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MARCH 2019 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

It’s Lent again. Yippee! I hear you say, or do I…..? Lent is the season in the Christian calendar that precedes Easter, a period of 46 days, in which we have time to prepare for the most important festival in the year – Easter. Some people groan when Lent comes round, and associate the six week period with ’going without’ or having to give something up. Traditionally it is a time of year to sacrifice something that we might like, and use the time or the money saved to spend time with God, or give to charity.

The old English word for Spring is Lent, and as Lent coincides with Springtime in England, it seems a very appropriate title. As we emerge from the Winter, we see a lengthening of the days, for which we are grateful as nature tells us that it’s time of hibernation is over.

Lent is the time when we can carry out spiritual maintenance. Just as car or a house need repairs from time to time, so too does our spiritual life. We all go through patches when we feel uplifted in our faith, when all is going well, and things are positive. But most of us will have experienced ‘down’ days, when everything feels as if it is going wrong, when God seems to be distant, and nothing in our prayer life seems to be happening.

If you can answer ‘yes’ to any of the above, then Lent is a good time to give yourself some space, and to re-engage with God. There are several Lent books available, with a short Bible reading, an explanation and a prayer to help you through each day. There are apps available on your mobile phone if you are someone who likes to use modern technology. Another suggestion is that you have a blessings jar for Lent. Every time something good happens, and you are grateful and want to thank God, write on a piece of paper and put it in your blessings jar. It might be a nice meal, or a good conversation, admiring the beauty of the unfolding Spring, or a celebration shared by a friend or family member.

With the coming of blue skies and sunny days, we may feel energised to do some spring-cleaning, or pottering in the garden. So too, we need to look within ourselves and see where we can make improvements in our faith. If God were to look into the nooks and crannies of our spiritual life, I wonder what he would find? If things aren’t as they should be, then Lent is the time to address those matters, so that we are truly ready to journey through Holy Week, and then celebrate Easter.

Make the most of Lent!

Hilary

Prayer

Lord God, we love and adore you.

Gazing at the splendour of a sunset,

We are transported to a vision of the glory of heaven.

Everything in heaven is yours.

Standing on the mountain top,

We are in awe of your creation spread before us.

Everything on earth is yours.

Hearing the sound of beautiful music,

You lift us up above our cares.

In your hands are all strength and comfort.

Marvelling at the sight of springtime buds and blossom,

You give us renewed hope.

You are the source of new life.

Lord God, we love and adore you. Amen.

Christine Fox, minister, Nottingham Trent Valley Circuit.

From The Methodist Church Prayer Handbook 2018/19.

All events held here at Winchester Road unless stated otherwise

Tues 5th March: Church Outreach Committee, 7.30pm

Sun 10th March: Uniformed Organisations Anniversary Church Parade

Sun 17th March: Rededication of our Pastoral Visitors

Sat 23rd March: Winchester Café, 10am-4pm

Sun 31st March: Mothering Sunday service 10.30am

Sun 21st April: Easter Sunday, Sacrament of Holy Communion at 9am, and service at 10.30am

Sun 28th April: Church Anniversary service with Mmasape Zihle, followed by a shared lunch

Wed 8th May: Bullying and Harassment Course, Westminster Central Hall (see page 14)

Sat 15th June: Winchester Café, 10am-4pm, proceeds for JMA

First & Third Wednesday of each month: Open Fellowship, 2.30-4pm (see page 12)

Every Friday during term time: Coffee Morning, 10am-12noon, to support Action for Kids

Second Friday of each month, Oct-May: London Methodist Luncheon Club, 11.15am coffee / 12.10pm lunch, Lancaster Hall Hotel, Craven Terrace, W2 3EL (see page 8)

I was doing my knitting on the M11 the other day when a policeman in the lane next to me shouted “Pullover!”

I admire his enthusiasm, but I’m actually knitting a cardigan.

Bible Brain Teaser

16 books of the Bible – can you find them?

I once made a remark about the hidden books of the Bible. It was a lulu; kept people looking so hard for facts … and for others it was a revelation. Some were in a jam, especially since the names of the books were not capitalized. But the truth finally struck home to numbers of our readers. To others it was a real job and there was nearly a mass exodus. We want it to be a most fascinating few moments for you. Yes, there will be some really easy ones to spot. Others may require judges to help them. I will quickly admit, it usually takes a minister to find one of them, and there will be loud lamentations when it is found. A little lady says she brews a cup of tea so she can concentrate better. See how well you can compete. Relax now, for there really are sixteen names of books of the Bible in this paragraph.

[Answers in next month’s newsletter.]

Sent in by Janice Pettit

Holiday Club

Monday 29th July– Friday 2nd August

Holiday Club this year will be from Monday 29th July to Friday 2nd August.

For children aged 5 to 11. (Reception to Year 6.)

More details to follow.

Please let Laura Pease if you are able to help for all, or part, of the week.

Coffee & lunch Days

The following are the dates for coffee & lunch days for the dancing school. Any help is always gratefully received.

Saturday 23rd March
Saturday 15th June proceeds for JMA
Saturday 13th or Saturday 20th July (dependant on our commitment to Highams Park Day)

Thank you,

Janice

Don’t Forget!

Daylight saving time will begin at 1am on Sunday 31st March, so don’t forget to put your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed on Saturday night!

What do you call a man with no shins?

Tony.

Irene Violet Phillippo

Nigel, Penny and Phill would like to say a huge thank you for all your cards, messages and donations in memory of our very dear Mum. Mum’s health had been failing towards the end of 2018 – it seemed as if every week she picked up a different infection and sadly at New Year with yet another infection she died peacefully as she would have wanted. We were all able to spend time with her in her final couple of days and this was such a blessing.

At Mum’s celebration service which Phill led he talked of Mum’s love for Winchester Road remembering that when she was young her Mother used to say to her ‘I don’t know why you don’t take your bed down there’ as in her eyes Mum was always at church. Mum remembered the names of many people at Winchester who she had grown up with and even towards the end of her life could remember the words of favourite hymns as well as the hymn numbers from the old Methodist Hymn book. She will also be remembered as a great baker who particularly enjoyed making meringues with a dream topping centre for coffee mornings and bazaars.

She will be sadly missed by all of the family as a much loved Mum, Grandma and Great Grandma.

LONDON METHODIST LUNCH CLUB

Second Friday of each month from October to May at the Lancaster Hall Hotel, Craven Terrace, W2 3EL.

11.15am coffee / 12.10pm lunch with guest speakers.

Friday 8th March: Stephen Duckworth

Stories of the Mantlepiece-Victorian Staffordshire Pottery Religious Figures

Friday 12th April: Kingston Churches Action on Homelessness

Camilla Wheal-Communications Officer

Friday 10th May: Clapham Night Hub

Rev Eleanor Jackson

For more information, please speak to Mary Burgoine.

This next article has been written by our Young Church member, Pouran, who attends Cookie Club.

Talents

What are your talents? Are they normal things? Swimming? Cooking? Maybe writing? Or are they unusual, like being able to lick your nose or super-shopping in the time limit of half an hour and spending nearly all of your wages? Whatever your skills or talents, you’ve got to love them, weird and wonderful.

In Cookie Club, we’ve been discussing skills, things that we’re very good at. We wrote (or drew, in Zal’s case) our talents on a Mason jar and popped in a little light to make it light up when it is dark.

But how did you get those talents? Perhaps you tried very hard and got there in the end? Practised till your eyelids drooped. Or maybe, out of nowhere, they appeared and you’ve been showing your skill to your friends.

Perhaps then, you’ve wondered, how on Earth did I actually get them?

Maybe an unusual twist or practised unconsciously.

Maybe God gave them to you?

Yes, perhaps he did.

If everybody were to do the exact same thing, to do have the same talents, it wouldn’t signify us in any way. It would be boring, wouldn’t it? But God loves us and he wants to make us each unique and special in our own quirky or wonderful way. He wants us to marvel and wonder and keep us thinking because he cares! So, if you ever discovered a hidden talent you never knew you had, thank God for giving it to you and thank God for them all.

Pouran

John Wesley images – Part 4: The Death Scene

(Part 1 published May 2018; Part 2 in September; Part 3 in February 2019)

John Wesley died on March 2nd 1791 in the bedroom of his house at 47 City Road at the remarkable age of 87. Deathbed paintings of notable people were a feature of 18th and 19th century art and the Museum of Methodism has a large painting (6 x 5 feet) of John Wesley’s death on show which was painted in 1842 by Marshall Claxton and exhibited at the Royal Academy in London. The picture shows a crowd of people surrounding the dying Wesley, but it never happened, the artist brought together the people who visited Wesley during the last weeks of his life, but not all of them were there when he died. Also Wesley’s bedroom is a much smaller room than the one shown in the picture.

The Rev James Rogers (the young man shown near the centre of the painting) was the Superintendent Minister of the City Road Circuit. As his wife Ann was in poor health, Elizabeth (Betsy) Richie (standing on his right) was put in charge of Wesley’s house and nursed John during his last weeks. Betsy kept a diary of the events leading to Wesley’s death which became the official account circulated to Methodist Societies. During February his doctor John Whitehead (standing on the extreme right) became increasingly concerned about Wesley’s failing strength and called on the family to visit him. Sarah, the widow of his brother Charles (kneeling at the foot of the bed), and her daughter, Sarah, are pictured.

Lying in bed John rallied and asked Betsy and those around him to get him up and then he astonished them by singing two verses of the hymn by Isaac Watts …(STF 79)

I’ll praise my maker while I have breath

And when my voice is lost in death,

praise shall employ my nobler powers;

My days of praise shall ne’er be past,

while life and thought and being last

or immortality endures.

The effort made him tired and breathless and so he was put back to bed where he gave them instructions about his funeral. Shortly after Wesley uttered the words ‘Best of all God is with us’ and then ‘The Lord is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge’. The next morning, Wednesday 2 March after a time of prayer led by Rev Joseph Bradford (on the left of the bed) John Wesley spoke the word ‘Farewell ‘ and passed peacefully away.

One of the other customs followed at the death of notable people was to take an impression of the face of the deceased and from it cast a plaster death mask. The museum has John Wesley’s death mask on display and according to one medical writer the drop visible on one side of his face suggests that he had suffered a stroke.

It was estimated that ten thousand people passed by his coffin which lay in the chapel during the days before the funeral and he was buried in a vault behind the chapel very early in the morning of March 9th to avoid the crowds that were expected. Betsy, aged 47, married a widower Henry Walklate Mortimer at her family’s parish church in Otley, Yorkshire, and played a key role in educating and bringing up his children. She died aged 81 in 1835 and was buried with her husband in Wesley’s Chapel Graveyard but due to the moving of graves and gravestones in the 19th and 20th centuries her last resting place cannot be identified.

The Revd. Andrew Pratt has written a number of hymns on modern themes and is the author of books about hymns, and was also was a member of the team who compiled our new hymnbook Singing the Faith. He wrote a hymn inspired by Wesley’s last words which can be found in Singing the Faith at 610:

Best of all God is with us

God will hold and never fail

Keep that truth when storms are raging,

God remains though faith is frail.

Though there is a set tune for this hymn you may find it easier to sing it to the familiar tune by John Stainer used for the hymn All for Jesus STF 341.

Allen Steel March 2019

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm.

Wednesday 6th March: Bruce McSweeney: Medley of tunes

Wednesday 20th March: Rev Rosemary Eaton: My life

Wednesday 3rd April: Flowers with Pat O’Sullivan

Wednesday 17th April: Rev Hilary Cheng: An Easter theme

For more information, please speak to Sylvia Dixon.

We are sad to announce the death of Jean Fryer, who was a local preacher in this circuit for many years.

A Thanksgiving Service for her life was held at Loughton Methodist

Church on 21st February.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Jean’s family at this time.

The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a mighty saviour, who will rejoice over you with gladness, and renew you in his love.

~ Zephaniah 3:17

Climate change is happening now, and the window of time we have to change the future is getting smaller.

Instead of giving up chocolate this Lent, the Methodist Church is challenging members to take up a challenge to change our lifestyles for the climate.

Could do one of the following:

Go meat free?
Take up alternative forms of transport?
Commit to an hour ‘electricity free’ every day?
Give up single use plastics?
Commit to living locally?
Commit to buying nothing new?

You can find out more and sign up to a challenge at www.livinglent.org

Our family is going to try to give up meat for Lent because, according to research, cutting meat out of our diets could make the single biggest impact on the climate.

By signing up to a challenge at Living Lent, you will receive daily emails of encouragement and inspiration, and also become part of an online Living Lent community making these commitments together.

Transforming our climate is not just a one-off activity, but requires whole-life change. As we journey through Lent together, towards the hope of Easter, let’s explore what God’s world-changing transformation can look like for us as individuals and as a society.

Rachel Lampard

Living Lent is supported by Baptists Together, the Methodist Church, the Church of Scotland and the United Reformed Church.

BULLYING and HARASSMENT COURSE

8th May 2019

Westminster Central Hall

Please would you make your churches aware of the Bullying and Harassment Course to be held at WCH on the 8th May, run by Wendy Beard, Regional Learning and Development Officer.

This is a very useful course for Ministers, Lay workers with leadership roles and Safeguarding Officers.

To book, email Wendy: beardw@methodistchurch.org.uk

Malcolm Bell JP

Circuit Safeguarding Coordinator, Forest Circuit

Prayer

Lord, when I don’t know what to say to you,

Listen to the longings of my heart.

Jesus, when I don’t what to say to myself,

Remind me that you love me.

Holy Spirit, when I don’t know what to say to others,

Whisper, “Courage, I am with you.” Amen.

Norma Bartlett, Wincanton Methodist Church

From The Methodist Church Prayer Handbook 2018/19.

A couple of friendly reminders to all:

Heating: Please do not change the heating settings on the thermostats in the building and please do not turn off any radiators.

The heating system is fully automated. It is okay to press the “On” button on thermostats if an hour’s worth of heating is needed in an area that is being used out of any regular booking times.

Doors to the Hub: Please do not switch off the doors to the Hub.

The doors are really heavy to open without the motor to assist.

(However, if the Disabled button has not been deactivated and you do not have a key to do this, it would be useful to switch off the Hub doors. Otherwise the door’s motors would burn out if the doors were trying to open by the use of the Disabled button but the door was locked.)

Thank you.

If anyone has any queries, please speak to our caretaker, Oliver

Fun fact about mountains:

Mountains aren’t just funny, they are hill-areas.

Thank You

Thanks to the Church and the Wednesday Night Keep Fit Class, a cheque for £100 was sent to CHAPS the charity for prostate cancer.

Please see Barbara Chapman for any further donations or information.

Five Finger Prayer

Your thumb is nearest to you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved ones is, as C.S. Lewis once said, a “sweet duty”.

The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.

The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God’s guidance.

The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger; as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.

And lastly comes our little finger; the smallest finger of all. Which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, “the least shall be the greatest among you.” Your pinky should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.

Tee Hee

They were filming the Antiques Roadshow near me this weekend, so I took along two stuffed dogs that had been in the family for years.

The presenter explained that they were a very rare set, produced by the celebrated Johns Brothers Taxidermists who operated in London at the turn of the 19th Century. He then asked if I had any idea what they would fetch if they were in good condition.

‘Sticks’ I replied.

FEBRUARY 2019 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Everyone,

When listening to the radio, I am often intrigued to hear that most days are celebrated for a special reason. Most of us will be aware of the well-known Saints’ days along with specific dates within the church calendar. And if I were to ask what dates are celebrated in February, I am sure that we would all acknowledge 14th February as being St Valentine’s Day.

Did you know that 17th February is National Random Acts of Kindness Day? This is a new one on me so I thought I would investigate and find out more. Google suggests a number of gestures such as complimenting a stranger, donating to the local foodbank, paying for another person’s coffee, giving something to someone in need.

When we do something to help another it helps us to feel better towards our fellow human beings. If you give way to let a car out from a side road, the other driver will be pleased. When someone lets you out into mainstream traffic, likewise you feel good within.

Jesus showed many acts of kindness to the people of his day, showing empathy and compassion to people who were most in need. He didn’t just do this on 17th February, but it was ingrained within him to show concern and offer help where he could. He invites us to share this same care with those around us.

Whilst on the topic of Random Acts of Kindness, Fairtrade Fortnight is 25th February to 10th March. By purchasing fairly traded goods, those who have worked hard to provide us with such items as tea, coffee, cocoa, cereals etc receive a fairer wage for their efforts. Please support this if you can. The purchase of just one product will contribute to the livelihood of someone else.

Go safely,

Hilary

JUMBLE SALE & COFFEE MORNING

Saturday 2nd March 10am – 12 noon

We are in need of volunteers for our Jumble Sale on this year. If you are able to help in any of the following ways then please let us know.

To set out the tables from 5.30pm on Friday evening (1st March)
To sort and collect jumble from 7pm on Friday evening (1st March)
To serve on the stalls from 9.45am on the Saturday morning
To provide tea/coffee and run a cake stall
To make cakes for the cake stall
To come down at 12 noon on the Saturday to help clear up
To come down at 12.30pm on the Saturday to take a car load to the King’s Road recycling centre and Low Hall tip (many hands make light work!)
To leaflet the local roads the weekend prior to the jumble sale

Please see Hazel Mathews or one of the Stewards if you are able to help in any way. Thank you

Fairtrade Fortnight 2019: Monday 25 February – Sunday 10 March

Stock up on Fairtrade goodies at the Traidcraft stall in the Hub and look out for Fairtrade produce when doing the supermarket shop.

All events held here at Winchester Road unless stated otherwise

Mon 4th Feb: Church Resources Committee, 8pm

Sat 9th February: Winchester Café, 10am-4pm, proceeds towards Guides & Cubs visit to PGL

Sun 10th February: All Age Worship Family Service

Tues 26th February: Church Council meeting, 7.30pm

Fri 1st March: World Day of Prayer (see page 6), 10.30-11.30am, Baptist Church, Cavendish Road, E4 9NG

Sat 2nd March: Jumble Sale, 10am-12noon (see page 4)

Tues 5th March: Church Outreach Committee, 7.30pm

Sun 10th March: Uniformed Organisations Anniversary Church Parade

Sat 23rd March: Winchester Café, 10am-4pm

Sun 21st April: Easter Sunday

Sat 15th June: Winchester Café, 10am-4pm, proceeds for JMA

First & Third Wednesday of each month: Open Fellowship, 2.30-4pm (see page 11)

Every Friday during term time: Coffee Morning, 10am-12noon, to support Action for Kids

Second Friday of each month, Oct-May: London Methodist Luncheon Club, 11.15am coffee / 12.10pm lunch, Lancaster Hall Hotel, Craven Terrace, W2 3EL (see page 7)

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

(A WOMEN LED, GLOBAL, ECUMENICAL MOVEMENT)

Come – Everything is Ready!

Everything is ready and the invitation is for everyone – men, women and children of all ages to join this Day of Prayer. Women of Slovenia, one of the smallest and youngest countries in Europe, have prepared this year’s service and they encourage us to reflect on the barriers they have faced since the end of the Second World War when their country was a part of Yugoslavia, a Marxist socialist republic. They share the challenges they have met and the hopes they have for the future.

World Day of Prayer is an international, inter-church organisation which enables us to hear the thoughts of women from all parts of the world: their hopes, concerns and prayers. The preparation for the day is vast. An international committee is based in New York and there are national committees in each participating country. Regional conferences meet to consider the service and then local groups make their plans. Finally, at a church near you on Friday March 1st 2019 people will gather to celebrate the service prepared by the women of Slovenia.

The Day of Prayer is celebrated in over 120 countries. It begins in Samoa and prayer in native languages travels throughout the world — through Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas before finishing in American Samoa some 38 hours later.

Our local service is being held on Friday 1st March, at Highams Park Baptist Church, Cavendish Road,

Highams Park, E4 9NG, 10.30am – 11.30am.

Mary Burgoine

Prayer

Loving God, we thank you for Women’s World Day of Prayer 2019, for the opportunities it offers us to improve ecumenical relationships and to learn to respect our differences, and for the challenge it poses to us to live out our prayers in action.

As we study the thoughtful service written by the Christian women of Slovenia, may we be inspired to live out its message that ‘the kingdom of God is for all’.

Help us to respect all human life in its uniqueness, and to support one another on the paths of freedom, justice and peace as equal members of your family.

In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Elizabeth Burroughs, Chairperson, National Committee of Women’s World Day

of Prayer for England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

From The Methodist Church Prayer Handbook 2018/19.

We are sad to announce the death of Julie Strelley-Jones.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Julie’s family and friends at this time.

LONDON METHODIST LUNCH CLUB

Second Friday of each month from October to May at the Lancaster Hall Hotel, Craven Terrace, W2 3EL.

11.15am coffee / 12.10pm lunch with guest speakers.

Friday 8th February: Action for Children

Karis Kolawole-Head of Church Partnerships

Friday 8th March: Stephen Duckworth

Stories of the Mantlepiece-Victorian Staffordshire Pottery Religious Figures

Friday 12th April: Kingston Churches Action on Homelessness

Camilla Wheal-Communications Officer

Friday 10th May: Clapham Night Hub

Rev Eleanor Jackson

For more information, please speak to Mary Burgoine.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

~John 3:16

Coffee & lunch Days

The following are the dates for coffee & lunch days for the dancing school. Any help is always gratefully received.

Saturday 9th February proceeds towards Guides & Cubs visit to PGL
Saturday 23rd March
Saturday 15th June proceeds for JMA
Saturday 13th or Saturday 20th July (dependant on our commitment to Highams Park Day)

Thank you,

Janice

My girlfriend said she’d only marry me if I overcame my ambulance obsession.

I can’t wait to get down on one knee nor knee nor knee nor!!

Not got round to getting a diary or calendar for 2019?

Methodist Publishing still have some calendars and diaries in stock which are now on sale:

www.methodistpublishing.org.uk/category/christian-books/methodist-diary-2019-1811

John Wesley images – Part 3: Preaching

(following Part 1 published May 2018 & Part 2 published September 2018)

In March 1739 at George Whitefield’s insistence John Wesley arrived in Bristol and had his first experience of Whitefield’s ‘field preaching.’ In his journal he wrote: I could scarcely reconcile myself at first to this strange way of preaching in the fields,… I should have thought the saving of souls almost a sin if it had not been done in a church. A few days later he changed his mind writing that he had: …proclaimed in the highways the glad tidings of salvation, speaking from a little eminence in a ground adjoining to the city, to about three thousand people. The Scripture on which I spoke was this: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord” [see Isa. 61:1, 2; Luke 4:18, 19].

For the next fifty years Wesley travelled around these islands by horse and coach preaching ‘in the fields’ as well as in churches, rooms, houses, barns or wherever people gathered to hear him often preaching four time a day.

On fifteen occasions he crossed the turbulent Irish Sea and the Museum of Methodism has a noted picture by Maria Spilsbury Taylor portraying the 85 year old John Wesley preaching to a crowd beneath a chestnut tree on his last visit to Ireland in 1789.

Maria Spilsbury (1776-1820) was born in London and for two years lived in Ireland where her father was tutor to the children of Sarah Tighe on their estate in County Wicklow. She learned the rudiments of art from her father who was an engraver but she had no formal training, though it is believed that she received advice from Sir Joshua Reynolds. Remarkably she exhibited at the Royal Academy when she was only fifteen. Evangelical religion played a key role throughout her life and in 1808 she married a Hampshire minister Revd. John Taylor. The Taylors moved to Ireland and lived with the Tighe family in Dublin where Maria painted numerous evangelical subjects particularly those involving children and families. She emphasised the innocence of children and the role of parents in their upbringing. The illustration on the previous page is part of the larger picture painted in 1815 claiming to show John Wesley ‘field preaching’ in 1789 to an attentive crowd though the actual event is said to have occurred in the great hall of the Tighe family mansion. In this picture Maria introduced four of her own children highlighted just to the left of the figure of Wesley. If you take a magnifying glass to Maria’s painting you will see that the face of Wesley is a good copy of a well-known portrait by Romney (shown here) which is on view in the National Portrait Gallery. Sadly Maria died in June 1820 following the miscarriage of her sixth child.

George Whitefield, according to many reports was a dramatic preacher capable of rousing his hearers, whereas it is difficult to form a picture of Wesley as a preacher. Those who heard him say he preached without notes and that his clear logic engaged them, many also said that his authority and personality made an impression on them. John Wesley’s printed sermons do not excite, however we do not have the anecdotes or Bible stories that he used to illustrate his text. His preaching changed lives but he did not leave people at the ‘mountain top of conversion’ for wherever he went he left behind a Methodist Society. People joined small supportive groups (classes) meetings guided by a Class Leader where they were concerned with both the spiritual health and welfare of its members. Today we refer to these as pastoral groups, with a Pastoral Visitor fulfilling a caring oversight role without holding meetings. However in some churches there are still Class meetings, while others have house groups or home fellowships which are described on the Methodist Church Web Site as being one of the most powerful ways for people to feel that they belong and to learn and grow. Increasingly they are seeking in various ways to renew and expand the opportunities for Christian conversation about the things that matter.

At the Methodist Church Commissioning Service for Class Leaders and Pastoral Visitors the minister is required to say It is the tradition of the Methodist Church that within our community we offer pastoral care to one another. In order that this ministry may be fulfilled, the church appoints Pastoral Visitors and Class Leaders. It is their privilege and responsibility, in the name of Christ…. to pray regularly for those in their care; to share in their joys; and to give comfort and support in time of sorrow and need.

Allen Steel February 2019

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm.

Wednesday 6th February: Janet Seward: Dick Turpin

Wednesday 20th February: Outing to Middleton House to see the snowdrops*

Wednesday 6th March: Bruce McSweeney: Medley of tunes

Wednesday 20th March: Rev Rosemary Eaton: My life

*If the weather isn’t suitable we will have a Member’s own instead at the Church, or I will phone if it is cancelled.

Sylvia

Brenda Dowsett

Brenda has moved from Theydon Bois to Felstead.

Please see Barbara Chapman if you would like Brenda’s new address.

We are sad to announce the death of Rene Phillippo (Ward).

Rene’s funeral was held in January at Southend Crematorium.

We remember Nigel Ward and Penny Borkett and the family in our prayers.

www.parishpump.co.uk

The Bible verse of 2018

A Bible app, YouVersion, has named Isaiah 41:10 as the most popular verse of 2018.

That verse has been posted, bookmarked, and highlighted more times than any other on the app (which has been downloaded more than 350,000 times around the world).

Isaiah 41:10 reads: ‘So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.’ The verse also came top in Chile, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Peru, South Africa, Spain and the United States.

But in the UK, for 2018, we preferred Jeremiah 29:11: ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’

Manner of speaking

‘Are your father and your mother in?’ asked the vicar when the small boy opened the door.

‘They was in,’ said the youngster. ‘But they is out.’

‘They was in. They is out. Where’s your grammar, young man?’

‘She’s gone upstairs, for a nap.’

We received the following letter in January from Grant’s Town Wesley Methodist Church in The Bahamas, thanking Winchester Road for sending over our old blue hymn books. Janet Dawe has responded sending best wishes from Winchester Road.

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ!

I warmly greet you from The Bahamas at the beginning of this New Year, and extend to you best wishes and prayers for a healthy, productive and happy 2019!

On behalf of the entire congregation of the Grant’s Town Wesley Methodist Church here in Nassau, The Bahamas, I express profound thanks and appreciation to you for your donation of a quantity of ‘Hymns & Psalms’ hymnals – the word only edition as well as the words and music edition. Our church was in dire need of replacing our well used hymnals, so your gift could not have come at a better time. The hymnals were received in good time with no shipping or Customs issues. We are grateful to our faithful congregant Sister Ruth Major for initiating the process, and to Brother Jerome Swan, our Congregational Board Chairperson, who coordinated the effort our end. Be assured that the hymnals will go a long way in helping to encourage the faith of all who use them as they read, sing and live out the hymns of the Church.

This new year is an important year for Grant’s Town Wesley. We celebrate our 180th year as an historic faith community, and with the theme “All One in Christ: One Faith, One Family, One Mission”, we are thankful to God for the many ways He has used this church in the past. We are also mindful that there is more work that God has for us to do. Of course, we are grateful too for the many friends that Grant’s Town Wesley has made over the years, and we are so privileged to now include you as our Friends.

Again, accept our gratitude for your kindness in sharing the hymnals with us. In due course, we will email a photo of the congregation making use of the hymnals.

We pray that God will continue to bless you!

Sincerely,

Rev. Lester T. Ferguson

Minister

Do you have some free time?

Have you thought about volunteering?

Volunteering opportunities are given here.

People can find themselves feeling lonely for lots of different reasons; maybe age or illness means it’s harder for them to get out and about or their family and friends have moved away and lost contact. It’s at this point in life when having a visitor, meeting to go for a short walk or simply having a chat over a cup of tea can make the world of difference to someone’s life.

There are a surprising number of older people who are experiencing loneliness and isolation right now in our borough. The Befriending Service run by Age UK Waltham Forest is helping to address this by sending out volunteers to visit people aged over 60 and who live alone.

There is currently a waiting list to have a volunteer visitor. If you are someone who likes to listen and talk to others and have around 1 hour per week available, then Age UK Waltham Forest would love to hear from you. They are looking for people of all ages to come and be part of their Befriending team.

Contact Terry info@ageukwalthamforest.org.uk or 0208 558 5512

Age UK Waltham Forest works across Highams Park, Chingford, Walthamstow, Leyton and Leytonstone and is an independent local charity supporting older people. We are a separate charity to Age UK National and therefore have to raise our own funds to work in Waltham Forest. Our main office is in South Chingford, 58 Hall Lane, E4 8EU.

Thank you for your support.

CARE HIGHAMS PARK

Could you spare an hour occasionally to be a good neighbour?

Will you help us create a more caring community?

We need volunteers to answer the phone, collect prescriptions and shopping, provide transport, visit lonely people or offer support in a crisis.

As a volunteer you would be making a big difference to those in need, but only when it is convenient to you.

If you feel you could help please phone 020 8523 5955.

Set up over 20 years ago, Care Highams Park continues to support local residents on a daily basis. Since the closure of ‘Help on Call’ in Chingford, Care also supports clients in North Chingford. In addition, Care provides monthly Sunday lunches and the ever popular Christmas Inn on Christmas Day at Winchester Road. Care urgently needs new volunteers for a variety of roles, but especially to answer the phone, which is transferred to your home phone or mobile for a day on a rota basis.

If you feel able to help, please speak to Mary Burgoine, Mary-Rose French, Janet Dawe or Jan Dent or ring the Care number.

On 17th December last year, a group of musicians and singers participated in the Carol Singing at Highams Park Station to raise money for Action for Children.

Mary Burgoine received the following letter from them in January:

Thank You!

Please pass on our sincere thanks to everyone involved in raising the recent donation of £106.50. We were delighted to hear about your Christmas fundraising efforts and we hope everyone from the Church that took part had fun in the process of making such a wonderful and much needed gift.

‘Go not only to those who need you, but to those who need you most’

John Wesley

Action for Children’s ethos is deeply rooted in Methodist principles, and for over 145 years we have worked together helping vulnerable children to reach their full potential.

Thank you, it really does inspire us to hear about your Fundraising, and to know that working together we are still able to touch so many lives, as we continue helping more than 390,000 children, young people, parents and carers each year through over 650 services across the U.K.

With kind regards, and our heartfelt gratitude to all our friends at the Church.

J.Walker

Supporter Care Fundraiser

It was great to see so many of our Young Church taking part in the Nativity Service before Christmas. For those able to come on Christmas Eve, the ‘Pop-up-Nativity’ was a lovely way to start Christmas.

We are now looking forward to a new year and hope to see you all on a Sunday morning.

Here is some information about the next few weeks

In Young Church we will be looking at ways we can follow God’s plans and use our many talents in our everyday lives. We will start in church, unless there is communion, and then go out to our groups. As usual there will be biscuits, games, craft, discussion and FUN.

There are also some ‘special dates’:

Sunday 10th February will be a Family Service, led by our own minister, Rev. Hilary Cheng.

Sunday 10th March is the ‘Uniformed Organisations Anniversary’ led by David Hobbs. This will be a Parade Service and will include all the groups that meet on our premises as well as giving an opportunity for everyone, adults as well, to renew their promises.

Biscuit Club: On Sunday 30th March we are doing Coffee Corner – Help please!

There are also some exciting events for Biscuit Club and others coming up so-

Watch this space!

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday!

Tee Hee

A guy is getting ready to take his girlfriend out to a fancy Valentine’s Day shindig. It’s going to be a super swanky do, so he goes out to rent a tuxedo. There’s a long tuxedo line at the shop and it takes forever to get a suit, but it worth it because the suit is fabulous.

He decides he wants to get some flowers next so he heads over to the florist. There’s a huge flower line there too, because it’s Valentine’s day so everyone and their mother is out buying flowers, but he waits his turn and eventually gets a bunch of red and yellow roses; They look lovely.

He meets his girlfriend at the train station and tries to hail a taxi to the venue. There’s a long taxi line, as everybody seems to be heading for a night on the tiles tonight, but eventually they get one and manage to arrive at the venue.

The evening is everything he’d hoped and more. Music, dancing, a stand-up comedian and a wonderful menu. The two dance the night away, and he’s having a wonderful time hanging out with his girlfriend.

When the song is over she asks him if he can get her some punch so he heads over to the drinks table, and there’s no punchline.

JANUARY 2019 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

A Happy New Year to you all.

So, 2019 has arrived, and with it a new year, a fresh start, an opportunity to look forward to what lies ahead. But beneath the celebration of a new year, 2019 is also a year in which Britain faces big changes. None of us can be certain about the future with Brexit, nor of what is going to happen. There are those who speak of falling house prices, but rising inflation, the value of the pound continuing to fall and less spending on the High Street. It is a difficult time for everyone, as the future looks so unpredictable. Even those making decisions on our behalf are not clear about how things are going to work out.

Two thousand and twenty years ago, Jesus was born. The world was a very uncertain place. Israel was under occupation by the Romans, and Emperor Augustus ordered a census. If you will excuse the pun, life was very ‘unstable’ for a lot of people, including Jesus’ family, with Mary and Joseph. After Jesus was born, King Herod ordered the killing of all baby boys under the age of two. Fortunately, Joseph had a dream and was warned to escape to Egypt with Mary and the baby Jesus. And that is where they stayed until King Herod had died, and there was no longer a threat to their wellbeing. Then they returned to Nazareth. God had everything planned.

We may not know what is going to happen this year, whether it is Brexit, or one of the many joys or challenges that life gives us. But of one thing we can be sure, and that is that our changeless God will be just that, he will continue to watch over his people. There may be difficulties on the road ahead, but then Mary and Joseph faced many difficult encounters in their life with Jesus, not just becoming refugees in a foreign land.

But God stayed with them, and watched over them, protected them from harm and offered a way forward, which was not what they had planned. And God will stay with us too. The journey may have bumps and potholes, but we will not be alone, and God will not abandon us. It can be difficult to trust when we cannot see the way ahead, but we can bring our ‘hopes and fears’ to the One who loves us and wants the best for us. The future may not be what we thought right or best, but God, who has seen us through many other tragic or difficult situations, will walk with us through the coming year.

In January, in our churches, we share in the Covenant Service, a service of commitment that we will serve God afresh in the coming year. God’s response to us is profound, that he will lead us and guide us, come what may. He will always love us, no matter what we do. Can there be a better way to start 2019 than to know that we are deeply cherished by a loving parent?

With warm wishes for 2019,

Hilary

Prayer

Dear Lord, through your transforming power:

may our doubt and uncertainty become a faith that is strong;

may our ignorance change into a knowledge and understanding of your word;

may our joy at knowing you spill out into a life of witness and praise;

and may our labour for Christ hep to build your kingdom on earth.

Amen.

Greg Sargent, local preacher, West Norfolk Circuit.

From The Methodist Church Prayer Handbook 2018/19.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

(A WOMEN LED, GLOBAL, ECUMENICAL MOVEMENT)

Come – Everything is Ready!

Our local service is being held on Friday 1st March, at Highams Park Baptist Church, Cavendish Road,

Highams Park, E4 9NG, 10.30am – 11.30am.

Mary Burgoine

Covenant Service: Sunday 6th January, 10.30am

All are welcome here at Winchester Road as we celebrate a very special Sunday in the Methodist year, Covenant Sunday.

At the start of the new year Methodists make a distinctive resolution and hold an annual Covenant Service, at which we celebrate all that God has done for us, and affirm that we give our lives and choices to God.

The New Testament suggests that as we join the group of those seeking to follow the way of Jesus, we respond to God’s challenge with him and begin to share his relationship with God as Father. Within the group of disciples, this leads to his Spirit bubbling up in us as individuals, encouraging and enabling us to live out our side of the relationship (i.e. “writing God’s ways on our hearts” as Jeremiah 31 describes the Covenant).

The traditional Covenant prayer (shown below) makes it very clear that this affirmation is a serious one that embraces the whole of our life, in all its parts.

You will be welcome, whether you are sharing in a Covenant Service for the first time, have done it annually for many years, or simply want to watch what others do without taking part yourself.

Methodist Covenant Prayer

I am no longer my own but yours.

Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will;

put me to doing, put me to suffering;

let me be employed for you, or laid aside for you,

exalted for you, or brought low for you;

let me be full, let me be empty,

let me have all things, let me have nothing:

I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things

to your pleasure and disposal.

And now, glorious and blessèd God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,

you are mine and I am yours.

And the covenant now made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven.

Amen.

From the Methodist Worship Book

Do this in remembrance of me…

Enjoying a meal in the company of family and friends is one of the pleasures of life, especially at weddings, christenings and birthdays and also particular seasons such as Christmas. At Winchester Road on Christmas day over seventy people who would have been alone at Christmas gathered to enjoy a meal, entertainment and fellowship. In the USA, the fourth Thursday of November is the Thanksgiving Holiday which commemorates the safe arrival of settlers in America in 1619 and the good harvest of 1622 where it is celebrated with a special meal. In Britain, besides holding a Harvest Festival Service, some churches gather for a Harvest Supper to give thanks and enjoy a meal together.

After sunset on Fridays Orthodox Jewish families hold the first of three meals which mark the Sabbath, the day of rest, when work and the cares of daily life are put aside and they concentrate on their spiritual life. The most important Jewish festival is Passover which recalls the last meal before the Israelites were led out of captivity in Egypt by Moses. (Exodus Ch 12.) Unleavened bread made without yeast is eaten and symbolic foods displayed on the ‘seder plate’, shown in the photograph, are served. These foods make reference to the captivity and include, bitter herbs, a paste of fruit and of nuts to recall the mortar which the Israelites made during their slavery, a bone to remind diners of an animal given as a sacrifice, an egg as the symbol of a new life.

On the night before his crucifixion Jesus met with his disciples to celebrate Passover, an event described in the gospels ( Matt Ch 26, Mark Ch 14, Luke Ch 22 ) we find the familiar words of our Holy Communion service in Paul’s letter to the Church at Corinth; the Lord Jesus on the night he was betrayed, took a piece of bread, gave thanks to God, broke it and said, “this is my body, which is for you. Do this in memory of me of me. In the same way, after supper, he took the cup and said this is God’s new covenant , sealed with my blood, whenever you drink it , do so in memory of me. (I Cor 11 v 23-25). , Paul also wrote because there is one loaf of bread, all of us, though we are many, are one body for we all share the one loaf. (I Cor 10 v17). In the Methodist Service Book we find the words ‘In sharing the bread and wine in memory of Jesus we celebrate all that Christ has done for us (Christmas Epiphany Communion Service Book page 138).

In the Methodist Church we follow two ways of sharing in the communion coming forward to a communion rail where people kneel in groups to receive the bread and wine or alternatively the elements are brought round to a seated congregation who all eat and drink together. In Roman Catholic and Anglican Churches wine is offered to communicants from a single cup (chalice) but Methodist Churches normally use individual glasses. Not every church uses humble plastic or glass cups for the wine, the photo below shows a silver plated set previously used by a church in the Hackney Circuit that has recently come into the possession of the Museum of Methodism.

A Communion Service conducted by an ordained minister should be held every month in Methodist churches which is open to all people who acknowledge Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. Recently there have been articles and correspondence in the Methodist Recorder newspaper concerning the shortage of ministers and a proposal to allow lay people to lead this service.

In the early church alongside Holy Communion/Lords Supper a second sharing meal developed called the Love Feast (Agape) which could be led by a lay person. It surfaced again during the reformation among some of the emerging Protestant Churches including the Moravian Brethren. John Wesley on his mission to the settlers of Georgia in America was influenced by the quiet piety of a band of Moravians with whom he sailed. Early Methodists (especially the Primitive Methodists in Britain) faced with the shortage of ordained ministers took up the Love Feast which was restricted to church members. It is still used by some United Methodist Churches in the USA.

With the people usually sitting round a table the Love Feast service began with a hymn and prayers, probably including a prayer written by an early Methodist John Cennick who is buried in the Moravian Cemetery in Chelsea,

Be present at our table, Lord;

Be here and everywhere adored;

Thy creatures bless and grant that we

May feast in Paradise with Thee.

These words can be found on a tea pot in John Wesley’s City road house and can also be sung as a hymn sung to the familiar tune Old Hundredth (All people that on earth do dwell STF1). This was followed by Bible readings and there was the opportunity for spontaneous responses to the readings. Bread or some other food was then passed from person to person, and a collection taken for the poor and sick, both signifying sharing. A double handled ‘Loving Cup’ usually filled with water was then passed from person to person for each to drink. Spontaneous testimonies follow given by people telling what God has done for them in their daily lives. The Feast concluded with Hymns and Choruses and a dismissal blessing.

The photograph below shows some of the Loving Cups displayed at the Museum of Methodism at Wesley’s Chapel.

Allen Steel January 2019

‘Commit to the Lord whatever you do,

and he will establish your plans.’

~Proverbs 16:3

Thank you

Thank you to those who bought Quiz sheets from me. A total of £56 was sent off to St. Paul’s MU Kenyan Street Children Feeding Programme.

The answers sheet can be found pinned on the notice board.

Barbara Chapman

THANK YOU

Thank you to all who the musicians and singers who participated in the Carol Singing on Monday 17th December at Highams Park Station.

We raised £103.50 for Action for Children.

Mary Burgoine

Christmas Inn: 2018

Around 120 guests and helpers enjoyed a lovely Christmas Day at the Christmas Inn, here at Winchester Road.

Congratulations and thanks to Mary-Rose French and to everyone who helped and supported the event in any way.

Mayor: Councillor Sally Littlejohn and Consort: Mr Martin Riches pictured with Rev Hilary Cheng, Mary-Rose and Gillian.

Ken Seaman

We would like to thank everyone at ‘Winchester’ for all the care and support that has been given to our family, both before and after Ken’s recent death.

We have been so grateful for your prayers, cards and messages, attendance at his funeral and for providing the lovely refreshments afterwards.

Thank you also for your kind donations in Ken’s memory to WaterAid.

With love and thanks for being there when we needed you,

Shirley, Marion, Mark and Jo

Under new management…

Our thanks to Joan Taylor for all the time and hard work she spent running the church bookstall raising money to support the work of the church, the local community, and abroad through JMA.

We would also like to thank all the people who put

books into the box under the stall for us to sell.

The stall is now being organised by Pam Hayward,

Christine and Allen Steel.

Did you know…

40% of girls in the UK have used toilet roll because they’ve struggled to afford sanitary wear
48% of girls said they believe overusing a sanitary product because they couldn’t afford a fresh one had impacted their health
14% of girls in the UK didn’t know what was happening when they started their period

Believe it or not, here in the UK there are young women that regularly miss school as they cannot afford the sanitary products they need to feel confident to attend school without fear or embarrassment when they have their period. The Red Box Project is a community driven initiative that is taking practical steps to tackle this issue. The Red Box Project quietly ensures that no young woman misses out on her education because of her period. It places constantly stocked Red Boxes of sanitary wear in schools for young women to access, aiming to reach those who may not be able to afford these vital items.

Winchester Road Methodist Church has kindly agreed to allow me to set up a collection point for this project on their premises so that anyone who wants to contribute can do so. It would be great if the members of our Church could get behind this worthwhile cause. If you would like to contribute you can bring donations of sanitary products such as towels, tampons and new underwear and place them in the Red Box placed under the stairs by the Wickham Road entrance. The donated items will be collected on a weekly basis and used to provide local schools with supplies that they girls can access when they are needed. Boxes are already in place at Longshaw School and Frederick Bremner and more will be following soon.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. You can also find out more about the Red Box Project here:

www.redboxproject.org

Thank you for your support,

Debbie Crawford

Guide Leader

2nd Highams Park Guides

Susanna Wesley

Sunday January 20th marks the 350th anniversary of the birth in 1669 of John and Charles Wesley’s remarkable mother Susanna (nee Annesley) born in a house in Spital Square which still survives hemmed in by lofty modern office blocks. She was strong minded and organised bringing up a large family at Epworth in remote north Lincolnshire where her husband was the Rector. She devised a rota to spend time with each child teaching them to read. She ensured that her daughters received as good an education as the boys at a time when girls were usually only trained in domestic skills. At one time when her husband Samuel, who had a quick temper, left home after an argument, leaving the parish in the charge of a dull curate, Susanna held prayers and readings in the vicarage kitchen. She found time each evening to meditate and write out her thoughts including the prayer…

‘Help me, Lord, to remember that religion is not to be confined to the Church, nor exercised only in prayer and meditation, but that everywhere I am in Thy presence. So may my every word and action have a moral content.’

Her influence on John and Charles has led some writers to refer to her as the ‘Mother of Methodism’. She died at the age of 73 at John Wesley’s Foundery Chapel and was buried in the dissenters cemetery of Bun Hill Fields on City Road.

The money donated in lieu of postage for the Christmas Card Postbox

came to a total of £150 that I have sent off to Action for Children.

Jean Norton, Treasurer

Young Church Nativity: 16th December 2018

At the Sunday morning service before Christmas the Young Church put on their usual excellent Nativity. There was a full turnout of the youngsters from all ages.

The older children acted as narrators and the younger ones acted out the scenes. As well as Mary and Joseph there were shepherds, angels, wise men and a very intelligent donkey.

The Young Church also sang the donkey’s song which was much appreciated.

Thanks are due to all the Young Church staff but above all to all the Young Church who performed so ably.

Lindy and Peter Richardson

Pop-Up Nativity: Christmas Eve 2018

The first family arrived well before 4pm and were soon joined by others. The children enjoyed colouring crowns, with pictures of the ‘Kings’ and other nativity scenes, as well as decorating sheep with tissue papers. The adults seemed to be enjoying the hot, mulled fruit cocktail and home-made biscuits.

By 4.30pm the Hub was full of excited children and adults. There were many families from the local area. Maureen started the story with an empty wooden stable and the children quickly joined in, finding and unwrapping the numbered boxes to reveal the characters in the story, as we all joined in singing the familiar Christmas songs. The girls were keen to wear a tinsel headband to be an angel, and the walking sticks were quickly used as crooks for the shepherds. Lindy, as usual, had a range of costumes and headdresses for those wanting them. As the story came to its end and the Kings were found, along with a camel or two, and added to the scene, we all went into the church.

Rachel talked about things we could offer to Jesus today and the children were keen to add their ideas, which were all written on gift cards and laid by the manger. Everyone had a small tea light which provided a lovely glow in the church, as we sang our final carol, Silent Night.

Everybody seemed to have enjoyed the experience and everyone left with some excited children waiting for what Christmas Day may bring. They had had plenty of practice in unwrapping hoped-for gifts!

Many thanks to Rachel and Maureen for planning and leading the event as well as to all those who helped make it so successful.

Jan Dent

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

At least once a year, Christians are reminded of Jesus’ prayer for his disciples that “they may be one so that the world may believe” (see John 17.21). Hearts are touched and Christians come together to pray for their unity. Congregations and parishes all over the world exchange preachers or arrange special ecumenical celebrations and prayer services. The event that touches off this special experience is the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

Traditionally the week of prayer is celebrated from 18-25 January, between the feasts of St Peter and St Paul, although in the southern hemisphere, where this is a period of summer vacation, other dates may be chosen.

Resources for the 2019 Week of Prayer have been prepared by Christians from Indonesia, the largest country in South East Asia, made up of more than 17,000 islands, 1,340 different ethnic groups and over 740 local languages, united by one national language Bahasa Indonesia. With some 86% of its 260 million people estimated to be Muslim, it has the largest Islamic population of any country. About 10% of Indonesians are Christian. Indonesians have lived by the principle of gotong royong which is to live in ‘solidarity and by collaboration’, regarding all Indonesians as brothers and sisters.

But gotong royong sits ill at ease with the neo-liberal approach to economics that has led to economic growth, and corruption infecting politics and business, often with devastating effects on the environment. Meanwhile those who are supposed to promote justice and protect the weak fail to do so. As a consequence, a country rich in resources bears the burden of many people living in poverty. Particular ethnic and religious groups are often associated with wealth in ways that have fed tensions.

The Christians of Indonesia found that the words of Deuteronomy, ‘Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue…'(see Deut. 16:18-20) spoke powerfully to their situation.

The following is reprinted from April 2018’s newsletter where Jan Dent wrote about attending the 2018 Week of Prayer services…

Since retiring I have become aware of a number of events that I previously ignored as they mostly took place during the day. The following is one such activity which I had heard about but never had a chance to properly take part: Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

The Churches of the Caribbean were chosen to draft the material for the 2018 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.One of the main themes for 2018 was; “That all may be free”.

The themes of the daily material raised some of the contemporary issues addressed by the churches of the Caribbean. Abuses of human rights are found across the region and we are challenged to consider our manner of welcoming of the stranger into our midst. Human trafficking and modern-day slavery continue to be huge issues. Addiction to pornography and drugs, continue to be serious challenges to all societies. The debt crisis has a negative impact upon the nations and upon individuals – the economies of the nations and people have become precarious. Family life continues to be challenged by the economic restrictions which lead to migration, domestic abuse and violence.

Since the closure of the URC church in Malvern Avenue, there are only three churches in Highams Park, so meetings were planned for three days.

Cavendish Road Baptist have a weekly prayer meeting so others were invited to join them. In actual fact the only ‘others’ were myself and a member from the Catholic Church. We looked mainly at ‘welcoming the stranger’ although in the course of our discussion also talked about trafficking and modern-day slavery. It was a chance to stop and consider issues within our own community and beyond. People shared many experiences and ideas and we sang a few songs. We ended with prayers for several people known to those present.

The next day was a short service in our own church, led by Hilary. The focus was very much on ‘freedom’ and the many things that prevent people being free; money, slavery; war; lack of food and water. Again, we were able to have a good discussion and ended with prayers for those known to us as well as those across the world. One member of the Baptist Church was able to join us on this occasion.

The third morning we were invited to join the congregation at All Saints. They regularly hold a communion service every Wednesday morning. The theme of Steve Clarke’s talk was about the fact that we are all Christians even though we worship God in our many different ways. This was far more formal, but it was privilege for Hazel and I to be able to join them for communion. We did appear to be the only ones from another church.

The three sessions were all completely different but all in their own way inspiring. Apart from anything else it was a chance to stop, think and pray in the company of others. It is a shame that more people from our own church and the other churches in the area were not able to share in this week (or even 3 days) of prayer.

Jan Dent

Tee Hee

I had a job as an undertaker – dead end job.

… as a mathematician – just couldn’t work it out.

… looking after people’s dogs – it’s a walk in the park.

… making coffins – they’re to die for.

… making a TV series about flying aircraft. It’s a pilot series.

… making mirrors. I could see myself doing it.

… mending violins. It’s very fiddly.

I stayed up all night last night wondering where the sun had gone.

Then it dawned on me.

The other day I taught my dog how to play the trumpet on the tube.

He went from barking to tooting in 10 minutes.

NOVEMBER 2018 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

2018 marks the one hundredth anniversary since the end of the First World War. The War came to an end on the 11^th November 1918 at 11am. Germany surrendered and documents were signed at a secret location north of Paris. Britain, France and Germany signed the Armistice, an agreement to stop fighting. Six months later, the Treaty of Versailles was signed stating that there would be peace between these three nations.

Wars cause a great deal of distress, heartache, destruction and loss of life. Countries are impoverished, and once the fighting is over, rebuilding needs to be done, always at considerable cost. Sadly, there are many wars raging in our world today. Finding a solution in which all sides can agree is challenging and difficult.

We owe so much to those who fought in both World Wars, so that we can enjoy the freedom we have today. We can all play a part in keeping that peace by being mindful of the issues that can cause friction within society.

One of the greatest gifts Jesus gave to his disciples was the gift of Peace. This gift doesn’t just mean the absence of war. It is the knowledge of the presence of God with us in each and every situation, regardless of the mayhem that may encircle us. Jesus spoke about peace in his Sermon on the Mount.

Sometimes, within our church services, we offer each other a sign of the peace. It identifies us as peacemakers and of our desire to live with one another in harmony.

Next time we share the Peace in a service, as you give and receive this special gift, remember that it comes from Jesus, who longs for us to be at peace with the world, with one another as well as with ourselves.

Yours peacefully,

Hilary

2018 Dates for your diary

All events held here at Winchester Road unless stated otherwise

Sat 17^th November: Local Preachers and Worship Leaders’ Study Day, Circuit Mission Outreach Centre, Clockhouse Lane, Collier Row, RM5 3QP, 9:30am-1pm (For further info/to book, please contact Debby Freeman on 01708 75162 or debbyjfreeman@hotmail.com)

Sun 18^th November: JMA; Christmas Shoebox service; Church Parade

Fri 23^rd November: Bazaar prep, 9-11am

Sat 24^th November: Christmas Bazaar, 10am-3.30pm (3.30-5.30pm-ish clear up)

Sun 25^th November: Going forward Sacrament of Holy Communion

Mon 3^rd December: Church Outreach Meeting, 7.30pm

Sun 9^th December: A Celebration of Janice’s Service to Guiding, 12.30-3pm

Sun 9^th December: Bereavement Service, All Saints, Church Ave, Highams Park, E4 9QD, 3pm

Sun 16^th December: Young Church Nativity, 10.30am

Mon 17^th December: Carol Singing, Highams Park Station, 5.30-6.30pm

Sun 23^rd December: Carol Service, 4pm

Mon 24^th December: Pop-Up Nativity (family-friendly interactive nativity), 4pm for 4.30pm start

Every Monday: Prayer Walk, 7-7.45am, meeting place varies, see the Church notice sheet for up to date locations

First & Third Wednesday of each month: Open Fellowship, 2.30-4pm

Every Friday during term time: Coffee Morning, 10am-12noon, to support Action for Kids

The Big Ideas Tea Party which was due to be held on 10^th November has now been postponed. Any ideas can be given to Rachel Lampard, Laura Pease, Jan Dent or one of the stewards.

Macmillan Coffee Morning, held 28^th September

Thank you to all who came along, helped on the day or made cakes. We raised £237.

WINCHESTER ROAD CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

SATURDAY 24 NOVEMBER 2018

Thank you to everyone who has already been donating items, or offered cakes or support in any way – it is very much appreciated.

If you have items to donate then I can collect them at church on Sundays, or come at see me at Brownies on Mondays (6.00 – 7.30). If you have any large items then it would be appreciated if you could save them for bazaar week – that would be a great help.

Bric-a-brac	Please bring items to the church or contact Sarah Hayward on 020 8527 7778 for collection.
Second Hand Toys	Please bring items to the church or contact Sarah Hayward on 020 8527 7778 for collection.
DVDs, CDs, Computer games	Please bring these to church
Desserts & Cakes	Please see Mary French & Sarah Hayward with details of anything you are prepared to make or donate for the refreshments or cake stalls.
New and Nearly New Items	We will be running a ‘Christmas Gifts’ stall again this year. Please bring any items to the church.
Jewellery	Please give any second hand jewellery to Alex Fletcher – the sooner the better please as it takes a while to prepare.
Books	If you have books to donate then we would appreciate these coming down to the church in the weeks ahead of the bazaar to allow time for sorting.
Friday 23^rd November 9am till 11am	We need a couple of able bodied people to help move all of the items downstairs to the stalls.
Saturday 24^th November 10am till 3.30pm	We have a rota for 12 of our bazaar stalls and these stalls are reliant on people signing up to this rota. If you are able to help in any way (usually 1 hour blocks) then please contact me.
Saturday 24^th November at 3.30pm	Help to take down tables, move items upstairs and generally clear up for approximately 2 hours.

Sarah Hayward 07779 109 727 sarahhayward78@hotmail.co.uk

CONGRATULATIONS

Jess Clarke and Aaron Browne were married on the 1^st September at High House Weddings in Essex. Jess is Dorothy Clarke’s eldest granddaughter.

We wish them all the best in their married lives

‘We will remember them.’ (Laurence Binyon)

In 2014 at the start of the commemoration of the Great War, I wrote an article in Winchester News about Poppies including the poem

In Flanders field the poppies blow,

between the crosses row on row

which inspired the wearing of poppies in remembrance and the filling of the moat of the Tower of London with ceramic poppies. The author of the poem ‘Lieutenant-Colonel’, John McCrae, was a doctor in the Canadian Army who led the medical teams at a military hospital near Boulogne. Worn out by his work he died in January 1918 from a combination of pneumonia and cerebral meningitis. This year as usual we drove into France on holiday with plans to visit the grave of John McCrae at the seaside town of Wimereux and also Vimy Ridge near Lens where soldiers of the Canadian Army fought and died. At Vimy the wooded slopes are pock-marked by craters, and they have restored trenches and built a Great War Museum. McCrae’s poem is boldly painted on the wall of the modern museum whose tall windows overlook the battlefield. The crest of the hill is capped by a thirty metre high memorial with two pylons capped with a Maple Leaf for Canada and a Fleur de Lys for France on which are inscribed the names of over eleven thousand men who are listed as ‘missing’.

At Wimereux in the Great War section of the town cemetery the graves lie flat because the sandy soil will not allow then to stand upright. We found McCrae’s grave and then read the names and inscriptions on many of the other graves. This led me to find out more about the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) who do a fine job caring for the graves, tending the grass and flowers. All over northern France there are war cemeteries large and small with rows of pure white Portland stone headstones. There are over 400,000 graves maintained by the CWGC in addition to 315,000 soldiers named on memorials who have no known graves.

Laws forbade families repatriating the bodies of their relatives and they had to accept the simple Portland stone headstone for the graves and there was to be no difference between the headstone of ordinary soldiers and officers. Each one usually has a regimental badge, the name and rank of the person, often the age, a cross or other religious symbol. Families were given the opportunity to add an epitaph limited to a maximum of 66 letters and initially had to pay for each letter but this was quickly dropped. One writer describes them as the voice ‘that speaks of love, sorrow, pride, grief and despair, quoting the Bible, literature, hymns and popular songs, and it tells us something about the dead, who they were, where they lived…’ .

Over the years we have seen many of these beautifully kept cemeteries and have on occasion stopped to read the inscriptions. To me among the most moving stones is the simple message A Soldier of the Great War known to God, words written by Rudyard Kipling whose son was killed in the war and like many has no known grave. Some stones sadly record the age of the soldier, young men in their teens and early twenties robbed of their lives by war. Many of the graves bear patriotic inscriptions including one which quotes a line from the ancient Greek writer Horace beginning… Dulce et decorum est usually translated as ‘It is sweet and proper to die for ones country’. (If you have not read Wilfred Owen’s poem with this title which exposes the lie of the glory of war I suggest that you ‘google it up’.)

The epitaphs below were copied from graves in the cemetery at Wimereux… Private Tuffs who died for King and country ever remembered by his wife and sons…, To have done your duty there is no greater crown….One of the unreturning brave silently sleeps in a soldiers grave. Some families chose Biblical quotations such as ‘Greater Love hath no man than a man laid down his life for his friends (Jn 15 v13) … He that looseth his life for my sake shall find it. (Matt 10 v 39) and Lo I am with you always even unto the end of the world (the last verse of Matthew’s Gospel Matt 28 v20).

Some chose a prayer Saviour into thy gracious keeping leave we now thy servant sleeping or words of hope Through the gate of death he passed to a joyful resurrection. and Make him to be numbered with thy saints in glory everlasting. Others have echoes of hymns God be with you till we meet again (H&P 651) ….when the roll is called up yonder he will be there…

The most moving and the most common were those where families speak from the heart, In memory of my dear son aged 21 Duty bravely done…..You are loved in death as you were in life…..in memory of my only brother…..In loving memory from your wife and children……In memory of my dear brother from James Maggie and baby…..To know him was to love him…..you are loved in death as you were in life.

One of the most poignant inscriptions can be found in the Military Cemetery at Foncquevillers near Arras Will some kind hand in a foreign land place a flower on my son’s grave.

Allen Steel November 2018

Thank you

I would like to say thank you to the members and friends at Winchester Road for the Harvest Gifts you kindly sent me.

I often think of you on Sunday mornings as you begin your services, and enjoy hearing news of what is happening at Winchester.

Doris Jackson

Donations made between 1 September 2017 to 31 August 2018

I have detailed on the following page the donations made by the Church during the last financial year.

There has been an overall increase of £732.45 on the previous year.

Jean Norton – Treasurer

Beneficiary	Specific collections/ donations rec’d	Additional donations from Internal Funds	Total paid to organisation
MHA	£ 146.20	£ 460.00	£ 606.20
JMA	£ 2,065.37		£ 2,065.37
Crest	£ 45.00	£ 570.00	£ 615.00
The Branches		£ 205.00	£ 205.00
Christian Aid	£ 479.35		£ 479.35
Woodlands	£ 88.75		£ 88.75
T4U	£ 328.03	£ 1.97	£ 330.00
Home Missions		£ 350.00	£ 350.00
MAP		£ 510.00	£ 510.00
BHF	£ 820.00		£ 820.00
Parkinson’s	£ 443.28		£ 443.28
CTIHP	£ 94.50		£ 94.50
Circuit		£ 520.00	£ 520.00
Haven House	£ 45.00		£ 45.00
World Missions	£ 172.50	£ 820.00	£ 992.50
WFYFC		£ 205.00	£ 205.00
Conservation Volunteers	£ 125.30		£ 125.30
LPMA		£ 205.00	£ 205.00
All We Can		£ 600.00	£ 600.00
Circuit ministers
Mercy ships		£ 365.00	£ 365.00
Olives	£ 291.60		£ 291.60
Macmillan/Marie Curie	£ 777.00	£ 28.00	£ 805.00
3 Gen	£ 100.00	£ 175.00	£ 275.00
Amnesty	£ 46.11		£ 46.11
Sept 17 Disasters	£ 601.00	£ 40.00	£ 641.00
Nigeria		£ 190.00	£ 190.00
	£ 6,668.99	£ 5,244.97	£ 11,913.96
Donations to Methodist organisations:			£6,087.35
Donations to non-Methodist organisations:			£5,826.61
			£11,913.96

Kath Warner

Kath was born in 1928 in a small village in South Yorkshire. Her start in life was not easy as her mother died in childbirth and her father felt unable to look after a new baby as well as her 2 year old sister. Due to the problems with the birth she was not expected to live more than a few days but defied all expectations by living until her 90th birthday!

After some time she was finally settled with her mother’s brother and his wife who already had a 10 year old son – he was the one who persuaded them to keep her and bring her up as their own. She had a very happy childhood – money was scarce but there was plenty of love to compensate.

The Second World War broke out when she was 11 and this was to change her life dramatically. A few years after the outbreak of war a young soldier was sent to put smoke screens over the local reservoirs. He was a Methodist but arrived too late for the service at the Methodist chapel so walked up the hill to the Congregational church which started later. Kath’s mother saw him sitting on his own at the back of the church and told her to invite him back for dinner. She did and this soldier was Eric who became a welcome visitor to the family home; so much so that, just before Kath’s 21st birthday, they were married.

Kath then moved ‘down south’ and found the experience daunting to say the least. Her accent was different and the ways of Southerners were very different from those of Northerners – more reserved and less likely to strike up conversations with complete strangers! She soon, however, found her feet and had a reputation for talking to everyone and anybody whether it be at church, in the supermarket queue or at the bus stop.

Maureen and I had a very happy childhood, money was in short supply and Mum did dressmaking and hairdressing night classes so that she could make our clothes and cut our hair and thereby save money. Despite this we were rich in love and laughter – Dad had a wicked sense of humour – and we feel that our upbringing played a large part in making us the people we are today. Many school holidays were spent in Yorkshire and I have great admiration for Mum who managed to get 2 small children – the youngest on reins – plus luggage, across London, on a train to Sheffield then on an hour’s bus journey to her village. The journey on the main line took over 4 hours then but she always had a bag of cheap surprises to keep us occupied and out of mischief.

Mum was described by someone as being a ‘good Christian woman’. She certainly had a very strong faith and was a woman of action – using her gifts and talents to serve others and providing pastoral care and love to so many. She would not have described herself as a ‘good Christian’ however – just someone who wanted to follow in Jesus’s footsteps and try to make the world a better, more equal and more loving place.

Mum’s health has not been good since her 50s when she was diagnosed with osteoporosis which resulted in several broken bones – some minor and some major. Any sudden jolt could set off fracture pain and I don’t think any of us realised just how much pain she had to bear during her lifetime. More recently she developed macular degeneration which was a source of great frustration to her as it meant that her eyesight steadily became worse and in the last 5 years she was unable to sew, knit, paint or read – her main interests in life. Having said that, she was always cheerful and loved having visits from her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Her aim recently was to be able to celebrate her 90th birthday – which we are delighted that she managed to do. She had a lovely weekend with visits from over 60 family and friends. Who was to know that just 3 short weeks later she would be admitted to hospital where it took just 10 days for her to slip peacefully away? We miss her dreadfully but she is now at peace and pain free so we could not wish her back. She lived her life to the full and influenced so many people on the way; right to the end she was more concerned about how her frailty was affecting others rather than how it affected her – this was Mum’s ethos throughout her life and will be a hard legacy to follow.

Janice & Maureen

Traidcraft – decision time

Sylvia and I were distraught to receive a letter from Traidcraft a couple of weeks ago saying that their trading business was to be closed as it was no longer viable. Fair Traders were asked to sell as many products as they could in the run up to Christmas so that producers would benefit from a period of high value sales.

Just as I sat at the PC to write an article appealing to you all to buy everything in sight on the Traidcraft table I received an update. It seems that the huge response to the message about closure has caused the Traidcraft board to think again and to start discussing alternative models – still with an element of downsizing, but without completely closing the trading business. The message on the Traidcraft website says that if a new model can be agreed:

“We’d be back to our pioneering roots, changing the world in ethical ways which mean the most to modern citizens. Traidcraft would continue to operate and you’d continue to shop with us – changing the lives of artisans and growers worldwide”

It isn’t yet clear what this model might be and how stalls like ours might be affected. Further details are promised during November. Traidcraft have undertaken to identify those producers who are most at risk and ensure that they are supported whilst the changes are discussed.

Traidcraft say:

We ask you to keep purchasing from us to invest in this bright future. Our autumn/winter collection is the biggest and most impactful range we’ve ever had. Shop with us, and make a difference.

This church has been a great supporter of Traidcraft over the past 20 years, buying literally thousands of pounds worth of food, jewellery, cards and other goodies. Buying from Traidcraft achieves far more for producers than buying fair trade goods in the supermarkets (though please do that too!). Please think whether you can buy a little more from our stall over the next couple of months so that the business can continue to make that difference.

Laura Pease

Grand Christmas Bazaar

Saturday 24th November

10am to 3.30pm

Wonderful selection of Christmas Fayre

Lunch, Refreshments & Homemade Cakes

Come & visit Father Christmas in his Grotto

Admission 50p, Children Free

Winchester Road Methodist Church

Every One Remembered

The Royal British Legion, in partnership with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, is encouraging people to individually commemorate over one million Commonwealth Service men and women who were killed during the First World War.

The losses were felt in almost every town and village in the UK and throughout, what was then, the British Empire.

You can make your commemoration at www.everyoneremembered.org.

Choose to commemorate someone you know – a relative or person on your local war memorial – or commemorate someone randomly selected for you.

Christmas Bazaar Raffle – Hamper Donations please

As in previous years, I am hoping to create an amazing hamper as our first prize and hope that you will be as generous as you have in previous years and kindly donate luxury items for the hamper.

If you are able and willing to make a donation to the hamper, please call 07702165456 or email me deborah_crawford@hotmail.com so that I can keep a list and ensure that we do not duplicate items.

Donations need to be with me by 11^th November so that I have time to package the hamper but please get in touch as soon as possible so that I know what I can expect to receive.

Thank you for your support.

Debbie

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm

Wed 7^th November: Rev Hilary Cheng: Advent Theme

Wed 21^st November: Kate Poole: Theatre Ghosts

Wed 5^th December: U3A will be singing for us

Wed 19^th December: Party & Quiz

YOUNG CHURCH NEWS

Here is some information about the next few weeks:

Sunday 18^th November: is a parade service and we will be dedicating the shoe boxes and hearing about the JMA collections during the past year. We expect many of you will be involved covering and filling shoe boxes in other groups, but Sylvia Dixon prepares a lot of ‘church’ boxes. She always needs help with covering boxes and providing things to put in the boxes. If you want to be involved speak to Sylvia or one of the Young Church leaders.

We will need someone from Biscuit Club to do the screens during that service.

And of course, don’t forget our Bazaar on Saturday 24^th November!

St Ives Care Home residents Olive Wimble and John Henderson were recently visited by an exhausted new mum – a chocolate brown Labrador and her four sleepy puppies!

The puppies were introduced to all of the residents and raised a lot of smiles. Here is Olive making a fuss of one of the pups.

Prayer

Holy God, come and breathe life.

Renew and revive your Church.

Call us, again and again, into your ways of transforming love and great mercy.

Reform us until we become more like you, for the sake of the world you came to save.

Blow away all within us that is unworthy, enliven all that brings hope and joy, and fill us again with courage and boldness to proclaim the gospel.

Amen.

Helen Cameron, Northampton Methodist District Chair.

From The Methodist Church Prayer Handbook 2018/19.

Tee Hee

A policeman knocked on my door yesterday. He said, “I’ve had reports that your dog’s been chasing a man on a bike.”

“No way,” I replied. “My dog doesn’t have a bike!”

A man was arrested yesterday after falling into a combine harvester while trying to steal it.

He’s due to be bailed tomorrow!!

A thousand dogs were stolen from a pet shop on Saturday. Police say they have no leads…

Someone has broken into our local police station and stolen the toilet!

Right now, the police say they have nothing to go on…

A mime artist has been arrested after breaking his left arm in fight at the local theatre last night.

Police say he still has the right to remain silent!

An entire city has gone missing in Yorkshire!!

Police are looking for Leeds…

I was in court today for stealing a bag, but it only took them three minutes to find me not guilty.

It was a briefcase.

OCTOBER 2018 NEWSLETTER

OUR STEWARDS AND SENIOR STEWARDS

Senior Stewards: Samuel Ebden and Carole Merriman

Stewards: Janet Evans, Gillian Farnfield, Hazel Mathews, Carol and Dumisani Moyo, Pat Ovenden.

‘The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.’

~Deuteronomy 31:8

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

Gift Aid is a scheme that has been around for a number of years. It is a process that enables charities, of which the Methodist Church is one, to reclaim the tax back on a donation made by a UK taxpayer. In effect, this means that for every £1 donation to charity, 25p can be reclaimed by the organisation.

As the church is a charity, we benefit from this scheme. A number of people who make a regular weekly financial commitment to the church already Gift Aid. When several people are able to do this with their weekly giving to the church, the amount of money recuperated is substantial.

Earlier this year, a report was published by the government, stating that £560 million of Gift Aided money goes unclaimed every year. This year, Gift Aid Awareness Day has been introduced for the first time, on 4^th October.

If you would like to know more about Gift Aid, do come and ask me or speak to Jean Norton, our treasurer.

Should you have been unaware of the Gift Aid facility, please do consider Gift Aiding your contribution to the church. It will mean that your money goes further with no extra expense to you.

Thank you for all that you do contribute to the life and welfare of our church. We could not achieve all that we do without your help.

With sincere gratitude,

Hilary

‘Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.’

~Luke 12:22-23

2018 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:

All events held here at Winchester Road unless stated otherwise

First & Third Wednesday of each month: Open Fellowship, 2.30-4pm (see page 10)

Every Friday during term time: Coffee Morning, 10am-12noon, to support Action for Kids

Mon 8^th October: Church Outreach Meeting (Church Growth), 7.30pm

Fri 12^th October: Ladies Pamper Evening, 6.30-9.30pm

Tues 16^th October: Church Council Meeting, 7.15pm for 7.30pm start

Sat 10^th November: Winchester Road Big Ideas Tea Party, 2 – 4 pm (see page 9)

Sat 17^th November: Local Preachers and Worship Leaders’ Study Day,

Circuit Mission Outreach Centre, Clockhouse Lane, Collier Row, RM5 3QP, 9:30am-1pm (For further info/to book, please contact Debby Freeman on 01708 75162 or email debbyjfreeman@hotmail.com)

Sun 18^th November: JMA; Christmas Shoebox service; Church Parade

Sat 24^th November: Christmas Bazaar

Sun 25^th November: Going forward Sacrament of Holy Communion

Mon 3^rd December: Church Outreach Meeting, 7.30pm

Sun 9^th December: A Celebration of Janice’s Service to Guiding, 12.30-3pm (see page 11)

Sun 9^th December: Bereavement Service, All Saints, Church Ave, Highams Park, E4 9QD, 3pm

WINCHESTER ROAD CHRISTMAS BAZAAR: SATURDAY 24^TH NOVEMBER 2018

It’s time to start the countdown to the Christmas Bazaar which this year is being held on the 24^th November. As always, I have a list of the items that we are starting to collect.

Just as important as the physical donations of items are the offers from people to help with the preparation of the building, and the clearing away after the event. I have included the dates and times that we need extra people in the table below.If you have items to donate then I can collect them at church on Sundays, or come and see me at Brownies on Mondays (6 – 7.30pm). If you have any large items then it would be appreciated if you could save them for bazaar week – that would be a great help.

Bric-a-brac	Please bring items to the church or contact Sarah Hayward on 020 8527 7778 for collection.
Second Hand Toys	Please bring items to the church or contact Sarah Hayward on 020 8527 7778 for collection.
DVDs, CDs, Computer games	Please bring these to church
Desserts & Cakes	Please see Mary French & Sarah Hayward with details of anything you are prepared to make or donate for the refreshments or cake stalls.
New and Nearly New Items	We will be running a ‘Christmas Gifts’ stall again this year. Please bring any items to the church.
Jewellery	Please give any second hand jewellery to Alex Fletcher – the sooner the better please as it takes a while to prepare.
Books	If you have books to donate then we would appreciate these coming down to the church in the weeks ahead of the bazaar to allow time for sorting.
Saturday 27^th October at 10am	Please see Sarah if you are able to help with the sorting of the items that have been donated and are stored in various places around the building. The decorations are also going up on this day.
Friday 23^rd November 9am till 11am	We need a couple of able bodied people to help move all of the items downstairs to the stalls.
Saturday 24^th November at 3.30pm	Help to take down tables, move items upstairs and generally clear up for approximately 2 hours.

Sarah Hayward

07779 109 727

sarahhayward78@hotmail.co.uk

One more step…

This September my neighbour’s son, like many rising five year olds, started primary school, while older pupils passed by in smart new uniforms as they moved on to secondary school.

Our service on the first of September included the popular One more step along the way I go by Sydney Carter [Singing The Faith (STF) hymnbook, hymn 476]. He wrote the hymn in 1971 for the end of year service at Southwark Cathedral School. It is not considered by some people to be a ‘real’ hymn because there is no specific reference to the Christian God; Carter allows the young singers to focus on whoever they wish. It is a hymn which can be sung by multicultural, multi religious schools and has the advantage of a bouncing tune written by Carter. The Guardian obituary writer wrote that Carter ‘achieved the remarkable feat of composing two of the five most popular songs sung in assemblies in British schools’. (The other being Lord of the Dance.)

(Verse 2) Round the corners of the world I turn,

more and more about the world I learn;

all the new things that I see

you’ll be looking at along with me;

and its from the old I travel to the new

keep me travelling along with you.

During the 1930’s after gaining a degree at Oxford, Sydney Carter became a teacher, then during the war he joined the Society of Friends Ambulance service and served in the Middle East and Greece. It was after the war he devoted himself to writing the folk songs, poems and lyrics which brought him fame. During his last five years he developed Alzheimer’s disease and was cared for by his wife. He died in 2004 at the age of 88. He had written his own obituary which has echoes of his best known song

Coming and going by the dance I see

That what I am is not part of me.

Dancing is all that I can ever trust,

The dance is all I am, the rest is dust

I will believe my bones and live by what

Will go on dancing when my bones are not.

It was George Whitefield who initiated John Wesley into ‘field preaching’ urging him to take the gospel in the market places and open spaces when church pulpits were denied to him. It was Whitefield who opened schools for the children of the colliers of the Bristol Coalfield. John Wesley followed the lead producing “guidelines for parents on how to educate their children, promoted the creation of Sunday schools, encouraged people to educate girls as well as boys, created orphanages that were noted for their emphasis on learning, and founded not only day schools in Bristol, Newcastle and London but a model boarding school at Kingswood” (quoted from an article on Methodist education by Gary Best, a former headmaster of Kingswood School).

Wesley opened the school 270 years ago in June 1748 preaching on the text ‘Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it’. However I suspect modern secondary school pupils would not like to take their one more step into the boarding school of Wesley’s day. Pupils rose at 4am both winter and summer and spent till 5am in readings, self-examination or meditation and prayer and then on schoolwork until breakfast. Formal school began at 7am when languages were taught (French, Latin, Greek and Hebrew) until 9am, followed by writing until eleven when the children worked (chopping wood, gardening etc) or walked until lunch at 12noon. School began again at 1pm when history, geography, arithmetic logic, physics and music were taught. This lasted until 5pm when an hour was set aside for private prayer followed by a final working session until supper followed by a religious service at 7pm and then bed at 8pm. Wesley dismissed the idea of play with the words ‘We do not allow any time for play on any day. He that plays when he is a child will play when he is a man’.

(I asked my young neighbour this week what he like most about his first school. He answered ‘playtime’!)

In its early years Kingswood educated the children of Wesley’s travelling preachers to ensure they had continuity of educational experience but the intake was widened to include others. In 1851 the school moved from near Bristol to its present site on the outskirts of Bath and is today a coeducational independent school with 950 day and boarding pupils. There are now 65 state funded Methodist schools, mainly primary which are concentrated in the North of England, plus 14 independent schools. Riston Primary School (Blackburn) on its website typically states that it aims to develop, educate and nurture the whole child to his or her potential within the context of Christian beliefs, practice and values. The Methodist Church Strategy for Youth and Children gives its aims as ‘Connecting children and young people with God, the world and each other so they can think as disciples, talk as disciples, and be disciples’.

Allen Steel October 2018

Well done Rachel!

Well done to Rachel Lampard who raised £2,200 for the Methodist charity ‘All We Can’ when she ran The British 10k on 15^th July.

‘All We Can’ say that, as an example, this could provide 22 families in Zimbabwe with access to water powered by a solar pump. Not only is this helpful in the daily lives of these families, but the water is also used to irrigate small gardens with which these families can grow food, and sell at market for a little profit.

Rachel says…

Thank you to everyone at Winchester Road for their support and generous sponsorship!

Congratulations to Honor Dixon, Sylvia’s granddaughter, who danced a solo at Saddlers Well Theatre in the summer as part of the National Youth Ballet Company’s course she attended in Birmingham.

Well done Honor!

SAVE THE DATE!

SATURDAY 10 NOVEMBER, 2-4PM

You are warmly invited to the Winchester Road

Big Ideas Tea Party.

The Church Council has recently set up a Church Growth Group. We now want to hear YOUR ideas about where Winchester Road Methodist Church can be in 10 years time.

There will be tea, cake, discussions, and activities for everyone from 0 to 100 years.

More details will be in the church notices shortly, and if you have any questions please speak to Hilary.

See you there!

Christmas Bazaar Raffle – Hamper Donations please

As in previous years, I am hoping to create an amazing hamper as our first prize and hope that you will be as generous as you have in previous years and kindly donate luxury items for the hamper.

Donations need to be with me by 11^th November so that I have time to package the hamper but please get in touch as soon as possible so that I know what I can expect to receive.

Thank you for your support.

Debbie

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm

Wed 3^rd October: Pat O’Sullivan: Flowers (off with the fairies)

Wed 17^th October: Jennifer Plummer: The Central Line

Wed 7^th November: Rev Hilary Cheng: Advent Theme

Wed 21^st November: Kate Poole: Theatre Ghosts

Action for Children Collecting Boxes

October is here and this is the month to have your ‘Home Collecting Boxes’ opened so the proceeds can be sent off for the work of Action for Children.

Please hand your collecting boxes to me as soon as possible.

I do also have a number of boxes looking for a home!

Thank you.

Mary Burgoine

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

When we’re tempted to feel despondent, when our lives seem dreary or dull, and the world around us looks fragile and forlorn, surprise us with your Spirit.

Challenge us to stop, listen and look again: to see a world transformed by your love, a people bearing your divine image, and a new day, open to all the rich possibilities of your infinite, amazing grace.

Amen

Stephen Wigley, Wales Synod Chair.

From the Methodist Church Prayer Handbook 2017/18.

A Celebration of Janice’s Services to Guiding

After 47 years of service to Girlguiding, Janice will be stepping down as leader of the 2nd Highams Park Guides. She has dedicated countless hours to ensuring that thousands of girls across the decades have been able to embrace the many opportunities that Guiding can offer, and she was rightly recognised this year when she was awarded an MBE. To give thanks for all she has achieved and for her selfless devotion we will be holding a get together for the many friends and members, both past and present, to take part in this celebration.

Sunday 9th December

Winchester Road Methodist Church

12:30pm – 3pm

12.30 – Buffet lunch

13.30 – Campfire sing-a-long

14.30 – Time for Tea, Cake and a Chat

15.00 – Close

RSVP by 31 October 2018

to Jean Norton and please advise any dietary requirements.

tootsnorton@btopenworld.com

13 Evanston Road, Highams Park, London E4 9JS

News from Penny and Phill Borkett

Hello everybody it is good to be in touch and to hear regularly through the Newsletter all that Winchester Road is doing through the life of the church in the community.

This summer has been quite a busy one for us. In preparation for retirement we have both reduced the number of days we are working and this has meant that as a ‘part-time’ minister – if there could ever be such a thing – we no longer needed to live in a manse.

We knew once we moved to Sheffield that we wanted to stay here with its multicultural vibe, arts, restaurants and universities and so we started looking around for a property in early 2018. Very unexpectedly we were drawn to a brand new development in Millhouses which is south of Sheffield city centre. It is on a regular bus route into town, has supermarkets that we can walk to, a Methodist church and good local amenities.

We moved in early July and are loving being there. Due to Penny’s 60^th in August, many friends and relatives have seen the house and we hope to welcome many more people here over the years.

It is also a little nearer for visiting Mary and Hannah and their gorgeous families. If ever you are in Sheffield please come and see us, we would love to see you. Penny’s email address is PennyB41@aol.com.

Love to you all from us both,

Penny and Phill

[Note from the Editor: if you would like to write to Penny and Phil, please contact me for their address.]

Tee Hee

Q, Grandma, how old are you?

A, I forget.

Q, Oh take a look in your knickers. Mine tells me I’m 6 to 7 years old!

Sent in by Mary Burgoine

PRAYER WALKS

A recent initiative from friends at Christ the King has resulted in Prayer Walking locally. We are now doing so in Highams Park.

The group meets at a given point and starts with a prayer. As we go along each street we pray to be guided as to which houses to deliver a card with a prayer on it informing the household that they have been prayed for.

We may give a card to someone we see in the street (although people are often in a hurry to get to work at 7am on a Monday morning).

We regather at the end and usually join together with the Lord’s Prayer and any other concerns we may have. We are usually finished within 45 minutes.

It is good to be able to pray for people who live in our community and ask God’s blessing on them.

Everyone is welcome to join us.

Meet every Monday morning at 7am.

Mon 1^st Oct: Hale End Road from Highams Park Station, Beverley Mews, Beverley Rd, Silverdale Rd, Vincent Rd

Mon 8^th Oct: Hale End Road from Vincent Road – Oakhill, Hollywood Way, Holly Cres, Oakhill Cres, Oak Hill

Mon 17^th & 24^th Oct: TBC

Milk bottle tops – stop collecting

Waitrose have stopped collecting milk bottle tops for charity, so we are no longer collecting these at church.

The London Methodist Luncheon Club

Friday 12^th October sees the start of ‘The London Methodist Luncheon Club’. We meet on the second Friday of the month from October to May (apart from November this year which will be on the third Friday of the month), at the Lancaster Hall Hotel, Craven Terrace, W2 3EL (a short walk from Lancaster Gate station on the Central line). Coffee is available from 11.15am with lunch at 12.10pm. We enjoy a 3 course meal and fellowship with Methodist friends from the London Area. Our President for this year is Ian Murray, (Harrow & Hillingdon circuit).

We have a varied selection of speakers during the course of the session. If you would like more information please speak to Lindy, Carole, Janet or myself – we all are members.

Mary Burgoine

Thank You – from MS Action

We have received a letter of thanks from MS Action who were our nominated charity to receive the money raised from our Friday coffee mornings in 2016-17:

…The money raised was substantial and your congregation, through your determination and steadfastness, raised an impressive £300 for us to put to very good use here at our Centre.

…I know, that from everyone here at MS Action, we all send a great big ‘Thank you’ to the Winchester Road Methodist Church of Highams Park for their support and community spirit.

MS Action provides complementary therapies, exercise, advice and support for people with Multiple Sclerosis and Cerebral Palsy.

MS Action offers therapies specifically designed to meet the needs of people with neurological problems and aims to offer these therapies at the lowest possible cost or free.

The centre is run by people with neurological conditions for people with neurological conditions.

YOUNG CHURCH NEWS

We hope you all enjoyed the summer and have been able to spend time with friends and family. Quite a few Young Church members came to our Holiday Club at the beginning of August and we all had a good time. We were very grateful for some of the older ones who came along to help. Now it is time to start a new school year and this week most of you will have gone back to a new class, or even a new school. On Sunday we hope you will be able to join us, as we also start the new church year.

Here is some information about the next few weeks:

Sunday 28^th October: will also be communion so we will start in our groups at 10.30 that week.

We will need someone from Biscuit Club to do the screens during that service.

And of course, don’t forget our Bazaar on Saturday 24^th November!

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday!

Tee Hee

I became a vegan last week.

It was a huge missed steak.

I cooked a medium rare steak for my sister the other day.

“I like it well done.” She said

“Thanks,” I replied “that means a lot.”

“Waiter, waiter… WHAT is this soup?”

“It’s bean soup, sir.”

“I don’t care what it has been. I want to know what it is NOW!”

Why did the sausage roll?

Because it saw the apple turnover.

Why did the coffee file a police report?

It got mugged.

At least it fared better than that packet of nuts last week, I heard they were assorted!

SEPTEMBER 2018 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

Most if not all of you will be familiar with the story of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter. It was written in book form, then made into an animated short film. Earlier this year, a new film was released telling the story of a family of rabbits who seek to retrieve vegetables from Mr McGregor’s garden.

From a child’s perspective, one wants the furry creatures to succeed in bringing home acquired produce from the garden. Their antics are followed with great enthusiasm as they daringly risk life and limb (or paw!) to gain their trophies.

From a gardener’s perspective, one may be inclined to side with Mr McGregor. After all, the garden belongs to him, and the last thing a gardener wants is rabbits coming and taking the crop. I have a certain amount of sympathy with Mr McGregor, whilst secretly supporting the bunnies!

With the nights drawing in and the days shortening, we are reminded that Autumn brings the celebration of Harvest Festival. It is a time to give thanks for the safe gathering in of the harvest, knowing that there will be food for the coming winter.

Other countries are not so fortunate as we are in Britain. We have seen the results of tremendous flooding across parts of our world this summer, whilst we have had a very hot season with very little rain. Flooding causes loss of life, people are made homeless and the harvest can be ruined and lost as a result.

As we watch the stories unfolding on the News, take a moment to think how you would feel if you were to lose your home due to severe flooding.

As Harvest time approaches, thank God for all that we have, that we have more than enough to give us a healthy and happy lifestyle. Remember those in difficult circumstances, who have worked hard (like Mr McGregor), only to see their efforts thwarted.

Knowing how much we have been blessed, let each of us be generous in what we give this Harvest time. It may be that this can be done through buying non-perishable food items that can be given to our Harvest Festival Service and then delivered to local night shelters and foodbanks. It could be that your gift is a financial one, which will enable someone in another part of the world to recover from devastating weather conditions, or to plant new crops in anticipation of a harvest in the months to come.

However you choose to give, do so with a generous spirit, conscious that Harvest is a time of sharing what God has given to us in abundance, with others.

Enjoy the Autumn,

Hilary

Prayer

We bless you,

God of Seed and Harvest

And we bless each other

That the beauty of this world

And the love that created it

Might be expressed though our lives

And be a blessing to others

Now and always

Amen

www.faithandworship.com

Dates for your diary:

First & Third Wednesday of each month: Open Fellowship, 2.30-4pm

Every Friday during term time: Coffee Morning, 10am-12noon, to support local Parkinson’s Group

Sat 1st & Sun 2nd September: Kath’s 90th birthday celebration

Sun 9th September: CTHP Summer Picnic, Highams Park Lake, 1-5pm

Mon 10th September: Outreach Committee, 7.30pm for 7.45pm start

Fri 28th September: Special Coffee Morning to support Macmillan Cancer Support charity, 10am-12noon

Sun 30th September: Harvest Service & Church Parade

Tues 16th October: Church Council Meeting, 7.15pm for 7.30pm start

Sat 24th November: Christmas Bazaar

Harvest Service and Church Parade

Our Harvest service and Church Parade will be held on Sunday 30th September at 10.30am.

There will be an opportunity to donate packets/tins of food during the service.

‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.’

~Galatians 6:9

Thank you

I have done my sponsored mile for Parkinson’s UK. I went with my friend Dot and her granddaughter Sidney (aged 6) as The Generation Gap. It was a lovely Saturday morning in July and we thoroughly enjoyed the walk in the beautiful Greenwich Park. So far we have raised £730 and I would like to say a big thank you to all those who sponsored us so generously.

Joyce Roden

Christmas Bazaar Raffle – Hamper Donations please

I know, it is only September but I am getting my Christmas head on and am starting to sort out prizes for this year’s Bazaar Raffle. As in previous years, I am hoping to create an amazing hamper as our first prize and hope that you will be as generous as you have in previous years and kindly donate luxury items for the hamper.

If you are able and willing to make a donation to the hamper, please call 07702165456 or email me deborah_crawford@hotmail.com so that I can keep a list and ensure that we do not duplicate items.

Donations need to be with me by 11th November so that I have time to package the hamper but please get in touch as soon as possible so that I know what I can expect to receive.

Thank you for your support.

Debbie

HOLIDAY CLUB

This year, our 12th Holiday Club started on Monday 6th August with the theme ‘God’s Wonderful World’.

40-44 children attended each day and we had six young helpers, two from Biscuit Club, three former attendees at Holiday Club and a Rainbow Young Leader. We were also delighted to welcome Rev Rosemary Eaton and her husband Ray from Highams Park Baptist Church to the team of adults this year.

Each morning started with singing either Stand Up, Clap Hands, Shout Thank You, Lord or Nothing’s Too Big, Big, Big For His Power, both of which were energetic and full of actions.

After which, a story would be told which linked into that day’s theme. As this year’s theme was Creation, there was a little bit of adjustment to squash the 7 days of Creation into the 5 days of holiday club! A group game followed before the children then split into their groups for a chance to do cookery, crafts and play games. At the end of which, everyone would meet in the Church for a quiz and reflection and another chance to sing before going home.

Monday started with the story of Creation and we focused on Light & Dark, and Sea & Sky. A black and white paper craft was made; Creation Bingo was played; and a cake was decorated to represent Night & Day.

On Tuesday, they concentrated on Plants, Flowers & Trees, planting beautiful miniature gardens in a container; made a chocolate mini roll tree; and played Hunt the Conkers!

Wednesday dawned bright and sunny which was a blessing as the plan was to take the children to the Highams Park in the afternoon for a picnic lunch and outside games. The topic for the day was Sun, Moon & Stars which saw a game of Shooting Stars (also known as a sock fight!); and a clever turning paper craft. As we were having a picnic lunch, Cookery focused on making the sandwiches & Rice Krispie cakes and decorating cakes to be consumed for later. We then walked over to the Highams Park and enjoyed the picnic (in the sunshine!). There was a light breeze which kept the temperature very comfortable and made the parachute games a bit more challenging. The children enjoyed a variety of games for the rest of the afternoon and enjoyed using the climbing frames in the park and the zip wire.

Thursday, and the focus was Birds, Sea Creatures & Animals. Thanks to everyone who was saving drinks cartons-they were turned into very creative bird feeders. Cakes were also decorated and turned into an Octopus, an Owl, and a Hippo (and a random Unicorn thrown into the mix). A game of Relay Animals kept them on their toes.

Friday’s theme was People, and the children created a very long paper chain of people; played parachute games; and baked a whopping 250 cakes which were sold at the end of the morning, raising £125 for The Conservation Volunteers, a charity which runs conservation projects in Waltham Forest.

We met in the Church a bit earlier and invited parents and friends and members of the Days4You group, who had been meeting upstairs during the week. As well as performing songs and sharing a final quiz, all the children and helpers were presented with certificates.

During this session, Laura was presented with a card and generous gift from the parents which will go towards church funds.

On Sunday, it was great to be able to share the activities of the week with the congregation. 19 children came along with their families. All the youngsters took an active role in the service, showing things they had made, readings, prayers and singing. One of the young helpers operated the screens throughout the service, persevering with the many slides and photos that were included.

We are grateful to all the adult helpers who give their time and talents and to the young helpers who supported the children to be fully involved. The children had a great week.

Remembering Pat Hills

On Pat Ovenden’s recent visit to Doris Weston, a friend of Pat Hills, Doris fondly shared some memories of Pat…

I first met Pat 36 years ago when she joined the Highams Park Operatic Society to which I belonged.

She was quite excited as we did the Gypsy Baron with music by Strauss, followed by many shows including My Fair Lady, Sound of Music, Oklahoma and the Match Girls. Our society closed because most people had retired, including our producer, and he suggested that those remaining formed a group to visit care homes and similar venues to entertain and so we formed the Glow-worms.

We had good fun and lots of laughs.

Pat and I were also members of the Chingford Ladies Choir and Pat made lots of friends there too, including Vivian with whom she enjoyed lively banter. Pat was very quick witted.

Pat enjoyed her holidays visiting her family in Italy and again she found much to appeal to her sense of humour, such as the time her coat got muddled up with that of a very tall gentleman and consequently came down to her ankles and over her hands. It caused great hilarity as they exchanged the coats over the heads of the passengers. (Pat had already thrown away the gloves she found in the pocket).

On one occasion another friend and I went with her to Rome where her sister, Heather, acted as tour guide and we had a great time.

We also shared holidays in the UK.

Pat was always interested in other people and their welfare right up to the end of her life.

Italy, her family and friends, and music were her main loves. She loved all sort of music especially Ivor Novello.

She had a lovely personality and made and kept many friends. She was still making good friends to the end of her life. Pat was very appreciative of the help she had from Winchester Road Methodist Church.

She was a very brave lady and I miss her very much.

Doris Weston

Come along to our special coffee morning on Friday 28 September in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

There will be cakes and a raffle.

Winchester Road Methodist Church

10am-12noon

Are you available to help at this coffee morning? Please see Pat Ovenden if so. Thank you

We have received a card from the nursing team at Woodlands Day Unit – we sent them around £170 from donations for Pat Hills:

Thank you for the kind donations, in memory of Patricia Hills.

Please pass on our thanks to the congregation and others that donated. We will use the money to buy a new wheelchair for Woodlands, as sadly ours has disappeared!

Patricia was a lovely lady – full of spirit, who we all enjoyed looking after.

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm

Wed 5th September: Members Own: Our strange & unusual stories

Wed 19th September: Rev Norman Grigg: Clubland

Wed 3rd October: Pat O’Sullivan: Flowers (off with the fairies)

Wed 17th October: Jennifer Plummer: The Central Line

John Wesley images – Part 2

(following Part 1, published in May 2018)

In the eighteenth century there were numerous religious societies and independent congregations who met during the week especially in London and larger towns, and John Wesley was often invited to address them. In 1739 he travelled to Bristol to meet George Whitefield who had been a member of the Society which his student brother Charles formed at Oxford. Whitefield introduced John to ‘field preaching,’ open air preaching which enabled John to carry the good news of salvation to people who were outside the Church. Anglicans were suspicious of this evangelical preaching which was dismissed as ‘enthusiasm’. For the rest of his life John Wesley was a travelling preacher who, contrary to Anglican rules said ‘the world is my parish’. Evangelical experience can wither if it is not supported and it was the strength of the Methodist movement that wherever he went he established Methodist Societies which met in members’ homes. John Wesley who encouraged parish church attendance, hoped that local clergy would support him but few did as many clergy regarded them as rivals outside ecclesiastical control.

In her History of the English Church, Doreen Rossman writes ‘Suspicions of Methodists sometimes led to outbreaks of violence. Mobs pelted travelling preachers with eggs, mud or stones, stripped them, rolled them in dung and regularly sought to silence or humiliate them’.

A painting in the Museum of Methodism at Wesley’s Chapel depicts the events when he visited his birthplace at Epworth on June 6th 1742. The Journal entry reads:

.—A little before the service began, I went to Mr. Romley, the curate, and offered to assist him either by preaching or reading prayers. But he did not care to accept of my assistance. The church was exceedingly full in the afternoon, a rumour being spread that I was to preach. But the sermon on “Quench not the Spirit” [I Thess. 5:19] was not suitable to the expectation of many of the hearers. Mr. Romley told them one of the most dangerous ways of quenching the Spirit was by enthusiasm; and enlarged on the character of an enthusiast in a very florid and oratorical manner. After the sermon John Taylor stood in the churchyard and gave notice as the people were coming out, “Mr. Wesley, not being permitted to preach in the church, designs to preach here at six o’clock. Accordingly at six I came and found such a congregation as I believe Epworth never saw before. I stood near the east end of the church, upon my father’s tombstone, and cried, “The kingdom of heaven is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost” [Rom. 14:17].

[A section of the picture in the museum painted by the Victorian landscape artist Alfred Hunt showing an attentive crowd listening to Wesley preaching while standing on his father’s tomb.]

In his journal, Wesley often writes of occasions when individuals or mobs tried to shout him down or drive him out of town as happened when he visited Wednesbury in October 1743 and was being escorted through the town…

…we had not gone a hundred yards when the mob of Walsall came, pouring in like a flood, and bore down all before them……so that in a short time, many being knocked down, the rest ran away and left me in their hands. To attempt speaking was vain; for the noise on every side was like the roaring of the sea. so they dragged me along till we came to the town; where seeing the door of a large house open, I attempted to go in; but a man, catching me by the hair, pulled me back into the middle of the mob. They made no more stop till they had carried me through the main street, from one end of the town to the other.

When he was denied the pulpit Wesley would preach from a focal point in the town or village and the museum displays a striking painting by William Hatherell an artist known mainly as a book and magazine illustrator. This painting of Wesley preaching is dated 1909 and is unusual as it is painted in monochrome in shades of grey.

Allen Steel September 2018

Back to School – and daily life

‘Most Christians don’t really believe that the ordinary things they do every day have anything much to do with God’s purposes in time and eternity. But the reality is that God can and does work through His people… among the people they naturally meet, doing the things they normally do.’ (Mark Greene).

September is the time when we get back to our normal routines after the summer break. It’s a good opportunity to ask how God wants us to make a difference in our workplace, school, family or with friends. Paul writes:

‘And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.’ (Colossians 3:17).

As disciples, we are called to do the ordinary things in the name of Jesus, i.e. act in the way Jesus would in our situation.

‘WHATEVER you do’: God is at work in every aspect of our lives. He can use whatever we do to make a difference to those around. Do we believe this? Our lives shouldn’t be like an orange, segmented into the sacred and secular, but more like an apple, in which the whole is available to God.

‘Whatever YOU do’: God wants to use us to make a difference to the people and places where we spend time. We can trust Him for the resources we need hour by hour, day by day, year by year. What do we need from Him?

‘Whatever you DO’: Our work is for God alone, out of gratitude for God’s love for us. How does this perspective make a difference when what we do seems hard, unrewarding, or unappreciated by others?

‘Work doesn’t take us away from God; it continues the work of God.’ (Eugene Peterson).

Rev Paul Hardingham, vicar of St Peter’s Halliwell, Bolton. From www.parishpump.co.uk

Tee Hee

Highlighter pens are the future!

Mark my words!!

While you’re here, did you hear the one about the 13 inch ruler?

Never mind, it’s too long.

I like jokes about stationery but rulers are where I draw the line.

JULY 2018 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

On 5^th July 1948, the National Health Service came into being. It was launched by the Health Secretary, Aneurin Bevan, at Park Hospital in Manchester. This month the NHS celebrates its seventieth anniversary.

Prior to the NHS, medical care had to be paid for. Some people paid a small amount every month so that the doctor’s fees could be covered. If you watch an old film, or a modern film that is set back in time, you sometimes see examples of this. Our older readers may also remember what happened pre 1948.

The NHS has provided huge advances in medical care, as well as vaccinations, particularly for children, and lifesaving surgery through transplants and other serious conditions. Most, if not all of us, have much to be thankful for when we speak of the NHS. I am also aware, that in the last decade since austerity struck, there have been cancellation of operations, changes to clinic appointments and postponements, all of which have been frustrating and inconvenient.

2018 is also the anniversary of the Windrush people, those who came to the UK from the Caribbean to help us rebuild our country after the war. Many of these people worked for the NHS, and without their help and support, the NHS might have turned out rather differently.

I have much for which to be grateful to the NHS. Not only have I benefitted from its services as a patient, I had the privilege of working for the NHS in the earlier part of my working life, first as a nurse, and then as a midwife. I will never forget the training I undertook, which enabled me to side step into the ministry bringing with me many of the skills I learnt in my training.

Although we sometimes moan about waiting times and cancellations, when we are unwell, we know that we can be seen that day, by one of our many health professionals. Not many countries offer the same service, free of charge.

As you read this, pause for a moment and remind yourself of the care that you have received from the NHS, or the support that it gave to someone who was close to you. Maybe you are currently receiving the attention of the NHS, or are walking beside a member of your family or close friend who is receiving treatment.

The gospel stories tell us that Jesus healed people with many kinds of disease. He was compassionate and sympathetic towards the sick. As a child, these stories fascinated me. When I began to understand disease and its origin, the stories came alive for me. And the words of the following hymn took on a new meaning:

Verse 1

Jesus’ hands were kind hands doing good to all,

Healing pain and sickness, blessing children small…

Verse 2

Take my hands, Lord Jesus, let them work for you,

Make me strong and gentle, kind in all I do

[Hymns and Psalms 393. Margaret Cropper 1886-1980.]

We have much to be thankful to the author of this hymn, just as we do for the NHS.

Hilary

Prayer

Thank you for ordinary days Lord, for the comfort and peace of regular routines in a regular day.

We pray for those living through a scary day, filled with hospitals tests, results and procedures; upset days of loss and sadness.

Help us to remember you are with us every hour. When we are filled with this knowledge, may we recognise the specialness in ordinary days.

Amen

Vickie Middleton, Gnosall Methodist Chapel, Stafford Circuit.

From the Methodist Church Prayer Handbook 2017/18.

2018 Dates for your diary:

First & Third Wednesday of each month: Open Fellowship, 2.30-4pm

Every Friday during term time: Coffee Morning, 10am-12noon, to support local Parkinson’s Group

Sun 8^th July: Care Commissioning Service, 4pm, Cavendish Road Baptist Church

Sat 14^th July: Highams Park Day, Vincent Green, Vincent Road, Highams Park, 11am – 4pm (CTHP will do a stall; help required – please see Janice)

Fri 20^th – Sun 22^nd July: Moving Stories London Methodist Church District Conference (www.movingstorieslondon.com/conference)

Sat 21^st July: Winchester Café, 10am – 4pm

Sat 28^th July: All Saints Highams Park Women’s Ministry Summer Social, Royal Oak, Hale End Road, Highams Park, 12 noon. 2 courses £11.95/ 3 courses £14.95. Poster on noticeboard. Sign up by 15 July

at 4^th August: Waltham Forest Faith Fayre, Walthamstow Town Square, 11am – 3pm. Poster on noticeboard

Mon 6^th – Fri 10^th August: Holiday Club

Sun 30^th September: Harvest Service & Church Parade

Tues 16^th October: Church Council Meeting, 7.15pm for 7.30pm start

Sat 24^th November: Christmas Bazaar

On 15^th July, Rachel Lampard will be running in the British 10K to raise money for the charity ‘All We Can’. Rachel visited Jordan with the charity two years ago and saw at first hand just some of the work they do supporting Syrian refugees there. Rachel will be grateful for any donations and encouragement! You can sponsor her at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rachel-lampard or she will have sponsor forms with her.

Thank you.

Will your anchor hold?

Last month, Peter Dawe, in a morning service, took the sea as his theme selecting two readings, some unfamiliar words from Job 38 v4-11 and the well-known story of Jesus quelling the wind and waves whilst sailing with his disciples on the Sea of Galilee, from Mark 4 v 35-41.

We have all seen film of waves crashing on the shore or ships tossed by surging waves but few of us have direct experience of such terrors. It reminded me that John Wesley recorded in his journal a violent storm which attacked the ship on which he was travelling to the new American colony of Georgia. John and his brother Charles were sailing to America with the aim of serving the settlers and playing a part in the conversion of the indigenous tribes to Christianity. In October 1735 he set sail on a ship with over a hundred passengers including 26 Germans who were on their way to the ‘new world’ to set up their own settlement. So that he could speak with them John began to learn German, he was later to put this to good use in translating hymns. They were delayed two months by bad weather, not reaching the open Atlantic until January 1736 where they encountered several storms. In his journal he writes that he was impressed by the seriousness and humility of a body of German settlers who helped fellow passengers by performing various tasks, something which the English would not do, for which they refused all offers of payment saying that ‘it was good for their proud hearts and their loving saviour had done more for them‘.

During a storm on January 25, the Germans were worshipping and Wesley writes…..

In the midst of the Psalm wherewith their service began, the sea broke over, split the mainsail in pieces, covered the ship and poured in between the decks, as if the great deep had already swallowed us up. A terrible screaming broke out among the English. The Germans calmly sang on. I asked one of them afterwards “were you not afraid?” He answered “I thank God no”. I asked “But were not your women and children afraid?” He replied mildly “No our women and children are not afraid to die.” The ship arrived safely in the calms of the Savannah river on 5^th of February.

Among the hymns which Peter chose were two familiar hymns both written by authors about whom there is little information. Priscilla Jane Owens was born in Baltimore (USA) in 1829 and was lifelong member of the Methodist Episcopalian Church and the only facts about her I have discovered are that she was a teacher, both in Sunday School and public (state) school. Her fames rests on the poems, ballads and the many hymns she wrote for children. The best known and the only one in Singing the Faith is the robust ‘Will your anchor hold in the storms of life’ STF 645. The tune was written by a fellow member of her church William Kirkpatrick. The refrain asserts that ‘We have an anchor which keeps the soul steadfast and sure while the billows roll, fastened to the Rock which cannot move, grounded firm and deep in the Saviours love. The hymn was inspired by Paul’s words in the Letter to the Hebrews Ch 6 v13-20 where we are told that we have God’s promises to rely on ‘we have this hope as an anchor for our lives’ (v19). It is a hymn which many associate with the Boys Brigade whose motto is ‘sure and steadfast’.

More closely scriptural was the last hymn we sang STF 517 ‘Eternal Father strong to save whose arm doth bind the restless wave’, written by William Whiting, a hymn which we rarely sing these days. Whiting born in 1825 is only remembered as being the Master of the Choristers of Winchester College for 36 years in the mid-19th century. The hymn takes up themes in Psalm 107, part of which we read together in the service from the version in STF 825 For at his word the stormy wind arose and lifted up the waves of the sea. They were carried up to the heavens and down again to the deep… They cried to the Lord in their trouble and he brought them out of their distress. He made the storms be still and the waves of the sea were calmed. (Ps 107 v 25-26, 28-29).

In verse 2 of the hymn Whiting refers to a gospel story with Jesus walking on the foaming deep, but it was the chorus which led to the hymn being linked to sailors and it is regarded as the Navy hymn by both the British and American Navies.

O hear us when we cry to thee

for those in peril on the sea.

It is the only one of Whiting’s hymns selected for Singing the Faith and has the benefit of a tune (Melita) by John Baccus Dykes (noted for twelve popular tunes in STF including those for We plough the fields and scatter (130), The King of love my shepherd is (479), Holy Holy Lord God almighty (11), I heard the voice of Jesus say (248), Praise to the holiest in the height (334). Our service, my article and the hymn all end with the words….

and ever let there rise to thee

glad hymns of praise from land and sea.

Allen Steel July/August 2018

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm

Wednesday 18^th July: Cream Tea

No meetings in August. Will resume in September.

THANK YOU

We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone in (and associated with) Winchester Road Methodist Church for supporting Sylvia Dixon recently in her sponsored swim.

Sylvia swam 36 lengths, despite having a slipped disc, and raised £765 towards our granddaughter’s spinal operation in August.

Fundraising has been exhausting. The cost of the operation, in Germany is £35,000, but thanks to the hard work, kindness and generosity of people like you we are almost there.

Thank you so much.

Don and Marion Clark

To all my dear friends at Care Lunch – guests, cooks and helpers.

I wish you all an enjoyable summer. My God keep you safe and happy.

I look forward to seeing you in September.

With love from Barbara Chapman x

We are sad to announce the death of Pat Hills in June. Please remember her family and friends in your prayers at this time.

Kath’s 90^th birthday celebrations

On Sunday 2^nd September, Kath Warner will celebrate her 90^th birthday.

We would like to invite everyone to attend ‘open house’ at 15 Hurst Close, Chingford, E4 8DN on either Saturday 1^st or Sunday 2^nd September between 3.00 & 5.00 p.m. to share some time with Kath and partake in light refreshments.

Kath has requested that you do not bring presents or flowers – it is your presence that is required, not your presents!

If you feel you really cannot come empty handed then there will be a charity box for Action for Kids that you may put a small donation in should you wish to do so.

We look forward to seeing you in September.

Janice, Roger, Maureen & Graham

Volunteers required: Screens rota

We are currently looking for willing helpers to join the screens rota.

What does this involve?

Giving your availability to help one or two weeks a month (the more helpers, the less frequently you’d be required).
Sitting at the back of the church next to the person on Sound, and clicking the right arrow key on the laptop to progress the PowerPoint presentation onto the next slide.
After the service, closing down the laptop and locking it away. That’s it! The laptop will be set up for you ahead of the service so you don’t need to worry about setting it up.

If you think you can help, please speak to Laura Pease or email her on: pease_in_our_time@live.com

Thank you

Holiday Club

Monday 6^th – Friday 10^th August

*Further details and booking information*

We will be running our 12^th Holiday Club for children aged 5 to 11 (Reception to Year 6), during the Summer Holidays from Monday 6^th – Friday 10^th August.

There will be all sorts of fun activities each morning, around the theme of ‘Our Wonderful Earth’.

The club will start at 10am and finish at 12.45pm each day.

On Wednesday, we will have a picnic, which we will provide, in Higham’s Park, and activities during the afternoon, finishing at 3.30pm.

On Sunday 12^th August, we will be leading the church service and share some of the activities of the week with the congregation.

We have a church policy for Child Protection and all adult volunteers will be DBS checked.

It will cost £15 for the week.

To book, please email Jan Dent: jdent7@gmail.com

If you have any questions, please contact Jan by e-mail.

If you are interested in helping, please speak to Laura Pease or Jan Dent.

Peter Dawe – 50 years as a local preacher

What an unexpected delight to receive the wonderful surprise at the start of morning worship at Winchester Road on June 10^th to mark my 50^th anniversary as an accredited Local Preacher. Thank you for the generous book token which I look forward to spending. Special thanks to Dorothy for the handmade card to mark the event which I will treasure.

I trust that everyone who attended the circuit service at North Chingford that evening found it as uplifting as Janet and I with the rest of my family did. Nigel Cowgill’s sermon was superb and the musicians made the evening.

Thank you to Graham for leading us in the hymn, based on a prayer of St. Francis of Assissi, one of my favourites.

I would like to quote a short poem which I used at that service which sums up my calling not only to preach but to be involved in public life locally and beyond over those five decades:-

I looked for my God but my God I could not see,

I looked for my soul but my soul eluded me,

I looked for my neighbour and I found all three.
Peter Dawe

Wi-Fi

The wi-fi has been updated throughout the church. Keep an eye out for a poster in the Hub with connectivity details.

Annual Church Meeting: 10 June 2018

Due to Hilary Cheng being unwell, the meeting held after the morning service was chaired by Rev Dr John Lampard. Annual reports from the stewards, church committees and groups which were circulated in advance were accepted. At the time of writing, copies are still available at the back of the church or from Church Stewards. The meeting agreed to the appointment of Jan Evans and Pat Ovenden as Church Stewards. Adèle Bird, Alex Fletcher and Jane Tetteh-Alimo were elected to serve as Church representatives on the Church Council.

Summary of matters and additions to reports which were discussed at the meeting:

Thefts from individuals while the premises were occupied and hence CCTV has been installed to monitor the premises. Improved WiFi would be installed shortly. A show of hands suggested that a majority of those present were interested in a Church Away Day subject to location and cost. Gifts to mark the Church Anniversary amounted to £10,588.

There was a lengthy discussion about the suggestion to remove some or all of the pews to facilitate more modern flexible worship in the church and also provide more space for wheelchairs. Total removal would lead to a reduction in seating of around a third, require new flooring and affect the acoustics. Also the cost needed to be considered. Some felt that pews were safer than chairs for the infirm and that it would change the character of the building. It would lead to more work arranging the chairs for services. Variations were suggested eg. removing just the central block or only the first two rows. A vote taken to test the views of those present showed that only 4 people favoured total removal with 22 supporting some removal and 18 voting for keeping things as they are. It was hoped that a wider discussion would take place.

Rachel Lampard spoke about the Methodist Conference suggestion that Churches like Winchester Road should consider their programme about ‘Moving Forward.’ Fewer people were becoming members, though at Winchester more people were using the premises. Worship needed to be more accessible in language and content so that people would be happy to bring a friend along. There was a need for us to engage people in discussions about God, to pray together, read the Bible together. Rachel reminded us that Methodism began in small groups coming together to explore their faith. Caring and Service to the neighbourhood meeting local challenges was important. Evangelism should be at the centre, something which many found difficult but entering into conversations about the love of God was key, people should not shy away from such talk because they felt they were imperfect Christians. In writing their reports church committees should include a section entitled ‘Looking Forward’ next year.

Other matters:

Themed services and different types of worship should be explored, the issue was referred to the Stewards and Church Council.

With increasing numbers using the premises on Saturdays a Saturday caretaker should be employed.

The installation of a defibrillator was still ongoing with training still an issue.

We were asked to consider writing a card or letter to a young person attending 3GENERATE this year. Pick up a postcard giving details from the back of the church.

Voice and Vote: Women’s Place in Parliament:This exhibition opened at Westminster Hall (NB the parliament building,
NOT the Methodist Central Hall) on Wednesday 27 June, and runs until
October, acknowledging the struggles of the suffrage movement, and
celebrating both 100 years of women’s suffrage and 60 years of women’s presence in the House of Lords.

For more information:

www.parliament.uk/get-involved/vote-100/voice-and-vote/

Tee Hee

The grim reaper came for me last night and I fought him off with a vacuum cleaner.

Talk about Dyson with death!!!

The Winchester Café held on Saturday 9^th June raised £643.11 for JMA! Thank you to all those involved with the preparation beforehand and on the day, and to everyone who attended.

Gifts to mark the Church Anniversary amounted to £10,720, as reported at the Church Council meeting held on 2 July.

Greetings from Joan Dunseath (née Lankshear)

Joan sends her best wishes to anyone who remembers the Lankshear family. Joan used to attend with her parents Ruby and Ted Lankshear, and she used to play for the Junior Departmet when Kath Barnes was in charge, and occasionally the organ when Mr Leverton was on holiday. She now attends St Sadwryn’s church.

Joan keeps up to date with Winchester Road’s goings on via the newsletter.

Which Bible translation is for you?

How do you choose a new Bible among all the translations available? If you have ever wondered what the differences are, and which translation is best for you, you may find a new guide produced by Bible Society to be of use. Go to:

www.biblesociety.org.uk/explore-the-bible/which-is-the-best-bible-translation

Room to rent required

A lady attending the Methodist Chapel in Norfolk is looking to move to London for employment and is seeking a room to rent in London or within commutable distance. If you can help or know of a suitable accommodation opportunity, please speak to Barbara Chapman for contact details.

Thank you

Methodist Women in Britain Residential Weekend

On a bright, sunny Friday morning in April, Carole, Janet and Lindy set off to join 250 other women attending the MWiB Residential Weekend at The Hayes Conference Centre, Swanwick, Derbyshire. We were looking forward to hearing the Keynote Speaker, Rachel Lampard, speaking on the theme ‘ Oceans of justice, rivers of fairness’ and other speaker on related subjects.

The weekend started with an excellent dinner, and an opportunity to catch up with friends, then onto a welcome and Opening Worship. Both days ended with the ‘Late night options’, Circle Dancing, browsing the stalls, chatting over coffee and on Saturday joining in a Q&A session with the speakers.

Saturday morning started early with a choice of ways to join in early morning prayers:- privately ‘in your pyjamas’, a prayer walk round the grounds or joining a group led by one of the Districts. Then on to the sessions. Rachel talked about Poverty and Justice, introducing it from her own experience and with readings from the bible which illustrated that we worship a God of Justice and an Incarnate God. She went on to talk about one of the things that most worried her; ‘Hunger’. Food banks are becoming more and more essential to an increasing group of people who get caught in a cycle of poverty and need often because of the way that Universal Credit is administered. We were introduced to ‘craftivism’ a gentle, non-disruptive, slow but informed, communal way of protesting. We were then all given a napkin, needles and thread to sew a message about hunger which should then be posted to our MP. For the rest of the weekend women could be seen all around the Conference centre diligently sewing their napkins.

The afternoon was filled with a choice of different workshops, from which you could choose two. They ranged from ‘Mental Health Awareness’, ‘Stop the trafficking’, ‘Christian Aid’ through to ‘Modern Music in Worship’ The day ended with a performance of ‘Chosen’, a piece written from the point of view of Mary reflecting on the life of Jesus.

Sunday mornings’ session was a bible study looking at Transformation. When you transform yourself by living according to God’s word you help to transform the world. This led on to the closing Communion Service.

The weekend highlighted concerns from around the world and gave us plenty to think about but it is also a time to renew and make friendships in a beautiful setting and a time for quiet reflection which we often do not get in our busy lives. Every woman who worships in a Methodist Church is a member of MWiB so if you would like to come to the weekend next year please speak to one of us.

Methodist Conference 2018: Presidency

The Conference is the governing body of the Methodist Church and meets annually to discuss matters affecting the life of the Church, the nation and the world.

During the ceremony, the new President receives a Bible that was used by John Wesley. During his lifetime John Wesley chaired the Methodist Conference but after his death the Conference determined to elect a President annually.

The 2018 Conference took place from 28 June – 5 July at the University of Nottingham.

New President of the Methodist Conference for 2018/2019:

On Saturday 30 June, Rev Michaela Youngson was elected and inducted as the new President, taking over from Rev Loraine Mellor.

Michaela was ordained in 1997 and is one of the Chairs of the London District. She is a regular contributor to Pause for Thought on BBC Radio Two, Chair of Trustees for Methodist Central Hall, a trustee of Making Herstory and a trustee of Southlands College.

With a passion for social justice and for developing strong ecumenical relationships, Michaela is committed to working within the diverse and rich context of the Connexion.

Having chosen ‘radical grace’ as her theme for the year, Michaela is looking forward to helping the Methodist Church consider the radical nature of God’s grace and the ethic of hospitality and love-centred mission that flows from that grace. You can read her address here:

www.methodist.org.uk/media/8500/presidential-address-2018.pdf

New Vice-President of the Methodist Conference for 2018/2019:

Bala Gnanapragasam was inducted as Vice-President, taking over from Jill Baker.

Bala believes strongly in mission and social justice. He serves on the board of Christian Aid and MHA (formerly known as Methodist Homes for the Aged). He is also a trustee of the London HIV/Aids Chaplaincy. He was the first Synod Secretary for the combined London District. Born in Sri Lanka, Bala came to the UK in the 1960s and has previously served as an elected councillor for the London Borough of Lewisham. He has also served as the Chair of University Hospital Lewisham.

During his address, Bala reflected on ‘Transforming Hope’ and shared emotive stories that looked at the importance of inspiring hope and challenging injustice.

OUR STEWARDS AND SENIOR STEWARDS

Senior Stewards: Samuel Ebden and Carole Merriman
Stewards: Janet Evans, Gillian Farnfield, Hazel Mathews, Carol and Dumisani Moyo, Pat Ovenden.

Following the Annual Church Meeting last month, we welcome Janet Evans and Pat Ovenden as stewards, and Carole Merriman as a Senior Steward.

Thank you to Janet Dawe and Jonathan Daniels for their service during the last six years as stewards, and to Janet as a Senior Steward.

Tee Hee

One day God calls down to Noah and says “Noah, I want you to make me a new Ark.”

Noah replies, “No probs God, anything you want, after all you’re the boss.”

But God interrupts, “Ah but there’s a catch this time Noah: I don’t just want a couple of decks, I want 20 decks! One on top of the other.”

“20 DECKS!”, screams Noah, “Well, OK Big Man, whatever you say. Should I fill it up with all the animals just like last time?”

“Sort of, except instead I want you to fill it up with fish.” God answers.

“Fish?” Queries Noah.

“Yes fish. More specifically, carp: I want carp, wall to wall, floor to ceiling. All the carp!”

Noah looks to the skies, “OK God, let me get this right, you want a new ark?”

“Check”.

“With 20 decks, one on top of the other?”.

“Check”.

“And you want it full of carp?”.

“Check”

“But why?” asks the perplexed Noah, who was slowly but surely getting to the end of his tether.

“Well….” says God, “I just thought it would be nice to have a Multi-Storey Carp Ark”

JANUARY 2018 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

I hope that you had a wonderful time on Christmas Day and that the real meaning of Christmas, the birth of Christ, was part of your celebrations.

What did you do on Boxing Day? Eat up the leftovers and visit friends and family, I hear you say. Boxing Day is also the Feast Day of St Stephen. His story appears in Acts chapter 7 where we read that he was martyred for his faith.

A well- known Christmas carol refers to Good King Wenceslas, a nobleman from the Czech Republic, who looked out on the Feast of Stephen and saw a poor man gathering firewood. Moved by his poverty, the Duke, for he never was a king, packed a food box and taking his page, went to help the poor labourer whom he saw. Whether the story is true or a legend, I do not know, but in the centre of Prague, you can find Wenceslas Square, named after this Christian man.

The carol ends with the words, ‘You who now will bless the poor, shall yourselves find blessing’. Christmas is a time for giving, not just to those we know and love but also to people we will never meet but wish to help in some way. Many carols speak of the need to give to others, and people often refer to this time of year as the season of goodwill.

But Christian charity doesn’t just stop when Christmas Day has passed. We are still called to give to those in need throughout the year.

As we enter this New Year, may we be mindful of the needs of others. We may have plenty to eat, but many people in the world are denied the basic necessities of food, clean drinking water, access to health care and education in the way that they are provided in this country. When we give our time or money to help the poor, not only do we bless them but God also blesses us.

Wishing you a happy and healthy 2018 and may God continue to bless you throughout the year.

Hilary

‘You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance.’

~Psalm 65:11

Jesus, the first and last

First light, first thought – Jesus, be with me;

I do not go into this day alone.

Words, tasks, challenges – Jesus guide me;

I look to you for direction, wisdom, compassion.

Doubts, tears, stumbles – Jesus uphold me;

I am weak but you are strong.

Joys, laughter, opportunities – Jesus bless me;

I am thankful for your grace.

Family, friends, neighbours – Jesus touch them;

I name each one before you.

Last light, last though – Jesus, be with me;

I hold onto you in the liog reaches of the night.

Amen.

Jill Baker, Vice-President of the British Methodist Conference 2017/18. From the Methodist Church Prayer Handbook 2017/18.

2018 Dates for your diary

First & Third Wednesday of each month: Open Fellowship, 2.30-4pm (see page 16)

Every Friday during term time: Coffee Morning, 10am-12noon, to support local Parkinson’s Group

Sun 14^th January: Covenant Service

Sat 20^th January: Fundraising coffee morning and lunches, 10am-4pm

Mon 22^nd January: Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Cavendish Road Baptist Church, 10am

Tues 23^rd January: Week of Prayer for Christian Unity followed by tea/coffee, here at Winchester Road, 11am

Wed 24^th January: Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Communion Service, All Saints Highams Park, 10am

Sun 28^th January: All Age Worship and Church Parade

Sat 3^rd February: Jumble Sale, 10am-12 noon

Mon 5^th February: Church Council Meeting, 7.15pm for 7.30pm start

Sun 18^th February: Going Forward Communion

Fri 2^nd March: Women’s World Day of Prayer followed by tea/coffee, 10.30am

Sun 4^th March: Uniformed Organisations Anniversary & Church Parade

Tues 6^th March: Outreach Committee, 7.30pm for 7.45pm start

Sun 1^st April: Easter Sunday Communion, 9am

Sun 20^th May: Young Church Anniversary

Tues 5^th June: Church Council Meeting, 7.15pm for 7.30pm start

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to Janice Pettit who has been awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours list for services to youth work and the community in the London Borough of Waltham Forest.

JUMBLE SALE & COFFEE MORNING

Saturday 3^rd February

10am – 12 noon

We are in need of volunteers for our Jumble Sale on this year. If you are able to help in any of the following ways then can you please let us know?

To set out the tables from 5.30pm on Friday evening (2^nd February)
To sort and collect jumble from 7pm on Friday evening (2^nd February)
To serve on the stalls from 9.45am on the Saturday morning
To provide tea/coffee and run a cake stall
To make cakes for the cake stall
To come down at 12 noon on the Saturday to help clear up
To come down at 12.30pm on the Saturday to take a car load to the King’s Road recycling centre and Low Hall tip (many hands make light work!)
To leaflet the local roads the weekend prior to the jumble sale

Please see Hazel Mathews or one of the Stewards if you are able to help in any way. Thank you

HAPPY NEW YEAR……

The main events in the life of Jesus are the origin of Britain’s annual holiday celebrations, Christmas, Easter and Whitsun, though the last is giving way to the Spring Bank Holiday. The other popular celebration, New Year, has no religious significance. Here in the western world we have experienced two calendars, the Julian calendar, introduced by Julius Caesar, around 45 BC which tidied up an older version, and the Gregorian calendar proposed by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. The latter has gradually become the accepted way of dating throughout the world though other calendars are still followed in some countries and by other religions. In the Middle Ages England, like most European countries, the year began on Lady Day (March 25^th). The Tax year (Fiscal Year) which runs from April 5, is based on this new year date though it is not marked by any celebration! In 1750 an Act of Parliament made the Gregorian Calendar Law and from then January 1^st was recognised as the first day of the year.

Looking at New Year Celebrations two things struck me, the first being fire and noise. Crowds gather on the Thames embankment to sing loudly ‘auld lang syne’ and watch the cracking and whooshing of fireworks while some families have their own midnight rocket display at home. Bonfires and processions with fireballs dating from Viking times mark the New Year in some northern and Scottish towns while the Chinese welcome their new year (this year on February 16^th) at midnight with noisy firecrackers. Rosh Hashanah, the beginning of the Jewish New Year commemorates the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve. At the synagogue, the shofar (a trumpet made from a ram’s horn) is sounded to raise a noise and herald the beginning of the year. Many of these old traditions originated in rural communities where it was believed that noise would drive away evil spirits and ensure a good year and plenteous harvest.

My second thought is the reference to doors when we speak of welcoming the year into our lives and homes. In Scotland the New Year’s Eve celebration, called Hogmanay, is more widely celebrated than Christmas due to historic Presbyterian influence which rejected Christmas as the date could not be scripturally verified. The origin of the word Hogmanay is obscure but is probably from Norse or ancient Gaelic roots. Just before midnight the door would be opened to let out the old year and to welcome the New Year in the person of a dark haired visitor, called the ‘first footer’. Blond or light haired people are considered bad luck because they may be descendants of the blond Vikings who pillaged the north in the past. First Footers should bring symbolic gifts; bread to ensure food for the year, salt for flavour, coal for warmth, an evergreen branch for long life, and whisky for good cheer. I am reminded of a poem by Minnie Haskins, spoken in the famous Christmas broadcast by King George VI in 1939 which I have quoted before:

And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year

“Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown”

And he replied :” Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God

That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.”.

As an alternative to New Year’s Eve celebrations some Protestant churches hold a Watch night Service on that evening for prayer, confession and resolution, a time to look back over the past year and make resolutions for the coming year. Some writers claim that the Methodist Covenant Service held in our churches each January was John Wesley’s response to these ideas. ‘He saw the need for some regular ceremony which would enable people to open themselves to God more fully…..In 1755 Wesley created a form of service adapted from the works of Joseph and Richard Alleine. These works came from the Puritan tradition of pastoral and spiritual guidance’. ‘The covenant is the means of grace by which we accept a relationship with God and seek to sustain it. It is not so much about getting into a relationship with God as it is about staying in it’. (Quoted from the Methodist Website concerning the Covenant Service.)

Our Covenant Service which will be led by Hilary is on 14^th January.

There are other New Year’s which you might like to recognise. At a service in November David Hobbs reminded us that the first Sunday in Advent is the beginning of the Liturgical Year, the Christian Year recognised by western Christianity, whose main seasons are Advent, Christmas, Lent and Passiontide, and Easter with the periods between being called Ordinary Time. The Methodist Worship Book prints the three cycle of Bible readings which we and other denominations follow at Sunday Services. There is also a Methodist Year which begins on the First of September by which time the Church accounts have been balanced and ministers who are changing churches have moved are ready to meet their new congregations on the first Sunday in September. The Academic Year (school and university) which also begins in September has a real effect on families and especially the younger members of our congregation as it fixes term dates and holidays.

Allen Steel January 2018

Eternal God

you sent your son to be born among us

that we might be born again to newness of life.

Fill us with the gladness of you great redemption

that as we begin this new year with your blessing,

we may continue it in your favour,

and live all our days as your children

in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord;

who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,

one God , now and for ever.

Amen.

The Watchnight Collect from the Methodist Worship Book

A Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

12-19 February 2018

With Rev Jonathan Mead & Rev Elaine Joseph

Eight days based in Jerusalem & Galilee

Contact Jonathan on 020 7624 3075

or jonomead@aol.com

Covenant Service: Sunday 14^th January, 10.30am

All are welcome here at Winchester Road as we celebrate a very special Sunday in the Methodist year, Covenant Sunday.

The traditional Covenant prayer (shown below) makes it very clear that this affirmation is a serious one that embraces the whole of our life, in all its parts.

You will be welcome, whether you are sharing in a Covenant Service for the first time, have done it annually for many years, or simply want to watch what others do without taking part yourself.

Methodist Covenant Prayer

I am no longer my own but yours.

Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will;

put me to doing, put me to suffering;

let me be employed for you, or laid aside for you,

exalted for you, or brought low for you;

let me be full, let me be empty,

let me have all things, let me have nothing:

I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things

to your pleasure and disposal.

And now, glorious and blessèd God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,

you are mine and I am yours.

And the covenant now made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven.

Amen.

From the Methodist Worship Book

21^st Walthamstow Cubs. Situation vacant

Currently the pack has two uniformed leaders, Luke & Roger, and at least one has to be present at all meetings or outside activities.

Luke, a policeman, is finding that shift work is leaving him insufficient time to properly plan the operation of the pack and is therefore standing down as leader, although he will still attend Wednesday meetings as his work permits.

Roger, who is well over what was previously the retirement age for uniformed leaders, will continue as leader to the end of term in July and will then stand down.

The pack therefore urgently requires another adult who is prepared to become a uniformed leader and take a full role in running the pack. Full support & training is available.

We currently have 20 cubs with a long waiting list and would love to be able to go back to our usual number of at least 24 but are unable to do this without further help.

If another leader cannot be found the pack could be forced to close in July after 66 years at Winchester causing great problems for both Beavers & Scouts. Please do not let this happen.

If you feel able to help please contact;

Roger Pettit 020 8529 1162 roger_pettit@btinternet.com

Come along one Wednesday, see what we get up to and meet the cubs!

Two Nativities

Many Thanks to Rachel for her inspiration for both the Young Church Nativity on 17^th December and the ‘Pop-up-Nativity’ on Christmas Eve.

The script for our Young Church nativity gave time for reflection, through the thoughts of some of the characters, as well as a chance for the younger members to act the familiar story.

Although we only had two weeks to rehearse, all the youngsters worked hard and were all there for rehearsals, even struggling through the snow! Most of them also learnt their words making it much easier to speak out in church. It was great that two of our youngest members were able to join in, thanks to Emily who was able to encourage and guide them. The congregation, as well as the shepherds, were ‘surprised’ by the angels as they burst out from the pulpit. Millie and Martha did an excellent job as narrators. Lindy, as ever, found costumes for everyone. Thank to Steve and Bruce for playing, piano and organ, and for Steve stepping in as the ‘older king’ on the day and also Louise for working the screens.

We are so lucky to have so many young people at Winchester, with 22 taking part on the day.

Our second nativity was more concerning in many ways as there was no script, and we had no idea how many people would turn up. Lindy provided costumes for both adults and children and we managed to collect shepherds crooks (walking sticks) and angel halos (tinsel).

As people arrived they were offered warm ‘mulled’ fruit juice (thanks Steve) as well as homemade biscuits and mince pies. The Hub soon started to fill with adults and children.

Hilary and Maureen started proceedings and the story was told with lots of action interspersed with carols. All those present played their part in journeying through the church to Bethlehem and ‘loudly’ refusing Mary and Joseph anywhere to stay. They also quietly sang baby Jesus to sleep.

Everyone ended up in the church, lit with candles, to reflect on the story and leave a symbolic present by the crib, with promises to serve Jesus in the community.

The number of ‘presents’ distributed indicated that there must have been at least 90 adults and children, with many families from the local area. It was a wonderful lead into Christmas day. Thanks to Maureen, Rachel and Hilary.

I would like to thank the Church Family, at Winchester, for all their support throughout 2017. It proved to be a very difficult year, especially just before Christmas when my Dad died so suddenly. Your thoughts and prayers have all been much appreciated.

Thank You,

Jan Dent

Our thoughts and prayers are with Audrey Payling and her family following the death of her husband Cliff on 28^th December.

We are sad to announce the death of Lionel Forman on 15^th November. Lionel and his wife Wendy were members at Winchester Road during the 1960’s and 70’s. They have been members of Goodrington Methodist church, near Paignton in Devon. Please remember Wendy and her family in your prayers at this time.

Bereavement Service

The Churches together in Highams Park Bereavement Service was held at Winchester Rd on 3^rd December.

The service was led by Rev Hilary Cheng, Rev Richard Mortimer (URC) and Phil Slaney (Highams Park Baptist Church).

Around 20/25 people attended the service, which included carols, readings and an address. There was the opportunity to light candles in memory of people who had died.

James Hawes Funeral Directors in Highams Park produced a beautiful order of service and notified people of the service and this was much appreciated. From speaking to some people who attended the service it was felt that it was helpful to those whose bereavement was many years ago as well as the very recently bereaved. It is felt that we should make as many people as possible aware of this annual service to allow them the opportunity to attend.

Congratulations

Congratulations to 7 girls from the 2^nd Highams Park Guides who all completed their Baden Powell Award – the highest award that they can achieve in the Guide section. We helped them celebrate with a 3 course meal for their families along with any of the Guides who also wished to attend. They will now move on from Guides and go into young leadership with some of the younger sections.

Who was the best financial adviser in history?

Noah: He successfully floated stock while the rest of the world went into liquidation.

Where did Noah keep his bees?

In the ark hives!

I wonder how many chameleons snuck onto the Ark?

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm.

Wednesday 3^rd January: Beetle Drive

Wednesday 17^th January: Maureen Poole: Where my caravan has rested

Wednesday 7^th February: Mary & Steve Lockett: A look at Modern Art

Wednesday 21^st February: Peter & Janet Dawe: Mayor & Mayoress in the millennium year

Do you have a talent you can share?

Perhaps you could play the piano, or sing, dance, or perform simple magic?

Gracewell Care Home at Chingford Hatch are looking for anyone who could entertain the residents for an hour, whenever convenient.

Please call Janyce Hands on 020 3225 4075 or speak to Barbara Chapman.

Thanks

Daily Bible Readings

Deeply engaging with Scripture is important for all

Christians, and Methodism is no exception. John Wesley

described Methodists as a people who had been raised

up to spread ‘Scriptural Holiness’ throughout the land, and recognised that immersion in Scripture was one key way in which the people of God grew into maturity and faith.

Interested but don’t know where to start? Why don’t you take a look at The Methodist Church Prayer Handbook 2017/18 or visit: www.methodist.org.uk/our-faith/the-bible/a-word-in-time

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

This year the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity runs from 18th to 25th January. The theme of the week this year comes from the churches of the Caribbean, and addresses some of the problems which affect the people there, but also worldwide.

Thus, as abuses of human rights are found across the region, the week will challenge us to consider our manner of welcoming the stranger into our midst. Human trafficking and modern-day slavery continue to be huge issues. Addiction to pornography and drugs continue to be serious challenges to all societies. The debt crisis has a negative impact upon the nations and upon individuals – the economies of the nations and people have become precarious. Family life continues to be challenged by the economic restrictions which lead to migration, domestic abuse and violence.

What are Christians to do, in the face of such vast problems? The Caribbean Churches work together to heal the wounds in people’s lives, but also know that reconciliation demands repentance, reparation and the healing of memories. The whole Church is called to be both a sign and an active agent of this reconciliation.

January Charm

The jewel-encrusted branches
As hoar frost leaves its touch;
The snowscape that entrances
That’s what I love so much!
The starlight’s diamond splendour
The peaceful, icy calm;
It’s easy to surrender
To January charm.

By Nigel Beeton, from Parish Pump website

Tee hee

Recently, I went to a party that had a Mexican magician. He wore a sombrero and was pretty good.

Near the end of the night, he gathered us round for his finale – a disappearing act!

So we all gathered in anticipation as he started his countdown:

“Uno,”

“Dos,”

POOF!

…and he disappeared without a très!

DECEMBER 2017 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

Journeys – we all make them. Most of us make at least one journey a day. They can be exciting, fulfilling, taking us to places that we haven’t been to before, to visit friends and family. There are equally journeys that we undertake that we would prefer not to embark upon – to school on the day of an exam (remember that sinking feeling?), to the dentist, or perhaps to a hospital, either for ourselves or someone else.

The Christmas story is full of journeys. Mary and Joseph made the journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. The shepherds out in the fields responded to the angel’s message to go and visit the newborn baby in the town of David. Then there are the Magi, or three wise men who followed a star which brought them to the place where Jesus was, a difficult journey I would imagine, and one that makes me thankful that we don’t need to rely on the stars for our travel today!

But the point about two of these stories is that the characters returned home via a different route to the one that had brought them. From Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph fled to Egypt with the young infant Jesus, to escape the wrath of King Herod. They returned to Nazareth some time later. The wise men were asked to return to King Herod to report on the arrival of the newborn child, but they went home another way. Although the shepherds returned to their fields, they did so rejoicing at what they had seen.

Each of us makes an individual journey to faith in Jesus Christ. Once we have met him and acknowledge the special place he has in all our life, we will never feel quite the same again. Like the shepherds and the wise men, our encounter with Jesus changes the way we feel and the direction in which we go.

This Christmas, as we celebrate again the birth of Jesus, I hope that your faith in the risen Christ will encourage you to journey on to a newer, deeper and more meaningful relationship with the One who went to the cross for our salvation.

Wishing you the peace and joy of the Christmas season,

Hilary

Our Christmas Bazaar was held on a beautifully bright but chilly Saturday 25^th November.

Local choir, Harmony E4, kindly braved the cold to sing carols to the queue of people waiting for the doors to open at 10am.

There were lots of stalls to browse with bargains to be had in Bric a Brac, Christmas presents being bought and the odd cake or two being saved for later or eaten on the go!

Father Christmas was kept busy with many children queueing to visit him when they weren’t busy being creative in the Craft Room.

Delicious lunches went down a treat to the hungry shoppers and stall holders.

A big thank you to Sarah and her team for organising the Bazaar and thank you to everyone who works so hard with all the preparation throughout the year and all the volunteers who helped on the day.

Thank you to all the visitors who came and enjoyed the day; it was a blessing to welcome so many people to our church.

Prayer at Christmas By Daphne Kitching

Father of all good gifts,

Thank you for the greatest gift of all – your precious Son, Jesus. Thank you that He chose to live with us so that all who trust Him will one day live with you in peace and wholeness.

Help us Father, this Christmas, to keep you at the centre of our celebrations and, in the midst of all the busy-ness and rush, to know your presence and the peace that only you can give. And Lord, may we reflect your love to those who don’t yet know that you are real and alive and able to help, whatever their situation.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

~ Luke 2:10

Mary Reeds

Prayers have been said in Church for Mary and her family, following her death at the beginning of November.

Mary was not a member of our congregation at Winchester Road, but if there was help needed, she would be first in the queue.

Always busy and full of life, despite having cared for two sons, Mary and her friend Joyce were always to be found washing up, making tea and helping out generally.

For the last few years, Mary and her friends had enjoyed coming along to Care Lunch. It was a pleasure to be able to wait on her for a change!

Mary also attended Thursday Keep Fit at Winchester Road and had long been a supporter of the Keep Fit Association.

She will be sorely missed.

Barbara Chapman

Church Flowers

Each week we have flowers in the church – on the pedestal and in the porch. These are arranged by a band of people and are often in memory of someone who has been close to a member of the congregation and is no longer with us, or they may be in celebration of a wedding anniversary or a special birthday.

The person requesting the flowers pays for them that week, usually between £10 – £15, although if special flowers are requested this can rise. In the weeks between requests, the money comes from the Flower Fund which is replenished from Church funds each year.

When flowers are in celebration or memory, an announcement is included in that week’s notices. If anyone would like to have the flowers for any reason, please see Sylvia Dixon who will arrange a possible date for you, or the nearest to it as your date may already be taken.

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm.

Wednesday 6^th December: Pat O’Sullivan: Flowers with a Christmas Theme

Wednesday 20^th December: Party

Wednesday 3^rd January: Beetle Drive

Wednesday 17^th January: Maureen Poole: Where my caravan has rested

How does Good King Wenceslas like his pizzas?

Deep pan, crisp and even!

CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING: 17^th October 2017

Ministerial Matters– Hilary noted that there had been a number of natural disasters as well as the ongoing refugee situation in Myanmar/Bangladesh. The church had responded generously to the appeals for financial help. Conference had suggested that circuits or churches should have a day of prayer and fasting to consider either a ‘Growth Plan’ or an ‘end of life plan’, the latter for churches intending to close.

The usual reports from church committees were received the main points from each are given below.

Outreach- the Superintendent had noted the concern of the church about the fairness of preaching appointments by ministers allocated to each church. The committee suggested that more spaces for wheelchair users should be made. In discussion the council members made several suggestions including replacing more of the pews, or all of the pews with chairs which would give us more flexibility. This matter will be discussed at the Annual Church Meeting next year. It was suggested that members of the congregation should give their views (in writing or verbally) to Alex Fletcher or Allen Steel so that a discussion document can be published in Winchester News to encourage thought and discussion about the different suggestions ahead of the meeting. A suggestion by ‘Young Church’ for an interactive Nativity Eve service with a wider appeal would be taken forward by Rachel Lampard and Maureen Duncan. A suggested Church ‘Away Weekend’ will be considered.

Resources- Roger Pettit took the council through the range or repairs completed and pending. The security of the doors and recent thefts were discussed but no decisions were reached, greater vigilance by people using the premises is still needed. The facility to leave the Wickham Road door on the latch would be removed to encourage people to use the main entrance in Winchester Road. The installation of a CCTV system would be explored.

Finance- our Treasurer Jean Norton reported a healthy balance. The Pilgrims Way account was now in credit with one loan outstanding and the income from lettings was increasing.

Churches together in Highams Park – A new minister of the Baptist Church will start in February and Hilary would look into our link with the Roman Catholic Church. A Bereavement service would be held on Dec 3^rd at Winchester Road.

Circuit Matters – Dallion Roye (Circuit Steward) reported that the circuit was unable to obtain a minister to serve the Loughton Church and with the Revd Cole-Njie suspended from duties the circuit and the present team of ministers were under increased pressure. Revd Armstrong Fummey (a supernumerary minister) will return to active ministry to help the situation and Revd. David Jebb (Romford Circuit) will be our acting Superintendent.

A.O.B. Security of Care Lunch Cupboard and the location of an additional freezer for use by Days4You and who would pay for it were discussed. Roger Pettit will take up the matter.

Reflections of a Vice President.

The Council was interested to hear Rachel Lampard talk about her year travelling around the country as Vice President. She participated in large events, spoke for the church on important issues and saw the church in action, vibrant churches working with their communities from caring and play centres to community cafes and foodbanks. All this against a background of falling numbers and fewer ministers who are being stretched more thinly.

Winchester Road Church needs to have a ‘growth plan’ which needs to recognise that it has an ageing congregation, that it relies on active retired people and that there aren’t many coming up behind them to take their place. She suggested three things for reflection;

Commitment to prayer and small groups, (house groups), in John Wesley’s day the church grew from ‘class meetings’ where people prayed together, discussed and shared their lives in Christ.
Sharing personal experiences of faith is an encouragement to others. ‘What God has done for me this week’, speaking without embarrassment about God in our daily life.
Being receptive to change. We should recognise how unaware people in our community are about what goes on here. A growing church will look very different. Are we receptive to changes in worship, in the ways our premises are used, in the work we do and how we do it. For us to grow we need to prioritise the young and involve them more in the life of the church and to reach out to the people who use our premises.

She was worried about the decline in membership but felt that ‘God was not yet finished with the Methodist Church!’

Allen Steel

The Lighthouse Methodist Church will be showing ‘Black Nativity’ on Saturday 9^th December, starting at 7.30pm 120 Markhouse Road, Walthamstow, E17 8BQ

Memory Book

Please remember to add names to our Memory Book which is now placed in the Church Entrance in Winchester Road.

There is no order, just add any names that come to mind.

Barbara Chapman

Christmas Tree Festival

Join North Chingford Methodist Church for their annual Christmas Tree festival. See the church filled with real Christmas trees decorated by church members and local organisations. A lovely family event.

Saturday 9^th December at 10am.

North Chingford Methodist Church, Station Road, E4 7BJ

PEW CARDS

I will be replacing the cards in the pews in the New Year.
If you have a favourite line from a hymn or the bible please let me know.
I will put boxes for suggestions at the back of the church and in the Hub.

Jan Dent

Other Christmas dates in Highams Park

Sat 17^th December: Christmas Fayre in Highams Park at Signal walk and Station Car Park – with stalls and activities from 11am -5pm and Carols at 4pm

Churches in Highams Park

Below are the services at All Saints and Cavendish Baptist Church during the Christmas period. Many of the services are at the same time as our services, but as we celebrate Christmas it will be good to think of others who are worshipping in the community. There are also some other services at times that we may wish to attend.

All Saints

15^th December, 6.30pm: Christingle Service
17^th December, 10.30am: 6 lessons and carols
24^th December, 10.30am: Nativity and lighting Christmas Tree
24^th December, 11.30pm: Midnight Communion
25^th December, 10.30am: All Age Holy Communion

Cavendish Baptist Church

17^th December, 10.00am: Nativity
17^th December, 6pm: Carol Service
24^th December, 11.30pm: Midnight Communion
25^th December, 10am: Christmas Morning Celebration

New Church Representative on Scout & Guide Group Executive Committee

We may have said ‘Goodbye’ and ‘Thank you’ to Hazel as our Beaver Leader for 30 years, but she does not escape that easily!

She has now taken on my job as Church Representative on the Scout and Guide Group Executive Committee. (A job I did for 33 years!)

Some things really are “not just for Christmas!”

Barbara Chapman

The Christmas Tree

This edition of Winchester News is published on the first Sunday in Advent, the season when we can joyfully anticipate the birth of Jesus. It is the time to take down the artificial Christmas tree and decorations from the loft, or to buy a real spruce tree to decorate. At the darkest time of the year in the pre-Christian era people brought greenery into their homes in the belief that it would encourage the trees and fields to break into new life. Many Christians took over the custom saying that the evergreen trees and plants represented the everlasting love of God, though the practice was opposed by the early medieval church which was hostile to all pagan ideas.

The Christmas Tree seems to have originated in either the Baltic countries or Germany and there are a number of legends and stories claiming the credit. St. Boniface who was born in 8th century Saxon England travelled to southern Germany where he played a key role in the conversion of the people to Christianity. One day he came across a pagan community worshipping an oak tree and in anger Boniface grabbed an axe and cut down the tree. Different versions claim either, that he planted a fir tree in its place, or the fir grew out of the roots of the oak. So the next winter people and the next year decorated the fir tree or yew branches to celebrate Christmas. In some communities slender wooden pyramids were made and lighted candles placed on them to remind households that Jesus was the light of the world just as we light a candle at the beginning of our morning service.

Another story, for which there is little evidence, concerns the 16th century Protestant Reformer Martin Luther. One windy evening when walking through a pine forest the wind parted the branches of the conifers above him giving a flickering view of the stars. Martin encouraged believers to decorate their trees or branches with tiny candles to remind them of their ultimate destination, heaven. This tradition was taken to America by German Lutheran Christians who settled in eastern America. In 1882 Edward Johnson of the Edison Electric company made a chain of bulbs, each the size of a walnut, to decorate a Christmas tree to replace the hazardous naked candle flame. At first they were expensive but cheaper versions with smaller bulbs were mass produced in the 1930’s and candles were phased out. I still have a small metal clip-on candle holder from our tree saved from my childhood though I don’t remember the candle ever being lit.

Another German folk tale tells of a poor widow who could not afford to decorate the pine branches her children had brought into the home on Christmas Eve but when the children awoke the next morning they found that spiders had spun webs on it. When the sun shone on the frosted webs it gave the tree a sparkling image, ever since Christmas trees have been decorated with tinsel and silver paper.

In 1800 the Queen Charlotte, the German wife of George III, set up a Christmas tree made from Yew branches at Queen’s Lodge Windsor, the first recorded account of Christmas tree in this country. However the credit for popularising the tree goes to Prince Albert and Queen Victoria, both of whom had German ancestors, for during the 1840’s and 1850s pictures were published showing them with their children around a Christmas Tree. From then on Christmas trees were embedded in our celebration of Christmas.

I remember from my school days that at the final assembly before the Christmas holiday we were expected to take turns singing a carol in our second foreign language, Latin, German or Spanish. We German scholars sometimes sang the German song about the fir tree, O Tannenbaum. This German song was written by Ernst Anschutz was inspired by a folk song about a pine tree though it is not a Christmas tree it begins……

O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum, Wie treu sind deine blätter Du grunst nich zur Sommerzeit Nein, auch in winter, wenn es schneit.

O pine tree, O pine tree

How true are your leaves

You are green not only in summer time

No, also in winter when it snows

O Tannenbaum shares its tune with the socialist anthem The Red Flag which begins The people’s flag is deepest red, It shrouded oft our martyred dead. Inevitably when Tannenbaum was sung at school there were some who belted out the bravado last line of the chorus Though cowards flinch and traitors sneer, We’ll keep the red flag flying here. The German song is still a popular song for the Christmas season, especially in America where there is a well-known version by Nat King Cole, and there are recordings made by Andrea Bocelli, Charlotte Church and the jazz pianist Dave Brubeck.

Finally a personal reminiscence. My parents bought a small artificial tree from Woolworths for six old pence to mark my first Christmas which I still put out every year though it is now rather tattty, this year it will celebrate its eightieth Christmas!

Allen Steel, December 2017

Cookie Club – ‘Using God’s Gifts’

Our session one Sunday focussed on the parable of a man who, before going away, gives his slaves talents (coins). One has five, one has two and one slave has just one. On his return he asks the slaves what they have done with the talents. Two have used them to double their money but the slave who was given just one talent buried it for safe keeping. (Matthew 25: 14-30)

In pairs the children built towers of bricks. There were some good solid towers but one pair took a risk and built a very tall tower. The children discussed times when they have been called to take a risk, including some games, that they enjoy playing. One girl spoke about playing with another girl, at school, who is often on her own, even when her ‘long time’ friend is not happy with this. She explained it clearly saying “Sometimes you have to do the right thing even when someone else doesn’t agree with it!”

They were then given a selection of materials and asked to use them to make something special. The imagination shown was excellent. From ‘pom-pom’ creatures in a small car, a sheep, rockets to a range of collage pictures, they were all very individual, and certainly showed their talents (see pictures on next page).

God sometimes calls us to do things that are outside our comfort zone. Are we prepared to use what we are given even if sometimes it means taking a risk?

We hope you will be able to come along to see the Young Church presentation of the Nativity during the morning service on 17^th December.

Jan Dent

NOVEMBER 2017 NEWSLETTER

WORSHIP DURING NOVEMBER

Sunday 5th 10.30am Mrs Gillian Farnfield

All Age Worship & Church Parade

Sunday 12th 10.30am Mr Leo Cheng

Remembrance Sunday

6.30pm Rev Hilary Cheng

Sunday 19th 10.30am Rev Hilary Cheng

Sacrament

Women against Violence Sunday

Sunday 26th 10.30am Mr David Hobbs

Letter from our Minister

Dear Everyone,

November is often referred to as the month of Remembrance. At school, children learn about Guy Fawkes and of the plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament. November 5th has come to be known as Bonfire Night, but as I write in late October we have heard fireworks being set off just up the road.

November would not be the same without the annual national memorial to remember those who gave their lives in the Great War and World War II. We recall the sacrifice that such men and women made so that we could enjoy the freedom we have today. We should not accept this lightly but should remember the price that was paid for us through the bravery of the war heroes.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of Dunkirk, a time when we remember British troops being driven onto the beaches and then into the English Channel as they retreated from the enemy. Many men and maybe some women, who had boats, took them across the channel to collect the soldiers who were being forced off the land, and stranded on the beaches of northern France.

It was a remarkable rescue operation, and the lives of many soldiers were saved by the bravery and resilience of those who went to pick them up and bring them back to England. Smaller boats were needed to collect the men from the shallow beaches and waters, and take them to bigger ships waiting in deeper water. Over 330,000 men were rescued during the operation, which Winston Churchill referred to as a miracle.

Having lived and worked for two years in a war zone, I am always grateful to service men and women who serve their country in pursuit of world peace, and in the protection of civilians.

At this time of year, as the days get shorter, and the nights are longer, I am reminded of the sacrifice that Jesus made, in order that there might be peace on earth, and so that the people of his day, and then down through the centuries might enjoy the freedom that we have today. It was a huge sacrifice, and it must have been agonizing for Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane as we hear Jesus say, ’Father let this cup pass from me, but not my will but yours be done’. I am so grateful that Jesus went to the cross for us, taking with him the sins of the world, and that through his death, and then the resurrection, he opened the way to God in heaven, through the forgiveness of sins, and then to eternal life.

Sometimes, I wonder how the world would look today, if Jesus had said ‘No’ to the cross….The world would be a very different place to what we know in 2017.

British summertime ended and so we turned the clocks back an hour; pause for a moment, and thank God for those who gave their lives so that we could have life today.

Remembering you all,

Hilary

Prayer to remind us to remember By Daphne Kitching

Lord,

At this remembrance time, we remember those who gave their lives in the service and protection of their country, whether many years ago, or in more recent conflicts. We thank you for them and pray for those who loved them.

The death of a loved one, whatever the cause, changes our lives forever and we walk an unchosen path. There are wonderful memories, times to be thankful, but nothing takes away the pain and empty space every day. Thank you, Lord, for understanding our loss.

And Lord, we remember most of all your death on the cross. We thank you that in this remembering we have hope and meaning and confidence because you rose again; you overcame death. If we put our trust in you we shall live with you forever. Lord at our saddest times, help us to remember your victory and the bigger picture!

In Jesus name,

Amen.

2017 Dates for your diary

First & Third Wednesday of each month: Open Fellowship, 2.30-4pm (see page 8)

Every Friday during term time: Coffee Morning, 10am-12noon, to support local Parkinson’s Group

Sun 5th November: JMA; Christmas Shoebox service; Church Parade

Fri 24th November: Bazaar prep, 9-11am (see page 9)

Sat 25th November: Bazaar, 10am-3.30pm (3.30-5.30pm-ish clear up)

Mon 4th December: Outreach Committee, 7.30 for 7.45pm start (rescheduled from 28th November)

Sun 10th December: Carol Service, 4pm

Sun 17th December: Nativity, 10.30am

PEW CARDS

Jan Dent

OUR STEWARDS AND SENIOR STEWARDS

Senior Stewards: Janet Dawe and Samuel Ebden

Stewards: Hazel Mathews, Carol and Dumisani Moyo, Carole Merriman, Gillian Farnfield, Jonathan Daniels

Grand Christmas Bazaar

Saturday 25th November

10am to 3.30pm

Wonderful selection of Christmas Fayre

Lunch, Refreshments & Homemade Cakes

Come & visit Father Christmas in his Grotto

Admission 50p, Children Free

Winchester Road Methodist Church

Christmas Bazaar Raffle – Hamper Donations

As in previous years, I am hoping to create an amazing hamper as our first prize in the raffle and hope that you will be as generous as you have in previous years and kindly donate luxury items for the hamper.

If you are able and willing to make a donation to the hamper can you please call me on 07702165456 or email me at deborah_crawford@hotmail.com so that I can keep a list and ensure that we do not duplicate items.

Donations need to be with me by 12th November so that I have time to package the hamper but please get in touch as soon as possible so that I know what I can expect to receive.

Thank you for your support.

Debbie

Winchester Road Christmas Bazaar: Saturday 25th November 2017

Thank you to everyone who has already been donating items, or offered cakes or support in any way – it is very much appreciated.

I have included again the list of items that we collect and the help that we need around the Bazaar day itself.If you have items to donate then I can collect them at church on Sundays, or come at see me at Brownies on Mondays (6 – 7.30pm). If you have any large items then it would be appreciated if you could save them for bazaar week – that would be a great help.

Bric-a-brac	Please bring items to the church or contact Sarah Hayward (020 8527 7778) for collection.
Second Hand Toys	Please bring items to the church or contact Sarah Hayward (020 8527 7778) for collection.
DVDs, CDs, Computer games	Please bring these to church.
Desserts & Cakes	Please see Pat Ovenden and Sarah Hayward with details of anything you are prepared to make or donate for the refreshments or cake stalls.
New and Nearly New Items	We will be running a ‘Christmas Gifts’ stall again this year. Please bring any items to the church.
Jewellery	Please give any second hand jewellery to Alex Fletcher – the sooner the better please as it takes a while to prepare.
Books	If you have books to donate then Joan would appreciate these coming down to the church in the weeks ahead of the bazaar so she has time to sort them.
Friday 24th November 9am till 11am	We need a couple of able bodied people to help move all of the items downstairs to the stalls.
Saturday 25th November 10am till 3.30pm	I co-ordinate people to run 12 of our bazaar stalls and rely on people signing up to a rota for this. If you are able to help in any way then please see me.
Saturday 25th November at 3.30pm	Help to take down tables, move items upstairs and generally clear up for approximately 2 hours.

Sarah Hayward

020 8527 7778

Friday Coffee Mornings

(Term time only)

10:00 – 12:00

Coffee or Tea, and biscuit 50p

All money raised will be donated to charity

Last year we raised £377.31 for the local Multiple Sclerosis group.

This year our first nominated charity is:

Parkinson’s Society

This group meets on our premises and raises money for therapy and to support those suffering with Parkinson’s Disease

Our ‘Special’ coffee morning in September raised

£295 for Macmillan Cancer Support

Our ‘Special’ coffee morning in October raised

£741 for Julie’s Cancer Fund

Congratulations to Louise and husband Jana

on the birth of their son Micah on 5 October (and congratulations too to big sister Rosa).

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm.

Wednesday 1st November: Pat & David Ovenden: Holiday in Vietnam

Wednesday 15th November: Jennifer Plummer: Sweets & Chocolate

Wednesday 6th December: Pat O’Sullivan: Flowers with a Christmas Theme

Wednesday 20th December: Party

Craft Fair

A grand total of £1,320.15 was raised from the Craft Fair on 7th October. (£487.00 of this total will actually go into Bazaar figure from Sharon, Lindy & Janice’s stalls.)

Thank you to Debbie for organising and everyone who helped with the preparation and on the day.

Thanks….

My contribution to Winchester News in November usually has the theme of Remembrance but this year, thanks to Hilary Cheng, my subject is ‘Thanks‘. I try to remember to say thank you to people for their everyday kindnesses, the person who holds the door to let me through, the motorist who pulls into a gap to let me pass or the young person who gives up his/her underground seat for me. As a child I was drilled by my mother to write ‘Thank You letters’ for the presents received at Christmas or on my birthday. I still remember writing to an ancient aunt thanking her for the hand knitted socks which always had lumpy uncomfortable toes. I tried to bury them at the bottom of my sock drawer. Today from my experience thanks from young people come as a line of text by phone or as an email sentence.

Each autumn most churches hold a Harvest Thanksgiving Service (or Harvest Festival) and the church is decorated with the produce of God’s creation. In America, Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November (Nov 23rd this year). The celebration can be traced back to a shared harvest feast celebrated by the first settlers at Plymouth Massachusetts in 1621. Abraham Lincoln introduced it as national holiday in 1863 as a ‘Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens’.

At our service in September Hilary introduced us to an updated version of the old German hymn, We plough the fields and scatter the good seed on the land (Singing the Faith [StF] hymn 130). As someone anchored to a hymnbook I realised partway through the verse that I was singing different words to most of the congregation, for the words on the screen were different from those in the book. Thanks to the BBC’s excellent programme ‘Countryfile’ I know that farming has changed since the old harvest hymns were written and it is not surprising that a new version would be written using the same tune (Wir pflűgen).

We plough the fields with tractors

with drills we sow the land

But growth is still the wondrous gift

of God’s almighty hand.

We add our fertilisers

to help the growing grain ;

But for its full fruition

It needs God’s sun and rain.

The chorus which follows, All good gifts around us are sent from heaven above is the same as in the original hymn by Matthias Claudius, a German Lutheran Pastor who wrote it as a poem in 1782. It was translated and published by Jane Campbell in 1861 and became popular in schools and Sunday schools. The modern version above was written by Frank Low. The poet Laureate John Betjemen parodied the hymn in an attack on modern farming methods, ‘We spray the fields and scatter the poison on the land’.

A friend who plays the hymns for another Methodist Church offered me a version with the opening verse

Here in the modern city;

we have no fields to plough

Our food is grown by others,

and comes we know not how;

And yet we want to offer

our harvest praise today,

For still in God’s creation

we have our part to play.

I have a fondness for a verse from a Victorian hymn, To thee, O Lord, our hearts we raise (StF 129) written by William Chatterton Dix, thanks to the images he uses.

Bright robes of gold the fields adorn,

the hills with joy are ringing,

the valleys stand so thick with corn

that even they are singing.

To return to my theme, Hilary included the best known and most often sung harvest hymn in the service for us to share which was written by the nineteenth century cleric and scholar Henry Alford (Stf 123).

Come you thankful people come,

raise the song of harvest home.

Fruit and crops are gathered in

safe before the winter storms begin.

Allen Steel, November 2017

Donations made between 1 September 2016 to 31 August 2017

At the request of Church Council I have detailed below the donations made by the Church during the last financial year.

Jean Norton – Treasurer

Beneficiary	Specific collections/ donations received	Additional donations from internal funds	Total paid to organisation
MHA	£ 155.20	£ 440.00	£ 595.20
JMA	£ 2,057.87	£ 0.00	£ 2,057.87
Crest	£ 78.90	£ 545.00	£ 623.90
The Branches	£ 0.00	£ 195.00	£ 195.00
Christian Aid	£ 88.00	£ 0.00	£ 88.00
T4U	£ 520.73	£ 4.27	£ 525.00
Home Missions	£ 0.00	£ 335.00	£ 335.00
MAP	£ 0.00	£ 485.00	£ 485.00
Haven House	£ 78.90	£ 0.00	£ 78.90
MS Action	£ 377.31	£ 0.00	£ 377.31
Circuit	£ 11.15	£ 513.50	£ 524.65
Sudan	£ 397.00	£ 10.00	£ 407.00
World Missions	£ 429.00	£ 665.00	£ 1,094.00
WFYFC	£ 0.00	£ 195.00	£ 195.00
LPMA	£ 0.00	£ 195.00	£ 195.00
All We Can	£ 463.16	£ 570.00	£ 1,033.16
Mercy ships	£ 0.00	£ 335.00	£ 335.00
Olives -African Meals	£ 424.53	£ 0.00	£ 424.53
Grenfell Tower	£ 175.00	£ 100.00	£ 275.00
Mmsape	£ 167.00	£ 0.00	£ 167.00
Haiti	£ 934.09	£ 55.00	£ 989.09
Nigeria	£ 180.00	£ 180.00	£ 180.00
	£ 6,357.84	£ 4,822.77	£ 11,180.61
Donations to Methodist organisations:			£6,502.19
Donations to non-Methodist organisations:			£4,678.42
			£11,180.61

STAMPS

I collect used postage stamps – British as well as foreign – and they are sold to raise money for Parkinson’s UK. Everyone must get some, especially at Christmas! I shall be happy to receive them at any time.

Joyce Roden

There was a very gracious lady who was posting an old family Bible to her brother in another part of the country.

‘Is there anything breakable in here?’ asked the postal clerk.

The lady thought for a moment, and replied: ‘Only the Ten Commandments.’

Train to be named after John Wesley

A competition was run earlier this year by the Bristol Post and the Great Western Railway (GWR) who asked locals to nominate ‘100 Great Westerners’, with the top 50 being honoured by having one of the GWR’s new fleet of trains named after them.

The team at The New Room in Bristol (also known as John Wesley’s Chapel) sent a submission for John Wesley, co-founder of the Methodist Church, to be recognised as a Great Westerner and he was announced as one of the top 50.

The Queen and Prince Philip will celebrate their Platinum Anniversary this month following their marriage 70 years ago on 20th November 1947.

Our Church War Memorial

I am a keen genealogist and love researching the family trees of anyone who will let me. One day coming to church I passed the war memorial near the Wickham Road door and began to wonder about the men listed. This is what I found: –

ARCHIBALD KEITH ANDREWS died aged 23 at Gallipoli on 13th September 1915. He was a private in the Essex Regiment. In the 1911 census he was living in Woodend Road, Walthamstow with his widowed mother Jane and two siblings. He worked at the Xylonite Works.

HENRY RICHARD SHOWELL died aged 40 in France on 17th April 1918. He was a corporal in the Royal Garrison Artillery. In the 1911 census he was living at 3 Preston Ave, Highams Park aged 33 with his wife Beatrice. He was a shoe manufacturer’s warehouseman.

ALBERT THOMAS GILLMORE died aged 20 at sea in 1915. He was a private in the Essex Regiment. In the 1911 census he was living at 63 Spencer Road, Walthamstow with his parents, William and Mary Ann and six siblings. He was a messenger for Lloyds shipping office.

HAROLD STANLEY HOWES died aged 21 in France on 26th July 1917. He was a Gunner in the Royal Horse Artillery. In 1911 he was living at 171 Winchester Road, Highams Park with his parents and seven siblings. He was a house painter.

LESLIE ERNEST C. WILLIAMS died aged 18 in France on 10th August 1918. He was a Rifleman in the Rifle Brigade. In 1911 he was living at 170 Winchester Road, Highams Park with his parents and four siblings.

JAMES WILLIAM HOWELL died aged 27 in 1917. He was a Rifleman in the Rifle Brigade. In 1911 he was living at 15 Colville Road, Leytonstone with his parents and two siblings.

ALBERT HENRY TASMAN died aged 21 on 24th April 1917 in France. He was a private in the London Regiment. In 1911 he was living at 56 Wickham Road with his parents. He was a fruiterer’s errand boy.

BERNARD MAURICE FOLKES died aged 18 on 10th September 1918 in France. He was a Rifleman in the Rifle Brigade. In 1911 he was living at 134 Brookscroft Road, Walthamstow with his parents and six siblings.

Perhaps on Remembrance Day it will help us to remember these young men more easily now we know more about them.

Wouldn’t it be interesting now to find out how they were connected to Winchester Road Methodist Church?

Janet Dawe

RAINBOWS IS 30

Rainbows from the Highams Park District (comprising of the 2nd, 4th and 5th Highams Park Rainbow units) celebrated Rainbows’ 30th birthday by having a party during the afternoon of Sunday 22nd October.

The Highams Park District party was one of a number of activities taking place to mark 30 years since the start of Rainbows, the youngest age group in Girlguiding.

On arrival, the girls decorated party bags with glitter and ‘pearl’ stickers before making a Pearl bracelet and an edible ‘Pot of Gold’. They then hunted for a pearl amongst some sand, and went on a Rainbow Rabbit hunt.

By this time, ‘Magic Billy’ had arrived and proceeded to amaze the girls with a variety of magic tricks including Guess the Card and Disappearing Objects. One trick that had them all baffled was where he asked one girl to hold a little fluffy red ball in her hand, squeeze it tight and then when she reopened her hand there were two balls. This went on until there were so many they were falling out of her hand.

His grand finale included the appearance of two doves from a handkerchief which then emerged from a box as a rabbit. The girls all got the chance to make a fuss of the rabbit after the performance.

After some snacks and jelly and ice cream, the girls all sang ‘Happy Birthday’ and blew out the candle on their beautiful birthday cake (kindly made and decorated by Janice Pettit).

A game of Pass the Parcel followed and then the girls all pulled the strings of a Rainbow piñata before singing the Rainbow Song and going home.

Thanks to Jean Norton who organised all the activities for the party. A very fun time was had by all the girls!

The Lord is my Shepherd – Psalm 23 explained

The Lord is my Shepherd

That’s Relationship!

I shall not want

That’s Supply!

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures

That’s Rest!

He leadeth me beside the still waters

That’s Refreshment!

He restoreth my soul

That’s Healing!

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness

That’s Guidance!

For His name sake

That’s Purpose!

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death

That’s Testing!

I will fear no evil

That’s Protection!

For Thou art with me

That’s Faithfulness!

Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me

That’s Discipline!

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies

That’s Hope!

Thou annointest my head with oil

That’s Consecration!

My cup runneth over

That’s Abundance!

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life

That’s Blessing!

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord

That’s Security!

Forever

That’s Eternity!

~Author Unknown~

JMA

During the service on 5th November we will be collecting

pennies for Junior Mission for All (JMA).

JMA was created so that children would not be excluded from supporting and learning about the mission of the Church.

It is also about sharing the insights of God’s people all over the world with children in our churches.

The JMA Promise is to:

Learn, pray and serve with the world-wide Church of Jesus Christ.

Please see Maureen Duncan if you are interested in becoming a JMA collector.

The Europeans and the Juggler

An Englishman, a Frenchman, a Spaniard and a German are all standing watching a street performer do some excellent juggling.

The juggler notices that the four gentlemen have a poor view, so he stands up on a large wooden box and calls out, “Can you all see me now?”

“Yes.”

“Oui.”

“Si.”

“Ja.”

My friend really changed when she became a vegetarian –

it’s like I’ve never seen herbivore.

OCTOBER 2017 NEWSLETTER

WORSHIP DURING OCTOBER

Sunday 1st 10.30am Rev Dr John Lampard

Sacrament

Sunday 8th 10.30am Rev Hilary Cheng

6.30pm Rev Hilary Cheng

Sunday 15th 10.30am Rev Dr Keith Riglin

Sunday 22nd 10.30am Ms Audria White

Sunday 29th 10.30am Rev Hilary Cheng

Sacrament (going forward communion)

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

October is a month usually associated with Autumnal colours and at the end of the month, Halloween. But this year, 31st October marks a very special occasion. It is five hundred years since the Reformation took place.

On 31st October 1517, a German Monk named Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of All Saints’ Church in Wittenberg, Electorate of Saxony. The church began to ‘re-form’ its institution and practice, and there was a split within the church. Some people remained faithful to the Catholic Church and the followers of Martin Luther became known as Protestants.

In many of our cities, town and villages, you will find a variety of churches, not just the Catholic and Anglican churches, but Methodist, Baptist, United Reformed, Congregational and other denominations that have evolved since the Protestant Church came into being.

Whilst all the denominations are different in their practices, there is much that we do that is similar and enable us to share in worship together celebrating the rich diversity of the church.

As you will be aware, not all churches agree on everything all the time. The early Church tells of stories of division, in the Book of Acts, and that was 1900 years ago! Even within one congregation, there can be significant differences of opinion which we have to work through so that we can run smoothly as a church family.

Throughout the year there are services that are compiled by Churches Together. Please watch out for these services as they come along and support them if you can. In January, the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is shared between the churches with acts of worship taking place in different denominational buildings. Watch out for these being advertised in the New Year.

As ‘the Church’, we aim to set an example, to be followers of Christ, even when we have a difference of opinion. May it be so in our churches too. We will not agree all the time on everything, but by working together, we can be the Body of Christ that Jesus calls us to be.

Enjoy the Autumn.

Hilary

‘Be glad, people of Zion, rejoice in the Lord your God, for he has given you the autumn rains because he is faithful.

He sends you abundant showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before.’ Joel 2:23

Thank you prayer

By Daphne Kitching

Father,

You are almighty and all powerful. You created the universe and yet you love and care for each one of us. Thank you.

Thank you for loving us so much that you sent your precious Son Jesus to save us when we couldn’t save ourselves.

Thank you for offering life forever with you to all who trust in Jesus and what He did on the cross.

Thank you for today. Help us to use it to reflect your love to others.

In Jesus name,

Amen.

OUR STEWARDS AND SENIOR STEWARDS

Senior Stewards: Janet Dawe and Samuel Ebden
Stewards: Hazel Mathews, Carol and Dumisani Moyo, Carole Merriman, Gillian Farnfield, Jonathan Daniels

2017 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

First & Third Wednesday of each month: Open Fellowship, 2.30-4pm (see page 8)

Every Friday during term time: Coffee Morning, 10am-12noon, to support local Parkinson’s Group

Sat 7th October: Craft Fair, 10am – 3pm

Fri 13th October: Special Coffee Morning to support local mum Julie’s cancer treatment fund, 10am-12noon

Sat 14th October: Mercy Ships Tour, Loughton Methodist Church, 7.30pm

Mon 16th October: Girlguiding volunteer open evening, between 6.15-9pm

Tues 17th October: Church Council, 7.15 for 7.30pm start

Thurs 19th October: Girlguiding volunteer open evening, between 6.30-9pm

Sat 28th October: Bazaar prep, 1pm

Sun 5th November: JMA; Christmas Shoebox service; Church Parade

Fri 24th November: Bazaar prep, 9-11am

Sat 25th November: Bazaar, 10am-3.30pm (3.30-5.30pm-ish clear up)

Tues 28th November: Outreach Committee, 7.30 for 7.45pm start

Sun 10th December: Carol Service, 4pm

Sun 17th December: Nativity, 10.30am

PEW CARDS:

I will be replacing the cards in the pews in the New Year.

If you have a favourite line from a hymn or the bible please let me know.

I will put boxes for suggestions at the back of the church and in the Hub.

Jan Dent

Fundraising Coffee Morning

Friday 13th October

10am – 12noon

Winchester Road Methodist Church

Please join us for a special coffee morning to continue our fundraising for local mum, Julie’s Cancer Treatment Fund.

Invite your family and friends…everyone is welcome!!

Christmas Bazaar Raffle – Hamper Donations please

Donations need to be with me by 12th November so that I have time to package the hamper but please get in touch as soon as possible so that I know what I can expect to receive.

Thank you for your support.

Debbie

Ron Clarke

Since his passing many people have spoken to me about Ron and what came through was the great affection and high regard in which he was held by all. The words most frequently used were, he was always ready with a kind word or words of encouragement, an outgoing friendly man, someone who took great delight in the achievements of the members of our congregation. When he and Dorothy came to Highams Park from east London and joined Winchester Road he brought with him an enthusiasm for scouting. In conversation he enjoyed telling stories of his scout camping exploits. He loved it when there was good turnout at Church parades and maintained an interest in the ongoing work of the uniformed organisations of which he had once been a part.

He served as a church steward and is remembered as standing on the steps greeting people as they came to service. Over the years he made himself known to newcomers to our congregation to make them feel welcomed into the fellowship of the church. Alongside this he was a practical man, described by someone who said he was always ready with a screwdriver. All churches need people to take on the small, often un-noticed tasks which enable it to function and Ron was one of these special people. Many of you recalled the different roles he undertook including organising the Saturday caretaking rota, distributing the collection envelopes, leading the bazaar ‘washing uppers’ and I am sure others which I haven’t been told about.

He had two great enthusiasms; Bowls both outdoor at Chingford and playing short mat bowls at Winchester Road, and Fuchsia growing. Many of us have fuchsias bought at the Plant Sale which Ron grew to help church funds. In recent years health problems prevented him enjoying these two activities. To cope with his mobility problems he bought an invalid vehicle which enabled him to come to church each week or drive around the district, we will miss him manoeuvring his way through the hub on his way home after the service. This was testimony to his determination to carry on doing the things he enjoyed.

Ron had a deeply held religious faith and was always willing to discuss the Sunday sermon with you or urge you to read the books written by the former Bishop of Durham, Rev. Tom Wright. A kind, unassuming outgoing man, described by one member as a real Christian gentleman he will be greatly missed. We send out love to Dorothy as she carries on her life without Ron, who appropriately for a skilled jewellery craftsman was able to celebrate their Diamond Wedding with her.

Allen Steel

RON CLARKE

Dorothy and all the family thank everyone for their prayers, cards and caring messages following Ron’s death in Bart’s Hospital. He had been quite ill for some time and is now at peace.

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm.

Wednesday 4th October: Rev Kevin Swain: A South Pacific Adventure

Wednesday 20th October: David Cundall: Nigerian Health Care Project

Wednesday 1st November: Pat & David Ovenden: Holiday in Vietnam

Wednesday 15th November: Jennifer Plummer: Sweets & Chocolate

Winchester Road Christmas Bazaar: Saturday 25th November 2017

It’s time to start the countdown to the Christmas Bazaar which this year is being held on the 25th November. As always, I have a list of the items that we are starting to collect.

If you have items to donate then I can collect them at church on Sundays, or come and see me at Brownies on Mondays (6 – 7.30pm). If you have any large items then it would be appreciated if you could save them for bazaar week – that would be a great help.

Bric-a-brac Please bring items to the church or contact Sarah Hayward on 020 8527 7778 for collection.

Second Hand Toys Please bring items to the church or contact Sarah Hayward on 020 8527 7778 for collection.

DVDs, CDs, Computer games Please bring these to church

Desserts & Cakes Please see Pat Ovenden & Sarah Hayward with details of anything you are prepared to make or donate for the refreshments or cake stalls.

New and Nearly New Items We will be running a ‘Christmas Gifts’ stall again this year. Please bring any items to the church.

Jewellery

Please give any second hand jewellery to Alex Fletcher – the sooner the better please as it takes a while to prepare.

Books If you have books to donate then Joan would appreciate these coming down to the church in the weeks ahead of the bazaar so she has time to sort them.

Saturday 28th October at 1pm Please see Sarah if you are able to help with the sorting of the items that have been donated and are stored in various places around the building. The decorations are also going up on this day.

Friday 24th November 9am till 11am We need a couple of able bodied people to help move all of the items downstairs to the stalls.

Saturday 25th November at 3.30pm Help to take down tables, move items upstairs and generally clear up for approximately 2 hours.

Stallholders: I have run out of time this year to organise a meeting so will communicate via e-mail/in person.

Sarah Hayward

020 8527 7778

Methodism in the Pennine Dales

Last month I wrote about Methodist links with the miners of Cornwall prompted by the TV serial Poldark, this month thanks to a booklet for walkers loaned to me by Bruce McSweeney*. Since reading it I have been researching the remote Northumberland dales of the Pennines, an area now in the Tynedale Methodist Circuit. The village of Allendale south west of Newcastle lies in a sparsely populated picturesque landscape of small villages and farmsteads with the occasional neglected chapel. In John Wesley’s time it was occupied by families who made a meagre living from small scale hill farming combined with lead mining. John first visited Newcastle in 1742 where he established Methodist societies, five years later a group of miners walked into Newcastle from Allendale to hear him preach. Soon after Christopher Hopper, one of Wesley’s first local preachers, brought Methodism to Allendale and the surrounding villages helped by Jacob Rowell a young reformed gambler.

In his Journal John Wesley records a visit to the area…

Tuesday, March 24.1748—I rode to Blanchland, about twenty miles from Newcastle. The rough mountains round about were still white with snow. In the midst of them is a small winding valley, through which the Derwent runs. On the edge of this the little town stands, which is indeed little more than a heap of ruins, there seems to have been a large cathedral church, by the vast walls which still remain. I stood in the churchyard, under one side of the building, upon a large tombstone, round which, while I was at prayers, all the congregation kneeled down on the grass. They were gathered out of the lead mines from all parts; many from Allendale, six miles off. A row of little children sat under the opposite wall, all quiet and still. The whole congregation drank in every word with such earnestness in their looks I could not but hope that God will make this wilderness sing for joy.

Initially meetings were held in homes and crafts men’s workshops but during the next 120 years around twenty chapels were built by the two main branches of Methodists, the Wesleyans and primitive Methodists, often one of each in the same village. Lead production reached a peak in the mid-19th century and the population in the area reached six thousand. Conditions were harsh and communities turned to the Methodists for support and comfort.

Improved technical methods and safety measures were introduced into the Allendale mines during the 1840’s by the mine owner’s agent Thomas Sopwith who also made improvements to the houses and introduced schools for the children. Miners were employed in small teams for a few months and were paid a fixed price agreed in advance for the ore. Sopwith was a stickler for punctuality and had a clock tower built in Allendale in an attempt to ensure strict punctuality and employed clerks who recorded the hours the men worked. This lead to the Great Strike of 1849 led by a Primitive Methodist local preacher Joseph Heslop. The minutes of the quarterly meeting held at Swinhope Chapel in the Dales Circuit records the chairman making an outrageous speech in which he urged his hearers to shun those who did not strike saying “If they are sick do not visit them; if they are in need of a doctor do not seek them one; if they die do not bury them!” Within six months the strike collapsed when miners from elsewhere were brought in causing a number of the striking miners who were blacklisted by the mining company to emigrate to become miners in Australia.

The Chapel at Keenley** in Allendale (see photograph) was built in 1750 and rebuilt in 1875 and is the second oldest chapel in use in the world with a Trust Deed dated October 11th 1750. Its current email entry states that Services are held once a fortnight at 6pm (summer) and at 2.30pm (October to Easter). We have five members who regularly attend every service; we are small in number, but strong in faith. Many of the old chapels have been converted into houses or are now in farm use while a few are in community use and some are ruins. The current Tynedale Circuit Plan which covers a larger area lists twenty churches scattered through the dales still in use for worship.

* Methodism in the Allen Dales by Evelyn Charlton published by the North Pennines Heritage Trust

** See Keenley Chapel in Methodist Heritage Handbook p 35

Allen Steel, October 2017

Eat or Heat Food Bank update

The food bank was very busy during the summer and we are extremely grateful for the regular weekly donations that we receive from the local churches, we could not have continued without them as we have only just been managing each week to provide food for the increased number of referrals that we had during August. As fast it as comes in it goes out again, even our pasta mountain is a mere mound now! We have also used the monetary donations received to purchase groceries in bulk.

If you have any people who would be willing to spare a couple of hours each week to help at the food bank please let me know or give them my contact details. We do have a great team of helpers at the food bank from so many of the churches in the local area, which is very encouraging and uplifting as we are able to work together in this venture to help our wider community together.

Julia Adams

Mercy Ships Tour 2017

Saturday 14 October 2017

7.30pm

Loughton Methodist Church, 260 High Road, Loughton, IG10 1RB

A night of music, magic and making a difference.

With Dan Alexander, magician to the stars, & Nicki Rogers, critically acclaimed singer/songwriter

Early Bird ticket (book before 14 Sept) £5 Standard ticket £7

On the Door (subject to availability) £10

Book tickets online* at www.mercyships.org.uk/tour

or email glynis@loughtonmethodist.org.uk

*booking fees apply

To Winchester Road Church,

Thank you for your continued support to the Olives Rehabilitation Centre. Some of the services we have been able to provide because of your support are shown:

It is time for tea break and the children are enjoying a cup of porridge.

Some of our youngest children taking their lunch of rice and beans.

One of our boys washing his hands.

The majority of students here do not receive breakfast before they travel to school and to some of them the meal they take at school is the only meal they have in a day.

Thank you Winchester Road Church for all you do to help.

Michael Nyundo

Olives Rehabilitation Centre, Mombasa, Kenya.

Ever thought about giving something back to the local community?

Want to find out more about volunteering with Girlguiding in Highams Park?

Think you know Girlguiding? Thing again! Girlguiding is the leading charity for girls and young women in the UK. We build girls’ confidence and raise their aspirations. We give them the chance to discover their full potential and encourage them to be a powerful force for good. We give them a space to have fun.

Here in Highams Park we are truly fortunate to have a group of dedicated volunteers that give their time to run our Rainbow, Brownie, Guide and Senior Section Units and over the years, thousands of girls have benefited from attending these groups. However, as volunteers move away or retire it is becoming harder to recruit new help and so we are reaching out to the Highams Park community to ask if you can spare a little time to help change girls’ lives for the better.

Our units meet weekly, but we have volunteering roles to suit everyone; no matter how often or how little time you can offer? To give you a small taste of the sort of things we do and for a chance to meet with our leaders and find out more about how you could get involved, we are running two open evenings. During the evenings there will be a variety of activities to try.

If you would like to find out more about Girlguiding in Highams Park please feel free to drop in to our meetings at Winchester Road on either of the following days:

Monday 16th October between 6.15 pm and 9.00 pm

Thursday 19th October between 6.30 pm and 9.00 pm

I look forward to seeing you there.

Debbie Crawford

District Commissioner, Highams Park Guiding

Care Highams Park

Repair Café Leytonstone

When: Saturday 21 October 2017, 11am – 2pm

Where: St John the Baptist Church Hall, Leytonstone, E11 1HB

Get free repairs and upcycling advice for your bike, electrical items, clothes and furniture, over a slice of cake.

The Repair Café Leytonstone lets residents learn how to fix their electrical items, clothes and bikes for free. There will also be free advice on how to upcycle furniture and clothes, which can all be enjoyed over a slice of cake.altham Forest Council has partnered with The Restart Project, Traid, Shed Homewares and Dr Bike to run the Repair Café. As well as carrying out repairs the experts will also provide free demonstrations and advice so residents can pick up some basic repair and upcycling skills in a relaxed setting.

Tee hee

A frog walks into a bank and approaches the teller. The name plate on her desk says Patricia Whack.

“Miss Whack, I’d like to get a £30,000 loan. I’m planning on taking a big holiday.”

Patty looks at the frog in disbelief. It’s not general policy to grant loans to frogs, and she explains this to the one standing in front of her.

“It’ll be fine.” assures the frog. “I’m Kermit Jagger; My father is Mick Jagger. It will be fine to authorise the loan, I know your manager.”

Still a little unsure, Patty explains that he will need to secure the loan with some collateral.

“Sure thing.” says Kermit as he produces a tiny porcelain elephant about an inch tall, bright pink and perfectly formed. “How about this?”

Very confused and feeling slightly out of her depth Patty explains that she’ll have to consult with the bank manager, before disappearing into a back office.

When Patty manages to find the manager, she describes the situation in full: “I’ve got a frog called Kermit Jagger by the front desk who claims to know you. He wants to borrow £30,000, and he wants to use this as collateral.” Patty holds up the tiny pink elephant. “What do I do? I don’t even know what this thing is?!”

The bank manager looks her straight in the eye and says…”It’s a knickknack, Patty Whack. Give the frog a loan: His old man’s a Rolling Stone.”

MAY 2017 NEWSLETTER

MAY 2017 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

Do you like surprises? It depends what the ‘surprise’ is, I hear you say. We all like pleasant surprises, good news, everything turning out as we had hoped, an improvement in a situation. Other kinds of surprise can be less palatable.

As I was driving on Tuesday 18th April, I heard the one o’clock news, and the announcement that the Prime Minister has called an election. I was taken aback because we had been told there would not be a general election until 2020. Since then, I have listened to comments made and read about the decision in a number of sources, and can see why the election might have been called.

With only seven weeks from announcement to voting, the different parties don’t have long to get their act together and head for the campaign trail. No doubt, we will be bombarded with leaflets deliveries, and news items highlighting each party’s manifesto, and why we should vote for them.

Please take time to consider carefully which way you are going to vote. Don’t just think about what is best for you personally, but instead, remember what each party stands for, and who will best govern our nation. Take issues of justice and fairness into account, and which party will appropriately tackle the challenges that we currently face.

When Jesus began his ministry, around the age of thirty, he, too, issued a manifesto. Luke records the word in chapter 4:16-18, although Jesus was quoting from the Old Testament, from the prophecy of Isaiah, chapter 61:1-2:

‘The spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has appointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour’.

Given the context of the passage, Jesus went on to conduct his ministry as he had said he would do, healing the sick and always with compassion and mercy towards the poor and those on the margins of society.

I have not always lived in a democratic country, so I appreciate the freedom we have to vote. Please think about Jesus’ words, and pray about your decision, and may God continue to be with us for all that lies ahead.

Prayerfully,

Hilary

A prayer for the General Election

Adapted from election prayers from the Joint Public Issues Team, www.jointpublicissues.org.uk

For those who are campaigning for political office, that in serving our communities and national life – truth, justice, peace and wellbeing might become priorities for all.

For those for whom the results could mean significant change – that they might find grace and wisdom for the way ahead.

That those with leadership and influence will act wisely and in the interests of all people – seeking stability and justice for our world.

That as Christian citizens in society, regardless of whether we currently face the prospect with relish or trepidation, we will have wisdom and courage to seek God’s Kingdom and pursue his purpose in the emerging political landscape.

For those whose Christian identity has inspired them to serve in public life – that they might act as faithful followers of Jesus in every circumstance they face.

Amen.

2017 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Sun 7th May: Going forward communion

Sun 7th May: Easter Offering Service (the dedication service for receiving the Easter Offerings, prepared by Methodist Women in Britain for the World Mission Fund, Cann Hall Methodist Church, 296 Cann Hall Road, E11 3NN, 6.30pm

Sun 14th May: Churches Together in Highams Park Christian Aid Service, 6.30pm

Fri 19th May: Christian Aid Coffee Morning, 9.30am-12noon

Sat 20th May: Coffee Morning and lunches, 10am-4pm

Sun 21st May: Young Church Anniversary and Parade

Sat 10th June: Cream Tea at Pat & David’s, 3-5pm

Tues 13th June: Care AGM, Cavendish Road Baptist Church, 7pm

Sun 25th June: Annual Music and Song Afternoon Concert

Sat 8th July: Coffee Morning and lunches, 10am-4pm

Sun 9th July: All Age Worship and Parade

Sat 15th July: Highams Park Day

Sun 6th August: Care Commissioning Service, 6.30pm

Sat 7th October: Craft Fair

Sat 25th November: Bazaar

‘There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens’ ~ Ecclesiastes 3:1

MOTHERING SUNDAY

During the service, all the children in Young Church were busy preparing lots of very beautiful bunches of daffodils which they then gave out to all of the ladies in the congregation on Mothering Sunday.

EASTER MESSAGE

The President and Vice-President of the Methodist Conference, the Revd Dr Roger Walton and our very own Rachel Lampard MBE, speak about confidence, suffering and hope in this year’s Easter Message.

If you didn’t get a chance to read/see/hear this year’s Easter Message, go to:

www.methodist.org.uk/news-and-events/news-releases/easter-message

CHURCH ANNIVERSARY

We welcomed back Rev Jonathan Mead who led a lively service on 23rd April for the Church Anniversary. It was lovely to see Jonathan and his wife Lia and huge congratulations to them as they are expecting a baby.

A bring and share lunch was held after the service with lots of delicious goodies available. Thank you to everyone behind the scenes who ensured the lunch went smoothly and was enjoyed by all.

WELL DONE

Well done to Carol McSweeney and Julia Ovenden who both ran the London Marathon last month! There’s still time to sponsor. See Bruce to sponsor Carol and Pat to sponsor Julia. Updates to follow next month.

Cream Tea Afternoon

Saturday 10th June

3.00 to 5.00 pm

at Pat and David’s.

Come and enjoy a lovely afternoon and bring your friends.

There will be plants for sale.

See how great a flame

Before the next edition of Winchester News is published there will be two events for us to celebrate, John Wesley’s Aldersgate experience on Tuesday May 24th and Whit Sunday/Pentecost on June 5th.

In 1735 John and Charles Wesley crossed a stormy Atlantic Ocean to the new American colony of Georgia where John was to be chaplain to the setters in Savannah and Charles to act as secretary to the governor. They also hoped to play a role in the conversion of the local Creek Indians. Sadly, for several reasons, their mission was a failure and first Charles and then John returned to London depressed and uncertain about their future where Charles was confined to bed with pleurisy.

Often when he was faced with uncertainty or problems John would open his Bible at random and focus on some words on the page. On May 24th 1738, before he went out with friend to attend a service at St Paul’s Cathedral, he turned up a page of Mark’s gospel and read ‘thou art not far from the Kingdom of God’ (Mk 12 v 34). At the Cathedral the choir sang the anthem ‘Out of the deep have I called unto thee, O Lord: Lord hear my voice.’ (Psalm 130). Peter Dawe invited us to join him in reading this Psalm at the morning service in April (StF 832). In the evening John writes that he went ‘very unwillingly to a society in Aldersgate Street, where one was reading Luther’s Epistle to the Romans. About a quarter before nine, while he was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ. I felt my heart strangely warmed, I felt that I did trust in Christ, Christ alone, for salvation…’ These words are the best known quotation from Wesley’s Journal.

A few days earlier on Whit Sunday whilst suffering a fever Charles also had a heart stopping experience prompted by words from Paul’s letter to the Galatians ‘I live by faith in the son of God, who loved me and gave his life for me’ (Gal. 2 v 20b). Some writers call these events conversion experiences while others regard them as confirming experiences which led on to the brothers mission to preach salvation across the country. Charles Wesley naturally penned a hymn to mark the occasion incorporating their conversions, though it is one that is rarely sung today:

Where shall my wondering soul begin ?

How shall I all to heaven aspire? (StF 454).

After the events of Easter Jesus’ disciples scattered but Pentecost found them gathered together in one place when ‘suddenly there was a noise from the sky which sounded like a strong wind blowing and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then they saw what looked like tongues of fire which spread out and touched each person there’ (Acts 2 v 2-3). Now filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter was embolden to go outside to preach Christ crucified and resurrected to a crowd who had gathered because they heard a commotion.

The Cross with a Red Flame were chosen as the symbols of the American United Methodist Church and at the entrance to the Museum of London visitors are met by the Flame Memorial a bronze monument which stands close to the site of John Wesley’s Aldersgate experience (see image below). On the monument are the words from Wesley’s Journal telling of his heart warming experience on 24th May 1738.

In 1746 after what was described as a ‘successful preaching endeavour’ in Staffordshire Charles Wesley penned a hymn which used this flame image of the coming of the Holy Spirit.

See how great a flames aspires

kindled by a spark of grace !

Jesu’s love the nation a fires,

sets the kingdoms on a blaze. (StF 412).

In Singing the Faith the hymn is set to the tune St Georges Windsor which we associate with the harvest hymn ‘Come you thankful people come’ (StF 123).

Allen Steel, May 2017

CONGRATULATIONS EMILY BYGRAVE

Emily entered the Cake Competition at the Cake International Exhibition at Alexandra Palace.

She won 2nd prize overall and a Bronze Award in her class (age 13-16, ‘Design a birthday cake for a friend’).

Well done Emily!

CONGRATULATIONS MAUREEN DUNCAN!!

The Church family wishes to congratulate Maureen on her recent appointment as Head Teacher at The Brook in Broadwater School for the next academic year!

And she has also been appointed as Principal Designate for the AFK College from the following academic year!

This is a great achievement and we all wish her every success in her new career and lots of congratulations too!

Well done Maureen!

Pam and Graham

Please come and support our local talent here on Sunday 25th June at 3pm

Featuring

Emily Manning, Ellie Kimber, Darius Condurache, Isaac Hewins, Gillian Farnfield, Isabel Bowles, David Bhola, Don & Marion Clark, Graham Palmer, Lucy Kelly and Chris Carpenter

Compere Rev. Hilary Cheng

Tickets available from Jan Dent and Hazel Mathews or contact Pam Hayward 0208 5275435

Adults £7, Children £3.50 (includes refreshments)

Money raised is going towards the building fund

Olives Rehabilitation Centre in Mombasa, Kenya

Winchester Road Church has been generously supporting the feeding programme for children at Olives Rehabilitation Centre in Kenya since William volunteered there some years ago.

Michael Nyundo has written to us to thank us for our ongoing support and to let us know how our money is used. Throughout the week the money that is placed in the bowl in the hub is collected up and once a year the monies are sent to the school.

Thank you for continuing to help give these children a daily meal.

Maureen Duncan

Michael writes…….

A typical student’s school day begins at approximately 7am and ceases at 5pm. During this time they participate in many classes including; English, Maths, Science, Social Studies, History, Religious Education and Physical Education. These classes are both physically and mentally challenging. Energy levels required to maintain concentration throughout the day are extremely important.

The majority of students at Olives Rehabilitation Centre do not receive breakfast at home before they travel to school. Their walk is often long and tiring as they do not have money for transport and the weather is incredibly hot and humid. Without their daily nutritious meals our student numbers would drastically decrease as these meals are the main reason for some of them attending school. Prior to the initiation of the feeding programme the students would return home at lunch in order to receive a meal, however many families struggle to provide even the simplest of meals. Inevitably many students would not return to school for their afternoon lessons.

The feeding programme guarantees the students remain at school to complete all their lessons as well as increasing their energy levels and performance while at school. Olives Rehabilitation Centre ensures that all meals provided are of a substantial size and contain as many nutritious ingredients as possible. All meals contain either beans or pojo, with rice or ugali. These combinations provide the students with much needed protein and the satisfaction of feeling full throughout the day. The students continue to benefit with improved health, fewer absentee days and improved academic results.

For the poorest students at Olives Rehabilitation Centre the meals they receive at school may be the only food they have all day.

The feeding programme currently provides meals to 350 students, Monday to Friday throughout the school term.

Weekly cost to feed 1 student = 80 KES (61p)

Daily cost to feed 1 student = 16 KES (13p)

We will highly appreciate all you do to continue supporting us.

Thank you,

Michael Nyundo

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT

Last month, the Winchester Girls’ Night Out (and one ‘boy’) made their annual visit to see the bluebells. This year, instead of Larkswood we visited Wanstead Park. As we entered the woods it appeared that the forestry commission had cleared the area of undergrowth! Surely not the bluebells with it? However we were not disappointed for long, as promised glimpses appeared in sight and we found ourselves strolling along the paths between swathes of blue which seemed to stretch endlessly into infinity. It could bring out the poet in anybody! Later we enjoyed a Chinese meal together and celebrated Helen Easton’s birthday. Happy Birthday Helen!

Where will the bluebell hunt take us to next year we wonder?

Lindy Richardson

ANNUAL CHURCH MEETING 2017

The meeting was held on Sunday 19th March after the morning service. Hilary chaired the meeting and opened with prayer. Written reports had been circulated in advance (if you would like a copy, please see a steward).

Written reports from committees and groups:

– Property: -The Billiard Room was becoming full with what looks like rubbish; people were asked to remove items they wished to retain otherwise they will be disposed of. -Christian Kitchen would lose their current premises and had approached our church requesting use of our main kitchen, a large chest freeze and two storage cupboards from 4.30-7.30pm every day. Following long discussion, people were sympathetic to their aims and objectives and wished to support them, however, it was recognised that daily use of the kitchen would disrupt many current activities and impact groups using the Hodgson Hall. Whilst not closing the door, we would see how else we could help. Roger would liaise with them and report back to church council. -Security was still a problem with doors being left unlocked. Additional notices had been placed on the doors and a letter would be sent to all groups using the halls. Leaders of groups should be the last of their members to leave. A ‘locking-up rota’ would be investigated. -Hodgson Hall Kitchen was often left dirty by users which meant it had to be thoroughly cleaned before it could be used, e.g. before a Care lunch. Linda (the cleaner) was currently doing some late shifts instead of early shifts which would help. It was suggested that some of the income from Days4You could be used for additional/deep cleaning.

– Pastoral: Shirley Seaman had stepped down as Pastoral Secretary. Hilary praised her dedication and hard work. A new secretary would be appointed. – Outreach: Money raised from the Friday coffee mornings was going to Macmillan Cancer Support this year.

– Christian Aid: Hilary would lead a service on Sunday 14th May at 6.30pm here and there would be a coffee morning on Friday 19th May.

Financial Statements: No further discussion on the written report.

Matters arising from Church Council-Purchase of a defibrillator: It had been agreed to proceed with the purchase of a defibrillator.

Appointments: Mary-Rose French and Mary Burgoine stood down as senior stewards/stewards and were thanked for their support and hard work. Gillian Farnfield and Carole Merriman agreed to serve as new stewards.

AOB: -The Benevolent Fund was for use by the minister at their discretion. (Hilary wrote an explanatory article in April’s newsletter.) An alternative collection bag for the fund would be explored. -Homecare shoeboxes for older people were required in addition to the Christmas shoeboxes for children. (Sylvia wrote an article in April’s newsletter.)

The meeting closed with The Grace.

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm.

Wednesday 3rd May: Jennifer Plummer: Sweets & Chocolate

Wednesday 17th May: Alan Golding: Mission Aviation Fellowship

Wednesday 7th June: Roger Huddle: Rock Against Racism

Wednesday 21st June: TBC

London Methodist District and Region presents:

OPEN STUDY DAY: HOLINESS AND JUSTICE

With Calvin Samuel (Principal, London School of Theology)

and Rachel Lampard (Vice President, Methodist Church)

This will be a day of bible study, worship, creative prayer and interactive input which is open to everyone in the District.

Saturday 20th May, 10.30-3.30

King’s College, London: Strand Campus

FREE but must book here: www.eventbrite.com/e/open-study-day-holiness-and-justice-tickets-33696430932

Chocolate Eggs

A whopping 250 chocolate eggs were kindly donated by the congregation on Easter Sunday. These were enjoyed by the children of Joseph Clark and Whitefields schools.

JustOne Day with J.John

Saturday 8th July 2017, 3-6pm

Over 40,000 people of all ages will gather at the Emirates Stadium.

Thousands hearing how the Good News of Jesus can transform lives and bring purpose. Tickets for JustOne can be purchased by any church or individual via the JustOne website: www.justone.co.uk

NIGERIA HEALTH CARE PROJECT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SHORT STORY COMPETITION

‘Welcome to My World’

For writers aged 18-30. Closing date 30th June 2017.

Judged by Chibundu Onuzo, author of Welcome to Lagos and The Spider King’s Daughter.

First prize £100, Second prize £50, Third prize £25. Entry fee £5.

All short-listed entries will receive a free copy of Welcome to Lagos.

For more information and competition rules, visit:

www.nhcp.org.uk/compet3.php

Last year some of our younger members attended the ‘3Generate’ weekend.

3Generate is an action-packed and inspiring weekend for hearing the voice of children and young people across the Methodist Church, focussing on fun, faith and friends.

At the event, a manifesto for 2017 was produced by each of the three age streams. Copies of these are displayed on the Young Church notice board in the corridor and are being published in this newsletter (see opposite page for 11-18’s; 8-11’s was published last month; 18-23’s will be published next month).

3Generate 2017 will take place from 24th to 26th November at Pontins, Southport.

If you would like more information please speak to

Rachel Lampard or Jan Dent.

Hear the voice: respond with action

As Methodists we are called to respond to the Gospel message and live as disciples in the world. In response to this, children spoke out at 3Generate! Below is a summary of what was said about the issues that children identified as the most important. Children want the Church in 2017 to hear this…

Poverty

The world should be equal and all should be valued, therefore poverty is unfair. We should all work together in community to tackle poverty in such ways as social action, good stewardship and appropriate challenges to society.

Mental Health

We want to see the Church doing a lot more to provide hope, support and protection for people suffering with poor mental health. More education and awareness is needed so that stigma is reduced and people are better equipped to help.

School life

We are under increasing pressure to achieve and feel that we cannot be our true selves. Support us by trying to understand the pressures we face, provide space for us to talk, help us manage the balance between school work and life, and equip us to be who we are.

Extremism

There is a recognition that extreme views are not necessarily bad, but the actions of extremists can be negative. People should be encouraged and enabled to channel their extreme passions and beliefs in positive ways. We want people to have a better understanding of extremism, and guidance on how and when to challenge extremism with love.

Refugee Crisis

This issue causes frustration and uncertainty as to what can be done. There needs to be aid, advocacy and a change in public opinion so that refugees are helped and supported. It is the responsibility of everyone to do this.

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK

14th – 20th MAY

Would anyone who is interested in doing a door to door collection in a neighbouring road, or would just like to find out more, please let me know.

As part of our fundraising we will also be holding a coffee morning on Friday 19 May 9.30 – 12.00.

Pat Ovenden

Mathematics

Teacher: “If I gave you 2 cats and another 2 cats and another 2, how many would you have?”

Johnny: “Seven.”

Teacher: “No, listen carefully… If I gave you two cats, and another two cats and another two, how many would you have?”

Johnny: “Seven.”

Teacher: “Let me put it to you differently. If I gave you two apples, and another two apples and another two, how many would you have?”

Johnny: “Six.”

Teacher: “Good. Now if I gave you two cats, and another two cats and another two, how many would you have?”

Johnny: “Seven!”

Teacher: “Johnny, how are you possibly getting to seven?!”

Johnny: “Because I’ve already got a cat!”

APRIL 2017 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

Forgetfulness…..I wonder how many of us suffer from it! I know that I do, but I cannot use my age as an excuse. Before I started a family, I had a good memory and rarely forgot things. Since then it has been a different story.

Sometimes forgetfulness can be a blessing. If we have bad memories of a certain event, over time, some of the details will fade, and whilst the memory may remain, hopefully, the pain will fade. I remember when I went into labour with our second child thinking, ‘How on earth did I let myself get into this predicament again? It was bad enough the first time round!’ But of course, the pain of childbirth is short-lived, and I can happily forget that pain.

But, I can hear you saying, what happens when our memories are not as efficient as they once were? There are several known conditions where the memory lapses, which can be distressing both for the person concerned and their family. People have told me how painful it is, not to be recognised by members of our own family.

On other occasions, the memory fails us. We can remember in detail what happened twenty years ago, but not what happened yesterday. I am now in the habit of going upstairs to fetch something and by the time I’ve got there, I can’t remember what I was supposed to be looking for.

The Bible is a book full of stories (as the hymn-writer told us). Some of the stories are happy, others are sad. Some are about war, and others teach us to love one another. During the season of Passiontide, the two weeks leading up to Easter, we are reminded of the events of Maundy Thursday, the Last Supper, and Jesus’ arrest. Good Friday focuses our minds on Jesus’ trial and execution.

For most of the rest of the year, we rarely consider in detail what Jesus went through for us. We can forget it until next Easter comes round. But we should never minimise what Jesus went through for us.

Crucifixion was brutal, a terrible form of execution, starting with an unfair trial, followed by a beating sufficient to kill, the carrying of the cross, and then being nailed to it and left for hours to die a slow death, and to crown it all, the thorns.

It is easy to erase from our minds, the pain that Jesus went through. It is much easier to focus on Jesus as a baby, or teaching on the hillside, or healing the sick, because those memories are much more pleasant. But the truth is, that Jesus died for you and me. He went through a kangaroo court and painful humiliation so that we would not have to carry the burden of our sins with us throughout our lives. Our sins were nailed to the cross with him.

As Easter approaches once more, if you have forgotten the story, remind yourself of the events of the first Holy Week. Remember, Jesus died for you, so that you might find the way to heaven. The cross tells us about Jesus’ suffering, but it also speaks of his resurrection and saving grace. Don’t forget what Jesus did for you. What can you do for him?

Happy Easter,

Hilary

EASTER SERVICES

Sun 9th April: Palm Sunday here at Winchester Road, 10.30am and

Circuit Service at Shern Hall, E17, 6.30pm

Thurs 13th April: Maundy Thursday North Chingford Methodist Church (including communion), 7pm

Fri 14th April: Good Friday Walk of Witness, 10.30am at Hale End Library followed by service here at Winchester Road approx. 11.45am. Light refreshments served before the service

Sun 16th April: Easter Sunday All Age Worship and Communion, here at Winchester Road, 10.30am

2017 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Sun 23rd April: Church Anniversary All Age Worship followed by Bring & Share Lunch

Sun 7th May: Going forward communion

Sun 14th May: Churches Together in Highams Park – Christian Aid Service, here at Winchester Road, 6.30pm

Fri 19th May: Christian Aid Coffee Morning, 9am-12noon

Sat 20th May: Winchester Road Café, 10am-4pm

Sun 21st May: Young Church Anniversary; All Age Worship; Parade

Tues 13th June: Care AGM, Cavendish Road Baptist Church, 7pm

Sun 25th June: Annual Music and Song Afternoon Concert, 3-5pm

Sat 8th July: Winchester Road Café, 10am-4pm

Sun 9th July: All Age Worship; Parade

Sat 15th July: Highams Park Day, Vincent Road, E4

Sun 6th August: Care Commissioning Service, 6.30pm

Sat 7th October: Craft Fair

Sat 25th November: Bazaar

Easter Sunday – Cadbury’s Crème Eggs (or equivalent)

We will be collecting small chocolate eggs again during the service on Easter Sunday to be given to the children of Joseph Clark and Whitefields schools.

What is the Benevolence Fund?

In the Methodist Church, there is provision for a Benevolence Fund within church life. An extra collection is taken when it is a communion service, and this usually happens during the final hymn during worship.

The purpose of the benevolence fund is for ’relief of poverty and distress in the congregation and neighbourhood’ and is used at the discretion of the minister in pastoral charge possibly in conversation with the church or communion stewards. (Standing Order 651(3)).

The fund can make a contribution to the circuit or district benevolent fund, or the Methodist Relief and Development Fund.

In one church that I inherited, the outgoing minister told me that once a year, I would get a phone call from a ‘homeless’ man needing a new pair of training shoes. The minister had obliged and asked me to be prepared when the time came.

It may be that a person or family may fall on hard times, through no fault of their own, and can be helped by a financial donation. This might be a family from the church, or someone known to a church goer who raises the situation with me. An unexpected journey to visit family living far away might be an occasion when the fund can be of assistance

At Winchester Road, we give a gift of £50 to students from each of our church families, at Christmas time.

If you know of a concern, please come and discuss it with me. The money is there to be used, not accrued. Donations are freely given by those who contribute and are there to bless the recipient.

Thank you for all your donations,

Hilary

[Standing Orders are the ‘rules’ by which the Methodist Church has its Constitutional Practice and Discipline.]

REFLECTIVE AREA

Following our recent House Group meeting we have decided to set up a small area in the Hub for reflection and prayer. We will put out bibles and a small number of books for people to read, as well as a box for people to write prayers that they would like us to include in our worship on a Sunday.

Please take a look and if you have any suggestions for material that could be included, please speak to Hilary Cheng, Jan Dent or Lindy Richardson.

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

Our Women’s Day of Prayer was well received, we learnt about some of the problems of the people from the Philippines. I have received a note from headquarters to thank everyone for the total of £ 162.50 from the offertory. So I pass on their ‘Thank You’ to everyone.

Mary Burgoine

JEANNE WOODLEY

I have had a letter from Sue & Sara, Jeanne Woodley’s daughters, to let people know Jeanne has had a number of falls over a number of months, and getting frailer and frailer. Jeanne has been admitted to a Dementia Care Home in St Albans, where she is quite contented, doesn’t know where she is some of the time, or who anyone is, but is very pleased to see them. They are visiting regularly.

I have made contact with them and if anyone would like information, I have their address.

Please contact Mary Burgoine for more information.

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK

14th – 20th MAY

Would anyone who is interested in doing a door to door collection in a neighbouring road, or would just like to find out more, please let me know.

As part of our fundraising we will also be holding a coffee morning on Friday 19 May 9.30 – 12.00.

Pat Ovenden

Traidcraft

At Sunday coffee corner each week, we have a Traidcraft Stall (selling Fairtrade items). A new spring/summer catalogue is now available; please take one.

The stall doesn’t contain any items over £10 in case they don’t sell, however, they are lots of interesting items available in the catalogue and if you place an order with me the items are usually delivered to me within the week (and if I have a total order over £50 there is no postage to pay.

Easter eggs are available. Please let me know if you are interested in purchasing one (or a few) as I will not order unless I know they are going to be purchased.

Sylvia Dixon

Shoeboxes

I know it’s a long time before Christmas but I just want you to keep it in mind and if you see any of the following items as you go shopping, just pop it in your shopping basket and you will not even notice the extra cost!!

Children’s shoe boxes ages 3-6 years, 7-11 years and 12 -14years: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, comb, facecloth, soap, pens, pencils, paper, felt pens, crayons, colouring books (to fit in a shoe box), cuddly toy, dolls, games, puzzles, cars, balloons, musical instruments, whistles, gloves, hats, scarves etc. Sweets and chocolate (sell by date not beyond March 2018).

This year it has been decided to send some boxes called Homecare shoeboxes, which will mainly go to elderly people who are struggling. Items that can be included: candles, hairbrush, plastic utensils (plates, bowls, cutlery), soap, small Christmas decorations, tea towels, pegs, washing up cloths, chocolates (sell by date not beyond March 2018), jewellery, scarf, gloves, small decorative items to cheer up a home, etc.

If you would like to give anything, please put items into the tub at the back of the church or give to me.

Sylvia Dixon

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm.

Wednesday 5th April: Kate Poole – ‘I was Charles Dickens’ Charwoman’

Wednesday 19th April: Rev Hilary Cheng – An Easter theme

Wednesday 3rd May: Jennifer Plummer – Sweets & Chocolate

Wednesday 17th May: Alan Golding – Mission Aviation Fellowship

CORE Skills in Youth and Children’s Work

This training resource is designed to equip youth and children’s workers (voluntary and paid) with the ‘core’ skills needed to develop and build a sustainable youth and children’s provision in your church. This is not about teaching you to suck eggs, but arming you with the tools to better suck those eggs. Providing volunteers and/or paid workers with the ‘Core’/foundational skills needed by all those involved in church based children’s ministry. This training is suitable for those new or with some experience of youth and/or children’s work, combining face 2 face training with exercises to do within their placement. Providing a supportive environment, to offer participants the opportunity to explore and develop basic skills and knowledge that will enable good youth work practice.

This 3 day course will cover:

Children & their culture / Then & Now
Children & Church
A theology of children and young people
Adolescence and Child Developmental Theories
Teamwork
Pastoral Awareness
Session Planning
Plus Much Much More

When and Where:

The venue for 22nd April is: Woodford Methodist Church

Derby Road, South Woodford,

E18 2PU

On May 20th and

June 3rd the Venue is: Loughton Methodist Church

260 High Rd, Loughton,

IG10 1RB

All days start at 9.30am for a prompt 10am start and finish at 4pm.

The 3rd day being a bespoke training day on a topic decided upon by the attendees.

Singa alonga Stainer!

The events of Easter have given rise to an outpouring of great music. We are familiar with Handel’s Messiah written in 1741 which includes ‘He was despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief’, as well as the joyous Hallelujah Chorus. Bach’s two contributions were the St Matthew Passion written in 1727 based on the events described in Martin Luther’s translation of that gospel and the St John Passion written earlier. In the past at Handsworth Avenue Methodist Church (where my church going began), and here at Winchester Road each Easter soloists and choir sang Sir John Stainer’s oratorio Crucifixion one year and the next John Maunders ‘Olivet to Calvary’. Until recently the Wesley Guild at Winchester sang along with a recording of the Crucifixion at the beginning of Holy Week.

Sir John Stainer had a remarkable career and was held in high regard by many but now he is largely forgotten. John Stainer was born in 1840, the son of a cabinet maker who had a love of music. He was a precocious child able to play Bach fugues on his father’s home made organ at the age of seven! Aged nine he became s chorister at St Paul’s Cathedral in London and thanks to his fine voice quickly became their main soloist. At 15 he was appointed organist at St Benet’s Church in the city of London, where he also trained the choir. A year later he secured the post of organist at the new Anglican Choir School at Tenbury Wells in Worcestershire. By 20 he was the organist of Magdalen College Oxford, at the same time studying for a BA degree in music which he followed with a Doctorate of Music. It was here that he began to compose liturgical music and anthems for use in church services. His most important appointment came at the age of 32 when he secured the post of organist of St Paul’s Cathedral. Here he widened the repertoire and through his personality and talent raised the standard and reputation of the Cathedral’s music making. He became Professor of Music at Oxford University and was knighted in 1888, though he retired from the St Paul’s post the same year due to failing eyesight. He spent his final years travelling in France and Italy with his wife and died unexpectedly in Verona in 1901 aged 61 leaving a wife and family of six children.

Throughout his life, Stainer was keen to promote choir and congregational singing in parish churches. He composed hymn tunes and made arrangements of tunes written by others for the Anglican book Hymns Ancient and Modern. Singing the Faith prints seven of his compositions, the best known being Come though long expected Jesus (169) There’s a wideness in Gods Mercy (461) and All for Jesus (341). Stainer’s fame today arises from his oratorio ‘The Crucifixion’ written in 1887 which was premiered by the choir of St Marylebone Church.

Sir John Stainer left a large body of church music but today only a handful of anthems and the Crucifixion are still performed. He subtitled the oratorio A meditation on the sacred passion of the Holy Redeemer. It follows the pattern of Bach’s Passions being a simple narrative with anthems and choruses plus five hymns for congregational singing. It became popular because he wrote it specifically to be within the modest abilities of church choirs from whose ranks Churches could draw the tenor and bass soloists. He had to bear the sneering criticism of the musical establishment who criticised both the music and the sentimental doggerel of the text written by Rev. William Sparrow-Simpson. Simpson had links with St Paul’s and was chaplain of St Mary’s Hospital Ilford for 48 years. Many performances replace the male singer with sopranos for some of the arias, some of you will remember Irene Crowfoot who sang these solos in many local performances.

Enthusiasts can find excerpts from the Crucifixion on YouTube including several versions of the Choruses God so loved the world and the boisterous Fling wide the gates, including those by St Paul’s Cathedral Choir and the American Mormon Tabernacle Choir. However only one of the five Crucifixion hymns achieved popularity and can be found in Hymns and Psalms. (341) it is the closing hymn of the oratorio

All for Jesus – all for Jesus,

this our song shall ever be

for we have no hope , nor saviour,

if we have not hope in thee.

Allen Steel April 2017

Church Council Meeting February 2017

The meeting began by confirming and welcoming Jean Norton into the role of Church Treasurer, Janice will work with her in a supporting role until the end of the year.

Samuel Ebden demonstrated how a defibrillator is used and led a discussion on the report he had written in support of the proposal to purchase one for use on the premises. (A defibrillator is a device for giving an electric shock to the heart and is a lifesaving step in the recovery of a person who has had a cardiac arrest.) Such lifesaving equipment has been placed in many public places. A majority of the council supported its purchase and location in a suitable position outside the church complex, though funding and the cost and type of training have yet to be finalised.

In a report on Safeguarding Laura Pease listed the roles involving children and vulnerable adults which require holders to undergo training and gave details of the available training and its dates. Concern was expressed about whether the groups using our premises had appropriate safeguarding policies.

These items were followed by reports from committees;-

Outreach the report gave details and dates of future events including the Church Anniversary on April 23rd service which would be led by Revd. Jonathan Mead and the council accepted the suggestion that the service should be followed by a ‘Bring and Share Lunch.’

Resources, Roger Pettit spoke to his report which listed current and planned building work including repairs to roofs and gutters. Groups using the premises were to be reminded that they are required to put away equipment used before leaving. The importance of following locking up procedures to ensure security was raised again.

Finance Janice Pettit reported that the hub was finished and that all bills had been paid, though a remaining deficit of £17,338 should be paid off during the current year. Outstanding loans will be paid back by the end of the financial year. The lettings charge will be increased by 1% and charity donations increased by 5%.

Churches together in Highams Park. Mary Bourgoine reported the closing service of the URC church will be on 17th April and that the Baptist Church was seeking a new minister.

Stewards report recalled the well-attended Christmas services and the successful Christmas Inn. The hard work and fund raising of all who helped with the Bazaar was gratefully recognised. Three new members had been confirmed plus a new member by transfer. The Friday Coffee Mornings were proving popular.

Circuit Report- Dallion Roye, circuit steward, brought news from the Forest Circuit Churches. As the connexion stationing committee had been unable to fill the vacancy at the Loughton Church it was likely that the circuit would work with one less minister from September. There would be no increase in the circuit assessment required from Winchester Road. The North and South Chingford churches will consult to consider their work and witness.

Any other business raised a range of issues including, the need for a fire drill and, the rules for letting the premises or equipment. In the light of increased use of the premises by the community it was agreed to increase cleaning hours (weekdays 3pm-4.30). A recent legacy will be used to buy new chairs to replace the heavy deteriorating brown upholstered chairs.

If you require more details about the meeting please speak to a church steward.

Allen Steel

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” ~ Matthew 28:5-6

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

~ John 3:16

We Need Talent – Do You Have Talent?

Winchester Road Methodist Church is proud to present their 6th Annual Music and Song Afternoon on Sunday 25th June at 3pm

We are looking for the talents of young people to take part as well as adult performers.

If you can play an instrument, sing solo or be part of a choir we will be very pleased to hear from you.

This is an opportunity for all ages to get involved and showcase your talent, build confidence and perform to the public.

Please pass these details on to others you think would be interested.

For further details to be involved, please contact Mike Hayward on 0208 5275435 or email: michaelhayward15@hotmail.com

Proceeds from the event will go towards the church building fund

NEW ZEALAND

I have recently returned from Singapore and New Zealand and when I was in Christchurch I met up with Julie (Mavis Schopman) and Bryant Abbott. They came to the hotel and took me back to their home and later out to a very nice meal. Julie told me how much she owed to Winchester Road. She was sent as a child where she was nurtured in her Christian faith which has grown throughout her life. Her parents did not attend as many of us then were sent to Sunday School although our parents had no connection with a church.

They went to New Zealand in 1964 and returned for a visit in l992. Bryant has retired from the Ministry and as a hobby he has done many lovely wood carvings, now he does wood pictures which I think he burns on, he gave me one.

They send their love to anyone from Winchester Road who remembers them.

Sylvia Dixon

FOREST RECORDED MUSIC SOCIETY

(affiliated to the Federation of Recorded Music Societies)

If you enjoy listening to classical/light classical music in the company of like-minded people, then this society is for you.

Meets fortnightly on Friday evenings 7.30pm.

All Saints Church Hall, Church Avenue, Highams Park, E4.

Contact: Andrew Golds 020 8531 2938 or 020 8531 5695 for full details.

Young Church News

Here is some information about the next few weeks.

We would love to see as many of you as possible, especially for special events.

Sunday 1st April – ‘Preparing for Easter’

Sunday 9th April – ‘Palm Sunday’

Sunday 16th April – ‘Easter Sunday’ This will be All Age Worship led by Rev. Hilary Cheng.

Sunday 23rd April – ‘Church Anniversary’ This will also be All Age Worship led by our previous minister – Rev. Jonathan Mead and followed by a shared lunch in the Memorial Hall.

Sunday 30th April – Meet as usual but then Biscuit Club are responsible for serving tea and coffee after the service.

Sunday 7th May – Communion, which means we will start in our groups and go back into church for communion. We will be starting preparations for Our Young Church Anniversary.

Sunday 14th May – We will be doing final preparations for the Anniversary.

Sunday 21st May – Young Church Anniversary. This will be led by Tom Donogue together with members of Biscuit and Cookie Clubs.

Last year some of our younger members attended the ‘3Generate’ weekend.

3Generate is an action-packed and inspiring weekend for hearing the voice of children and young people across the Methodist Church, focussing on fun, faith and friends.

In 2016, 3Generate welcomed over 600 children and young people aged 8 to 23 from all over the country. At the event, a manifesto for 2017 was produced by each of the three age streams. Copies of these are displayed on the Young Church notice board in the corridor and will be published in this and future editions of the newsletter (see next page).

You can see what happened at the event by visiting ‘3GenTV-YouTube’ and watch the video for 2016. You may even spot some faces you recognise!

3Generate 2017 will take place from 24th to 26th November at Pontins, Southport – a new LARGER venue!

For the first time, youth and children’s leaders are invited to accompany their groups to 3Generate, where there will be a leaders’ programme, as well as sessions together with the young people. Bookings for 3Generate 2017 will open on 24th April.

If you would like more information please speak to

Rachel Lampard or Jan Dent.

Hear the voice: respond with action

Wonderful Me

We want everyone to respect each other in their words and actions. We experience lots of pressure at school, particularly to perform well. We ask the church to look for ways to help us, talk to us and to support us.

Wonderful Church

We want the Church to support charities and to enable us, along with the whole church, to be involved in helping others. We want to worship and discover more about God and prayer. We want the church to enable us to do this in ways that engage and challenge us and help us to understand. We can, and want to be, involved in and contribute to the worshipping life of the church.

Wonderful World

We want the Church to stand together against racism and injustice. We want the Church to campaign with us to support people who are homeless, refugees, slaves and in poverty.

Wonderfully prophetic

We want guidance and support to know what to do, or what actions to take, about difficult situations in the world. We want to be Agents of Change! The people of the world should be a community that lives together in peace.

Maria Told Her Mother Gladly

Maria came home from Sunday School on Palm Sunday and told her mother that she had learned a new song about a cross-eyed bear named Gladly.

It took her mother a while before she realised that the hymn Maria had been singing was really:

‘Gladly The Cross I’d Bear.’

MARCH 2017 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

I recently went for a routine blood test. I arrived at the clinic at 8am and joined the queue of a dozen people outside also waiting for the clinic to start. At 8.30 the doors opened by which time there were probably another twenty five people in the queue. Taking a ticket, we waited one by one for our number to be called.

A carer arrived pushing a disabled teenager in a wheelchair. I am not quite sure what happened next, as I had my head in a book, but another young woman in the queue stood up and gave the carer her ticket, and received a ticket in return, placing this kind young woman at the back of the queue.

A man who was waiting and had seen what happened, said to those who were waiting. ‘I think this young woman should go in next even though she has given up her place in the queue’. The general consensus offered by a grunt affirmed his decision. The carer with the disabled girl went in next followed by the young woman who had so graciously given up her ticket.

As I stood there, I thought about this generous act. Most people in the queue that day, were probably in a hurry to get to work and had come to the clinic early so that they could be on their way. But this young woman had seen the need within the carer and disabled teenager, and swopped her ticket. Not everyone would have been so kind and generous.

Her gracious act reminded me of Christ himself. When he died on the cross, he took our place. He let us go free, by paying for our sins at Calvary. He offered to stand in for us, so that we could live.

I felt very humbled to have witnessed this event and admiration for the man who stood up for the young woman so that she did not lose her place in the queue.

The church season of Lent is with us once more. Please consider how you might make a sacrifice that would benefit someone else – putting something in the Food Bank box, making a donation to charity, reading a devotional Lent book, supporting Fairtrade.

Whatever you choose to do, do it graciously, remembering that Christ graciously gave up his life for you.

Lenten greetings,

Hilary

Prayer for Family Love

By Daphne Kitching

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank you for your love for us and that we are adopted into your family.

Thank you for Mary and her willingness to serve you as the mother of your Son.

Lord, it must have been so hard to see the suffering of her boy on that cross, however grown up He may have been and however much she knew He was yours as well. He was her baby! Please help those of us with children always to lift them to you in prayer whenever they have problems, remembering that when we can no longer pick them up and help them, you always can.

Thank you for our earthly families; for mothers and fathers, aunties and uncles, grandmas and grand-dads, brothers and sisters – help us to lives of loving kindness. Help us to reflect your love in all our relationships.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

2017 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Sun 19th March: The Annual Church Meeting will follow the morning Service

Sat 25th March: Coffee Morning and lunches, 10am-4pm

Thurs 13th April: Maundy Thursday Service, North Chingford Methodist Church, 7pm

Fri 14th April: Good Friday Walk of Witness, 10.30am at Hale End Library followed by service here at Winchester Road approx. 11.45am. Light refreshments to be served before the service

Sun 16th April: Easter Sunday; All Age Worship and Communion

Sun 23rd April: Church Anniversary

Sun 7th May: Going forward communion

Sat 20th May: Coffee Morning and lunches, 10am-4pm

Sun 21st May: Young Church Anniversary and Parade

Tues 13th June: Care AGM, Cavendish Road Baptist Church, 7pm

Sun 25th June: Annual Music and Song Afternoon Concert

Sat 8th July: Coffee Morning and lunches, 10am-4pm

Sun 9th July: All Age Worship and Parade

Sat 15th July: Highams Park Day

Sun 6th August: Care Commissioning Service, 6.30pm

Sat 7th October: Craft Fair

Sat 25th November: Bazaar

FINANCES

Monthly offertory collections for September to January are as follows;

September £3,075.88

October £3,202.47

November £3,168.65

December £3,333.88

January £3,221.05

At church council at the end of February our charity giving for the year was agreed to be increased from last years. We propose to give a total of £4,345 this year to nominated charities.

I am delighted to inform you that Jean Norton will be taking over as treasurer – I will be working alongside her until the end of the financial year, or until she feels confident to manage the accounts without support.

Janice

Coffee Morning on 21st Jan raised £269.35

Jumble Sale on 4th Feb raised £1,112.29

SPONSORED ABSEIL

There is still time to sponsor Susan Knights who is bravely abseiling 114 metres down the Orbit in the Olympic Park on Saturday 25th March to raise money for Haven House Children’s Hospice.

Visit www.havenhouse.org.uk/fundraisers/susan-is-being-brave or see Susan for the paper form.

Everyone is also welcome to support Susan on the day, 11am at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, E20 2ST.

Good luck Susan!

Lent Groups in E4

Mondays: 8pm at Lindy and Peter Richardson’s starting Monday 6th March.

Please ring 020 8531 8860 if you wish to join this group.

Tuesdays: 2pm at Winchester Road Church starting Tuesday 7th March.

Led by: Phil Slaney, Richard Mortimer and Hilary Cheng.

Wednesdays: 7.30 -9 pm, various venues, starting Wednesday 8th March.

8th March at All Saints, Highams Park

15th at St Edmunds, South Chingford

22nd March at All Saints (Old Church), Chingford

29th March at The Rectory 2 The Green, North Chingford

5th April at St. Anne’s, Highams Park

Thursdays: 2pm at St Edmund’s South Chingford starting Thursday 9th March.

Love, a look at the hymn book

Thumbing through the hymn book writing last month’s article on ‘Love’, I came across several familiar hymns.

The Victorian poet Christina Rossetti gets to the heart of God’s love in a poem, which has echoes of Charles Wesley’s Love Divine all loves excelling. This poem was selected for our hymn book (Stf 210), though it is less well known than her Christmas carol In the bleak midwinter.

Love came down at Christmas

Love all lovely, love divine;

In the last verse she writes

Love shall be our token,

love be yours and love be mine

love to God and all the world,

In three short verses she reflects the words in the First Letter of John

Dear friends, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Whoever loves is a child of God and knows God…….God showed his love for us by sending his only son into the world so that we might have life through him. This is what love is: (1 John 4 v 7-10).

Percy Dearmer ( 1867-1936) was a high church Anglican priest, an active member of the Christian Socialist Union and Professor of Ecclesiastical Art in the University of London from 1919. Along with the composer Vaughan Williams he played a key role in the compilation of Anglican Hymnbooks including ‘Songs of Praise’ and ‘The Oxford Book of Carols.

The theme is boldly asserted by Dearmer in his hymn (StF 403) God is love; his the care,

tending each, everywhere

which has a lively chorus

Sing aloud, loud loud

God is good!

God is truth

God is beauty! Praise him!

Robert Walmsley (1831-1905) was a jeweller by profession and as a Congregationalist was active in the Manchester Sunday School Union for whom he wrote several hymns. These were published in 1900 in a book entitled Sacred songs for children of all ages. His hymn on the love of God is the best known of them and is his only entry in Singing the Faith.

Come let us sing of a wonderful love

tender and true

out of the heart of the Father above

streaming to me and to you (StF 443)

In the account of the final judgement in Matthew Chapter 25 we read of the words spoken to the righteous

I was hungry and you fed me, thirsty and you gave me a drink; I was stranger and you received me in your homes, or naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you took care of me, in prison and you visited me. (v 36-6)

I tell you whenever you did it for one of the least important these brothers of mine, you did it for me. (v 40b).

These words have spoken to many people including Charles Wesley and his fellow students at Oxford who regularly visited prisoners in Oxford Jail. Later, after his conversion experience, Charles made frequent visits to Newgate and The Marshalsea London’s two most notorious prisons. In his Diary he writes of the visits made in July 1738.

I went to Newgate and preached to ten malefactors, under sentence of death, but with a heavy heart. …..I could hardly hope there was mercy for those whose time was so short. But in the midst of my discourse, a sudden spirit of faith came upon me and I promised them all pardon in the name of Jesus Christ if they would repent and believe in the gospel.

A few days later he read prayers, preached and administered communion at Newgate after which he was locked in the cells together with his friend John Bray and some prisoners. These men he described as being ‘delightfully cheerful. On July 19th he accompanied the men on their journey to Tyburn where they were hanged. Today this execution site is marked by a plaque in a road island near Marble Arch.

Paul in his first letter to the church at Corinth concerning the Christian life devotes a section to Love (Chapter 13) which ends with the oft quoted lines.

…..these three remain; faith, hope and love; and the greatest of these is love. (v 13)

Allen Steel, March 2017

The Museum of Methodism Shop has a small card with four key verses from Paul’s letter printed on a small pink card on sale at 40p. ww.wesleyschapel.org.uk/shop.htm

PEW CARDS

Some years ago I printed out favourite quotes from the bible or hymns to insert at the end of each pew.

Many of these are now becoming worn or have disappeared.

I will prepare some new ones over the next couple of months. If anyone has a favourite line from a hymn, prayer or the bible, please let me know and I will include it in one of the pew cards.

Jan Dent (jdent7@gmail.com)

Mothering Sunday – 4th Sunday in Lent

There is an old Jewish saying: God could not be everywhere, and therefore He made mothers.

Mother Church, Mother Earth, Mother of the Gods – our human mothers – all of them have been part of the celebration of ‘Mothering Sunday’ – as the fourth Sunday in Lent is affectionately known. It has been celebrated in the UK since at least the 16th century.

In Roman times, great festivals were held every Spring to honour Cybele, Mother of all the Gods. Other pagan festivals in honour of Mother Earth were also celebrated. With the arrival of Christianity, the festival became one honouring Mother Church.

During the Middle Ages, young people apprenticed to craftsmen or working as ‘live-in’ servants were allowed only one holiday a year on which to visit their families – which is how ‘Mothering Sunday’ got its name. This special day became a day of family rejoicing, and the Lenten fast was broken. In some places the day was called Simnel Day, because of the sweet cakes called simnel cakes traditionally eaten on that day.

In recent years the holiday has changed and in many ways now resembles the American Mothers’ Day, with families going out to Sunday lunch and generally making a fuss of their mother on the day.

www.parishpump.co.uk

Religious Books

There are a large number of books on the bookcase in Room 3. Please take a look and if you would like to borrow one, there is a book to record loans hanging by the bookcase.

VOLUNTEER CHURCH ROLES

Dear Everyone,

In order to ensure that our church runs smoothly there are many roles that need to be filled, some on a weekly basis and others, monthly. We are particularly short of door stewards at present and would be grateful for any offers to help welcome people as they arrive at church on a Sunday, an important role. Over the years, many people tell me they stayed at a particular church because of the welcome they received.

There are other vacant posts that we would like to fill, so could I ask to consider whether you could make coffee on a Sunday morning for Coffee Corner or any other way that you think you could contribute. Please speak to one of the stewards or to Hilary if you think you can help or would like to know more.

Many thanks.

‘Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances…’

~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm.

Wednesday 1st March: Pat & David Ovenden – Our holiday in Cuba

Wednesday 15th March: Michael Freeman – History of the Royal

Forest Hotel

Wednesday 5th April: Kate Poole – ‘I was Charles Dickens’ Charwoman’

Wednesday 19th April: Rev Hilary Cheng – An Easter theme

‘A friend loves at all times…’

~ Proverbs 17:17

Methodist Youth Choir

The British Methodist Youth Choir is holding a taster weekend in Newbury over the 5-7 May 2017. It is a great opportunity for anyone interested in singing aged between 16 and 27.

You can discover more here: www.bmyc.info

The Lent Lily

Many people give up certain foods or pleasures during Lent, the period which commemorates Jesus’ forty day fast in the wilderness, in preparation for Easter. It is also a time when we also look forward to spring and the spring flowers which we will use to decorate the cross at the Easter Sunday morning service. In pride of place will be the descendants of the Lent Lily. The Lent Lily is Narcissus pseudonarcissus, the wild daffodil, ancestor of the bulbs in our gardens. It used to be common throughout Mediterranean and Western Europe but today it survives in only a few places. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, this year on March 1st, which by coincidence was also St. David’s Day. The day when the daffodil is recognised as the national flower of Wales. There is a tradition which suggest that it blooms throughout Lent but begins to die on Good Friday, however the weather and the nomadic date of Easter make this a matter of luck.

I suspect that most of the older generation were forced to memorise daffodil poems at school but not so the young, for rote learning is out of educational fashion. Most familiar will be Wordsworth’s nature poem which begins ‘I wandered lonely as cloud’ and continues with a description of a seeing ‘a host of golden daffodils’ or possibly Robert Herrick’s To Daffodils which reminds us that we share the flower’s mortality.

Fair Daffodils, we weep to see

You haste away so soon;

We have short time to stay, as you,

We have as short a spring;

As quick a growth to meet decay,

As you, or anything.

Lent Lilies (Wild Daffodils) in Dymock Woods in Gloucestershire

Calling for the Talents of our Local Community

Once again Winchester Road Methodist Church is proud to present their 6th Annual Music and Song Afternoon on Sunday 25th June at 3pm

We are looking for the talents of young people to take part as well as adult performers.

If you can play an instrument, sing solo or be part of a choir we will be very pleased to hear from you.

This is an opportunity for all ages to get involved and showcase your talent, build confidence and perform to the public.

Please pass these details on to others you think would be interested.

For further details to be involved, please contact Mike Hayward on 0208 5275435 or email: michaelhayward15@hotmail.com

Proceeds from the event are going towards the church building fund.

LENT 2017 – WaterAid’s Jars of Change appeal

Join Neny on a journey for clean water this Lent.

The 40 day journey through Lent can be long and testing.

But for girls like Neny, the arduous journey to collect dirty water every day is a test they shouldn’t have to endure.

Could you journey alongside girls like Neny and help to end their tiring walks to collect dirty water? By giving something up this Lent and collecting the money you save for WaterAid, your pennies can become life changing clean water for children like Neny all around the world.

For more information visit www.wateraid.org/lent

How God works

A grandmother was taking her young grandson for a walk in the park. The daffodils were in bloom, and it was a beautiful Spring day.

Wanting to encourage her grandson’s spiritual understanding of the world, she said: “Doesn’t it look like an artist painted this scenery?

Did you know God did all this?”

Her grandson replied: “Oh yes, and God did it left handed, too.”

In astonishment, the grandmother asked what he meant.

“Well, he must have done,” said her grandson, “because we learned at Sunday School last week that Jesus sits on God’s right hand.”

FEBRUARY 2017 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

Do you remember a chorus that is not often sung today but was a regular inclusion years ago?

Count your blessings name them one by one

And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.

We are living at a time of austerity when we are all feeling the cuts in public services, interest rates at the bank, and each of us is aware of the rise in cost of the goods that we need to buy. I don’t like the cutbacks any more than you do and am saddened by some of the decisions that are being made.

It is easy to look on the negative side of life, and focus on the bad things that are happening in the news, acts of road rage, the war in Syria, the threat of terrorism, and the lack of respect of one person to another.

One area where generosity can be felt is in God’s great love for us. He amply supplies all our needs, and gives us much to be thankful for. Sometimes, it is tempting to take all that God gives for granted and to be unappreciative of what is freely given. It is often not until something is taken from us that we realise its true value and beauty.

On New Year’s Day, I took an empty jam jar to worship with me. Upon it was a label, ‘Blessings’. I encouraged the congregation to start a ‘Blessings’ jar during 2017. Each time something good happens, write on a small piece of paper what the blessing was and put it in the jar. It might be that someone special came to stay with you or visit you and were a blessing to you. It could be that you noticed the first snowdrop appear in your garden. Or it might be that someone vacated a space in a full car park just as you arrived. Your blessings might be more meaningful, such as gratitude for renewed health after a time of illness, or the comfort of friends and family after a time of bereavement.

Whatever your blessing, put it in the jar. I shall send out some reminders through the year so that you don’t forget to include the good things that have happened. At the end of 2017, we will consider the contents of the jars and look back over the year at how many times we have known and felt God’s love and presence.

Count your blessings and it may surprise you what the Lord has done.

Hilary

Prayer of thanks for God’s light

By Daphne Kitching

Father of all creation,

Thank you for signs of life and light, even in the dark and sometimes difficult days of winter. Thank you for Jesus’ victory over darkness and death – and for the assurance that, if we put our trust in Him – nothing can ever separate us from you.

Help us to hold onto the hope you have given us and to walk on with Jesus as our guiding light. And may His light attract others who don’t yet know Him and whom the darkness threatens to overwhelm.

Shine on us, Lord, that we may reflect your light and receive your peace.

In Jesus’s name.

Amen.

2017 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Fri 3rd March, 10.30am: Women’s World day of Prayer at All Saints

Sun 5th March: Uniformed Organisations Anniversary and Parade

Sun 19th March: The Annual Church Meeting will follow the morning service

Sun 21st May: Young Church Anniversary and Parade

Sun 9th July: All Age Worship and Parade

Sat 7th October: Craft Fair

Sat 25th November: Bazaar

‘THANK YOU’ FROM JULIE

Mary-Rose received the following message from Julie following the Fundraising Coffee Morning held on Saturday 13th January, confirming that the total amount raised was £715.88.

“Please pass on our thanks to everyone at the Church, we really appreciate the support and kindness that you offer us for our fundraising efforts for our lovely friend Julie and her family.”

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

(INTERNATIONAL AND INTERDENOMINATIONAL)

Am I Being Unfair to You?

On Friday 3rd March over 5,000 services will be held in the British Isles on the theme of ‘Am I Being Unfair to You?’ The Christian women of the Philippines wrote the service and it has been translated into 1,000 different languages and dialects, to be used, throughout the whole world, on Friday 3rd March, starting at sunrise over the island of Samoa and continuing until sunset off the coast of American Samoa.

In 2013, Typhoon Haiyan – named locally as ‘Yolanda’ – struck the Philippine islands in the western Pacific Ocean. This is mentioned in the service but you will also hear the stories of a girl, a mother and an older woman, recounting their situations and their hopes and fears. The service focusses on the Bible story of the workers in the vineyard: Matthew 20 v 1-16. There is a reflection on the artwork designed by Rowena ‘Apol’ Laxamana-Sta.Rosa. It is very thought provoking and illustrates contrasting scenes.

Why not find out more about the theme, the Philippines and the service? The Day of Prayer is not just for women. Everyone is welcome to attend the service. To find out further information, resources and services near to you, please visit the WWDP website

www.wwdp.org.uk

The Highams Park Service will be held at

All Saints, Church Avenue, Highams Park, E4 9QD

from 10.30am – 11.30am (followed by refreshments)

on Friday 3rd March 2017.

All are welcome.

BEAVER LEADER NEEDED

As of Easter 2017 Hazel Mathews will no longer be running the 21st Beaver Scouts.

Without someone coming forward to be the new leader the colony will have no option but to close, in July.

Is this something you feel you could take on?

Do you want to know more about what is involved?

Then Hazel can be contacted on 02085275323

or by e-mail at hmathews@sky.com

Two assistants are currently in place but cannot take on the leadership role. I am willing to mentor anyone wishing to become the leader and can provide support, but after 30 years commitment to the Scout movement, it is now my time to leave.

Looking forward to hearing from YOU!

Yours in Scouting

Hazel Mathews (Tic- Tac)

Love – beginning with St Valentine’s Day

As soon as Christmas and New Year passed, Card Shops reduced the price or cleared away any remaining seasonal cards to make way for Valentine cards. A search for the identity of St Valentine takes us back to the third century and the picture is murky. Valentine was a priest/bishop who was imprisoned in Imperial Rome for illegally marrying couples in Christian ceremonies, and then sentenced to death by beating. At the time the Emperor believed that young unmarried men made the best soldiers for they had no family ties, hence he introduced laws that discouraged marriage. Amongst the legends about Valentine is a story that during his imprisonment he cured the blindness of the daughter of his jailor (or alternatively the judge) which led the family and household of the jailer converting to Christianity. In prison awaiting the sentence he wrote to the young girl concluding with words taken up by later card designers……..from your Valentine.

Some writers suggest that the Feast of St Valentine was introduced to replace the Roman fertility festival of Lupercalia, while others suggest that it arose from a belief that birds sought out their mates in February before the onset of spring. The earliest reference to a special Valentine’s Day in England comes in the lengthy (700 lines!) dream poem Parliament of Fowls written around 1380 by Geoffrey Chaucer. In one section Mother Nature calls a parliament where the birds debate the choosing of mates’. For this was on Valentine’s Day / when every bird cometh there to choose his mate. The most worthy and royal birds, the eagles, choose first. It is a satire on the bickering and uproar which occurs in parliament. (No change there.) The goose, the cuckoo and the duck shouted: ‘kek kek, cuckoo, quack quack!’ so loudly that the noise went right through my ears. Scholars believe the poem was influenced by difficult dowry negotiations for the marriage of the teenage royals, King Richard II to Anne of Bohemia which involved Chaucer.

Later William Shakespeare, in Hamlet, puts these words into the mouth of Ophelia:

Tomorrow is St Valentine’s day,

All in the morning betime,

And I a maid at your window,

To be your Valentine.

(In modern English, Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day and early in the morning I am a girl below your window waiting to be your Valentine.)

Printed cards first appeared in the 19th century and became increasingly popular last century and it was estimated that in 2015 £1.9 billion was spent on cards, flowers and chocolates. I wonder if senders of Valentine cards pledging their love are aware that they are commemorating a saint martyred for supporting the cause of

Christian Marriage.

An often quoted verse taken from Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus who came secretly to see him is God so loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life. (John 3 v16). A quick look at the first lines of hymns in Singing the Faith shows that love figures in over thirty of the hymns. Charles Wesley in what many consider his finest hymn tells us that God’s love is above all others and is limitless.

Love divine, all loves excelling

joy of heaven to earth come down

…………

Jesus, thou art all compassion,

pure unbounded love thou art. STF 503

This hymn is in the top ten of hymns sung at weddings including at the wedding of Prince William and Katherine Middleton. Other hymns will need to wait for next month, in the meantime how many ‘Love’ hymns can you name?

Allen Steel February 2017

Dr Leo Cheng Presents the Work of Mercy Ships

Sunday 19th February 2017

Mercy Ships provides the world’s largest non-governmental floating hospital. The volunteers on board have transformed and continue to save the lives of more than 2.5 million people in the poorest countries on our planet.

Local Preacher and Consultant Surgeon, Dr Leo Cheng, will be talking about his uplifting and inspiring experiences as part of the medical team.

All are welcome. Please join us for this special service with refreshments available after.

Barkingside Methodist Church at 9.30am, Sunday 19th February

Contact Daisy Seepaul on 0208 551 6680 for further details.

Pauline Fitzpatrick

I have heard from Lorraine Baxter, Pauline’s daughter. Some of our older members will remember her and Cyril; they used to attend Winchester. She is well and says hello to everyone.

“We are currently being sent the Winchester News, many thanks for this, but sadly I think it is time to stop sending it.

My mum is not able to retain a lot of short term memories as the Alzheimer’s disease that she suffers from is progressing.”

I also have a new address for correspondence for anyone wishing to give her any private letters.

Dorothy Clarke

THANK YOU TO THE RAINBOWS

A big thank you to the 2nd Highams Park Rainbows who made beautiful Christmas cards for our ladies and gentlemen at Care Lunch in December. They were absolutely thrilled to think they had been remembered by children they had probably never met. Your kindness was really appreciated and shows that God’s love is reaching out to others.

Barbara Chapman

Mary Burgoine would like to share the following Thank You letter received from Action for Children:

Please pass on our sincere thanks to everyone involved in raising the recent donation of £137.66. We were delighted to hear about your carol singing and we hope that everyone from the church that took part had fun in the process of making such a wonderful and much needed gift.

‘Go not only to those who need you, but to those who need you most’

John Wesley

Action for Children’s ethos is deeply rooted in Methodist principles, and for over 145 years we have worked together helping vulnerable children to reach their full potential.

With kind regards, and our heartfelt gratitude to all our friends at the Church.

CHRISTMAS INN 2016

Readers of Winchester News are likely to be familiar with the term ‘Christmas Inn’ but for those who aren’t sure what it is, herewith a brief description: every Christmas Care Highams Park invites residents of Waltham Forest – single parents and children, individuals, couples, people with disabilities – to spend Christmas Day at Winchester Road, where they are given the opportunity to worship on Christmas morning, followed by a traditional dinner, afternoon entertainment and tea, and transport both ways provided by a team of volunteers.

This year we had at least 70 guests attending (each year I am never sure of the exact total because some guests are unable to attend on the day and others spontaneously attend). All who came were very complimentary about the Christmas meal, cooked by Pat and David Ovenden, and the event as a whole. The Mayor of Waltham Forest called in and stayed for quite a while – his wife would have joined but she was ill. Normally we have a couple who entertain the guests during the afternoon but they too were ill and couldn’t come. However, Gillian Farnfield kindly stepped into the breach and entertained everyone with her piano playing, which was much appreciated and which also gave us the opportunity to sing a few carols.

For many years we have been fortunate to have a Community Transport minibus driver available who is prepared to do 4 or 5 transports for us on Christmas Day but he has now moved away and is no longer available. Fortunately Graham Duncan offered Care the use of one of his Action For Kids minibuses, for which we were very grateful, and we were lucky enough to have a good number of drivers this year, including one couple who borrowed a friend’s 8-seater so that they could transport more people at a time and a kind lady who turned up just before 5pm to say she’d heard that we were short of drivers and did we still need help. However, organising transport is still a difficult task and Alan Burgoine, who organises that side of the event, and I are always pleased to hear of people who can drive for us on Christmas Day.

I myself have been involved with Christmas Inn for the past 19 years (I think) but others, such as Janice and Roger, have been involved for much longer. I have coordinated the event for at least 10 years, both in advance (which includes sending out letters to guests and helpers and fielding the replies) and on the day and we have a lot of other willing helpers, including Kevin Swaine, who also helped with clearing up on Boxing Day, for which many thanks. However, several of our helpers are no longer as fit as they were so if anyone else thinks they might be able to offer help on Christmas Day, I would be grateful to hear from you.

All offers of help, be it donations of money, home-made cakes, small boxes of chocolates, etc. are always much appreciated. People who don’t mind washing up crockery and cutlery for about 80 people at a time are often in short supply and, as mentioned above, we would always be delighted to receive offers of transport (to morning service, to both sittings of lunch, and return at around 5pm) – if you can help, please see me. In previous years we have been fortunate to receive a generous grant from Waitrose, this year we received sufficient gifts of money from individuals to cover all our costs with a small amount to spare.

If anyone has any questions about Christmas Inn, please do not hesitate to contact me. Meanwhile I think I can speak for all involved in Christmas Inn, particularly on Christmas Day, when I say that however tired you are by the end of the day, you are more than rewarded by the thanks of our guests and the smiles on their faces as they await their transport home, which make it all worth-while. Mary-Rose French

THE STORY OF THE TWO POTS

An elderly Chinese woman had two large pots that hung each end of a pole which she carried across her neck. One of the pots had a crack in it while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water. At the end of the long walk from the stream to the house, the cracked pot arrived only half full. For many years this went on daily, with the woman bringing home only one and a half pots of water. Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments, but the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection, and miserable that it could only do half of what it had been made to do. After several years of what it perceived to be bitter failure, it spoke to the woman one day by the stream. “I am ashamed of myself, because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your house.” The old woman smiled, “Did you notice that there are flowers on your side of the path, but not on the other side? That’s because I have always known about your flaw, so I planted flower seeds on your side of the path and every day while we walk back you water them. For several years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table. Without you being just the way you are, there would not be this beauty to grace the house.” Each of us has our own unique flaw, but it’s the cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives together so very interesting and rewarding. You’ve just got to take people for what they are and look for the good in them. So, to all of my cracked pot friends, have a great day and remember to smell the flowers on your side of the path!

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm-4pm.

Wednesday 1st February: Joy Puritiz – Bethnal Green disaster in war

Wednesday 15th February: Alan Burgoine plays the piano for us

Wednesday 1st March: TBA

Wednesday 15th March: Michael Freeman – History of the Royal Forest Hotel

‘Two are better than one…For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow…’

~ Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

QUIZ SHEETS – THANK YOU

Each autumn Barbara Chapman sells Quiz sheets to raise money for the Kenyan Street Children (ACK Utugi Children’s Centre). The fundraising is organised by the Mother’s Union at St. Paul’s Church, Woodford Bridge. They sent a letter of thanks and confirmed that proceeds from the Quiz sheets raised a total £245 for the appeal. The money raised will provide around 245 meals to feed the destitute children.

METHODIST CHURCH IN BRITAIN APP

The app from the Methodist Church in Britain is available on all mobile devices. The app offers users a daily Bible study, as well as all the latest news, audio and video from the Church.

Features include:

Daily Bible studies, featuring a different author each week
Prayer of the Day from the Methodist Prayer Handbook
Lectionary readings and suggested hymns to help with planning worship
The latest news stories from the Methodist Church in Britain
Topical podcasts from Methodist Web Radio
Resources for Christian discipleship
Blogs from the President and Vice President of the Methodist Conference, Methodist Youth President and World Church Relationships team
View videos through the Church’s YouTube channel
Interact on Facebook and Twitter
Information about the latest campaign

Search your phone’s app store to download.

Fairtrade Fortnight 2017: Monday 27 February – Sunday 12 March

Stock up on Fairtrade goodies at the Traidcraft stall in the Hub and look out for Fairtrade produce when doing the supermarket shop.

Can you remain silent for 100 minutes?

Can you play dodge ball, decorate biscuits, take part in a quiz or charades and play the chocolate eating game without speaking?

If the answer is “Yes!” then you will want to take part in Sophie’s Sponsored Silence.

Take part in five, 20-minute activities Saturday 25th February

2pm – 4pm

at Winchester Road Methodist Church

Sophie is raising money for the Methodist charity ‘All We Can’ which helps people around the world including Syrian refugees.

Look out for more information and sponsor forms in the Hub or contact Jan Dent. (jdent7@gmail.com)

LENT 2017 – 40acts

This year Lent begins on Wednesday 1st March. Many people give something up during this period. Fancy a change? Join the 40acts challenge to take part in forty daily generous acts during Lent 2017.

40 days of Lent

40 days of giving back, doing good and living generously

Nearer the time, Family packs will also be available to download.

Valentine’s Day Dream

After she woke up, a woman told her husband, “I just had a dream that you gave me a diamond necklace for Valentine’s Day. What do you think it means?”

“You’ll know tonight.” He said.

That evening, the husband came home with a small package and gave it to his wife.

Delighted, she opened it to find a book entitled

‘The Meaning of Dreams’.

JANUARY 2017 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

A very Happy New Year to you. I hope that 2017 has got off to a good start.

After the business of December, with preparations for Christmas, January in comparison is a much quieter month. In the Methodist Church we usually hold our annual Covenant Service, as we commit ourselves to God’s service in the year before us.

January is also the month when we share in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. This takes place between 18-25 January, and is an opportunity for us to join in an act of worship with our brothers and sisters in Christ in our local churches.

The week of Prayer was originally called the Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity and was started in 1908. Its purpose was to pray for Christian Unity. Nowadays we call it the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity and meet to worship in each other’s churches. If you have not attended such a service before, please consider doing so this year.

I have provided the dates for each of my three churches, so there is opportunity to attend at a variety of venues. The service usually includes prayers, a Bible reading and a thought according to the tradition of each church.

This year, the theme is ‘Crossing Barriers’.

North Chingford

Thurs 19th Jan, 12 noon: St Peter and Paul

Fri 20th Jan, 10 for 10.30am: Buxton Road URC

Sat 21st Jan, 9am: Our Lady of Grace and St Teresa of Avila

Mon 23rd Jan, 10am: Methodist Church Station Road

Tues 24th Jan, 8pm: The Ridgeway Evangelical Church

South Chingford

Wed 18th Jan: Old Church tbc

Thurs 19th Jan, 12noon: St Eds (Bring own lunch)

Fri 20th Jan: Christ the King tbc

Mon 23rd Jan, 7.30pm: Congregational Church Bible Study

Tues 24th Jan,12noon: Methodist Church New Road

Winchester Road

Sat 21st Jan, 9am: Our Lady of Grace and St Teresa of Avila

Mon 23rd Jan, 10am: Cavendish Road Baptist Church

Tues 24th Jan, 2.30pm: Winchester Road Methodist Church

Wed 25th Jan, 10am: All Saints Anglican Church

With every blessing,

Hilary

New Year Prayer 2017

By Daphne Kitching

Lord of the Years,

At the start of this New Year we ask for your presence, protection and guidance for every minute of every day of every month ahead.

Thank you that we do not go into this New Year alone.

Thank you for loving us so much that you gave us Jesus to lead us to you.

May we commit ourselves afresh to serve you, to love you and to share your love with those who don’t yet know you.

May we make a difference for your Kingdom in 2017.

In Jesus name.

Amen

2017 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Fri 13th Jan: Special fundraising coffee morning (see page 5)
Wed 18th – Wed 25th Jan: Churches Together in Highams Park week of prayer. For list of services, see Hilary’s letter
Sat 4th Feb: Jumble Sale
Fri 3rd March, 10.30am: Women’s World day of Prayer at All Saints
Sun 5th March: Uniformed Organisations Anniversary and Parade
Sun 19th March: The AGM will follow the morning service
Sun 21st May: Young Church Anniversary and Parade
Sun 9th July: All Age Worship and Parade
Sat 7th October: Craft Fair
Sat 25th November: Bazaar

Remember God in 2017

‘Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.’

– Corrie ten Boom

Fundraising Coffee Morning

Friday 13th January 9am – 12pm Winchester Road Church, Winchester Road, E4

Please join us for a cup of tea/coffee and some delicious homemade cake to continue our fundraising for Julie’s Cancer Treatment Fund

Invite your family and friends…everyone is welcome!!

Raffle

Nearly New Stall

Home Made Crafts Stall

Summoned by Bells, a poetic excursion.

Like the late Poet John Betjeman who entitled his blank verse autobiographical poem ‘Summoned by Bells’, our attention is grabbed by bells. The alarm clock rings to tell us to get up in the morning, a bell rings which summons us to open the front door, or the bell on the cooker which tells us our food is ready.

Many medieval Anglican churches were built with towers from where bells were rung to call worshippers to the service. At home I can just faintly hear the bells of Chingford Parish Church, though I suspect they are on disc and not rung by hand. In some churches a bell is rung at the high point of the communion service. At Wesley’s Chapel at the start of the service a bell is run calling the congregation to stand as, preceded by the preacher, the Bible is carried into church and is placed on the lectern. The TV News recently reported that the historic Whitechapel Bell foundry which dates from 1570 and has been making bells at its premises on Whitechapel Road since 1739 will close at that site next May. Many church bells and sets of hand bells were made here. The owners hope to restart bell making on another site sometime in the future.

John Betjeman’s often quoted Christmas poem opens with the line The bells of waiting advent ring and concludes

Not all the steeple-shaking bells

can with this simple truth compare

That god was Man in Palestine

and lives today in Bread and Wine.

On the first Sunday of Advent Tom Donaghue invited us to sing Fred Pratt Green’s hymn (StF 178) which takes up the theme of welcoming bells.

Ring bells, ring, ring, ring

Sing choirs sing, sing, sing!

when he comes,

who will make him welcome ?

Bells also figure in a popular Christmas Carol which does not appear in any of the Methodist Hymn Books and yet I know the words

Ding dong merrily on high

In heaven the bells are ringing

Ding dong! verily the sky

Is riv’n with angels singing

Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis

The words were written by George Ratcliff Woodward, an Anglican priest who served in London (Pimlico) and Walsingham in Norfolk. In 1924 he and the composer and Cambridge Professor of Music, Charles Wood published the Cambridge Carol Book which included this carol and another one by Woodward which you may know, It’s past three o’clock on a cold frosty morning. The tune for Ding Dong was adapted from a sixteenth century dance tune whose composer is unknown, and it is probably the only place where you can sing about bells being swungen and carols sungen.

The American Poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow takes us on to Christmas Day in his poem Christmas Bells which he wrote on Christmas morning at a dark time in his life. Two years before his wife had died of burns when her dress caught fire and he also suffered burns trying to put out the flames. In 1863 his 19 year old son, without his father’s knowledge went to fight in the American Civil War and, though he survived he received crippling gunshot wounds. These events are reflected in the poem but John Calkin who adapted Longfellow’s words and wrote the tune as a Christmas carol chose to omit the direct references to the civil war.

I heard the bells on Christmas Day

Their old familiar carols play

and wild and sweet the words repeat

Of peace on earth good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head

“There is no peace on earth I said,

For hate is strong and mocks the song

Of peace on earth goodwill to men

Should you wish to hear it sung you will need to Google your way to it on YouTube.

Bells can also mark key events in human life, peals of bells often ring out to celebrate the bride and groom leaving the church or is tolled at funeral services. On New Year’s Eve Big Ben chimes (a bell that was cast at the Whitechapel Foundry), fireworks explode and church bells welcome in the New Year. My final poem In Memoriam written by another Poet Laureate Alfred Lord Tennyson in memory of a university friend and includes the verses

Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky,

The flying cloud, the frosty light:

The year is dying in the night

Ring out, wild bells and let him die.

Ring out the old, ring in the new,

Ring happy bells, across the snow:

The year is going, let him go;

Ring out the false, ring in the true

We can conclude that bells signify both the passing of time and the welcome to good news, let us hope that they usher in peace during the coming year.

Allen Steel January 2017

JUMBLE SALE & COFFEE MORNING

Saturday 4th February 2017

10am till 12 noon

Some of the regular volunteers are not here for the jumble sale this year so if you can help in any way with the following then can you please let us know?To set out the tables from 5.30pm on Friday evening (3rd February)

To sort and collect jumble on Friday evening (3rd February) from 7pm
To serve on the stalls on the Saturday morning from 9.45am
To provide tea/coffee and run a cake stall
To make cakes for the cake stall
To come down at 12.00 on the Saturday to help clear up
To come down at 12.30 on the Saturday to take a car load to the Kings Road recycling centre & Low Hall tip (many hands make light work!)
To leaflet the local roads the weekend prior to the jumble sale

Please see Sarah Hayward or one of the Stewards if you are able to help in any way.

SPONSORED ABSEIL

This time last year I visited Haven House with Mary-Rose, and Joanne Lazarus came to speak to us about the work of Haven House.

After 10 years of nursing some very vulnerable children I am only too aware of the impact Haven House can make on a family. Therefore, I have taken on the challenge to abseil down the side of the Orbit in Olympic Park.

I have not done abseiling since I was a Guide so it will be a big challenge to test my sanity and fitness level!

I will be in church with an offline sponsor form or you can give a donation following this link:

www.havenhouse.org.uk/fundraisers/susan-is-being-brave

Thanks

Susan Knights

WEEKLY OFFERINGS

I have just received a new consignment of offertory envelopes. The company that supply them explain that they are now more user-friendly. I have a plentiful supply so if you are not using a standing order for your offering each Sunday and would like some envelopes Janice or I would only be too pleased to introduce you to a set.

Ron Clarke

THANK YOU

A group of around 15 hardy people, of musicians and singers, turned up to sing carols at Tesco on Monday 12th December.

We were at the bottom of the escalator so people walking through to the car park could have the benefit of our singing.

We raised £136.66 for Action for Children. Sterling work by all. We finished up with a cuppa afterwards in the Cafe.

Mary Burgoine

Bazaar 2016 – Thank You!

I have to admit that I was a little worried that there were quite a few bazaars in the local area on the same day as Winchester’s this year. I shouldn’t have worried as people took advantage and did a grand bazaar tour – and we had more people through the door than ever! The cake stall had virtually sold out within the first 2.5 hours! I know not many of you will have been able to hear them as you were frantically getting ready, but we had E4 Harmony singing outside for those waiting in the queue to get everyone in the mood.

The bazaar is a huge amount of work for everyone involved and as I looked around the helpers it was not just our church members, but also their families and their friends helping. We are very fortunate to have a huge support base from our uniformed organisations too so a particular thanks to them. We had volunteers from the groups and a significant amount of the £11,326 total was raised from donations of items from our uniformed groups and hall users.

Thank you too for the extra volunteers we had this year who helped with the pre-bazaar sorting and the physical setting up and clearing of the items and stalls – we cleared up in record time this year!

Don’t forget the date for our 2017 Bazaar is Saturday 25th November!

Sarah Hayward

Bazaar Co-ordinator

CUBS ARE 100

It was 100 years ago, on 16th December 1916 that the Wolf Cub section of the Scout movement was formed. A group of 12 cubs, and some leaders, from the 21st met with other cubs from around the district in the Town Square at the top of Walthamstow High St to celebrate that anniversary around a camp fire. We attracted quite a lot of attention from people coming home from work. After joining in the usual camp fire songs we renewed our promises at 19.16. We then went to McDonalds for a meal and back home on the train to Highams Park.

Roger Pettit

Young Church Nativity Service – Stations of the Nativity

Last year we saw another wonderful Nativity service from our Young Church. The Cookie Club (younger members) performed the traditional play while the Biscuit Club gave readings, read prayers and performed reflective skits about Christmas in the modern day created from their own ideas.

We learnt that some people start counting down to Christmas in August and enjoy tracking Santa’s journey on their phone on Christmas Eve. Meanwhile, back in Bethlehem, Dean’s Inn was so full, people were even sleeping on the roof and the three kings entertained us with their jazzy dance on their long journey to visit Jesus.

Thanks to Lindy for her wonderful costumes and to our stage managers Jan, Adele and Janet, who expertly ‘shepherded’ cast members on and off stage. Members of Biscuit Club also made up the technical crew, operating the screens. Finally, a huge thanks to Steve for becoming the pianist for the whole service after offering to play a few pieces.

Emily Bygrave

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME

A varied programme of speakers and members’ interests.

Meets on first and third Wednesday of the month at 2.30pm.

Wednesday 4th January: Musical Theme – Bring your favourite tune or sing to us.

Wednesday 18th January: TBC – Sister Josephine

Wednesday 1st February: TBC

Wednesday 15th February: Alan Burgoine plays for us

‘Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.’

~1 Thessalonians 5:11

ALEX FLETCHER

As I cautiously step into Dorothy’s shoes as the new Winchester News Editor, I thought I would share a bit about myself.

I grew up in Highams Park with my parents Jo and John Henderson, and our cat Sooty. I was christened at All Saints Church in Highams Park when I was two and we started coming to Winchester Road when I was five. I joined the Sunday School with Dorothy as one of my teachers and have fond memories of the various Sunday School outings and parties that we used to have and I remember the excitement of sitting in the ‘Birthday Chair’ or passing round the offertory basket. As I got older I went into the Junior Sunday School with John Dixon as one of my teachers and then went on to the Young Peoples Fellowship (YPF) led by Matthew Jackson. As a teenager and young adult I enjoyed occasionally helping out in the younger Sunday School and joined the crèche rota which I really enjoyed. I became a member of Winchester Road in 2005 just before my 20th birthday. Although my roots were at Winchester Road, I visited other churches for a while from which I gained new connections and experiences. However, I returned fully to Winchester Road in my late twenties.

I joined the 2nd Highams Park Rainbows (with Jean, Sue Jacobs and my mum as leaders) when I was 5 and went on to Brownies then Guides (with Janice and Mary-Rose as leaders) where I thoroughly enjoyed all of the opportunities available. Instead of moving on to Rangers, I became a Young Helper at Rainbows and then an assistant leader where I stayed until approximately 5 years ago when the 5th Highams Park Rainbows unit was due to close, so with Jean’s encouragement and assistance I am now the leader for this unit.

As a child I used to attend the dance school that met at the church and I enjoyed participating in the dance shows and wearing a variety of costumes that my mum would sew and create for me. (Thanks Mum!)

I also loved being in the Showtime shows which were put on every other year from 1990 to 1998 by the Winchester Road Scout and Guide Group. I also enjoyed being in the Waltham Forest Gangshows before deciding it was time to experience what it was like behind the scenes and as an adult I can now appreciate all the hard work which goes into these shows!

I attended Selwyn Infants School, Chingford C of E Junior School and then Davenant Foundation School and Sixth Form. I enjoyed the sports on offer and loved being part of the hockey and athletics teams.

I knew that university wasn’t for me and decided I would concentrate on becoming a Personal Assistant and undertook a course with Pitman Secretarial College. I secured my first job as a Junior PA at Christie’s auction house where I took a lot of minutes and started to gain experience in organising other people. I was 18 at the time and Christie’s was a very exciting place to work and it was a privilege to see the beautiful works of art.

Five years later I moved from the art world to the charity sector and worked at HQIP, a healthcare charity, for another five years and specifically worked in the National Joint Registry team where I learnt an awful lot about knee and hip replacements!

Then up until March last year I had been working as a PA to the CEO of Stewardship, a Christian charity whose emphasis is on giving and generosity. They offer a variety of services to churches, Christian workers and people wishing to manage their giving. It was a blessing to work there. We started each week with staff prayer on Monday morning, had a fellowship session on Wednesday morning, and there were different lunch or after work groups to participate in. It was a lovely place to work. However, after 10 years working in London I was on the lookout for a local job and was pleased when I was accepted to start at a local organisation. Unfortunately, the occasional weekend work I was prepared for turned out to be regular weekend work which was not feasible at the time so we parted company. Around the same time my Dad’s health had been deteriorating and he subsequently was in and out of hospital last year before moving into St Ives care home. God has a plan for everything and although I often don’t understand the reasoning behind things, I am thankful that I have been able to support my parents through a difficult year. I have no idea what I will be doing next but at the moment I am settling into the housewife role quite happily.

I met my husband Matt in 2011 on an internet dating site after several people in the space of a fortnight mentioned the same website to me, so I decided to take a look. One week later, Matt and I were emailing and chatting on the phone and agreed to meet up during one of my lunch breaks where we clicked straight away. After two years of dating he proposed, and I happily said ‘yes’! A year of planning later and we got married on a cold but beautiful day at Winchester Road in February 2014. We live in South Chingford and have two cats, Jessie and Jasper, adopted from the Cats Protection charity, who rule the roost.

Writing this has made me realise how many people from the church and uniformed organisation have played important roles in my life (unfortunately I didn’t have the space to name everyone), and I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to you all.

PARKING

I know this is a problem around the church but could I please ask members and friends not to park in the designated Disabled Parking bays in the roads around the church. There are several such bays in the immediate area. One in Winchester Rd, opposite the church, at least one in Wickham Rd and one each in Lyndhurst Rd & Alma Ave. These bays are not legally enforceable but the residents have had to go to a great deal of trouble with both Council and Health services to get their bays designated and find it most frustrating if they cannot park in them. We know how annoying it is when somebody parks in the church’s own bay, please be aware of our neighbours problems.

Thank you,

Roger Pettit

Home Energy Efficiency Training Ltd (HEET)

HEET is a not-for-profit organisation working in the London boroughs of Waltham Forest, Redbridge, Enfield and Haringey. We help those over 60 or low income households to:

Save money on fuel bills
Stay warm & healthy at home
Avoid becoming a victim of burglary or fire
Save energy & cut carbon emissions

For more information, visit:

www.theheetproject.org.uk

Trusted Trader Waltham Forest

Looking for a reliable trader for your job in Waltham Forest?

The Trusted Trader website allows you to search for a local trader that has been rated by HEET customers. All traders on this website will:

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For more information and a list of traders, visit:

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ALERT FROM ACTION FRAUD: LLOYDS BANK SCAM

Lloyds customers should be on the lookout for a new sophisticated fraud which involves fraudsters sending fake bank letters.

Action Fraud warn the “convincing” letters being sent are a replica template from Lloyds Bank and include their logo, address and signature from a customer service representative.

The letter tells recipients that there have been some “unusual transactions” on their personal account and asks them to call a number highlighted in bold to confirm they are genuine.

When victims call the number, an automated welcome message is played and the caller is asked to enter their card number, account number and sort code followed by their date of birth. Victims are then instructed to enter the first and last digit of their security number.

The fraud was spotted by the Daily Telegraph, which was alerted to it by a reader who had three identical letters sent to an office address.

On separate occasions, the Daily Telegraph ran some tests using fake details and were passed to fraudsters, who claimed to be from a Lloyds contact centre. The bank has confirmed that the phone number and letters are fake.

The letters are essentially a sophisticated phishing attempt and serves as a warning to consumers to question written correspondence from their banks.

If you are ever suspicious about correspondence from your bank you should call the customer serviced number on the back of your card.

To report a fraud and cyber crime, call us on 0300 123 2040 or visit http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report_fraud

On 6 January we celebrate Epiphany – the visit of the wise men to the baby Jesus. But who were these wise men? No one knows for sure. Matthew calls them ‘Magi’, and that was the name of an ancient caste of a priestly kind from Persia. It wasn’t until the third century that they were called kings – by a church father, Tertullian.

Another church father, Origin, assumed there were three – to correspond with the gifts given. Later Christian interpretation came to understand gold as a symbol of wisdom and wealth, incense as a symbol of worship and sacrifice, and myrrh as a symbol of healing – and even embalming. Certainly Jesus challenged and set aright the way in which the world handled all three of these things. Since the eighth century, the magi have had the names Balthasar, Caspar and Melchior.

Jesus is Watching

A burglar got into a house one night. Shining his flashlight on the floor in the dark, he heard a voice saying, “Jesus is watching you.”

He looked around nervously, shook his head, and kept looking for valuables. He again heard, “Jesus is watching you.”

This time, he shone his light all over, and it rested on a parrot.

He asked, “Did you say that?”

The parrot admitted that it had. “I’m just trying to warn you, that’s all.”

The burglar said, “Warn me, huh? Who are you? What’s your name?”

“Moses.”

“Well, what kind of silly people would name a parrot ‘Moses’?”

The bird answered, “I don’t know; I guess the same people who would name a Rottweiler ‘Jesus’.”

DECEMBER 2016 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends

This year, I helped to put up the Christmas Tree at South Chingford. It is about twelve feet tall and once the main stem was in place, the branches were added one by one. It took a while to assemble, but at last it was complete and ready to decorate. The baubles and decorations enhanced it, and the lights made it come to life, illuminating it on a rather dull November day.

It was Martin Luther who first had the idea of bringing a tree into the house at Christmas as he walked home through a forest and admired the stars in the night sky. In 1848, Prince Albert had a Christmas Tree installed at Windsor Castle. Initially, real candles were used to decorate the tree, but were replaced in 1895 by the electric or fairy lights that we have today.

December brings us to the darkest month of the year. Daylight is with us for eight hours at best on a good day. We close our curtains early to block out the dark and the cold, and instead turn lights on to eliminate the gloom.

Jesus is sometimes referred to as ‘the light of the world’. He lived at a time when Israel was under occupation by the Romans and life must have been tough for everyone. As he grew and became a man, he shared his life with the people around him, and so brought light to the lives of many. He continues to be a source of light in a world that often seems dark and foreboding.

At Christmas, John’s gospel reminds us that Jesus came to bring light, a light that shines in the darkness and has never been extinguished. As a church we need to continue to shine in the lives of all whom we meet and to be the Christ-light to all who are in darkness. If you have benefitted from help from another person assisting you through life’s difficulties and troubles, you will know how welcome such support is.

This December, let your light shine, be a friend to a neighbour, or to someone who has no visitors. Do something to help a person in need. Share the love of God with the people you meet.

In the Christmas carol, ‘O little town of Bethlehem’ we sing the words ‘Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light’, reminding us that however bleak life may seem, the light that the Christ-child came to bring burns brightly, as much today as it did two thousand years ago.

Leo and I would like to wish you a Happy Christmas, wherever and with whomever you may be spending the festive season, and may all your Christmases be light!

Hilary

FAREWELL

This is the last edition of the newsletter that I shall edit. I have enjoyed the last nine years, it has been good fun even if I had the occasional mild panic that I wouldn’t have enough material to fill it.

I have so many people I would like to thank for all their help, Allen and especially Bob Borrow, our printer. He has taught me so much. When I started I did not know what a pdf file was, how to group, add attachments to emails and how to upload files! Also thanks to all the contributors, and the people who collected the newsletter from me to take down to the Church.

I am so pleased to say that Alex Fletcher will be taking over as editor and her first edition will be the January one. Her contact details are listed on page 18.

Dorothy

I have received a letter from Rosemary Rawlinson, Betty Brown’s daughter to say Betty died suddenly from a blood clot on the 10th October.

Rosemary wishes friends at Winchester to know of Betty’s passing’

Please remember the family in your prayers.

I have Rosemary’s address if anyone would like it.

Mary Burgoine

FOODBANK
On Monday 19th December the Foodbank will be issuing food for two weeks, as the Foodbank is not open on Boxing Day, and any items you donate in the weeks leading up to this will be especially welcome.

Also on Monday the 19th the Foodbank would like to give a present to each child and is appealing for new toys, wrapped and marked with boy/girl and age. If you are able to donate a gift please hand to Mary Rose French, Pat Ovenden or Jan Dent by Sunday 18th December, preferably soon,and we will make sure the gifts get there in time.

Advent candles tell their story (STF 165)

We are now in the season of Advent, the days when we prepare ourselves for the birth of Jesus. Like many Liturgical seasons the beginning of Advent is not a fixed date, but begins on the nearest Sunday to the feast of St. Andrew the apostle which this year was November 20^th. The word advent simply means coming or arrival. From Advent Sunday we will begin our services with the Advent Liturgy and Sylvia will set up our church Advent Candle wreath, and I will be raiding garden and lane to find foliage for our home wreath.

The wheel shaped ring of leaves symbolises the continuity of life, holly with its prickly leaves and red berries represents the crown of thorns and the blood of Christ shed for us. The photo shows our last year’s wreath. Each Sunday during Advent an additional candle will be lit until on Christmas morning the central white candle will be lit to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the light of the world.

In the early Christian church this time of the year looked forward to the second coming of Christ but over time the first coming, the nativity, the birth of Jesus came to be the focus of the four weeks of advent. It was kept by Christian churches as a time for prayer and fasting, a time to remember the promise of the Messiah to Israel and that Jesus Christ has come and will come again, this is the essence of Advent. We are familiar with the Old Testament promises recorded in the prophecy of Isaiah as they are key readings in the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols and we also recall them from the King James Version used by Charles Jennens for the text of Handel’s Oratorio ‘ The Messiah’.

Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God (Is 40 v 2) And the Glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together. …..Is 40 v 5

Singing the Faith has a collection of Advent Hymns in a section which is headed The Promised Christ: Advent

The hymn traditionally associated with Advent is Come O come Emmanuel (StF 180) which is based on old Latin chants that were inserted into the nightly service of vespers sung in monasteries each evening during the last seven nights before the Christ Mass. They are thought to date from the sixth or possibly the eighth century. Each of the chants began with the cry ‘O’ followed by one of the attributes of Jesus and has a link to the prophecy of Isaiah. The adaptation and expansion of these chants into a hymn may only be traced back to a Latin collection of hymns published in Germany around 1710. The noted 19^th century translator John Mason Neal, who was a supporter of the Oxford Movement which aimed to reintroduce liturgy and Roman Catholic practices into the Church of England, made the translation which we recognise for the Anglican Hymns Ancient and Modern in 1861. The tune has been traced back to processional chants in a 15^th century manuscript in the National Library of France. It concludes with the verse

O come, O Day-spring , come and cheer

Our spirits by your advent here;

Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,

And death’s dark shadows put to flight.

If this old style hymn is not to your liking you might like to choose one from the newer offerings of Singing the Faith several of which make reference to the use of candles. John Bell is the author who brings the Candle Wreath to the foreground giving the significance of each candle in the first two lines of each verse. (StF 166.)

The Christ is coming !

The church is glad to sing,

And let the advent candles

brightly burn in a ring

The first is for God’s promise to put the wrong things right
The second for the prophets who said that Christ would come
The third is for the Baptist , who cried prepare the way
The fourth is for the virgin who mothered God’s own son
At last we light the candle Kept new for Christmas Day

Christ is among us.

The candles in the ring

Remind us that our Saviour

Will light up everything.

Allen Steel, December 2016

We have heard the following sad news from Pat Mackean in New Zealand. Pat was formerly a member at Winchester.

I am writing to tell you that my dear husband Rod passed away on the 10th November 2016 after a short stay in hospital;.

Thank you to everyone for their concerns and prayers. My family appreciate your prayers at this time.

A special thank you to Hilary for her message in the November “Winchester News”, which arrived on the Friday 9th, I found it very helpful to me, even though Hillary only knows me by name.

Pat

Mary Burgoine writes

Rod was a man of few words, but his actions were great, He was very caring and he had time for everyone. We hope he didn’t suffer any prolonged discomfort. Over the years he has had various health problems, but somehow you expected each time that he would pull through. Unfortunately it didn’t happen this time.

It is good that Trevor and his family live closer now, they will be a great comfort.

A CHRISTMAS PRAYER

Father,

Thank you for creating us and loving us so much that you sent Jesus to become one of us and to be our way to you. This Christmas may we know the love, peace, comfort and joy that only you can give, no matter what our circumstances. And may we reflect your light and love in this dark world to bring glory to you.

In Jesus’ name.

Amen

Dorothy and I spent a very happy evening ensconced in front of our ‘telly’ watching the CD’s of Jack and the Beanstalk.

I am not writing a review of the show, I only want to say that we have not enjoyed an evenings entertainment so much for a very long time.

Everyone put their heart and soul into it and we just thought how lucky we were to have been able to share all their enthusiasm. What a wonderful Church family and friends.

Ron Clarke

NEWS FROM E4 EAT OR HEAT

How time flies!! I hadn’t realized that it’s been over a year since we last sent a newsletter out!

Looking back on previous newsletters they were all pretty much in the same vein that we were continually amazed at how donations keep arriving here for the Food Bank. The last newsletter mentioned that the cupboard was almost bare, but we were re-stocked almost immediately due to some very generous donations of produce and money.

We have recently received Harvest donations from local churches and schools, which historically have been one of our main sources of provisions.

We really do feed people in Chingford and for so many different reasons, we often hear people saying that they could not survive if it weren’t for the Food Bank, which is a very humbling statement to hear.

We do not really have a ‘typical’ client they are as varied as the reasons for the need, but basically they all find themselves in a difficult situation that sometimes can seem hopeless to get out of, but some do find their circumstances improve and we recently had a young lady return to us, but to make a donation as she was so grateful for the help she received when she most needed it. We have also had a thank you card from another client who stated that the Food Bank had been a ‘life saver’!

We see individuals as well as families with children of all ages, they all live in Chingford and of course the children attend our local schools.

I did a quick check back in the records recently, which showed that the need for the Food Bank continues to grow in this town. Our first distribution was in May 2013 and during the rest of that year we helped 40 people. In 2014 we helped 122, 2015 it was 134 and since January this year to date we have reached 196! So we are going to have helped at least 200 families/people this year.

We will be distributing Christmas treats on 19^th December to our clients in the hope that they will be able to have a slightly better Christmas than they would have otherwise.

We have also had more offers of help from volunteers, which is very timely with the increased number of referrals we now have.

Distribution takes place on Monday mornings from 9.30am to 11am at South Chingford Congregational Church in Chingford Mount Road (corner of Hampton Road).

Many thanks and every blessing

Julia on: 07970 542852 or e-mail e4.eatorheat@gmail.com

Bazaar 2016

Once again we had an excellent result for the bazaar.

Below are the individual amounts raised by the stalls

Admissions 340.61

Books 781.90

Bric a Brac 411.74

Cation ( stocking fillers ) 71.10

Christmas gifts 595.45

Dorothy ( cards ) 391.20

Donation 43.05

E Bay – virtual stall 346.46

Jams and Pickles 1,120.60

Jewellry 198.30

Keep fit 180.96

Raffle 636.00

Refreshments ( Dinners etc ) 1232.95

Scout and Guide Group

Father Christmas 247.40

Craft Room 250.00

Cakes, 886.31

Tombola & Lucky Dip 219.30 1603.01

Sharon ( embroidery ) 563.50

Beth 44.40

Stationery 306.80

Soft toys 1363.87

Sweets 250.45

New Toys 216.30

DVD’s 175.90

2^nd Hand Toys) 441.83

Total: 11,316.38

We would like to thank everyone who worked so hard on the day and

throughout the year.

And a big thank you to all those who came and spent their money.

A COPY OF THE LETTER SENT TO EVERYONE CONNECTED WITH JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

Dear Cast, Parents, Backstage and Volunteers

It gives me great pleasure to inform you all that through your fantastic efforts, we are able to present to Winchester Road Church the sum of £2,850.00 towards ‘The Hub’ building fund.

When we look back and look at the combined efforts of ‘everyone’ involved, I know that we could not have achieved a wonderful show together without your support and the dedication and talented people of individuals and teams involved. To you all, whatever your role in the show – THANK YOU!

Our special thanks go towards Maureen, the team leaders, the hard working wardrobe team, our sponsors, the people who donated raffle prizes, our fund raising team and the wonderful organizers and helpers for the ‘afternoon tea’ for the extra time and effort they put in was certainly worthwhile.

Once again we have come together to prove that young people and adults can work together and prove to our audience in what now appears to be another Winchester Road Church success and can only be good for our church youth and our members of Scouting and Guiding.

Please cascade this to members of your team even if they receive this more than once.

Regards and best wishes

Mike

Show Co-ordinator

WHY WAS JESUS BORN IN A BARN?

Our pretty Christmas cards do not do it a justice—the stable that Jesus was born in would have been smelly, dirty and full of mess. So why did God not provide something better for His beloved Son? Why let Joseph and Mary scrounge around until they ended up in a smelly stable?

Perhaps because the King of Kings being born in a foul stable is a perfect picture of redemption. Jesus came from glory into a world filled with the dirt, filth and darkness of sin. And Jesus was not put off by darkness in the least—instead, He came to be the Light of the World.

Thank God for His unspeakable gift. No wonder the angels sang “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men”. (Luke 2:14)

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Fri 9th Dec 10.45am Children’s Nativity at 10.45am in Room 2. Interactive

story telling, songs and music led by Rev. Hilary Cheng for children 5 and under with parents or

carers

Mon 12th 5.30-6.30pm Carol Singing in Tesco’s store

Sun 18th 10.30am Nativity Play presented by the Young Church

Sun 18th 4.00pm Carol Service

Sat 24th 5.00pm Christmas Eve Service at South Chingford

Sun 25th 10.30am Christmas Day Service

2017 JANUARY

18th-25th Churches Together in Highams Park Week of Prayer includes

service at Winchester on Tuesday 23rd at 2.30pm

Sun 22nd 10.30am Covenant Service

Sun 29th 10.30am Parade and All Age Worship Service

Sat 4th Feb Jumble Sale

The Weather Man

A long time ago in Communist Russia there was a famous weather man named Rudolf.

He always had a 100% accuracy rate for his forecasts of the Russian weather conditions. His people loved him and respected him for his faultless foresight. He was particularly good at predicting rain. One night, despite clear skies, he made the prediction on the 6.00pm news broadcast that a violent storm was approaching. It would flood the town in which he and his wife lived. He warned the people to take proper precautions and prepare for the worst.

After he arrived home that evening, his wife met him at the door and started arguing with him that his weather prediction was the most ridiculous thing she had ever heard. This time, she said, he had made a terrible mistake. There wasn’t even a cloud anywhere within ten miles of the village. As a matter of fact, that day had been the most beautiful day that the town had ever had and it was quite obvious to everyone it wasn’t going to rain.

He told her to be quiet and listen to him, if he said it was going to rain, IT WAS GOING TO RAIN. He had all of his Russian heritage behind him and he knew what he was talking about. she argued that although he came from a proud Russian heritage, IT STILL WASN’T GOING TO RAIN.

They argued back and forth for hours, so much that they went to bed mad at each other.

During the night, sure enough one of the worst storms hit the village, the likes of which they had never seen. That morning when Rudolf and his wife arose, they looked out of the window and saw all the water that had fallen that night.

“See”, said Rudolf, I told you it was going to rain.”

His wife admitted, “Once again your prediction came true. But I want to know, just how were you so accurate, Rudolf?”

To which he replied, “You see, Rudolf the Red knows rain dear!”

On behalf of the church community I would like to thank Dorothy Clarke for producing the church Newsletter for many years. We are very grateful to you Dorothy for all your years of service, and wish you well as you ‘retire’. We welcome Alex Fletcher as our new editor. Thank you Alex, for taking on this role.

Hilary

NOVEMBER 2016 NEWSLETTER

Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

The last week of October sees the performance of Jack and the Beanstalk at Winchester Road Methodist Church. It was written by a member of the congregation and I have a small part in the performance, as the Pearly Queen. Not having much stage experience, I was pleased to know that mine would be a cameo role with not too many lines to learn. What I did not know was that all my words would be in Cockney rhyming slang!

Once I had got my head round the language and understood what everything meant, I set about trying to remember the lines. I was fine at home, without my words in front of me, but as soon as I got to rehearsal, I would get into my speech and then forget the words. I soon realised that the same thing was happening to my fellow actors, and was reassured that the first time we try to manage without the script, this can happen. At the time of writing, the Pantomime has not yet taken place so I ‘hope it will be all right on the night’!

As long as Jesus was present with the disciples in person, they were fine. When he was crucified, his disciples went back to their old way of living until Jesus was raised from the dead and reappeared to them. It was only then that they were strengthened in knowing that even though Jesus was no longer with them visibly, he was always beside them spiritually and that his presence would be with them in every situation. Knowing that Jesus was there, even though they could not see him, reassured them in the same way as me not having the script in front of me, reminds me that I do know the words ( I just hope I remember them!) If all else fails, we have a prompt!

Sometimes, in order to move on in life, we have to let go of our fears and doubts and remember that God is watching over us, all day every day, and through the night as we sleep too. That is a wonderfully comforting thought. He knows our every need, He hears our prayers. We need to have the courage to trust that He is working on our case, and giving us strength and courage when we most need it.

May God’s blessings surround us each day,

Hilary

The Olney Hymns

On a recent Sunday morning Chris and I attended a morning service with one of our granddaughters held in a hall by the Cornerstone Evangelical Church which she attends. For some weeks in their services the mainly young congregation had been following John Bunyan’s Pilgrims Progress in which he describes a dream where his pilgrim, Christian, journeys to the Holy City. The whole service was taken from several chapters the preacher telling and commenting on the events which happened to Christian. In the illustration, left, Christian meets Mr Worldly Wise.

The narrative was punctuated by songs and hymns led by a small group with a lead singer backed by guitars, electric piano and a frenetic drummer. Most of the hymns were modern including one by the duo of Keith Getty and Stuart Townend, names familiar to us thanks to Singing the Faith, plus one hymn from the pen of the 18^th century poet William Cowper. Having written about Bunyan and Townend in previous editions of Winchester News I thought I should tackle Cowper.

William Cowper (pronounced Cooper) was born in Hertfordshire and like Charles Wesley was educated at Westminster School where he acquired a love of, and fluency, in Latin and Greek. He trained as a solicitor but made little progress in his chosen career, despite having rooms in the legal area around the Temple Church off Fleet Street. He was offered the chance to become Clerk of Journals to the House of Lords but suffered a deep depression just before attending an interview for the post. Saved from a suicide attempt he was committed to a private asylum run by an evangelical Christian in St Albans. On his release he became the lodger in the home of a retired clergyman Rev. Morley Unwin and his wife Mary and moved with them when they came to live at Olney in Buckinghamshire. It was here that he met the man who became his friend and helper the local Anglican curate John Newton.

Newton’s prodigal life as a young man and his involvement in the Slave Trade as the captain of a slave ship are well known. Following his conversion which began during a storm at sea in 1748 Newton turned to evangelical Christianity, though he did not immediately abandon his captaincy of Slave ships. It was not until 1757 when he had given up seafaring that he felt the call to serve as a minister. He studied hard and after trying to join the Methodists he was finally ordained in the Anglican Church. From 1764 he was curate at Olney for 16 years after which he became Rector of St Mary Woolnooth in the city of London for the last 28 years of his life. He died in 1807 aged 82. Though he was a noted preacher his fame rests on the hymns that he wrote and published whilst at Olney including;

Amazing grace,(StF440)

Glorious things of Thee are spoken ( StF748)

How sweet the name of Jesus sounds in a believers ear (StF 322).

Newton’s friendship and care of William Cowper led him to invite Cowper to contribute some hymns to a collection which he published as Olney Hymns in 1779. The book was compiled for ordinary country people who attended week night meetings held in homes which Newton introduced to the parish. These followed the lead of the early Methodists who were active at this time. Newton admitted that the shy sensitive and troubled Cowper had the greater poetic gift. Three of Cowper’s hymns are found in Singing the Faith, the most often sung being;

God moves in a mysterious way his wonders to perform (StF 104)

Hark my soul it is the Lord,‘tis thy saviour hear his word (StF 426)

If you look back into the old Methodist Hymn book you will find that nine of his hymns were included in it, among those left out are

Hark my soul it is the Lord (MHB 432)

O for a closer walk with God (MHB 461)

Sometimes light surprises the Christian while he sings (MHB 527)

Jesus where’er thy people meet. (MHB 675).

After Newton’s departure Cowper was plagued by periods of severe depression during which he was nursed by Mary Unwin who was now a widow. His later years were spent at East Dereham in Norfolk where he died in 1800 aged 69. Cowper also wrote a range of poetry alongside the hymns/religious poems, these made him one of the most widely read of poets of the 18th century. He was praised by both William Wordsworth and the poet Laureate Robert Southey.

To return to the start of this article. The hymn of Cowper’s which we sang at that contemporary evangelical service was a hymn which reflected the anguish in Cowper’s life and dwelt on the aspect of Christ’s sacrifice using language which is not often used today.

There is a fountain filled with blood

Drawn from Emanuel’s’ veins;

And sinners plunged beneath that flood

Lose all their guilty stains. (MHB 201)

Allen Steel November 2016

MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING

Thanks to everyone who made cakes, helped on the day and those who came along to support the event or made a donation.

We raised £310.50 and had a lovely morning.

Pat Ovenden

SPIDERS

If you don’t like spiders coming into your house—there is a magic cure!

Just pick up some conkers and put them on windowsills, by air vents, in the corners of rooms, by doors and this will discourage them from coming in.

It does work—I have being doing it for a couple of years.

Dorothy

GOOD OLD ADVENT!

On the last Sunday in November the Church celebrates Advent. In popular thought this is seen as the start of the Christmas season. Advent Calendars are on sale in the supermarkets. Christmas, our annual festival of excess, is just a few weeks away. Good old Advent!

I yield to no one in my enjoyment of Christmas, with all the trimmings, but where Advent is concerned I have to be a bit of a party-pooper. It’s not the start of the ‘run-up’ to Christmas, whatever the shops think. In any case, they’ve been ‘running up’ since September. Advent is a solemn but exciting reminder that Christmas is not the end of the Christmas story, but the beginning.

The end, with which Advent is concerned, is the ultimate triumph of love and goodness over evil and cruelty. The final loving purpose of God will be achieved. The kingdom of heaven will lie before us, its gates permanently open. ‘Death will be no more, mourning and crying and pain will be no more’, God says, ‘I am making everything new’.

‘Advent’ simply means ‘Coming’. The first Advent was Christmas, the second Advent will be when all that the coming of Jesus promised will be fulfilled. Yes, it’s a bit more complicated than a cattle shed and a manger, but it’s a wonderful prospect. Good old Advent!

CRAFT FAIR

Despite the sporadic bouts of rain our fourth annual Craft Fair was well supported by the local community. We had a great variety of crafts for sale including handmade cards, sewn and quilted gifts, hand knitted scarves and toys, jewellery, pottery, delightfully fragranced toiletries, tasty jams and chutneys, artistic photos and prints as well as scrummy homemade fudge and truffles. It was a fantastic opportunity to start your Christmas shopping and then treat yourself to a bite of lunch or a cake from our renowned refreshment team.

Thank you to everyone that supported the event from those who delivered flyers, made items for our stall, baked cakes for refreshments, helped on the day or came and spent their money. This helped us to achieve an amazing total of £1076.85 including monies raised by Church stalls.

Next year’s event is already booked in for Saturday 7th October 2017 so put it in your diary now. And if you can find time to make a few items for the church stall that would be fab!

Debbie Crawford

SHOEBOXES FOR TEAM 4U

On Sunday evening, at Loughton Methodist Church, on November 11th Dave Cooke will be speaking at an informal service about Team 4U where our shoeboxes will be going this year. He is the man who had the idea 25 years ago when he took a lorry to Romania to give a present of shoeboxes filled with goodies to children in orphanages. The idea grew very rapidly and now it is worldwide.

If anyone would like to attend the service could they let me know please.

Sylvia Dixon

On behalf of Heather and Carol, I would like to thank all who generously supported them when they ran the Cheltenham Half Marathon. They completed the run in 2 hours 45 minutes and raised the magnificent total to date of £2,206 (including Gift Aid) for the asbestos charity Mesothelioma UK.

Carol is now entered for the London Marathon, so watch this space.

Many thanks.

Bruce MacSweeney

AN EVENING WITH THE STARS at All Saints Church on 14th October which was cancelled due to illness will now take place on Friday 25th November. Those who purchased tickets for the original date can use them or if you go to V & A Books in the Avenue you will receive a refund. There are still tickets available. The concert is in aid of fundraising for the organ.

On Sunday 23rd October, Jean Norton, Emily and Louise Bygrave were confirmed and welcomed into the family of Winchester Road Methodist Church.

We wish them every good wish as they become Church members.

Stewards

We are looking for two new stewards to take up office in April. If you think you can help with this or would like to know more details, please contact Hilary or speak to one of the stewards. Please do consider carefully whether you can help in this way.

Compassionate Father

You are Sovereign. Your plans and timing are not always easy for us to understand. but we trust you and know that you love us and only want good things for us.

At this time of Remembering, when so many are sad, thank you for giving your only Son, Jesus, so that if we believe and trust in Him we have the promise of eternal life and re-union with all who loved Him too. We choose to believe and trust, in Jesus’ name.

Amen

Daphne Keating

Friday Coffee Mornings

All money raised from our Friday Coffee Mornings will be donated to charity.

So far we have raised:

£200 for Haven House.

Our special Coffee Morning, on 30^th September, raised: £310.50 for Macmillan

Thank you for your support.

Our current, nominated charity is:

MS Action which gives therapy and support to those suffering with MS and Cerebral Palsy.

HELP WANTED

We are looking for people to help on the Coffee Corner rota, serving refreshments after morning service. If you can offer to help with this it would be appreciated.

We would also like more people to welcome people as they arrive at Church and hand out the hymnbooks. If you could help once a month with this, we would be grateful.

If you haven’t a role within the life of the Church and would like to be involved, we would be pleased to hear from you. Please have a word with Hilary or with one of the Stewards.

JAN DENT

I transferred my membership to Winchester nearly 20 years ago but often I still feel a newcomer as so many have grown up, and even met their partners, at the church. During those years I have made many friends and do feel very much part of ‘the family’ that is ‘Winchester’!

I consider myself an ‘East Ender’ having been born, and always lived in the area. Born in Ilford, I lived in Hainault until I was 10. We went to a Baptist church at the time, although I confess I cannot recall anything about the church. We then moved to Wanstead and attended Hermon Hill Methodist Church. My brother and I were made members, but not until we were christened. Embarrassing for us as teenagers and upsetting for Mum as we had been ‘dedicated’ at the Baptist church when we were babies and she felt we had been ‘christened’.

We were very involved in many aspects of the church, as I recall, with Dad running a successful youth club, Mum the Guides, my brother Scouts, one sister Cubs and my younger sister and I Brownies. The Sunday school at the time was well attended and during the refurbishment of the church, the ‘Beginners’ met at our house. Every Sunday we would bring the little wooden chairs up from the cellar and set them up in a circle in the lounge before going off to church. Parents dropped their toddlers off at the house and picked them up later. (Not sure that could happen in today’s security conscious age.) They were startled one Sunday when the tortoise, that was waking from hibernation in a box behind the sofa, wandered into the middle of the circle!

As a child I was impossibly shy and used to hide when the doorbell rang! Mum always said that it was Brownies that brought me out of my shell. I am not sure how I thought I could be a teacher but that is what I decided when I was nine. The rest, as they say, is history! I can remember Mathew Bird’s reaction when, in 2011, as I retired from full time teaching, I said I had always been at school! Having started at 5, I went straight to college at 18, no ‘gap years’ then, and having returned home got a job in Walthamstow. I worked as a teacher in several different schools in Waltham Forest for over 30 years. I later moved to Redbridge to work in Outreach and later part time, in a school in Barkingside, until retiring in the summer.

Whilst at college in Bognor Regis I was lucky to meet new friends who were also Christians and as well as attending the local Methodist Church and helping with the Brownies there, I also went on several ‘Guild’ holidays with them, something I had enjoyed with the family as a teenager.

Having joined CADOS (Chingford Amateur Dramatic and Operatic Society) I enjoyed ‘treading the boards’ at Chingford Assembly Hall, in the back row of the chorus. We used to put on a pantomime straight after Christmas and a friend and I were in charge of the props. During one show we had to set a number of scenes behind lines of curtains. We got quicker during the many performances and on one occasion ran on to strike a set just as the curtains opened for the start of that scene. It was all good fun and I made many friends with whom we are still in contact. Mike was one of the leading actors in CADOS. My parents had married at Hermon hill and 30 years later this was where Mike and I also got married.

We lived in Walthamstow for 10 years and having drifted away from the church I started to go to the Lighthouse, where again I was involved with Brownies for a while.

We moved to Highams Park in 1988, but having friends in CADOS who attended North Chingford I became a member there. We adopted Caroline in 1990, when she was 9 months old, and she and I caught the bus to North Chingford each Sunday. At the age of seven Caroline began to question this as some of her school friends attended Winchester Road. We started to come to Winchester and Caroline joined guides as well as Sunday School and Youth Fellowship. Then, as now, there were quite a number of youngsters at the church which helped to encourage the young people to come more regularly.

I enjoy living in the area, with easy access to London as well as Epping Forest. I had never been in a plane until I was 20 and although have since had various holidays abroad I always enjoy ‘coming home’.

SCARE IT

A man had the courage, but not always the skills to tackle any home repair projects. For example, his garage was littered with the pieces of a lawn mower he had tried to fix. One day his wife found him in the living room attacking the vacuum cleaner with a screwdriver. “I can’t get this thing to co-operate!”, he exclaimed. His wife replied, “Why don’t you just drag it out to the garage and show it what happened to the lawnmower

Fifty Years On – Peter Dawe

It seems incredible that it is now just over fifty years since I first arrived in London on an October Sunday in 1966. I travelled from Dorchester in Dorset to read Medieval and Modern History at University College, London. I was the last student in the intake to actually make the whole journey to London by steam train as the line from Weymouth to Waterloo was the last to have them running in to London for another ten months.

I stayed in a hall of residence near St. Pancras station for my first two years and the first week at UCL was busy. I was unable to go to church on the following Sunday as the History Department then and now takes its ‘fresher’s away to a residential conference at Cumberland Lodge in Windsor Great Park. I got to know the wide variety of people who were to be my colleagues for the next three years and form friendships which have lasted to the present day, many revived in recent years thanks to Google and subsequent emails.

London was the place to be in the late 60s – between my interview in January and going up in October, Time magazine had published its famous front cover with the title – ‘London the City that Swings’. The phrase Swinging London has lasted to describe the city at that time. In addition to the social scene I had the opportunity to study with some of the leading historians of their periods as my teachers.

We were a wide cross section of people. It was an experience to actually be taught alongside females for the first time since the age of seven. There were 32 of us (today there are over three times that number of undergrads) – a real cross section of English society both in social background and geographically, all united by our love of our subject and some of us a desire for a good time.

I have organised reunions for us in 2006, 40 years from coming up; 2009, 40 years from graduation, 2009 – to bridge the gap, and then October 1st a few weeks ago for the 50^th. There were ten of us there (8 males and 2 females), a third of the intake as sadly two people have died, plus five graduates from other Years who knew us.

Again all human life was there – the current Anglican Archbishop of Wales, a former diplomat whose career included being Governor of the Turks & Caicos Islands (look that up on an atlas), a retired Canon Precentor of Newcastle Cathedral, a Prison Governor, a psychotherapist and several of us lesser mortals who had been teachers.

I had already taken two of the four Local Preachers exams in the sixth form and was already On Trial in my home circuit. I went to Hinde Street church and joined London University Methodist Society (Methsoc). The whole gallery of the church was filled with around 200 students most of whom had met earlier in the afternoon for tea and a speaker. There was a wide variety of speakers ranging from MPs to the principal of Wesley House, Cambridge, who I guess was trying to gain recruits for the ordained ministry, and other Methodist worthies.

During the week we met in groups to study a religious book – I have still some of them on my shelves – John Robinson ‘But That I can’t Believe’ and Geoffrey Parrinder ‘The World’s Living Religions’ come to mind among others. On Sundays after the service the groups would also go on to somebody’s flat or room in hall to talk further. Methsoc also ran social events, usually film or theatre visits, as well doing practical social work, again largely based on the groups.

I remember that one project was ‘Operation Chelsea’ when we knocked on people’s doors or stopped them in the street to ask them about the needs of the area on behalf of Chelsea Methodist Church. One of the students who was at LSE produced a full report on the project.

We also took services, provided that the group of students had a Local Preacher or one On Trial to take responsibility for them. I remember going to Ashford in Middlesex (now Surrey) and Harlesden – two contrasting congregations.

Another lasting memory is along with other students breaking our usual routine to go to a Sunday morning service in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in 1969. Cardinal Heenan, the Archbishop of Westminster, was the guest preacher. It was the first time that a Catholic priest had preached in a non-Catholic church in England – quite an event particularly to one whose great interest then was in sixteenth century history.

I owe much to the Probationer Minister, Rev Michael Wedgeworth with his Yorkshire wit and friendliness who was responsible for working with students. I took my final LP exam in his flat where his mini-skirted wife Pat kept serving me coffee as I was writing away. I must have been inspired by something as I won the Swire Prize for the highest mark in the Worship and Preaching Exam in 1968 aged only 20 and was put on Full Plan in June that year. I hope that I have lived up to it since.

Again close friendships were made particularly in the groups as well as in the wider Methsoc where I was able to meet another wide range of people but this time from different colleges and studying different disciplines.

Six of us who came up to Methsoc fifty years ago met on October 16th: it was also the fiftieth anniversary when the one married couple in our number met for the first time. After joining the morning communion service at Hinde Street we went on to lunch.

There were two local preachers, a minister, a former church secretary, a former church treasurer and one of us who never left Hinde Street and wrote the history of the church (Alan Brooks – “West End Methodism” – pub. Northway 2010) amongst our number. We relived stories from the late 60s and all agreed that Methsoc was a great influence on our lives, our choice of careers and our faith.

Four years on from 1966 I came to Waltham Forest as a teacher and have stayed ever since being involved in the community in many spheres over the decades. I owe much not only to my education but also to the influence of Methsoc and the way it linked worship, theology and social action.

Peter Dawe

PRESIDENT and VICE-PRESIDENT BLOGS

Rev Roger Walton and Rachel Lampard MBE

If you have access to the internet you can follow their day to day programme. They have a busy schedule. I am not great on computers, I just typed in Methodist President and Vice-President blogs and up they popped.

I have followed them around the Channel Islands, Bristol and the President’s ecumenical meeting in Rome. It is like joining them in their experiences, and peoples names pop up who you might know.

Just a thought.

Ron Clarke

Jack and the Beanstalk Afternoon Tea

15^th October 2016

The closing date for bookings was fast approaching and it looked like the event was going to be cancelled, due to a lack of support, but in true human style, the bookings flooded in after the closing date and we reached 69 bookings so we are all set to go ahead.

The day arrived and we were up early to make the sandwiches. Down to the hall at 12, it was time to put up the tables and bunting and make the room look inviting. We worked hard and were ready for everyone when they arrived at 1500hrs (although some arrived at 1415hrs but they had to wait in the hub)!!

The atmosphere in the room was amazing – friends and family got together to raise some money and to enjoy some very special home made food, finger sandwiches, home made cakes and scones and clotted cream and jam. The raffle was popular and that, together with the remaining cakes being available in Coffee Corner, helped us to raise £565.00 for Church funds.

My thanks go to Mandy Yarnall, Janice Pettit, Pam Hayward, Maureen Duncan, Janet Cushing, Pat Walls (Mandy’s mum), Clare Felgate, Mike Hayward and Roger Pettit, who all helped with cooking or arrangements on the day – sorry if I missed anyone.

The highlight of the day was when Pat Ovenden told me that it was so nice to be able to sit down and talk and eat for a change without having to be involved in the arrangements – that and the money raised made it more than worthwhile.

Kathryn Cooper

Christian Books

There is a wide range of books in Room 3 which may be of interest to Church members. They are stored in a large bookcase behind the door. I would encourage people to have a look and have attached a small notebook to the bookcase to allow people to borrow books and sign them in and out.

Let’s make use of these books!

AND GOD MADE.. …BANANAS

God made apple, tomato and plum

But the roundness was making Him glum.

So right then and there

He created the pear

(Just not quite as round as were some.)

He tasted the pear, said “Hello!

It’s sweet and it’s juicy and mellow,

But it seems to me

That I’d rather see

A fruit that is long, curved and yellow!”

“A fruit that is slightly less staid!”

So with pencil and crayon He played

Then! a swoosh and a dash

A puff and a flash

The world’s first banana was made!

He’s made fruit of rich colour and hue

Which taste yummyliciously, too!

And thanks to His grace

The world’s a fun place

I’m glad, gentle reader, aren’t you?

Nigel Beeton

OCTOBER 2016 NEWSLETTER

Dear Friends

Last month, Leo and I went to see The Mandela Trilogy, a performance in word, song and music, remembering the life of Nelson Mandela. It was held at the South Bank Centre and was a very moving performance as it recalled his childhood, his stand against apartheid, the years of imprisonment and then the triumph of his release.

October is Black History month. The idea of having a month to celebrate black culture and lifestyle came into being in the UK in 1987, so next year will mark 30 years. It was created as a yearly observance to remember those important people who made a contribution to black history in some way. Various celebrations are being held locally, singing, dancing, poetry, as well as the opportunity to try foods from other parts of the world. Please ask if you would like to know more.

It is good that as a church, we welcome people from all walks of life. Different nationalities bring a variety of music, food and drink, clothing and styles of worship with them and we are blessed to be part of a national and international church that welcomes diversity.

The Methodist Church is comprised of women and men, old and young, black and white, hetero and homosexual. We have much to learn from one another, a lot to give, and even more to share. I am proud to be part of a church that is broad thinking, and that encourages us to work together regardless of where we have come from.

Make the most of this month, and enjoy what you share and learn.

Hilary

I must apologise if there are any items missing from the Newsletter this month.

Unfortunately my email has been out of action for about 6 days so I may not have received some items.

I can only apologise and hope the issue is resolved soon. I have been assured that the engineers are working on it!

Dorothy

UPDATE – my new email address is dorothy.b.clarke1@gmail.com

WEAR OUT

Three little boys were bragging how tough they were.

“I’m so tough”, said the first boy, “that I can wear out a pair of shoes in a week”.

“Well”, said the second little boy , “I’m so tough, I can wear out a pair of jeans in a day”.

“That’s nothing”, said the third boy. “When my parents take me to see my grandma and grandpa, I can wear them out in just one hour”.

A time to remember….

Shops are stocked with witches costumes, masks and pumpkins ready for the Halloween season and many of us have left small packets of sweets ready by the door for the gaggle of small children’s demanding ‘trick or treat’. Some homes will display a pumpkin .Jack o’ lantern. In 19^th Century Ireland turnips were hollowed out, a crude horrific mask carved into the skin and a candle was pushed into the base. These glowing lights were placed on doorsteps or in windows to frighten away the spirits of the dead who were believed to roam the earth on All Hallows’ Eve. Today pumpkins have become the vegetable of choice and putting them on the doorstep shows participation in the modern Halloween.

Some churches actively discourage involvement by children in Halloween activities which they say have an occult origin and object to the use of the word Halloween in this context. They remind us that it means holy, coming from the same root as hallowed, holy, the word we say in The Lord’s Prayer. Others consider dressing up and bobbing for apples to be harmless fun.

The first two days of November are celebrated as a time of remembrance, All Saints Day (November 1st) and All Souls Day (November 2nd. All Hallows’ Eve (Halloween) on October 31^stushers in this time of remembrance. All Saints Day is when Roman Catholics and Anglicans celebrate the lives of saints and martyrs who died for their faith or who lived a worthy Christian life of service or piety. Methodists in line with mainstream Protestants recognise the lives and examples of such people, but do not venerate them or ask them to intercede on their behalf. In September the Roman Catholic Church proclaimed Mother Teresa as a saint for her devotion to the poor and sick of Calcutta. Methodism considers all followers of Jesus Christ to be saints. This difference can be seen in the choice words used in the different Bible translations, where the King James Version uses the word ‘saint’ the Good News Bible refers to God’s holy people or Gods people. Paul in the opening of his letter greets the church at Colosse

To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse

(KJV I Col v 1)

To God’s people in Colossae, who are our faithful brothers

in union with Christ (GNB)

The compilers of Singing the faith have included the hymn For all the saints written by William Walsham Howe which was first published in 1864. Howe was a Oxford educated cleric who was active as a parish priest in Shropshire for over 30 years where he wrote Biblical commentaries, hymns, sermons and articles to support church goers. In 1879 he was appointed suffrage bishop of Bedford whose province then was the East End of London where worked with families and children. He ended his career as Bishop of Wakefield and died in 1864 while on holiday in Ireland. For all the saints, published in 1864 , is his best known hymn is usually sung to a rousing tune by Ralph Vaughan Williams. I surprised myself by being able to sing several verses from memory as it was a populace choice for school assembly thanks to this splendid tune.

For all the saints who from their labours rest

Who thee by faith before the world confessed

Thy name, O Jesus be forever blest.

Alleluia Alleluia.

All saints Day rolls over into All Souls Day, November 2^nd when people remember family members who have died and in many continental countries relatives often meet to take flowers and plants, usually chrysanthemums, to place on family graves. So these days present us with the opportunity to give thanks for those who have been a good influence on our lives; parents, other family members, teachers, friends and church members

I cannot leave this topic without referring to a boisterous tune taken from an old gospel hymn which I am sure you know. It unites all those who have tried to live a Christian life. So grab your trumpet and join Louis Armstrong and me in singing….

When the saints go marching in,

when the saints go marching in

I want to be in that number

when the saints go marching in

Allen Steel Oct 2016

A whistle-stop tour of Mary-Rose French’s life

You may have a sense of “déjà vu” when you read this, coming so soon after Shirley’s article, because a good number of my memories are similar to those of Shirley. Like Shirley’s parents (her Mother was my Mother’s sister), my Father came to live in East View in 1935. When my Mother first met him in 1943, she was living with her sister and family in the house opposite and it would seem it was love at first sight because they married within three months of meeting and she moved across the street to live with my Father, who also had his Mother living with him. I came along a year later. East View at the end of the war was a quiet cul-de-sac, with no cars (a far cry from how it is today with cars permanently parked in the turning circle at the top) and I can truly say I had an idyllic childhood – parents who loved me and whom I loved, my cousins Shirley, Janet and later Pamela, and their parents Elsie and Bob, opposite and my lifelong friend Janet, two days younger than me and, like me an only child, three houses down. There were lots of other children living in the road so there was always someone to play with.

My early experiences at Winchester Road

I went initially to Sunday School at St. Anne’s but since, by then, Shirley and Janet were going to the Sunday School at Winchester Road, I soon joined them, working my way through the various Departments and being taught by such lovely ladies as Kath Barnes, Minnie Claus, Mary Crewdson and Peggy Stewart. In my late teens I graduated to teaching in Sunday School myself, alongside John Dixon and others. I remember that I was very nervous at first and preferred to stand behind a table as I taught so that no-one could see my knees shaking! I don’t remember studying for scripture exams, although I probably did, but do remember the Wednesday evening training sessions, at which we also had the opportunity to buy towels and table linen from Viv Pritchard and Pam Kistruck, who used to have a stall at the annual Bazaar but brought a selection down to Church every Wednesday evening.

By the time I joined the Youth Club, run by Dave Poste and Cecil Holgate, the Rock and Roll era was in full swing and we enjoyed jiving to the music. Two years running we went as a group to a youth centre in Brittany, which was great fun. One of the young men working there had a school friend who was due to come to London to work as an au pair and asked if he could give her my telephone number as she wouldn’t know anyone else … I did, we got to know each other and, after over 50 years, we are still good friends (my flat in France is about 12 miles away from where she now lives). My cousin Janet and I also liked to go to the dances at Walthamstow Assembly Hall on Saturday evenings, occasionally having to walk home because the last bus was so full we couldn’t get on, and I still like to jive, nowadays to traditional jazz rather than rock and roll.

Schooling

I attended Selwyn Infants and then Selwyn Junior School and several of my school friends also attended Sunday School at Winchester Road which, as Shirley wrote, had lots of children attending. After I passed the 11-plus, I joined my cousin Janet at Walthamstow High School where I enjoyed all the subjects I studied but particularly liked foreign languages, and turned out to be good at them. I still enjoy them. Inter alia I’ve studied French, German, Spanish, Russian, Italian and Czech and, very briefly, Gaelic. While I’m now very fluent in French and German, and less so in Spanish, I remember little of the others, although my few words of Czech did come in useful when Janice led a group of Guides and Guiders, including me, to the Czech Republic and later to Slovakia (Slovakian is said to be about 80% similar to Czech, which Janice and I studied at evening class for a year).

Uniformed Organisations

I joined the 2^nd Highams Park Brownies based at Winchester Road along with friends from both school and Sunday School. May Wade, who led two units – one on Tuesday evening and the other on Thursday evening – was the Brown Owl. In those days we didn’t go on Pack Holiday and even when I joined Guides, at Winchester, the Guiders didn’t have a camp licence so we had to go camping with another unit. Shirley and “Johnnie” were the Guiders at the time.

After I left Guides I didn’t have much contact with the Uniformed Organisations for some time until I became an Assistant Guider, assisting Margaret Ruddock and Pat Surry, with the 2^nd Highams Park Guides. Later I assisted with the 4^th Highams Park Guides and then returned to Winchester to assist Janice. I have spent many happy times up at the Guide Camp Site at Chigwell, and on various trips abroad, mostly assisting Janice as First Aider but also as QM. As First Aider I was responsible, inter alia, for getting the fire going – I might have reeked to high heaven from the smoke but at least I hardly ever got bitten by insects. My knowledge of German came in very handy particularly in the Lech Valley in Austria when the first time I went, Janice and I had to take one of the Guides to the hospital in Reutte where the nurse apologised for keeping us waiting 5 minutes (during the ski season we might have had to wait longer, of course). Needless to say, we were pretty impressed. Four years later, it was a Guider who needed to go to hospital; once again Janice and I went off to Reutte – only to find the same doctor on duty in A&E that we’d met 4 years earlier. It’s very unlikely that that would have happened, say, at Whipps Cross! Fortunately no-one needed medical treatment during our visits to the Czech Republic or Slovakia although my German did come in useful in Switzerland last year when one of the Guides fell off a toboggan at the top of the Jungfrau and appeared to have an injury to her pelvis. We ended up being air-lifted by helicopter from the top of the mountain to the hospital in Interlaken, my first – and hopefully my last – ride in a helicopter. The Guide in question turned to have very painful but fortunately not too serious soft-tissue injuries, which was a relief to all of us.

Further Education/Employment

While at the High School I decided I’d like to study nursing. However, my parents, aware that I was good at languages, encouraged me to do a two-year language course at the Polytechnic, Regent Street, which included shorthand and typing. I wasn’t very keen on the former but ended up being grateful I’d done it because it made taking notes so much easier; I am certainly grateful that I learned to touch-type (and even more grateful when I progressed to a word processor and then a computer so that I could amend what I’d typed without retyping the whole document). After I left the Polytechnic I went to work for a telecommunications company in their Translation Department and from there spent a year with their associate company in Stuttgart where I made several good friends and where I first learned to ski (I’m still trying to improve my skiing).

Back in London again, I went to work as a Director’s Secretary for a merchant bank in London for a while before finally starting a nursing course. Unfortunately my Father became ill and I decided to give up the course so that I could spend more time with him and when he died, I didn’t wish to leave my Mother. I had made good friends at the merchant bank so was very pleased to be welcomed me back with open arms. At the time we had a small representative office in Paris and every year I would spend a few weeks there when the secretary was on holiday; it was fun but I was less keen on the smoke from the cigars that the representative smoked all day! For the last 15 years of my working life at the bank I worked as a Personnel Officer, which was very interesting but also very hectic – I regularly worked a 12 hour day and didn’t have time to become as involved in Church life as I am now, although I did come to Church on Sundays and was a Church Steward for 6 years. Following a complete restructuring of the bank I elected to take early retirement in order to do a degree in osteopathy and naturopathy in which I’d been interested for a long time. In fact the interest in naturopathy dated back to my childhood because my Father was very interested in it, though at the time I didn’t realise how ahead of his time he was. I had to do an access course first as I didn’t have science ‘A’ levels but found I hadn’t lost my ‘O’ level knowledge of biology and chemistry so it wasn’t too difficult. The course was as interesting as I had thought it would be but during my first year at the college my Mother became ill and I decided to put the course on hold so that I could care for her until she could have the major heart surgery she needed. Unfortunately she didn’t come round from the operation and I decided, reluctantly, not to return to the college because I had realised that my back problems might be aggravated by the physical side of the course, ie the manipulation. However, I felt I’d learnt a lot about my musculo-skeletal system, and the workings of the human body in general, which have stood me in good stead for the various first aid courses I’ve attended over the years.

Following a health scare in 2004, I decided that I really would start – and finish – a degree course and in 2005 was lucky enough to be accepted to do a degree in German at Kings College, London (the Strand Campus). By that time I was a very mature student – older than all the lecturers, bar one, and all the students – but found I was still able to absorb the subject matter and graduated with a 2:1 in 2009.

Homes

I have lived in Chingford all my life, apart from the time I lived in Germany, and have lived in my present flat opposite Epping Forest for the past 36 years. Some 11 years ago the opportunity arose for me to buy a flat in a small market town in Provence, which is where I disappear to as often as I can. It really is my bolt-hole and I hope I can continue to spend time there for many years to come. Do please come and visit me if ever you are in that area, the Alpes de Haute Provence.

Voluntary Work

Like most retired people of my acquaintance, I really do not know how I ever had time to work, particularly as for the last 20 years or so I have been heavily involved in Care Highams Park, initially as a volunteer, then Duty Helper, cook for Care lunch, Trustee, etc. For the last 10 years or so I have organised Christmas Inn, the annual event held on Christmas Day for anyone in Waltham Forest who would otherwise be on their own. By the end of Christmas Day all of us who are involved, including Janice and Pat who do the cooking on alternate years, are exhausted but feel it has all been worth while when we see the smiles on the faces of our guests.

Involvement in the life of Winchester

As you know, Mary Burgoine and I are currently joint Senior Stewards and will have been Stewards for 6 years by the time we stand down next April, although we are happy to continue to help out after that. This is the third time Mary has served as a Steward, for me it is the second time, and I am sure I speak for both of us when I say how honoured we feel to have been asked to fill such an important role in Church life. I have enjoyed, and continue to enjoy, all that I am involved with at Winchester – the Badminton Club, Holiday Club, helping with fund-raising events, the Bazaar, the list seems endless – and hopefully I will be able to contribute to Church life for many years to come. Throughout my time at Winchester, I have much appreciated the support I have received and the fellowship I have had here – it’s like having an extended family and I thank you all.

Mary-Rose French

Last term, 5th Highams Park Brownies did a sponsored walk in the rain carrying water up and down Wickham road in aid of Water Aid and raised £382.

This was part of a waste water challenge badge. Well done Brownies!

Susan Knights

Winchester Road Christmas Bazaar

Saturday 26^th November 2016

Yes it’s that time of year again and we are starting our countdown to the Christmas Bazaar on the 26^th November. As always, I have a list of the items that we are starting to collect.

Physical items are of course important so that we can fill up our stalls – but so are additional people to help with the preparation of the building, and the clearing away after the event. I have included this in the table below.

Bric-a-brac	Please bring items to the church or contact Sarah Hayward on 020 8527 7778 for collection.
Second Hand Toys	Please bring items to the church or contact Sarah Hayward on 020 8527 7778 for collection.
DVDs, CDs, Computer games	Please bring these to church
Desserts & Cakes	Please see Pat Ovenden and Sarah Hayward with details of anything you are prepared to make or donate for the refreshments or cake stalls.
New and Nearly New Items	We will be running a ‘Christmas Gifts’ stall again this year. Please bring any items to the church.
Jewellery	Please give any second hand jewellery to Alex Fletcher or Sarah – the sooner the better please as it takes a while to prepare.
Books	If you have books to donate then Joan would appreciate these coming down to the church in the weeks ahead of the bazaar (ideally by the end of October) so she has time to sort them.
6^th November at 1pm	Please see Sarah if you are able to help with the sorting of the items that have been donated and are stored in various places around the building. The decorations are also going up on this day.
26^th November at 3.30pm	Help to take down tables, move items upstairs and generally clear up for approximately 2 hours.

Bazaar Meeting:

Finally – there will be a bazaar meeting on Monday 10^th October at the church at 8pm. This is not just for stallholders – everyone is welcome to attend.

Sarah Hayward

020 8527 7778

sarahhayward78@hotmail.co.uk

NIGERIA HEALTH CARE PROJECT’S 2016

Christmas cards are now available from

Mary Burgoine. Price £3.00 for a packet

of 10 cards. She also has a few packets of

previous years at £2.00 per pack.

PRAYER OF TRUST IN GOD’S WORD

Father,

Thank you for your written word to us in the Bible, inspired and interpreted by your Holy Spirit.

Thank you that from the beginning to end it reveals Jesus, the living Word, sent by you to rescue us from the mess of selfishness and disobedience.

May we treasure your revelation to us and allow you to guide us by it through the confusion and pain of this word, confident that your Word is unchanging and powerful and trustworthy.

In Jesus name

Amen

Daphne Kitching

CONGRATULATIONS TO Maureen and Graham Duncan who celebrated their Pearl Wedding Anniversary on the 18th September.

The next 18-40’s EVENING will be held at the Manse on Sunday 15th October. Please bring a DVD or DVD clip with you that you would like to share.

Please let Hilary know if you are coming. Light refreshments will be available.

We are looking for new Stewards to join our current team, and who would be available to start in April.

If you are interested or would like to know more, please speak to one of the current Stewards.

DOWN MEMORY LANE

For many years Dorothy and I have been going to the Art Class held at the Bowls Club in The Memorial Park, Chingford and she has been giving me the Winchester News every month. I’ve enjoyed reading all of your Church activities and the many stories about how supportive your Church community is. It is so refreshing to see the Christian spirit in action. All your news has been of special interest to me, although I am no longer a church goer, I was fortunate to have been brought up in the Methodist tradition.

I was born in Oxford in 1931 and I remember clearly attending Sunday School until 1945. Without wishing to boast I can also remember receiving a prize for good attendance! After leaving school I was in the Merchant Navy for 12 years and later trained for a career in social work. The values I learned from my family and from the church have been invaluable throughout my life and I know how lucky I have been.

My mother was born in Portland, Dorset in 1903. Her father was a quarryman and also a Lay Preacher at the local Wesleyan Chapel. She had two sisters and a brother and their parents were devout Methodists. Mum has described how strictly their religion was observed. Sunday particularly so. All the family attended Chapel in the morning and evening and the children afternoon Sunday School. It was a difficult 20 minute walk each way in all weathers, sometimes very bad. Portland had a thriving Methodist population. It was also a close knit community with very little contact with mainland Dorset in those days. Mum remembered a charabanc outing to Weymouth once a year but that was all.

She had a large Methodist hymnbook dated about 1900 with all the music included. She often played these and was still enjoying playing and singing the words to me in her 80’s when she bought an electric keyboard. Most of the old hymns are rarely heard today though they are often inspirational. Here are some of my favourites all of them written in the 19th century.

The first one is by Phillip Bliss (born 1838) urging us to “Hold the gospel banner high” and

Dare to be a Daniel,

Dare to stand alone!

Dare to have a purpose firm!

Dare to make it known”

On the same theme is

“Dare to do right! Dare to be true!

God who created you, cares for you too;

Treasures the tears that his striving ones shed,

Counts and protects every hair of your head”

Another hymn by Phillip Bliss is “Hold the Fort!” which pictures a mighty force of

wicked men led by Satan attacking our faith. Although “the battle rages fierce and long” we sing:

“Hold the fort for I am coming!

Jesus signals still,

Wave the answer back to heaven

By thy grace we will”

Then there is Frances Crosby (born 1820) appealing to us,

“Rescue the perishing and snatch them in pity

from sin and the grave”.

Frances Clephane (born 1830) wrote a hymn about 99 sheep in the shelter of the fold, unfortunately one had wandered off on to the mountain wild. The wonderful Shepherd than makes resolute and unflinching efforts to find the lost sheep; he has to journey through storms, deep waters and vast mountain gorges before finally finding the sick and helpless sheep. The Shepherd brings him home and

There arose a cry to the gate of heaven, which the angels echoed around the throne,

Rejoice for the Lord brings back his own”.

On a less dramatic note there are many hymns about the joy of following Jesus. Another Frances Crosby hymn is about blessed assurance.

“Blessed assurance—Jesus is mine

O what a foretaste of glory divine”.

And in the chorus:

“ “This is my story, this is my song,

Praising my Saviour all the day long”.

There is another Phillip Bliss hymn.

“I am so glad that our Father in heaven,

Tells of his love in the book he has given;

Wonderful things in the Bible I see:

This is the dearest that Jesus loves me”.

And in the last line there is the rather modest thought that “Jesus loves even me”.

There is a lovely tune that goes with the hymn by Arthur Ainger (born 1841) which clearly tells of the future in which:

God is working his purpose out, and the time is drawing near;

Nearer and nearer draws the time, the time that shall surely be,

When the earth shall be filled with the glory of God,

as the waters cover the sea”

Some of the hymns which were great favourites were “Tell me the old, old story of Jesus and his love”

At harvest time

“Bringing in the sheaves…

We shall come rejoicing

Bringing in the sheaves”

And then

“Trust and obey,

For there’s no other way,

To be happy in Jesus,

But to trust and obey”

Throughout all these 19th century hymns there are some delightful tunes giving more feeling to the message of the hymns.

Finally, just one more. A message of optimism and reassurance called “Glory for me” by Charles Gabriel (born 1856). Describing the moment when we arrive in heaven after all our labours and trials are over and we look on the face of our dear Lord, we all sing with great joy

“Friends will be there I have loved long ago,

Joy like a river around me will flow;

Yet just a smile from my Saviour, I know.

Will through the ages be glory for me”

Undeniably the happy ending!

Michael Learner

The Circuit welcomed Dr John and Mrs Sharon Harbottle, Mission Partners in Haiti, to speak at the Circuit Mission event on the 2nd July.

At the end of the event, they presented the Circuit with a pewter cross from Haiti. It was decided that should host it for one month and during the time focus on God’s mission in Haiti.

Our month was August, as this is a holiday month we thought it would be an idea to show what the cross looked like, attached to a yellow ribbon.

Now it has been passed on to Woodford Church.

Mary Burgoine

WINNIE THE POOH—A MUCH LOVED BEAR

Winnie the Pooh was born 90 years ago this month, on 14th October, 1926—in the sense that was the date on which the world-famous children’s book by A A Milne was first published.

Technically, Winnie the Pooh, also called Pooh Bear, is a fictional anthromorphic teddy bear hero of a number of book, always illustrated by E H Shepard, who therefore gave Pooh his distinctive shape in the mind of the reader.

To his many admirers, Pooh is the wise, kind, loving companion they always wanted—a bear of very little brain and with many faults, but whose heart is always in the right place.

The Pooh stories, written originally for the author’s only son, Christopher Robin, and set in an area recognisable as Ashdown Forest in Sussex, have been translated into many languages, including a Latin version, Winnie ille pu.

Though naïve and somewhat literal minded, honey-loving Pooh composes songs and hums and comes up with unexpected solutions to problems. He also invented the game Poohsticks. He has been recommended to Christians for his love towards his friends, such as Piglet, Tigger, Kanga and Rabbit—all modelled on Christopher Robin’s soft toys.

Examples of Pooh’s wisdom are widely quoted. His refusal to let Piglet worry him can be seen as deeply Christian.

“Supposing a tree fell down, Pooh, while we were underneath it?”

“Supposing it didn’t,” said Pooh after careful thought.

A WC WORTH VISITING

Years ago a young couple were house-hunting in rural Somerset, and so visited an elderly clergyman who had a cottage for sale. Later they could not remember seeing a bathroom in the property and so wrote asking where the WC might be.

The minister was not familiar with the term and decided they must be asking for the nearest Wesleyan Church. And so he wrote them this reply:

Dear….

I regret to inform you that the nearest WC is fifty miles away, which is most unfortunate if you are in the habit of going regularly. This one is situated in a beautiful valley, and many local people make a day of it, setting off early in the morning and taking picnics with them. Some travel by car, others by bus, and some (on foot) arrive just in time. A bell rings 20 minutes before the WC opens, and there is standing room only if you are late.

Inside are 40 plush seats, and beautiful carvings on the walls. The children sing as they process in, and there is even an organ accompaniment. I hope this will encourage you to visit it, and enjoy what it offers. I myself have not been for five months, and as you can imagine this pains me very much.

Yours faithfully,

from the Parish Pump Website for Magazine Editors

SEPTEMBER 2016 NEWSLETTER

Our Minister’s letter

This month marks the anniversary of the Great Fire of London in 1666. We are all familiar with the Monument which stands in Pudding Lane, where it is believed the fire started on 2^nd September 1666. The fire devastated the City of London inside the old Roman walls. It raged over four days and there was fear that it would engulf Westminster and Charles II ‘s Palace in Whitehall but fortunately, it was brought under control in time. 13,200 houses were destroyed in the fire along with 87 Parish Churches, St Paul’s Cathedral and many city buildings. The death toll is unknown as only 6 deaths were recorded.

The fire began in the bakery belonging to Thomas Farriner shortly after midnight. Following a long hot summer, everywhere was very dry and the fire spread rapidly, assisted by strong east winds. The local community helped to stop the spread of the fire by passing leather buckets of water to where they were required. As most of the buildings were made of wood they soon perished in the scorching inferno.

But all was not lost. The city was rebuilt using more advanced building materials, and St Paul’s Cathedral was constructed and still stands to this day, as a place of worship as well as a tourist attraction for many visitors.

There is a saying, that ’Every cloud has a silver lining’. Whilst it must have been devastating for 70,000 people to be made homeless as a result of the fire, new sturdier homes were constructed and something good came from this remarkable event.

When things don’t work out as we hoped or intended, another opening may appear that we had not previously seen. Goodness and a positive outcome can often be forthcoming following a difficult situation. I am sure that God spends a lot of time working on our struggles, turning them into opportunities, and showing us the right direction to take particularly when we had not thought of taking that path before.

As we embark on a new church and academic year, remember those who are starting something new, children going to school for the first time, pupils who are changing schools, those of our number going off to university or starting an apprenticeship. Some people may be starting a new post at work and others will be retiring. There will be decisions that need to be made this year within the life of our churches and a close working relationship will be required to realise what God has in store for us, as we share the love of God in the communities where we live. So let us welcome the year ahead and ask for God’s guidance as we live for today and plan for tomorrow.

Yours in Christ,

Hilary

Tenth Holiday Club

Monday 25^th July saw the start of our 10^th Holiday Club. The theme was ‘Counting on God’ and included lots of numbers!

Initially bookings were slow as we had clashed with a drama week, but in the end we had 37, keen children aged 5 – 11, arrive ready to join in the week’s activities. We were lucky this year to have, not only a record number of adult volunteers, but also 7 teenagers, all of whom had attended Holiday Club in the past.

On Monday the story was ‘Feeding 5,000’ and all the children enjoyed making bread rolls and fondant fish as well as long strings of paper fish and rolls. By the end of the morning we were impressed with the fact that the children were already beginning to learn the songs.

On Tuesday the story was about the 10 bridesmaids, 5 of whom were ready and 5 who ran out of oil. More fondant helped the creation of impressive, edible lamps and the children were able to add a red or black jelly to represent the oil. The children also decorated small glass candle holders.

On Wednesday the story was ‘Picnic on the beach’ when the disciples, with the help of Jesus were able to catch 153 fish. The weather turned and we were unsure whether we would go for our picnic, but the children made a lot of sandwiches and cakes, and some paper fish kites, whilst hoping the sun would arrive. In the end the decision was made to stay at the church and eat our picnic. We managed to provide a range of activities, including badminton, table tennis and giant Jenga, and everyone seemed to have a good time. We finished the afternoon with a sock fight and some parachute games. Annoyingly, the sun came out during the afternoon, but too late for us!

Thursday, and the story was of the woman searching for her silver lost silver coin. The teams competed in a relay race to bury a coin in soil. Not quite the ‘gunge’ at previous Holiday Clubs but good fun and a bit messy!! During the rest of the morning the children made coin biscuits, hunted for coins and decorated some ‘keepsake’ boxes.

On the last day we thought about using our talents. Janice and helpers encouraged the children to use their cookery skills to bake an impressive selection of cakes which were sold to raise over £85 for UNICEF, a charity supported by Sophie, one of our young leaders.

At our final session we were joined by family and friends. The children all received certificates and performed the songs they had learnt. We were presented with a card from the children and parents containing messages from the children and a very generous donation for our Church Building Fund. Many thanks to everyone. Some of the messages are included and the rest can be seen in the church.

The Sunday Service gave everyone a chance to share some of the activities of the week with the congregation and we were delighted that so many of the children and their families were able to join us for the service.

Shirley Seamon has provided inspirational craft for the last ten years. She has decided that this, the tenth holiday club, will be her last.
We are very grateful for all she has done by organising badges and folders as well as the craft. Shirley’s grandchildren, Samuel and Gabby, have also been at all ten clubs, as participants and then as helpers.

Jan Dent

CONGRATULATIONS to Jessica Moseley in passing her ‘A’-level exams in Biology, Chemistry and Sociology, and in securing her place at University.

Jessica will be studying Biological Sciences at Warwick University from the beginning of October this year.

From very proud parents, Annmarie and Nick.

Harvest Home

I wonder if you like me are fans of the BBC’s Countryfile programme which each week reminds us that all Britain is not an urban sprawl but is still a green and pleasant land. Maybe you grow some fruit and vegetables in your garden, or even have an allotment, and so you are now gathering in your harvest. I think you will agree that runner beans or tomatoes from the garden taste better than those that have spent days in the food chain between field and shop.

In the days of ‘Methodism Past ’we held a Harvest Festival where members of the congregation brought flowers and produce from their gardens, supplemented with imported tropical produce, to decorate the church on Harvest Sunday., remembering to include a loaf, a glass of water and a lump of coal. Now our harvest comes tinned and packaged from the supermarket. On the Saturday evening I recall a Harvest Supper, sometimes ham salad or perhaps a cottage pie followed by an entertainment of music and songs.

One tradition that survived from earlier days was a specially baked harvest loaf usually in the shape of a bundle of wheat (BBC Bake Off please note). Farmers milled flour from their first harvest which was used to bake this special loaf, called the ’Lammas Loaf’ which they presented to their parish church on August 1st which is Lammas Day. (Lammas is an Anglo Saxon word meaning loaf –mass). At his service communion was celebrated using a loaf also made using flour from this first cut of local wheat.

It is generally agreed that the first modern style Harvest Festival was held in 1843 at the church of the small coastal parish of Morwenstow, north of Bude in Cornwall. It was introduced by the vicar, Rev Robert Stephen Hawker (pictured left), who was both a priest and poet who served the parish for around 40 years.

When he arrived there the area was notorious for smuggling and many men perished in the sea pursuing their trade. Hawker took pity on them, arranging for the burial and funeral of those whose bodies washed up on the shore. He also buried sailors whose ships were wrecked in gales along this attractive but treacherous part of the north Cornish coast. He made reference to these ‘lost souls’ in one of his poems.

He sleeps in yonder nameless ground,
A cross hath marked the stone;
Pray ye, his soul in death hath found
The peace in life unknown.

Hawker was regarded as eccentric for dressing in bright colours at a time when men wore only sober colours, he usually dressed in a claret-coloured coat, blue fisherman’s jersey, long sea-boots, a pink brimless hat and a poncho made from a yellow horse blanket. On the top of the nearby cliff, now called vicarage cliff, he built a hut with a turf roof from driftwood left along the shoreline by the sea. Here he spent many hours writing poetry and letters. The hut, which still has some of the original timber, is claimed to be smallest property maintained by the National Trust.

During his lifetime he published two volumes of his poetry but they were not a commercial success. Sadly financial worries arising from a vicarage fire, decaying church, his generosity to the poor of his parish and the need to support his wife and their three daughters led to a decline in his health. He died in 1875 at the age of 71.

Hawker’s idea of a Harvest Festival spread quickly and ensured the popularity of such hymns as We plough the fields and scatter, All things bright and beautiful and Come you thankful people, come. All may be found in Singing the Faith.

Allen Steel (Sept. 2016)

MEDITATION ON A SAFETY PIN

The barb of racism is sharp. It pierces, stabs and pricks at our conscience. No person is of a single bloodline, for nations, our nation, has been mixed for years. Invasions of Danes and Vikings, Normans and Romans set the pattern and now we stand in solidarity of the pain of racist abuse by wearing a simple safety pin.

Look at the pin. The sharp point digs deep, as do racist comments. But the head of the pin is shaped like a shepherd’s crook and encloses the sharp point, shielding it within itself. So too the Church of the Good Shepherd is called to absorb the pain and close around it protecting others from further harm.

An open safety pin is of little use. It is only when closed that it can function properly holding things together, making them secure, patching, anchoring and drawing them together. A closed pin can be joined to another. A closed pin can support the weight of other burdens hanging on it.

Safety pins come in all sizes from nappy pins to very small. Colours vary, not only the brass or steel but heads are silver, red, blue, green etc. They can be worn in any direction-celebrating diversity yet united in its message.

The circle at the tail reminds that we are all one, united in God.

This meditation was written by Hilary’s sister Sharon Harbottle who is a Local Preacher and Mission Partner in Haiti.

SECURITY

In the light of the recent attacks in France and Germany we are advised by the Police not to be alarmed but to ensure that we are alert and vigilant. As far as our premises are concerned, please make sure that all outer doors are locked once people are inside and do not leave doors and windows open when there is no one nearby to keep an eye on them. Please ensure that all doors and windows are closed when the last person leaves the building. If you are at all concerned, please ring 999.

We are sorry to report that Gladys Medhurst died in her sleep at the grand old age of 97. After living in Wickham Road for more than 40 years she moved to West Wales to live with her son Neil in 1991 until his untimely death, after which she moved to North Wales to live with David and Jean. Some will no doubt remember her industrious efforts with contributions to the Bazaar and her Guild attendance.

CRAFT FAIR – Volunteers needed

Our annual Craft Fair will this year be held on Saturday 1st October and we have a great selection of stalls to tempt you to spend your pennies. However, to make the day a success I am in search of help with the following:

Distributing leaflets in the two weeks before the Fair
Setting up the tables on the Friday evening
Making cakes for the cake stall
Donations for the Church Craft stall
Manning the Church stall at the fair
Helping with refreshments at the fair
Clearing away afterwards

If you can help with any of these,, no matter how short a time you have available do please get in touch either by email deborah_crawford@hotmail.com or mobile 07702165456.

Thank you, Debbie Crawford

At our Sunday morning service on the 17th July the Rev Hilary Cheng made two presentations.

Laura Pease received a certificate of appreciation for her many years as a Local Preacher and Shirley Seaman a certificate of thanks for her long service as Pastoral Secretary

WORLDS’S BIGGEST COFFEE MORNING

WINCHESTER ROAD METHODIST CHURCH

30th September

9.30am— 12.30pm

PLEASE COME AND SUPPORT THIS WONDERFUL CHARITY

YOUNG CHURCH

The story of Mary and Martha: Luke 10: 38-42

The Young Church groups now use ‘Roots’ which links to the lectionary used in Church each week. Having read the story of Mary and Martha, members of the Biscuit Club tried juggling and thought about the roles of both Mary and Martha. They discussed ways of listening and passing on the messages of Jesus. A favourite was to release balloons, an activity we are investigating!

There will be a Pizza and Pud evening at the Manse on Sunday 18th September at 6pm for anyone who is 18-40 years of age. Please let Hilary know if you can come, for catering purposes and if dietary requirements need to be considered. Please bring a Christian book that you have enjoyed reading with you.

Winchester Road Church, Scouts and Guides

Jack and the Beanstalk is a great hit with all the family whether you are 3 or 103 years old and is this year’s GIANT of a Pantomime here at Winchester Road Church

on Friday 28^th and Saturday 29^th October

Tickets are now on sale and it won’t cost you a bag of beans.

Written and Directed by Maureen Duncan—expect singing, dancing , comedy and sparkle thrown in for good measure!!

Ticket Order forms are available in ‘THE HUB’

Friday 28^th OctoberStarts at 7pm Adults £7.00

Children and Senior Citizens £5.00

Saturday 29^th Matinee Starts at 2.30pm Adults £7.00

Children and Senior Citizens £5.00

Saturday 29^th Evening Starts at 7.00pm All tickets £7.00

You can also Telephone Pam 0208 5275435 before 10pm

15 Evanston Avenue, Highams Park, London E4 9JS

Tickets allocated on a first come, first served basis

All Proceeds to the Winchester Road Church Building Fund

HIGHAMS PARK DAY 16/07/2016.

I have been to the Highams Park Day event on a few occasions but this was the first time I had actually taken part in it.

On the morning of the event I joined a group of volunteers under the leadership of Janice Pettit, to help set up and prepare the main stall providing refreshments at the event.

There were Maureen Duncan, Jan Dent, Pat Ovenden, and Debbie Crawford in charge of sandwich making. Hazel Mathews, with the help of a member of the Uniformed Organisations, manning the Hot and Cold Beverages and snacks and Pam Palmer and myself being responsible for the vast array of amazing homemade cakes, for which we had the pleasure of wearing those extremely fashionably hair nets.

Even before the event officially began, there was a keen interest in what Winchester Road Methodist Church Refreshments had to offer, and during the period of the morning there was a constant flow of customers.

It was a gloriously sunny day, the turnout was fantastic and the stall raised a massive £590.00.

I was relieved from my duties at around Lunch time by Lynda Bygraves and her 2 daughters, but all of the other ladies, the real tough cookies, remained on duty until the end of the event.

It was so nice to see such a successful community event, and it was even more pleasing to know I played a small part in it.

Yvonne Gordon

Rachel Lampard MBE – Inauguration as Methodist Vice-President

Family, friends and fans of Rachel attended her inauguration at this year’s Methodist Conference (conveniently for us) held at the magnificent Westminster Central Hall.

We were sitting in seats set aside for Rachel’s guests and were delighted to see Benedict, Martha and Toby smartly dressed and clearly proud of their Mum.

Whilst the entire event was fantastic to experience and lovely to take part in, I would like to highlight a few things that stood out and made this day special:

The well-selected hymns and songs that conveyed a message and got everybody singing

The infectious enthusiasm and rapport between the outgoing President and Vice-President

The formality and ceremony reminding us just how prestigious this event is and how important Rachel’s new role is too

The links back to Wesley with the gifts of a cross and Bible reminding us of the foundations of Methodism

After the initial proceedings were over, it was time for Rachel to come to the fore. Firstly she greeted representatives from every corner of the globe who are a part of the Worldwide Methodist Church as well as inter-faith leaders from across London. After shaking as many (if not more) hands than the Queen would, Rachel greeted the conference with words of harmony and openness in a world that the week had seen a Brexit vote, and for this she was given a round of applause.

Since hearing her talks at Winchester Road about issues surrounding her work with the church and its role with politics, and the issue of same sex marriage, I had known Rachel to be both insightful and informative when speaking. Here, at the Conference, in front of representatives of the entire Methodist Church she delivered another incredible address. Her words touched the crowd, as they do whenever she speaks, shown by the clarity with which I remember those past talks.

Rachel challenged us, by asking, when we look at the poor and those in need of justice, do we see a problem – or do we recognise the face of Jesus? She acknowledged the Methodist desire to get ‘stuck’ in, to help people, but suggested we should try to tackle injustice, not by trying to ‘fix’ people, but by listening and learning from those who are seen as ‘fragile’.

I would recommend you read her whole speech which you can download here:

http://www.methodist.org.uk/news-and-events/news-releases/stop-trying-to-fix-the-poor-says-methodist-vice-president

Here in my opinion, were the key moments:

I can’t stand your religious meetings. I’m fed up with your conferences and conventions. I want nothing to do with your religious projects, your pretentious slogans and goals. I’m sick of your fundraising schemes, your public relations and your image making. I’ve had all I can take of your noisy ego music. When was the last time you sang to me? Do you know what I want?

I want justice – oceans of it

I want fairness – rivers of it.

That’s what I want. That’s all I want.”

These words fell heavily on the ears of ‘The Conference’ of a denomination sometimes called bureaucratic and meeting focused.

Rachel asked what we, as Christians and as the Methodist Church, should be doing about the injustices in our world.

“We sometimes worry about what makes up the Methodist DNA. We joke about our love of committees. But a large part of our DNA is just getting stuck in – thousands of community projects, running food banks, night shelters, and drop-ins for people in need. We support charities with Methodist roots, such as Action for Children and All We Can. Each of us also responds to the need we see around us with and through people and organisations of all faiths and none. But Methodists do things, we get stuck in. We see things are not right, and we act because we are responding to people who are created in God’s image.

I have been a Methodist all my life, been a member for nearly 30 years, and have been privileged to have worked for the Methodist Church for over 15 years. In my work I’ve been challenged to focus on what it means for God’s people, gathered together in the Methodist Church, to do justice, specifically in the context of politics. I know the Church is committed to justice. But today I’d like to offer a challenge: how we embody God’s command to do justice?

I wonder if we as Church sometimes struggle with the urge to fix people, to sort them out, rather than be a church of the poor? And how much does this relate to our desire to be the host of every party? Hospitality is a good thing. We can give freely, we can share what God has given to us, often sacrificially, to others who have need of it. But being the host also puts us in a place of control. Our house, our rules. My bat, my ball. Do we really know and understand what it costs sometimes for people to step over the threshold, accept our hospitality, our agenda? What would it mean for us to become guests instead? To receive rather than to be in a position of power, where we assume we only need to give? What does doing justice look like when we put ourselves into the hands of others?

It is through getting to know people, listening to them, offering practical help and support that the justice questions can most helpfully emerge. When we move past the “what fault can I fix in you” question to the deeper “why” questions:

Why are people sleeping on our church steps homeless? Why are people attending our lunch club so deeply in debt?

Why can’t mums afford to buy school uniform for children, even though they are working?

Why are so many people lonely?

Why do some people feel they have no stake in the economy or political system?

A commitment to justice and holiness changes us and will change the Church, if we have the courage. The courage to be a guest at the party instead of the host. The courage first to listen instead of speak; to first ask why instead of rushing to offer solutions. But then together to speak and act boldly. The courage together to join in the mission of God that he invites us to share. And we do it all in the knowledge that, by God’s grace, anything can be possible.

Do you know what I want?

I want justice – oceans of it

I want fairness – rivers of it.

That’s what I want. That’s all I want.” Rachel Lampard MBE, July 2016

Rachel, with her address, inspired and challenged all of us at the Conference to think about and then act on injustice and bring about those oceans she wants. Now the challenge is for us as an individual and as a collective Church to take this message and fight for justice locally and beyond. So how will Winchester Road respond? What can we do to create those oceans of justice and rivers of fairness that Rachel reminded us we crave?

Adèle Bird

Thank you

I wanted to say thank you to friends at Winchester Road for all your support around my induction as Vice-President of the Methodist Conference.

I am really grateful for the generous gift of books which will be a resource and inspiration this year and beyond. It was lovely to see so many friends at the Methodist Conference, and I continue to be thankful for your prayers for me, Steve and the children.

With love

Rachel

RON CLARKE

I was born in 1929 in Mile End Hospital, Stepney, which makes me a Cockney. Stepney has changed a great deal since those days. All the little communities were like villages and you could leave your door unlocked, everyone knew their neighbours and a great deal about them. I was lucky where I was brought up. Carlton Square was a nice environment. Most of the houses were occupied by people with regular employment so nobody was right on the poverty line. We, as a family, were well fed and we even had a weeks holiday. My Mum was a good cook and used to search the markets for the cheapest cuts of meat (which nowadays are quite expensive). My Dad was a labourer in Mann Crossman Brewery and as my Mum was a full-time housewife money was tight.

My parents were lapsed free Church and went to a Mission Church, I was christened in the Anglcian Church

Our house did not have a bathroom and we had an outside toilet with an ill-fitting door with a large gap in the bottom through which the snow could blow. We had a parlour with a piano (which I regret turning down the opportunity to learn) and a three piece suite, which looked brand new as the room was only used at Christmas or if visitors or relations came. I was an only child and although I claim I was never spoilt, inevitably I must have been.

All our time was spent in the kitchen, the only room that was heated. Gas was the only means of lighting and reading was difficult on long winter evenings. At quite an early age I joined the Mile End Library That place plays a large part I my life. We had a wireless that was energised by a huge battery and a couple of accumulators. It was my job to take these to be recharged. The BBC used to broadcast two programmes. One was like Radio 4 and the other similar to Radio 2. It was called the Light Programme. We listened to ‘Monday Night at 8’. Older people will remember – It’s Monday night at eight o’clock, Oh can’t you hear the chimes, They’re telling you to take an easy chair, To settle by the fireside, Look at your Radio Times, For Monday Night at Eight is on the air.’ How sophisticated can you get? We had never heard of TV or mobile phones.

We went to Clacton most years. Most kids in the East End never went away and had never seen the sea. The nearest thing to the .seaside was along the banks of the Thames by Tower Bridge. Barge loads of sand was laid to make beach. In those days the Thames was filthy and it wasn’t very pleasant to paddle let alone swim.

For our holiday we took a motor coach to Clacton and stayed a week in a house quite a walk from the seafront. We stayed with a Mrs Martin who provided something called ‘board and attendance’. My mother and I would go every morning to the shops and buy our food and Mrs Martin and would cook it ready for our return at 12.30 for our dinner. In 1939 the war started. I had never been very good at school work and to make matters worse I had diphtheria during which I lost about 3 months of schooling. I never passed my exams for the Grammar or even Secondary School so I was still in the Elementary School. At the advent of war the schools were evacuated. I did not go so hence I was left with no schooling. I was 10 years old. After a month or so my mother managed to find a school and I went for a while, mornings one week and afternoons the next, as quite a few teachers had returned. In 1944 the Blitz started. My Dad was unfit so he was a fireman and when he was on duty my mother and I were alone in the air raid shelter. One morning we walked to Whitechapel, saw my Dad and then boarded a Green Line coach to Luton and caught a bus to Eggington where our next door neighbours had a cottage. They could not give us a bed but fixed us up at the local inn. Subsequently I became an evacuee, my mother returning to London. I spent my time going to quite a good school in Leighton Buzzard, joining the Church choir and taking confirmation classes. I was just about to be confirmed when I returned to Stepney. The only Church open was the Lycett Central Hall, part of the East End Mission. I became a regular worshipper at the Lycett. By now we were getting nuisance raids, which kept us on our toes. These were followed by VI doodle bugs, then V2 rockets which lasted until the Germans had been pushed back to make them out of range

When I was 14 and had left school, I was slightly better equipped education wise. I managed to get a job as a trainee tool maker in a jewellers in Hatton Garden. In the basement there was a large workshop with lathes, milling machines etc. They were making gauges for 16” guns and pressure valves for airmen’s helmets. It seemed that all of Holborn was doing some kind of war work. For three nights a week I had to go to evening classes. There were still intermittent air raids and of course a blackout. The classes were in Bethnal Green, a good mile from Carlton Square and after 8½ hours work plus ½hour travelling time it was quite tiring. Also I was helping to run the Scout Troop at the Lycett and my friend then told me he had been called up for the army and I took over running a Scout Troop in Poplar so I was squeezing quite a lot into my life. I was enjoying my education Maths, English and Technical Drawing. I was just about 16 when my employer, Mr Podolski, a Russian Jew, said that the war was coming to an end.and I could not finish my training as a toolmaker, but he would not like to lose me and when the jewellery craftsmen were returning to the workshops upstairs. As I was a bright young lad he said he would reduce a jewellery apprenticeship from 7 years to 5, and he would like me to sign indentures. My parents had to give consent and my mother came and signed the papers. He said he would pay for me to go to evening classes at the Central School of Arts and Crafts. My more academic classes were discontinued, which was a shame but it was more important that I got to grips with the basics of diamond mounting. At that time there was a 100% Purchase Tax on Jewellery, so major pieces were not being made. Platinum was £110 an ounce and we were making watch cases with matching bracelets. I have not worked out the modern day value of a 1944 pound compared to our current one, however a top class jeweller and diamond mounter earned about £10 a week, 4 shillings an hour, enough to buy a house in Loughton.

When I was 17½ I had my medical and aptitude test for my National Service, I was assigned to the RAF at 18 but as I was an apprentice I was given the choice of a deferment until I was 21. I thought this was the best idea. So when I was 21, on the Friday, I finished my apprenticeship, I was 21 on the Sunday and on the Monday I was on the train from Euston to Padgate in Lancaster. After my basic training at Bridgenorth I went to Kirkham between Preston and Blackpool. I was a gun armourer and at the end of the course we were asked if we had a preference for where we would like to be stationed. Having been in the Padre’s office and seen that there was an airbase on Thorney Island I put that as my second choice, my first being North Weald. As I was a keen cyclist this would have been in easy reach of Stepney, my home and the Scouts. That wasn’t to be and I got my second choice, where all my spare time was spent at the Yacht Club. I was keen on sailing, so off season I worked varnishing and repairing the rigging on the boats.

At weekends when I had a pass we could get a train to Waterloo, or slightly cheaper, but quite convenient, a coach from the camp to Waterloo. When I reached home I would dump my kit and go straight round to the Mile End Library, I liked books but I also hoped to get a glimpse of my little library girl and get a lovely smile. I was so very shy and would not say boo to a goose.

If truth be told I quite enjoyed my National Service during which we had the Festival of Britain, the King died and Elizabeth became our Queen, and I like to joke that I served under 2 Monarchs

Having completed my two years I returned to Mr Podolsky’s. It is not good to stay at the firm where you were an apprentice so after about a year I started looking for another job. I was also challenged by my mother that if I did not go and ask that library girl out then she would do it for me. It was with a lot of hope that I went round and fortunately she was on duty that day. The rest is history. We married in 1955, Steve was born in 1959 and in 1960 we moved from Stepney to Highams Park and Winchester.

Afternoon Tea!

Did you manage to come along to the afternoon tea event held in May this year? If you did, you may have been one of the many people who asked when the next one would be. I told you that we would definitely do another one at some point but I wasn’t sure when. Well, await no more as assorted sandwiches, fresh scones with clotted cream and jam and home made cakes will be available once again on Saturday 15^th October 2016 from 3.00pm to 4.30pm. There will also be a raffle with tickets being sold on the day.

Please book quickly to avoid disappointment. Fliers will be in the hub and church and will be given out to all children attending any of the Scout and Guide groups which meet within Winchester Road or alternatively contact Kathryn.

All the proceeds from this event will go towards the running costs for the pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk which is being held in October to raise money for the Church Building Fund.

Kathryn Cooper 07846135915 or kjc273@hotmail.com

SHOEBOXES

Have you wrapped your Christmas presents yet? No? Well on a Tuesday in August ten of us were taught by Sylvia Dixon how to wrap a Christmas shoe box using a ruler, a pencil, scissors and glue. They will be sent to children in Eastern Europe after the service on November 6th.

Janet Dawe

JEAN VIGGERS

The passing of Jean Viggers (nee Booth) in July broke another of the links between Winchester Road and Handsworth Avenue Methodist Churches. The Booth and Viggers families were at the core of Handsworth and Jean was active in church life running the Beginners Dept of the Sunday School and later, with her husband Roy, setting up and running the Youth Club where many of us met our partners. When Handsworth closed Jean and Roy came to Winchester Road.

It was typical of Jean that she quickly became involved in life here joining the Wesley Guild and Wednesday Fellowship. She responded to calls for help becoming a Pastoral Visitor, Communion Steward and assisting Janice with the counting and recording of the collection Sunday by Sunday. Above all it was her outgoing personality and willingness to help that will be missed, by us, her neighbours in Tamworth Avenue and many who will remember her as a cheerful and friendly person. She was a much loved aunt to the children of her brother John Booth and Roy’s brother Trevor Viggers who will miss her but will retain happy memories of her.

Allen Steel

What a wonderful funeral was held for our dear friend Jean Viggers on 19th July. She obviously touched so many lives, for who can boast a congregation of about 100 at the age of 89?

Not only were her loving family and Church family there, but neighbours, those from other churches and groups such as Keep Fit.

Her death came as such a shock to us all, as Jean had remained busy and bright to the end and indeed had other commitments lined up, such as Holiday Club!

We will miss her cheery presence dearly and must console ourselves with the knowledge that she is reunited with Roy and her beloved Saviour who she served so well.

God Bless you Jean.

Barbara Chapman

The 2016 Annual Conference of the Methodist Church passed a resolution containing the following text:

The United Kingdom, as a result of the referendum on 23 June 2016, has voted to leave the European Union. In this time of very significant change and uncertainty there is a need for leadership which seeks the common good and encourages people to work together, to respect one another and to uphold the dignity of all.

The Methodist Conference believes that the British Isles are enriched by diversity and celebrates the contribution made by those who have come from other parts of the world.

The Christian tradition calls for respect, tolerance, love of neighbour and hospitality to the stranger. All bear the responsibility of speaking and acting for healing, reconciliation, and mutual respect.

The Methodist Conference abhors and deeply regrets those actions and words which incite hatred and lead to the victimisation of groups within society and notes with concern that such actions and words have been normalised in recent public discourse. Believing that racism is a denial of the gospel and that to stay silent when others are abused is to collude with those who seek to promote hatred and division, the Methodist Conference calls:

On the Methodist people to challenge racism and discrimination
For a political debate which neither demonises any nor leaves the vulnerable (the foreigner, the immigrant and refugee) in danger of victimisation.
On political leaders to work together for the good of the whole community putting the needs of the nation before party politics.
on all those in positions of power and authority to hear the voices of those who have been marginalised and alienated and to respond to them in ways which offer real hope for the future.

LIFE CHOICE— A small boy returned from Sunday School in tears.

When asked by his mother for the reason of his distress, he gulped, “Jesus wants me for a sunbeam, but I want to be an engine driver”.

BAPTISM

On Sunday 7th August we welcomed Toby Nicholas Frank Langley, son of Karen and Alex Langley into our Church family. He was surrounded by his family and friends. Toby is the grandson of Hazel Mathews.

TRANSPORT

If you need transport to hospital or doctor’s appointment Barbara Chapman can recommend Paul, a driver with previous experience at Bayfield Court and The Spinney.. He will remain with the patient for the duration of the appointment. Wheelchairs can be accommodated in the boot of his car.

Cost is £13 per hour, Contact Paul on 07855600593.

Barbara is willing to give a reference if needed.

TRAIDCRAFT

A new autumn Traidcraft brochure is now available which contains all the Christmas items. Please take a brochure and let me have any orders I do not order things to put on the stall over £10 as I might be left with an expensive item. Do think of Fairtrade which will help someone trying to make a living when you try to decide Christmas gifts this year.

Do come to look at the stall on Sunday mornings, you might try something and if it does not work for you try something else. I buy soap which is really nice, try washing up liquid or washing liquid or hand wash. There’s chocolate, yogurt coated raisins, fudge, chocolate raisons etc, treat yourself. Everyone needs toilet rolls, nice warm socks or a bright shiny biro there is plenty there. It is a bit more expensive that is why its Fairtrade to give others a fair chance to make a living but a few extra pence once a week will not hurt most people.

Sylvia Dixon

YOU CAN’T ESCAPE THE OLYMPICS!

Three men were trying to sneak into the Olympic village to scoop souvenirs and autographs. The first said, “Let’s watch the registration table and see if there’s a crack in the security system we can use to scam our way in”.

Immediately, a burly athlete walked up to the table and stated, “Angus MacLeod GB, Shot-put”. He opened his gym bag to display a shot-put”.

The attendant said, “Very good, Mr MacLeod. Here is your registration pack, with hotel keys, passes, meal tickets and other information”,

The first man grabbed a small tree sapling and stripped off the branches and roots and walked up the desk and stated “Chuck Wagon, Canada. Javelin”.

The attendant said “Very good. Here is your registration pack”.

The second man grabbed a street manhole cover and also walked up to the desk. “Dusty Rhodes, Australia. Discus”.

The attendant said “Terrific, Mr Rhodes. Here is your registration pack”.

They scampered in, but realised the third man was missing. They groaned “OH NO!”. He is a dope. They had forgotten to make sure he had not blown their cover.

They saw him walking with a roll of barbed wire under his arm. He walked up to the table and stated, “Foster Bean, Hardwick, Vermont. Fencing”.

JUNE 2016 NEWSLETTER

Letter from the Stewards

As Hilary, our Minister, is still on sabbatical, once again this letter comes from the Stewards.

On reading “The Sunday Link” recently, we were both particularly struck by one of the reflections, which we thought outlined a useful plan of action for us all to follow. The reflection was written by St Therese Garman, who is described as a lecturer and consultant specialising in the integration of psychology and spirituality; the title was “The A-Z of healthy living – A is for attitude”. Sr. Garman points out something that subconsciously we probably all know but of which we are possibly not aware, ie that our attitude affects our behaviour and that we communicate our attitude through our behaviour. We felt it might be helpful to elaborate on the points made by Sr. Garman, who writes that by changing our attitude, we can – hopefully – convert an unpleasant experience into a fulfilling one, and our problems into blessings, and that the success or failure of a task will be determined by our attitude, which in turn can influence our happiness. For instance, do you tend to see a difficulty in every opportunity or an opportunity in every difficulty?

As we are reminded in Philippians 2: v 3-8, Jesus himself had a healthy attitude. If any of us feel our attitude is not always appropriate when seeking to live a Christian life, we can change it, but first of all we need to be aware of it. Sr. Garman recommends that we ask ourselves which of our attitudes seem to cause us problems so that we can begin making the necessary changes, and that we pray for help in effecting such changes and in dealing with others’ difficult attitudes. We are sure that all of us know people who seem to have a difficult, often negative, attitude to life in general and to whom we sometimes have difficulty in relating. However, if we try to have compassion for such people by recognising how unpleasant it must be to feel like that, we are likely to find it easier to deal with any such difficulty.

We are very pleased to report that the appointment as Steward of Carol and Dumisani Moyo was formally ratified at Annual Church Meeting and we welcome them to our team.

We have heard from Hilary that she and Leo’s time on the Mercy Ship is going well and we look forward to their return at the beginning of June. With the feel of spring really in the air and the colours in the gardens bursting forth in all their glory, it really is a time to give thanks.

With blessings to you all.

Mary Burgoine and Mary Rose French, Senior Stewards

LADIES’ PAMPER EVENING

I went to the Ladies’ Pamper Evening for the first time last Friday. As I walked to the church I was feeling very tired and wondered whether I had been wise to book an evening treatment.

However, when I got there and went into the Hub my spirits lifted instantly. The space looked and felt transformed with lights, flowers and decorations. Although people were moving around and having treatments the atmosphere was so calm.

I received a very friendly welcome and the lucky dip gift was a lovely surprise. Finding my way around was so easy due to the very competent signing. People were smiling and greeting each other even though they hadn’t met before making the occasion a great community event.

I went to wait for my foot treatment and was surprised to find a waiting area with magazines to read and tasty treats to enjoy. My therapist was very friendly and the treatment was so relaxing.

I then went to find some refreshments and again was impressed by the thought that had gone into planning this evening. Stalls with nice things to buy and an excellent raffle were there as well as a welcome drink and cake.

On my way home I realised that this event had provided stimulation for all five senses – quite an achievement!

Experiences like this don’t just happen and I am aware that so many people must have given their time and talents to plan and create such an amazing experience. THEY ALL DESERVE OUR VERY GRATEFUL THANKS.

Shirley Seaman

THE PAMPER EVENING RAISED

£1,150

a magnificent total which is being shared between the Church and Julie,

a young Mum, with cancer.

Hazel has received this letter from Julie…

I would like to take the opportunity to thank you so much for allowing the funds from the Pamper Night to be shared with my treatment fund. I can’t express in words what this means to myself and my family.

I am touched by the kindness and support the Church community have offered during my illness and this has given me such strength during difficult times.

Many, many thanks to you all.

Julie x

Finances

Monthly offertory collections for April are as follows;

April £2,752.26

A further £215 was donated via the undertakers in memory of Peggy Stewart which has gone into the Building Fund.

Whilst preparing our Gift Aid submission at the end of April I became aware that several members are updating their giving on a regular basis – whether they give by direct debit or in the envelope scheme. Other members give further donations at times through the year which increases their giving.

However, there are many members who have given the same monthly amount for over 5 years. Could I ask these members to see whether they may be able to update their giving at some point in the future?

Janice

Please remember there is no newsletter in August so if you want to publicise an event etc. it needs to go in the July edition in next month

Hymns for the nation?

In April we celebrated the Queen’s 90th birthday and as usual this month there will be the ceremony of Trooping the Colour held on the Queen’s official birthday. This led me to look up the old Methodist Hymn Book of 1932 which included a section entitled National and Social Life. Older members of the congregation will recall some of the 22 hymns that were printed under the sub heading Queen (King), Citizenship and Nation but only one of them has been included in STF, Isaac Watts hymn O God our help in ages past (STF132). It appears in the section Times and Seasons after the harvest hymns sandwiched between two other Remembrance Day hymns.

Anyone searching for William Blake’s Jerusalem (And did those feet walk upon England’s mountains green), regarded by many as England’s Anthem will not find it in any of these three hymn books. The old book in this section included the first two verses of the National Anthem but it is in neither of the other two hymn books. In the nineteenth century a Victorian philanthropist and educationalist William Edward Hickson wrote some verses to replace some militant anti Scots verses which were added to the original version after the Jacobite rebellions. Hickson’s verses were included in the 1932 MHB as a discrete hymn sung to the tune Moscow but obviously the National Anthem tune fits. MHB 880.

God bless our native land !

May heaven’s protecting hand

still guard our shore:

May peace her power extend.

Foe be transformed to friend,

And Britain’s rights depend

On war no more.

Changing attitudes after the Second World War caused the casting out of those hymns perceived as being nationalistic or with triumphalist overtones when Hymns and Psalms was published in 1983. Amongst them was Rudyard Kipling’s strange hymn (MHB 899) written in 1897 for Queen Victoria’s Jubilee.

God of our fathers, known of old,

Lord of our far flung battle line ,

Beneath whose awful hand we hold

Dominion over palm and pine—

At a time of national rejoicing and at the high point of imperial pride Kipling was concerned that the nation was becoming ‘drunk with a sight of power’ that would not last and that as a nation we were losing the spirit of a ’humble and a contrite heart.

Far-called our navies melt away,

On dune and headland sinks the fire

Lo, all our pomp of yesterday

Is one with Nineveh and Tyre !

Judge of the nations , spare us yet,

Lest we forget —lest we forget !

Following the section on Queen and Nation the MHB moves on to Citizenship and Service. The hymns in this section are steeped in commitment and include another by Kipling MHB 899

Land of our birth, we pledge to thee

Our love and toil in the years to be

Better known is Hymn MHB 900 originally written in 1908 by Cecil Spring-Rice who was a professional diplomat, and he revised it shortly before his death in 1918. It speaks of the Christian’s loyalty to two kingdoms, reflecting Jesus response when challenged about the payment of taxes to Rome. ’Pay the Emperor what belongs to the Emperor pay God what belongs to God. (Matt 22 v 21). The hymn begins with patriotic lines suggesting unquestioning loyalty to the nation.

I vow to thee my country, all earthly things above,

Entire and whole and perfect, the service of my love.

The love that asks no question, the love that stands the test

That lays upon the altar the dearest and the best.

The love that never falters , the love that pays the price

the love that makes undaunted the final sacrifice

The hymn came under criticism because of this call for unconditional love of country and the implied reference to the laying down of life in the 1914-18 War in the closing lines of verse 1. .

In the second verse Rice contrasts this with the heavenly kingdom which begins

And there’s another’s another country I’ve heard of long ago,

Concluding

And soul by soul and silently her shining bounds increase,

And her ways are ways of gentleness and all her paths are peace

It probably owes its survival and inclusion in some hymn books (but not STF) due to Gustaf Holst’s adaptation of a splendid melody from his popular orchestral Planet Suite to fit Rice’s words. The hymn was a favourite of Diana Spencer who asked for its inclusion in her marriage service to Prince Charles and it was sung at her funeral. It was also sung at Margaret Thatcher’s funeral and was also sung by Katherine Jenkins at the Queen’s 90th Birthday celebration at Windsor last month.

The section then moves on to the theme of World Peace and Brotherhood. This selection made before the Second World War and the Nuclear Age has hymns written in language which will not appeal to today’s worshippers. In Singing the Faith these themes are grouped under the broad heading God’s enduring purposes and the breadth of content embracing both contemporary hymns/songs and hymns from the past is the strength of our new hymn book.

Allen Steel

FROM BARBARA CHAPMAN

I moved with my parents into Winchester Road on Christmas Eve in 1950. I had just celebrated my 4th birthday.

My mother would talk of her childhood days at Sunday School. She would show me her prizes, ad pretty coloured texts (not on a mobile).

I remember one day, when I was 7, announcing that I wanted to go to Sunday School. I have always considered this to be “my calling” as I did not come from a Church going family.

Mum duly brought me along to Winchester Road Methodist Church just before 3.00pm one Sunday, as Sunday School was in the afternoons then. I went straight into the Junior Department. The Sunday School was so big in those days that we had several departments, which were then divided into more classes. These was Beginners, Primary, Juniors, Seniors and the Young People’s Fellowship. Each department had not only teachers, but a leader, pianist and secretary too!

I felt welcomed and loved at Church, and so began my Christian journey. I have happy memories of Sunday School, including the summer trips, often to Chessington, and the Christmas parties. John Dixon figures big in my memory with his games, film shows and ice cream!

When I was 14 in YPF some of us were asked to become Sunday School teachers. We all agreed and had 3 weeks training with dear Viv Pritchard, the Sunday School Superintendent . One of the things we learnt was the art of storytelling, something that put me in good stead for my future career as a Children’s Librarian. Once I was installed as a teacher, myself and all the other teachers, would meet at 7.45pm every Wednesday night for ‘preparation’. The first 15 minutes would be a devotional time which we shared together before breaking off into our separate departments. These times of devotion were very special because all the teachers shared together.

Every detail was planned for the following Sunday, right down to who was bringing the flowers for the table. We took it in turns to prepare our rooms, always done on a Saturday. The registers were checked , birthdays noted, and any child who missed 2 Sundays had to be visited by their teacher.

In my late teens, I also tutored the children who were studying for their Scripture Exam. Sunday School Anniversary was celebrated, not only on Sunday, but Saturday too, with a concert/variety show!!! I was involved in these.

Viv and Pam Kistruck ran a club on a Tuesday for under 14’s which I thoroughly enjoyed. We then progressed to the youth Club run by Dave Poste and Cecil Holgate. We had 2 hours of fun which included dancing, table tennis, Russian pool (or whatever!) and a meaningful epilogue. We were expected to attend YPF o a Sunday evening after Church too.

I joined the Guides, but I don’t think I was a very good one as I couldn’t swim and never went camping. However, I took my promise seriously and felt conscious of the time that the leaders gave up for us.

Peter and I married at Winchester road in 1968 and moved to Woodford Bridge. There we worshipped for 7 years at Broadmead Baptist Church. There I was quickly placed in the Sunday School, teaching again. This was where we also learned to play Badminton. Our services lasted for over 1½ hours. Pretty tough when the Sunday School teachers had started a 9.30am before going into Church. We were encouraged to take notes during the sermon. I found this useful when preparing lessons.

In 1975 we moved back to Highams Park and Winchester Road Methodist Church where I have remained. Once again we were given a warm welcome. Christian and Alison were born , christened at the Church. They remained until they went to University, attending Sunday School, Uniformed Organisations and serving where they could, eg crèche, choir, music etc.

Ti e, Winchester Road has been Church that has tremendous outreach, helping wherever it can. Here I have found the Lord and tried to follow Him, not always an easy task. I have stumbles many time. But “Winchester” calls you back to worship and serve, and as dear Kath Barnes would say “Love then into the Kingdom”.

I feel I owe so much to so many who did just that.

Young Church Anniversary 2016

This year’s Young Church Anniversary saw something a little different to normal. The theme was Staying Connected, and instead of a play, the Young Church took over the whole service. We had the older ones doing the sound and screens, and others taking over the role of the Stewards and doing the offertory, the introduction and prayers. The Cookie Club also put together a short drama showing the story of Pentecost.

Rachel had visited Jordan, taking with her some messages from some youth groups including ones from Biscuit Club. We saw a short video clip from when she met all the children in the refugee camps and passed these messages on.

Louise Bygrave

HOLIDAY CLUB

Our 10^th Holiday Club will take place from Monday 25^th July to Friday 29^th July, every morning from 10am to 12.45 pm. It is open to children aged 5 to 11 (reception to year 6).

There will be a variety of activities including stories, cooking, craft and games based on the theme ‘Counting on God’. On Wednesday we will have a picnic, which we will provide, finishing at 3.30pm. On Sunday 31^st July the children and helpers will lead morning worship, 10.30 – 11.30, to share some of the week’s activities.

The cost, for the week, will be £15 per child. Details will be made available to members of the Young Church and the Uniformed Organisations or you can contact Jan Dent (jdent7@gmail.com) to reserve a place

GEORGIA USA IN THE STEPS OF THE WESLEYS.

As Heritage Stewards at Wesley’s Chapel we meet and talk to visitors from all over the world. We greet many visitors from America and it was therefore a wonderful opportunity to be able to join a group, led by June and Peter Curtis, travelling to Georgia USA. One of the main focuses of the tour was to explore the origins of the colony, the faith of the early colonists and in particular the story of John and Charles Wesley’s time in Georgia.

Seventeen of us met at Heathrow Airport and flew to Atlanta where we were met by our Georgian guide and our coach driver, both of whom soon became part of the group. Our ‘Wesley Trail’ started when we drove down to St. Simon’s Island and visited ‘Epworth By The Sea’. This is an interesting and beautiful place with tranquil and peaceful gardens and conference and worship facilities. Here we had a tour of the Arthur J. Moore Museum of Methodism which traces the history of Methodism from the time of John and Charles Wesley landing in America in 1736 until the present day. For two stewards from London it was particularly interesting to learn how the American Church had developed and to find out more about the influence of Thomas Coke, Francis Asbury and other preachers sent out by John Wesley to continue the work. Our journey then took us to Christ Episcopal Church where the Church Administrator told us about John and Charles preaching there and pointed out two windows commemorating them. Across the road from the church is the Wesley Memorial Gardens, another tranquil spot planted with native trees and shrubs. The road between the church and the garden is the Military Road to Fort Frederica which was frequently walked by the Wesleys as Charles Wesley was General Oglethorpe’s secretary.

The following day we left for Savannah, passing Cockspurs Island the point where John and Charles first landed in America on February 7^th 1736. There is a commemorative marker recording the event at the place where they landed. Savannah is an historic, interesting and beautiful. City. Our ‘Wesley Trail’ here started with a City Tour, on a bus named ‘John Wesley’, to see various sites including Wesley’s Parsonage and garden, his statue, where he preached his first sermon and the Town Hall where he held regular services. We took in the historic part of Savannah too including the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and the Colonial Park Cemetery. Unfortunately Christ Church was closed but it was here where John Wesley was appointed the Anglican Minister and where he started America’s first Sunday School and published the first Hymnal for use in America. Incidentally George Whitefield followed John Wesley as Christ Church’s next minister. The cooperative links between the religious congregations of Savannah was emphasised when we visited the Congregation Mickve Israel, founded by members of the Bevis Marks Synagogue in London, who had used the Methodist Church when their building had burnt down.

In Salzburg, Austria, a large number of Lutherans had been expelled because they would not conform to Catholicism, eventually they settled in Ebenezer, Georgia, under their Pastor Johann Martin Baltzius. John Wesley frequently visited them and he and the Pastor became friends. We spent a very interesting time at Ebenezer touring the Ebenezer Lutheran Church and the Saltzburger Museum discovering many links to John Wesley and the hard life that people had who lived there.

The ‘Methodist’ part of our trip ended as we joined a service at The First United Methodist Church of Pine Mountain, not far from Atlanta. Here we were made very welcome and came away with presents of mugs, pens and loaves of bread.

During the trip we also learnt about the War of Independence, the American Civil War, slavery and the Civil Rights movement as well as visiting tourist destinations. Maybe more about that later,

Carole Merriman

WINCHESTER ROAD OPEN FELLOWSHIP

Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 2.30pm to about 4.00pm

JUNE

15th Beetle Drive

JULY

6th Outing

20th Tea at Sylvia’s

Guides & Cubs get active

Over the May Bank Holiday weekend 26 Guides & Cubs from the Winchester Road units went for a long weekend at PGL. These are activity centres around the country – the initials belong to the man who set the first ones up but they are often translated as Parents Get Lost!

Our centre was in Surrey – near Hindhead. We travelled by coach but the traffic was particularly bad that evening and it took us almost 3 hours to get there. Over the 3 days the children were able to take part in 9 different activities from using a zip wire, climbing and quad biking to rifle shooting and raft building. For the raft building all 3 groups were scheduled at the same time. They had to design their raft then build it a take part in various challenges on the water whilst navigating their raft. Great fun!

Each evening there were activities arranged to tire them out before bedtime. The weather was kinder to us than we had feared and a good time was had by all.

On the night of 14^th May a group of Cubs went to the Science Museum for a sleepover. They arrived at 7.00 in the evening, set up their sleeping area among the space exhibits then had a full evening of activities connected with rockets and planets. They actually managed to get a reasonable nights sleep but were up early again the next morning for a fun packed lecture in the lecture theatre all about the digestive system of the human body and an Imax film. The sleepover finished at 10.00 a.m. when 13 weary cubs – & 2 weary leaders made their way home!

Annual Church Meeting 2016

With Hilary on sabbatical leave the Superintendent minister asked Rev. Dr. John Lampard to chair this year’s meeting on Sunday May 15th. In his Pentecost Sermon during the service which preceded the meeting John told us not to hope for some great event like that which the disciples experienced but to look at the different aspects of our church and strive by our own efforts to a one per cent improvement. All these single percentages when added together would move our church on.

At the meeting he began by welcoming the reports which had been circulated in advance and invited comments. There was a general feeling that the Hub, though expensive, was a welcome addition to our premises and the church’s outreach.

Outreach Report, the Friday Coffee Mornings were welcomed by Gym Tots parents though it was hoped that church members and others would be drawn in. Its success means that more helpers are needed. Any profits should be donated to charities including Haven House. Roger Pettit invited members to visit and admire the redecorated toilets and Room 1. The Treasurer said that fundraising was on track and there was every hope that loans raised for building the Hub would be repaid on time. The printed reports were all agreed. (If you want a copy of the reports please ask a steward).

Appointments

The meeting agreed unanimously that the present stewards and members of the Church Council should continue to serve (Methodist Church Rules require this to be done annually). In addition Carol and Dumisani Moyo were unanimously invited to serve jointly as stewards.

Issues raised as AOB by the meeting

Concerns about the once a quarter Coming Forward Communion services were expressed. Allen Steel ( Communion Steward) after discussions with Hilary had written a proposal for discussion. The vote to test the congregations view on this way of conducting the service showed that the majority were in favour.

Barbara Chapman showed the newly produced ‘Book of Remembrance’ where the names of people who had served the church in different roles in the past could be recorded.

Sunday services. We welcome visitors to Sunday services but Maureen Duncan voiced a widely held concern that we need to explain more clearly what was going on during the service. The giving of Easter Eggs to Special Schools, the role of Benevolent Fund, what is JMA , where do the Pennies collection go were cited as examples.

The Music Edition of Singing the Faith was unwieldy and liable to fall off the music stand. It was proposed that the three volume Organ Addition be purchased.

Sam Ebdon told the meeting of the proposal to install a heart defibrillator which gives a ‘therapeutic dose of electric current to restore normal heart rhythms’ was being discussed by the Church Council. The main issues were cost, location and training.

ALL WE CAN with Syrian refugees in Jordan

In May I was privileged to travel to Jordan with the Methodist charity, ‘All We Can’, to see the work that they are doing to support Syrian refugees.

Yaman Maradni is a Syrian and together with her friend, Thekrayat Al-Kuhlfat, a Jordanian, is Community Health Volunteer for Medair, a charity funded by All We Can. I met Yaman and Thekrayat at a Mothers’ Support Group for Syrian refugees. In some ways it was like a group of mothers anywhere in the world, with laughter, coffee and children. But these women have all left behind them houses, families , friends, jobs, security, and a devastated home country.

Since the conflict began in Syria five years ago, over 4 million people have left the country as refugees, and 6.6 million are internally displaced within the country. Within Syria, healthcare, education systems, and other infrastructure have been destroyed. The economy is shattered. Thousands have lost loved ones, suffered injuries and have witnessed violence and brutality. Warring parties forcibly recruit people to serve as human shields and fighters and in support roles, and those that resist have been imprisoned, tortured or killed.

Yaman fled Syria for Jordan. She spoke with me emotionally about what she left behind, which was much more than just personal possessions:

It’s not about the physical things that you lost… You cannot replace some things. The memory that you left in some place will never come back again. Our house was in a situation like a siege, it was very difficult to go out to bring things from my house. My father was with me and he asked me to take some stuff or clothes for my daughter but I refused. There was a homemade embroidered towel from my mother-in-law, it was, from her wedding. I took it, but my father said: take a different (useful) thing. I said no, it’s a memory from my wedding, it’s from someone that I love. I left too many memories, I left my lovely friends.

Jordan’s refugee population is now well over 600,000 people. Jordan has accepted more refugees than the whole of Europe combined. An estimated 130,000 of them live in refugee camps, but the rest live among the Jordanian community. I visited a family living in one room of an office block; others live in shabby accommodation which often isn’t suitable for habitation. Their ability to work is very restricted, and rent, food and healthcare are far from cheap.

‘All We Can’ is working with charities on the ground to provide a range of support, including access to healthcare for pregnant women and new mothers (I visited one family with a two week old baby); help to buy food and pay rent; and safe spaces for child refugees.

We visited the Child Forum in Husn camp. The families who live there are both Palestinian and Syrian refugees. The Forum provides a place for children to play, make friends, and talk about their experiences. I was able to take messages from the young people in Biscuit Club at Winchester Rd, messages which assured them of our prayers for peace, our hopes that they would feel loved, and our assurances that, despite the distance, we were thinking of them. The workers at the Forum said they would use these messages, one a week, to help the children reflect on themes of peace and friendship. Many of these children have seen things that no child should ever have to see. The work of the Child Forum allows them still to be children.

I saw a lot of pain during my week in Jordan, as people talked about what they had left behind and their desire to return “home”. I saw the amazing work being done by All We Can partners, Medair and DSPR – and just how much of a difference can be made to people’s lives with relatively small amounts of money. But my overwhelming impression was of the people themselves. People like Yaman, who despite losing everything, is now volunteering as a Community Health Volunteer to educate other refugee women and families about health, child care and human rights. People like the father who, when asked what he wanted for his children, said: “I want them to be the best people that they can be”. Refugees are not passive recipients of aid, but human beings made in the image of God.

Rachel Lampard

Yaman Maradni, a refugee from Damascus in Syria who is a community health volunteer with Medair

Pantomime

Have you always wanted to tread the boards as a pantomime dame, be a thigh-slapping hero or get the audiences booing as an evil villain?

Winchester Road Church in conjunction with the Winchester Road Scout and Guide Family group is holding a Get Together for our next pantomime, ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ by Maureen Duncan, and we need you!

There are main characters and ensemble parts available. Whether you are a confident all-rounder looking for a big role or if you’d prefer to take a smaller part, sing or dance in a group, come along and find out more at our friendly Get Together on Sunday 17^th July from 3pm to 5pm at Winchester Road Church.

It’s lots of fun and open to everyone aged five and above, who is associated with the church and the family group who would like to be involved either acting, dancing, making costumes, playing in the band, designing scenery, making props, selling tickets…the list is endless.

Rehearsals take place each Sunday afternoon from 4^th September from 2.30pm to 5.00pm

In just seven weeks of rehearsal, we reach ‘Pantomime’ week which is during school half term from Sunday 23^rd to 29^th October (this includes dress rehearsals and 3 performances in our mini theatre staged in the Memorial Hall, at Winchester Road Church.

I’m interested in being involved – so how much is it going to cost?
It will cost you absolutely nothing to be involved – all you have to do is commit your time and you will have the opportunity to meet new people, have fun with a friendly team, and be part of a fantastic public production!

I’d like to be in the main cast or help out backstage instead – can I do that?
Definitely! Send an email to me before the Get Together telling me how you want to be involved (cast or backstage) to michaelhayward15@hotmail.com or telephone 0208 5275435

I’m interested – in being considered for a main cast speaking role- what can I do?

Please contact Maureen and email maureenduncan@mac.com
We look forward to meeting you and hope you can join us on our pantomime adventure!

Craft Fair 2016

This year’s Craft Fair will be held on Saturday 1st October and we already have a great selection of stalls offering handmade items and crafts. We do however had a limited number of stalls still available to hire so if you know someone that would be interested in taking a stall for just £10 please ask them to get in contact with me at deborah_crawford@hotmail.com.

To make the event a success we are also reliant on help to make it run smoothly. Can you help with any of the following?

Delivering flyers 7-14 days ahead of event
Making items to sell on the church stall
Making cakes to sell on refreshments
Help on the day: admissions, refreshments, supervising the Church stall

If you can help at all please do let me know. The more helpers we get the better.

Thank you for your support

Debbie Crawford

SHOEBOXES

I know that ‘Shoebox Time’ is a long way off, but time oases so quickly and I start packing the boxes at the end of September. I have been checking what I have and find I have very little of some items. I need:

Flannels for boys and girls, Cars , Noisy things to bang or blow, Games ,Colouring books small enough to go in box, Colouring pencils, Paints, Playing cards etc . Pretty things for girls ie hair things, Jewellery, Gloves as they will be going to cold countries in Eastern Europe. I have lots of balls. Later so they are not out of date, we need sweets and chocolate. We can send shampoo too.

I also put a Christmas card in each box with the names of those on the Pastoral List.

Sylvia Dixon

Bill Gates died in a car accident. He found himself in Purgatory, being sized up by God.

“Well, Bill. I’m really confused, I’m not sure whether to send you to Heaven or Hell. After all, you enormously helped society by putting a computer in every home in the world yet you created that ghastly Windows 8. I’m going to do something I’ve never done before, I’m going to let you decide where you want to go!”

Bill replied, “Well thanks, God. What’s the difference between the two?”

God said, “I’m willing to let you visit both places briefly if it will help you make a decision”.

“Fine, but where should I go first?”

God said, “I’m going to leave that up to you”.

Bill said. “OK, let’s try Hell first”.

So Bill went to Hell. It was beautiful, clean sandy beach with clear waters. There were thousands of happy people running around and playing in the water, laughing and frolicking about. The sun was shining, the temperature was perfect. Bill was very pleased.

“This is great!”, he told God. “If this is Hell, I REALLY want to see Heaven!”

“Fine,” said God and off they went. Heaven was a high place in the clouds, with angels drifting about playing harps and singing/ It was nice but not so enticing as Hell. Bill thought for a quick minute and made his decision.

“Hmm, I think I prefer Hell”., he told God.

“Fine” retorted God, “as you desire”. So Bill Gates went to Hell. Two weeks later, God decided to check up on the late billionaire to see how he was doing in Hell. When God arrived in Hell, he found Bill shackled to a wall, screaming amongst the hot flames in a dark cave. He was being burned and tortured by demons.

“How’s everything going Bill?” God asked.

Bill responded, his voice full of anguish and disappointment. “This is awful. this is not what I expected. I can’t believe this happened. What happened to the other place with the beautiful beach and happy people playing in the water”.

God said, “That was the screen saver!”

MAY 2016 NEWSLETTER

Letter from the Stewards

As you are all probably aware, Hilary, our Minister, is on sabbatical until the end of May so this letter comes from the Stewards. Whilst writing this, we have just celebrated our Church Anniversary and Gift Day, when we had the pleasure of welcoming Rev. Sue Conroy, one of our past ministers, to lead our worship. Afterwards it was good to catch up on the family news over coffee.

Do please consider all the events taking place this month – see the Newsletter for full details. If you’ve never been to an Auction Supper, for example, why not give it a go – they’re great fun. If you’d like to come please order tickets, and state which meal you’d like, as soon as possible. You’ll see from the Newsletter that both the Auction Supper and the Pamper Night (see Hazel for tickets) are being held to raise funds for Winchester so that we can pay back our loans on schedule.

Look out for the Christian Aid envelopes which may be popping through your letterbox between 15^th and 21^st May. Please make a prayerful consideration before you place a donation in the envelope to help with the work being done by Christian Aid in the world. This year, for the first time, we are also holding a Big Breakfast before Church on 15^th May to raise even more funds for this good work. All are welcome.

We hope you have received your Commemorative Bookmark to mark the Queen’s 90^th Birthday; it comes with good wishes from Winchester Road and with gratitude to the Queen, who is very loyal in her faith. We will probably have a few spare Commemorative Bookmarks so if you know of someone who would like one but does not belong to Winchester, please see Mary B. or Mary-Rose.

Church members will know that the Annual Church Meeting has had to be postponed until 15^th May. On the original date, 17^th April, members would have been asked to ratify a proposal that Carole and Dumisani Moyo be appointed Church Stewards (sharing the role) and although their appointment cannot be formally ratified until 15^th May, we know this will be a fait accompli and we are delighted to welcome them to our team.

As we enjoy the lighter evenings and our thoughts turn to any travel plans we may have, we ask you to pray for Hilary, who is spending part of her sabbatical on the Mercy Ships (with Leo), and for all their patients who would not otherwise receive the treatment they need. Let us give thanks for the fact that we ourselves have access to medical treatment without having to walk days on end to reach where the ship is docked, with no guarantee of treatment at the end. We would also ask you to pray for other such organisations, for example Medecins Sans Frontieres, who seek to bring health-care to those in need.

We wish everyone a very Happy Summer.

Mary Burgoine and Mary Rose French, Senior Stewards

Easter Carols *

I always find my heart lifted up at a joyous Easter Day service when we decorate the empty cross with flowers and sing the familiar resurrection hymns. This year the BBC Easter Songs of Praise prompted me to type this article for I had not realised that there was a tradition of Easter Carols. Carols are not just for Christmas but in the past were sung also at Eastertide. Carols are festive songs whose name is taken from the old French, carole, which was a simple round dance and song performed on special occasions from 12th to the 14th century. Some were linked to Medieval Mystery Plays performed in churches or in the street telling the story of key events such as the Crucifixion and Resurrection, and were regarded as outreach to the community. They had to be tuneful and with a rhythm which urged hearers to dance. During the English reformation the Puritans discouraged such unseemly thought, and in their view irreligious practices and it was not until the revival of interest in medieval art, music and religion which occurred during the late Victorian period.

An important impetus for Carols came with the publication of the Oxford Book of Carols in1928,in which there is the first appearance of the Easter Carol ‘Now the green blade rises, which is at 306 in Singing the Faith. Though we did not sing it this year Bruce played the tune at a service while the collection was being taken. John M.C.Crum, who wrote the words, was a high church Anglican author and theologian (1872-1958) who was inspired by two passages of scripture;

Speaking to his disciples Jesus says a grain of wheat remains no more than a single grain unless it is dropped into the ground and dies. If it does die then it produces many grains. (John 12 v 24. GNB) And Paul’s reference to these words in his writings about Resurrection in I Corinthians 15 and specifically verse 36. John Crum also uses the word ‘Love’ to be a metaphor for Jesus in the first verse of his hymn.

Now the green blade rises from the buried grain

Wheat that in the dark earth many days has lain ;

Love lives again, that with the dead has been:

Love is come again, like wheat that springs up green.

The Christian Easter season extends for seven weeks from Easter Sunday to Pentecost, it coincides with Spring, a time when the fields and our gardens change from dormancy into life. A time of new life for Christians arising from the death and resurrection of Jesus. The secular world takes up the theme in the giving and receiving of chocolate eggs which are symbols of a new life.

Verse three expresses this in its first two lines

Forth he came at Easter, like the risen grain,

He that has for three days in the grave had lain

The tune for this hymn/carol called Noel Nouvelet is taken from a 15th century French Christmas carol whose first two lines can be translated as

Noel nouvelet, sing we a new Noel

Thank we now our God , and of his goodness tell.

Later in the same edition of Songs of Praise I was introduced to a new Easter Hymn, which some of you may know and I was pleased to find that it is in STF at 309. It may surprise some of my regular readers that I liked this bright modern hymn, written by Stuart Townend and Keith Getty, which deserves its place in the new hymn book.

It begins joyously

See, what a morning, gloriously bright

With the dawning of hope in Jerusalem;

Folded the grave clothes, tomb filled with light

As the angels announce Christ is risen.

The second verse tells of his appearance to Mary Magdalene beginning

See Mary weeping, ’where is he laid?’

As in sorrow she turns from the empty tomb

Hears a voice speaking, calling her name

Its the master, the Lord, raised to life again !

In the final verse the author, Stuart Townend makes the assertion

And we are raised with him,

Death is dead, love has won, Christ has conquered

And we shall reign with him,

For he lives: Christ is risen from the dead.

The principal author, Stuart Townend, was born in 1963 the son of a Church of England minister and has built up a reputation as a leader of contempory worship and writer of religious hymns and songs. Eleven of his works can be found in Singing the Faith. He is perhaps best known for the hymn written with the Irish composer Keith Getty, In Christ alone, my hope is found. He frequently leads worship at the Evangelical Church of Christ the King in Brighton and is well known as a performer touring the country singing gospel songs. He has also participated in Spring Harvest as well as appearing on BBC Songs of Praise. Internet ‘Surfers’ can easily find versions of these two hymns sung by various artists and groups with ‘pop style backing’ by typing the first lines into Google or YouTube. It may surprise you but I do like, and value them, as hymns reminding us that ‘ Methodists sing their theology’

Allen Steel

* Apologies . I had intended to publish this article in the April Edition of Winchester News but family issues pushed it into this month.

Generous Father

Life is such a complex journey with its ups and downs. We can easily go off course, or even feel lost. But you gave us Jesus to be our way and our guide, and you promised never to leave us or forsake us. And when Jesus came back to you Lord. after His life on this earth, you promised even more wonderfully to send the Holy Spirit to live in our hearts, exchanging our fears and anxieties for your power and peace— a peace which we can’t explain, but can experience when we trust you.

Thank you Father, Son and Holy Spirit that you keep your promises, and that in your strength we can move forward, confident in your reality and sovereignty, one step at a time.

In Jesus name.

Amen

Holiday Club 2016

This year will be the 10^th Holiday Club.

It will take place during the week beginning Monday July 25^th.

As in previous years we will meet every morning from 10.00 – 12.45 with a full day, probably on Wednesday. There will be a service on Sunday 31^st July when the children will share the activities of the week with the congregation, parents and friends.

More details to follow……

If there are any adults willing to help during the week, even if only for one or two days, please speak to Laura Pease or Jan Dent.

Please come along to Winchester Road Methodist Church Ladies Pamper Night on Friday 13th May. All money raised will be split between their continued fundraising for the development of the Church premises and with Julie, a local mum. Julie was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer in 2012 which has since spread to her liver, lungs, bone and brain. This money will support her search for future new treatments which are unavailable on the NHS.

Thank you so much

Hazel Mathews

ANNUAL CHURCH MEETING

This will now be held on Sunday 15th May after the morning service.

Please do your best to attend as this is an important meeting in the life of the Church.

WANTED

Have you any oddments of pale pink wool? I need some to complete hand puppets and finger puppets for the Shoe Box Appeal please. I have plenty of bright colours just short of PINK!

Thank you.

Dorothy Clarke

WESLEY’S CHAPEL, MUSEUM AND HOUSE

If you are interested in Methodist Heritage and enjoy meeting people from all over the world would you consider volunteering a s a Heritage Steward?

Please speak to Allen Steel, Carole Merriman or Peter Richardson for more information as they already volunteer there.

The Work of Art

A wealthy man and his son loved to collect rare works of art. They had everything in their collection, from Picasso to Raphael. They would often sit together and admire the great works of art. When war broke out, the son went to fight. He was very courageous and died in battle while rescuing another soldier. The father was notified and grieved deeply for the loss of his only son.

About a month later, just before Christmas, there was a knock on the door. A young man stood on the doorstep with a large package in his hands. He said “Sir, you don’t know me, but I am the soldier for whom your son gave his life. He saved many lives that day, and he was carrying me to safety when a bullet struck him in the heart and he died instantly. He often talked about you, and your love of art.” The young man held out his package: “I know this isn’t much; I’m not really a great artist, but I think your son would have wanted you to have it.”

The father opened the package. It contained a portrait of his son, painted by the young man. He stared in awe at the way the soldier had captured the personality of his son in the painting. The father was so drawn to the eyes that his own eyes welled up with tears. He thanked the young man and offered to pay him for the picture. “Oh no sir, I could never repay what your son did for me; it’s a gift.”

The father hung the portrait over his mantelpiece. Every time visitors came to his home he took them to see the portrait of his son before he showed them any of the other great works of art he had collected. When the man died, it was announced that there would be a grand auction of his paintings. Many influential people gathered, excited to see the famous paintings and to have an opportunity to purchase one for their collections.

The day of the auction arrived. On the platform sat the painting of the son. The auctioneer banged his gavel: “We will start the bidding with this picture of the son. Who will bid for this picture?”… There was silence. Then a voice in the back of the room shouted, “We want to see the famous paintings – skip this one!”. But the auctioneer persisted: “Will somebody bid for this painting? Who will start the bidding: £100, £200?” Another voice angrily shouted: “We didn’t come to see this painting; we came to see the Van Gogh’s and the Rembrandts, get on with the real bids!”

But still the auctioneer persisted: “The son! The son! Who will take the son?”

Finally, a voice come from the very back of the room. It was the long-time gardener of the man and his son. “I’ll give you £10 for the painting….” Being a poor man, it was all he could afford.

“We have £10, who will bid £20?”, announced the auctioneer.

“Give it to him for £10 and let’s see the masters” came the reply.

The crowd was becoming angry. They didn’t want the picture of the son. They wanted the more worthy investments for their collections. The auctioneer banged his gavel. “Going once, going twice, Sold for £10!”. A man sitting on the second row shouted; “Now let’s get on with the collection!”

The auctioneer laid down his gavel, saying: “I’m sorry, the auction is over.”

“What about the paintings?” the audience shouted. “I am sorry” he replied. “When I was called to conduct this auction, I was told of a secret stipulation in the will. I was not to reveal that stipulation until this time. Only the painting of the son would be auctioned. Whoever bought that painting would inherit the entire estate, including all the paintings. The man who took the son gets everything!”

God gave his son two thousand years ago to die on the cross.

His message today is:

The Son, the Son, who will take the Son?

Greetings!
As you are or have been supportive of E4 Eat or Heat I would like to invite you to come and hear about the organisation; Christians Against Poverty. They provide support for people who find themselves in debt and they are also growing in providing other services such as Job Clubs, Money Management etc.

I’ve emailed the local clergy with this information so hopefully you will hear of this from your church leader but in case you don’t —–

It may be possible that as a community of churches we could get more involved in helping CAP with their mission. With this in mind we have a speaker coming to South Chingford Congregational Church on Wednesday 25th May at 12 noon to talk about the work that CAP do and to hopefully inspire us on being of further service in the local community.

I should be grateful if you could let me know whether or not you will be able to attend, please feel free to invite any other members of your church who may be interested in getting involved or would just like to find out more about the services of CAP.

Many thanks and every blessing

Kind regards

Julia Adams

07970 542 852

http://e4-eatorheat.webeden.co.uk

THE WAY I SEE IT : THREE IIN ONE AND ONE IN THREE

A story is told of a Jewish man who collapsed in the street with a heart attack.

A passing Roman Catholic priest rushed over and knelt beside him. “Would you like to have your sons forgiven?”, he asked.

The man nodded weakly. “Right”, said the priest. “Do you believe in God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit?”

The Jewish man rolled his eyes and moaned, “I’m dying, and he’s asking me riddles!”

Well it’s Trinity Sunday later this month, so if you go to church you may well hear the preacher trying to explain the riddle. Most church-goers know it’s part of orthodox Christian faith, and like singing about it in hymns, but haven’t any idea why it’s so important. Surely, they think, there’s only one God, so why make it so complicated? Yes it is complicated, but not incredible. Over the last century scientists have discovered that almost everything is more ‘complicated’ than we had thought. It seems, for instance, that pretty well nothing we know is a simple unity.

Think atoms, and then protons and neutrons. Energy and activity flow from dynamic relationships. So doesn’t it make sense that the Creator God is a Relationship—the source of all energy and activity—rather than a simple ‘unity’? Thought of like that, a God who is ‘Father’ (Source), Son (Action) and Spirit (Application) makes good sense. The Father made us, the Son loves us and the Spirit ‘sheds that love abroad in our hearts’. Makes sense to me.

FOREST RECORDED MUSIC SOCIETY

All Saints Church Hall

Church Avenue

Highams Park E4

If you enjoy listening to good music in the company

of like-minded people then this society is for you.

Contact Andrew Golds 8531 2938

V & A Books and Gifts 8531 5695

Finances

Monthly offertory collections for the beginning of 2016 have been as follows;

January £3,225.14

February £2,992.20

March £3,346.65

£135 was donated in memory of Peggy Stewart which has gone into the building fund.

Church anniversary donations stand at £7,036.58 at present but will go up as there are still donations to come from some groups. If you have not donated to the gift day yet and wish to do so the envelope can be put in the offertory at any service. All monies raised will go into the building fund.

Janice

TAKING JESUS

A Sunday School teacher asked her class why Joseph and Mary took Jesus with them to Jerusalem.

A small child replied, “They couldn’t get a baby sitter.”

Summer Afternoon of Music and Song

Sunday 5th June at 3pm

at Winchester Road

Tickets are just £7 ( includes refreshments)

from

Jan Dent, Pat Ovenden, Janice Pettit or Hazel Mathews

or telephone Pam Hayward 02085275435

featuring

Gatehouse School Choir (directed by Katherine Ward)

The Docklands Piano Trio

Rose Richardson and Laureen Reed

David Bhola, Fran Ward

Emily Manning, Gillian Farnfield

Stewart Yell, Elsa Chung

and Chris Carpenter

Come and join us for a great afternoon of entertainment!

All proceeds to the Building Fund

Dear All,

I’m sad to announce that just three months before her 100th birthday Irene Harman died on the 2th April in her North Chingford Care Home last night.

Although she was officially still a member at our Church in Jonathan’s time when both she and they were able, Colin and Patricia Bott used to ferry her to services at North Chingford.

Because she had been Church Secretary for many years at Mathews Memorial Church in Walthamstow before it closed, there will be a few people at Winchester Road who will have known her too.

There are no details, yet, of her funeral service.

Irene served the Methodist Church for many years the in the mission field in India and then once back in the UK worked for NCH (now Action For Children) placing children for adoption.

Hazel Mathews

The boss wondered why one of his most valued employees was absent but had not phoned in sick. So he dialled his employee’s home phone number and was greeted with a child’s whisper.

“Hello”

“Is your Daddy home?”

Small voice whispered again, “Yes he’s out in the garden.”

“May I talk with him?”

Small voice whispered again “No.”

So the boss asked “Is your |Mummy there?”

“Yes she’s in the garden too”.”

“May I speak with her?”

Again the whispered answer, “No.”

Hoping there was someone with whom he could leave a message, the boss asked , “Is there anyone else there?”

“Yes” whispered the child “a policeman”.

Wondering what a policemen would be doing at his employee’s home, he asked, “May I speak with the policeman?”

“No, he’s busy” whispered the child.

“Busy doing what?”

“Talking to Mummy and Daddy and the police dog men.”

Growing more worried, as he heard a loud noise in the background, the boss asked, “What is that noise/”

“It’s a helicopter” answered the whispering child.

“What is going on there?”, demanded the boss, now truly apprehensive.

“The search team just landed a helicopter”

“A search team?” said the boss.. “What are they searching for?”

Still whispering, the young voice replied, with a muffled giggle….

“ME”

Introducing the Daniels…

I’m Jonathan… as much as I would like to claim my roots were in a galaxy far, far away, visible only by telescope or accessible by TARDIS, I was born and brought up in Stafford. (Janet claims this is far, far away…). I attended Church Lane Evangelical Church with my parents and my sister. My Mum was very active in the Guides and was District Commissioner for some years. My Dad worked for Ever Ready and, in his spare time, was a Stafford Rangers supporter and an active youth worker. After A Levels, I studied Politics at Birmingham University. I graduated and applied for a job in the civil service – and have worked in the Department for Education since then apart from a 6 year secondment to Waltham Forest Education Department. I have had a number of roles and responsibilities, including Bill Work – supporting legislation as it is debated in the Houses of Commons and Lords – working in the office of the Minister for Education and, more recently (and controversially!) working on the current ‘Academies’ policy. I have had quite a varied faith journey, after starting at Mum’s church as a teenager I became an Elim Pentecostalist, University then saw a big gear change as I ended up being baptised and confirmed as an Anglican in a rare full immersion conducted by a Bishop! After moving to London, I attended St James’ Piccadilly for a number of years before coming to worship at St Mary’s Woodford and finally arriving at Winchester Road about 6 years ago!

I’m Janet and – I was born in the sunny Mediterranean (Cyprus, my father was in the RAF) but brought up in sunny but bracing East Anglia, in Felixstowe. I am ‘C of E’ by family tradition, attending first St Philip’s Church, where I was baptised, and then St Mary’s Church, where we were lucky enough to get married. My parents married there, too. For most of my childhood I attended Sunday School at the United Reformed Church, with my best friend, also attending the Youth Club there. Keeping a foot in each camp, I simultaneously attended ‘Discoverers’, on a Wednesday evening at St Philip’s. After A Levels, I studied History at Cardiff University and graduated in 1991. I was unsure about what I wanted to do as a career and applied to the Civil Service as a ‘temporary’ fill in. I worked at the Department for Education for 13 years and met Jonathan at work. I was on secondment to Hackney Local Education Authority when I had Laura; and returned there part time until I had Thomas. After my career break, I decided I didn’t want to go back to the rat race and, following a stint as Chair of the Parent Committee, I took on a staff role at Handsworth Pre-School. I’m now Deputy Leader and Special Needs Co-Ordinator at Pre-School and enjoy my work very much. I still haven’t really decided what I want to do when I grow up… In my spare time, I knit and enjoy sewing and other craft, reading, baking or watching a movie. Out and about I’m particularly fond of the ballet (and opera if allowed by the family), art and textile design.

I’m Laura- and I’m always dancing! I was born in Whipps Cross Hospital, so I haven’t travelled far. I am now in Year 9 at Highams Park School. I started dancing when I was 4 years old and I haven’t stopped since. I take ballet and modern classes at Vestry School of Dance. I have been lucky enough to be chosen as amember of the ‘young ensemble’ in the Hackney Panto for the last two years (and hope to do it again this year, nudge, nudge, wink, wink, Mum…). When I’m not dancing, I enjoy Guides (as I did Rainbows and Brownies) and had the time of my life last year when I went to Switzerland. At the moment, I would like to be a teacher when I am older.

I’m Thomas – I was born at Whipps Cross Hospital on 21^st June 2005. I am in Year 6 at Handsworth Primary School. I will be going up to Highams Park School in September. I like teasing Laura and talking to Dad about the next rollercoaster we are going to ride. I have decided to try to go to at least one theme park a year. My favourite rollercoaster that I have been on is Nemesis and I would really like to ride Shambhala (in Barcelona) one day. I am also learning to play the piano – Jonathan Pease is teaching me. Over Easter I performed in my first Gang Show and had lots of fun!

So, how did we come to love Winchester Road? When the children were ‘wee’ they made the most of Gym Tots and Messy Play and we were aware of all the services provided by the Church. We were attending St Mary’s Church in Woodford at the time, and both the children were baptised there. As first Laura and then Thomas joined the Uniformed Organisations, we attended the Church Parades. We were welcomed into the Church and enjoyed the family friendly, warm and inclusive atmosphere. So we attended more regularly and the rest, as they say, is history. We remain deeply impressed by the dedication of all the people who give their time to the Uniformed Organisations – both with Jonathan’s family history and the children’s current involvement in Guides and Scouts, we have a lot to say ‘thank you’ for!

APRIL 2016 NEWSLETTER

A letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

Birthdays are special occasions, even if as we age, they seem to come round quicker and we don’t always appreciate the rise in figures!

This month sees the 90^th birthday of our Queen, and to mark the occasion there will be special celebrations on 21^st April. Further celebrations will happen on June 12^th when the Queen celebrates her official birthday.

Although our birthday festivities may not be as grand as those experienced by the Queen, we do not have to share our birthday with others, whereas the Queen is willing to spend the day in her official capacity as we celebrate with her.

When she was born, Princess Elizabeth was not destined to be the Queen of our country, but following the abdication of King Edward VII, the Queen’s Father, George VI came to the throne and our Queen was his successor.

Not everything that we plan in life turns out as we expect or want it to. Having watched Jesus die on the cross, the disciples thought that that was the end of Jesus’ mission. But in fact, the resurrection paved the way for the early church to come into being. The followers of Jesus could not have predicted that this was going to happen but shared the joy of the risen Lord until his ascension to heaven forty days later. This year Ascension Day is 5^th May.

Ten days later, we celebrate Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit, also known as the birthday of the church. This year Pentecost is on 15^th May and coincides with Christian Aid, Week, so a double reason to celebrate.

As we consider our birthdays, we can think about our calling in life and perhaps it is time to ask God if there are any other ways that we can serve him, with the gifts that we were born with, and those that we have acquired, and share more of our lives with him.

With greetings for the Easter season,

Hilary

FROM RACHEL LAMPARD

Steve and I recently visited Pakistan as guests of the Church of Pakistan. The visit was partly to broaden my understanding of the world church before I begin my year of office as Vice President designate of the Methodist Conference, and partly to strengthen the partnership between the Church of Pakistan and the British Methodist Church. I can’t do justice to our visit in a few words here, but we wanted to share some of our impressions of the incredible people that we met.

The Church of Pakistan is a united church, created when the United Methodist Church, the Anglicans, the Church of Scotland and the Lutherans joined together in the 1970s. The Methodist Church in Britain supports the work of Church of Pakistan in a number of ways, including financially.

Christians are a tiny minority in Pakistan – an estimated 1.6% of a population of almost 200 million – where the vast majority of people are Muslim, and the dominance of Islam is reinforced by the state. Christians have a very difficult time. There are horrific outbreaks of violence. Just last year two suicide bombers targeted churches in Lahore, killing worshippers and shoppers. Schools and churches are all guarded by armed guards and eight foot high walls topped with razor wire. And on top of this Christians are often among the poorest in society, with the least opportunities, and offered only the most menial jobs.

I saw worse poverty than I have ever seen before. In the villages around Lahore families work at making bricks by hand. This is a hard, back-breaking, unhealthy and dangerous life, where people, including the children, breathe in the brick dust and noxious gases all the time. Rarely do they have clean water. The families are bonded labour, indebted to the brick kiln owners for their entire lives and unable to escape. Most of the families working in these brick kilns are Christians. We visited a kiln and spoke with some of the workers who explained the process. The children there were no older than our own, and it was heart-breaking to finally share smiles with them, only then to leave them to their desperate future.

But the Church of Pakistan, supported by its partners, is trying to help. We visited a medical centre serving the brick kilns, which provides the most basic care – vitamins for malnutrition, medicine for stomach upsets, emergency first aid, and physiotherapy for people affected by strokes and polio. It didn’t sound much, but for some of the families and children it would have made the difference between life and death. We also visited schools which have been supported by the Methodist Church in Britain. They are still lacking in many books or resources, but they now have the renewed classrooms and security features which mean they can remain open and continue to offer an education.

Pakistan has a Blasphemy Law which outlaws anything considered to be blaspheming against the Quran. If a person is accused of blasphemy this spreads like wildfire around a local community, and often before any legal process can take place the person accused is chased out of their village or killed. The law is abused, with many accusations of blasphemy coming from people who have property disputes with those they are accusing. Accusations of blasphemy are being used as a way of getting hold of someone else’s property, but they have deadly consequences for those accused.

Given the difficult situation facing Christians in Pakistan, I wouldn’t have been surprised either if people slipped away from practicing the faith or turned their back on Muslims. But we visited churches which were packed, despite people having to pass through armed checkpoints in order to be able to attend. And I witnessed an incredible commitment to interfaith working – from all parts of the community. I spoke at interfaith events in Multan and Lahore, attended by senior Muslims clerics and prominent people in society. Christians and Muslims at these events recognised the struggle, but were unwavering in their commitment to work together for peace.

One Mufti spoke of how when he was attending an event at the Cathedral in Lahore the time for Muslim prayers came. He and his fellow Muslims were getting nervous, so the Bishop invited them to say their prayers there and then, in the Cathedral. This is not something that the Methodist Church in Britain would even be able to contemplate yet. I met with Muslim leaders who had spoken out in the media against the murder of people who defend others against blasphemy, and faced violence and death threats as a result. And we met a rock band, supported by the Diocese of Raiwind, with Christian, Muslim, Sikh and Hindu members. Young people playing and singing Sufi poetry together. Interfaith relations in action.

This was an incredible visit, difficult and inspiring at once. Steve and I were overwhelmed by the welcome we received from so many people, and the extravagant generosity and hospitality. We have had many of our preconceptions about Pakistan turned on their head. And we are more committed than ever to work for interfaith peace in this country and around the world.

The hard labour and desperate conditions of the brick kilns

Rachel addressing an inter-faith meeting in Multan

International Women’s Day celebrations in Stuntzabad

Visiting the church school in Khanewal

Christmas Shoeboxes.

We are having a change this year and are sending the shoe boxes to Team4u organisation. They will be going to the poorest countries in Eastern Europe. There will be slight changes – they do family boxes, but I said as we are coming newly into it we will stay with the children’s shoeboxes. The age range will not include the 2-4yr olds but will be 5-9 and 10-14. Shampoo etc can be included if wrapped, also playing cards and chocolate if not out of date by next March – buy it later, its the same with sweets. All the other items are the same, cuddly toys, not home knitted, gloves, scarves, hats, pens, pencils, exercise books, cars, not very young cars i.e Noddy cars and push-alongs, boys toys like noisy things, whistles, musical instruments for boys and girls, pretty things for hair and jewellery for girls. Colouring books for older children and coloured pencils or even a small box of paints and brush. Soap, flannel, toothbrush and toothpaste.

Things not to be included: guns, war planes, or any war related items, scissors or sharp instruments, bubbles, food, other than sweets, clothes other than those above. I still need to find out about religious items, probably not.

Please put any items in the big tub at the back of the church, also of course shoe boxes.

Sylvia Dixon

METHODIST WOMEN IN BRITAIN (MWiB) for short

With Easter being early this year this should have been in last months newsletter.

The Easter Offering Envelopes will be available on Easter Sunday and the following week. They can be put in with the weekly offering using the envelopes provided.

As we no longer have home collecting boxes for Home Missions or World Mission this is an opportunity to support our work of Mission in the World.

Mary Burgoine

BAPTISM

On Sunday 6th March three of the grandchildren of Pam and Graham Palmer were baptised surrounded by their friends and family.

Amelie May and Benjamin Edward Nicholas, daughter and son of Natalie and Nick Sutton were baptised by their grandfather the Rev Sutton. He also baptised Esther Lily the daughter of Beki and Chris Payne.

Pam, Graham and family would like to thank Hilary and everyone who helped to make the Baptism such a wonderful occasion.

Christian Aid week 2016 is upon us again from 15th-21st May. This year there will be more door to door collections and also a ‘big breakkie’ on 15th May from 9.30am.

If you would like to be a door to door collector, money counter or help with the ‘big brekkie’ then let me or Pat Ovenden know.

Susan Knights

PRAYER FOR EVERY DAY AFTER EASTER

Living, Almighty God,

Thank you that by your Spirit living in me, made possible by the life, death and resurrection and ascension of Jesus, you give me all I need.

Like Peter, you forgive and re-commission me. Like Thomas, you meet me in ways tailor made for me.

Lord, thank you for the daily personal “nudges” that assure me of your reality, your presence in my life, just when I need so much to know you are here.

Thank you that we are Easter People every day, because of Jesus, and in His name we pray.

Amen

Daphne Kitching

AFTERNOON TEA

What seemed like a good idea, when planned over a Chicken Korma with Mandy Yarnall, became more than a reality when 62-5 people said they wanted to come to the afternoon tea we were organising to raise money for Waltham Forest Gang Show. So, first things first, find ways to raise as much money as possible and this had to mean that as much money as possible needed to be saved on purchasing. Working in hospitality, I knew the Head Chef where I worked (Royal Air Force Club) might be able to help and he came up trumps in getting 2 of our suppliers to donate the strawberry jam and clotted cream (2 vital ingredients). The generosity of people who made the cakes and scones for nothing, the loan of the bunting, the loan of the tablecloths from work and the free venue meant that costs were low.

The day of the tea dawned and by 10am, Mandy and I were at Janice’s house ready to make sandwiches. Once these were finished, it was all hands on deck at the hall to get set up. The bunting really helped set off the room and the tables looked lovely. Almost everyone who had booked arrived and the waitresses in their little white aprons (thanks Pam Hayward) served the tea, sandwiches, home made cakes and scones. Everyone was delighted with the food and what struck me most was the wonderful atmosphere as everyone enjoyed their cups of tea and a chat. A raffle helped to raise some money and we were delighted that the grand total raised was £597. A lot of hard work but a very rewarding afternoon.

One of our guests on her way out asked me when we were doing another one? My reply, with aching feet, was I’m not sure. The next day, I suggested to Mandy that perhaps we could do one in October to raise money towards Winchester Road Pantomime. So, if you were able to come this time, tell your friends to book early when we announce the date as I am sure it will be popular!! My thanks go to those who helped in any way – too many to mention individually but you all know who you are.

Kathryn Cooper

At the end of February Joanne Lazarus from Haven House shared worship with us. A total of £787 was donated to Haven House from the congregation.

Susan Knights

CONFIRMATION OF NEW MEMBERS

On Sunday 20th March, we welcomed and received into Church membership two of our young people at Winchester. Millie Evans and Lindelwa Moyo were surrounded by friends and family at this wonderful, moving service.

At the service, a gift was presented by the Biscuit and Cookie Clubs, to Rachel Lampard and Steve Walker, who are standing down from their involvement with the Young People, as Rachel will shortly be inducted as the Vice President of the Conference.

SPONSORED SWIM

Many thanks for all the money that has been given for the Mercy Ships in response to my sponsored swim,.

I have been overwhelmed with the amount I have collected. I did think in my mind ‘It would be nice if I could reach £500’ in fact I have received £1,069.

Great!

Thank you.

Sylvia Dixon.

The 7 Ups!

Wake Up!!

Decide to have a good day.

“This is the day the Lord hath made;

let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Psalms 118: 24

Dress Up!!

The best way to dress up is to put on a smile.

A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

“The Lord does not look at the things man looks at.

Man looks at outward appearance,

but the Lord looks at the heart.”

I Samuel 16: 7

Shut Up!!

Say nice things and learn to listen.

God gave us two ears and one mouth,

so He must have meant for us to do

twice as much listening as talking.

“He who guards his lips guards his soul.”

Proverbs 13: 3

Stand Up!!

. . . for what you believe in.

Stand for something or you will fall for anything.

“Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time,

we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good…”

Galatians 6: 9-10

Look Up!!

. . . to the Lord.

“I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me”.

Philippians 4: 13

Reach Up!!

. . . for something higher.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

and lean not unto your own understanding.

In all your ways, acknowledge Him,

and He will direct your path.”

Proverbs 3: 5-6

Lift Up!!

. . . your Prayers.

“Do not worry about anything; instead

PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING.”

Philippians 4: 6

Church Council February 2016

To allow time for discussion reports from church committees were circulated in advance to enable council members to consider them in advance, saving time and making discussion more meaningful.

Outreach.

Sufficient volunteers have come forward to allow regular Friday Coffee Mornings to be held from March to June. Sylvia Dixon is willing to continue filling Christmas shoe boxes but asks people to cover them before giving them to her, she has wrapping paper and glue sticks available. This year our gifts will be channelled through a different organisation, T4U. Forthcoming special services and Easter arrangements were listed. Amongst the other events planned were an Auction Supper (May 7th), Concert (June 5th), Coffee Mornings (May 21st and July 9th), Pamper Evening (May 13th) and Cream Tea (June 11th). Some good news, two parents are to become warranted Cub Leaders. The Holiday Club would be held in the summer with the date to be confirmed. Arrangements were in place to replace Rachel and Steve in their leadership of the Biscuit Club. Two of our young people will be Confirmed into Membership on Palm Sunday.

Property.

In his report Roger Pettit listed the minor works completed and pending plus issues with the gas supply and the heating pumps. The Hub front door is now fitted with a new lock and the correct closing procedure must be followed when locking up. The Traidcraft Cupboard has been installed and a bookstall will follow shortly. A cross will be made using wood from former church pews. The Quinquennial Inspection Report showed that the inspector was satisfied with the overall state of our buildings, though some work to deal with slates and gutters needs be done. The programme of redecoration will continue. The final bill for building work (Hub, new boilers, gas supply etc.) has now been received totalling £436,000.

Finance

The Treasurer reported that the overall position was healthy and that plans to raise the money to repay loans made by members were on track. A number of charity donations were agreed with a donation to the ’Mercy Ships’ being added to our usual list of good causes. A modest increase in the hourly letting rates for the rooms/halls was agreed.

Churches Together in Highams Park.

Thanks were expressed for the Bereavement Service and the United Advent Service. A CTiHP picnic will be held in Ridgeway Park from 1pm on Sunday 26th June. Two Lenten Groups will meet this year, the details are

on the notice board. On Good Friday there will be a Walk of Witness leaving the Library at 10.30 am and Winchester Road has extended an invitation to all to join with us in a Service commencing at 11.30. The Women’s World Day of Prayer will be at Malvern Avenue URC. (March 4th) and the Care Commissioning Service will be at the URC on Sunday June 19th at 6pm

Stewards Report.

Mary-Rose French remembered the passing of Margaret Pettit and Peggy Stewart and their contribution to church life. She had received good comments concerning the Christmas Services and Christmas Inn. Sufficient volunteers will enable a Coffee Morning to be held in the Hub between 10.30 and 12.30 on Fridays for a trial period. Foodbank boxes would be put at the back of the Church, in the Hub and by the stairs at the Wickham Road entrance.

Circuit Matters.

Dallion Roye updated the Council about the work being undertaken by the Circuit.

Issues raised by members.

Discussion about the role of Worship Leaders who are playing an increasing role in Sunday Services replacing the previous use of ‘Local Arrangements.’ It was suggested the Church purchase a Defribulator for use by those using the premises, and possibly the local community. The cost and training requirements would be explored. Moving the internet router to a position where WiFi could be accessed from the church will be tried. The rules around tidying up by those using our premises were clarified. A volunteer to organise Jumble Sales is needed when Sarah Hayward gives up the task. The main Notice Board was for church related notices and a note to this effect would be displayed. It was agreed that Winchester Road would participate in the Christian Aid door to door collection. It was suggested that other churches and organisations be invited to join the Carol Singing at the station this year.

Debbie, Cation and Eris Crawford would like to thank everyone for their prayers, thoughts and kind words on the passing of their much loved Mum and Nan.

Your support at this difficult time has been of tremendous help.

HELP FROM GOD

A woman found herself in trouble. Her business had gone bust and she’s in serious financial trouble. She is so desperate she decides to ask God for help. She begins to pray…”God, please help me. I’ve lost my business and if I don’t get some money, I’m going to lose my house as well. Please let me win the Lottery”.

Lottery night comes and somebody wins it.

Edna again prays…”God, please let me win the Lottery! I’ve lost my business, my house and I’m going to lose my car as well”.

Lottery night comes and Edna still has no luck.

Once again she prays, “My God, why have you forsaken me? I’ve lost my business, my house and my car. My children are starving. I don’t often ask you for help and I have always been a good servant to you. PLEASE, just let me win the Lottery this one time so I can get my life back in order”.

Suddenly there is this blinding flash of light as the heavens open and Edna is confronted by the voice of God himself:

“Edna, meet me halfway on this. Buy a ticket!”

HOW 71 YEARS AT WINCHESTER HAVE INFLUENCED MY LIFE

FROM SHIRLEY SEAMAN

My parents came to live in East View in 1935. They were the first people in their families to buy a house. I was born in 1938. During the war my father was in the Navy and, just after my sister Janet was born in 1943, he was sent to India for three years. My sister Pam was born in 1947 after the war. Nobody travelled far when I was growing up and so home, school and Winchester Road Church were the main influences in my life. When my sisters were old enough they came with me.

SUNDAY SCHOOL

Initially, I went to a morning Sunday School at St. Anne’s Church until a neighbour told my mother about a very good afternoon Sunday School at Winchester Road Church. I went along with my friend Margaret and I am pleased that we both continued doing most things at this Church together until we left school. I was about seven when I came to Winchester and was soon settled in the Primary Department. I found it to be a lively and happy place, everyone seemed to be smiling, and I looked forward to Sunday afternoons. Later there was a morning school as well where we sang choruses, listened to a talk and then went into Church for a short while. At this time Mrs. Dankworth produced some memorable operettas for the Sunday School children and we had great fun performing and being dressed for our parts. These times were particularly special after the austerity of the war years. Sunday School Anniversary was always a big week-end in the Church calendar. On the Saturday each department performed on the stage and we formed a choir for the two Sunday services. Everyone wore a buttonhole to celebrate the occasion. I soon became a JMA collector and this was a great opportunity to make contact with most of the Sunday School teachers! We also had the chance to study for the annual scripture exams. I progressed through the Sunday School until I became a Sunday school teacher in the Primary Department. We were expected to attend the weekly training class to prepare for the following Sunday. These study and discussion sessions helped us to focus more on our Christian faith. We also were expected to take a turn in leading the opening devotional, quite daunting when you are fifteen years old. The Sunday school grew and by the 1960’s there were over 150 children attending.

UNIFORMED ORGANISATIONS

I joined the church Brownie Pack, 15^th Walthamstow, when I was eight and enjoyed learning new things there .As a Guide I helped on Brownie night and discovered that I liked being with children. I became a Guide at twelve and feel that the friendships, experiences and challenges there have been one of the major influences in my life. One of the badges I gained helped to shape my future career. I had been told by someone in my school Guide Company that it was easy to get a Friend to the Deaf badge as you only had to know the alphabet devised for deaf people! The lady testing us for this badge had different ideas and rightly wanted to ensure that we really understood about deafness. The three of us who gained this badge visited a club for deaf people for a number of weeks and answered her many questions. I remember being asked to visit a lady who lived alone in Highams Park who was deaf and partially sighted. communicated with her by writing on her arm. I had to let myself in with a key hanging inside the letter box and I was always worried about startling her.

EMPLOYMENT

At sixteen, having taken my O-levels, I knew that I needed to leave school and find a job. I was working in an office but after a while I felt I wanted to go to Teacher Training College and qualify as a teacher for the deaf. I had visited the school for the deaf in Hale End Road and remember clearly the head teacher telling the children about the trolley buses in Forest Road and how they had to hold on to the overhead wires to move and how the children needed to hold onto God to help them in their lives. I found an excellent training college in Berkshire which accepted three years’ work experience, plus one A level gained at evening classes, instead of a sixth form education. I did my final teaching practice at a school which had provision for children with hearing problems to learn in their own unit but they were also able to join in with their peer group for activities like PE, music, drama and art and at lunch and play times. This was quite a revolutionary idea at the time as residential education had been the only option for these children. I was advised to get some experience before considering special education which I did. After my children started school I knew that I could only qualify as a teacher of the deaf by spending a year in Manchester which was not practical. As I had been away from teaching for ten years I went to Joseph Clarke School for the visually impaired as a volunteer. There were no registered blind children at the school at this time and I didn’t need an additional qualification. Within a year I was offered a part-time job. It was a new post using an assessment called Look and Think that had been produced by Birmingham University to help children make the best use of their limited vision and to try and make sense of the world around them. It was rewarding to work with the children and see their understanding and confidence improve. A check of the car park on my way into school also indicated which class, from 3-16, I might be covering that day! I was involved with many out of school activities with the children, including visits, a weekly club at Ive Farm, swimming, camping at Suntrap and an adventure holiday together with Handsworth School. Later when there was a recognised qualification for teachers I became involved as Look and Think was included as part of a module. After seventeen years enjoying working with the children at the school I was aware that my role was changing. Many children with some useful vision were now being taught in mainstream schools due great improvements in the relevant technology and peripatetic teaching support. At this time were no children in the nursery who would be needing my help and family responsibilities were increasing so I decided to retire.

MARRIAGE AND FAMILY

Many young people attended the Church Youth Club and joined in its various activities. I ran the Netball team for a while and at one stage we were representing Walthamstow in matches. To be a member of the club it wasn’t necessary to attend church. This arrangement brought many young people into the church. Most of my friends at church were about my age but Ken was in an older group. I was aware of his presence but it wasn’t until he asked me to hold his sunglasses during a tennis match when I was seventeen that he really noticed me. A devious way to ensure that I didn’t disappear! At this time Ken was on leave from his National Service. Two years later we became engaged before I went off to teacher training college.

ROLES IN THE CHURCH

Writing this article gave me pleasure in thinking about what coming to Winchester means to me, although rather difficult to précis, but what did surprise me was how many times I had been involved with new initiatives. I like to think I was asked because of my enthusiasm and not because I didn’t appear to be doing much in the life of the church at the time! I was involved with the Badminton Club, Mum’s Club, Coffee Corner, Amnesty International, Holiday Club and as Pastoral Secretary. Right from the beginning Winchester has challenged me to do some things I didn’t know I could achieve and I am grateful to those people who supported me at these times. (Please note I still can’t act or sing).

LAST THOUGHTS

Occasionally I sit at the back of the church and remember all the years that have gone by and the many people who have influenced my life and am thankful. Even more often I look at the faces of the young people in our growing Young Church and pray that we at Winchester are providing a good influence for them.

Shirley Seaman

MARCH 2016 NEWSLETTER

A letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,
We are currently in the season of Lent, the time of year when the days are getting longer and signs of Spring are appearing. Our journey is taking us towards Easter, the highest point in the Christian year. But in order to celebrate Easter we go through a period of looking at Jesus’ life and of what took him to the cross.

Lent is also a time when we can take stock of our lives, looking at what aspects of our daily living we could do without, clearing out bad habits that have accumulated and giving our thinking a spring clean. You may have chosen to support the local Foodbank during Lent or purchase a Fairtrade product each week to support farmers in poorer countries, enabling them to receive a fair price for their labour. Perhaps you have decided to review your finances and make changes to how you spend your money. Every year sees an increase in gym membership or the clubs that we belong to. In the church, our bills rise each year, and we have increased expenditure to meet. This may be the time to think again about our offering to the church and whether it could be adjusted.

There is a saying, ‘No pain, no gain’ which can be applied to many aspects of life. We hope that our school years will enable us to find appropriate work for the future. The effort that we put into something, should help us to achieve. Very little is realised in this life without substantial input on our part.

As Easter approaches, we are reminded that Jesus did not shirk the cross. He knew that a painful death lay ahead of him but he resolutely accepted the path his life would take. His dying must have been excruciating for him, but it was not without reason. Had Jesus not died on the cross for our sins, he would not have been raised from the dead. Although we remember his death with sadness, we can celebrate the resurrection with great joy. Without the pain that Jesus suffered, we would not have gained the victory of the cross and the glory of the resurrection.

At this time of year, we remember all that Jesus gave on our behalf and of all that he won for us at the cross. He gave everything he had for us. This Easter, think about what more you could do for him.

With Easter blessings,

Hilary

RE-LIVING GETHSEMANE

Such a short time in Gethsemane
but it will stay in my heart forever.

The rock, it was strong, it was white, it was hot in the sun.
But that Night long ago, in the moonlight it was cool,
supporting the white-hot agony of the Lord.

The flowers spoke the story of His life,
the small white blooms, Star of Bethlehem, the birth,
but there was also garlic, a herb of bitterness,
and the deep pasque flower, blood – life ended…
but no, the flowers will return year after year
to renew the life of Christ in us.

Dark olive tress, eternal, so gnarled,
are they beautiful?
Beauty within: the grain of the wood,
the purity of the oil, the taste of the fruit.

Agony, bitterness, death, life, beauty, eternity,
Its is all told- at Gethsemane.

Pat Andrews
(written after the Pilgrimage to the Holy Land,
led by Rev Elizabeth Rundle, Easter 2005

Resurgam!

March 20th and 21st mark the 75th anniversary of one of the most intensive air raids any British city has ever endured. During those two successive nights the German Luftwaffe launched mass destruction on the city centre of Plymouth, almost wiping it out.

Churches, public buildings like the Guildhall, schools and the large city centre stores including John Yeo’s where my mother had worked until three years previously were all destroyed or damaged beyond use. The Germans attacked with incendiary bombs then sent in a wave of high explosive bombs, some with delayed action mechanisms to maximise the damage.

These were not the first attacks on the city which began in July 3 1940 with a one off raid which cost the lives of three people on the Swilly estate. The raids grew in frequency and intensity during the autumn of 1940 but their targets were either random or aimed at naval facilities.

Nothing on this scale had happened before nor had adequate air raid precautions been considered necessary by either the city council or central government. This neglect was made worse as Plymouth was seen as beyond the range of enemy aircraft even after the surrender of France, which brought the bombers nearer. Indeed well into 1941, Plymouth was an area for evacuation not from it.

The attacks of March were followed by similar ones on April 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 28th and 29th. The later raids hit hard the naval suburb of Devonport and the neighbouring Cornish towns of Torpoint and Saltash, the latter where both sets of my grandparents lived.

336 civilians were killed in the March raids and the total for these Spring 1941 attacks was 926. The actual number was probably far higher as it is known that the naval barracks were heavily bombed, but to this day the casualty figures of service personnel have never been released.

In total Plymouth suffered 59 raids in WW2 with the last two in May 1944 as troops gathered in readiness for D Day. The total damage was 1172 civilians killed, 4448 injured and 20,000 properties of all types destroyed or damaged which made Plymouth the third most bombed city after London and Hull.
In the face of such destruction many people deserted the city on a permanent or overnight basis, travelling by train to the surrounding countryside of Cornwall or Devon. The stoicism of those who stayed has become legendary, although like all legends sometimes the facts are neglected.

Symbolic of this ‘blitz spirit’ is the story of one building – St. Andrews Church. This church claims its origins back to a wooden Saxon church built on the landward side of the Hoe in the eighth century. The first stone church was built in
the twelfth century when the only settlement was a small fishing port in Sutton harbour. As Plymouth grew so did the church and took on its present external form by 1500. Amongst those who visited it was John Wesley in 1775.
St. Andrews was regarded as the mother church for Plymouth. It was severely damaged in the raid of March 20th and the second raid on the following night finished the destruction. Its walls and tower remained, echoing the civic motto ‘Turris Fortissima, Nomen Jehovah’ -‘A very strong tower is the name of God’. Other city centre churches, including Charles Church, St. James the Less and the Methodist church in King Street and also that at Ker Street, Devonport, were destroyed in these raids.

In the face of such destruction one woman, a local kindergarden headmistress, took some damaged wood from the ruins and wrote on it in chalk the Latin word ‘Resurgam’- ‘I will rise again’- which she nailed to the lintels.

This action symbolised the defiance of a city which refused to die. The ruins were cleared and made safe within two years. A garden church with flower beds was laid out in the shell of the church where open air services were held for some years.

In 1949 the monumental decision was made that the church should be rebuilt as part of the new city built over the 1950s. This was completed in 1957 with the word Resurgam carved over one of its entrance doors. Today St. Andrews stands out more clearly in the present city centre than it ever did in the cluttered Victorian city in which my mother worked. Charles Church as a ruin serves as a memorial to the civilian dead of Plymouth, although its impact is reduced by being now sited on a traffic roundabout.

St. Andrew’s story 75 years on, seems an appropriate message of persistence and hope for this month as we think on the meaning of Lent, the Passion of Christ and the Resurrection. Resurgam! … I will rise again!

Peter Dawe

Waltham Forest Scouts and Guides
Present
Gang Show 2016

Come and enjoy two hours of entertainment with a cast of 90 young people at Chingford Assembly Hall,
Station Road E4 7EN

On Thursday 7th, Friday 8th and Saturday 9th April
Performances at 7.30pm and Saturday Matinee at 2.30pm
A choice of tier or floor seating

Special ticket prices for uniform and senior citizens
For booking and tickets Telephone 07538314415 before 10pm

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Gang Show Swing Evening
with the John Ongom Big Band

Swing to samba, Basie to Bassey
With 17 piece band with 2 singers
Saturday 12th March at Woodside Primary Academy,
Wood Street E17
First set starts at 8pm (doors open at 7.15pm)
Ticket price of £10 includes cold buffet
Bring Your Own Drinks
Tickets must be purchased in advance for catering purposes
Contact Mike Hayward 0208 5275435 for
further information
Don’t delay! Order your tickets for both events

Jesus in the wilderness

On the first Sunday in Lent the oldest group in Cookie Club (aged 8-10) read and discussed the story of Jesus being tempted in the wilderness from Luke 4 1-13. Here are some of the thoughts we shared (with thanks to Thomas for acting as the scribe).

What does the story mean?
• We shouldn’t give into temptation
• It tells us about Lent and what it means
• Every time you get tempted you should be true to yourself
• Refuse the bad choice, even though it feels good
• Don’t test the power of God

How can you tell what is a good choice and what is a bad choice?
• The effect on other people – e.g. if you use all the Lego you will be happy but other people won’t, if you leave things on the floor someone else has to pick them up
• Think of the consequences – e.g. if you eat too much it won’t be good for you
• Talk to someone to ask advice
• Think about who you can believe – e.g. don’t get led astray by other people encouraging you to do the wrong thing

Here are some examples of good and bad choices we can make in life

Good choices – leave some sweets for other people, help someone who is injured, tidy my room, have a shower, switch the lights off, come into dinner first time I’m asked, clear my plate after dinner, help people, fight global warming, be nice to people, help someone when they are sad.

Bad choices – eat all the sweets, ignore someone who is injured, leave my Mum to tidy my room, leave all the lights on, eat all the food, don’t shower or brush my teeth (and get stinky), don’t pick up the tissues that I dropped, be rude, drop litter, hurt someone, ignore what Jesus and God want.
An Invitation to The Mother’s Union 60th Anniversary at All Saints Church, Castle Avenue, E4, on Saturday 14th May . Communion Service at 2.30 pm. Followed by Afternoon Tea in the Hall.

Please advise Mary Burgoine if you wish to attend, as numbers will be needed for catering purposes, by 1st May. Mary will pass on the numbers, to the relevant person at All Saints.

BAPTISM

On Sunday 21st February we welcomed Dylan James, son of Sarah and Simon Hayward into our Church family. He was surrounded by his family and friends.

It was a very happy occasion and we look forward to watching him grow up within the Church.

We are sorry to announce that Peggy Stewart died on the 14th February. She will be remembered by the older members in our congregation.

Her funeral is on 9th March at 11.00am at the City of London Crematorium.

There will be a Thanksgiving Service for Peggy here at Winchester at 12,30pm, followed by refreshments.

Donations in Peggy’s memory can be made either to the Alzheimer’s Society or Winchester Road Methodist Church. Please send any cheques to T. Pennack and Sons Funeral Directors, 1 Maldon Road, Chelmsford, CM2 7DW.

The Moyos – Bulawayo(Main Street Church) to Winchester Road

The Moyos, that is Dumisani, Carol (Farai, Chelesani) and Lindelwa. We are a family who fellowship here at Winchester Road Methodist Church and we are a long way from home. As one can figure out by the exotic (perfectly normal sounding names in Zimbabwe), except Carol’s name we hail from a land far, far away.

The names Dumisani, Farai Chelesani and Lindelwa derive from the Ndebele language of Southern Africa. Not departing from the long standing African tradition of Christening children with meaningful names Dumisani (Inkosi), is the Ndebele/isiZulu word for Praise (The Lord), Farai Chelesani (Be Happy, Celebrate), whilst Lindelwa means (Someone) long awaited and cherished.

We arrived in the United Kingdom in the early 1990’s from Zimbabwe in Southern Africa and settled down to study, Carol qualifying as a Nurse and Dumisani attaining a degree in Business Administration. We both went on to carve out careers in the NHS and Local Government Authority respectively.

Carol comes from a family of long standing Methodists and used to regularly attend Sunday school (Biscuit Club equivalent) and the Youth Group at The Bulawayo Main Street Methodist Church. Once we settled in the UK we very quickly sought a Methodist Church near to us and we started attending Ponders End Methodist Church in Enfield. When we decided to get married we attended pre-marriage counselling conducted by the Rev Phil Horner. We then travelled back to Zimbabwe to be married in a ceremony presided by the Reverend JS Mudenda at our old Methodist Church in Bulawayo in the year 2000.

A few years later we moved house to live in Chingford and transferred our membership to join the Methodist Church at Station Road, North Chingford, in the same circuit as Winchester Road. A few years after our marriage we were blessed with the arrival of Lindelwa in 2004. Carol was very poorly just before the birth and after, after developing a condition known as Pre-Eclampsia, which is characterised by high blood pressure and low blood cell breakdown. This meant that Lindelwa had to be born by emergency caesarean prematurely, to save both Carol’s life and give Lindelwa a fighting chance of survival. Lindelwa’s birth was a very difficult experience for us as he was born 13 weeks pre-term weighing in at 1lb 10oz with a lot of health complications. Living so far from home and without the family support network that most African young parents (mothers, in particular) would expect from a large family we struggled. He stayed in the neo-natal unit for 13 weeks before we could bring him home. There were questions why this was happening to us, but our faith pulled us through the doubts and our little boy grew stronger by the day and our hopes were renewed through prayer and faith. Towards the end of our fellowship in North Chingford Carol was serving as a Church Steward at North Chingford and I was confirmed as a member of the church at the North Chingford church.

We were very happy to fellowship at North Chingford Church and enjoyed our time there but as our son grew up we began to realise that we wanted more for him than to sit at the back of the church playing with toys during the adult service, as he was the only child in the congregation. We then began looking for a church where there was a young church for Lindelwa to attend. After a very stressful house move when we had sold our house but the new house we were buying and moving into was not quite ready, we were very happy to find and transfer our Membership to Winchester Road.

Our life here at Winchester Road has been very happy, more so for Lindelwa as he has now made so many friends in the Young Church, which is affectionately known as The Biscuit Club. He has been attending confirmation classes and has actually decided to be confirmed as a full member of the Methodist Church.

We have enjoyed worshipping and fellowshipping here and speaking for myself personally I have also enjoyed the cakes which are readily available almost every Sunday. We have started to find our feet in the church and are looking forward to taking part in more and more events in the church. It is our prayer that our faith will grow stronger and we will learn to serve our God more in the fold of Winchester Methodist Church.

WALK OF WITNESS – GOOD FRIDAY 25th March

The walk will start at the Library at 10.30am and we will walk quietly behind the Cross to Winchester Road Methodist Church. We will stop at different points to sing, pray, listen to verses from the Bible and readings.

We will give out Crème eggs and a small Easter card to those we meet on the walk.

There will be a service at Winchester Road beginning at 11.30am. This will be followed by a simple soup lunch.

Maundy Thursday or Holy Thursday

It has become our custom to mark the events of Holy Week with special services or other activities, though sadly the demise of our Wesley Guild has deprived members of the chance to sing-along with either Stainer’s Crucifixion or Maunder’s Olivet to Calvary. Each year on the Thursday we have marked the events of the eve of Good Friday, in different ways. After Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem the disciples prepared to celebrate the traditional Passover Supper which recalled the last meal of the Jews before they were led out of their Egyptian captivity by Moses.

The Gospels record that before the meal Jesus washed his disciples feet. In the medieval church it became the custom for the Bishop or priest to wash the feet of twelve men to demonstrate his humility and willingness to serve. In England from the thirteenth century until 1689 the Sovereign washed the feet of twelve men on this day in Westminster Abbey.

The word Maundy, which gives the day its name, has a Latin root ‘mandatum’ meaning a command (note our word mandatory which describes something which must be done). In the Latin Bible John 13 v 34 begins ‘Mandatum do vobis……..Jesus words to the disciples being translated as ‘ A new commandment I give unto you , That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. It is claimed that the Latin word mandatum passed into French giving the verb ‘mendier’ to beg and then into English where the noun Maundy was used to describe a purse in which alms or charity gifts were given. So on Holy Thursday it became the tradition for the Sovereign to give gifts of money to the poor in small bags called maundies. This year, at St Georges Chapel Windsor, the Queen will give two leather purses, one white containing specially minted tiny silver pence coins totalling the years of the sovereign’s age. The other purse is a red purse and contains a gift of modern money for food and clothing. At one time the gift was of cloth to make clothes.

The silver coins are for 1,2,3 and 4 pence and each purse contains coins to the value of the Sovereign’s age and are given to the same number of men and women. (see the photo opposite). This year the gifts will be given to 90 men and 90 women at a ceremony at St Georges Chapel Windsor. The recipients are selected from voluntary workers of churches and community organisations.

In March 1991 Eric Warner, who was nominated for his work with the Whitechapel Mission and for his years of service as Treasurer and organist at Winchester Road, was a recipient of Maundy money at the service held in Westminster Abbey. If you would like to see the coins he received Maureen Duncan will be happy to show them to you.

The Gospels record that after he had washed the disciple’s feet Jesus
instituted the sacrament of Holy Communion (also called the Lord’s Supper or Eucharist by other denominations), an act of remembrance, a new covenant which lies at the heart of Christian Worship. Paul, in his letter to the Church at Corinth reminded them about the conduct of the rite, words which are also familiar to us through our Communion Service.

‘the Lord on the night he was betrayed, took a piece of bread, gave thanks to God, broke it and said “This is my body which is for you. Do this in memory of me. In the same way, after the supper he took the cup and said “ This is Gods new covenant, sealed with my blood. Whenever you drink it, do so in memory of me.”
I Cor 11 v 23. (Good News Bible)

In some churches at the service, flowers and religious symbols are put away to leave the church bare for the Good Friday Service, while some hold a vigil to remember the time Jesus spent in prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane before his betrayal and arrest. The prayer below is used at a Vigil service held in the Southwark Archdiocese

Through washing the feet of his friends
Christ taught us to love one another
Let us now pray to our Heavenly Father
For the strength to carry out that command.

Allen Steel

FOREST CIRCUIT MWiB
Saturday 18th June at Woodford Methodist Church

This will be the third MWiB fund-raising concert. The first was 12th June 2010 at the South Chingford Methodist Church and the second was 6th October 2012 at the Leytonstone Methodist Church. The third is, therefore, overdue. Both the previous concerts were successful events and this success was due largely to the co-operation and participation of churches. I am now writing to ask you to seek out the talent in your churches and encourage people to volunteer to perform.

As in the previous concerts, we would like a variety of talent – solos, duets, choirs, steel band, poetry /dramatic reading, instrumental solos etc. There is a wealth of talent around the Circuit and I hope that the date/time is agreeable to most people.

It would be helpful if you would let me have (copied to Pat Andrews, email: Ronald.andrews@ntlworld.com) the names of those who are willing to take part and what they propose to do. If each church contributes one or two performances we should have a full programme. Please reply by Thursday 31 March 2016.

With thanks and best wishes.
Patsy

0208 523 819

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

AUCTION SUPPER – £8.00
Saturday 7th May
Hot meal and dessert, tea and coffee
Food at 6.00pm Auction at 7.00pm
Items for the auction will be gratefully received
Tickets and information fro mHazel, Janice, Jan or Pat (07939299278)

BOOK THE DATE

PAMPER EVENING
Friday 13th May
Details in next newsletter

Timber
A man with a nagging secret couldn’t keep it any longer.
In the confessional he admitted that for years he had been stealing building supplies from the timber yard where he worked. He told the priest he had taken enough to build his son’s house, a cottage for his daughter, and a garden house for his wife.
“This is very serious,” said the priest. I shall have to think of a far-reaching penance. Have you ever done a retreat?”
“No Father, I haven’t,” admitted the man. “But if you can get me some plans, I’ll get the timber.”

Some members of our Cookie Club on s Sunday morning

FEBRUARY 2016 NEWSLETTER

Our Minister’s letter

Dear Friends,

Every four years, our calendar tells us that it is a Leap Year, meaning that the year has an extra or intercalary day. Leap years occur ’to keep the modern day Gregorian calendar in alignment with the Earth’s revolutions around the Sun’. For the earth to circle the sun it takes 365 days, 48 minutes and 46 seconds. This is called a tropical year. According to the Gregorian calendar, if we did not have an extra day on February 29, every four years, we would knock off six hours from the calendar every year. In the course of a hundred years we would lose approximately 24 days.

There are various traditions attached to a leap year. The most familiar being a day when a woman can propose marriage to a man. It is either an old Irish legend or possibly history that St Brigid made a deal with St Patrick to allow women this opportunity. I was unaware that if the man refused a woman’s proposal, he had to buy her twelve pairs of gloves to conceal the fact that she was not wearing an engagement ring.

Discovering the story behind some of our traditions and beliefs can be quite fascinating. Immediate access to the internet provides almost instant answers to our questions. Long gone are the days when one had to search in an encyclopaedia.

The season of Lent starts early this year, as Easter is celebrated in March. Many of the questions that we ask about Jesus and his life, his birth, death and resurrection, can be found within the gospel stories. Explanation and understanding of some of the stories and parables only comes from further study, reading a commentary or searching on the internet. The season of Lent provides the opportunity to join a Lent Group, and to share in this journey of exploration with others. Local groups will be taking place this Lent and as soon as details are available I will pass these to you. You may be gently surprised at what you discover and make new friendships with people from other churches.

Throughout our lives we continue to learn, so be open to what God might be saying to you this Lent, and in the weeks that prepare us for Easter, the greatest festival in the church calendar.

With best wishes for Lent,

Hilary

John Wesley Preacher

In the 18th century many people believed that living a ‘good life’, performing ‘good deeds’ thereby accumulating ‘good points’ in some heavenly record book was all that was required of the Christian. The mid century saw a revival in religion, which in Britain is associated with George Whitefield, John and Charles Wesley. Salvation the Wesley’s preached could not be earned by deeds or outward piety but was the gift of a generous and loving God. John’s preaching reflected the words of Paul in his letter to the Ephesians For it is by God’s grace you have been saved through faith. It is not the result of your own efforts, but God’s gift, so that no one can boast about it (Ch 2 v 8&9).

Though Whitefield attracted large crowds and was the leading preacher of the revival it was John Wesley’s setting up of Methodist Societies that was to have the lasting effect. The Societies which met weekly in farmhouses, barns, cottages, hired rooms etc. were led by travelling (itinerant) evangelists not ministers or priests. John expected the members of the ‘Methodist Societies’ to attend their parish church or other religious meeting place on Sundays, he did not see them as rivals to the existing parish set up. Events were to bring about a separation from the Church of England after his death.

In his Journal John Wesley describes the variety of places where he preached, to small groups as well as large crowds, and the hostility which he met, especially in the early days. The Anglican hierarchy and parish priests accused him of undermining the established church and local magistrates were hostile to any large gathering of people. He preached against a range of social ills including ‘Sabbath breaking,’ smuggling, drunkenness, wrestling, gambling giving rise to active hostility. Alehouse keepers were active in harassing Wesley’s meetings. In his Journal he tells of numerous occasions when he was attacked.

Whilst he was preaching in Shoreditch on the text ‘to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God (Micah 6. v 8) a great shout began. Many of the rabble had brought an ox which they were labouring to drive among the people…he ran round and round and broke through the midst….leaving us calmly rejoicing and praising God. (Journal July 1741).

Trying to preach near Wednesbury he was shouted down by a noise on every side like the roaring of the sea. So they dragged me along till we came to the tow, where seeing the door of a large house open I attempted to go in, but a man, catching me by the hair pulled me back into the middle of the mob. Wesley pleaded with the crowd and gained sufficient support which enabled him to escape across the fields . (Journal October1742)

During his life time John Wesley’s fame and the number of societies grew due to him travelling over twelve thousand miles a year around Britain on horseback and coach. Staffordshire potters cashed in on his popularity and produced a range of ornaments for Methodists to place on their mantelpieces. Today the finest of them like Enoch Woods’ bust of Wesley shown on a recent edition of the Antiques Roadshow is now worth over £1,000.

Thanks to the generosity of a good friend I have just become the proud owner of a ten inch high Staffordshire Flatback from the mid 19th century (shown left). This simple figure of John Wesley preaching was produced more cheaply for ordinary Methodists and being made to go against the wall and so the back was flat and unglazed hence the name ’flatback’. He is pictured standing on a mantel clock showing the time as 11.30 with angels at its top corners.

Allen Steel

This seemed like a good introduction to the Afternoon Tea on the 5th March…

AFTERNOON TEA, ANYONE?

Do you take afternoon tea? Ever wondered where it started? The custom seems to date back to the mid-19th century, and the seventh Duchess of Bedford, Anna Russell. The Duchess got hungry at about 4pm each day and complained that she had that “sinking feeling”. As it was still four hours until dinner (at 8pm), she began to have sandwiches or a small cake with some tea. Her friends thought this was marvellous, and the idea spread quickly through (hungry) upper class circles.#Soon, it seems, everyone in England was looking forward to Afternoon Tea, and a great British tradition was born. Though during the last century the sandwiches and cake gave way to biscuits, still we reached for the teapot each afternoon. Not so much any more, it seems. In the last five years, sales of tea have dropped by nearly a quarter and sales of biscuits have sunk by a tenth. Nowadays we reach for bottled water and fruits, nuts or even cheese.

Help revive the tradition – see advert

PRAYER ON PRAYER

Dear Father,

Thank you that you want us, your children, to connect with you in prayer.

Thank you that we can come to you, rest in your presence and spend time with you, either quietly or crying out our thoughts and concerns from open hearts.

Help us to trust you, to be confident that you hear us and will answer our prayers, in the right time and on the right way for us, even if we don’t always understand,

Thank you for the sustaining privilege of prayer.

In Jesus name.

Amen

Daphne Kitching

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN HIGHAMS PARK

LENT COURSE 2016

the psalms – prayers for today’s church

A 5 week course

(No need to sign up – simply turn up)

This year there are two groups running:

Tuesday, 1.30-3.00pm at Malvern Avenue URC

beginning 16th February

Thursday, 7.30-9.00pm at 21 Falmouth Avenue

beginning 18th February

Finances

Monthly offertory collections for the end of 2015 have been as follows;

August £3,566.83

September £3,305.21

October £3,167.11

November £3,246.75

December £3,358.79

We had our highest ever Gift Aid payment from the Inland Revenue at £13,114.33. £5,000 of this has been placed in the Reserve fund to start to replace the money used for the new building. The remainder will be used for the maintenance of the premises and the worship of the church.

£314 was donated in memory of Francis Edwards towards the building fund.

£635 was sent to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Margaret Pettit.

Janice

SHOEBOXES

This year I would be very grateful if I could have some volunteers to cover the shoeboxes with wrapping paper. I have plenty of shoeboxes ready to cover and I can provide the paper and glue sticks, just let me know what you need. Also if you prepare your own shoebox, can I ask that you cover it please, as I no longer wish to do this.

Thanks

Sylvia Dixon

JUMBLE SALE & COFFEE MORNING

SATURDAY 6th FEBRUARY 10am—12 noon

We are in need of volunteers for our Jumble Sale on the 6th February.

If you are able to help in any of the following ways then please let me or Janice know.

* to sort and collect jumble on Friday evening (1st February) from 7pm

* to serve on the stalls on Saturday morning from 9.45am

* to provide tea/coffee and run a cake stall

* to make cakes for the cake stall

* to come down at 12.00 on the Saturday to help clear up

* to come down at 12.30 on the Saturday to take a car load to the dump

* to leaflet the local roads the weekend prior to the jumble sale

Sarah Hayward 020 8527 7778 sarahhayward78@hotmail.co.uk

28th FEBRUARY

During morning worship we will have a speaker talk to us about the work of Haven House Children’s Hospice.

There will be an opportunity to donate to this local cause during the service’

Susan Knights

Family Friendly Churches Trust

Leo and I have used some of the Family Friendly Trust material in our services, and find it particularly accessible for the younger folk in the church.

The day is open to everyone from the circuit. No charge is being made but a donation towards the cost of lunch would be appreciated. Whether you are involved in leading worship or not, there will be something to be gained from the teaching. Everyone is welcome.

Hilary

MERCY SHIP

I am doing a sponsored swim (50 lengths) to raise money for the Mercy Ship.

This is a hospital ship which sails to Africa from August until June each year, operating on people needing medical help.. Leo volunteers as one of the surgeons and Hilary as Pastor. If you are able to sponsor me for this vital cause please make cheques payable to ‘Mercy Ships’.

Thank you.

Sylvia Dixon

Christmas Inn 2015

This year it was Janice and Maureen who provided a superb Christmas meal for about 60+ guests, plus two meals delivered to guests’ homes, and for about 35 helpers. We were very fortunate to have a fleet of willing car drivers, more than in previous years, at our disposal plus a Community Transport minibus. We would have used the Boys Brigade minibus for transport home but someone had stolen the glass out of the wing-mirrors, making that minibus unusable. Fortunately we were able to accommodate all the passengers in various cars. Once again transport was organised by Alan Burgoine, who did a great job, but we could always do with more drivers and if anyone thinks he/she may be able to help next Christmas Day, please let me know.

For those who aren’t sure what Christmas Inn is, herewith a brief description: every Christmas, Care Highams Park invites residents of Waltham Forest – single parents and children, individuals, couples, people with disabilities – to spend Christmas Day at Winchester Road, where they are given the opportunity to worship on Christmas morning, followed by a traditional dinner, afternoon entertainment and tea, and transport both ways provided by a team of volunteers who are willing to interrupt their own festivities to do so.

For the last 9-10 years I have been responsible for coordinating the event both in advance – i.e. writing to guests and to anyone I think might be able to help with Christmas Inn and then fielding the responses – and also on the day. While Care is fortunate to have many volunteers who donate their money, time and goods, and occasionally their car-driving skills, we can always do with more help, particularly on the day.

Home-made cakes are always much appreciated as are boxes (preferably c. 200g.) of chocolates. People who don’t mind washing up crockery and cutlery for about 80 people at a time are often in short supply and we would always be delighted to receive offers of transport (to morning service, to both sittings of lunch, and return at around 5.00 pm) – if you can help, please see me. Although this year we were fortunate to receive a generous grant from Waitrose, gifts of money are also welcome as they enable us to buy what we need without asking Churches Together in Highams Park to make up the shortfall.

I think I can speak for all involved in Christmas Inn, particularly on Christmas Day, when I say that however tired you are after a lot of hard work (and relieved that it only happens once a year), you are more than rewarded by the thanks of our guests and the smiles on their faces as they await their transport home, which make it all worth while.

Mary-Rose French

THANK YOU

I would like to send my grateful thanks to all who kindly sent me their Christmas greetings and to you all for being such a kind and caring Church.

May the coming year be a peaceful one. God bless you all.

Olive Wimble

EXPENSIVE BOAT

A vicar was planning an Easter pilgrimage to the Holy Land, and was aghast when he found it would cost him £50 an hour to rent a boat on the Sea of Galilee.

He protested to the travel agent that the cost was ridiculous.

“That might be true”, replied the travel agent, “but you have to take into account that the Sea of Galilee is water on which our Lord himself walked”.

“Well, at £50 an hour for a boat, I am not surprised!”

FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT

This year, Fairtrade Fortnight runs from 29 February-13^th March. It is an opportunity to buy fairly traded products from the Fairtrade stall or in the Supermarket and support the work of the Fairtrade movement.

This seeks to pay a fair salary to those farmers in different parts of the world who work hard so that we can enjoy some of the everyday products that we use like sugar, tea and coffee, chocolate, rice and dried fruit. Some Supermarkets also sell fairly traded wine and flowers, and other shops sell fairly traded clothing.

Even if you only buy one product that is fairly traded, during this time, you will be helping a family in a different part of the world. Most Supermarkets have special offers advertised during this fortnight, so do look out for bananas, cereal and pasta as you make your weekly shop. The Fairtrade logo is attached, which will confirm that the product you are purchasing is from the Fairtrade range.

Where possible, let us all try to make our church a Fairtrade Church by using fairly traded items when we serve refreshments.

Many thanks,

Hilary Cheng

TAKE TIME

Take time to THINK

It is the source of power

Take time to PLAY

It is the secret of powerful youth

Take time to READ

It is the fountain of wisdom

Take time to PRAY

It is the greatest power on earth

Take time to LOVE and BE LOVED

It is a God-given privilege

Take time to be FRIENDLY

It is the road to happiness

Take time to LAUGH

It is the music of the soul

Take time to GIVE

It is too short a day to be selfish

Take time to WORK

It is the price of success

Take time to do CHARITY

It is the key to heaven

Sent to Joyce Roden by her Japanese friend who is a Nun

Coffee mornings

These will start on Friday mornings in March……

If you are able to help please speak

to one of the Stewards.

HELP!

A traveller became lost in an unnamed desert. Realising his only chance for survival was to find civilisation, he began walking. Time passed, and he became thirsty. More time passed and he began feeling faint.

Reducing to a crawl, he was on the verge of passing out when he spied a small shack about 500 metres in front of him. Barely conscious, he reached the shack and called out, “Water! Please I need water!”

An old man appeared at the door of the shack and replied sympathetically, “I am sorry sir, I have no water. However would you like to buy a tie?” With this he brandished a collection of exquisite silken neckwear.

“You fool,” gasped the man. “I’m dying! I just need water!”

“Well sir,” replied the old man, “If you really need water, there is another shack about 2 kilometres south of here where you can get some.”

Without knowing how, the man summoned enough strength to drag his parched body to the second shack. With his last ounce of strength he tugged at the door of the second Shack and collapsed.

Another man, looking enough like the old man to be his brother, appeared at the door dressed in a costly tuxedo. Looking down at the crumpled mass at his door, he inquired, “May I help you sir?”

“Water…” came the feeble reply.

“Oh, sir,” replied the man, “I’m sorry, but you can’t come in here without a tie!”

FROM GILLIAN FARNFIELD

I was once described by someone as a “cradle Methodist”, which is factually accurate although I very much see myself as a Christian first, Methodist second! Although I don’t recall it, I certainly must have attended Gants Hill Methodist Church as I was christened there by my late uncle, who was minister there at the time. However, we moved to Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire when I was a toddler, so I grew up in Wesley Methodist Church, Cinderford. I took part in life there, growing up through and teaching in the Sunday School, joining the youth choir, taking part (both on stage and in the “orchestra”) at the annual inter-church pantomime. The Forest of Dean Circuit, as it was then, was lively and I remember reading hymns, readings and singing at the Eisteddfods – a good grounding for local preaching!

I moved to London in 1980 after qualifying as a bilingual secretary and my aunt and uncle (also a local preacher!) kindly let me stay at their home until I got married six years later. My first job was working as a secretary at the JMA office in Marylebone Road and during the first couple of years was very much involved in producing the quarterly magazine and information for JMA secretaries. I was also asked to typeset packs for the World Affairs Youth Secretary including Racism Awareness, and the arms trade, which is where I first became interested in social and political issues. I also worked at MHA and the Methodist Division of Social Responsibility before working for a few years for Reuters (so different but interesting!) then for an NHS Region before becoming a civil servant at the Department of Health.

I joined Woodford Methodist Church when I came to London and helped out at the Boys’ Brigade (juniors mostly) for a few years, which was rewarding but challenging but I did meet my husband of 27 years when he started helping in the Company! I then became a BB widow (Graham was Battalion President) for the rest of our marriage – I was touched when the Battalion officers asked me to take their Devotional service last Autumn. Great bunch of dedicated people who I enjoy keeping in touch with.

Although I think I’ve always believed in God, my Christian journey really started in the early 1980s at a conference for JMA District Secretaries in a former monastery in the middle of industrial Staffordshire. I very much felt the presence of the Holy Spirit and it fired me up to want to learn more about him and to work for him. I have been a Home Mission Secretary (not really me), steward and JMA Secretary (more suitable) and Pastoral Secretary. However, after a couple of attempts by the Lord to try to get me to take a possible call to preach seriously (I was pretty shy and certainly not very confident), I eventually had a pretty dramatic religious experience and I found it difficult to say no to that. I wouldn’t say local preacher training was easy, but as I and many others have discovered, if the Lord wants you to take something like that on, he gives you the courage and knowledge if you trust in Him! And there are so many people who have helped and are still helping me along the way, including my mentor, the late John Robins. I still remember some of his advice! It is humbling to preach at the various churches and meet so many faithful Christian people.

But life is never smooth, is it?. In the late nineties, I ended up working at the Department of Health on child protection policy, a job I very much felt the Lord wanted me to do. However, in 2001, after a stressful year including getting involved in the aftermath of the Victoria Climbie murder at work, I had a traumatic family bereavement (involving a child) and ended up being diagnosed with anxiety and depression. All I can say is that I was fortunate in that during my tough times, I have always felt the Lord’s presence. As I read at the time – “however low you stoop, underneath are the everlasting arms”. After several periods of bad health and a lot of support from family, friends and the NHS, I feel much stronger now.

However, God was working through that too – not long before I was diagnosed with depression, I went to an evening service and felt very strongly that the Lord was saying “I will rechannel you through your brokenness”. I must say my faith has been deepened through the experience and I have a very special relationship with the Lord. This was a little tested though when I felt he wanted me to put myself forward for vocational training as it was, although I strongly felt the Lord wanted me to be a Deacon. I am grateful for the Circuit in putting me forward. However, the interviews were very stressful, which is probably why I was turned down at the first stage! After a few years, the “call” didn’t go away and the Circuit kindly paid for me to go to an Exploring Vocations course at Muswell Hill. That was a great experience and I eventually felt that the Lord did want me to be a Deacon, but didn’t want me to offer again if that makes sense. However, I felt he had plans for me – in His own time.

For reasons I still don’t fully understand, I felt strongly that the Lord wanted me to transfer my membership to Winchester Road. This was a difficult decision and I am grateful to my dear friends at Woodford for their understanding. And so in June 2014, a few months after the death of my husband, I started worshipping here. I have been made so welcome and felt at home from a very early stage. It hasn’t been an easy couple of years for me personally, but I thank everyone for their friendship and support. As for God’s further plans – watch this space!

NOVEMBER 2015 NEWSLETTER

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

A letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

Did you know that there is a World Kindness Day in our calendar? World Kindness Day (WKD) is celebrated on 13th November in many different countries, and was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement.

According to the website, ‘Kindness is a fundamental part of the human condition which bridges the divides of race, religion, politics, gender and zip codes. World Kindness Day is to highlight good deeds in the community focussing on the positive power and common thread of kindness which binds us’.

The Bible speaks about the need to be kind to one another. St Paul wrote to the church in Colosse and urged the Christians there, ‘Put on garments that suit God’s chosen and beloved people: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness patience’, Colossians 3:12 REB. Paul also lists kindness amongst the fruits of the Holy Spirit, Galatians 5:22.

As churches, we should take on board the need to be kind to one another. Before you speak to someone, think about what you are going to say. How will the other person receive it? Am I being kind in how I relate to this person? Will my words or actions hurt or heal?

We are all capable of acts of kindness, and are particularly appreciative when we receive such deeds of thoughtfulness and grace. As Christian people, we are encouraged to be kind to one another. Acts of kindness include many things. Here are a few: doing some shopping for someone who is unable to get to the shops, visiting someone at home or in hospital, offering a lift, doing ironing or gardening to help another person, bake a cake and give it to someone who would appreciate it, send a card, or phone a friend who you haven’t spoken to for a while.

These are a few ideas. You will be able to think of many more. This year, WKD falls on a Friday. Think of something that you could do for someone else. You never know, someone may do you an act of kindness. We are all capable of acts of kindness, and are particularly appreciative when we receive such deeds of grace and thoughtfulness. As Christian people, we are encouraged to be kind to one another.

With so many awful events happening in our world, we would all benefit from more kindness. We can be kind people, just as Jesus was. Maybe if everyone offered a little more kindness, the world will one day become a kinder place.

Every blessing

Hilary

FAITH BEFORE THE FIRING SQUAD

This year is the 100th anniversary of Edith Cavell’s death. Many remember her patriotism. But for Edith, patriotism was not enough. Many saw her as a hero and a martyr, some even think she was a spy. But Edith asked to be remembered ‘…only as a nurse who tried to do her duty’.

Dozens of books have been written about Edith Cavell, but none answered the question: ‘How could she be so calm and confident before the firing squad? A new book, Edith Cavell—Faith before the firing squad tells Edith’s story. It traces the roots of her calm confidence, her love for others expressed in practical, selfless service to friend and foe alike, as well as her courage helping fugitives find freedom.

Self-sacrifice was the hallmark of Nurse Edith Cavell’s life. She was executed on the 12th October 1915 for enabling at least 200 Allied soldiers to escape occupied Belgium into neutral territory, but her care had extended to German and Allied soldiers.

On the night before her execution she told the Chaplain who came to give her Holy Communion that she was grateful for the weeks of quiet she had spent in solitary confinement after such a busy life. She said , “I have seen death so often that it is not strange or fearful to me…. This I would say, standing as I do in view of God and eternity, I realise that patriotism is not enough. I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone”.

She knew that the patriotism her fellow prisoners used in their defence was not enough to enable her to stand in God’s presence. Throughout her life she had used the Book of Common Prayer, repeating the Lord’s Prayer morning and evening, ‘forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us’. She knew she couldn’t hold on to hatred or bitterness. She needed to forgive others, just as she had been forgiven.

After they shared Communion, they said together the words of the hymn ‘Abide with me’, and they talked about heaven. As he left her cell, she took the Chaplain’s hand and said with confidence in her eternal future, ‘We shall meet again’.

She was executed by firing squad at dawn.

Remembering

November is the month for remembering people and events. It begins with All Saints Day on November 1st, which is sometimes referred to as All Hallows and is preceded by All Hallows Eve, better known as Halloween. On this day Roman Catholics and Anglicans remember the Saints who dedicated their lives, or gave their lives for their Christian beliefs. In France it is National Holiday when people visit family graves to remember and leave flowers.

On Remembrance Sunday (Nov 8th this year) at the Cenotaph the Queen will lead the nation in remembering those who died in war. Last August there were celebrations to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, VE Day and VJ Day. In the September issue of Winchester News I wrote about the Captives Hymn written in a Japanese internment camp. The turning point in the war in the Far East was the Battle of Kohima fought in April 1944 in north east India, close to the Burmese border, where the Japanese advance into India was turned back. British forces defended Kohima Ridge, overlooking the town on which was the site of the Deputy Commissioners Bungalow leading to it being called the Battle of the Tennis Court.

Today the site is occupied by a War Cemetery with 1,420 graves and a memorial bearing the Kohima Epitaph. The words were written by a classical scholar John Maxwell Edmonds basing it on a poem by Simonides an ancient Greek lyric poet who wrote them in 480BC in memory of the Spartans who died at the Battle of Thermopylae. In 1919 Edmonds published a collection of epitaphs many of which can be found on memorials around the world including this one on the World War One battle site at Vimy Ridge in France

You come from England; is she England still ?
Yes thanks to you who died upon this hill.

Others he suggested included:

Went the day well ? We died and never knew
But well or ill, England we died for you
*
You that live on amid England’s pastures green
Remember us and think of what might have been
*
He suggested the second of these for use on village War memorials.
For some reason while writing this article a hymn with a rousing tune came into my mind which I found has been omitted from Singing the Faith. Perhaps it was left out because it might seem to be too backward looking, or is couched in dated language, or even has militaristic overtones.
For the might of Thine arm we bless thee, our
God, our fathers God

(MHB 715) which was written by Charles Silvester Horne (pictured right) father of the late radio performer Kenneth Horne.

Horne, born in 1865, was the son of a Congregational minister who gave up the ministry to become a printer, bookseller and to run a local newspaper. He studied at Glasgow University and then was a member of the first intake into Mansfield College the newly established Non conformist College in Oxford. Prior to this only Anglicans could obtain degrees at Oxford and Cambridge. His first appointment was as the minister of Kensington Congregational Chapel and from 1903 was the minister of the noted Whitefield’s Chapel in Tottenham Court Road. He achieved fame as a preacher and as the writer of several hymns including.
Sing we the king who is coming to reign (STF 185)

the only one of his included in our new book. His skills as an orator took him to Parliament in 1910 as Liberal MP for Ipswich. On holiday in Canada in 1914 he was travelling on a steamer from Niagara Falls when he became ill and died at the young age of 49, leaving a wife and seven children.
Allen Steel

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

NOVEMBER

Sunday 15th Parade Service with JMA and Shoe Boxes

Sunday 22nd Communion—coming forward

Saturday 28th CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

DECEMBER

Sunday 6th Contemporary Worship at 4.00pm in The Hub

Sunday 13th Shared picnic in the Memorial Hall after Morning Worship

Monday 14th Carol Singing at the station 5.30-6.30pm

Sunday 20th Nativity Play during Morning Worship

Sunday 20th Carol Service at 4.00pm followed by Mince Pies etc.

Thursday 24th Christingle Service at 5.30pm

LIFE AND DEATH

The Vicar was preaching a powerful sermon concerning death and judgement. In the course of the sermon, he said, “Just think – all of you living in this parish will one day die”.

At this a man in the front pew began to laugh quietly.

After the service the Vicar demanded sternly why he had found such a serious subject so funny.

The man explained, “I was just happy, because I don’t live in this parish”.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

This is just a very early taster for half-term October 2016 – please book the date in your diary. To take part, the pantomime is open to the Church congregation, Sunday School and all sections of Scouts and Guides (including leaders) at Winchester Road Church.
Our pantomime is a firm favourite with the local community priding itself on the perfect blend of traditional family entertainment, high energy and of course value for money! With our previous successful pantomimes written and directed by our own Maureen Duncan, we expect Jack and the Beanstalk to be no exception.
It’s the classic story of boy climbs beanstalk in order to make his fortune. But will there be a happy ending? (It’s a pantomime- oh yes there will!)
More details will appear here when they are available, but you can keep up by letting me or Maureen know that you would be interested in this event. We’re also looking for people to get involved, whether on stage or backstage. Do you fancy a speaking or a principal role or just being in the chorus? Can you teach some dance movements or help with wardrobe? Rehearsals for principles will be a Monday or Tuesday evening with the chorus and dancers on Sundays afternoons. These rehearsals will start at the beginning of school term in September 2016. It all takes place in just seven weeks!
If you can help and wish to be involved, please contact me 0208 5275435 or email: michaelhayward15@hotmail.com or speak to Maureen.

NIGEL WARD HAS SENT NEWS ABOUT HIS MUM AND JACK

It has been an ‘interesting few months over the summer. Rene’s husband (Jack) suffered a stroke and was admitted to Southend Hospital in late June. About ten days later Mum had a sickness bout and was also admitted to Southend University Hospital. She beat Jack/John out of hospital but has had to go into temporary respite care as she could no longer be cared for at Abbeyfields. Jack/John was in hospital for over a month and then went into a stroke rehab unit nearby (where he reverted to his Christian name of John – having changed to Jack when he was 13 years old). He was discharged from there several weeks ago and was fortunate to find a space at Cedar House, a Christian Care Home. He has just celebrated his 103rd birthday! Rene followed him several weeks later when another room became available. Both are now in wheelchairs although we hope they might get some limited mobility back.

We hope they will both benefit from being together once more.

Nigel Ward
Penny Borkett

PRAYER AT REMEMBRANCE TIME

Loving Father,

When we watch the news or read the papers, we can feel overwhelmed by the tragedy of lives lost or affected by war or terrorism. And our Remembrance Day Services and anniversaries just seem to emphasize that continuing suffering.

Help us Lord, to switch our focus from what self-centred people do in their pursuit of power, to what you have done in Jesus, who gave his life so that the brokenness of creation might be restored to wholeness – and that we might have your peace in our hearts, even while the world rages about us. Help us to remember the important thing – to put our trust in Jesus, your Son.

In His name we pray.

Amen
Daphne Kitching

SEVEN LITTLE STORIES

1. Once all villagers decided to pray for rain. On the day of prayer all the people gathered, but only one boy came with an umbrella.

That’s FAITH

2. When you throw a baby in the air, she laughs because she knows you will catch her.

That’s TRUST

3. Every night we go to bed without any assurance of being alive the next morning, but still we set the alarms to wake up.

That’s HOPE

4. We plan big things for tomorrow in spite of zero knowledge of the
future.

That’s CONFIDENCE

5. We see the world suffering, but still we get married.

That’s LOVE

6. On an old man’s shirt was written a sentence. “I am not 60 years old. I am Sweet 16 with 44 years of experience”.

That’s ATTITUDE

7. One of the things age changes is; at age 22 you walk into a bar and look around for a nice looking girl to talk to. At age 80 you walk in and look around to make sure where the rest room is.

That’s SMART

SMILE LINES

Willpower: the ability to eat one salted peanut — and stop.

PASTORAL NEWS

Hilary has recently heard from Pauline Fitzpatrick’s daughter, Lorraine Baxter, that Pauline is now in a home. Lorraine has asked that if anyone wishes to write or send cards to Pauline could they please send them to Lorraine who will take them into her mother when she visits. If you need Lorraine’s address please ask Hilary or Shirley Seaman.

THE FIFTH OF NOVEMBER

Until fairly recent years the 5th November was well known for foggy evenings as bonfires were lit all over the country. On many of them a ‘guy’ would be burnt – usually a couple of old pillows and some cast-off clothes in the rough shape of a man.

The ‘guy was, historically speaking, one of the chief conspirators in a plot by Roman Catholic zealots to blow up the Palace of Westminster at the State Opening of Parliament on the 5th November 1606, thus removing James I from the throne. Fawkes was arrested as he stood guard over a massive collection of gunpowder in an undercroft beneath the House of Lords. Under torture he revealed the names of the other conspirators, and they were hanged, drawn and quartered on the 31st January 1607, though Fawkes jumped from the scaffold and broke his neck, thus avoiding the actual execution.

The previous sixty years had seen unprecedented religious strife in England, following the breakaway of the Church of England from Rome under Henry VIII. Hundreds of priests loyal to Rome were hunted down and many put to death. often under the accusation of ‘treason’. During the brief reign of a Catholic monarch, Mary, there were many Protestants who were similarly executed. Years of strife, often over verbal definitions, were testimony to the bitterness of feelings which religious conviction can inspire.

There is still plenty of strife in the world, as we all know, though little now between different groups of Christians, the 5th November might be a good day on which to pray to God that the world might see an end to the blasphemy of any killing in His Name.

CRAFT FAIR

Although they forecast good weather failed to materialise it did not stop the public turning out for the 3rd Winchester Road Methodist Church Craft Fair on Saturday the 3rd October.

We had 23 stalls selling a wide assortment of quality handmade items from jewellery to wood ware and patchwork to cards. Stalls manned by church members proved as popular as always with the jams and chutneys, knitted toys, hand sewn wares and parchment cards selling well with the welcome addition of a display of some stunning photographs. The sweet stall was also a great success which certainly contributed to both waistlines and profits in equal measure.

Throughout the day the team worked hard in the kitchen and behind the cake stall to ensure everyone was fed and watered.

Finally, all it leaves me to say is a big THANK YOU to everyone who helped with the preparation, delivery or cleaning up after the event.

Debbie Crawford

TO BE A FARMER’S BOY?

An English ballad from the 1800’s had verses ending with To plough and sow and reap and mow, To be a Farmer’s boy. I was a farmer’s boy and was born and raised in a small village called Ulrome in the East Riding of Yorkshire. It is made up of plain, functional brick buildings that keep out the elements and has little that would have excited Pevsner. It’s on the east coast but the cliffs there are low, not very pretty and, being made of soft glacial boulder clay, are eroding rapidly with each big winter storm. I think almost everyone in the village worked on the land so that life – and it was a hard one – was all that we knew.

The war changed things. One or two men were in the navy but the rest, being in agriculture, a reserved occupation, stayed to produce food. My older cousins were in the Home Guard. They had a shotgun from the farm but little else that would have worried the Germans. Perhaps the main attraction was the uniform to impress the girls. Around 1943 an airfield was built near us and a lot of the ballast for the concrete runways was excavated from the beach and hauled by trucks through the village. Once operational, 158 Squadron joined the bombing war over Germany. The losses of Halifax bombers and crews were huge but, at the time, we children were thankfully in ignorance of the true meaning of the word loss. Some RAF and WAAF personnel came to the village chapel (and into villagers’ homes) and friendships were made that endured the rest of their lives. For the last couple of years of the war we had prisoners of war working on the farm. Two Italians, Toni and Belmo, lived in during the week but the Germans came daily and had to return to the camp each evening in case they tried to escape.

The Methodist chapel was the centre for many of the activities in the village. My aunt ran a youth club there and my father the Sunday school. Two uncles were local preachers, as was my maternal grandfather. Methodism is in the blood. Our school was a one-roomed building divided into two by a heavy curtain and had eighteen pupils in total, aged five to eleven, with one teacher. I remain grateful to her for enabling me to get a foot on the academic ladder by way of an eleven-plus pass to get to the local grammar school in Bridlington.

A whole new world opened up at Bridlington. There were tiresome subjects like Latin and Greek which were compensated by geography and science, and sports; rugby, cricket and tennis. I realise now how lucky we were to have the generous playing field space, which allowed for two rugby pitches, a hockey pitch and the cricket square. Regarding a future career, I considered geology and forestry but in the end opted for land surveying, as I had always had a love for maps.

The South West Essex Technical College, to give it its then full title was the only place in the country to run a course in land surveying that led to the RICS qualification. I enrolled in 1957 and was lucky to get lodgings (digs will be a word recognised by older readers) at 63 Winchester Road with a lovely Christian lady, Mrs Baxter. The change from a quiet rural background to the big city was dramatic, to say the least. But I quickly felt at home thanks to the kindness of Mrs Baxter and soon came to attend Winchester Road Church.

The college course was headed by an eccentric but brilliant Polish man called Michalski, known to all as “Micky”. His English was not flawless and, when lost for the right word, would say, “You know, just”, a phrase much imitated by students. The course was attended by many mature students from Commonwealth countries. I can remember men (it was all male then) from Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria, Nyasaland, Rhodesia, Kenya, South Africa, Barbados and Trinidad. The rest of us were home-grown

In 1958 I moved to 61 Shernhall Street, a large old rambling house run by two flamboyant ladies, Gracie Judd and Phyllis Brockway. I joined the church at Shern Hall and it was there I met Margaret. Intermediate exams behind me, I started work at the LCC (later, after 1965, GLC) in the Land Survey Division. It was a period of expansion and we surveyors undertook site surveys for new housing projects, schools and major road improvement schemes. Out all day in the wintertime was a test of endurance and early 1963 was the coldest in my memory. We wore many layers of clothing to protect the body but bare fingers were needed to operate a theodolite! Margaret and I married at Shern Hall in 1962 and for three years had a small flat at 49a Raglan Road near Whipps Cross. In 1965 we bought our first house, 37 Forest Drive, for £4700 helped with a mortgage from the Shernhall Building Society. Children Laura and Mary arrived and we moved along the road to No 6 in 1978 to have more space for Laura and her cello .

After 1986, the writing was on the wall for the GLC and I had a hectic period transferring services to the London Boroughs and handling consequent staff redundancies in my teams. My own time came in early 1989 and I moved across the river from County Hall to take up the post of Secretary of the Methodist Ministers’ Housing Society based in Methodist Central Hall. MMHS exists to provide a retirement property for Methodist Ministers when he or she retires from the active work. The technical term for that still remains “sitting down”. In most years between thirty and forty ministers needed to be housed (mostly small houses but also a few bungalows and flats) by 31 August at the latest. The work was very pressurised in securing a home for everyone by that August deadline and, alongside that, was the maintenance of 800 properties scattered all over the country from Aberdeen in the north to Cornwall and the Channel Islands in the south. During my ten years with the Society I covered countless miles by train and car visiting properties and, just as importantly, the ministerial tenants there. Margaret came with me during the car visits, navigated (very handy with an Ordnance Survey map) and heard tenants’ life stories while I did a quick building survey of the property. It’s testimony to her wonderful unpaid services that my retirement cards from tenants always had the words “We wish you and Margaret every happiness…”

There have been big changes in my lifetime. The village school closed many years ago and the chapel just last year. The church clock, which my father wound every week for twenty years and my cousin for another forty, is still and silent. The horses which were still part of the farm’s work force until about 1952, disappeared almost overnight to be replaced by tractors and combines. And land surveying which u sed seven-figure function tables with a hand-cranked Brunsviga for calculations is now done in a fraction of the time with GPS, laser scanners and massive cheap computing power. I find the modern world amazing but I am glad to have lived when things seemed to move a bit slower, to have worked with farm horses and was engaged in a profession when surveying was still an art.

David Watson FRICS

A FRIEND ON WHEELS

Is it strange, or slightly bizarre
To give a name to a car?
Can an object of steel
Know the way that we feel
As we travel to places afar?

And yet a lot of us do
Call them Sarah, or Ruby, or Sue,
Or Albert or Fred
Or Harvey or Jed
Or Bertie, or Billie, or Blue!

But whether it’s scruffy, or smart
We’re always quite sorry to part;
And we care how it feels
Our dear friend on wheels
And we’re certain it has a warm heart!
Nigel Beeton

OPEN GARDENS

In the past we have organised an ‘Open Garden’s Day’. I have been asked by both gardeners and visitors to arrange another Open Day.

Church members, their friends and neighbours can offer to ‘open’ their garden for people to view between 10.00am and 12.00pm and/or 1.00pm and 3.00pm on a chosen Saturday. We then produce a programme including a map and description of each garden. A small charge (£3—£5) is made for these which provide entry to all the gardens. Some people have also offered refreshments or items for sale in their garden.

It did prove to be quite popular and personally I spoke to neighbours and local people with whom I had previously only exchanged greetings.

If you are interested in opening your garden please contact me and let me know ‘the best time of the year’. It doesn’t need to be spectacular, people enjoyed seeing a range of different garden layouts and plants.

Jan Dent
jdent7@gmail.com

CAMPING

Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson went on a camping trip, After a good meal and a bottle of wine, they lay down for the night, and went to sleep.

Some hours later, Holmes awoke and nudged his faithful friend.

“Watson, look up at the sky and tell me what you see”.

Watson replied, “I see millions and millions of stars”.

“What does that tell you?” Holmes asked. Watson pondered for a minute.

“Astronomically, it tells me that there are millions of galaxies and
potentially billions of planets.
Astrologically, I observe that Saturn is in Leo.
Homologically, I deduce that the time is approximately quarter past three. Theologically, I can see that God is all-powerful and that we are
small and insignificant.
Meteorologically, I suspect we will have a beautiful day tomorrow.
What does it tell you?”

Holmes was silent for a minute, then spoke.

“Watson, you idiot. Someone has stolen our tent!”
[/expand title] SEPTEMBER 2015 NEWSLETTER

A letter from our Minister

Dear Friends.

Susanna Annesley was the youngest of twenty five children. When she grew up, she married Samuel Wesley. She gave birth to nineteen children, ten of whom survived. One of her children John, founded the Methodist Church.

Susanna was a good mother. She taught her children to read and write and nurtured them in the Christian faith, this alongside running her home.

She is remembered for setting up the pastoral system that we have in the church. She started off by holding an evening service, where hymns were sung, and Bible readings shared, and then she would read one of her husband’s sermons. Out of this came her concern for the needs of church families. Many churches have House Groups today where people gather to study God’s word and deepen their faith. We have a House Group in our church too. If you would like details, please ask one of the Stewards.

We also have Pastoral Groups or classes as they are sometimes called. Each class has a Pastoral Leader who looks out for those in their class. If you have been confirmed and are a member of the Methodist Church, you will be in a Pastoral Group with a designated Pastoral Visitor. If you haven’t been confirmed, then your name can appear on our ‘associate‘ list. If you would like to be confirmed, and received into membership of the Methodist Church, please have a word with me. If you do not know who your Pastoral Visitor is, please ask one of the Stewards or Shirley Seaman, our Pastoral Secretary.

Pastoral Visitors exercise pastoral responsibility for those in their care. When someone from the church shares good news, is taken ill, or is bereaved, the Pastoral Visitor will visit and will also inform me if I need to be aware of a change of circumstance. The Methodist Worship Book says that Pastoral Visitors pray regularly for those in their care, share in their joys and give comfort in times of sorrow or need.

Each year we have the opportunity to commission our Pastoral Visitors. We will be doing this as part of out morning worship on 11th October. Please remember our Pastoral Visitors in your prayers. They fulfil a wonderful role within the life of the church.

With pastoral greetings,

Hilary

Rachel Lampard

We have all been delighted to hear that Rachel has been elected as Vice President designate of the Methodist Conference for 2015/16. But what does that mean?

Methodist Conference is the decision-making body of Methodism. Each year at the Methodist Conference, the following year’s President (always an ordained presbyter) and Vice-President (always a lay person or deacon) are elected.

John Wesley himself was the original President of the Methodist Conference, but after his death it was agreed that, in future, so much authority would not be placed in the hands of one individual.

Instead, the President would be elected for one year only, to sit in Wesley’s chair. Then, when lay people were admitted to the Conference in 1878, a lay Vice-President was also elected, and the two now serve in partnership.

The President and Vice-President follow Wesley’s example, travelling the length and breadth of Great Britain during their term of office. Former Presidents and Vice-Presidents often continue to exercise influence in senior Methodist committees and decision making bodies after their term of office. However, overall, the main commitment is 3 years. Therefore, this year, as VP Designate, she will learn about the role, agree the commitments she will make, sit on various groups and plan her year as VP. Then in the year 16/17 she is the Vice President and in the year 17/18 she is the ex-VP – still serving on various groups, but winding down. This means that there are always six people who make up the Presidency and share this leadership role at any one time.

In her Vice-Presidential year, Rachel and the President (who will be Revd Roger Walton) will chair the Methodist Conference. Conference is held in a different place each year, and next year’s Conference, where Rachel will be inducted and give her Vice Presidential address, will be at Methodist Central Hall in London. She hopes that many of us from Winchester Road will be able to attend so do put 2nd July 2016 in your diary. Tickets are free but have to be booked around Easter – details will be published here at that time.

Methodist Conference can be a very inspiring and spirit-filled event, it is also very procedural so Rachel will have to learn the rules of debate! Conference is also the place where the Church receives its new ministers and deacons into full connexion and ordains them. Being part of that will be a very special experience.

During her year as VP Rachel has a “ministry of visitation” visiting circuits and districts around the country, sharing with them in various ways. The VP also chooses a theme for their year which thy explore with churches as part of these visits. With Rachel’s deep commitment to the Church’s call to speak and act for justice in the world, we can expect that to resonate within her theme.

Rachel is also keen to use this opportunity to meet with other young church groups like our own Biscuit Club and she will visit the Methodist Church in another part of the world. This is likely to be the Asia or the Pacific region.

Rachel will share in the leadership within the Church through her term of office, and over the three years, working closely with the other members of the Presidency, the District Chairs, and the Secretary of Conference. This work, alongside the visits around the Connexion, will broaden her sense of the challenges and excitements within Methodism today.

Unfortunately for her, Rachel will not get a year off from her day job to do this. It will be on top of (and have to fit around) her three day per week job as Leader of the Joint Public Issues Team of the Methodist Church. She will therefore have to travel a lot at weekends. She hopes that Steve, Benedict, Martha and Toby will join her sometimes to share some of her experiences. It will be a challenging year for them as a family, but Rachel hopes it will introduce the children to another side of their Mum and inspire them all through seeing Methodism “in all its glory”.

Rachel took the decision to stand with the full support of Steve and the family. Both Rachel and Steve’s parents supported the decision and will help them out. I know that they will be able to count on the support, assistance and prayers of Winchester Road’s congregation too, not least in accepting that they will not be as active and as heavily involved in the life of our Church during her year of office.

Rachel commented that she “feels humbled and very excited by her appointment and is looking forward to meeting with other Methodists, celebrating a shared Christian commitment to justice and to exploring with others what it means to follow Jesus today”.

I am sure we will all pray for Rachel and the whole family throughout her term of office and I hope that we too may be inspired by all we learn from her experience.

Adele Bird

The Captives Hymn—Margaret Dryburgh

Hilary’s service in August and the BBC Songs of Praise the same afternoon gave me the starting points for this article. That week marked the 70^th anniversary of the dropping of the first atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima ( August 6^th 1945) and Nagasaki (August 9^th). A few days later the Japanese surrendered and peace was signed on September 2^nd). In Britain August 15^th is recognised as VJ Day though the Americans mark it on September 2^nd the anniversary of the signing of the peace. In the service Hilary with Peter Richardson led a meditation on this theme inviting us to remember the dropping of the bombs and pledge that such events should never happen again.

Songs of Praise dwelt on the 70^th anniversary of the end of the Japanese war introduced by Bill Turnbull from the National Arboretum. The National Arboretum in Staffordshire recognises those who died in the service of the country and has 300 memorials set in over 50,000 trees and covers approximately 150 acres.

Pam Rhodes introduced us to Jane Elgey, who aged 12, was captured in 1942 along with her Mother, Grandmother and four siblings trying to escape from Singapore which had fallen to the Japanese. They were moved through several internment camps in Sumatra by their captors. She graphically described the conditions in the internment camps where they were held, the rancid and weevil infested food and the cruelty of the guards which the inmates had to endure. She told the remarkable story of a fellow prisoner Margaret Dryburgh.

Margaret Dryburgh, the daughter of a Presbyterian Minister, was born in Sunderland. She qualified as a teacher but after six years teaching in England she decided to become a missionary and added nursing to her skills before taking a post in China in 1919. Later she moved to Singapore to become headmistress of a school where she raised its reputation both academically and musically. At the fall of Singapore she and other missionaries were taken to internment camps in Sumatra. It was there that she met Nora Chambers who was a trained musician who had played the violin in orchestras under the baton of Sir Henry Wood. In the camps where the women suffered malaria, dysentery and morale was at its lowest Margaret cared for those around her, formed a choir and led services.

Norah suggested that they should form a vocal orchestra where women’s voices would take the parts of the instruments of the orchestra to sing popular classical music. Margaret was a skilled music copyist who recalled the music and wrote out the parts for the singers. They gave concerts at the camp until weakness and death depleted their ‘vocal orchestra’. One member of the camp recalled The singers sat on little stools, too weak from malnutrition and disease to stand a long time. They wore faded, patched dresses or shorts and sun-tops. They were barefoot. Bandages around their legs covered tropical sores Some of us wept. We had not expected such beauty among the cockroaches, the rats, the bedbugs, the lice, and the smell of the latrines. The concert renewed our sense of human dignity. It gave us courage to go on”. Their story led to the TV series ‘Tenko’ set in a camp and to the film Paradise Road based on the choir and recounted life in a camp housing women from different nations and starred Glenn Close with Pauline Collins playing Margaret Drummond a character based on Margaret Dryburgh.

An important part of Margaret’s role at the camps was the leading of worship for which she wrote the words and music of a hymn which was sung each week. A handwritten copy of the words and melody has survived and from it the so called ‘Captive’s Hymn was published. A women’s choir was formed by Songs Of Praise to sing the hymn for Jane Elgey.

Norah Chambers survived the war but Margaret, aged 55, died of dysentery in April 1945, following the transfer of the group to another camp and was buried there by her fellow prisoners. The hymn begins;

Father in captivity

We would lift our prayers to thee,

Keep us ever in thy love.

The following verses ask God to give us patience to endure, and prays for Country and then for our loved ones. The final verse looks to the future, words sung hopefully by captive women living in a brutal, abusive environment surrounded by death.

May the day of freedom dawn

Peace and justice be reborn

Grant that nations loving Thee

O’er the world may brothers be,

Cleansed by suffering, know rebirth,

See Thy kingdom come on earth.

On Saturday the anniversary of VJ Day was marked by a moving service at St Martin’s in the Field attended by the Queen, veterans and families of those who served in the Far East during the war.

Allen Steel

CHRISTIAN AID NEWS

Thank you to everyone who came to the service and stayed for lunch on the 26th July. We raised £103. Our preacher Chris encouraged us to continue to try and walk in the shoes of others and pray for people to be lifted out of poverty. It made me think about my own prayer life and what we can do collectively as a church.

If you have any thoughts or ideas let me know.

Susan Knights

Haven House Children’s Hospice Summer Fayre

Thank you to all who contributed Cakes & Preserves or gave a donation to that stall. We made a grand total of £548.24.

The Fayre was a great success for H.H. and raised £12,000 in total.

Judy Iles

WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON FELLOWSHIP

1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 2.30pm until about 4.00pm

SEPTEMBER 2nd My life as a health visitor Olive Wimble

16th Mars Bars and Bananas Kate Poole

OCTOBER 7th An engagement with World War 1 Rev Richard Mortimer

21st The Tolpuddle Martyrs Ian Leadley

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Saturday 3rd October Craft Fayre

Sunday 4th October Harvest Festival, Parade Service and

All Age Worship

Saturday 28th November Christmas Bazaar

Can you hear me?

At Winchester Road, we are very blessed to have a sound desk and the technical ability to project words and images onto a screen. We are equally blessed to have people within our congregation who can operate the sound and visual technology. Much as we would like to have a regular organist, that is not the case at present, and we are learning to sing to hymns and songs played through the sound system. This is a learning curve for those producing the sound, and for us as a congregation.

I understand that neither system is difficult to work. We are in need of a few more people who would be willing to learn how to operate the sound system and/or the power point projector. If you can help in any way, even if it is only once a month, please speak to one of the stewards. As we adjust to singing to the CD’s there have been a few teething problems. Please exercise patience. If you are concerned, please speak to one of the Stewards.

Hilary

Badminton Club

Do you play badminton or want to learn?

We are looking for new members!

We play in the Memorial hall every Thursday 8pm – 10pm.

We welcome players of all ages and abilities.

Membership costs £10 per term and a payment of £1 each evening.

Under 16’s and those still in full time education pay £5 per term and 50p each evening.

Our first evening of play will be Thursday 10^th September 2015.

We look forward to seeing you!

FINANCES

Monthly offertory collections have been as follows;

June £3,069.34

July £3,070.41

Janice

BAPTISM

On Sunday 5th July we welcomed, by baptism into our Church family the Agbalenyo family. Their father Wilson Kwashie, and the children Joel Junior, Davinia Efwa, Larissa Akosia and Jason Kofi Junior.

At the same service it was lovely to also welcome their mother Bridget Mensah who has transferred her membership to Winchester.

We hope they will be very happy worshipping with us.

Jonathan Pease will be performing in the Waltham Abbey lunchtime recital series at 12.30 pm on Saturday 19th September. He and Nicola Hands, an accomplished oboe player, are presenting a short programme of classical music for piano and oboe.

Admission is free with a retiring collection. Further details will be available on the Waltham Abbey website in the near future.

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP

Earlier this year we re-introduced Contemporary Worship once a month at church. Contemporary worship is a more modern form of service. At our services, we sit round tables in the Hub and refreshments are available throughout the service. We have been blessed to have our singing group, Spirit, to accompany us from time to time. Worship is more verbally participative than a traditional morning service and sharing in small groups and taking part in an activity have featured. Why not come and join us. The next service is on 27th September at 4pm and will be led by Mrs Mmasape Zihle

Everyone is welcome!

CONGRATULATIONS

To Dorothy and Ron Clarke

who are celebrating their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on the 10th September

SHOE BOXES

I will be starting to pack the boxes for Operation Christmas Child at the end of September. If you have any shoeboxes could you put them in the tub at the back of the Church as I will not have time to cover them once I start packing.

We are very short of flannels as I cannot find any costing under a pound, in previous years they were four for pound. Boys toys are always welcome. We need gloves, scarves and hand puppets. I have plenty of hats. No bubbles, liquids or playing cards. Christmas cards, but not religious ones, as I put a card in each one with names from everyone on the Pastoral List.

Last year we had to give three pounds towards travelling and expenses for each box, hopefully it won’t be more this year. If you would like to give money towards the cost please let me have it and I will count how many boxes we send and try and give Janice as much as we can towards them.

Many thanks.

Sylvia Dixon

Loving Father,

Please help us with all the new things September brings, a new school year, new stages of life, with children moving on or out, new challenges for many as summer gives way to autumn.

Help us in this season of change to know the constant reality of Jesus. Thank you for the new life He freely offers to all who turn to Him.

In Jesus’ name.

Amen

SMILE LINES – OFF TO SCHOOL

Mother to young daughter after first day at school: “Well dear, what did they teach you today?””

Daughter: “Not much, I’ve got to go back again tomorrow.”

‘Ready for the Journey’

Monday 17^th August saw the start of the 9^th Holiday Club at the church led by Laura Pease.

This year the theme was ‘Journeys’ and we heard about journeys in the Bible, starting with Moses and the Israelites. From the New Testament we heard the parables of The Good Samaritan and The Prodigal Son before ending the week with Jesus’ journey into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and the journeys of Paul.

The children were able to make bread (manna) and some gory fondant representations of the stranger left on the roadside in the story of the Good Samaritan. Pictures from coloured sand proved popular even if we were sweeping up the sand for the rest of the week!! Other activities included making donkey biscuits (Palm Sunday) as well as Palm crosses and wavers. The children also worked together on a picture about their journeys which you will be able to see later this month, displayed in one of the windows for the Harvest Service.

All the children enjoyed a variety of games linked to the different stories, including the, now traditional, sock fight. They also had the chance to act out the story of the Prodigal Son.

We were not able to go to Mallinson’s this year for our picnic but did go to Rolls Park and, having eaten the picnic they had made themselves in the morning, the children were free to play games including tennis on the courts. We finished the afternoon with some parachute games and songs. Many thanks to the Chingford Tennis School who gave us access to their premises.

On Sunday the congregation got a chance to share some of the activities including some action songs. There was 17 children , 4 young leaders and 5 younger siblings present from the club.

41 children came along and all seemed to enjoy the week. We had one of the best group of singers, who joined in enthusiastically from the start. We were able to welcome some new children but many had returned having enjoyed the Holiday Club in previous years.

Thanks go to the record number of adults who gave up their time to give the children a warm welcome and help them think about journeys with God and also Sam, Gabby, Sophie, Angelina and Millie our young team leaders.

As some children were missing on Friday, having gone on a camping trip, those remaining had to work extra hard to produce cakes which were sold in aid of the Methodist charity “All We Can” which helps people in times of crisis.

The cake sale raised £90 and the parents of the children gave a generous donation to the Church.

We look forward now to our 10^th Holiday Club in 2016!!!!

Jan Dent

It was a wonderful service on Sunday. We could see how much the children had enjoyed the week.

CRAFT FAYRE

Not long now until our Craft Fayre and I am desperate for help with the following….

to deliver leaflets to the streets around the Church. Even if you can only do one street it would be a great help. Ideally the leaflets need to be delivered approximately one week before the Craft Fayre
Taking money on the door
Manning the cake stall
Baking cakes
Helping with the refreshments

There are a number of stalls left if you know someone who would be interested.

If you can help me with any of these please call or text me on 07702165456 or email me on Deborah_Crawford@hotmail.com

Guide visit to Switzerland

At the end of July, 31 girls and 10 leaders from across the Guide County left for an International Adventure to Switzerland. 14 of the girls came from Winchester units along with 7 of the leaders.

We travelled by coach to Paris – no trouble at Dover thankfully – where we stayed in a hotel for the night. Next morning we set off for a day in EuroDisney. The girls were very excited about this and were quickly sporting Minnie Mouse ears and debating which rides to go on first. A great day was enjoyed by all.

Once in Switzerland we visited ‘Our Chalet’ which is one of 4 Guide International Centres around the world. We hiked through some beautiful Alpine Scenery – often reaching high areas by cable car and enjoyed a delicious buffet at a local Alp top restaurant for a Swiss night of traditional music and song.

For excursions and activities we took the Rothornbahn – a mountain steam railway to the top of an Alp with extensive views then had a ride on a paddle steamer down Lake Brienz. We took the highest mountain railway in the world to the top of the Jungfrau where the girls were able to sledge in real snow and visit an ice palace. At Kandersteg we went tobogganing down a hillside and hiked to the beautiful Lake Oechinsee. Many of the group experienced white water rafting and they all visited the Adventure Park where they used a series of zip wires, a high rope bridge and a leap of faith at the end of the course.

The weather was hot and we didn’t need our waterproofs once. The leaders worked well together and the girls all made new friends and have had an experience to remember.

One Aspect of the World Scout Jamboree Experience in Japan 2015

At 8:15am on the 6^th August 1945, a bomb dropped out of the bottom of a plane that was flying over the city of Hiroshima in the south of Japan.

At 8:15am on the 6^th August 2015, I joined 36,000 Scouts from around the world, and indeed with the whole nation of Japan, in a minutes silence to commemorate all those who died that day, and after, from that single bomb. Two days before, we visited the city of Hiroshima and explored the Memorial Park that has been built in the place of the homes, markets and streets that once made up the city.

The Memorial Park is comprised of 4 sections:

The Peace Dome
The Memorial
The Memorial to Children in Conflict
The Museum

The Peace Dome is perhaps the most well-known part of the memorial. It was once a trading house in the heart of the business district of Hiroshima. Then, almost exactly 50m above its dome, the bomb exploded. One of the closest buildings to the hyper-centre, it defied all odds and remained standing. The most famous photos of Hiroshima feature The Peace Dome and the nuclear wastelands around it.

The Memorial itself is very understated, a simple piece of curved concrete with words of peace carved in Japanese around its base. From this base an infinity pool extends to a cauldron. The cauldron has a flame that has burnt since the park was opened in the 60’s and it will continue burning till all nuclear weapons are destroyed. It is a stark reminder that the tragedy that occurred here can, and very possibly will, occur again, and that all cities are at risk until these weapons are destroyed. That flame reminds us all of our vulnerability.

Perhaps the most moving part of the Memorial Park is the Memorial to Children in Conflict. This monument again is very simple and made of concrete. At its top however is a statue of a 12-year-old named Sadoka. In 1945 she was 2 years old and escaped from the bomb, seemingly unharmed. However, her mother and grandmother were both killed and she was raised in Hiroshima, along with many other children in the same situation as her. At the age of 12 she was diagnosed with leukaemia. Whilst in the hospital she followed an old Japanese legend that if you make 1,000 origami cranes, your wish will be granted. Sadoka would run around the hospital collecting medicine wrappers to fold whilst her friends would bring what paper they could. When she died, she had made around 650. Her friends saw what she had left to do and made the remaining 350. Their wish was to end global conflicts in which children are involved. They started a fund in their schools and eventually around Japan and then around the world. They raised enough to build the memorial and now Sadoka stands, holding a peace crane, forever.

Around the base of the memorial are see-through perspex cases with runners on the top to which visitors to the site attach strings full of peace cranes that they have made in memory of Hiroshima and Sadoka. There are around 50,000 cranes there at any one time.

The final part of the memorial is the Museum. This Museum reminds the visitors of the context of all the different constituent parts of the memorial. The exhibits themselves do also say an awful lot about the disaster – a tricycle with its melted, twisted metal that was being ridden by a small child when the bomb dropped, Sadoka’s cranes and a shadow left on a step from a vaporised person. The exhibits really do emphasise the enormity of the tragedy and the importance of this city as a reminder of what occurred and the legacy of hardship it left.

The visit to Hiroshima was one of the most moving and incredible parts of my Jamboree experience to Japan with the Scouts. Now, so soon after the 70^th anniversary of the bomb, it is important to look back and remember what occurred, but also to look forward and that is to the formation of Japan’s first army for 70 years and the ever-growing threat of war, and to pray that we can find and maintain peace.

Matthew Bird

AND THE CONGREGATION REPLIED…

Down in the Southern United States, there are many churches known as ‘answer back’ churches. When the preacher says something the congregation naturally replies.

One Sunday, a preacher was speaking on what it would take for the church to become better. He said, “If this church is to become better, it must take up it’s bed and walk. The congregation replied “Let it walk, Preacher, let it walk”.

Encouraged by their response he said, “If this church is going is going to be better, it will have to throw off it’s hindrances and run!” The congregation chanted “Let it run, Preacher, let it run!”

Now really into his message, he declared, “If this church really wants to become great, it will have to take up its wings and fly!” “Let it fly, let it fly, Preacher, let it fly!” the congregation shouted.

The preacher then bellowed, “If this church is going to fly, it will cost money!”

Whereupon the congregation murmured softly, “Let it walk, preacher, let it walk.”

JULY/AUGUST 2015 NEWSLETTER

JULY/AUGUST NEWSLETTER

A letter from our Minister

Dear Everyone,

I recently attended my first game of Ultimate Frisbee as a spectator. Knowing very little about the sport, other than it looks like throwing a disc-shaped object known as a frisbee, and knowing a few phrases such as , a layout, a swing and dump, I was very interested to see the game in action.

Unlike other sports, when one or two points have been scored, the team of seven players is changed to a different set of seven, but all still on the same side. They swap again when further points are scored. I can see the value in this, in that it gives the players a brief rest from the intensity of the pitch, before they go on again.

Reading the rules of the game, which talk about the field, who initiates play, movement of the disc, no physical contact, fouls and scoring, I was interested to read the last two rules. The first told me that the game is self-refereeing, so the players have to decide what happened and act appropriately. Interestingly, I watched this being played out when ‘offside’ was called. A player from the offending team decided that her team was at fault, and the other side took the next throw. I was impressed with the honesty of those playing.

The last rule is called, ‘Spirit of the game – Ultimate stresses sportsmanship and fair play. Competitive play is encouraged but never at the expense of respect between players, adherence to the rules and the basic joy of play’. This last rule really spoke to me as it emphasises the underlying purpose of the game, which appears to be the joy of playing and the respect for others.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if society was as fair-minded as this? Sadly in our world today, we fall far short of respecting the views and opinions of others. If we tried to live by this rule, I would hope that our churches, communities, and relationships across the nations would be much fairer and kinder towards each other.

We could practise doing this in our daily living for the next month and see how we feel in four weeks time. You never know, it could become a way of life.

Yours respectfully,

Hilary

Finances

Monthly offertory collections have been as follows;

April £3,163.28

May £3,330.24

Janice

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

JULY

Sat 11th Highams Park Day—the Church runs the refreshment stall

Sat 18th 10.00am-4.oopm Coffee Morning

Sun 26th 10.30am Christian Aid Service followed by lunch

and Circuit events

Sun 26th July 6.30pm Farewell Service to Rev Michael Moon at Loughton

Sun 23rd Aug 6.00pm Welcome Service for Rev Nigel Cowgill as Chair, London Methodist District at Hinde Street

CREAM TEA CRUISE

Monday 3rd August

The cruise starts from Broxbourne at 2,15pm and returns around 4.30pm. Transport will be provided.

I have several spaces available. Please see me if you wish to go.

Mary Burgoine

CONGRATULATIONS to Pat and David Ovenden on the birth of their second grandchild, Liam, a brother for Megan.

Young Church Anniversary 2015 – Stay Connected

This year the Young Church celebrated their anniversary with a difference. They shared with the congregation what they had learnt on Sunday mornings about ‘Staying Connected’.

The opening prayers were written and read by the older group, (Biscuit Club). This was followed by the younger children (Downstairs Group) performing a role play about the boy and the vine. Then Alice read us a bible reading that told us that Jesus is our vine and if we stay connected to him, he will stay with us.

Following this, the Downstairs Group performed another role play about the growing vine which tells us that Jesus’ love for us is always growing. This led into the two songs that they performed for us.

Then the Biscuit Club showed us a game they had played previously. The game tells us that it is not how you follow Jesus, it is the way you follow him. The game is where you take an action and an adverb and you have to act them out. A big thank you to Dillon’s mum, Dean’s mum and Lindelwa’s dad for bravely volunteering to take part in the activity.

Another role play from Toby, Martha and Joel showed us an example of one of the fruits of the vine; in this case it was ‘goodness.’ Then, the Biscuit Club read the prayers of intercession, which, once again, were composed by them. To end this amazing service, the Downstairs Group read a ‘Stay Connected’ poem.

Thank you to the Young Church Leaders for helping put together this service, and thanks to Louise and Angelina for stepping in to new roles at the last minute.

Louise Bygrave

Mum Yvonne playing a guitar.

It’s not what you do – it’s the

way that you do it!

WINCHESTER’S GOT TALENT!

Margaret and I are probably two of the very few people in the country never to have seen ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent – the BBC’s The Good Old Days is more our era – but who needs it when we had our very own Winchester Road talent show on Sunday 7th June. It was an afternoon of memorable music and song from stage and film to suit all tastes and ages. Let’s mention the visiting guest artistes first.

David Bhola opened with an organ piece from the musical Chess and later played three other pieces from film themes. The Men of Harlech from Zulu was particularly rousing stuff. Stanley Nije gave us spirited piano extracts from Dream Girls and the unforgettable Titanic and, in the second half, conducted the Leytonstone Methodist Youth Choir. They have a superb feeling for movement and harmony and brought quite a new sound to Edelweiss.

There was a surprise visit in the shape of Stewart Yeff, a self-taught pianist and artist (check him out on YouTube) who entertained us with his own unique style of music and song. Surely though in terms of quantity as well as quality, the accolade must go to Chris Carpenter, who not only accompanied many of the other solo artistes but also gave us a stylish piano performance plus piano accordion medleys from Fiddler on the Roof. She also directed (as well as paying the keyboard!) the Sing, Sing, Sing Choir. They sing with great panache and I particularly liked If the rain’s got to fall from Half a Sixpence.

On the home-grown talent front (Your own, your very own! remember Leonard Sachs?) Dorothy Barr took us back down Memory Lane with songs from Perchance to Dream and Showboat. I so enjoyed hearing We’ll gather Lilacs again. Maureen Duncan gave us two quite brilliant readings, Gus by T S Elliot is pretty well known but I wish I was a Musical was new to me; a wistful and strangely sad little poem. Alice Evans was without doubt the youngest performer at the event. If she had nerves it certainly didn’t show and her violin playing brought the film music to life. The winner had to be the James Bond Theme from Dr No.

How does Janice Pettit find time to play a clarinet as well as carry out all her other Winchester activities? She brought us pieces from stage and film, and if I had to choose, my favourite would be the lyrical Summertime from Porgy and Bess. Spirit, in the shape of Don Clark and Graham Palmer brought us their usual polished close harmony vocals and guitar, nice to meet Mrs Robinson again from the film The Graduate. Steve Walker gave the expected bravura vocal/piano performances. I was especially touched to hear Danny Boy and Steve did, of course, have the right key to reach the top note. It’s a song to catch out the unwary, inexperienced or inebriated.

Our own Minister, Rev Hilary Cheng, compered the event with briskness, clarity and humour. Who says that Jonathan Mead would be a hard act to follow? Additionally, there must be a host of backroom boys and girls who worked behind the scenes to make the event such a success, and to them, as well as all the artistes, we give a huge “Thank You”.

David Watson

The concert raised £634.05 for Church Funds.

DO YOU NEED A NEW PAIN-KILLER?

Do you ever take pain-killers? If so, do you take one for your shoulder, and another for your knee? Of course not – once the pain-killer enters your bloodstream, it goes everywhere, soothing and damping down the pain, and hitting all the right spots.

God works a bit like that on the pain in our lives. He is a prescription for ALL the problem areas of our lives. Most of us carry emotional scars, or a burden, or some heartache around with us. It may be the trauma of loss, it may be uncertainty over our jobs, and our futures.

Whatever it is God offers us a prescription to help the pain. The Psalmist writes “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble”. (Psalm 46:1). Jesus added, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”. (Matthew 11:28).

This kind of help is real and immediate and there for the asking. We don’t have to put up with our dis-ease and struggle alone. God, our Heavenly Father is only a prayer away. Not just twice a day, after meals, but whenever we need Him.

In a little over a months time, Kat Cheng will be representing Great Britain in Ultimate Frisbee The Under 23 International Tournament takes place mid July right on our doorstep near St Albans. Kat got involved with the sport at University and has been playing for 3.5 years.

What is Ultimate Frisbee, I hear you ask? It’s a team game involving a flying disc and the aim is to move the disc from one end of the pitch to the other, catching it in the endzone to score a point. However, you cannot move when you have the disc, so in order to move the disc upfield, it must be thrown from player to player, continuing the flow of the game. The defending team takes possession if the disc touches the ground, by making an interception or knocking it to the ground mid-flight. The game is non-contact and the winning team is the first to reach a decided number of goals.

Outside of Team GB, Kat also plays for the current National and European Women’s Club Champions Iceni, based in Clapham. She trains regularly, doing throwing, sprints, gym and team field sessions as well as being a full time nurse.

Ideal outcome of this year – a medal on home turf! She wants to showcase this sport that she loves and hopes it will have a ripple effect, encouraging others to take up the fast-growing sport. She says it’s a lot of fun, and hopes the hard work and dedication she’s put in will pay off!

Hilary

WESLEY DAY PILGRIMAGE

Thirty members of the Circuit (half from Lighthouse) shared in the Wesley Day Pilgrimage on the 24th May, the anniversary of John Wesley’s conversion experience. Travelling by different routes we all met on the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral, where Wesley had attended Evensong on the 24th May. The Cathedral was packed, mainly with Methodists from all over the world, for the awe inspiring service in which the sound of the organ and choir echoed around the vast building. The sermon was preached by the Revd Kenneth Howcroft, the President of the Methodist Conference, in which he reminded us of the unique and powerful experience that Wesley had, and its continuing importance through the work of the Methodist Church.

Afterwards we joined friends from Wesley’s Chapel at the statue of John Wesley in the graveyard outside St Paul’s before walking to the Museum of London and the Wesley Flame outside its entrance. It stands where Aldersgate Street ‘disappears’ beneath the Museum and is the most prominent place for the memorial to where his conversion took place. The memorial is a bronze representation of a flame with the words from his Journal printed on it, describing how he felt his heart ‘strangely warmed’ an experience which led to the creation of the \Methodist Church, which now numbers over 80 million members throughout the world. After we had read the words we ended the pilgrimage with one of Wesley’s prayers.

Some pilgrims had heard news of the possibility that the Museum of London may be closing some years in the future and moving to a new site at Smithfields. If this does happen we will all want to ensure that the flame memorial is not lost or relocated in a less prominent place. It is a great testimony to the living vitality of Methodism today.

Judith and John Lampard

CREAM TEA

Many thanks to all who supported our Cream Tea and helped to raise £425 for church funds from donations for cream teas and plants.

With David not being so well now we could not have done it without the help setting up, clearing up, serving teas and donating plants .

It was great to see many people – we make it 97 which is far more than usual. There was a lot of support from friends and neighbours as well as the church family and it was good to see people who had not been before.

The weather was good so it was smiles all round and let’s make it 100 next year.

Pat and David Ovenden

PRAYER TO GOD, OUR FOODBANK

Father

People are hungry. Some are hungry for food,

and we ask that you will help us to help them

by our compassion and generosity.

Thank you for Foodbanks, forgive us that they are necessary.

But even well-fed people are hungry, hungry for meaning in life.

Thank you that you have given us the ultimate Foodbank

in the gift of Jesus, who is the Way, the Truth and the Light,

Help us to walk His Way,

to know Him as Truth and to receive His Life

and to be truly satisfied.

In Jesus’ name.

Amen

CAN YOU HELP? Craft Fair – Saturday 3rd October

As well as welcoming any donations of handmade items to sell on our Church stall at the Craft Fair I am desperate for help with the following:

To deliver A5 flyers around the Church and neighbouring roads (to go out approximately 2 weeks before the Craft Fair
To stand by the door and take entry fees on the day
To man the Church stall
To bake cakes to sell for refreshments.

If you can help please call077021654 or email on Deborah_crawford@hotmail.com

Make a splash and raise money by taking part in our sponsored swim event!

It is open to anyone. You can take part as an Individual, as a member of a team with your group or uniformed sections.

It is a great way to challenge yourself and you will be swimming to support our church community building fund at the same time.

Saturday 26^th September at

The Forest School, College Place E17 3PY

For further details and to register,

Please take a form, complete and post back in the box by the notice board or email:

michaelhayward15@hotmail.com

HIGHAMS PARK DAY

Saturday 11th July

Vincent Green – Vincent Road

We have been asked to run the Refreshment Stall again this year and will be extending our merchandise with sandwiches and crisps.

This is an ideal opportunity to promote the Church to the people of Highams Park and we also raised £500 last year.

To run this efficiently we need a rota of people prepared to help. We need 5 people for 3 x 2 hour shifts.

10.30 – 12.30 Helping set up teas, cakes and sandwich making

12.30 – 2.30 Teas, cakes and sandwich making

2.30 – 4.30 Teas, sandwich making and clearing up

If you can help at any of these times – or if you can offer cakes – please see Maureen by Sunday the 5th July.

In addition to the Church running the Refreshment Stall, Sylvia will have a Traidcraft Stall, Sharon will be selling embroidery and Mary will have the ‘Nigeria Health Care Project’ stall selling items for the rural poor in Nigeria.

Many thanks in advance.

Janice

Sharon will also be having a stall at the Farmer’s Market on Sunday 26th July.

WOMAN TO WOMAN Premier Christian Radio

Hilary and Leo were interviewed by Lucinda van der Hart on Friday 12th June . They spoke about their work on the Mercy Ships.

You can listen to them if you follow the link

http://www.premierchristianradio.com/Shows/Weekday/Woman-to-Woman/Episodes/Woman-to-Woman261

About 35 people enjoyed a relaxing afternoon watching as Hilary Cheng demonstrated her skills of Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging.

The simplicity of the arrangements was impressive, as single blooms, or a few selected flowers, were placed in special containers to create unusual and eye-catching displays.

At the end of the afternoon, as we all enjoyed tea and cakes, the displays were raffled and people took home the components to re=create the arrangements for themselves.

On Sunday morning the congregation were able to see arrangements inspired by Hilary’s demonstration and arranged by Pat Sullivan.

It was an enjoyable afternoon and good to see people from different Churches as well as various groups that meet at the Church. A very big thank you to Hilary . The afternoon raised £170 for Church funds.

Jan Dent

BARRIE BATES

I know that many of you will remember Barrie who died on May 22^nd at his home in March, Cambridgeshire.

He and Pat married at Handsworth Avenue Church where they had met at the Youth Club and throughout their married life were both active in the life of the Church. In later years he was a member of the Church Council which undertook the project which demolished the old Church and adapted the more modern hall into a dual purpose worship and community building. It was sad that despite all the effort that he and others put into the Church its membership continued to dwindle and it closed.

They had attended Winchester Guild and the Wednesday Fellowship and so when Handsworth closed they transferred their membership to Winchester and Barrie was persuaded to become a steward here.

They decided to move to March to be nearer to their daughter Helen and joined the Trinity Methodist /URC Ecumenical project.

Throughout his adult life Barrie gave great service to the church and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him and will especially missed by his three daughters, Jackie, Kate and Helen.

For me he was a life long good friend, as our mothers were friends, and he was able to claim that he was older than me by just seven days.

Allen Steel.

Jo Henderson and Alex Fletcher would like to thank everyone who sponsored them in the Cancer Research Race UK 5 for Life at Enfield on the 14th June. Together we raised a total of £399, some of which will receive Gift Aid on top.

We hope to take part in 2016. Thanks again for your support.

Jo and Alex

HELP WANTED

A sign was hung in an office window. It read:

Help wanted

Must type 70 words a minute

Must be computer literate

Must be bilingual

An equal opportunity employer

A dog was ambling down the street and saw the sign. He looked at it for a moment, and pulled it down with his mouth, and walked into the manager’s office, making it clear he wished to apply for the job.

The office manager laughed and said, “I can’t hire a dog for this job”. The dog pointed at the line, “An equal opportunity employer”.

So the manager said, “Take this letter and type it.” The dog went off to the word processor and returned a minute later with the finished letter, perfectly formatted.

The manager said, “Alright, here’s a problem. Write a computer programme for it and run it”. Fifteen minutes later, the dog came back with the correct answer.

The manager still wasn’t convinced. “I still can’t hire you for this position. You’ve got to be bilingual”.

The dog looked at the manager and said, “Meow”.

JUNE 2015 NEWSLETTER

A letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

Last week, I was reading an article in a magazine, about a new prefix that has been created. We are familiar with titles such as Prof, Dr, Rev, Mr, Mrs, Miss and Ms. A new one has been added to the list, Mx, and I understand is a gender neutral prefix. We are all familiar with filling out forms of one kind or another, where our title is requested. Soon this new prefix will be in use along with the others.

Titles and names are important. They tell us some thing about the person, and are one way in which we identify ourselves. Some people have many different titles, whereas most of us just have one. We live in a fast changing world and sometimes it is hard to keep up with the many alterations that are taking place.

Jesus had many titles. Different people called him by different names. He is known as Lord, the Messiah, Emmanuel, shepherd, brother, friend, Prince of Peace, to mention but a few. You will have your way of referring to Jesus just as I have mine. Sometimes when I am in company where people take Christ’s name in vain, I find myself receiving an apology as no offence was meant.

However we refer to Jesus, and whatever title we use, remember that he always loves to hear from us and is constantly available to listen. He shares our darkest moments with us but is open to receiving our thanks when things are going well too. When things go wrong and we need forgiveness, Jesus is willing to hear our prayer and to share our sorrow, restoring us to newness of life.

Every blessing

Hilary

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

JUNE

Thurs 4th—Thurs 9th July Cooking on a budget

(see page 16 for details)

Sat 6th 3,00-5.00pm Cream Tea

Sun 7th 3.00-5.00pm Concert—”Music and songs from the Shows”

Fri 12th 2.30-4.30pm Ikebana Flower Arranging

(see page 19 for ore details)

demonstration by Rev Hilary Cheng

Sat 20th 10.001m-4.00pm JMA Coffee Morning

Sun 28th 4.00pm Contemporary Worship

JULY

Sat 11th Highams Park Day—the Church runs the refreshment stall

Sat 18th 10.00am-4.oopm Coffee Morning

Sun 26th 10.30am Christian Aid Service followed by lunch

and Circuit events

Sun 6th June 6.30pm Diversity Service at Shernhall

You are invited to wear national costume

Sun 21st June 6.30pm Farewell service to Rev Dr Stuart Jordan

(outgoing Chair) at Westminster Central Hall

Sun 26th July 6.30pm Farewell Service to Rev Michael Moon at Loughton

Sunn23rd Aug 6.00pm Welcome Service for Rev Nigel Cowgill as Chair London Methodist District at Hinde Street

FAREWELL TO JONATHAN PEASE

On Sunday 17th May we said farewell to Jonathan who has been our organist and pianist for some considerable time. He was presented with a token and a card.

He has taken up a post as Director of Music at Christ Church, a large Anglican Church on the Isle of Dogs, very near to Island Gardens Station.

The Church was built in Victorian times and has not one but two organs! He is looking forward to the challenge of his new post. As well as playing for services, he will be working with the Vicar to develop the musical life of the Church. He will be responsible for a robed 4 part choir and a children’s choir and will be doing some work with the Church School.

We wish him success in his new post and we thank him for all he has done for Winchester, from playing the organ and piano, to working with the Holiday Club.

And we look forward to seeing him from time to time.

Don’t forget us Jonathan!

CRAFT FAIR 2015

Our annual Craft Fair will be held this year on Saturday 3rd October between 10.00am and 3.00pm and I am looking for people that make and sell good quality hand made items awho would be interested in booking a stall at our fair. The cost of a stall is just £10.00. If you are interested please contact me on 07702165456 or e-mail me at Deborah_crawford@hotmail.com. Please note, in order to ensure a good mix of different crafts I am not taking any further bookings for card or jewellery stalls.

If you don’t wish to take a stall but have some handmade items tucked away I am always grateful for donations that we can sell on the Church stall. Please let me know and I will arrange collection.

If you have any questions please contact me. Thank you.

Debbie

CREAM TEA

3.00-5.00pm

at Pat and David Ovendens

DELICIOUS SCONES WITH CREAM

STRAWBERRY JAM

PLANTS FOR SALE

HANDMADE CARDS

PLEASE COME AND BRING YOUR FRIENDS

An excerpt from the Spring issue of ‘Wesley Guild’……

NHCP News

I have kept Gerald waiting for this article as Nigeria concluded its Presidential elections. As you probably know, there has been a successful and largely peaceful transition to a new President, Muhammadu Buhari, with international observers praising the process and ex-President Jonathan being gracious in defeat. We pray that the new administration will have more success in building a peaceful, prosperous and less corrupt country for all its citizens.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Health Care project has been reviewing its way of working. Most of the trustees were able to gather at Ashbourne Road Methodist Church/URC Church Derby for a strategic away day. This was the day of the partial eclipse, its half light as we travelled being replaced by full sun when we arrived. We were blessed to be joined by Deaconess Ronke Oworu, Health Secretary of the Methodist Church Nigeria and Dr Olubunmi Olayisade, Partnership Coordinator for Africa with the World Church Relationships Team of the Methodist Church in Britain.

We were very aware that it is the generous giving of Guilds, individuals, and churches which enables us to help provide health care to so many poor people in rural Nigeria. We heard that our funds are already sufficient to send out grants in July, which was most encouraging, but of course we would like to do even more!

We hope to run our next ‘training of trainers’ visit in November 2015 and plan to find work and more local ‘champions’ in Nigeria who can lead improvements in training or work with women’s groups to promote good health or develop awareness and fund-raising within Nigeria. Here in the UK we are gradually expanding the involvement of Nigerians living here and are keen to work with more younger people while continuing to nurture our links with our loyal supporters—you!

So thank you so much for all your support.

Dr David Cundall NHCP coordinator

METHODIST AFRICAN EDUCATION PIONEER

In the February Winchester News I wrote of how my father was able to attend University in the early 1930’s due to a scheme arranged between the Wesleyan Methodist College and the University of London which allowed their students to read a subject at UCL, LSE or King’s for the first three years of a four year course. Dad was one of the young men from working class backgrounds to benefit from this rare opportunity which also included a few overseas Methodist students.

One of these students became a close friend of Dad’s and I grew up with many amusing stories about him. He was probably the first black person our Cornish family had met. He was Francis Bartels from the Gold Coast, now Ghana, in West Africa. Dad introduced him to the delights of football and they also played in the college hockey team together.

In the early twentieth century British churches other than the Catholic Church made an agreement as to which denomination was to concentrate its future missionary activities in which African colony. This is sometimes regarded as the beginning of the ecumenical movement in the UK. Methodism, it was agreed was to be the lead church in the Gold Coast and continued to expand its educational activities.

Francis Bartels was born on March 13, 1910 at Barns Hill, attending Cape Coast Methodist Primary School before gaining a scholarship to the prestigious Mfantispim Methodist secondary boy’s school. It was from here he later gained a King Edward VII scholarship to Westminster College where he also studied at King’s, London.

He returned to his own country and took up an appointment at his old school educating boys, some of whom were to become prominent in Ghana. After having returned to England post war for further study at The Institute of Education, London, he obtained an MA with distinction followed by a year’s lecturing at Selly Oak College, Birmingham. In 1949 he became Headmaster of Mfantsipim. This was a double first for the school as he was not only the first African head but also the first layman, all his predecessors being English Methodist Ministers. In 1956 he was awarded the OBE, the year before Ghana gained its independence.

In 1961 he joined UNESCO, rising within that organisation to become Chief of the African Division. In 1969 he pursued an academic career at the University of Nairobi and then served as Ghana’s Ambassador to West Germany in Bonn, short by a coup in Ghana.

A local preacher and author, his books include ‘Roots of Ghanaian Methodism’, his autobiography, ‘Persistence of Paradox’ and ‘Journey of the African Maze: Indigenous and Higher Education in Tandem’. He spent most of his latter years living in Paris where he taught English at the Sorbonne from 1973-1978.

He lived to see his centenary where amongst the tributes paid was one from his most distinguished old boy Kofi Annan, former UN General Secretary who said, “For Headmaster Bartels, education was about the formation of character rather than the mere transmission of knowledge. The mind was not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be ignited”. He also referred to the bust of Bartels erected in the school in 1998 by former pupils which bore the inscription ‘He sought to make us greater than himself’.

I never met Francis Bartels but sometimes use his name as an icebreaker when I meet Ghanaians, many of whom have heard of him and once met a former pupil who worships at Trinity URC in Walthamstow. In 2001 whilst Mayor and Mayoress of Walthamstow, Janet and I attended a dinner arranged by the Mayor of Greenwich at which the High Commissioner for Ghana and his wife were principal guests. I told His Excellency the usual story only to gain the response, “Then you must meet his daughter”.. she was the Envoy’s wife.

I gave her y address and phone number and the next morning answered a call which to my amazement was from Francis himself in Paris. His daughter must have contacted him immediately– did she grow up hearing equally funny stories of a Cornishman who supported Plymouth Argyle I wonder? He spoke fondly of my late father and their college days together. Small world!

Francis Bartels died in Paris on the 20th March 2010 soon after his centenary. He was an African Methodist pioneer in education who has left a legacy for his nation, for Africa and the world.

Peter Dawe

Cancer Research UK:

Please note the following is the correct web address for anyone wishing to sponsor Jo and Alex in the Race for Life at Enfield on Sunday 14^th June:

Thank you.

Jo Henderson

CHRISTIAN AID

£339.50 has been sent to Christian Aid from the Church congregation. The door to door collection raised £384.36 with more money to come in.

That works out at nearly 5 cows or 144 mosquito nets for the developing world.

Well done and thank you for the support.

Susan Knights.

HOLIDAY CLUB 2015

17th — 21st August

The theme this year is ‘Ready for the Journey’

Times:

10.00am—12.45pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday

10.00am—3.30pm Wednesday

which includes a picnic and activities at Mallinson’s

10.30am—11.30pm on Sunday

Open to children 5—11 (reception—year 6)

Cost £12.50 for the week

*Look out for further details in the next few weeks*

GIRL’S NIGHT OUT

On a beautiful sunny and bright evening five of the Girls’ Night Out members enjoyed the peace and beauty of a stroll around Connaught Waters. Despite virtually living on top of this local beauty spot, we sometimes rarely take advantage of what is on our doorstop. As many of you will know the area has been greatly improved with the addition of a decent path and board walk making the lake and surrounding accessible to all.

It was just the sort of evening when your troubles flow away as you watch the calmness of the water and the antics of the wild life. The peace was disturbed briefly with the interruption of a noisy and ferocious dog who plunged into the lake with great gusto as he attempted to catch the duck and her six chicks. The mother duck had the presence of mind to act as a decoy and fly off at a low altitude thus tempting the dog to chase after her. Her little defenceless ducklings were left alone, but not for long, as she escaped the jaws of the dog and flew determinedly back to the lake to take her chicks under her wings once more!

After this traumatic interlude us girls had no option than to retire to the Royal Forest Hotel for comforting and much deserved refreshments, where we were joined by two more friends. As Amanda Hart would have said “Such Fun!”

Lindy Richardson

Operation Christmas Child

Just to remind you that I check in the round tub at the back of the Church each week to see if there are any items for the shoe boxes. Just lately it has been empty, because earlier I took out lots of things for which I say thank you. They are stored in our loft until September when I will start filling the shoeboxes.

I am learning how to cover the boxes in Christmas paper and trying to make smaller the very large boxes with some success. However we do need a lot more shoe boxes. We also need face flannels and cars for boys and pretty things for girls. Below is a list of items that are put in the boxes.

Soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, coloured pencils, biros, felt pens, wax crayons for the 2-4 year olds pencil sharpeners, exercise books, colouring books that will fit into a shoebox, rubbers, gloves, scarves, skipping ropes, plastic animals, jewellery and hair things, small dolls, small musical instruments— boys seem to like whistles. Boys are more difficult, especially the older ones. I also put a Christmas card in each box (not religious). I go through all the names of the congregation and write a name in each card.

Items not to be included: any war items such as guns, tanks etc any liquids like bubbles or shampoo, playing cards, any food except sweets, but not chocolate. Sell by date for sweets must be March 2016 so leave them till later. Shoes or larger items of clothing, (I put socks in), any religious items such as crosses. Please do not donate any sharp items or china which can break. Plastic beakers are fine.

Thank you so much, There have been so many wars and disasters in present times, that just a simple gift like a shoebox filled with essentials and goods can make so much difference to a child, as our last year’s went to the refugee camps.

Sylvia Dixon

SMILE LINES…

Teacher: “Tommy, who is God?”

Six year old Tommy thought for a moment: “I think God is the man who saved the Queen”.

THANK YOU

” I would like to thank all my friends at Winchester for their prayers and concern for me whilst I’ve been having my operation etc. Their caring phone messages and visits have made all the difference to my relatively speedy recovery as well as the lovely flowers (and one of Shirley’s fantastic lemon drizzle cakes)

I’ve had heartening messages from both Bart’s and Whipps Cross, and am just waiting for a final appointment at Bart’s to “sign me off” officially, although I will have follow up appointments in 3 and 4 months to keep an eye on things.

I always knew Winchester was a caring church, but have now received personal confirmation and hope that we may continue to show the caring hand over the years to come.

My love and thanks to everyone,

Dorothy Barr

ENTERTAINMENT JUST FOR YOU!

An Afternoon of Music and Songs

from Stage and Film

Sunday 7th June

3.00—5.00pm

Winchester Road Church

Featuring local musicians and singers

Steve Walker—Dorothy Barr—Chris Carpenter

David Bohla—Alice Evans—Jonathan Pease

Spirit—Janice Pettit—Sing, Sing, Sing Singers

Leytonstone Methodist Youth Choir

Maureen Duncan

Compere—Rev Hilary Cheng

£7 adults and £3.50 children

(includes interval refreshments)

Tickets from Jan Dent, Hazel Mathews

and Pat Ovenden

or phone Pam 0208 5275435

All proceeds towards the Church Building Fund

The day thou gavest Lord is ended …………..

Recently it was announced that the North Chingford Church had decided to stop Sunday evening services and our low attendances put our worship at risk. During my teenage years evening services were the principal Sunday service and I can remember making sure that I reached church twenty minutes before the service to ensure that I could claim a place in the back pew where we youngsters sat. After the services we were sometimes invited to the home of church members and as numbers grew a Young Person’s Fellowship was established which was why we attended evening service. Morning services were less well attended there were young children sent along by their parents, a scattering of elderly worshippers and several men whose wives were absent probably cooking the Sunday lunch. Teenagers and weary workers were having a ‘lie in’. It was the evening Gospel Service that was well attended and even boasted a choir who would enrich worship with an anthem. Evening services like the family Sunday lunch and the YPF have gone. One of the other losses will be evening hymns which we will no longer sing.

I suspect that the best known and loved of these evening hymns is John Ellerton’s The day thou gavest Lord is ended (STF 147). Ellerton was an Anglican priest born in Clerkenwell in 1826 who at one time served as curate in Crewe where he also taught education classes for the local railway company and organised choirs. His final living was as vicar of White Roding in Essex where he died in 1893. Throughout his life he wrote, translated and published hymns fifteen of them were included in the old Methodist Hymn Book but only one has survived into Singing the Faith. He also wrote a hymn for the end of services Saviour again to thy dear name we raise our with one accord our parting hymn of praise (MHB 691).

The day thou gavest was written in1870 for a publication ‘ A Liturgy for Missionary Meetings’. In it Ellerton skilfully follows the daily movement of our planet describing the earth rolling onward into light and

The sun that bids us rest is waking

our brethren ‘neath the western sky. I

It is a hymn of thanksgiving for the spread of Christianity around the world.

The hymn was chosen by Queen Victoria for her Diamond Jubilee service in 1891 as to many it was seen as reflecting the spread of Christianity and the British Empire during her reign, though she cannot have taken on board the final verse.

So be it Lord; thy throne shall never

Like earth’s proud empires pass away

The words are supported by the lilting tune St. Clement written for the hymn by Clement Scholefield for inclusion in a collection by Sir Arthur Sullivan. The tune has always been popular though some writers dismiss it a ‘feeble waltz tune’ and others suspect that Sullivan had a hand in it.

Before I leave the subject I must lament the passing of two other evening hymns which have disappeared into the STF darkness.

At even ere the sun was set.

The sick, O Lord, around thee lay ( MHB 689)

And the hymn which recounts Luke’s story of two of Jesus’ followers on the road to Emmaus (Lk 24 v 13-35)

Lord Jesus in the days of old

Two walked with thee in waning light (MHB 941)

But there is one evening hymn will continue to thrive, thanks to its tune, though perhaps not in churches, and because its evening theme is ignored.

Abide with me.

Fast falls the eventide. (STF 141)

Allen Steel

Winchester Road Methodist Church

Ikebana Flower Arranging Demonstration

Friday 12^th June 2.30 – 4.30

Come along to experience the ancient art of

Japanese flower arranging demonstrated by

Rev. Hilary Cheng.

£5 per person includes tea or coffee and cakes.

Everyone will receive a raffle ticket and the chance to take home one of the arrangements.

Tickets from Jan, Pat or Hazel or ring 020 8527 7193

NO BREAKS FOR FIREMEN

A fire started in the fields close to a farm. The Fire Brigade rushed to the scene, but the fire was more than they could handle. Someone suggested calling the Volunteer Fire Department. Despite some doubt that they would be of any assistance, they were called.

The volunteers arrived in a dilapidated old fire engine, drove straight into the middle of the flames and stopped! The fire fighters jumped from the engine and frantically started spraying water in all directions. Soon they had snuffed out the centre of the fire, leaving parts which were easily put out.

As the farmer watched all this, he was impressed and grateful that his house had been spared. He quickly got out his cheque book and donated £500 to the Volunteer Fire Department.

A local reporter asked the Volunteer Fire Captain how they planned to use the money.

The captain replied, “The first thing we are going to is get the brakes on our fire engine fixed!”

MAY 2015 NEWSLETTER

Our Minister’s letter

Dear Friends,
My letterbox is very busy at present receiving information about different Political Parties. The News is being dominated at the moment by the General Election. I listen with interest to the manifestos being put forward by each Party as broadcast on the radio and television, and consider carefully what is being said. Choosing who to vote for can be difficult but we all have to decide for ourselves who we think will make the best Party to be in government.

We are a democratic country which means that everyone can have a say. We may not get the Party in government that we vote for but the system is fair and open to all who are eligible to vote. Not every country in the world has the same system.

Many years ago Leo and I were attending a posh Silver Wedding Party. It was a sit-down meal and, on one side I was seated next to a man who asked me what was my occupation. ‘ I ‘m a minister’, I replied, to which he said, ‘Oh, which Party?’ I explained that I was a Methodist minister, at which point the conversation almost ground to a halt!

Politics was around when Jesus walked on earth, and the people of his day lived under occupation by the Romans. They had their own rules to live by, which were a challenge to some. Jesus was not afraid to stand up when he saw injustice, and defended the weak and the vulnerable. He sought to influence the status quo and the way decisions were made. Although this made him unpopular with some, in spite of his death and resurrection, many millions of people have heard about him and his teachings still have an impact on the world today. I often wonder what would have happened to him if he had not been so outspoken and challenged the status quo? How might life be different for us today if Jesus had not taken a stand on so many issues?

As we go to the polls, we have the opportunity to make a difference to the way our country is governed.

May God watch over us through these elections and may the outcome result in good news for those who need to hear it.

Your Minister,

Hilary

Eric Warner, Husband, Dad, Granddad and Grandpa

12.08.1923-25.03.2015

It is very fitting that we can pay tribute to Dad in Winchester News because Winchester Road church, the church family and everything that it stands for was a fundamental aspect of Dad’s life: and he played a crucial part in its life and mission too. It is incredible to realise that he was brought here at the age of 5 months when his parents moved into Winchester Road, and worshipped here faithfully for the remainder of his life. Dad was a quiet, unassuming man but with rock solid principles and a total commitment to his Christian faith. Not one to push himself forward, he served the church for decades both as a treasurer and as the organist. His ability with mental maths was incredible – no calculator or adding machine for him – he could add up a line of numbers quicker than you could key them into a calculator. And he was often more accurate! Generous to a fault with his own money, he would spend hours poring over the church accounts, filling in ledgers, checking his calculations, making sure that every last pound, shilling and pence were properly accounted for. Meticulous and scrupulous, he was totally committed to what he believed was important.

Dad’s creativity came out in his musical ability. He loved classical music and playing the piano, and used his talents at church through playing for the Sunday School and playing our church organ. He used to practise every Sunday – after he had counted the collection – just to make sure that he played everything as well as he could. He was a great traditionalist, so was not over keen on all the ‘new fangled’ hymns that kept creeping into the services, but understood that the church had to move with the times. When the time came for him to stop playing regularly, as his eyesight was failing, he found it hard to accept and to become one of the congregation. Indeed, the one thing that Dad absolutely didn’t do, was sing. If you are playing the organ you don’t need to sing but if you are in the congregation you do; he solved this problem, however, by using the music version of the hymn book and playing the tunes silently with his fingers whilst others sang.

Dad would never have told you for how many years he was treasurer, he would never have told you for how many years he played the organ, nor for how many years he ran a bazaar stall, nor for how many Saturdays he would come down to be a caretaker. He did those things because he had the skills to do them, could do them quietly and efficiently and could serve God that way.

Dad’s faith was also very significant in the way that he lived his life. As a young man he decided that he could not face the thought of killing people so became a conscientious objector. We weren’t alive during the war but we believe that must have been an incredibly courageous decision to make as it would have brought criticism, alienation and disapproval. But of course, that didn’t mean that he didn’t serve his country – he did, and it was whilst he was in the army, up North, that he met Mum. The rest, as they say, is history. His faith also meant that he believed in giving service to others and he spent many years working in a voluntary capacity at Whitechapel Mission using his financial skills. The one thing that typified Dad was his belief that once you started doing something you gave it total commitment for as long as you were able. It was only when age really took over that he hung up his ledgers and ceased to travel to Whitechapel regularly. What I am sure many don’t know, though, is that Dad’s Christian commitment was recognised in 1991 when he met the Queen as a recipient of her Maundy Money. This was an incredible accolade and acknowledgment of his Christian contribution to others. We were all very proud of him but it was something that he would not have advertised. Dad was very much a man who hid his light under a bushel.

The family have received so many tributes to Dad that it would be impossible to mention them all here. But a few sum up what so many people have said. Olive Wimble writes “I have always had high regard for Eric and admired his conscientious commitment both as an organist and in his more general discipleship, I admired him also because of the way he related to other people. His friendly manner and interest always ‘stood out’ and brought pleasure to many people.” Dorothy Barr talks about his ‘deep chuckle’. Pat Ovenden remembers that “The last time I saw him he was wanting to put chairs away! A real example to us all. On top of this he always made me feel so welcome in his home” and, finally, Mary French reminds us “I always appreciated the fact that he made an effort to write a Christmas greeting in German on the Christmas card, knowing that I spoke German and was interested in what I had been doing rather than where I had been on holiday. “

As his children and Grandchildren, we knew that we were well loved, appreciated and admired for being the people we were. Dad didn’t expect us to be anything other than ourselves and was always a bit surprised by our successes. When Maureen went to University he insisted on buying her Uni scarf because he said that “he never thought a daughter of his would get to University.” He would shake his head in disbelief at some of the cake creations Janice made and would comment “well she doesn’t get that from me”. He spent hours playing with us all, picking us up from Guides and school, making us endless cups of tea but probably the one thing that typifies our children’s relationship with their Granddad was his gentle teasing, his impish sense of humour

Peter Pan tendency. We remember him incapacitated with laughter on many, many occasions and even when he was getting more frail and less chatty there would still be many times when he would pipe up with an amusing witticism or a play on wordsand his mischievous Peter Pan tendency. We remember him incapacitated with laughter on many, many occasions and even when he was getting more frail and less chatty there would still be many times when he would pipe up with an amusing witticism or a play on words.

Dad and Mum shared 65 years of marriage together and actually knew each other for 70 years. He loved her to bits, even if he didn’t always show it with bunches of roses or flowery cards. He knew how lucky he was to have her beside him. He knew that peppering every surface in the house with stamps for his collection, leaving her behind at a station so that he could run off to see a train, being unable to wire a plug or wield a screwdriver, leading her into a swamp in Scotland could be infuriating and well-deserving of the ‘Oh Eric’ refrain that often followed. But he also knew that he had a soul mate who loved him for his steadfastness, moral fibre, loyalty, compassion, faithfulness and loving easy-going nature . As Mum says, he was a ‘real sweetie.’

Dad was not a saint, he wasn’t a famous man – he could be stubborn and very determined, he could be ham-fisted and he could forget to do things; but he made an enormous impact on those who knew him, he gave an enormous amount of his time and devotion to this church and his community; he gave our family a stability and a sense that we were always loved and he leaves a gap that no one else can fill.

Janice and Maureen

THANK YOU

I would like to thank everyone so much for their kind words, thoughts, support, prayers, cards and donations in the days following Eric’s death. It has been a great comfort to know that he will be missed by so many and that his contribution to church life has been greatly appreciated.

Thank you all.

Kath Warner.

Christian aid

This year Christian Aid Week is the 10th-16th May. If you would

like to help by doing a door to door collection along a road or by

helping to count the money afterwards please see Susan Knights

or Pat Ovenden.

When my sister died, about eight years ago, I inherited her penfriend, a Japanese Nun. In an effort to make a recent letter more interesting, I enclosed a copy of the February Winchester News, The following is an extract from her next letter.

“Thank you so much for your letter and the copy of your Church’s newsletter. I read all the articles with interest. How wonderful your Church is filled with children and young people. I wondered how over 250 people were able to share the cake which was baked amazingly. I can read ‘Walthamstow’ on the cake. You have much variety of activities, enjoyable and also satisfying. Ladies Pamper Evening is very unique isn’t it? Have you used it?

Please let me join in Women’s World Day of Prayer to be held on March 6th.”

Unfortunately the letter did not arrive until the end of March—but I am sure she joined in.

Joyce Roden

Finances

Monthly offertory collections are as follows;

February £2,699.91

March £3,130.35

In addition we have joined the Stewardship Organization which lists our charity and invites donations. Over the last 3 months we have received £45 each month and in April we have received £295!

The Church Anniversary giving at present stands at £9,046.50, an excellent result which will boost our fundraising for the deficit on the building works.

Janice

Colin Winter –a prophet for our time

As June approaches memories come back of our daughter’s baptism at Shern Hall Methodist Church thirty five years ago in that month. Unusually for a Methodist service-uniquely in this circuit? – it was partly conducted by an Anglican bishop who also preached the sermon. He was the Rt. Revd. Colin Winter, Bishop of Damaraland- in- exile with whom Janet and I had formed a friendship in the late 1970s.

Colin was born in Stoke on Trent in 1928 and trained as a physical education teacher at Loughborough College. He was a conscientious objector to National Service and instead was ordered to work on a farm where his physical fitness served him well. He offered himself for the ministry of the Anglican Church and was ordained Deacon in 1956 and Priest the following year by Bishop George Bell of Chichester.

Bishop Bell was a great influence on Colin not least as he had spoken out against the bombing of German civilians in World War Two which probably cost him the see of Canterbury when it fell vacant after the death of Archbishop William Temple. Bell was a pioneer of the ecumenical movement through his contacts in Sweden and with the Confessing Church in Germany, those Lutherans who actively opposed Hitler including the martyr Dietrich Bonhoeffer.b Like Bell, Colin was an Anglo Catholic (High Anglican) but one committed to working with Christians of all denominations particularly in social matters.

After an initial ministry in Eastbourne, Colin moved to South Africa to become a priest in the naval port of Simonstown. The apartheid system deeply offended him and like Trevor Huddleston he became a determined opponent. In 1964 he moved to Windhoek as Cathedral Dean.

Windhoek was the capital of South West Africa, now Namibia. Formerly a German colony where a horrendous massacre of the Heroro people had happened in 1905 by the colonists, sometimes called the first German holocaust, South West Africa as given as mandate of the League of Nations to the Union of South Africa after World War One. A mandate meant that the area should be governed by a victor power until independence was given. In practice South Africa ran it as its own with the apartheid system introduced post 1948.

The Anglican bishop under whom Colin served was expelled in 1968 for his opposition to apartheid and Colin was elected to succeed him. Colin continued his work and was prominent in supporting strikes by African workers in the early 1970s and took a high profile in the struggle for racial justice. Inevitably he too was expelled by the South African government. His diocese refused to accept his resignation and he referred to himself as Bishop of Damaraland (Namibia)-in-exile.

Colin moved to a small terraced house in Cephas Street, Stepney, owned by a Christian housing association which was also the base of his Namibia Peace Centre where I was to visit him. Not only did he lobby against apartheid but typically involved himself in the anti-racist movement in this country.

The 1970s were a very racist period in Britain following the ‘rivers of blood’ speech by Enoch Powell in 1968 and was reflected in various television comedies of that decade. The decade also saw the emergence of a racist party, the National Front, and attacks by poor young white skinheads on South Asians who revelled in ’paki bashing’.

On the first time I encountered Colin, the neo-fascist National Front were planning a march through multi-racial Lewisham. Janet and I plus Martin in a pushchair went to a rally there to protest. Colin was amongst the speakers and was by far the most inspiring. I made contact soon afterwards.

In the following years we shared public platforms in Birmingham, London and Brighton, the last at a Labour Party Conference fringe meeting. Colin was among the speakers who supported me in the 1979 General Election when I was Labour parliamentary candidate for Chipping Barnet, North London. He made a tremendous impact not least on the Jews and atheists present who never expected to be impressed by a bishop.

Colin was pleased to accept our invitation to share in Lizzie’s baptism with the Revd. Bert Mountford and invited us to Stepney to discuss the order of service. What he did not tell us was that Rabbi Lionel Blue would also be there following a meal they had earlier. Lionel was as amusing as he was on the radio and television. Lionel said that Elizabeth was a good Jewish name for our daughter. Quite an evening! A year later Colin was delighted when I was elected to the Greater London Council and appointed to the Ethnic Minorities Committee with its active anti-racist policies.

Colin worked hard for the cause of racial justice rarely turning down an invitation whether from religious conferences, universities, public schools, local churches and even Wood Street branch of Walthamstow Labour Party. Inevitably it took an effect on his health that he died of a heart attack on November 17, 1981, aged only 53 years old.

He had worn himself out for the causes in which he believed and for which he made a sacrificial witness. He was not afraid to speak out against injustice in Britain as well as against apartheid which cost him support in parts of the Anglican Church.

He refused to resign as the Namibian bishop and remained as the mainly African diocese wanted him to continue. This determination along with his non-avoidance of controversy meant that he was never a bishop in the Church of England.

I was privileged to attend Colin’s funeral in a West London parish church. I have two of his books- Namibia and the Breaking Process- in my library, plus photographs and press cuttings of a good, humorous friend who was surely a prophet for our times. Although he did not live to see the freedom of Namibia, the collapse of apartheid and the great progress made towards racial equality in the UK, his influence and inspiration was immeasurable.

Peter Dawe

FOOD BANK

The food bank that Winchester supports – called e4 eat or heat, based at the Congregational Church in South Chingford – is currently helping between 8 and 10 families or individuals each week. According to their April newsletter, “We cannot say we have a typical client, they are all different as are the circumstances that have caused their need for help, although a large number need help due to benefit sanctions.”

The food bank is grateful for all contributions received, from Winchester Road and elsewhere, but at present is most in need of the following: desserts, tinned carrots, tinned meat and fish. They do not currently need pasta or tea as they are fortunate to have a large store of both. Pat, Janet (Dawe) and I are all on the rota for help with e4 eat or heat but as collection by the clients currently takes place on Mondays, when neither Pat nor Janet is available, I am the only person from Winchester currently helping.

If anyone else would like to help, please contact Julia Adams, or ask Pat, Janet or me to do so – we meet at the Congregational church between 9.30 and 11.00 am on Monday mornings (clients arrive between 10.00 and 11.00 am

Mary French

CONGRATULATIONS to Hannah Chun on the safe delivery last week of twins (a boy and a girl). I am sure we will all be holding Hannah, Yoon Young, Reyna and the twins , and also the rest of the family, in our thoughts and prayers.

PRAYER AT ELECTION TIME

Heavenly Father,

We need your wisdom at this Election time. There are so many issues, so many voices clamouring for attention, clamouring for votes, clamouring for power.

Thank you that you give your people a different sort of power, the power of your Holy Spirit, who leads all into truth. Help us Lord to receive your Spirit, listen to him, so that we make good decisions on Election Day and every day of our lives.

Thank you for the wonderful gift of your Spirit.

In Jesu’s name

Amen

Daphne Kitching

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Saturday 6th June Cream Tea at Pat and David Ovenden’s

Sunday 6th June Afternoon Concert

Saturday 11th July Highams Park Day (we run the Refreshment Stall

Saturday 18th July Coffee Morning

We are sorry to announce that Agnes Forsyth has died. She and her husband Angus were member of Winchester a while ago. Many of our older members will remember them.

Please remember her family in your prayers.

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to Roger Pettit who has been awarded The Chief Scout’s Medal of Merit.

This is awarded for outstanding service of not less than 12 years 10 years exceptionally.

It implies keen, conscientious, imaginative and dedicated service over a sustained period.

Mary Burgoine has booked a boat trip on the River Lea from Broxbourne on Monday 3rd August for a Cream Tea Cruise on the “Pride of the Lea”.

There will be more details at a later date, but book the date now as spaces will be limited.

Please give your names to Mary if you wish to go.

Thank you to all who have helped/encouraged and supported me during my time as Steward/Senior Steward – 2 great Ministers, super co-Stewards and of course all our wonderful, wonderful Church family.

It seemed a bit of a long haul 6 years ago when I first took on the role of Steward and I certainly did not want to be Senior Steward but, as things have turned out, it has all in all been a really positive and enjoyable experience.

All good wishes to our new Senior Stewards, Mary Burgoine and Mary Rose French and the rest of the team, Janet, Jonathan, Hazel and Samuel.

Many thanks for the lovely flowers and card – such a very nice surprise.

Love and God Bless

Pat Ovenden

Continuing to support children in Bombululu, Kenya. Just 20p

Now that we are fully ensconced in The Hub, we are relaunching the 20p appeal for Kenyan pupils in Bombululu, a slum area of Kenya. It was at this school, Olives Rehabilitation Centre, that William worked in his Gap Year. Monies we have already raised have gone towards buying land so that the school can be permanent, training teachers and also feeding the children with one hot meal a day.

The school is continuing to appeal for 20ps – this is the cost of feeding one child a hot meal. There is a basket in the hub on the information table should you feel able to contribute occasionally.

GVI Charitable Trust supports the project and any monies we raise goes directly to the school.

Thank you for any support you can give.

The Duncan Family

For more information see

www.olivesrehabilitationcentre.com

The joy of smiling

Want to feel your smiling best this spring? Then stay away from Botox. Research into the anti-wrinkle treatment has discovered that being unable to smile when you are happy actually feeds back to the brain, and reduces the intensity of your happy feelings.

Botox, used to fight facial wrinkles, is made of an extremely toxic protein which temporarily paralyses the muscles that cause creases. This ‘freezes’ the face, and New York research has found that a person with limited ability to make facial expressions also has a limited ability to feel emotions. God seems to have given us our facial muscles for a good reason: ‘A cheerful look brings joy to the heart’ the Bible tells us. (Prov 15:30) So – SMILE! Be happy!

ANNUAL CHURCH MEETING

The Annual Meeting was held after the morning service on April 19^th for the receipt of reports on the work of the Church. The meeting started with one minute’s silence to remember the nine Church members who had died during the last year.

Janice Pettit presented the finance report which included the good news that the Pilgrims Way Fund deficit had decreased by £3,000.00 since the written report had been prepared. The total received to date for the Annual Gift Day was £9,050.00 and gifts were still being received. There was further good news that the government had introduced the Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme (GASDS) which meant we could now claim a 20% top up on loose cash donations of up to £20 with a total amount of up to £5,000.00. This would greatly help the overall finances.

Roger Pettit said that the final bill for the building project was still awaited. The Hub was almost finished apart from a few odds and ends.

Joan Taylor said that there were no longer enough members to keep the Companions Short Mat Bowls Club going, so it was planned to close it by the end of June, sell the equipment and donate the money to the Church. Members felt this was a shame and Kath Warner said that bowls seemed to have gone out of fashion which was a pity as it offered companionship, gentle exercise and fellowship. Members suggested a publicity drive and Joan would prepare a leaflet for promotional purposes.

Congratulations were offered to Roger who had been awarded the Chief Scout’s Commendation for Good Service, the Award for Merit. Both Scouting and Guiding sections would be delighted if more people would volunteer to be leaders.

This year’s Bazaar will be held on 28^th November and Sarah said that more helpers would be required in the lead-up to the Bazaar and with disposal to avoid the physical burden of moving items around falling on a few key people.

Food was still needed for the Food Bank and there was a list of items required at the back of the church. Mary French said if anyone would like to donate but could not get to the shops, she was willing to buy food on their behalf if they gave her the money. The number of people attending varied from week to week and the Food Bank was now held on Mondays at the South Chingford Congregational Church.

Pat Ovenden stood down after serving for 6 years as a Steward, the last 3 as Senior Steward. Pat was thanked for all her hard work during this time and was presented with a basket of flowers from the church. Mary French and Mary Burgoine had agreed to share the role of Senior Steward for the next two years. Samuel Ebden had been nominated to serve as a Steward and was elected unanimously. The remaining Stewards were within their terms of office and had agreed to continue. Pat was nominated as a Church representative and accepted unanimously Any Other Business

Several members of the congregation with hearing problems were unable to hear the services properly. It was confirmed that the hearing loop was working properly, but Ron Clarke said it worked better in some places than in others and he had moved where he sat in Church to get better reception. It was agreed that speakers should be reminded to speak up, to speak clearly and not to drop their voices as the sound engineers could not amplify beyond a certain point without getting feedback. There was some discussion about how to inform the preacher during the service if people could not hear, with some novel suggestions. It was agreed that our Minister would take the issue to the Local Preachers meeting in June.

The website had been updated recently and now included an Events page.

Peter Richardson initiated a discussion about the role of the Worship Leaders in leading services. There are insufficient ministers and preachers to in our circuit to cover all the services, so more services were being designated to be led by the Worship Leaders. Various points of view were put forward with the general feeling being that a local arrangement did not have to be the total responsibility of the Worship Leaders, all members could contribute. We should look upon a local arrangement as a positive opportunity to participate and enthuse our young people to train as Worship Leaders. Hilary said the recent Away Day had challenged church members to consider alternative times of worship or to share services with other churches, or to stagger services. We should also consider that a service did not necessarily have to last for 60 minutes and to consider reading a passage from a book instead of a sermon.

Finally, Barbara Chapman asked for clarification on groups meeting on the premises during Holy Week. Roger explained that commercial groups that needed to raise money to exist would not meet, but other groups could continue if they wished except for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Barbara wondered whether it would be a good idea to approach some of the groups to ask if they would like someone to visit their group during Holy Week to talk about the meaning of Easter. It was agreed that Barbara would take the initiative.

The meeting closed with The Grace.

AN OBSERVATION ON LIFE

Blessed are they who hunger and thirst, for they are sticking to their diets!

THE ROLLS AND THE VOLK

A man from Texas, driving a Volkswagen Beetle, pulls up next to a guy in a Rolls Royce at a stop sign. Their windows are open and he yells at the man in the Rolls, “Hey, you got a telephone in that Rolls?”

The man replies ”Yes, of course I do”. “I got one too”, the Texan says.

“Uh, huh, yes that’s very nice”. “You got a fax machine?” asks the Texan.

“Why, actually, yes I do”. “I do too. See it’s right here”, brags the Texan.

The light is about to turn green and the man in the VW says “So, do you have a double bed in the back there?” The man in the Rolls replies, “NO! Do you?” “Yep, got my double bed right in the back here, see”.

The light turn green and the man in the Volkswagen drives off. Well the man in the Rolls is not to outdone, so he immediately orders a double bed for the back of his car.

About two weeks later, the job is done and he drives all over town looking for the VW. Finally he finds it and pulls up alongside. The windows on the VW are all steamed up, he gets out of his newly modified Rolls and taps on the window of the VW. The man in the VW opens the window a crack and peeps out. The man in the Rolls says “Hey, you remember me?”

“Yeah, yeah, I remember you, replies the Texan. “What’s up?” “I got a double bed installed in my Rolls”.

The Texan exclaims, “YOU GOT ME OUT OF THE SHOWER TO TELL ME THAT?”

RACE FOR LIFE

Jo Henderson and Alex Fletcher will be taking part once again in the “Race for Life” on Sunday 21st June at Trent Park, Enfield.

If you would like to sponsor Jon or Alex you can donate online at www.mygive.net/jo_alex or speak to Jo or Alex if you would like to donate any other way.

THE YOUNG CHURCH

The ‘downstairs’ group in Young Church read and talked about the Easter story and made an Easter garden for everyone in church to enjoy.

The children thought about how the disciples would feel and how amazing it was that Jesus was strong enough to come back from the dead.

When they were listening to the story one Sunday one of the teachers said, ‘Mary was very sad that she couldn’t find Jesus.’ ‘Yes,’ one of the children replied, “but Jesus found her.