Minister’s message – November

Something we all can do!

We can all care!

And like mercy, caring is twice blest, “it blesseth him that gives and him that takes”.  If we care, that’s something that not only binds us together (ie those who care), but also binds us together with the object of our care.

And like Faith, caring “without action (or works) is dead!” If we don’t do anything, doesn’t that simply show that we don’t really care?  We often say that we can’t do anything! (as an excuse?!!) or moan that there’s nothing we can do! But there’s always something we can do!

All of us, always, we can pray!

Flood relief in South India – charity of the month, November

This month our charity is flood relief in South India.

Over 2.5 million people have been forced from their homes by heavy rains and flooding in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in South India.  Local communities report that this has been the worst flooding recorded in over 100 years.

With the Krishna River inundated, over 50 villages have been completely submerged or marooned in Andhra Pradesh. The famous temple town of Mantralayam has been under ten feet of water for more than a day. Rescue operations are difficult because accessibility to some affected towns is severely limited.

We are supporting relief efforts in this area

Christmas fair – 2009

Our Christmas fair will be held on SATURDAY 14 NOVEMBER from 10 a.m. until 12 noon All the usual stalls will be there Fairtrade Christmas cards Crafts Books Gifts Cakes Lucky Dip …and much more We look forward to seeing you there!

Charity of the month, October – Bible Society

The Bible Society in England & Wales – our Charity of the Month for October and for our Harvest Lunch

Harvest is a time we give thanks to God for the glorious gifts He has given us. We may sow the seed, we may water the seed, but it’s God who gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3.6).

Minister’s thought for October

Dear Friends,

A few months ago, I threw out the challenge that we should all read the New Testament over the Summer. Two or three people have come up to me and said that they have indeed achieved this, but for those of us (including myself!) who found this timetable too short, our initial “task” was to read the Gospels of Luke & John and the Acts of the Apostles (written by Luke as a continuation of his Gospel)

To read them is the starting point! We then should think about, meditate, reflect and talk about: what’s their relevance for us, what’s God saying to us – both as individuals & families and corporately as a church. Also, as it’s God’s Word we’re talking about, we should in particular pray about it.

Able Child Africa – Charity of the Month, September

This charity is one of very few actively promoting the rights of disabled children and young people in Africa. It works to improve their access to healthcare, education and employment opportunities. It is very heavily reliant on donations to continue its work, so let’s see if we can make a big difference this month,

Here’s the link to their web page for more information

Demelza House

Demelza House is our charity of the month for August.  It’s the only residential hospice for children in the south-east.   The organisation has recently opened a facility in Eltham, South London, and it’s this that we are particularly supporting.

Click here for more information on Demelza House

Minister’s thought for the summer

Let us pray …

One hundred and seventy years ago there was a revival in Scotland – this is historical fact. What God did yesterday, He can do today! And, if we look around at the church and at our country – don’t we need Him to do so today, just as much as in times gone past?

Minister’s message for June

If you’re only going to read one book this summer …

The weather’s meant to be good! Almost all of us will take some time off for a holiday, we’ll read all sorts of books, stories, magazines – my challenge to you, each and everyone of you, and to your friends and families (and also to myself) is to read the New Testament this summer!

Smile International: Charity of the Month – June

Smile International is a charity dedicated to sharing the love of Jesus Christ by helping to relieve suffering and poverty through the distribution of humanitarian aid and long-term development projects. We are presently working in Africa, Asia and Europe.

Our aim is to put a smile on people’s faces as they see the love of God in action.

Click here to go to Smile International’s home page