not long past A candidate came home in the small hours and gave his wife the glorious news: "Darling, I have been elected". She was delighted: "Honestly?!" she cried. He laughed in an embarrassed sort of way. "Oh why bring that up?" Politician to aide: "About their charge that I am indecisive - do you think I should answer it, or let it go, or answer it in part, or what?" Methodist Friendship Club S eptember 2004-June 2005 Here we are nearly at the end of another Friendship Club year. We have had a variety of speakers. We have travelled to Kenya, South Africa, West Africa and the Pyrenees. Speakers on different parts of England including Berkhamsted and a great selection on other subjects. We have also had our regular monthly devotional evenings and many good evenings given by some of our own members, plus musical evenings and a Theatre trip. Our fund raising has consisted of a wonderful concert evening with Kate Semmens and David Berdinner which raised £823, Jumble Sale, Market Stall, Apple Fair, Coffee evenings (one of which raised money for the Tsunami Appeal) Project Tables and a Sponsored Walk. We also gave a donation of £100 to Marilyn Pain for the ‘Phakamisa Project.’ Our Projects for the year have been The Hospice of St. Francis and Home-Start. There are only 2 evening meetings left to come, for this year. They are 7th June Poetry Evening and 14th June - Closing Supper and A.G.M. We start again in September and welcome any ladies who would like to join us. The Club meets every Tuesday at 8pm in the Lower Hall. Kath Whitfield NCH T he second Sunday of July in every year (this year 10 July) is designated by the Methodist Church as ‘NCH Sunday’ when we remember and pray for the work of NCH which is the children’s charity of the Methodist Church. On that Sunday Audrey Cox will preach and various members of the Berkhamsted NCH Support Group will take part in the service. The child at the centre NCH Sunday 10th July 2005 NCH has pioneered family centre work since the 1960s and today around half of our projects are family and children’s centres which support parents and their young children who are vulnerable, under pressure, living in poverty or at risk from abuse. ‘No-one ever teaches you how to be a parent, and some people, especially if they haven’t had a good childhood themselves, really don’t know where to begin’ Vicky, mum at one of NCH’s family centres ‘You can sometimes go into a schoolroom full of four year olds and pick out the ones who are likely to have problems when they get older. They are the ones who are already behind because they haven’t had the play and learning opportunities that other children have. These are the children who start failing from the moment they start school, and many of them never catch up. It is a terrible thing for a child’s future to be decided by the time they reach four, but this can sometimes be the case." NCH family centre project manager: "If a child’s needs are met in these early years, and their parents or carers are supported in their responsibilities, the child benefits enormously and so do their families, communities and society as a 23 whole. That’s why NCH believes the child should be at the centre. NCH believes that every child should have the chance to live their life to the full and has been working to make this vision a reality for over 135 years. Please help our work to continue through prayer and giving on NCH Sunday, or through making a gift to NCH in your will to ensure that we can go on helping vulnerable children for many years to come. NCH Sunday is a special Sunday designated by the Methodist Church to remember the opening of the first Children’s Home and the work done today by its children’s charity. Worship materials, prayer cards and gift envelopes on The child at the centre theme are available free of charge from our Supporter Helpline 08457 626579 (calls charged at local rate, open 9am—5pm Monday to Friday). For more newsletter articles and other information visit www.nch.org.uk/methodist Give me the good ye know, That I, the child may grow! Light for the whole day long, Food that is pure and strong. Housing and clothing fair, Clear water and clean air, Teaching from day to day, And — room — for a child to play! From ‘The Child in the Midst’ 1923-24 Report of the National Children’s Home and Orphanage NCH Boxes All the NCH boxes have now been opened and I have banked the wonderful total £1006.90, an increase on last year of £200. Very many thanks to all box holders for helping to reach this amount. Mary Griffin 24 Hives save lives N ow bees are helping to save lives in Africa. Hives Save Lives – Africa (HSLA) does this by the simple measure of supporting beekeeping projects. Where people are living on less than 60p a day, just two hives can provide an income from honey that makes the difference between abject poverty and access to food, education and basic healthcare. The cost of a hive? Just £32.00. A beehive gives people the means to earn their own livelihood. It puts their future back into their own hands. It provided them with self-sufficiency and dignity, not aid. HSLA are building beehives specifically designed for African conditions in Uganda (creating more jobs alongside the honey production) and providing appropriate training. As the hives are established, production and marketing opportunities for other hive products create more jobs. The industry is self-sustaining, and culturally and environmentally in tune with local communities. A typical project supported by HSLA is an orphanage caring for 80 children in Uganda. Just 20 hives (and appropriate training), gives them a much-needed reliable annual income through the sale of honey and other hive products, plus the educational benefit for the children and the pollination value for surrounding crops. Hope for Africa? Yes, and on African terms, providing support directly to where it is needed most. Can you help? One painless way is to shop online at www.buy.at/hivessavelives, where you will find some of the biggest retailers prepared to pay Hives Save Lives a commission on your purchases, without costing you a penny more. To find out more or make a donation, please visit www.hivessavelives.com or call 01273 302586. Who cares for our six million carers D id you know that no fewer than six million people in the UK are voluntarily looking after loved ones? A recent survey found that 77 per cent of adults questioned would prefer to be looked after at home by a relative or friend, rather than in a nursing home or hospital, so with an ageing population the number of carers is likely to continue to grow. Carers’ Week this year runs from 13-19 June. This annual event raises awareness of issues affecting carers, who often face health and financial problems as a result of looking after someone else. Many carers don’t recognise themselves as such and are not aware of the support available to them. To give carers a break and highlight the support that they can get, thousands of events have been organised up and down the country. Two popular actresses, Pam Ferris and Miriam Margolyes are backing the week by speaking out about their own experience of looking after loved ones. “Having looked after my mother, I know how challenging yet fulfilling being a carer can be,” says Pam Ferris, who starred in the film ‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’. “Caring can be horribly isolating at times but my most precious memories of my mother come from the intimacy we achieved through the caring process.” Miriam Margolyes became a carer when her mother was chronically ill. She says, “I have been through the experience of caring for a sick and paralysed parent, so Carers’ Week is a cause close to my heart. It gives us all a chance to salute the wonderful people who step into the breach and look after a loved one, sometimes for a month, sometimes for a lifetime.” The Week is a joint activity by Carers UK, Help the Aged, an Cancer Relief, the Multiple Crossroads, Macmillan Cancer Relief, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Princess Royal Trust and Rethink, the charity concerned with severe mental illness. Spokesman Paul Matz says, “People with caring responsibilities make an enormous contribution to society but often, sadly, don’t get the help and support they need to lead fulfilling lives of their own.” From: Efficiency and Ticket Management Consultants To: The London Symphony Orchestra Re: Schubert's Symphony No. 8 in B minor. After attending a rehearsal of this work we make the following observations and recommendations: We note that the twelve first violins were playing identical notes, as were the second violins. Three violins in each section, suitably amplified, would seem to us to be adequate. Much unnecessary labour is involved in the number of demisemiquavers in this work; we suggest that many of these could be rounded up to the nearest semiquaver thus saving practice time for the individual player and rehearsal time for the entire ensemble. The simplification would also permit more use of trainee and less-skilled players with only marginal loss of precision. We could find no productivity value in string passages being repeated by the horns; all tutti repeats could also be eliminated without any reduction of efficiency. In so labour-intensive an undertaking as a symphony, we regard the long oboe tacet passages to be extremely wasteful. What notes this instrument is called upon to play could, subject to a satisfactory demarcation conference with the Musician's Union, be shared out equitably amongst the other instruments. Conclusion: if the above recommendations are implemented the piece under consideration could be played through in less than half an hour with concomitant savings in overtime, lighting and heating, wear and tear on the instruments and hall rental fees. Also, had the composer been aware of modern cost-effective procedures he might well have finished this work. 25 Pentecost Sermon 2005 I think it’s safe to say that people interpret situations differently. Ask two people to comment on an event that they’ve just witnessed or participated in and, chances are, they’ll find different things to say about it. Different things will have struck them as being important. There can be little doubt that people interpret situations differently. Take, for example, election night. As the results began to filter in, Peter Snow was clearly getting very excited playing with his swing-o-meter but he was surely the only one getting so excited. The result was generally considered to be a foregone conclusion by most commentators and exit polls: Labour would be returned to government but with a reduced majority. And so it proved. Yet, time and time again, as various politicians of all parties quivered and quaked before Jeremy Paxman, each proclaimed the expected result a victory for their party. And they’d all perhaps have been justified. Except Robert Kilroy Silk! Or take a sporting event. This weekend sees four teams entering the Championship play offs to see who’ll be playing Premiership football next season. Yesterday, Ipswich fought back to earn a 2-2 draw with West Ham. No doubt this’ll have been viewed as a great comeback by delighted Ipswich fans. West Ham fans – who saw their side move into a 2-goal lead – will no doubt be less than happy that they’ve thrown away such an important advantage. Or take a personal dispute or disagreement. Here each person involved thinks…no, believes…that they’re in the right and that the other is in the wrong: hence the dispute. People interpret situations differently. Of course, situations aren’t static: they're constantly changing and evolving. The landscape can alter dramatically; new horizons can appear suddenly. What strikes one person as being highly significant at one point might later be viewed to be less 26 significant as the ground shifts. Another person may continue to see it as being of key significance despite the changing landscape or, conversely, may never have seen its significance at all. So, here again, it’s easy to see how different interpretations of a situation come to be offered. E ven so, it’s difficult to see how John and Luke can identify the coming of the Holy Spirit – the same situation, if you like – with such different events. The two accounts couldn’t have been more different if they’d tried. In Acts, Luke describes a very public event that takes place at the Jewish festival of Pentecost: 50 days after Passover (when Jesus had been killed). Sure, the account begins with Jesus’ followers sitting together in a house but even here we’re not necessarily talking about the disciples but all the believers – probably in the region of 120 people if Acts 1:15 is any indication – and others are soon drawn in as the situation develops so that by the end, the event – which has presumably moved outside – is witnessed by great crowds of people. In John, we’re offered a description of a private, intimate moment shared between Jesus and his disciples on the night of his resurrection. It begins and ends with Jesus and his disciples gathered together in one room. In the account in Acts, the coming of the Spirit is described in dramatic terms and with poetic language. Again, everything takes place on a grand scale. ‘And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind.’ ‘It filled the entire house.’ ‘Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them and a tongue rested on each of them.’ ‘All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.’ ‘Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem.’ ‘Each one heard them speaking in the native language of each.’ Again, the picture painted by John is quite different. The coming of the Spirit is described in matter of fact terms, using simple language. Jesus ‘breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”’ The Spirit that comes with great power in Acts, in John comes to the disciples as gentle breath. If we were trying to square these accounts we might say, as others have done, that what happens in John is a foretaste for the disciples of what is to come for all believers in Acts. Or we might say, as others have done, that the disciples received the Spirit in part in the way that John describes and were later filled with it as Luke says. I’d say, ‘Life’s too short to try and square the varying accounts!’ The gospel writers (and Acts is an extension of Luke’s Gospel) each offer their own and different interpretation of the Jesus event. How or when or where something happened is less important to them than why it happened. And so it should be for us here. The coming of the Holy Spirit – however it happened – took place in fulfillment of a promise that Jesus made to his followers before his death, that he’d send them the Paraclete (John 14: 16) – an advocate to plead the cause of the guilty; a counsellor to give advice and guidance; a comforter; a giver of strength and, always, a helper. In Acts, Luke focuses on the way in which the Spirit gives Jesus’ followers the strength, courage and ability to communicate God’s promise of salvation in Christ to all peoples. John focuses on the gift of forgiveness that the new community – the Church – will now be empowered to offer. Both then see that with the gift of the Spirit comes the promise of new life. of new life. So here, as elsewhere, it’s more fruitful to ask the why question than the how or when or where questions. But there’s another important thing to note: and both Luke and John are in agreement on this. Jesus’ followers are together when the Spirit comes. They might be talking about different numbers – believers or disciples – but the fact that they’re together is crucial. When, on the night that he was betrayed, Jesus prayed for his disciples, he prayed that they ‘may be one’ (John 17:11): that they’d stay together and experience a unity based on God’s love. In the days that followed that prayer, the situation in which the disciples find themselves constantly changes and evolves. The landscape alters dramatically – as Jesus is arrested, tortured, killed and buried. All confidence gone, their lives are filled with uncertainty and they fear for the future. But new horizons can appear suddenly, and so it is for the disciples when the risen Jesus appears in the midst of them. The ground may well have shifted, but because they remained together they were in a position to receive the Spirit. The Spirit may well come to individual followers and be a blessing to them, but it's God’s gift for the Church, that its work – and God’s purposes – might be fulfilled. If the first followers of Jesus hadn’t stayed together, there would’ve been no Church to empower. Staying together is then important. n recent months our life together at All Saints’ has continued to change and evolve. We’ve come together as Anglicans and Methodists each week in worship. This is a step that we’ve taken with confidence, believing that this journey to being one is what God wants for us and of us: believing that this is where the Spirit I 27 is guiding us and leading us. For us all, the landscape has altered dramatically – and that’s not easy. And, since Easter, the ground has shifted again – and that’s not been easy either. So it’d be understandable if some here have lost some confidence in the decision that we made together; it’d be understandable if some here were feeling uncertain or even fearful about the future. It’d be understandable. We’re only human. And we interpret situations differently. But if this is how you’re feeling, remember that situations aren’t static: they're constantly changing and evolving. The landscape can alter dramatically and new horizons can appear suddenly, as Pentecost proves. And surely, another powerful message of Pentecost is that God can only help us move forward if we stay together; the Spirit can only touch this community and set it on fire, if there’s a community here to touch. If the disciples had drifted off because they thought they’d had enough, there’d never have been a Church at all – and God’s purposes would’ve been denied. But a couple of handfuls of disciples, in John, or around 120 believers in Acts (about the average number of worshippers here at All Saints’ since we came together) hung in there and, as a result, made transformation more than a possibility. If we drift off now, who knows what we’ll be denying God the possibility of doing in this place. So our prayer this Pentecost must surely be that we remain together and remain open to where the Spirit might lead us. For in such togetherness comes a unity based on God’s love. And with the Spirit comes the promise of new life. Amen. Rev Paul Timmis 28 Make Poverty History 2005 I f you have your white band, have emailed Tony Blair and have booked your seats to Edinburgh there are still lots of other ways to get involved and show your support for Make Poverty History. 4 June Break the Chain On 4 June, The Diocese of Winchester and the Winchester branch of the Mothers Union are arranging an event called 'Break the Chain'. The event will start at 12:00 noon in the Abbey Gardens, close to the City centre. At 1:00pm there will be a procession through the City centre and on to Winchester Cathedral, when we will surround this beautiful and historic building with a chain of people as a sign of solidarity at 2:00pm. The afternoon will include key speakers (t.b.a) but will include the Bishop of Southampton, The Rt. Rev. Paul Butler, Christian Aid and others. We hope to have a festival atmosphere which will include stalls from Christian Aid, Traidcraft, a Christian puppet theatre, balloon modelling, Christian band Namelessmusic and lots more. All are welcome. For more details please contact David Hinks on 01962 624806 or email [email protected]> 20-26 June Refugee Week 24-26 June Glastonbury Festival 01-July White Band Day 1 International White Band Day 1, when across the globe, in the South and in the North, millions of people will wear a white band as an act of solidarity against poverty and call for world leaders to do more to eradicate poverty. 2nd July G8 Mobilisation Edinburgh As the leaders of the world's richest countries gather in Scotland for the G8 summit, join tens of thousands of others in Edinburgh on 2nd July demanding trade justice, debt cancellation, and more and better aid for the world's poorest countries. Be there. Make your voice heard. Why should I come to Edinburgh? We want as many campaigners and members of the public as possible to show the Prime Minister and his fellow G8 leaders that the UK public cares enough about global poverty and injustice to come in person to Edinburgh, just as Jubilee 2000 did at the Birmingham G8 in 1998- but on an even greater scale. What will be happening on the day? The day's events will start from 11am, and will include: rallies with international speakers, celebrity supporters and music the creation of a giant human white band around Edinburgh city centre, with staggered starts at 12pm, 1pm and 2pm - so no need to rush! entertainment, 'market stalls' and activities an opportunity for you to send your messages directly to the G8 meeting in Gleneagles The event will be a family friendly, safe and fun day - so bring as many people as you can! Additional new information will be released as soon as it becomes available. 04-July Global Student Forum '05 "Hungry for life?" A National Conference for 6th formers from UK schools. Key sixth form students from schools across the country exploring issues of trade, debt and aid. 13-July BOND/MPH Parliamentary Launch of UK Presidency 13-July Twentieth anniversary of Live Aid 10-Sep White Band Day 2 Across the world millions of people will show their support for the fight against poverty by wearing a white band, and will call on world leaders to do more to eradicate poverty. See http://www.makepovertyhistory.org for more information. A Prayer Lord, since you exist, we exist. Since you are beautiful, we are beautiful. Since you are good, we are good. By our existence we honour you. By our beauty we glorify you. By our goodness we love you. Lord, through your power all things were made. Through your wisdom all things are governed. Through your grace all things are sustained. Give us power to serve you, wisdom to discern your laws, and grace to obey them at all times. By Edmund of Abingdon, c. 1180 1240 Scholar and Archbishop of Canterbury 29 What have I done? I s this the question every newly elected churchwarden asks? Over the weeks after being approached and asked to stand for election and before being elected there may be time to try and find out what is involved. Then after the election, and before admission to office at the Archdeacon’s Visitation, the reality begins to become apparent! For me, in this year of clergy vacancy in the parish, it has meant a possibly steeper learning curve than would happen usually. For, of course, not only did the election of wardens occur during a vacancy, with no Rector in place, it also coincided with the ending of Martin’s ministry at All Saints’ and I had not served as a deputy warden previously. It is also a time of change and reorganisation – for the parish, in the setting up of a Team Ministry with the Gaddesdens, Potten End and Nettleden, and, for us, at All Saints’ in the first months of fully joint worship on Sunday mornings with new patterns for worship still evolving and not yet familiar. From a purely practical perspective, this meant I was immediately involved in trying to find organists for the Anglican–led services in the following few weeks. The telephone was in use constantly and I even resorted to a mobile phone when Michael needed to make urgent calls at the same time! Over the last few weeks I have become aware that we have an unusual situation, for, not only do we have visiting Anglican clergy to take a Eucharist, we may also have an organist who is not familiar with the service either! Mix this in with a churchwarden only just beginning office…… I think you might see the picture emerging! But that isn’t the full picture, for it 30 doesn’t take into account the help that has come already from so many people which is certainly much appreciated. I am also very grateful to Peter Bryant and Gill Malcolm for sharing the deputy churchwarden role and we continue to learn together the many tasks involved and we hope you will continue to support us both in practical ways and in your prayers. In the parish, churchwardens represent the laity and work closely with the minister and, in addition, the churchwarden is also a bishop’s officer, responsible and accountable to the bishop. I am writing this just a couple of days after the Archdeacon’s Visitation at St Peter and St Paul, Little Gaddesden when Carole and I were admitted to office along with many churchwardens from other parishes in this part of the diocese. The year lies ahead. With God’s help, I will do my best. Tracy Robinson From the vestry M any churches have been grappling recently with the question of what is needed to become a place where Christian disciples can really grow in confidence and share infectious enthusiasm about their faith. In the Church of England over the past decade there have been a range of publications and initiatives that explore the features of a “healthy church”. Within the Methodist church, the General Secretary, Revd David Deeks, has been having conversations around all the districts, asking, under the banner of “Our Calling”, “Where are we heading?” The result of these conversations has been a report entitled “Priorities for the Methodist Church”, which was adopted by Conference in 2004. I n summary, the report says this: In partnership with others wherever possible, the Methodist Church will concentrate its prayers, resources, imagination and commitments on this priority: To proclaim and affirm its conviction of God’s love in Christ, for us and for all the world; and renew confidence in God’s presence and action in the world and in the Church. As ways towards realising this priority, particular attention will be given to the following: Underpinning everything we do with God-centred worship and prayer Supporting community development and action for justice, especially among the most deprived and poor – in Britain and worldwide Developing confidence in evangelism and in the capacity to speak of God and faith in ways that make sense to all involved Encouraging fresh ways of being Church Nurturing a culture in the Church which is people-centred and flexible At the Methodist General Church Meeting and also at the joint leadership meeting we began to think about the challenges that this poses for us, as we start reflecting on our priorities at All Saints’. We need to recognise that we can’t do everything, and that we should focus our resources on our gifts and strengths and in those areas of particular concern to us. It will take time to work out what our priorities should be, but we hope that everyone will be involved in the process as we develop our thoughts over the next few months. Kate and Steve Spall Thank you Phakamisa, A heartfelt thank you to the MFC for hosting Glenda Howieson from Phakamisa, South Africa in April. Your welcome was wonderful and not least the very generous cheque you gave towards the work of Phakamisa. May our Lord continue to bless you. Marilyn Pain The Odd Typo S ome of you have noticed a few typos in this magazine now and then. To improve this I thought I would publish a few rules for contributors.- This is meant to be humorous! 1. Verbs HAS to agree with their subjects. 2. Prepositions are not words to end sentences with. 3. And don't start a sentence with a conjunction. 4. It is wrong to ever split an infinitive. 5. Avoid clichés like the plague. (They're old hat.) 6. Also, always avoid annoying alliteration. 7. Be more or less specific. 8. Parenthetical remarks (however relevant) are (usually) unnecessary. 9. Also too, never, ever use repetitive redundancies. 10. No sentence fragments. 11. Contractions aren't necessary and shouldn't be used. 12. Foreign words and phrases are not apropos. 13. Do not be redundant; do not use more words than necessary; it's highly superfluous. 14. One should NEVER generalise. 15. Comparisons are as bad as clichés. 16. Eschew ampersands & abbreviations, etc. 17. One-word sentences? Eliminate. 18. Analogies in writing are like feathers on a snake. 19. The passive voice is to be ignored. 20. Eliminate commas, that are, not necessary. Parenthetical words however should be enclosed in commas. 21. Never use a big word when a diminutive one would suffice. 22. Use words correctly, irregardless of how others use them. 23. Understatement is always the absolute best way to put forth earth shaking ideas. 24. Eliminate quotations. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "I hate quotations. Tell me what you know." continued over the page 31 Comings and goings Baptism 6 March Lauren Hall Confirmation(at St Peter's Church) 16 April Alice Beaumont Lydia McMunn Hannah Wakely Catherine Wilton Weddings 26 March Karen Rance and Lee Wilson 23 April Luciana Vieira and Edward Stewart Funerals 30 March Norman Barton 4 April Alan Cox 3 May Eileen Howlett Judith Limbert Gillian Malcolm Michael Robinson Philippa Seldon Deanery Synod: John Banks Alan Conway Mike Eller Patrick Lepper Jenny Wells St Peter's Area Committee: Julian Dawson David Ewart Rachel Hill Polly Rafter Bill Stead Anne Vickers All Saints' Area Committee: Andy Beaumont Peter Bryant Chris Dipper Isobel Saffrey Felicity White New Rector We are please to see that a new Rector for Northchurch and Wigginton as been appointed. The Revd Jonathan Gordon has been working as Chaplain to Southampton Institute since 1998. He is married to Rachel and has three daughters. APCCM At the recent St Peters and All Saints APCC meeting the following people were elected Anglican Officers 2005 Churchwardens: Carole Dell - St Peter's Tracy Robinson - All Saints' PCC: Linda Bisset Chris Clegg Peter Drury Barbara Groet Richard Hackworth Kate Hennessey Christopher Hunt Patricia Hunt Paul Jullien 32 Typos continued 25. If you've heard it once, you've heard it a thousand times: Resist hyperbole; not one writer in a million can use it correctly. 26. Puns are for children, not groan readers. 27. Go around the barn at high noon to avoid colloquialisms. 28. Even IF a mixed metaphor sings, it should be derailed. 29. Who needs rhetorical questions? 30. Exaggeration is a billion times worse than understatement. And finally… 31. Proofread carefully to see if you any words out Services for June and July Anglican Methodist Services - all to be held at All Saints' Church unless indicated otherwise For information, (A) denotes Anglican led and (M) denotes Methodist led. June July 5 June 10am Eucharist (A) Rev Liz Hughes 3 July 12 June 8.45am Communion (M) Rev Paul Timmis 10am Morning Worship (M) Rev Paul Timmis 6.30pm Evening Worship (M) Jenny Harris 19 June 10am Communion and Baptism (M) Rev Tony Cavanagh 6.30pm Evening Worship (M) Clifford Watkins 26 June No 8.45am Eucharist 10am Morning Worship (A) John Malcolm 6pm Circuit Songs of Praise at Nash Mills 10 am Eucharist (A) Rev Jane Bannister 10 July 8.45am Communion (M) Rev Paul Timmis 10am Morning Worship (M) Audrey Cox 6.30pm Evening Worship (M) Rev Tony Cavanagh 17 July 10am Communion (M) Rev Caroline Weaver Sun 6.30pm Pepper Praise at Collegiate School 24 July No 8.45am Eucharist 10am Morning Worship (A) Jenny Wells 6.30pm Evening Worship (M) John Seddon 31 July 10 am Eucharist (A) Rev Miriam Mugan 6.30pm Evening Worship Rev Bill Andrews Weekday Anglican services: Eucharist Tuesday 9.30am Evening Prayer Friday 5.00 pm Morning Prayer Saturday 8.45 am 33 Diary Events 2005 SEPTEMBER 13 Tues 14 Wed 15 Thur The following is a list of social events and key church meetings in 2005 17 Sat MAY 21 Sat 25 Sun 25 Wed JUNE 7 Tues 8 Wed 9 Thur 14 Tues 18 Sat 21 Tues 22 Wed 25 Sat 26 Sun 8am ABC Prayer Breakfast at All Saints 7.30pm Chiltern Chamber Choir at St Peter’s 8pm Church Council Meeting 8pm Methodist Circuit Meeting at Cupid Green 7.30pm Company AGM and 8pm Joint Council at Oxfield Close 8pm Christmas Tree Festival Meeting 8pm Methodist LP Meeting at Tring 8am ABC Prayer Breakfast at Sacred Heart Church 8pm PCC 8pm Leadership Team Meeting Petertide Fair Explorers’ Picnic at Crabtree Farm, Ley Hill JULY 9 Sat 4-6pm Women’s Network Strawberry Tea at 21 Greystoke Close 16 Sat 8am ABC Prayer Breakfast at Berkhamsted Baptist Church 17 Sun 6.30pm Pepper Praise at Collegiate School 23 Sat 8am ABC Prayer Breakfast at Sunnyside Church 25-29Mon-Fri ReachOut week 30 Sat ReachOut Celebration AUGUST 20 Sat 34 8am ABC Prayer Breakfast at Sunnyside Church OCTOBER 2 Sun 7–14Fri-Fri 11 Tues 14 Fri 15 Sat NOVEMBER 1 Tue 9 Wed 13 Sun 19 Sat DECEMBER 2-4 3 Sat 13 Tues 17 Sat 18 Sun 8pm Methodist Circuit Meeting at Nash Mills 8pm Area Committee 8pm Methodist Pastoral Committee 8am ABC Prayer Breakfast at St Mary’s Northchurch Harvest Festival celebration 3pm Hospice Service Week of Accompanied Prayer 8pm PCC 8pm Bishop of St Albans to preside at All Saints service to celebrate the centenary. 8am ABC Prayer Breakfast at St Peter’s 8pm All Saints’ Day service 8pm Area Committee Remembrance Sunday 8am ABC Prayer Breakfast at Northchurch Baptist Fri-Sun Christmas Tree Festival Festival Concert 8pm PCC 8am ABC Prayer Breakfast at Sunnyside Church 6.30pm Carol Service The All Saints Prayer O God our heavenly Father, your Son Jesus Christ prayed that we might be one as you and he are one. Look with compassion on your children of All Saints'. Teach us to put aside all our prejudices and fears, to seek to understand your purpose for us, and to use together our different strengths and insights. Grant us courage to follow your leading and humility to learn from each other, so that in unity and love we may reflect your glory, both in worship and in daily life. We ask this in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen For your information Methodist weekly Sunday Notices Mandy Perkins 875255 email [email protected] Women's Meeting Sue Sismey 866215 Rachel Stewart 864134 Emmaus Group Anglican weekly News for Pews John Malcolm 874993 email [email protected] Jean Green 878227 email [email protected] Methodist choir and organist Church and Halls Booking Jenny Ginn 866476 Ruth Treves Brown 863268 email [email protected] Anglican choir Y.P.F. Jimmy Young 384929 email [email protected] Peter McMunn 874894 email [email protected] Anglican organist Pathfinder Games Vacancy Jimmy Young 384929 email [email protected] Catering Anglican Pathfinders Penny O'Neill 843422 [email protected] Gill Lumb 863885 [email protected] Chris Dipper 873006 Flowers Explorers Sue Sismey 866215 Audrey Cox 866394 Carenza Wilton 875147 email [email protected] Joint Treasurer Nigel Garner 865675 email [email protected] Chuckles Toddler Group Jenny Wells 870981 Kate Spall 873470 email [email protected] M.F.C. Mary Griffin 874736 Tape Recordings of Services Janet Conradi 833402 Church Cleaning Rota Kate and Steve Spall 873470 email [email protected] NCH Mary Griffin 874736 Christmas Tree Festival Mike and Sue Sismey 866215 Posters and Notice Boards Ruth Treves Brown 863268 Christina Billington 385566 Kath Whitfield (porch) 865132 35 Church Ministers and officers All Saints Church Telephone 870119 Methodist Minister Local Preachers The Revd Paul Timmis 32 Finch Road Tel 866324 Vacancy Audrey Cox Brian Parsons Clifford Watkins David Williamson Arthur Wray Ruth Treves Brown (on trial) Rector Youth Worker Anglican Priest in Charge Vacancy Jimmy Young Tel 01442 384929 Supernumerary The Revd Barrie Allcott Joint Church Council Mike Sismey Secretary Nigel Garner Treasurer John Banks Halls Committee All Saints Church Churchwardens Tracy Robinson Peter Bryant and Gill Malcolm Stewards David Pain Cecilia Cole John Wignall Diocesan Lay Minister Christina Billington Readers Jenny Wells John Malcolm 36 All Saints' is an Anglican/ Methodist Local Ecumenical Partnership. Through its Anglican congregation it is part of the Parish of Great Berkhamsted (with St Peter's Church) and the Diocese of St Albans. Through its Methodist congregation it is part of the Hemel Hempstead & Berkhamsted Circuit and the London North-West District. All Saints' is a member of the Association of Berkhamsted Churches.
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