201102 imc mag

February 2011 Price 50pThe magazine of the family of Independent Methodist ChurchesIt is just over twelve months since Haiti, Haiti continue to live in increasingly squalidthe most impoverished country in the tents with little hope of moving towestern hemisphere, was reduced to A country without hope? transitional shelters. Less than 30,000rubble by a major earthquake. It was an of those displaced have foundevent which triggered many churches Initially the focus was on rescuing those permanent homes. There is no strategicand individuals from across the who were trapped in the collapsed plan for shelter, land disputes areConnexion to make donations in buildings. Many expert rescue teams from widespread, and tons of rubble needssupport of the relief work. around the world arrived rapidly in the clearing, much of which is thought to country. However, the greatest urgency contain human remains.\" It added thatOn the 12th January 2010, a quake of was to provide temporary shelters, food, \"until the government frees up the landmagnitude 7.0 with its epicentre just water and medical care for the survivors. needed, we are forced to spendsixteen miles west of Haiti’s capital With the infrastructure so badly damaged donations on replacing tents and otherPort-au-Prince resulted in mass death it proved impossible for the Haitian piecemeal measures designed to helpand destruction. It is estimated that authorities assisted by USA agencies toabout 230,000 people died, a further receive all the incoming relief supplies. people get by in overcrowded camps.\"300,000 injured and over one million Most aid initially arrived through the onepeople made homeless. An estimated operational airport as nearly all port There are two main obstacles prevent-quarter of a million homes and 30,000 facilities had been destroyed. This became ing the re-construction of Haiti, thecommercial premises either collapsed or a bottleneck with some planes being estimated 20 million cubic metres ofwere severely damaged. diverted elsewhere while those supplies rubble which requires clearing and the which did arrive suffered delays in resolution of land ownership rights.The destruction resulted in the loss of distribution. Unfortunately 28 of Haiti’s 29 govern-most government and public buildings. Haiti as a country required re-building and ment departments had their records totallyThese included the Presidential Palace, the the international community offered much destroyed in the earthquake, including allNational Assembly Building, Port-au- in financial aid, the European Union land registry records. Forged documents,Prince Cathedral and the country’s prison (US$474 million), Brazil (US$210 lost deeds and multiple claimants arewhich resulted in 4,000 criminals million), USA (US$110 million) and preventing international agencies fromescaping. The building housing the individual European governments offered commencing a building programme forUnited Nations Stabilisation Mission to significant amounts, the United Kingdom which they have the money andHaiti (MINUSTAH) also collapsed. (US$34 million) and France (US$14Amongst the many significant individuals million). equipmentkilled in the earthquake were the A tragic failure of leadershipArchbishop of Port-au-Prince, the leader Twelve months after the earthquake 87 Jane Moyo, the lead author of theof the opposition and the head of the per cent of the survivors are still living in ActionAid report, said: \"There is anUnited Nations Mission. squalid, dangerous tented camps. Many of overwhelming sense that Haiti is drifting. these camps are lawless areas controlled People are surviving but survival is notHaiti’s fragile infrastructure virtually by criminals and thugs where rape and enough; we also have to rebuild. There isceased to exist through the damage done violence against women are at epidemic no sense of urgency among the Haitianto power, telecommunication and levels. In a report issued by the charity leadership and there is little progress ontransport installations. Roads were ‘Action Aid’ in January 2011, it is reconstruction with hundreds of thousandsblocked either by broken surfaces or fallen claimed that \"In the capital Port-au-Prince, of people stuck in limbo. Haiti feelsrubble. A number of hospitals were between 1.3 and 1.7 million people rudderless, beset by adhocracy becausedestroyed along with fifty health-care there is no clear leadership. There was anfacilities and 1,300 schools. opportunity after the earthquake to make a real difference but it is slipping away.International Response Unless something is done about housing and jobs, Haiti will sink lower. A cityAppeals for humanitarian aid were made over-whelmed by thousands ofand the world responded. Donations encampments, run by gangs and landlordspoured into aid charities at record levels. is a real possibility and that is the way to aThe British Disaster Emergency Commi-ttee (DEC) announced six months after the failed state.\"earthquake that it had raised £101m andthat the money had funded emergency It is amazing that in the 21st century aassistance to 1.2m people. The DEC Chief situation like this can be allowed toExecutive, Brendan Gormley said at the happen. Where is the leadership andtime of the disaster: “In 35 years of guidance that Haiti so desperately needs?humanitarian work I have never seen such Hundreds of millions of dollars wasa challenge confronting survivors of a donated for emergency relief but this nownatural disaster and the DEC agencies needs to be matched by decisive actionwhich are trying to help them.” from the United Nations and influential governments in the area to provide the leadership necessary to rebuild Haiti.Page 2 : President's Diary Page 5 : Ministers' & Leaders' Conference Page 10 : E100 ChallengePage 3 : Overseas Missions Page 6 - 7 : Around the Churches Page 11 : Christian Aid AGMPage 4 : Ken's 20 years in Romania Page 8 : The Interview Page 12 : My Busy Day Connexion

President's Diary times with God’s people. Wednesday 24th November: It was a November homework in another room. The very early start to catch the 6.44am 2010 Ministry Committee completed a lot of train from Durham to King’s Cross. valuable work in its meeting and then There was the trace of some sleet as I Sunday 7th November: afterwards we went as a family for a travelled to Durham but in London the I got up early to set off for celebratory meal to mark Rachel’s sun was shining as I walked to the the journey to Herbert Street birthday before a brief visit to the Christian Aid meeting in Church, Loughborough. The cottage at High Legh to prepare for Westminster. From the moment I sun shone throughout the journey, the evening. Westy Church was entered the conference centre I wasthere was some gentle rain a couple holding its annual bonfire on the field made to feel welcome. A report on theof times so that there were at High Legh on Saturday night so it work of Christian Aid can be found onmagnificent rainbows, and the was nice to see some of the page eleven.glorious autumn colours made it a fellowship before we set off fordelight. Arriving at Herbert Street I Lamberhead Green Church. On the way to the conference centrewas welcomed by our former there had been lots of police officersConnexional General Secretary, Bill It was good to see members from in Whitehall and Westminster andGabb, and his wife Janet, it is one of most of the Wigan Circuit Churches throughout the day there had beenthe most isolated churches in our on Saturday evening as they gathered the sound of police helicoptersdenomination but has provided a for an alternative “Last Night of the overhead so it was no surprise at thenumber of people who have served us Proms”. Gill Brooks of Grappenhall end of the meeting to be advised towell over the years. Church did a wonderful job with the avoid those areas because “the music and Lilian Kearsley of students are revolting”. I walked back Loughborough chapel Hindley Church was tremendous as via Horse Guards Road and was the guest soloist. There was an amazed by the number of police vansI was impressed by a large cross on excellent meal afterwards thanks to full of officers there and on the Mallthe wall in the church which had a the hard work of members of behind Admiralty Arch.beautiful mosaic on it and it was good Lamberhead Green Church.to worship with this very friendly and Pemberton chapelwelcoming fellowship. After the Sunday 21st November: We visitedservice there was a leisurely lunch Mount Zion Church, Pemberton in I was pleased to be on the return trainwhere we were treated to a choice of the morning where a large and glad that I had a reserved seat,delicious homemade soups to start, a congregation had gathered and were having settled down for the journeychoice of lovely main courses and able to hear the children of the home I waited for it to set off.included in the desserts was Sunday School sing a special song. It Unfortunately the train was withdrawnhomemade apple pie made with was a blessing to see the young from service so I had to wait fortyhome-grown apples. Unfortunately I people using their gift of singing for minutes for a train and searchdid not stay for the Jewish Dance the Lord, and that they have a prayer desperately for a seat. By the time Isession which was to take place at list and include a time of intercessory got home the bad weather had4.15pm, but that may be a good thing prayer in the service. The fellowship arrived, I was met with a heavy snowbecause there were some threats that was very encouraging as we chatted storm.if I stayed cameras might be rolling. after the service over refreshments. Friday 10th December: I set off earlyThis would not have made suitable in the morning for a meeting at theviewing for those with a nervous For my family it was then a trip up the Resource Centre. At the start of thedisposition! As I journeyed home in road to Lamberhead Green where a journey the sun was rising, the winterthe autumn sunshine it was good to lovely lunch was provided for us. As sky was glorious, the sun shone onreflect on the blessings I had received we helped with the washing up we the snow covered fields creating awith this fellowship. had a visit from a policeman, in fact marvellous sight. However, as ISunday 14th November: In the five policemen in two police cars and journeyed further it first became dull,evening I preached at Horden a van, to investigate the alarm that then misty and foggy but by the time IChurch, this is another of the many had set off in the Resource Centre. got to Wigan there was no sign ofchurches where I have received great Unfortunately our children had gone snow. It was a meeting to considerencouragement and support over the investigating and had opened the updating the articles of Association foryears so it was a joy to share with door into the Resource Centre by the IM Association which were writtenthem. mistake setting off the alarm. Never over a hundred years ago,Saturday 20th November: We had an let it be said that the Southwick’s don’t considerable time and effort was putearly start to travel to the Resource try very hard to get people in to into this work. The AdministrationCentre, whilst I joined the Ministry church! Fortunately the police were Meeting started early at 6pm becauseCommittee in their meeting our very understanding and were there was so much business tochildren were busy doing their unconcerned about being called out. discuss, but it was discussed over food to mark the last meeting of the 2 Connexion We were able to go back to Norman year. Although I was late arriving and Rita Prescott’s home to see home it was possible to see how pictures from their wedding and to much the snow had thawed during the remember the lovely day that they day. had, before we went to Bethel, Newtown Church for the evening service. Once again there was a large congregation and this time we were blessed by the choir singing. The fellowship was so encouraging and by the time we had had some refreshments with them it was almost 8 o’clock when we set off home with more happy memories of blessed

I wish all our friends around getting my emails. If you require about two hours per being) this is where The Lordthe Connexion a very happy know of anyone who hasn't day on average. The business has placed us.and blessed new year. Thank been receiving them, please let is beginning to grow, but ouryou for your continuous Sue Hartley know. challenge at present is that we It’s great to have Marc andsupport for our missionaries Thank you. Happy New Year, simply cannot take a day off.” Claudine with us! Marc,and I trust you will endeavour love Jen Cochrane.” Claudine and I are progressingto remember them in your The Castro Family write: with the Berber language.prayers throughout the coming Jack and Clare write: “The transition for us has been (Philippe has had to drop outyear. Our Missionaries are “We are ever grateful for a long and difficult one at of the lessons due to hispleased to give you an update upholding us in your times. We also feel a bit workload). We are nowof their recent news. prayers. There is no doubt that progressing so well but are the prayers of the saints around isolated, living in a small town making mistakes! What IJennifer writes: the world have held up our and not having many friends. wanted to say: “On Sunday I“I was hoping to have my arms and helped us to push We are only attending church cooked couscous”. What Itraveler’s permit before forward this year. on Sundays and it has been said: “On Sunday I cookedChristmas so I could come difficult for the girls as there snow!!home. Unfortunately, that When we look back on 2010, aren’t any children their agedidn’t happen. However, my we look back with gratitude there. However, Claudine is having amum came over and we spent and see much change. At the particularly difficult time, withChristmas with some friends in beginning of the year, we did Recently we had a retreat with her slow recovery from herTexas. I missed home, but we not even know if we could all the missionaries and knee operation (in June) andhad a good time. return to our beloved land in personnel related to OMS. We her deafness. Just this week North Africa. Jack was were very encouraged by her hearing was reduced soI heard from immigration and I released from hospital exactly God’s Word and support of drastically that it was as if bothhave an appointment for my one year ago today! We are people. of her hearing aids had stoppedfingerprinting this Wednesday, extremely thankful that his working. She and Marc will beJan 5th. This means it is mid-year check-up went well, Gail is enjoying school but returning to France for a fewmoving forward and I should and look forward to the next finds the sixty kilometres weeks so pray that she can findbe getting my traveller’s one in February. We pray that round trip every day a bit too a solution to the hearingpermit soon! Please pray that it the doctors will be able to much. The girls are doing well problem and that her knee willcontinues to run smoothly. reduce his medication so that it at school and receiving a lot of heal quickly. does not cause so much support.”Please also pray for Jay. I drowsiness, also that these bi- The first half of 2010 was slowheard before Christmas that he annual reviews may be Lesley and Philippe write: on the project as we were busywas shot and although he was reduced to annual reviews. “We hope that you all had a helping our friends who hadok, had to go to jail. I think he very happy Christmas and wewas in possession of a gun. We are looking for someone to pray that you will have good been expelled pack up theirThis means he spent Christmas join us in our business, health and a close walk with homes. One area of work thatin jail and I know the boys are working for no salary – the Jesus throughout 2011. Thank has been much appreciated isscared of jail. I don't know same as we do. It would you very much for your helping villages with theirwhen he's getting out either require them to come out and prayers and your financial water supply; repairing aand school starts back join us, to be trained up for a support in 2010. spring, making irrigationtomorrow. He's already behind month to six weeks, and then We have both received our channels, making an area forat school and if he gets further residency cards, although washing clothes, repairing abehind he could give up. Pray they could do the work from Philippe’s is only valid for one pump for a well etc. Marc’sthat he'll know God's presence anywhere. It is not difficult year, so he’ll have to start knowledge and experienceand love and that either he'll work, but does require some applying for his next one in have proved very useful forget out ready for school, or one who is good with June. these projects and he andthere will be some other computers and enjoys Philippe have been extremelysolution for his education. administration work. Our A conference recently took busy supervising the work this expectation is that once place in Europe for people Autumn and Winter. PrayI've heard some people aren't trained, it would normally working with AWM / Pioneers that in 2011 we will be able in our country and we were to do an integrated program joined by many of our of health lessons and literacy colleagues. We had teaching as well as just infrastructure. about change and transition Philippe now needs to have a and there were times of group work visa, which means that debriefing. It was an emotional he needs to pay social security time, but much healing took and income tax here as well as place and we returned home to in France. We are grateful to our country with the assurance the donors of the project who that (at least for the time have agreed to pay for this from the project funds.” Sue Hartley OSM Organiser Connexion 3

Ken records twenty years ofwork in Romania Part 2We continue Ken Irwin’s The dirtiest town in Europe! Happiness in a pair of shoesrecollection of his aid and ministry All the equipment and gifts of aidvisits to Romania by recalling his were distributed to the hospital and number of church fellowships from thesecond visit in 1990 when in baby orphanages but there was still UK involved in the country and Kenaddition to taking much needed plenty of clothing that Ken and his and his fellow workers havefood, clothing and equipment to an party had to give away. He sought considered it a privilege to beimpoverished country he was also advice on locations where it would be amongst them.invited to attend a wedding. appreciated. He was told that the town of Copsa Mica was a place of A further visit followed in1991. ThisA second trip planned great poverty and that they would only time Ken was accompanied by aThat first visit created a great need to drop it in the street and it much bigger team of interestedimpression on Ken and Colin and so would find eager recipients! people drawn from a number ofan invitation from Jon Voda to attend Copsa Mica, was considered to be churches. Normally a date would behis daughter’s wedding opened up the the most polluted town in Europe. set for the visit and a request sent outopportunity for a return visit in early Large chemical factories once to interested churches and otherAugust 1990. Colin, through his belched sulphur and graphite into the organisations for items of aid. Beforebusiness connections, and Anita his atmosphere, producing a black cloud the journey could begin however, anwife, through her position as a which resulted in everything being invitation had to be received from achildren’s nurse, obtained a covered in particles of soot. Even church in Romania, which wasconsiderable amount of medical down the valley at Medias, when the necessary for the granting of visas;equipment, including two maternity Jon Voda would always arrange this.delivery beds, stethoscopes, Small child enjoying Robinson's A mini-bus and a seven and a half tondefibrillators and baby food; suddenly drink truck were used to carry the goods ofthey were overwhelmed with gifts. food and clothing, much of it wasThis meant that in addition to Colin’s wind was blowing in the wrong donated by the stallholders oftrailer, a truck had to be hired to carry direction, washing could not be hung Warrington Market where one of thethe additional gifts. Amongst the gifts out to dry. When they visited Copsa team, Ken Appleton worked. Amongstreceived were two pallets of baby Mica, they saw children standing on the food taken was a supply ofdrinks donated by the drinks company street corners, their clothes and bananas which were very green when‘Robinsons’ , 500 pairs of shoes and bodies covered in this black dust. It the journey began but just ripe by theclothing for children; these were was said that even the children would time of their arrival in Romania. Theinitially stored in Ken’s garage. The say of their own town, “Black, children who received them had neverclothing and shoes were sorted out by everything black”. Praise the Lord that seen a banana!Ken’s wife Ann, and their neighbours. the town is no longer polluted.The Lord provided for Ken’s trip in the This second visit to Romania opened Village ministryform of a tax refund, other friends the way for all the other opportunitiescoming to the rescue and in one case that followed during subsequent For the 1991 visit, Jon Voda had(John Dolan) joined in the trip. years. Ken and his group met and arranged for Ken and his party to tour received advice from those who had around the smaller villages of theOn this second visit to Romania Ken been active in Romania before the region. Although this was logisticallywas accompanied by his son Stephen revolution. One of these was Gary difficult with such a large party it wasand John Dolan, Colin Pownall and Cox of “EuroEvangelism”, who had also an amazing time of blessing. Thehis family had travelled out been banned from the country for party would locate the local marketseparately. It was the hottest seven years prior to the revolution. place and draw a crowd by simplyweekend of the year, but they The “Romanian Aid Fund” were also a singing. Once a crowd had gatheredcompleted the journey in three days. great help in those early years when an opportunity for preaching thenColin and his family arrived in time for many people and organisations were existed which usually allowed one ofthe wedding of Jon Voda’s daughter, involved in taking aid to Romania, the team to speak through anat which they were treated as including our Connexion and a interpreter. Ken recalls one visit to ahonoured guests and were served by number of Churches in the place called Campani. On thisfamily members; people they had only Warrington Area. There is still a large occasion the team were able to leadmet six months previously. Ken, the worship in a small church.John, and Stephen arrived later. Throughout the service Ken noticed one lady who had a particular sad Volunteers sorting expression on her face and clothes at Ken's home afterwards a member of the team, Margaret Stead counselled her. The4 Connexion lady left the church with the same sad expression but returned later with a bunch of flowers and a beaming smile upon her face; she was a woman who had been visibly transformed!

At that time the Luis Palau Ministers’and Leaders’ Conferenceorganisation had just visited Romaniaand conducted Evangelistic Crusades Friday 6th and Saturday 7th May 2011in Bucharest and Oradea. Ken asked Bawtry Hall Christian Conference Centretheir interpreter, Nelu Pusca (JonVoda’s Son-in-law), how he felt about 'Women inbeing involved with those who were the church :more enthusiastic than organised?Nelu replied, “Yes, but you are taking equal tothe gospel to the people, these people serve?'cannot afford to travel to the towns”. InKen’s mind that really summed up hisministry in Romania over the years. The four sessions are entitled: Unloading at the boy's home 1. Eve the woman and 3. Junia the apostle and her co- her heirs: workers: the place of women inDuring the twenty years that Ken has women and the image of God. the New Testament church.been visiting Romania he has not onlycontinued to visit Medias but has also 2. Miriam the prophet and her 4. Upstart women and their co-extended his visits to other regions of sisters: resolute women in the conspirators: contentiousthe country. Of his original contacts in Old Testament. passages in Paul.the town only the Anghel parentsremain, as their children now live in the Speaker : Rev. Derek TidballUnited States. Two daughters of JonVoda live in Australia, Jon’s son Calin Derek was Principal of the London School of Theology (formerly London Biblelives in Cluj, and Elena with her pastor College) 1995-2007 and is currently a Visiting Scholar at Spurgeon’s College,husband Mihai now lead a church at London.Ghinbav near Brasov. Elana and Mihaialso administer the foundation which A graduate in Sociology and in Theology, Derek’s PhD was entitled ‘Englishsupports “The Children’s Joy “ Nonconformist Home Missions 1796-1901’. A Baptist Minister, Derek served askindergarten in the town of Ghinbav. pastor of Northchurch Baptist Church, Berkhamsted 1972-77 and was Senor PastorThis is now one of Ken’s regular of Mutley Baptist Church, Plymouth 1985-1991. He began teaching evangelism anddestinations to take aid. sociology of religion at LBC on a part-time basis in 1972 and joined the faculty full- time in 1977, becoming the college’s Director of Studies the following year. Next month we conclude Ken’s story when he recalls visits to He was President of the Baptist Union 1990-1991 and became a Vice-President of Romanian prisons and lists the Evangelical Alliance in 1995. He served as the Chairman of the Evangelical some of the highlights from his Alliance Council 2004-2008. He has previously chaired British Youth for Christ, the twenty plus years of visiting the Shaftesbury Project and the British Church Growth Association. For four years country. (1991-5) he was the Head of the Mission Department of the Baptist Union of Great Britain. A young man with his new outfit of clothes Derek is the author of twenty-five books and numerous articles. His Introduction to the Sociology of the New Testament was a ground-breaking book in its field and ‘Skilful Shepherds: Explorations in Pastoral Theology’ has been used by many colleges around the world as a textbook. He delights in writing on the Bible and its application for today. Among his recent books are ‘The Message of the Cross’ and ‘The Message of Leviticus’ both in IVP’s ‘Bible Speaks Today Series’. He edits the Bible Themes Series of BST. He is also recently the author of ‘Ministry by the Book’, ‘New Testament Patterns for Pastoral Leadership and Signposts’, ‘A devotional map of the Psalms’ and ‘The Message of Holiness’. A book on the sociology of Colossians called, ‘In Christ, in Colossae’ (Paternoster) is forthcoming. Derek is a regular preacher and has delivered the Bible Readings at Spring Harvest and Keswick and a good number of other Bible Conventions around the world. He has also served as visiting lecturer in a number of colleges and seminaries including Morling College, Sydney; Ridley College, Melbourne; Örebro Missionsskola, Sweden; Colombo Theological Seminary, Sri Lanka; Hope College, Michigan; and, Gordon-Conwell Seminary, Massachusetts. He is married to Dianne who after 20 years as a Secondary School teacher is now a Baptist Minister and serves as Regional Baptist Minister for the East Midlands Baptist Association. They have one son, Richard, who is at University. As recreation, Derek enjoys reading (especially political biography) and travel. For a booking form contact your church secretary or telephone The Resource Centre 01942 223526 Connexion 5

Radcliffe chapel was Radcliffe re-build progressdestroyed by an arsonattack in March 2008. Construction of the new church at Radcliffe continues at a pace despite theThe photographs below usual delays expected with all types of building work. The main hall of the chapelshow the construction is now weatherproof and it should not be too long before the extended roomsof the new chapel also reach the same point. With the scaffolding around the chapel the building has the appearance of the ark that Noah built. The build is currently ten weeks behind schedule and no doubt the extremely cold winter that we are experiencing will add to that. The building uses traditional lime mortar and this cannot be worked at temperatures below minus one degree Celsius. There was a delay in receiving the stone for the stained glass window and although this has now been delivered it has been found to be slightly too large! Some of the materials that had been planned to be used in the build have also been changed to ensure there is a lack of copper and lead as far as possible and therefore make the building a less attractive target to thieves. It is hoped that the completed building will be both eco-friendly and resistant to criminal activities whilst providing a wonderful witness to God in the area.Successful Musical Friars Green celebrates significantevents at Moorside birthdaysChurch The year 2010 saw four members of the W.A. at Friars Green I.M. ChurchIn the busy pre-Christmas period, Moorside celebrate significant ‘0’ birthdays. In February, Margery Brown became 70.Independent Methodist Church held two Margery first began attending the W.A. with her mother, Edna Wilson, whosuccessful musical events at the church. On for many years was the President of the fellowship, a position also filled bythe 27th November an ‘Afternoon of Music’ Margery.followed a ‘Coffee Morning’ earlier in theday. An extensive programme of music In the months of August, October and November, Audrey Worrall, Joyceinterspersed by a few readings was performedby ‘Sydney Hall, Pupils and Friends’. The Rotherham and Betty Yates all successively reached their 80th birthdays.music ranged from modern popular piecessuch as ‘Sailing’ and ‘Mull of Kintyre’ to ‘Young’ Betty serves the fellowship on a Wednesday afternoon as the ‘teaclassical items from composers such asMendelssohn and Bach. lady’, another daughter whoTwo weeks later, students from the University inherited a role from herof Salford presented a ‘Music Evening’. Aspart of her studies, the programme was mother, Ada Ashton. Mona Caldwellarranged and coordinated by AmyGoldsbrough, a student at Salford and included Finally on November 8th, Monaitems performed by a Saxophone Quartet as Caldwell reached her 90thwell as solo and duet performances on the birthday for which we held aflute and Clarinet. To conclude the evening, party. Mona can rememberthe students combined as a small female choir spending her Wednesdayto perform the seasonal song, “Angels we have afternoons in the schoolheard on High.” holidays attending W.A. meetings along with her6 Connexion mother, Doris King. Mona currently serves as pianist, secretary and as a representative at women’s council meetings. As a fellowship we are looking forward to the year 2020 when we can celebrate another round of ‘0’ birthdays! Perhaps on that occasion we can invite the Connexion W.A.

Church Services disrupted by As Christmas approached, planned special services were thrown into chaos and a number of churches, particularlysevere weather those with elderly congregations cancelled their Carol and Christmas Services. Again, those who were able toFor many churches throughout the Connexion, the record- continue experienced reduced attendances at manybreaking cold weather across the country from the end of events.November onwards, resulted in the cancellation of manyactivities. Initially the churches of the North-East were the Naturally, such persistent extreme cold weather alsoworst affected by the early and persistent snows. The creates other problems. Dewsbury Church had to cancelNorthern Counties Young People’s weekend at Brockley services after a pipe burst and the former Tetlow StreetHall was the first casualty and this was quickly followed by building in Liverpool experienced the same problemthe cancellation of both Spennymoor and Sunderland following the failure of a boiler pilot light. Did your churchCircuit Meetings. Many churches in the North-East were face a difficultunable to hold regular services and other meetings and situationthose activities that did go ahead suffered reduced during theattendances. cold weather? Perhaps as aAs winter’s icy grip extended to other areas, the churches church youin the North-West and Yorkshire began to share the same had to dokind of difficulties that had been experienced in the somethingNorthern Counties. The performance of the Christmas different? Ifmusic event ‘King of Kings’ which was due to be so theperformed by the Bethel Church Choir at Bethel, Wigan, Connexionhad to be cancelled as the roads and pavements in the would like toarea became a skating ring following the fall of fresh snow. hear about it.Pastor from India visits Holy Land PilgrimageGrappenhall From September 26th to October 3rd 2011members of churches in Lowton will be making a pilgrimage to the HolyPastor Ivan Moses, who ministers to a church in the town of Land. The pilgrimage will visit all the sacred sites around theJhansi (400 KM south of Delhi), took the opportunity on a visit Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Jericho andto the UK to lead the worship at Grappenhall I.M. Church on the Dead Sea and will also take time to meet with localRemembrance Sunday. Grappenhall church members, Satish Christians for worship and to share fellowship together.and Shirlee Misal, themselves originally from North India,acted as the contact between Pastor Moses and the Warrington Places are available for anyone who would like to join theChurch. Pastor Moses who has served as a Pastor for twenty- group. The cost of the 8 day pilgrimage is £795 (half board)one years also teaches at various Bible schools, youth camps plus air fare (currently £286 from Manchester - flights alsoand ‘World Vision’ staff retreats. He is currently establishing a available from other airports)home forelderly people Anyone interested should contact Bill Hampson onin Jhansi; there 01942 671581 or [email protected] an increasingproblem inIndia of elderlypeople beingrejected bytheir families.The pictureshows PastorMoses beingwelcomed byChurchDeacon, RoyFindlay. Impossible God - the Passion Play New Members‘Impossible God’ is a one-man passion play written by Frank Topping and performed South Hylton Church,by Mark Topping. It recreates the world of those who witnessed the passion. Palestine SunderlandAD32 is brought to life as numerous characters relive their experience of the events. Eric BrownImpossible God is a powerful exploration of the historical events at the heart of theChristian faith. This inspiring one-man play challenges us to look again at Jesus of Spring View Church, WiganNazareth and consider the meaning of his life, death and resurrection. Bessie Heaton Ken HeatonMark Topping is a professional actor who has toured England, Wales and Ireland for Bessie Jones Christine Skidmorefive years performing as John Wesley. Mark launches a major national tour of his Joanne Walsh Kath Boylenew production at Grappenhall Independent Methodist on Saturday 19th March2011. For further information, contact the Church Secretary, Betty Rowlands on 01925 Connexion 7261221. www.impossiblegod.co.uk

This month Harold Watson of Name your traditional hymn and why? Name a Christian writer and one orEasington Lane Church, Sunderland is more of their books that you wouldthe subject of ‘The Interview’. There are so many, but I suppose my recommend and why?Amongst the many roles that he fulfils favourite hymn is – “And can it be”. It isin his home church and circuit, Harold such a good sing. Also it is a complete I have so many books, but one by Warrenalso manages the Northern Counties sermon in itself, from Jesus coming to this W. Wiersbe I would recommend is – “SoDVD and Video Library which of earth bringing only love, we sing of His that’s what a Christian is!” – givingcourse is available to all churches of the sacrifice on the cross and eventually look twelve pictures of the dynamic ChristianConnexion. towards our entry into heaven to claim life. He is a professor of preaching at the crown through Christ. Grand Rapids Baptist Seminary, USA.Describe your first memories ofattending Church? Of the more modern worship songs Beyond your Christian activities what which would be your favourite? are your other interests and hobbies?My first memories are of being in theEasington Lane Independent Methodist Again there are many but ‘Such Love’ has For forty-six years I have been activelySunday School. At that time, when I have to be a favourite. involved in voluntary community work inchecked the church records, there were Easington Lane, County Durham and350 children attending. I have attended Do you have a favourite hymn writer? throughout the North East.Easington Lane I.M. Church ever since. Being initially used to singing from the In 1964 I was appointed as a trustee andHow were you introduced to old black I.M. Hymnal and then the red committee member of the ElemoreIndependent Methodism? one, there are so many good hymn Colliery Welfare in Easington Lane. After writers, but my favourite hymn writer has the closure of the colliery, the welfareI was taken in 1934 to the Easington Lane to be Charles Wesley – he wrote so many buildings became a CommunityIndependent Methodist Church when I wonderful hymns, with great theological Association and I continued on thewas christened at three weeks old. content. Committee, later becoming the President. In 2001 the Community AssociationWhat are the strengths of your church? Which passage of scripture means the became the Easington Lane Community most to you and why? Access Point and I became chairman.We have a good sense of love for eachother and especially for our Lord. We Psalm 27:1 – “The Lord is my light and I have also served on the Committee ofhave a great group of people who all my salvation – whom shall I fear? The the Northeast Area of Communitywork together. People coming into the Lord is the stronghold of my life – of Organisations, (covering the area ofchurch remark about the warmth of the whom shall I be afraid?” County Durham, Northumberland andwelcome they receive. Cleveland) and for a number of years Also verses 13 & 14 – “I am still served as Chairman.We are also involved in many confident of this: I will see the goodnessorganisations in the local community, so of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait I was also instrumental in thewe take the church to the community, and for the Lord; be strong and take heart and establishment of the Durham Countyfrom this work many people have come wait for the Lord”. Federation of Dance Clubs and served forinto the church. many years as its Secretary and The reason why these portions of Treasurer, and on retiring from theWhich roles do you fulfil in Christian scripture mean so much to me:- committee many years later was madeOrganisations including your own Honorary Life President.church? Which and why is the most Twenty-one years ago in 1989 I was takendemanding? into the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle and I have also served as chairman of after an angiogram it was decided that I Easington Lane Youth-works.In my own church at Easington Lane, I needed a quadruple heart by-passserve as President, a position I have operation the next day. At that time heart I was invited to serve on the committeefulfilled for the past twenty-six years. by-pass operations were not so common for the ‘Easington Lane Initiative’ at theWithin the Sunderland Circuit I am a as today, and not a lot was know about Chief Executives Office at Sunderlandmember of both the Advisory & them. On the morning of the operation I Civic Centre – allocating money from theOrganising, and Plan Committees. I also opened my bible at random to Psalm 27. Government Single Regeneration Budgetserve the Northern Counties As I read it I felt God speaking to me to qualifying projects in Easington Lane -Confederation of I.M. Churches as Video through the words of the Psalm, this initiative lasted for two years.Library Secretary, Statistical Secretary, particularly the last two verses, I thenand Assistant General Secretary. knew that I would, after the operation, see Together with other interested people IEcumenically, I am a member of the the goodness of the Lord in the land of the helped in the formation of the Elemorecommittee of the local fellowship of living. My wife was allowed to come in to Colliery Banner Action Group of which Ichurches. In the past, I have served this see me before the operation and I told her am chairman. We had the colliery bannerfor four years as Chairman. of the experience and we read the Psalm through again together and we both felt aAll these roles have different demands wonderful calmness and peace before Iand I work conscientiously with them all went to the operating theatre.but I have had to curtail some of myactivities for health reasons. Which Christian Leader(s) / Teacher (s) / Preacher(s) have made the greatest impact on you? Arthur (Monte) Grey, a minister at our church in Easington Lane, was also the youth club leader, and he nurtured me in my young and teenage life, and instilled in me many Christian virtues and helped me establish my faith. Also his father Tom Grey, who encouraged me as a teenager in the Christian Endeavour, helping me with my first attempts at speaking in the C.E. meeting.8 Connexion

restored and a replica made, to march Do we ‘miss’together with a brass band to the Durham anyone?Miners Gala each year. The replicabanner is on constant display in our Reading some of Ruth Bell do”, and then developed into thechurch. Graham’s writings recently, I was prayer, “Lord, don’t let me miss an interested to read words of a teacher opportunity, don’t let me miss oneI am a governor at Easington Lane who had experienced a tragic fire at person, as you lead me and guidePrimary School. her school in Chicago in 1958. She me” told of the panic amongst theIn 2005 I had the honour of receiving the children at the school and of how The words of John Wesley’sMBE from the Queen at an Investiture at she helped the children to safety challenging hymn “Give me the faith”Buckingham Palace for “Service to the through a window and down ladders are a meaningful prayercommunity of Easington Lane, County held by fire-fighters amidst theDurham and the Northeast”. Also at that terrible heat and black smoke. She I want an even strong desire,time I was made Honorary Life President described how she reached the I want a calmly fervent seal,of Easington Lane Community Access ground, and looked back up at the To save poor souls out of the fire,Point. windows, and then continued, “It was To snatch them from the verge then that I saw the one I had of hellOne of my hobbies beside supporting missed”. Ruth Graham Bell pointed And turn them to a pardoning God,Sunderland Football Club, was stamp out that Christians must be alert to And quench the brands in Jesus’collecting. During this time I decided to the needs of others, in the pressures blood.collect stamps about Jesus. From this I and dangers of life, and be wise notmade a collection of stamps which I to miss anyone. Enlarge, inflame and fill my heartmounted in a red album entitled “Jesus - With boundless charity divine,this is your life”. It contains over 100 I was reminded that we need to be So shall I all my strength exert,stamps of Jesus from the prophesy of concerned for those around us, and And love them with a zeal likeIsaiah to His parables, miracles, seek to show love, especially in the thine.crucifixion, resurrection and ascension. “blackness” which exists in the worldThe stamps are from all over the world, today. We are called to care, to show Perhaps our way of reaching peopleincluding Muslim countries. I have shown compassion, and to find may be by a letter, email, phone call,this at various meetings of the Women’s opportunities to help others, as we cup of tea,Auxiliary and Christian Endeavour and love them in Christ. shopping the possibilities arealso to other groups outside the church. endless ! So is God’s love !! Do we miss people? Do we neglectWhat has been the most significant to reach them with messages of Every blessing,event on your Christian Journey? God’s love and saving power? Anne Chisholm Perhaps we can’t reach many, butI suppose it must be my experience before each one we do reach can beand after my heart operation, because I touched by God’s love, as we seekrealised that God had much more work for people for Him, and consequentlyme to do for Him. His family will grow. These thoughts made me ask myself, “What can IWhat else would you like to do for God?At the moment I will continue working forGod in the various things He has led me todo. If He leads me to do somethingdifferent for Him, I trust that I will be ableto follow His will.WOMEN’S WORLD Stretching from Peru to Antarctica, the Republic of ChileDAY OF PRAYER occupies a long, narrow strip of land 2,640 miles long and 110 miles wide. It is a land of incredible contrasts. It also has the‘How Many Loaves Have highest incidence of domestic violence in Latin America andYou? most women suffer from discrimination in some form or other. Equal opportunities are being pursued.On Friday March 4th 2011 women from around the world willcelebrate the Women’s World Day of Prayer. The service has Although organised and led by women, this is essentially abeen written by the women of Chile. It is an appropriate day of prayer for everyone as we demonstrate our solidaritytheme for bread is eaten at every meal and is very much part with our sisters and brothers in other countries, and all areof every day life. The women of Chile offer what it means to welcome to attend. Further information and resources,them as they share this service with us. together with details of services in your area, can be found on the WWDP website at www.wwdp-natcomm.org.Jean Hackett, president of the National Committee of theWomen’s World Day of Prayer Movement, said:‘This is always an exciting day as a great wave of prayersweeps the world, beginning when the first service is held inTonga and continuing around the world until the final servicetakes place, some 35 hours later, in neighbouring WesternSamoa. By then the day will have been celebrated in over 170countries and over 5,000 services will have been held inEngland, Wales and Northern Ireland.’ Connexion 9

The ‘Essential 100 10 Reading – Genesis 32,33 of hardship, Joseph remained faithful andChallenge’ God remained with him. Key Theme – A man who submits toThroughout 2011, the Connexion will God 13 Reading – Genesis 42highlight what are considered to be 100essential passages in the Bible. We reach a crucial point in Jacob’s life, a Key Theme – Healing and restorationStarting at Genesis and going all the time when he had to address all theway through to Revelation we will wrongs that he had earlier committed. Many years had passed but it is clear thatcover on average eight passages each Jacob’s manipulation of Laban’s flocks for Joseph and his brothers the memoriesmonth. The aim of the ‘Essential 100’ had come to light and caused him to flee of that fateful day were a constantis to help people to discover or re- back to his homeland. In Canaan, memory. For the brothers the feeling ofdiscover the bigger picture contained however, there was somebody with an guilt and regret must have been immense;in the Bible. We resume our journey even greater grievance, that of his brother the deceit of their father and the fact thatwith a most significant event in Esau but before Jacob could face his they simply did not know what hadAbraham’s life. brother, he had to face God. happened to their brother must have weighed heavily on their minds. Joseph08 Reading – Genesis 21:1 – 22:19 The picture of Jacob wrestling with God is must have harboured other emotions one that many of us can identify with. throughout the years and he could haveKey Theme – All things are possible Which will prevail, God’s way or man’s? been expected to desire justice at least, ifwith God The outcome for Jacob was not only a not, revenge. changed man but also a new name Israel,We continue the story of Abram and find because he had “struggled with both God Joseph’s questioning of his brothersthat he has reached the age of 100 and and man and had overcome.” Reconciled caused them to argue amongst themselves,Sarai is now 90 when something which is with God, Jacob now faces his brother. he could detect the regret and remorse thatconsidered impossible happens, they Esau is no longer angry with his brother they were experiencing about the past butbecome the parents of Isaac. During the and has forgiven Jacob’s wrongs. Esau instead of savouring their discomfort heperiod since our previous reading God has embraces his obviously nervous brother turns aside to weep, not only for them butalso renamed Abram to Abraham. The and welcomes him back into the family. for himself. Healing and restoration can bechange of name is significant for the There is a lesson here for everyone on painful experiences both in ouroriginal names means ‘exalted father’ reconciliation and forgiveness. relationship with others and with God.whilst the new one is ‘father of many’. 11 Reading – Genesis 37 14 Genesis 43,44No sooner has God presented the couplewith their promised son when Abraham is Key Theme – Growing Pains Key Theme – Remorse brings changescommanded by God to go and sacrificehim. During his long relationship with The next five essential readings follow the Joseph, although he clearly loved hisGod, Abraham had been tested on many development of Abraham’s descendents brothers, was not prepared to let them offoccasions but perhaps this was to be the from a family into a nation. This, the hook easily. He began a series ofultimate test of faith, one which he did not however, was not just any family but the manoeuvres that caused them muchfail. As Abraham and Isaac approached one with which God had made a concern and worry about their ownthe appointed place, Abraham testifies to Covenant; an agreement that they would personal safety but more importantlyhis faith in God by prophesying that “God be His people and that He would be their about the effect it would have onhimself will provide the lamb for the burnt God. These readings are important Benjamin and their father Jacob. By theoffering” (22:8). God did indeed provide a because they detail the development of time that the silver chalice is found inlamb to replace Isaac but more this family with all the growing pains and Benjamin’s sack, Judah is prepared toimportantly sent His only Son Jesus to be difficulties they experienced. Even though offer himself as Joseph’s slave to ensurethe sacrificial lamb for the whole of this family had been given God’s blessing that his youngest brother can return tomankind. they were just as prone to human failings their father. The irony of the situation as anyone else. would not have escaped Joseph. One of09 Reading - Genesis 27,28 those who had sold him into slavery was This first reading warns us that even those now prepared to become his slave.Key Theme – We all have faults who consider themselves to be part of God’s family, they should be aware of the Joseph had changed and so had hisThese two chapters remind us that people dangers of favouritism, arrogance, brothers. The realisation of what they haddo not become children of God simply jealousy and hatred. The passage should done to the young Joseph weighed heavilybecause their parents are. In a modern remind us that we must truly love the on their conscience. They had learnedcontext, there are no Christian people around us, especially our families. from their mistake and were not preparedgrandchildren. It also reminds us that there to lose a second member of the family.is no such thing as a perfect family. 12 Reading – Genesis 39 - 41Throughout this reading, we see Jacob as a 15 Genesis 45:1 – 46:7scheming, deceitful individual who is only Key Theme – Faithful throughout for himself. Not only does he deceive hardships Key Theme – God’s hand at workhis father but also steals from his brotherand schemes against Laban, his uncle, in His disposal by his brothers by selling him When Joseph finally revealed his truethe management of his flocks. Yet God into slavery brought about an amazing identity, the reaction of his brothers to thiswould transform and bless Jacob. change to Joseph’s character. As we read powerful Egyptian Lord, change from about his time as a slave in Egypt there is worry to real fear. If this man is who he10 Connexion nothing to identify him with the spoilt and claims to be then he will only have one arrogant child of the earlier narrative. thing on his mind, revenge. Joseph was a man who had been truly Joseph now understood that God’s hand transformed. He had become a hard- has been at work throughout. It was God worker and a man of integrity. Even that created the situation that led him to though he gained an important position in Egypt and gain the important position that Potiphar’s household, Joseph could have he now occupied; his brothers were not to made life even more comfortable for blame. Joseph had realised that it was for himself if he had succumbed to the wishes the family’s long-term benefit that he had of his master’s wife. He resisted, he was come to Egypt to enable Abraham’s faithful to his beliefs and his principles descendents to survive the years of even though this resulted in further short- famine and emerge later as a nation. term difficulties. Throughout this period

In the Joy of the President attends companies Lord deliberately Christian Aid AGM under-Geoffrey T. Sanderson, valuingLamberhead Green, Wigan It has been my privilege to represent the goods andAge 83 (26th December members of the Connexion at the last two materials2010) Christian Aid Annual Meetings and I have from poorer been impressed by the work that it is doing. nations toGeoff died on Boxing Day after a Christian Aid was formed in the aftermath of avoidshort illness. He was introduced to the Second World War by Churches in paying taxIndependent Methodism when he Britain and Ireland to assist in the in thosemet and married Margaret reconstruction of Europe following six years countries.Gaskell, whose family were life- of devastation. Since that time it has grown Some of thelong members at Lamberhead to be a highly respected aid agency, a countries which are richest in naturalGreen. pathfinder in finding ways to eradicate resources are amongst the poorest because of poverty. Christian Aid still acts in situations these practices, resulting in their peopleHe soon became involved in where warfare or natural disasters have living in poverty. Christian Aid is leadingchurch, Circuit and Connexional devastated communities but now a major part the fight to highlight and stop this practicelife. At church, he served over the of its work is in finding ways to tackle the through a campaign entitled, “Trace theyears as President, Treasurer, underlying causes of poverty and to find Tax”. It hopes that it will be able to emulateMen’s Fellowship Secretary and sustainable solutions. its success of the ‘Fair Trade’ campaign inchoir member where he was able bringing this issue to a wider audience.to share his love of music and Difficult yearhymns. He was involved in Circuit New innovationwork and represented Wigan At this year’s Annual Meeting the reports ofCircuit on Connexional the work undertaken in the last year were One innovation that was reported at theCommittee for a number of years. inspiring, despite it being a difficult year meeting this year was a partnership between financially. The Chair of Christian Aid is Christian Aid and the CongregationalMany people will remember his Dame Anne Owers, the Chief Inspector of Federation. Christian Aid highlightedparticipation in socials and Prisons, who provided a review of the year. projects in the Dominican Republic,pantomimes. His sense of humour Reductions in the value of sterling against providing publicity and support for thewas always evident. He served in other currencies has led to a decrease in the churches of the Congregational Federationthe Navy towards the end of the work that can be supported overseas and the which in turn pledged to raise an agreedSecond World War and always global economic crisis has led to falling amount for those projects.claimed that the Japanese income. Great efforts have been made tosurrendered because they heard he ensure that the work continues to be as Christian Aid is keen to listen to thewas on his way to the Far East. effective as possible. On a positive note, members of its sponsoring churches, of Christian Aid has attracted more funding for which we as Independent Methodists are one,The fellowship are grateful for his projects from government because it has so each Annual Meeting concludes with acaring, kindness and wise council demonstrated its effectiveness in changing consultation to check that it is in touch withover many years, as well as the situations. our views. I believe that Christian Aid is acountless odd job repairs he fine example of churches working together,carried out around the premises. It was sobering to hear that the economic we can be proud of what has been achieved; crisis has resulted in an additional 64 million millions had benefited and still do from ourAfter Margaret’s death in 1996, people dropping below the level of earning combined efforts.Geoff found happiness again when two dollars a day, one of the internationalhe married Helen. After a while measures of poverty. Sometimes this Eric Southwickthey decided to move and live in poverty is exacerbated by internationalCornwall (where he died). My busy day ... planning easier. Find others time of night but I actuallyWe thank God for Geoff’s life, from our church. Now we are a enjoy it. As we walk back tofriendship and commitment and Weekend’ at Nelson IM church group of six and we will walk the car we decide we will do itpray for God’s blessing on Helen, – you never know who you the eight miles together, again next year but we intendhis daughter Gill, granddaughter might meet on a night like encouraging one another along being nearer the front when theKate and all his friends. tonight. Put backpack with my the way. walk starts. As we drive away walking boots then sit down for we see lots of other ladiesGeoff came home to Lamberhead a rest. I admit it – I fell asleep. 00:00 The walk starts… arriving back and we knowGreen for the they will be feeling elated too.funeral 22:15 Daughter-in-law calls. 00:20 We finally get out ofservice on Time to go to Burnley Football the football ground. This is a 04:00 Climb into bed at last;10th January Club to register for the ladies only walk and everyone what a day! Thank you, Godwhich was ‘Midnight Walk’ in aid of the has their pink Tee-shirt on. It that you really have been withconducted by local hospice. brings a lump to the throat to me every minute of the day. Ihis brother- see so many ladies walking have enjoyed so many goodin-law 22:30 Join the queue to together at this time of night. things today.Norman register. It seemed early but Roads are not closed but trafficPrescott. already there are hundreds of is stopped. Footnote: people milling everywhere. Meet lots of people we know. 03:20 Finally complete the The two ‘oldest’ It’s a lovely, exciting and walk. I cannot describe the members of our group expectant atmosphere. Not feeling when we cross the made it to church next been there long when we see finish line. We go and register morning. Where were the the Sunday School Secretary our return and pick up our ‘youngsters’ I ask myself, from Nelson. She is pleased to sponsor sheets. ‘Bacon butties’ have they no staying be given my suggestions for the all round. Not something I power? service – it will make her would normally want at this Connexion 11

Connexional A Day in the life of opportunity to talk deeper with her number to call the flat. After the Addresses Susan Western – but obviously today is not the third attempt, go back to the car day. and ask them to ring her. President Susan Weston, is a Connexional Obviously it’s time to slow down Eric Southwick Minister at Cliviger Church, 09:10 Arrive in town to help set and relax so that at least my brain ‘The Bungalow’, Earl Street, Colne and Nelson Circuit, up the stall for the Macular Disease can kick back in! Help mum to get SEAHAM SR7 0DH recalls an extremely busy day support group. This is part of ready for the wedding. Make sure t : 0191 5813945 last summer. A day, which Burnley’s celebration of seventy- we’ve got everything. Off we go! e : [email protected] started early and finished late, five years of Voluntary Services. during which, she relied upon Find that everything is ready and I 12:20 Arrive at Colne Parish General Secretary God to see her through the am not needed now until 09:30. Church. Once everyone is seated I Brian Rowney differing events. What will I do with these spare feel calm and relaxed. I look minutes? I meet my daughter-in- round and see there is one part of 17 Humber Road, Astley, law, who is also early and we the church given over to a Coffee MANCHESTER M29 7HL wander off to look around. I buy a Bar. There is a drum-kit tucked new dress that I can wear at the away round a corner. This is a t : 01942 879642 wedding and we are still back in church that is moving with the e : [email protected] time for our slot manning the times and reaching out to its stand. community. Administrative Secretary David Hughes My busy day : 09:30 There are some balloons 13:00 Bride arrives. She looks to be blown up. Have we enough lovely. It is a thoughtful service; 604 Wigan Road, Atherton, Some days are busier than others. breath? Talk to people about the children are not given the MANCHESTER M46 0GA These are the days that you can Macular Disease and the Support opportunity to become bored. only enjoy getting through if you Group. Decide to go and walk Then it is outside for the t : 01942 886362 ask God to help. around with a balloon to encourage photographs. It is very hot standing e : [email protected] people to ask about M.D. in order around in the heat of the day but 02:40 Wake up with a feeling to point them in the direction of we can get a cold drink on the way Financial Administrator of panic. Is the wedding cake our stand. Spend some time talking to the reception. enquiries to : alright? What if it sinks? I’ve never with the helper on the Barnardo’s left one ready stacked before. Stand. She says she will mention it 15:00 Arrive at the reception Mrs. Gillian Jacks Realise that if I don’t calm my to the older members of her family. venue. The cake is still as I left it – 5 Dorchester Road, Gt. Sankey, fears I won’t get anymore sleep. ‘Sure Start’ has a stall giving out I should not have doubted. Plenty Say to myself, ‘Don’t worry about fruit salad to encourage healthy of people to catch up with. Seated WARRINGTON WA5 1XZ anything, instead pray about eating. They have recipes too. I with strangers – the family decided e : [email protected] everything’ (Philippians 4:6). Pray give them a leaflet about large to mix everyone up so that people for the wedding, the bride (one of print fruit and vegetable recipe have to get to know each other. Business Department my nieces), the groom, the books. We will point people in Good idea. Over the meal, we families… each other’s direction. learn that Stella and Brian are also Registered Office Christians who have recently and Resource Centre 06:45 Wake up rested. Thank 10:30 More helpers arrive. Our moved to Wales. We talk about Fleet Street, WIGAN WN5 0DS you, Lord. That’s the latest I’ve time slot is finished; time to go how they met the bride and groom, slept all week. ‘This is the day that home. the things they are involved in and t : 01942 223526 the Lord has made. I will rejoice things we are involved in. e : [email protected] and be glad in it.’ ‘The Lord is 10:35 As I am walking back to Recognise God is encouraging us with me; he will help me.’ (Psalm the car park I meet the minister all through each other; it is a f : 01942 227768 118: 24 & 7). Have a prayer time from the local Baptist Church. She blessed time together. before I get out of bed. is giving out leaflets inviting Connexional Services Manager people for coffee and light lunches. 19:00 People begin arriving for Andrew M. Rigby 07:10 Look at the clock. Realise I decline the offer but wish them the evening reception. A young that the lounge clock has not well. girl arrives on her own looking Publications Editor chimed. As I turn the clock key, it lost. I talk with her and keep her Rob Brooks occurs to me that man invented the 10:50 Back at home I have a company until someone else t:01925 263383 clock. How can we be fifteen drink and make a couple of arrives that she knows. minutes late without a clock to telephone calls. I will not make it e :[email protected] measure time? to the W.A. meeting but I can send 20:00 Mum is ready to leave. She my apologies and best wishes. has enjoyed herself but now wants All articles and advertising notices 08:00 Take a cake to the venue Need to get changed for the to go home. I’m happy to go too. I for the magazine should be sent for today’s ‘Great Big wedding now but I need a shower need a break before I get ready for Tea Party’ for ‘Open first. the rest of the night. to the Resource Centre. Doors.’ It is a beautiful All other officers’ addresses can sunny Saturday – why 11:30 Everyone is ready, time to 21:15 Arrive home. Check in be found in the Directory which is waste a moment. go. with my Mother-in- law. She tells me that approximately 100 obtainable from the 08:15 Reach the 11:50 Cannot remember mum’s contacts were made today at the Resource Centre hairdressers. As I have my hair cut and styled, I Macular Disease stand. Connexional Accountant am asked about what Change out of wedding Eric Southwick & Co we have been doing at finery into jogging pants church recently. Keep and Tee-shirt. Into (Chartered Accountant) waiting for the backpack put… water 51 The Avenue bottle, sponsor sheet, extra layer, notes for SEAHAM SR7 8NS songs and suggested t : 0191 581 2233 order of service for m : 07790 812014 ‘Young People’s e : [email protected] f : 0191 581 3999 continued on page 11 All cheques should be made payable to: ‘Independent Methodist Association Inc.’ except for Resource Centre sales / payments which should be made payable to: ‘Independent Methodist Resource Centre’. ISBN 0141 - 4372 Website: www.imcgb.org.uk12 Connexion