South Kent Circuit Magazine, June/July Edition

South Kent Circuit Magazine,
June/July Edition
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Page1
Page2
South Kent Methodist Circuit Ministerial Team
Page3
From the Manse
Page 4
Candidating for ordained Presbyteral Ministry
Unexpected but Relevant
Page 5
Don’t Miss the Sunrise
Page 6
Circuit Prayers
Page 7
Page 8
Circuit News
Appledore
Charing
Dymchurch
Page 9
Elham
Page 10
Folkestone
Grace Court
Church of the Good Shepherd, Hamstreet
Page 11
Headcorn
St Michael’s, Hythe
Page 12
UCA Kennington
Lydd
Page 13
Lyminge
Page 14
New Romney
Rhodes Minnis
Ruckinge
Page 15
St Andrew’s, Cheriton
Shadoxhurst
Page 16
Tenterden
Page 17
Francis Harry Carey
MWiB News
Page 18
News from Carys
Page 19
South Kent Circuit needs you!
Page 20
Rainbow Centre Annual Meeting
Page 21
Circuit Safari
John Wesley School Summer Fete
Page 22
On the First Day
Invicta Wind Orchestra, Summer Concert
Page 23
Dates for your Diary
Kennington Music Night
Page 24
Circuit Map
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SOUTH
KENT
CIRCUIT MAGAZINE
June/July 2016
The seeds that fell in good soil stand for those who hear the
message and retain it in a good and obedient heart. Luke 8:11
The Methodist Church
South Kent Circuit
Price 30p
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South Kent Methodist Circuit Ministerial Team
Telephone Rest Day
Rev Sam Funnell
01303 240228
Tuesday
Rev Robin Blount
01233 629611
Rev Paul Dean01233 879358Monday
Rev Tricia Fogden
01233 758250
Rev Philip Luscombe
01233 621216
Friday
Rev Judy Muxlow
01580 291016
Rev Kevin Taylor
01303 261500
see 1 below
Rev Rod Whateley01233 732274Thursday
Deacon Carys Woodley01233 500244Friday
Circuit Office 01303 270190
Hours: Mon, Tue, Thurs, Fri 9.30 -1.30. Closed Wednesdays
1 Revd Kevin Taylor will usually work Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and
EITHER Friday or Sunday each week.
This is a publication of the South Kent Methodist Circuit, including the United
Reformed/Methodist Church meeting in Ashford & the Anglican/Methodist Church
meeting at Hamstreet and Hythe. Items for publication will be gratefully received,
but may be edited if necessary or omitted if deemed inappropriate. No anonymous
articles will be printed. The views contained in this magazine are not necessarily
the views of the editorial committee.
DEADLINE for articles (450 words max) and dates of events
for August/September issue: 8 July 2016
Lisa Cooper
9 Nairne Close,Shadoxhurst
Ashford TN26 1NA
Tel: 01233 732178
[email protected]
PLEASE CLEARLY MARK ALL ITEMS ‘MAGAZINE’
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From the Manse
I
t is good to have regular opportunities to visit John Wesley
School in Singleton for morning assembly, as some colleagues also do. In recent
months banners have been gradually appearing on the wall at the back of the school
hall beneath the gallery. These provide lively illustrations of values that the school
promotes. Jackie Wills, a member at Charing Methodist Church is making the banners
as part of her role at the school. A Trinity banner over the hall exit is accompanied
by others illustrating values the school seeks to promote such as love, patience,
compassion, forgiveness and persistence. As Jackie continues her work more virtues
are likely to appear.
The presence of the Trinity among a set representing values and virtues is
thought-provoking. Perhaps, as some theologians claim, God’s life in Trinity is in
some way a model for human society. Much has been written on this.
I find it easier to focus on the values themselves, and compassion is the one
that stood out for me, as I stood in John Wesley School hall recently. The banner
shows the Good Shepherd on a winding path with crook in one hand and rescued
lamb in the other. It might also be taken to hint at Matthew 9:36 where its says of
Jesus that, ‘When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they
were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.’
Meditating on this reminded me of Albert Schweitzer and his philosophy of
reverence for life. Dr. Schweitzer put compassion and concern for all creatures at the
heart of the path of service that he followed. He believed that there is a boundless
ethic. This is to show compassion for all beings regardless of race, religion, or species.
Albert Schweitzer said, “Compassion, in which all ethics must take root, can only
attain its full breadth if it embraces all living creatures and does not limit itself to
[hu]mankind.”
If we pay attention to living the Christian virtues, we have found an effective way
to learn what it means to participate in the life of God, which leads back to the Trinity.
Well done, Jackie for bringing the virtues alive through your banner-making art!
Paul Dean
Elham Methodist Church
Prayer Meeting
First Thursday of each month at 7.30pm
Everyone welcome!
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Candidating for ordained Presbyteral Ministry–update
A
s many of you will know I have been Candidating for ordained ministry over the
last year; I have been through the circuit and district selection process and in
March I went to Derby for the candidate’s selection committee. This involved spending
24 hours along with 19 other candidates being asked probing questions as well as
being observed in group work. The whole process was daunting, challenging as
well as encouraging, as the candidates bonded as we went through the process.
During the process I have been aware of a building tide of prayer and support
keeping me going when things have seemed intimidating and I have felt out of
control. On March 23rd I received the results of the selection process, unfortunately
I was not successful, which came as a huge blow not only to me but Pam and others
who I have told. There have been lots of questions and confusion associated with
the decision, but I’m sure God’s hand is in the situation and he is saying ‘not yet’.
I still believe that God is calling me to ordained Presbyteral ministry, but not
right now, as there are things I have to explore before I re-candidate in two years’
time.
Pam and I thank you all for your prayers and support and hope that you will
continue to keep us in your thoughts as we continue exploring what God has in
store for us in Ministry.
Ian and Pam Couchman
Unexpected but Relevant
M
y grandfather, a Cadbury employee, had the opportunity which he took, to
provide my uncle and me with ‘debentures’ or Preference shares in that firm.
Each year we received a small but thought-provoking payment. We had a share in
the company. Eventually, Schweppes took over and, despite my uncle’s protests, we
had no alternative, by company law, but to surrender our debentures. We then had
no share in the company.
Behind all this are two important questions about commercial companies. The
first is for whom do they exist, owners, management, shareholders or workers or,
conceivably, all four? The second is do they exist to create value or wealth?
The title above refers to a book by a noted economist, Will Hutton. It is called
How Good We Can Be: Ending the Mercenary Society and Building a Great Country –
surely not the kind of title we would expect from an economist but highly relevant
to things happening today in British commercial life.
Suppose some rich man buys a controlling share in a company which, for its
continuity, needs not only to trade competitively but also to invest in new ideas. It
will, too, need to find money not only to pay shareholders and employees but, also,
to put aside significant amounts both to sustain a pension fund and pay due tax.
Suppose, next that the controlling shareholder arranges to be paid so much money
that all the other commitments are jeopardised. While he might become even richer,
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the future of all other stakeholders is put at risk and, indeed, the company might
cease to exist.
It comes back to the second earlier question, namely, do companies exist to
create value or wealth? Value includes an awareness of social responsibility, the
care of employees and, beyond this, contributions to the wider social good.
Since I went to school in Bournville, had relatives employed by Cadburys and
saw at first hand its care for not only its employees but well beyond these, I realise
I am recalling a vanished world where Quaker values informed how to run a highly
successful business.
Geoff Chapman
Don’t miss the Sunrise
T
he rain had been drumming on the conservatory roof all night when the alarm
went off at 6am on Easter Sunday. My Birthday! Sadly only 23 hours of it as we
had put the clocks forward when we went to bed the night before. The clock said 6
but my brain said 5am as I asked my wife whether we would make the short trip to
Wye Downs for the Sunrise (Sonrise?) service this year.
Dressed in our waterproof jackets, (the decision not to bother with waterproof
trousers was to prove something of a mistake), we drove to the Downs feeling
optimistic that the rain had stopped, although it was still very chilly. Parking the car,
I noticed the Salvation Army had, appropriately, parked their Emergency Response
vehicle in the lay-by and they were dispensing hot drinks.
As we walked through the gate and down to where a few other hardy souls
had gathered, a heavy shower of rain was visible in the distance, I hoped it would
pass us by; no such luck, the service had barely begun when the rain started, slanting
across the hillside. It’s not easy holding an umbrella into the wind with one hand
and trying to stop the hymn sheet getting too soggy with the other.
The Pastor from Station Road Baptist Church did well to make himself heard
over the gale blowing, but I think a smile came to every face there as we sang the
line, ‘when I look down from lofty mountain grandeur, and hear the brook, and feel
the gentle breeze’.
Many years ago, sitting in the coffee bar at Centrepiece one Saturday morning,
Sister Sue Roberts asked if I was going to the Sunrise service the following day. I
thought for a minute, and, knowing that I should say yes; hedged, and told her I
would if my bike started, knowing that after a winter’s layoff my trusty steed was
unlikely to spark into life. My lie in would be safe. However, the motorcycle did
perform and I’ve been going to Wye Downs on Easter Sunday every year since.
So next year, make the trip to a Sunrise service in your part of the circuit, it’s a
great way to celebrate the resurrection of Christ with Christians of other denominations. You probably won’t see the sunrise, you might not see the sun at all, but the
trip will be worth it.
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Circuit Prayers
For prayers in this newsletter I am offering the diaconal evening prayers. They are
more of the nature of a reflection on the day just gone, this is something that I find
helpful to pray through. The prayers give perspective to the day, as you look at the
day in the light of God’s love. I am pretty sure that the Diaconal prayers take their
inspiration from Ignatian Spirituality where there is also a review of the day called
‘The Examen’ both are very similar. It is not a test, but I find it to be an encouraging
prayer which guides me. The two ways of reviewing the day are laid out here.
Diaconal Evening Prayers
Take a few minutes of prayer time at the end of the day to discover where
God has been present in the details, moods and feelings of the day.
Thanksgiving
Linger on the moments and events you have enjoyed and say thank you.
Reflection
Review the day quietly.
Sense your moods and feelings.
What stands out for you?
Where did they come from?
Where did they lead you?
Discover the underlying attitudes, remembering that your actions and
choices flow from these attitudes.
Is there something in your life that God is asking you to look at?
Forgiveness
Look at the times you have not responded to God during the day and
ask God’s forgiveness, knowing that it is always given.
And remember to thank God for those times when you have responded
to God.
Looking forward
Take time to look forward and ask for God’s guidance and a deepening
trust in God’s goodness as you continue to serve.”
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The Examen – www.ignatianspirituality.com
The Examen is a method of reviewing the day in the presence of God. It’s actually
an attitude more than a method, a time set aside for thankful reflection on where
God is in your everyday life. It has five steps, which most people more or less take in
order, it usually takes 15-20 minutes per day.
1 I ask God for light
I want to look at my day with God’s eyes, not merely my own.
2 Give thanks
The day I have just lived is a gift from God. Be grateful for it.
3 Review the day
I carefully look back on the day just completed, being guided by the Holy Spirit.
4 Face your shortcomings
I face up to what is wrong—in my life and in me.
5 Look forward to the day to come
I ask where I need God in the day to come.
Methodist Connexional Funds
P
lease can churches that have not sent their Connexional Funds in to me, do so
by July. Also I am very happy to receive any Mission in Britain box money and
would appreciate it in cheque form made out to “Methodist Connexional Fund”,
also by July as this helps me to do the accounts in August. Thank you.
Pauline Harden
Easter Offering
A big thank you to everyone who gave gifts this year. At the time of going to press
the total for the circuit stands at £1026.77.
Thank you all.
Chris Tutton MWiB Treasurer.
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Circuit News
W
Appledore
Brenda Fazzani
e have changed our mid-week communion from the Tuesday after the second
Sunday to the fourth Wednesday in every month. The fourth Wednesday will
be literally the 4th Wednesday and not necessarily the Wednesday after the 4th
Sunday. It will be at 12 noon. Visitors are always welcome.
T
Charing
Elizabeth Ellen
he service on Mothering Sunday was taken by Mrs Jackie Wills and the young
people. They read lessons, took part in a sketch and sang songs appropriate to
the occasion. As well as mothers, there were grandmothers, daughters, sons and
fathers in the congregation and everyone was given a pot plant.
On Good Friday our service was led by Mrs Jean Murray with members of the
congregation taking part. We were pleased to have visitors from Cade Road, Ashford
and Aldington with us. Afterwards we enjoyed coffee and hot cross buns and an
opportunity to speak to friends. Easter Sunday was of course the climax of the week
and some of our members went to the sunrise Service on Wye Downs, serving
breakfast of cereal, bacon rolls, tea and toast back at the church afterwards.
On April 24th we joined in a united St George’s Day Parade Service in the Parish
Hall. The guides, brownies, cubs and scouts were all there and carried their flags to
the front. The service was led by Rev. Richard Webb and our music group provided
the music for the hymns. The theme was ‘Service’ and with the help of the young
people Richard spoke of the many people who serve our community. There were
a good many parents there so it was nice to see the hall full.
On 8th May we had a special united service for Christian Aid week and we hope
our coffee morning planned for 21st May will raise some funds for Christian Aid.
W
Dymchurch
Diana Blackwell
e had a good number present for our Refugee Lunch on Good Friday. As always
we were joined by friends from the Parish Church and together we enjoyed
fellowship over a delicious bowl of soup made by Pam.
A united Service in the Chapel followed and then worship continued in the
Parish Church. £183 was raised for Christian Aid.
On Easter Sunday Kevin led our worship. This Service included the Baptism,
Confirmation and Reception into Membership of Ann and Barry Martin. Ann and
Barry have been attending worship regularly with us and it was lovely to welcome
them into Membership on such a special day. They had provided a cake for the
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occasion and a time of friendship and fellowship continued after the Service. Welcome
Ann and Barry.
Joy Brumwell led the Easter Offering Service on Sunday afternoon of 24th April.
As always it was arranged by Methodist Women in Britain for the World Mission Fund.
This year it was entitled “Child, get up!” It was good to see the Chapel so full with
approximately fifty people. Many stayed for a chat and refreshments which concluded
an excellent afternoon.
The next day the redecoration of our hall started. As often with these things it’s
proving to be a larger job than anticipated but we look forward to its completion.
Carys was our preacher on 1st May and she followed the Service with a “Getting
to know you” session – in her words a meeting that wasn’t a meeting! We are looking
forward to future developments with Carys as she tries to help us with our needs and
aspirations within the Church here.
N
Elham at Easter
othing much changes! Easter 2016 followed the time honoured practices of
Easter at Elham Methodist church. Pre-Easter the Circuit Staff led the Lent Course
at Rhodes Minnis, very different this year studying Celtic saints. The usual Holy Week
service, again at Rhodes Minnis, was led by Kevin. On Good Friday the Walk of
Witness around the village was led by Derek, assisted this year by Rev Jane Weeks,
the new Vicar of Elham. A first for Elham, a lady Vicar, looking quite unlike a priest,
with long auburn hair and boots. She also rides a powerful motorbike! However,
she has made a hit with most of us. As usual we ended up at St Marys Hall for coffee
and hot cross buns. In previous years children of the Village Sunday School had
exhibited craft work which they had been doing while we were walking, but now
there are very few children, and there were none on this day.
Our Sunday service was ably led by Robin Blount.
At our previous Church Council, it had been agreed to try a monthly prayer
meeting to be held on the first Thursday of each month at 7.30pm. The first was quite
well attended and included a couple of Anglicans. Further meetings have seen
fluctuating attendances, but it seems to be an experiment well worth continuing
with. We have also started a prayer request box, where we can put in a slip of paper
asking for people to be remembered in prayer.
Mollie has not yet felt able to get back to church after her eye problems, but
she keeps in touch.
For some time the hard of hearing amongst us have been complaining that
the sound system was becoming less effective, so it was agreed to have it upgraded.
This has been done and we are pleased with the improvement.
We are very grateful to the Circuit staff and the band of Local Preachers who
lead our worship each week.
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W
Folkestone
Marjorie Williams
e give thanks to God for the beauty we have here - our church was blessed
with spring flowers for our Easter services. We thank all those who led our
services during the Easter season. We now look forward to warmer weather and
maybe holidays for some people.
Our “Supper Evenings” on the second Wednesday of each month have now
changed their format. We now have light refeshments following the time spent
listening to speakers, etc. Therefore in future it will be called the “Wednesday
Fellowship”. To book a place for the refreshments please call Eileen Morgan (her
details are in the Circuit Handbook).
We continue to pray for those who have lost loved ones recently and those
who are ill, and give thanks to all who lead our services, those who play for our
hymns, keep our premises clean, arrange flowers etc. These people often get
forgotten amidst our busy lives.
We send our Christian love to all our friends around the circuit.
T
Grace Court
Val Redding
he funeral of Tom Webb, a long term resident of Grace Court, was held on April
12th. It was attended by friends and colleagues from his long and courageous life.
Tom was a very special person and he has left a legacy of special memories.
Two residents, Elsie and Cynthia, have recently moved into local care homes to
receive the extra support that they now need. New residents are currently settling
into the vacant flats.
Live at Home Scheme – Sasha Williams, the scheme administrator, is currently
seeking volunteers to train as befrienders, visiting people in their own homes.
Methodist Homes (MHA) Sunday – Sunday 12th June - your prayerful support
would be appreciated for this opportunity to reflect upon and celebrate the work of
MHA in its aim to continue to ‘Build Communities that Care’. (Details can be found in
current edition of Heart & Soul magazine, Issue 36.)
Church of the Good Shepherd, Hamstreet
T
Bill Miller
he congregation was shocked by the news of Ian Kirkland’s accident and his
subsequent illness which led to heart surgery. It was good to see him back in
church and we hope his treatment progresses and his recovery continues.
Our church has drawn up plans for a series of events for the remainder of this
year. These include cream teas in the rectory garden in June, a coffee, cakes and
books morning in September, a Murder Mystery play in November and in the run
up to the festive season in December a Christmas Tree festival and a Christmas
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Concert.
In May instead of the normal Messy Church there will be a celebration of the
Queen’s 90th birthday which we hope will attract as large a congregation from the
village and further afield as these events normally do.
G
Headcorn
ood Friday saw the regular procession of witness, as we walked the length of
our High Street. Starting from the Catholic Church we walked past the shops,
stopping next to Sainsbury’s and at the Lych Gate to offer prayers, before sharing in
coffee and hot cross buns in the Parish Church. On Easter Day, we were out again
on the High Street, to sing hymns of celebration.
On Easter Monday 1956, Ron and Betty Haggerty were married at Headcorn
Methodist Church. So it was a delight on the Sunday after Easter to mark their
Diamond Anniversary. Family and friends from the village joined the regular
congregation in a service of celebration led by Judy Muxlow, when we gave thanks
for their years together as well as their work in the church. Then, of course, it was
time to enjoy a slice of cake as we inspected the card from the Queen.
St. Michael’s Methodist Anglican Church, Hythe
I
Dudley Shipton
n the hymn of adoration, ‘King of Glory, King of Peace’, written by George Herbert
(1593 – 1633), we are reminded as we worship God in praise and adoration, ‘Seven
whole days, not one in seven, I will praise thee’.
The weekly pattern of our lives divides up our daily waking lives from Sunday
through to Saturday. Seven different days bringing a wholeness to each week.
So too our Sunday worship has a pattern to it. The Christian Festivals give a
purpose to our worship throughout the year. In the Church’s Year we have recently
celebrated Rogation, Ascension, Pentecost. Trinity and Aldersgate Sundays and
looking ahead we have designated Sundays for Methodist Homes, Refugees, The
Conference, Action for Children, Society Sunday, Sea Sunday and Rural Mission.
Added to this there are days to remember Saints and Social Reformers. Our worship
to the glory of God is a vital part of our faith and commitment to Jesus Christ and
his influence upon our lives.
We also have the challenge of playing our part in the community. The Hythe
Festival takes place from Friday 1 July until Sunday 10 July with a full programme
of activities. Our contribution at St. Michael’s will be a Coffee Morning on Saturday
2 July between 10.30 and noon. On Sunday 3 July at the Morning Service we will
celebrate the heritage of Hythe. The following Sunday 10 July there will be no Service
at St. Michael’s as all are invited to attend St. Leonard’s Parish Church at 11a.m. for
the Civic Service. The Festival draws to a close at 6.30p.m. with the ‘Raise the Roof’
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Service with the Medway Towns Band.
A month later, on Saturday 6 August, St. Michael’s will be contributing to the
Circuit Safari when the Church will be open from 10a.m. to 1p.m. with refreshments
available.
To carry out God’s mission it is essential that we not only worship God but as
the whole Church and as individuals we involve ourselves in the community outside
its walls. I leave you to find the appropriate line from a hymn that expresses that
desire.
W
UCA Kennington
Stewart French
e would ask for your thoughts and prayers for Bill Pearson who has been in
hospital for a while (at the time of writing this), and also for his family. We are
continuing to seek God’s guidance for the church, both in terms of redevelopment
of the building, and in reaching our community, and are hoping to be part of the
Winter Night Shelter project again should it recommence later this year.
Two of our number have spent time in America recently, meeting with old friends
and sharing in ministry in different places, and it was good to hear of what God is
doing within the wider church - sometimes we can be guilty of thinking that the
wider church means either our town or our circuit when God’s church is worldwide.
At the time of writing three of our number are preparing to go to Zimbabwe
with SMILE International, by the time the magazine is distributed they will be back,
and hopefully will have something to share in future magazines.
T
Lydd
Pauline Pogson
he members of the Church are encouraged to see people attending our Sunday
services on a Sunday morning, and some on a regular basis.
A Report was given at our local Annual Town Council Meeting in April, which
allowed us to show the work which has been carried out by the Lydd Methodist
Church. This enabled us to declare the work of God and the ministry of the church
to the community. It was also a good opportunity for Deacon Carys Woodley to see
and meet some of the town’s Councillors.
At present we are looking forward to Christian Aid week as the churches in
Lydd work together in producing a Lunch at the Methodist Church, a raffle run by
All Saint’s Parish Church and White Elephant Stall by St Martin’s R.C Church. This
gives us an opportunity to invite others to enjoy the friendly atmosphere.
The Parent and Toddler Group ‘Little Chicks’ is a joy, and wonderful to see the
little ones growing in confidence and parents making friends and sharing problems.
At the moment we are trying our hand at science projects, either through nature,
learning about shapes, rectangle, or square, and what sinks or floats.
At present the Church is helping towards the Town’s celebrations of a street
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party in June for the Queen’s 90th Birthday. We must pray for a sunny day.
Lyminge
R
etreat Weekend: The ecumenical fellowship in Lyminge enjoyed our annual
retreat this year at Mockett’s farm on the Isle of Sheppey. The accommodation
was one of the best we have experienced in the many years we have been on retreat.
Although we were self-catering this added to the fellowship and allowed us to support
the local pub for two of our main meals.
The weekend was entitled “Connecting to God through Wind in the Willows”
and was capably led by Deacon Carys Woodley. Friday evening saw us create
individual collages of where we are in our journey with God. This progressed to
examining God’s gifts through the five senses e.g. What colour is love?; what does
it look like, taste, smell and feel like?
We finished the weekend by joining a family communion service at Minster
Abbey. This weekend was a challenge to the senses in many ways and allowed us
to further explore our relationship with God.
Pam & Ian Couchman
A few days before Easter, Ian received the devastating news that he had not been
accepted for the Methodist ministry at this time, (see his report on page 4). Yet,
following that disappointment, he was given the strength to bring us the joy of
Resurrection and an amazing message of hope, a testimony which was much
appreciated.
About a hundred people, including hall users, contractors and local dignitaries,
joined us to celebrate the completion of the renovation work at the Tayne Centre.
This has been an enormous undertaking for our small fellowship over the past six
years, the brunt of which has been borne by the small committee, to whom we are
extremely grateful, especially Pam and Ian with all that has been going on in their
lives. Our sincere thanks to everyone for their help and support, both within
Methodism and the wider community!
It was also an opportunity to unveil a beautiful tapestry depicting Anglo-Saxon
life, based on the recent digs which have taken place in the village over many years.
The work was done by some of the ladies involved in washing the various finds,
overseen by a local artist and approved by Reading University.
We continue to pray for all across the circuit who are undergoing treatments,
or suffering bereavement and other difficulties. May the Holy Spirit bring healing
and joy to all!
Drinking beer is easy. Trashing your hotel room is easy. But being a Christian,
that's a tough call. That's rebellion. – Alice Cooper
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W
New Romney
June Heath
e hold weekly Saturday coffee mornings, from March to second Saturday in
December, from 9.45-12 noon. As well as tea, coffee and squash, we sell toasted
teacakes, hot bacon rolls, hot buttered toast etc. We also have stallholders selling a
range of goods including cakes, savouries, pastries, plants, vegetables, crafts and
greeting cards. All are welcome.
Our coffee morning will be on during the day of the Circuit Safari on August
6th, so we hope to see some friends from around the circuit.
O
Rhodes Minnis
Chris Tutton
ur Easter morning worship was led by Ian Couchman. For more years than I care
to remember we have usually had a shared Easter Service with the folk from
Elham, due to shortages of preachers. However, this year each congregation was
able to have a ‘home fixture’.
On the Sunday after Easter we had been expecting to have a ‘local arrangements
service’ and were very pleased to be able to welcome Colin Hancox to lead some of
our service and to give his first sermon for some years. Welcome back Colin and may
God Bless you as you continue in your preaching role.
On Sunday 1st May we celebrated our 128th anniversary. There was in fact
another chapel elsewhere in the village from the early to mid 1800s, then a gap
before the current building was erected in 1888 by the Bible Christians. The service
was conducted by Deacon Carys Woodley and afterwards we went to the village hall
for an anniversary tea.
Recently several of our members have been struggling with health issues.
Ronnie is recovering from her accident and it was great to see Ian with us for the
anniversary service, the first time he had been able to attend for some time.
We were all very sad to hear of the death of Francis Carey, Vicky’s father, a
wonderful Romney Marsh gentleman through and through.
F
Ruckinge
Pauline Harden
our of our members attended the Easter Offering service at Dymchurch and
enjoyed the worship and a good sing with a larger congregation. We appreciate
the ministers and local preachers leading our worship when we are only a small group.
Chit-Chat, our fellowship group, met in April when Kate Anson from Folkestone
advised us on how to care for our feet. It may be too late for some of our foot
problems but many of the suggestions were understood and hopefully will be
carried out. In May, Eileen Morgan (accompanied by husband Pete) led us in some
“gentle” Keep Fit. Walking sticks were laid aside, some sat, some remained standing
but we all had a go and encouraged by Eileen’s enthusiasm we all felt better for our
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activity. Eileen encouraged us all to keep moving and using all our muscles every
day. We thank both Kate and Eileen (and Pete too!) for giving up their time to be
with us. In June we are changing our meeting afternoons to Wednesdays so we will
meet on Wednesday, 1st June when Margaret Hanlon of Hamstreet will tell us
about the work of the Canterbury Oast Trust.
O
St Andrew’s, Cheriton
Christine Slater
n Sunday 20th March between 3:00pm and 4:30pm St Andrew’s hosted another
Fun Afternoon. Some 75 adults and 25 younger people joined in the fun of the
afternoon. About one third were our friends from the Hosanna Nepalese Church
which added to the enjoyment as Bejoy, one of their elders, gave simultaneous
translation to the words of the CBC puppets and Rev. Sam Funnell. We were treated
to wonderfully funny puppets, including a singing cow, Welsh sheep, pig, duck and
others. We all had a great sing along, action songs and magic all with a Christian
message as well as prayers and thought provoking talks. Refreshments of biscuits,
fruit, chocolates, teas, coffees and juices were served part way through the afternoon’s
entertainments. Bejoy told the whole congregation, in English and Nepalese, about
a young man from their congregation, Ajay Limbu, who has just returned from
2 months intensive Bible Study training in India. He will now be leading and training
the young peoples of his Church. We all congratulated him and Sam led a prayer
asking that he be successful in his new commitment to God.
Easter got off to a very moving and peaceful start when on Maundy Thursday
at 7pm Rev Sam Funnell led a short act of Holy Communion. Friends from Folkestone
Sandgate Road joined us as did people from other Churches in the Folkestone area
who do not have evening services. At 8am on Easter Sunday Sam again led worship
with Holy Communion. After this service Darron, with the help of Susie and Lynn,
produced breakfast for approximately 20 people.
On the morning of 10th April we received two new members, Carol and Tim and
in the evening Rev Derek Hancock led a Taize style service. This was well attended
and most of those present said they would welcome more. It was a very calm and
spiritual evening. Calm was not the word to be used for the service on 1st May when
James was baptised but it was a noisy and joyous event which Sam handled with her
normal poise and aplomb.
During June and July our Worship Leaders; Lynn, Norman and Christine will be
leading worship as will Ruth with The Friday Fellowship Group.
A
Shadoxhurst
Lisa Cooper
t our recent church council we made some very positive decisions. Having been
introduced to Café Church by Carys, we felt this was a good alternative to the
more traditional ‘family service’ we have once a month, and decided that we would
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like to have Café Church on a monthly basis. This is not just because we like cake!
The point was made that initially some of us had felt it was just about the café style
layout, but that more importantly it was actually about engaging people in a new
way in worship. Sitting round tables in small groups is a more pleasant environment
than sitting in rows - and having activities to do and things to discuss in these small
groups means people can be more involved, rather than just listening to the leader
and joining in the hymns. We also feel that this less formal style of worship might
appeal to those outside of our fellowship who might be intimidated or not know
what to expect walking into a traditional service for the first time. We are praying
that the new housing developments in our village will be an opportunity to invite
new people to join us and we will also have a stall at the annual village fete and
dog show, to make our presence known and hand out flyers advertising that we are
open for the Circuit Safari (hope to see some of you visiting us!), in the hopes that
some of our ‘neighbours’ may also come in and see what we are like. We also hope
to redevelop links with the local parish church to find ways in which we can work
together and worship together.
On Good Friday we opened our church for refreshments after a short service
at the Parish Church. We served coffee, cake and hot cross buns and there was an
opportunity for chat. There was some reflective music along with indoor, outdoor
and ‘finger’ labyrinths and about 25 people in all came into our church, including
some who had never been before. Thanks to Janet & John for the use of their garden,
and to the members of the youth group for providing visual aids for people to think
of the stages of The Passion.
T
Tenterden
Christine Endersby
he Circuit Office was contacted by a lady who lives in Strood in Gloucestershire
who had found a Methodist Hymnal in amongst her mother’s possessions
following her death. The Hymnal had been presented to a Mrs. Joan Bennett on
the Stone Laying of the Wesleyan Methodist New Chapel on 14th August 1884. The
stone on the outside of the Church, though extremely worn now, still reads with the
name Mrs. Joan Bennett and the date. The Hymnal is in its original satin bound box
and is in almost perfect condition. This lady had no idea how her mother had come
by the book as they had no connections to Tenterden. She felt though that we might
like it returned to us and we have confirmed to her that we would. On reflection I
remembered that Muriel Newman, (who had been a long standing member of our
Church, but who had passed away about 5 years ago) had mentioned to me that she
had a friend in Tenterden who did not attend our Church but whose grandmother
had laid the original stone. I managed to track down this person and rang her. She
was extremely interested in the Hymnal and said she had attended the Methodist
Church with her parents, and her grandparents when she was a young girl. She only
moved to the Parish Church when she married. We are now awaiting the arrival of
the Hymnal. I wonder how it came to be in Gloucestershire, and what stories it
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could tell of the intervening years.
On 25th June we will having a concert in our Church given by the Invicta Wind
Orchestra, conducted by Jeremy Cooper. We have had several of these concerts in
past years and they have proved very successful. The concert starts at 7.30 p.m. and
refreshments will be served during the interval. The members of the orchestra come
from all over the South of England and join together for the day to rehearse. The
Church is open all day for them to rehearse and it is lovely to see the doors flung wide
open and the music coming out into the street. Passers by often stop and ask what
is going on. If you are able to come along please do. It is an extremely entertaining
evening.
Francis Harry Carey
O
n 7th April my beloved father died suddenly at home. Although 90 years of age
he was fully compos mentis and always forward thinking, especially where
church matters were concerned. Indeed only a short time earlier he had returned
from New Romney Church Council meeting where he had discussed with other
members the possibility of a Harvest Lunch, and was instrumental in changing how
vestry prayers were conducted. He was always very keen for New Romney, Lydd
and Dymchurch to combine for occasional ‘Marsh’ services.
His love of his maker, of New Romney Methodist Church, Thursday Meeting
Point and all those he came into contact with was clear. On a personal level he was
a wonderful caring husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather – and will
be greatly missed.
I, with my family, would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Rev. Alan Hewitt and
Rev. Kevin Taylor for conducting his committal and thanksgiving services, and for all
the many tributes paid to my father.
Vicky Allard
MWiB News
I
t was lovely to see a packed church at Dymchurch for the Dedication of the Easter
Offering on 24th April. Thank you to Joy Brumwell for leading this service and to
all those who took part.
On Saturday 11th June there will be a Strawberry Tea at Folkestone Methodist
Church from 2-4pm. There will also be various stalls selling cards, cakes, preserves
etc and all proceeds will go to this year’s charity, ‘Dalit Solidarity’. All are welcome,
please come and support us.
Eileen Morgan
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News from Carys
I
am enjoying working in my new areas, joining in the different activities that
happen in the places and starting to explore wider. At Dymchurch I have been
along to the Meeting Point, knitters group and also had a ‘getting to know you’
meeting with the church people. This gave me the opportunity to ask about
peoples’ interests, to listen to a little of their stories. At the knitting group there has
been much encouragement and laughter over my knitting - I am not able, however,
to knit and listen and I am there to listen. It means that they have knitted whole
blankets while I have knitted about 12 lines.
At New Romney I have been enjoying going to their Meeting Point and also
their Saturday coffee mornings where very nice bacon butties are made. At New
Romney we have had the first of the ‘Past, Present and Future’ meetings, where we
had a lovely time of sharing together stories of the past and giving thanks. The past
shapes our future, so as we were talking we found ourselves starting to think of
what we do now and what we might do.
In Lydd I was also shown around the town by Pauline Pogson, this was helpful
to get the geography of the place in my mind and Pauline also introduced me to
relevant people. Later when they were open I have been back to the library, museum and the monthly market. I have been also to the toddler group that is in the
church hall and also then to the yoga group (I was not so good at the stretching,
but loved the silence and found a deep place of prayer.) I feel that these two things
will be helpful as I met some of the mums from the toddlers again at the yoga.
Also last week I have been to Convocation, which is a conference that all
Methodist Deacons have to go to. Convocation as always was wonderful, moving,
encouraging and inspiring. The first service we had there was of ‘Remembrance and
Praise’ - in this service we remembered the Deacons who had died during the year.
So we remembered Sue Hibberd, but also a Deacon who had been in my previous
district. I had the privilege of welcoming that family, spending time with them and
then sitting with them during the special service of remembrance. I have a booklet
of the obituaries from this service, which includes Sue, if anyone would like to
borrow it.
At the end of Convocation there was also the service that sends us out and we
are able to renew our ordination promises with an Act of Rededication, this is also a
moving moment for Convocation. It was lovely to stand with my friends and make
the promises, and then to feel ready for the year ahead.
Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and
provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those that hear
you. – Ephesians 4:29
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SOUTH KENT CIRCUIT
NEEDS YOU!
To help with the important job of
CIRCUIT TREASURER!
Enjoy working with numbers?
Like to be part of a good team?
Then speak to Sam or Lisa
who’ll be happy to tell you more!
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Annual Meeting
You are warmly invited to attend
the Rainbow Centre Annual
Meeting
Monday 6 June 2016 at 7pm, The Grand,
The Leas, Folkestone
Please come and join us to learn all about how we are
developing our services as we support people through
crisis and invest in young lives.
Guest speaker: Frank Flegg
Frank Flegg works for Stepping Stones, an organisation serving
homeless people across the East Midlands region.
Frank studied at Nottingham University and the University of
Cambridge before working as a secondary school science teacher in
inner city Nottingham. Since 2007 Frank has worked full time in the
property business.
After his baptism in 2012, Frank committed to using his property
expertise to serve God by housing the homeless. Frank and his
colleague Karina now spend their time supporting partner projects
in the region whilst building national partnerships to better serve
the homeless and disadvantaged across the UK.
Telephone: (01303) 850733 Website: www.rainbow-centre.org
Email: [email protected] 69 Sandgate Road,
Folkestone CT20 2AF
Registered charity number 1096570
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South Kent Circuit Safari
Saturday 6th August
The following Churches will be open and offering a warm
welcome to visitors. Please try to visit some churches and
meet friends, some old and some new in our circuit family
Appledore Methodist Church TN26 2AE
Open 10am – 1pm
Charing Methodist Church TN27 0JA
Open 10am – 3pm with refreshments and lunches
Folkestone Methodist Church CT20 2DA
Open 10am – 3pm with refreshments
Hythe (St Michael’s Methodist-Anglican) CT21 5BG
Open 10am – 1pm with refreshments
Shadoxhurst Methodist Church TN26 1LS
Open 10am – 3pm with refreshments and lunches
United Church Ashford, Cade Road TN23 6JE
Open 10am – 3pm with refreshments
John Wesley Primary School
Summer Fete
Saturday June 25th
11am - 3pm
Stalls, refreshments, BBQ – fun for all the family!
Please come along and support us! All welcome!
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On the First Day
On the first day, God created the dog and said, “Sit all day by the door of your house
and bark at anyone who comes in or walks past. For this, I will give you a life span of
twenty years.”
The dog said, “That’s a long time to be barking. How about only ten years and
I’ll give you back the other ten?” So God agreed.
On the second day, God created the monkey and said, “Entertain people, do
tricks, and make them laugh. For this, I’ll give you a twenty-year life span.” The
monkey said, “Monkey tricks for twenty years? That’s a pretty long time to perform.
How about I give you back ten like the dog did?” And God agreed.
On the third day, God created the cow and said, “You must go into the field
with the farmer all day long and suffer under the sun, have calves and give milk to
support the farmer’s family. For this, I will give you a life span of sixty years.”
The cow said, “That’s kind of a tough life you want me to live for sixty years.
How about twenty and I’ll give back the other forty?” And God agreed again.
On the fourth day, God created humans and said, “Eat, sleep, play, marry and
enjoy your life. For this, I’ll give you twenty years.” But the human said, “Only twenty
years? Could you possibly give me my twenty, the forty the cow gave back, the ten
the monkey gave back, and the ten the dog gave back; that makes eighty, okay?”
“Okay,” said God. “You asked for it.” So that is why for our first twenty years, we eat, sleep, play and enjoy ourselves.
For the next forty years, we slave in the sun to support our family. For the next ten
years, we do monkey tricks to entertain the grandchildren. And for the last ten
years, we sit on the front porch and bark at everyone.
Invicta Wind Orchestra
(conductor Jeremy Cooper)
Presents
“A tribute to the military on Armed Forces Day”
including familiar words to sing-along to
Tenterden Methodist Church
7.30pm 25th June
£6 Adults on the door (children free)
In aid of Parkinsons UK
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Dates for your Diary
Saturday 11th June - MWiB Strawberry Tea @ Folkestone 2-4pm
Tuesday 14th June – Circuit Finance meeting for church treasurers, UCA Cade Rd, 7.30pm
Saturday 25th June - John Wesley Primary School Summer Fete 11am - 3pm
Saturday 25th June – Tenterden 7.30pm – Concert by Invicta Wind Orchestra
Wednesday 13th July - Leaders of Worship & Preachers Meeting, Dymchurch, 7 for 7.30pm
Saturday 6th August – Circuit Safari – see posters for details of which churches you can visit [NB
New Romney also open 9.45-12noon, but not listed on poster]
Thursday, 8th September, afternoon, Folkestone -The Rev Dr Val Ogden is a serving mission
partner in Fiji. She is doing a tour of the UK speaking about her work. We are lucky to be hosting her,
please put this date in your diaries.
Wed 21st September at Dymchurch, Circuit Meeting 7 for 7.30pm
Thurs 22nd September Leaders of Worship & Preachers Meeting, UCA Kennington, 7 for 7.30pm
Music
Night
When?
Saturday 24th September 2016 6.30pm start
Where?
United Church Kennington. Next to the Rose
Inn, Faversham Road, Kennington
Why?
To raise money for Christian Aid, to enjoy the
talents of others and to have a good time
Please contact Stewart French ([email protected])
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Headcorn
A28
M2
0
A2
0
Charing
51
A274
6 miles
10 kilometres
59
A2
8
A2
Wye
Ashford
10
Lydd
New Romney
Dymchurch
Ruckinge
Hamstreet
9
Kennington
Cade Rd
John Wesley
School
Shadoxhurst
A2
Tenterden
Appledore
Scale
South Kent Methodist Circuit
0
0
B2068
Rhodes
Minnis
11
Elham
12
St Andrews 13
Lyminge
11a
Hythe
English
Channel
A20
Grace
Court
Folkestone