Author: elthamch

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK

Christian Aid Week draws to a close with a cake sale today in church. Thank you to everyone who has helped over the past week with all our fund-raising events, and of course to all who have donated. There are donation envelopes in church today for anyone still wishing to give. Monies collected will help finance a campaign to makechildbirth safe for all mums and babies in some of the world’s poorest countries.

THY KINGDOM COME: A GLOBAL PRAYER MOVEMENT
The Archbishops of Canterbury and York have invited churches across the world to observe 10 days of prayer from Ascension Day to the Day of Pentecost. At St John’s, ‘Thy Kingdom Come’ will begin with the Ascension Day Eucharist at 7pm on 30th May and end with the 10am Parish Eucharist on 9th June. The church will be open forprayer at 11am-1pm every day in between. If you can help us keep the church open during this time, please let Fr Jim know, or speak with Robyn Price or Patricia Allen.

JUNE FARRELL

June Farrell, a faithful and active member of St John’s who was known to many, has died. June’s funeral will be at Eltham Crematorium at 12.30pm on 23rd May.

PATRONAL FESTIVAL AND SUMMER FAIR

The church’s patronal festival will begin with a Eucharist on Thursday 20th June – Corpus Christi – and continue with a second Eucharist the following day. Thesummer fair follows on Saturday 22nd June from 10am-2pm, and the festival ends with a Parish Eucharist celebrating the Birth of John the Baptist on Sunday 23rd.

GROWING IN FAITH AND LIFE

Applications are open for the Bishop’s Certificate in Discipleship 2019-2020, 
a 10-month course entitled ‘Growing in Faith and Life.’ The course, which runs from September to June, has six modules, including the history of the Anglican Church, what Christians believe, and ethics. It ends with a residential weekend at Wychcroft, the Southwark Diocese training centre in Surrey. Do pick up a leaflet at the back of church for further details. Please speak to Fr Jim if you have any questions. 

SUMMER CONCERT AT ST ALFEGE CHURCH, GREENWICH

The Thomas Tallis Society Choir will sing Bach’s Magnificat at a summer concert on Sunday 16th June. The event is being held to celebrate the forthcoming retirement of Revd Canon Chris Moody, vicar of St Alfege Church for 14 years and a member of the Thomas Tallis choir. Please see the poster on the church noticeboard and visit ticketsource.co.uk/tts for tickets, priced at £18 and £14. There will also be a Festal Evensong in St Alfege on 23rd June with the Bishops of Southwark and Woolwich. 

JUNIOR CHURCH
Our Junior Church and crèche, run by members of St John’s, are looking for more adults to get involved. We’re seeing growing numbers of families coming to church, for which we give thanks, and we want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. Laura Callaghan has kindly offered to run through a session with any new volunteers to demonstrate how it’s done. If you would like to be involved, please speak with Laura, Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim. 

CONFIRMATION

On 14th July, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation. If you were baptised as a child, your parents and godparents made promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may wish to confirm these promises for yourself at a confirmation service. If you are interested in confirmation, or if you were not baptised as a child but want to make a commitment of faith as an adult, please speak with Fr Jim.  

NEXT WEEK’S CHURCH NEWS

Please send any items for inclusion in next Sunday’s news sheet to Amanda Jordan at amanda.jordan@virgin.net by Wednesday morning. Thank you.

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK: 12TH – 18TH MAY 2019

Today marks the beginning of Christian Aid Week, an annual campaign that brings Christians together with a common purpose to achieve something incredible. This year, Christian Aid Week focuses on making childbirth safe for all mums and babies in some of the world’s poorest countries.

Here at St John’s, we have a number of activities planned to raise money:

• Today: tickets on sale for the Foodie Raffle
• Today and Sunday 19th: Church collection via donation envelopes
• Thursday 16th: Super Soup Lunch 
(see church noticeboard for details and sign-up sheet)
• Friday 17th: Eltham Station bucket collection
• Sunday 19th: Circle the City Walk (details on noticeboard) and 
cake sale in church

If anyone is able to help at any of the events, particularly the soup lunch, cake sale or station collection, it would be very much appreciated. Please speak to Fr Jim or Robyn Price.

SPRING CLEANING

We are planning to hold our annual spring clean of the church on Saturday 18th May. Everyone is welcome! Please come along at 10am and help make the church look its best. It would be much appreciated if you could bring your own cleaning materials, but anyone empty-handed can be supplied! Children are also welcome. If you have any questions, please speak to Fr Jim or churchwarden Dorian Woodward.

PATRONAL FESTIVAL AND SUMMER FAIR

The church’s patronal festival will begin with a Eucharist on Thursday 20th June – Corpus Christi – and continue with a second Eucharist the following day. Thesummer fair follows on Saturday 22nd June from 10am-2pm, and the festival ends with a Parish Eucharist celebrating the Birth of John the Baptist on Sunday 23rd.

GROWING IN FAITH AND LIFE

Applications are open for the Bishop’s Certificate in Discipleship 2019-2020, 
a 10-month course entitled ‘Growing in Faith and Life.’ The course, which runsSeptember to June, has six modules, including the history of the Anglican Church, what Christians believe, and ethics. It ends with a residential weekend at Wychcroft, the Southwark Diocese training centre in Surrey. Do pick up a leaflet at the back of church for further details. Please speak to Fr Jim if you have any questions. 

SPECIAL SERVICE AT SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL 
At the Annual Parochial Church Meeting last month, Dorian Woodward and Alberta Rosenior were reappointed as churchwardens. They’ll be readmitted to office at a special service led by the Archdeacon of Lewisham and Greenwich, the Venerable Alastair Cutting, in Southwark Cathedral at 8pm on Thursday 16th May. The service is open to all – do please attend if you can to support our churchwardens. 

CONFIRMATION

On Sunday 14th July, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation. If you are interested in confirmation, or if you’re not baptised but wish to make a commitment of faith, please speak to Fr Jim.  

JUNIOR CHURCH
Our Junior Church and crèche are looking for more adult helpers. We’re seeing more and more families coming to church, for which we give thanks, and we want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. If you’d like to be involved, please speak with Laura Callaghan, Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim.

NEXT WEEK’S CHURCH NEWS

Please send any items for inclusion in next Sunday’s news sheet to Amanda Jordan at amanda.jordan@virgin.net by Wednesday morning. Thank you.

GROWING IN FAITH AND LIFE

Applications are open for the Bishop’s Certificate in Discipleship 2019-2020, 
a 10-month course entitled ‘Growing in Faith and Life.’

The course, which runs from September to June, has six modules, including the history of the Anglican Church, what Christians believe, and ethics. The Bishop’s Certificate is taught on a termly cycle on a midweek evening or Saturday daytime, whichever is preferable. It ends with a residential weekend at Wychcroft, the Southwark Diocese training centre in Surrey. Do pick up a leaflet at the back of church for further details. If you have any questions, please speak with Fr Jim. 

CONFIRMATION

On Sunday 14th July, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation. If you were baptised as a child, your parents and godparents made promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may wish to confirm these promises for yourself at a confirmation service. If you are interested in confirmation, or if you were not baptised as a child but wish to make a commitment of faith as an adult, please speak with Fr Jim.  

SPRING CLEANING

We are planning to hold our annual spring clean of the church on Saturday 18th May. We’re asking for volunteers to come along at 10am with their own cleaning materials to help make the church look its best. If you’re able to assist, please speak to Fr Jim or churchwarden Dorian Woodward after the service today. Many thanks.

JUNIOR CHURCH
Our Junior Church and crèche, organized and run by members of St John’s, are looking for more adults to get involved. We’re seeing growing numbers of families coming to church, for which we give thanks, and we want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. Laura Callaghan has kindly offered to run through a session with any new volunteers so that you can see how it’s done. If you would like to be involved, or have any questions, please speak with Laura, Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim.

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK: 12TH – 18TH MAY 2019

Christian Aid Week brings Christians together with a common purpose to achieve something incredible. This Christian Aid Week, the campaign focuses on makingchildbirth safe for all mums and babies in some of the world’s poorest countries.

Here at St John’s, we have a number of activities planned to raise money:

• Sundays 5th and 12th: tickets on sale for the Foodie Raffle
• Sundays 12th and 19th: Church collection via donation envelopes
• Thursday 16th: Super Soup Lunch (see church noticeboard for details and sign-up sheet)
• Friday 17th: Eltham Station bucket collection
• Sunday 19th: Circle the City Walk (details on noticeboard) and 
cake sale in church
•  Sunday 19th: Circle the City Walk (details on noticeboard) and 
cake sale in church

If anyone is able to help at any of the events, particularly the soup lunch, cake sale orstation collection, it would be very much appreciated. Please speak to Fr Jim or Robyn Price.

NEXT WEEK’S CHURCH NEWS

Please send any items for inclusion in next Sunday’s news sheet to Amanda Jordan at amanda.jordan@virgin.net by Wednesday morning. Thank you.

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be held today at 11:30am in St John’s.Any member of the congregation who is on the Electoral Roll is welcome to attend.

HERMAN JORDAAN – ORGANIST AND CHOIRMASTER

We’re sad to announce that Herman Jordaan will be leaving St John’s today. Herman has greatly contributed to the life of the church for almost five years, but has had along distance to travel from his home. Herman’s superb playing and leadership of the choir has enriched the worship of the church. He will be greatly missed! 

ELTHAM & MOTTINGHAM ANGLICAN FORUM

The Eltham & Mottingham Anglican Forum – the renamed local deanery synod – will hold its next meeting on Wednesday 1st May at All Saints Church in New Eltham at 7:30pm for 8pm. All members of Eltham and Mottingham churches are invited.

CONFIRMATION 
The Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation on 14th July. If you are interested in confirmation, or if you are not baptised but wish to make a commitment of faith, please speak with Fr Jim.

JUNIOR CHURCH
Our Junior Church and crèche, organized and run by members of St John’s, are looking for more adults to get involved. We’re seeing growing numbers of families coming to church, for which we give thanks, and we want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. Laura Callaghan has kindly offered to run through a session with any new volunteers so that you can see how it’s done. If you would like to be involved, or have any questions, please speak with Laura, Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim. 

BIBLE READING FELLOWSHIP

If you were inspired by the Church of England’s ‘Pilgrim Journeys’ reflections for Lent, and would like to continue or begin a daily Bible reading, please consider the Bible Reading Fellowship booklets. Each covers four months with a short text, comment and thought for the day. For details contact Jean Harker.

GROWING IN FAITH AND LIFE

Applications are open for the Bishop’s Certificate in Discipleship 2019-2020. The course, which begins in September, has six modules, including the history of the Anglican Church, what Christians believe, and ethics. Do pick up a leaflet at the back of church for further details. If you have any questions, please speak with Fr Jim. 

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK: 12TH – 18TH MAY 2019

Christian Aid Week brings Christians together with a common purpose to achieve something incredible. This Christian Aid Week, the campaign focuses on makingchildbirth safe for all mums and babies in some of the world’s poorest countries.

Here at St John’s, we have a number of activities planned to raise money:

• Sundays 5th and 12th: tickets on sale for the Foodie Raffle
• Sundays 12th and 19th: Church collection via donation envelopes
• Thursday 16th: Super Soup Lunch (see church noticeboard for details and sign-up sheet)
• Friday 17th: Eltham Station bucket collection
• Sunday 19th: Circle the City Walk (details on noticeboard) and cake sale in church             

If anyone is able to help at any of the events, particularly the soup lunch, cake sale and station collection, it would be very much appreciated. Please speak to Fr Jim or Robyn Price.

NEXT WEEK’S CHURCH NEWS

Please send any items for inclusion in next Sunday’s news sheet to Amanda Jordan at amanda.jordan@virgin.net by Wednesday morning. Thank you.

ELTHAM & MOTTINGHAM ANGLICAN FORUM

The Eltham & Mottingham Anglican Forum – the renamed local deanery synod – will hold its next meeting on Wednesday 1st May at All Saints Church in New Eltham at 7:30pm for 8pm. All members of Eltham and Mottingham churches are invited.

CONFIRMATION 
The Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation on 14th July. If you were baptised as a child, your parents and godparents made promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may wish to confirm these promises for yourself. If you are interested in confirmation, or if you were not baptised as a child but wish to make a commitment of faith as an adult, please speak with Fr Jim.

THE REVD E. W. M. KELLY
Longtime members of St John’s who remember the Kelly family will be sad to hear that Ted died last week. Please have a word with Sybil Bennett, who heard the news from the PNG Church Partnership, for further information.

WELCARE QUIZ

Friends of Greenwich Welcare will hold their annual quiz and supper evening on 27th April. Do come and support the charity, which relies on help from parish fundraising events. The quiz takes place at St Thomas Church, Woodland Terrace, SE7 8UG at 6:45pm for a 7pm start. Tickets are £10. Please see the poster on the noticeboard and contact Peter Griffiths to book, at jean.peterg@hotmail.com.

ELECTORAL ROLL

The new Electoral Roll has now been completed and no further names can be added until after the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (see below). A list with the names of the 101 members is on the church noticeboard. 

JUNIOR CHURCH
Our Junior Church and crèche, organized and run by members of St John’s, are looking for more adults to get involved. We’re seeing growing numbers of families coming to church, for which we give thanks, and we want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. Laura Callaghan has kindly offered to run through a session with any new volunteers so that you can see how it’s done. If you would like to be involved, or have any questions, please speak with Laura, Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim. 

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be held on Sunday 28th April at 11:30am in St John’s. Any member of the congregation who is on the Electoral Roll is welcome to attend. The full report is available at the back of church.

GROWING IN FAITH AND LIFE

Applications are open for the Bishop’s Certificate in Discipleship 2019-2020. The course, which begins in September, has six modules, including the history of the Anglican Church, what Christians believe, and ethics. Do pick up a leaflet at the back of church for further details. If you have any questions, please speak with Fr Jim. 

CHRISTIAN AID – CIRCLE THE CITY

As part of Christian Aid Week, there’ll be a sponsored walk around London’s historic places of worship on 19th May. For details, please see the noticeboard or speak to Fr Jim or Robyn Price, or to Margaret Taylor, who has completed the walk many times. Details of the other events planned for Christian Aid Week, which starts on 12th May, will follow in next Sunday’s news sheet. 

NEXT WEEK’S CHURCH NEWS

Please send any items for inclusion in next Sunday’s news sheet to Amanda Jordan at amanda.jordan@virgin.net by Wednesday morning. Thank you.

ELECTORAL ROLL

The new Electoral Roll has now been completed and no further names can be added until after the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (see below). A list with the names of the 101 members is on the church noticeboard. 

ELTHAM & MOTTINGHAM ANGLICAN FORUM

The Eltham & Mottingham Anglican Forum – the renamed local deanery synod – will hold its next meeting on Wednesday 1st May at All Saints Church in New Eltham at 7:30pm for 8pm. All members of Eltham and Mottingham churches are invited.

CHRISTIAN AID – CIRCLE THE CITY

As part of Christian Aid Week, there’ll be a sponsored walk around London’s historic places of worship on 19th May. For details, please see the noticeboard or speak to Fr Jim or Robyn Price, or to Margaret Taylor, who has completed the walk many times.

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be held on Sunday 28th April at 11:30am in St John’s. Any member of the congregation who is on the Electoral Roll is welcome to attend. The full report is available at the back of church.

GOOD FRIDAY CONCERT

The St Cecilia Festival Chorus will perform Mozart’s Requiem on Good Friday at7:30pm at the United Reform Church on Court Road (next to the Post Office). Full details are on the poster at the back of church, or speak to Colin MacKenzie.

WELCARE QUIZ

Friends of Greenwich Welcare will hold their annual quiz and supper evening on 27th April. Do come and support the charity, which relies on help from parish fundraising events. The quiz takes place at St Thomas Church, Woodland Terrace, SE7 8UG at 6:45pm for a 7pm start. Tickets are £10. Please see the poster on the noticeboard and contact Peter Griffiths to book, at jean.peterg@hotmail.com.

BIBLE READING FELLOWSHIP

If you have been inspired by the Church of England’s ‘Pilgrim Journeys’ reflections for Lent, and would like to continue or begin a daily Bible reading, please considerthe Bible Reading Fellowship booklets. Each covers four months with a short text, comment and thought for the day. For details contact Jean Harker.

GROWING IN FAITH AND LIFE

Applications are open for the Bishop’s Certificate in Discipleship 2019-2020. The course, which begins in September, has six modules, including the history of the Anglican Church, what Christians believe, and ethics. Do pick up a leaflet at the back of church for further details. If you have any questions, please speak with Fr Jim. 

HOLY WEEK AND EASTER SERVICES

Monday 15th, Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th March
7pm Eucharist

Maundy Thursday, 18th April

7pm Eucharist with Washing of the Feet and Stripping of the Sanctuary

followed by the Watch

Good Friday, 19th April

1pm The Way of the Cross (non-Eucharistic)

2pm Good Friday Eucharist – The Final Hour

Easter Day, 21st April

6am Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter

10am Parish Eucharist

NEXT WEEK’S CHURCH NEWS

Please send any items for the news sheet to amanda.jordan@virgin.net by Wednesday.

THE BISHOP OF SOUTHWARK’S LENT CALL 2019

There are envelopes in St John’s during Lent, marked ‘Bishop’s Lent Call,’ for any charitable donations. This year, funds gathered will go to supporting community projects in Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka and Nairobi, as well as in the Southwark Diocese.

ELTHAM & MOTTINGHAM ANGLICAN FORUM

The Eltham & Mottingham Anglican Forum – the renamed local deanery synod – will hold its next meeting on Wednesday 1st May at All Saints Church in New Eltham at 7:30pm for 8pm. All members of Eltham and Mottingham churches are invited.

CHRISTIAN AID – CIRCLE THE CITY

Christian Aid Week this year starts on 12th May. Among the events planned, there’ll be a sponsored walk around London’s historic places of worship on Sunday 19th May. Details are on the church noticeboard. If you have any questions, please speak to Fr Jim or Robyn Price, or to Margaret Taylor, who has completed the walk many times. 

LOOP SYSTEM

Please note the loop system in church for those with hearing aids is now working. 

PILGRIM JOURNEYS

The Church of England has produced a small booklet for Lent called ‘Pilgrim Journeys, the Beatitudes’. It offers 40 days of reflections and is for anyone to use, exploring what each beatitude tells us about Jesus, a vision for human life and the life of the Church. Please pick up a copy of the booklet at the back of church.

BIBLE READING FELLOWSHIP

If you have been inspired by the Lent Pilgrim Journeys and would like to continue or begin a daily Bible reading, please consider BRF booklets. Each covers four months with a short text, comment and thought for the day. For details contact Jean Harker.

GROWING IN FAITH AND LIFE

Applications are open for the Bishop’s Certificate in Discipleship 2019-2020. The course, which begins in September, has six modules, including the history of the Anglican Church, what Christians believe, and ethics. Do pick up a leaflet at the back of church for further details. If you have any questions, please speak with Fr Jim. 

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be held on Sunday 28th April at 11:30amin St John’s. Any member of the congregation who is on the Electoral Roll is welcome to attend. The full report is available at the back of church from today.

HOLY WEEK AND EASTER SERVICES

Palm Sunday, 14th April
10am Parish Eucharist with Procession of the Palms

Monday 15th, Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th March
7pm Eucharist

Maundy Thursday, 18th April

7pm Eucharist with Washing of the Feet and Stripping of the Sanctuary

followed by the Watch

Good Friday, 19th April

1pm The Way of the Cross (non-Eucharistic)

2pm Good Friday Eucharist – The Final Hour

Easter Day, 21st April

6am Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter

10am Parish Eucharist

NEXT WEEK’S CHURCH NEWS

Please send any items for the news sheet to amanda.jordan@virgin.net by Wednesday

THE BISHOP OF SOUTHWARK’S LENT CALL 2019
The theme this year for the Bishop’s Lent Call is:

‘I came that they may have life and have it abundantly’ (John 10:10b). 

There are envelopes in St John’s during Lent, marked ‘Bishop’s Lent Call,’ for any donations. This year, funds gathered will go to supporting agribusiness and education projects in Zimbabwe; helping leprosy-affected communities in Sri Lanka; financing urban mission training in Nairobi; and developing projects in the Southwark Diocese – the Sutton Women’s Centre, Christian CARE Merton and the Salmon Youth Centre.

ELTHAM & MOTTINGHAM ANGLICAN FORUM

The Eltham & Mottingham Anglican Forum will hold its next meeting on Wednesday 1st May at All Saints Church, Bercta Road, New Eltham, at 7:30pm for 8pm. 

The Eltham & Mottingham Anglican Forum is the new name of the local deanery synod, whose previous meetings were for deanery members only. The Anglican churches of Eltham and Mottingham are conducting an experiment, with the blessing of the Bishop of Southwark, whereby all members of all churches are invited to the forum’s meetings. Please see the poster on the church noticeboard in the south aisle.

PILGRIM JOURNEYS

‘However you take this Pilgrim Journey, make space. Allow God’s word to dwell 
in you richly’ (The Archbishops of Canterbury and York).

The Church of England has produced a small booklet for Lent called ‘Pilgrim Journeys, the Beatitudes’. It offers 40 days of reflections, starting from Ash Wednesday and finishing on Palm Sunday. The guide is for anyone to use, exploringwhat each beatitude tells us about Jesus, a vision for human life and the life of the Church. Please pick up a copy of the booklet at the back of church.

THANKS FOR STAMPS

Anne Thomson would like to thank everyone for the bumper haul of stamps she’s been able to send off to support the Air Ambulance. Do please keep collecting, especially when birthday cards arrive, and pop all stamps in the box on the table in the south aisle. Please leave a margin of envelope around. Thank you!

CHRISTIAN AID LENT APPEAL 

Together we can rise up against climate change this Lent.

Life at the sharp edge of climate change has pushed communities to the edge of survival. This Lent, Christian Aid is asking us to put faith into action through thedaily reflections and challenges set out in its ‘Count Your Blessings’ calendar. There’s a copy of the calendar on the church noticeboard for anyone interested in taking part.

SAVE THE DATE – CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 2019

Christian Aid week this year runs from 12th to 18th May, and there’ll be a variety of events taking place at St John’s. Last year, the charity raised £8 million to helppeople living in poverty. Robyn Price will be in touch with details nearer the time.

LOOP SYSTEM

Members of the congregation who have hearing aids will be pleased to know that the loop system in church is now working. 

CONFIRMATION AT ST JOHN’S

On 14th July, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will conduct a confirmation service. If you were baptised as a child, your parents and godparents made promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may wish to confirm these promises for yourself. If you’re interested in confirmation, or if you weren’t baptised as a child but wish to make a commitment of faith, please speak to Fr Jim. 

THE BISHOP OF SOUTHWARK’S LENT CALL 2019
The theme this year for the Bishop’s Lent Call is:

‘I came that they may have life and have it abundantly’ (John 10:10b). 

There are envelopes in St John’s during Lent, marked ‘Bishop’s Lent Call,’ for any donations. This year, funds gathered will go to supporting agribusiness and education projects in Zimbabwe; helping leprosy-affected communities in Sri Lanka; financing urban mission training in Nairobi; and developing projects in the Southwark Diocese – the Sutton Women’s Centre, Christian CARE Merton and the Salmon Youth Centre.

JUNIOR CHURCH

Our Junior Church and crèche, organized and run by members of St John’s, are looking for more adults to get involved. We’re seeing growing numbers of families coming to church, for which we give thanks, and we want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. If you would like to be involved, or have any questions, please speak with Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim.

PILGRIM JOURNEYS

‘However you take this Pilgrim Journey, make space. Allow God’s word to dwell 
in you richly’ (The Archbishops of Canterbury and York).

The Church of England has produced a small booklet for Lent called ‘Pilgrim Journeys, the Beatitudes’. It offers 40 days of reflections, starting from Ash Wednesday and finishing on Palm Sunday. The guide is for anyone to use, exploringwhat each beatitude tells us about Jesus, a vision for human life and the life of the Church. Please pick up a copy of the booklet at the back of church.

BABY NEWS

Many congratulations to bell-ringers Tiffany and Tom Baird, who have just had their first baby. The church bells will ring in celebration today from 3pm to 4pm!

MOTHERING SUNDAY POSIES

If anyone is interested in helping to prepare the posies that are traditionally distributed in church on Mothering Sunday, please speak to Fr Jim or Robyn Price.The posies will be made in church on Saturday 30th March from 10:30am.

CHRISTIAN AID LENT APPEAL 

Together we can rise up against climate change this Lent.

Life at the sharp edge of climate change has pushed communities to the edge of survival. This Lent, Christian Aid is asking us to put faith into action through thedaily reflections and challenges set out in its ‘Count Your Blessings’ calendar. There’s a copy of the calendar on the church noticeboard for anyone interested in taking part.

SAVE THE DATE – CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 2019

Christian Aid week this year runs from 12th to 18th May, and there’ll be a variety of events taking place at St John’s. Last year, the charity raised £8 million to helppeople living in poverty. Robyn Price will be in touch with details nearer the time.

CONFIRMATION:  ADVANCE NOTICE!

On 14th July, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation. If you were baptised as a child, your parents and godparents made promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may wish to confirm these promises for yourself at a confirmation service. If you are interested in confirmation, or if you were not baptised as a child but want to make a commitment of faith as an adult, please speak with Fr Jim.  

THE BISHOP OF SOUTHWARK’S LENT CALL 2019
The theme this year for the Bishop’s Lent Call is:

‘I came that they may have life and have it abundantly’ (John 10:10b). 

There are envelopes in St John’s during Lent, marked ‘Bishop’s Lent Call,’ for any donations. This year, funds gathered will go to supporting agribusiness and education projects in Zimbabwe; helping leprosy-affected communities in Sri Lanka; financing urban mission training in Nairobi; and developing projects in the Southwark Diocese – the Sutton Women’s Centre, Christian CARE Merton and the Salmon Youth Centre.

JUNIOR CHURCH

Our Junior Church and crèche, organized and run by members of St John’s, are looking for more adults to get involved. We’re seeing growing numbers of families coming to church, for which we give thanks, and we want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. If you would like to be involved, or have any questions, please speak with Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim.

PILGRIM JOURNEYS

‘However you take this Pilgrim Journey, make space. Allow God’s word to dwell 
in you richly’ (The Archbishops of Canterbury and York).

The Church of England has produced a small booklet for Lent called ‘Pilgrim Journeys, the Beatitudes’. It offers 40 days of reflections, starting from Ash Wednesday and finishing on Palm Sunday. The guide is for anyone to use, exploringwhat each beatitude tells us about Jesus, a vision for human life and the life of the Church. Please pick up a copy of the booklet at the back of church.

BABY NEWS

Many congratulations to bell-ringers Tiffany and Tom Baird, who have just had their first baby. The church bells will ring in celebration today from 3pm to 4pm!

MOTHERING SUNDAY POSIES

If anyone is interested in helping to prepare the posies that are traditionally distributed in church on Mothering Sunday, please speak to Fr Jim or Robyn Price.The posies will be made in church on Saturday 30th March from 10:30am.

CHRISTIAN AID LENT APPEAL 

Together we can rise up against climate change this Lent.

Life at the sharp edge of climate change has pushed communities to the edge of survival. This Lent, Christian Aid is asking us to put faith into action through thedaily reflections and challenges set out in its ‘Count Your Blessings’ calendar. There’s a copy of the calendar on the church noticeboard for anyone interested in taking part.

SAVE THE DATE – CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 2019

Christian Aid week this year runs from 12th to 18th May, and there’ll be a variety of events taking place at St John’s. Last year, the charity raised £8 million to helppeople living in poverty. Robyn Price will be in touch with details nearer the time.

CONFIRMATION:  ADVANCE NOTICE!

On 14th July, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation. If you were baptised as a child, your parents and godparents made promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may wish to confirm these promises for yourself at a confirmation service. If you are interested in confirmation, or if you were not baptised as a child but want to make a commitment of faith as an adult, please speak with Fr Jim.  

THE BISHOP OF SOUTHWARK’S LENT CALL 2019
The theme this year for the Bishop’s Lent Call is:

‘I came that they may have life and have it abundantly’ (John 10:10b). 

There are envelopes in St John’s during Lent, marked ‘Bishop’s Lent Call,’ for any donations. This year, funds gathered will go to supporting agribusiness and education projects in Zimbabwe; helping leprosy-affected communities in Sri Lanka; financing urban mission training in Nairobi; and developing projects in the Southwark Diocese – the Sutton Women’s Centre, Christian CARE Merton and the Salmon Youth Centre.

JUNIOR CHURCH

Our Junior Church and crèche, organized and run by members of St John’s, are looking for more adults to get involved. We’re seeing growing numbers of families coming to church, for which we give thanks, and we want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. If you would like to be involved, or have any questions, please speak with Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim.

PILGRIM JOURNEYS

‘However you take this Pilgrim Journey, make space. Allow God’s word to dwell 
in you richly’ (The Archbishops of Canterbury and York).

The Church of England has produced a small booklet for Lent called ‘Pilgrim Journeys, the Beatitudes’. It offers 40 days of reflections, starting from Ash Wednesday and finishing on Palm Sunday. The guide is for anyone to use, exploringwhat each beatitude tells us about Jesus, a vision for human life and the life of the Church. Please pick up a copy of the booklet at the back of church.

MOTHERING SUNDAY POSIES

If anyone is interested in helping to prepare the posies that are traditionally distributed in church on Mothering Sunday, please speak to Fr Jim or Robyn Price.

A THANK YOU

Sha Lu would like to thank everyone who bought tickets to the piano concert she organised in half term. Sha raised almost £140 for church funds.

CHRISTIAN AID LENT APPEAL

Together we can rise up against climate change this Lent.

Life at the sharp edge of climate change has pushed communities to the edge of survival. This Lent, Christian Aid is asking us to put faith into action through thedaily reflections and challenges set out in its ‘Count Your Blessings’ calendar. There’s a copy of the calendar on the church noticeboard for anyone interested in taking part.

SAVE THE DATE – CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 2019

Christian Aid week this year runs from 12th May to 18th May, and there’ll be a variety of events taking place at St John’s. For more than 70 years, the charity hashelped to change the lives of people living in poverty around the world. Last year, it raised £8 million. Robyn Price will be in touch with further details nearer the time.

NEXT WEEK’S CHURCH NEWS

Please send any items for inclusion in next Sunday’s news sheet to Amanda 

Jordan at amanda.jordan@virgin.net by Wednesday morning. Thank you.

THE BISHOP OF SOUTHWARK’S LENT CALL 2019
The theme this year for the Bishop’s Lent Call is:

‘I came that they may have life and have it abundantly’ (John 10:10b). 

There will be envelopes in St John’s during Lent, marked ‘Bishop’s Lent Call,’ for any donations. This year, funds gathered will go to supporting agribusiness andeducation projects in Zimbabwe; helping leprosy-affected communities in Sri Lanka; financing urban mission training in Nairobi; and developing projects in the SouthwarkDiocese –the Sutton Women’s Centre, Christian CARE Merton and the Salmon Youth Centre.

JUNIOR CHURCH

Our Junior Church and crèche, organized and run by members of St John’s, are looking for more adults to get involved. We’re seeing growing numbers of families coming to church, for which we give thanks, and want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. If you would like to be involved, or have any questions, please speak with Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim.

PILGRIM JOURNEYS

‘However you take this Pilgrim Journey, make space. Allow God’s word to dwell in you richly’ (The Archbishops of Canterbury and York).

The Church of England has produced a small booklet for Lent called ‘Pilgrim Journeys, the Beatitudes’. It offers 40 days of reflections, starting from Ash Wednesday and finishing on Palm Sunday. The guide is for anyone to use, exploringwhat each beatitude tells us about Jesus, a vision for human life and the life of the Church. Please pick up a copy of the booklet at the back of church.

ASH WEDNESDAY

There’ll be a Solemn Eucharist with the Imposition of Ashes at 7pm on 6th March. 

NEW ELECTORAL ROLL

A new electoral roll is required this year. To that end, we need everyone eligible to sign up: all those who are baptised, at least 16 years of age and resident in the parish – or if not resident, a regular worshipper at St John’s for at least six months.

Forms and pens are available on tables in the south aisle. If you’re not sure whether to tick box A or B (ie. if you’re unsure whether you’re in the parish), ask the Electoral Roll Officer – Mary Roberts – or consult the list of streets in the parish, copies of which are on the tables. Please place your completed form in the box provided.

All parishes must have an up-to-date electoral roll to present to the annual meeting, which is usually held close to Easter. Every six years, a new roll must be compiled. Its main purpose is to provide an electoral body in each parish, tasked with electing the Parochial Church Council and representatives on the Deanery Synod. It also provides the nearest thing the Church of England has to an official list of members of a particular parish church. Please see the poster on the noticeboard for more details.

A SAFE CHURCH

At St John’s, we are committed to keeping our church members safe. This means we take measures to protect the health, wellbeing and human rights of all. It is our collective responsibility to take care of, look out for and help each other in church – especially children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you have any questions or safeguarding concerns, you can speak to our safeguarding officers in confidence: Mick Hayes on 020 8859 3389 or Alberta Rosenior on 020 8863 9413. You can also contact the Southwark Diocesan Safeguarding Team – see elthamchurch.org.uk.

THE BISHOP OF SOUTHWARK’S LENT CALL 2019

The theme this year for the Bishop’s Lent Call is:

‘I came that they may have life and have it abundantly’ (John 10:10b). 

There will be envelopes in St John’s during Lent, marked ‘Bishop’s Lent Call,’ for any donations. This year, funds gathered will go to supporting agribusiness andeducation projects in Zimbabwe; helping leprosy-affected communities in Sri Lanka; financing urban mission training in Nairobi; and developing projects in the SouthwarkDiocese –the Sutton Women’s Centre, Christian CARE Merton and the Salmon Youth Centre.

CONFIRMATION: ADVANCE NOTICE!

On 14th July, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation. If you were baptised as a child, your parents and godparents made promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may wish to confirm these promises for yourself at a confirmation service. If you are interested in confirmation, or If you were not baptised as a child but want to make a commitment of faith as an adult, please speak with Fr Jim.  

JUNIOR CHURCH

Our Junior Church and crèche, organized and run by members of St John’s, are looking for more adults to get involved. We’re seeing growing numbers of families coming to church, for which we give thanks, and want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. If you would like to be involved, or have any questions, please speak with Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim.

NEW ELECTORAL ROLL

A new electoral roll is required this year. To that end, we need everyone eligible to sign up: all those who are baptised, at least 16 years of age and resident in the parish – or if not resident, a regular worshipper at St John’s for at least six months.

Forms and pens are available on tables in the south aisle. If you’re not sure whether to tick box A or B (ie. if you’re unsure whether you’re in the parish), ask the Electoral Roll Officer – Mary Roberts – or consult the list of streets in the parish, copies of which are on the tables. Please place your completed form in the box provided.

All parishes must have an up-to-date electoral roll to present to the annual meeting, which is usually held close to Easter. Every six years, a new roll must be compiled. Its main purpose is to provide an electoral body in each parish, tasked with electing the Parochial Church Council and representatives on the Deanery Synod. It also provides the nearest thing the Church of England has to an official list of members of a particular parish church. Please see the poster on the noticeboard for more details.

A SAFE CHURCH

At St John’s, we are committed to keeping our church members safe. This means we take measures to protect the health, wellbeing and human rights of all. It is our collective responsibility to take care of, look out for and help each other in church – especially children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you have any questions or safeguarding concerns, you can speak to our safeguarding officers in confidence: Mick Hayes on 020 8859 3389 or Alberta Rosenior on 020 8863 9413. You can also contact the Southwark Diocesan Safeguarding Team – see elthamchurch.org.uk.

ASH WEDNESDAY

There will be a Solemn Eucharist with the Imposition of Ashes at 7pm on Wednesday 6th March.

PIANO CONCERT

Sha Lu will lead a concert of piano music – played by herself and young children – at St John’s on Friday 22nd February at 3pm. Tickets cost £2, with all proceeds going to church funds. Sha will sell tickets after the Eucharist today at the back of church.

ST PAUL’S ADULT LEARNING

St Paul’s Cathedral has published its latest adult-learning programme. Events include two free evening discussions: Rowan Williams on ‘Jesus Christ The Unanswered Questions’ on Wednesday 27th March; and Barbara Brown Taylor on ‘Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others’ on Thursday 30th May. 

There’s also a reflective day on Saturday 30th March entitled ‘Imagining Peace’, at St Katharine’s Foundation in Limehouse, east London. Pádraig Ó Tuama, a poet and theologian based in Belfast, will lead a discussion on peace and conflict within ourselves, in our communities and in politics.

Visit stpauls.co.uk/learning-faith/adult-learning for ticketing and further details, see the posters on the noticeboard, and pick up a leaflet at the back of church.

JUNIOR CHURCH

Our Junior Church and crèche, organized and run by members of St John’s, are looking for more adults to get involved. We’re seeing growing numbers of familiescoming to church, for which we give thanks, and want to make sure our Junior Church and crèche are well-staffed to welcome all children. If you would like to be involved, or have any questions, please speak with Alex MacKenzie or Fr Jim.

DEMOCRACY AND THE COMMON GOOD: WHO IS WELCOME HERE?

Tomorrow, Monday 18th February at 6:30pm, the Rt Revd Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London, will lead a panel discussion on ‘Democracy and the Common Good’ at St Paul’s Cathedral. The event will look at the prospect of Brexit and its implications for London in relation to freedom of movement and labour. Asking ‘what kind of city do we want to be?’ the speakers will consider: ‘who is welcome here?’ The event is free of charge but donations are welcome. Sign up at whoiswelcome.eventbrite.co.uk.

A SAFE CHURCH

At St John’s, we are committed to keeping our church members safe. This means we take measures to protect the health, wellbeing and human rights of all. It is our collective responsibility to take care of, look out for and help each other in church – especially children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you have any questions or safeguarding concerns, you can speak to our safeguarding officers in confidence: Mick Hayes on 020 8859 3389 or Alberta Rosenior on 020 8863 9413. You can also contact the Southwark Diocesan Safeguarding Team – see elthamchurch.org.uk.

CONFIRMATION: ADVANCE NOTICE!

On 14th July, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation.

If you were baptised as a child, your parents and godparents made promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may wish to confirm these promises for yourself at a confirmation service. If you were not baptised but still want to make a commitment of faith, you can be baptised and confirmed at the same service. You may then share in the bread and wine of Holy Communion for the first time. 

If you are interested in confirmation, confirmation with baptism, or being admitted to Holy Communion with Bishop Karowei in July, please speak with Fr Jim.

PIANO CONCERT

Sha Lu will lead a concert of piano music – played by herself and young children – at St John’s on Friday 22nd February at 3pm. Tickets cost £2, with all proceeds going to church funds. Sha will sell tickets after the Eucharist today at the back of church.

ST PAUL’S ADULT LEARNING

St Paul’s Cathedral has published its latest adult-learning programme. Events include two free evening discussions: Rowan Williams on ‘Jesus Christ The Unanswered Questions’ on Wednesday 27th March; and Barbara Brown Taylor on ‘Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others’ on Thursday 30th May. 

There’s also a reflective day on Saturday 30th March entitled ‘Imagining Peace’, at St Katharine’s Foundation in Limehouse, east London. Pádraig Ó Tuama, a poet and theologian based in Belfast, will lead a discussion on peace and conflict within ourselves, in our communities and in politics.

Visit stpauls.co.uk/learning-faith/adult-learning for ticketing and further details, see the posters on the noticeboard, and pick up a leaflet at the back of church.

NEW ELECTORAL ROLL 

A new electoral roll is required this year. To that end, we need everyone eligible tosign up: all those who are baptised, at least 16 years of age and resident in the parish – or if not resident, a regular worshipper at St John’s for at least six months.

Forms and pens are available on tables in the south aisle. If you’re not sure whether to tick box A or B (ie. if you’re unsure whether you’re in the parish), ask the Electoral Roll Officer – Mary Roberts – or consult the list of streets in the parish, copies of which are on the tables. Please place your completed form in the box provided.

All parishes must have an up-to-date electoral roll to present to the annual meeting, which is usually held close to Easter. Every six years, a new roll must be compiled. Its main purpose is to provide an electoral body in each parish, tasked with electing the Parochial Church Council and representatives on the Deanery Synod. It also provides the nearest thing the Church of England has to an official list of members of a particular parish church. Please see the poster on the noticeboard for more details.

A SAFE CHURCH

At St John’s, we are committed to keeping our church members safe. This means we take measures to protect the health, wellbeing and human rights of all. It is our collective responsibility to take care of, look out for and help each other in church – especially children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you have any questions or safeguarding concerns, you can speak to our safeguarding officers in confidence: Mick Hayes on 020 8859 3389 or Alberta Rosenior on 020 8863 9413. You can also contact the Southwark Diocesan Safeguarding Team – see elthamchurch.org.uk.

CONFIRMATION: ADVANCE NOTICE!

On 14th July, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation.

If you were baptised as a child, your parents and godparents made promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may wish to confirm these promises for yourself at a confirmation service. If you were not baptised but still want to make a commitment of faith, you can be baptised and confirmed at the same service. You may then share in the bread and wine of Holy Communion for the first time. 

If you are interested in confirmation, confirmation with baptism, or being admitted to Holy Communion with Bishop Karowei in July, please speak with Fr Jim.

CHRISTIAN AID – GIVE PEACE A CHANCE

Christian Aid Week 2019 takes place in May, and will be discussed at a launch event on Thursday 7th February at the charity’s head office in Lower Marsh, Waterloo.There’ll be two sessions that day, at 2pm-4.30pm and 6pm-8pm, which will include an introduction to the new global strategy, exploring Christian Aid’s key areas of focus: poverty, power and prophetic voice. If you are interested in attending and would like more information, please speak with Robyn Price or Fr Jim.

ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL ADULT LEARNING

St Paul’s has published its latest adult-learning programme. Events include two free evening discussions: Rowan Williams on ‘Jesus Christ The Unanswered Questions’ on 27th March; and Barbara Brown Taylor on ‘Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others’ on 30th May. There’s also a reflective day on 30th March entitled ‘Imagining Peace’, at St Katharine’s Foundation in Limehouse. Pádraig Ó Tuama, a poet and theologian based in Belfast, will lead a discussion on peace and conflict within ourselves, in our communities and in politics. See the posters on the noticeboard.

NEW ELECTORAL ROLL 

A new electoral roll is required this year. To that end, we need everyone eligible tosign up: all those who are baptised, at least 16 years of age and resident in the parish – or if not resident, a regular worshipper at St John’s for at least six months.

Forms and pens are available on tables in the south aisle. If you’re not sure whether to tick box A or B (ie. if you’re unsure whether you’re in the parish), ask the Electoral Roll Officer – Mary Roberts – or consult the list of streets in the parish, copies of which are on the tables. Please place your completed form in the box provided.

All parishes must have an up-to-date electoral roll to present to the annual meeting, which is usually held close to Easter. Every six years, a new roll must be compiled. Its main purpose is to provide an electoral body in each parish, tasked with electing the Parochial Church Council and representatives on the Deanery Synod. It also provides the nearest thing the Church of England has to an official list of members of a particular parish church. Please see the poster on the noticeboard for more details.

A SAFE CHURCH

At St John’s, we are committed to keeping our church members safe. This means we take measures to protect the health, wellbeing and human rights of all. It is our collective responsibility to take care of, look out for and help each other in church – especially children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you have any questions or safeguarding concerns, you can speak to our safeguarding officers in confidence: Mick Hayes on 020 8859 3389 or Alberta Rosenior on 020 8863 9413. You can also contact the Southwark Diocesan Safeguarding Team – see elthamchurch.org.uk.

CONFIRMATION: ADVANCE NOTICE!

On 14th July, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, will come to St John’s for a Service of Confirmation.

If you were baptised as a child, your parents and godparents made promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may wish to confirm these promises for yourself at a confirmation service. If you were not baptised but still want to make a commitment of faith, you can be baptised and confirmed at the same service. You may then share in the bread and wine of Holy Communion for the first time. 

If you are interested in confirmation, confirmation with baptism, or being admitted to Holy Communion with Bishop Karowei in July, please speak with Fr Jim.

CHRISTIAN AID – GIVE PEACE A CHANCE

Christian Aid Week 2019 takes place in May, and will be discussed at a launch event on Thursday 7th February at the charity’s head office in Lower Marsh, Waterloo.There’ll be two sessions that day, at 2pm-4.30pm and 6pm-8pm, which will include an introduction to the new global strategy, exploring Christian Aid’s key areas of focus: poverty, power and prophetic voice. If you are interested in attending and would like more information, please speak with Robyn Price or Fr Jim.

ST PAUL’S ADULT LEARNING

St Paul’s Cathedral has published its adult-learning programme for the first half of 2019. Events include two free evening discussions: Rowan Williams on ‘Jesus Christ The Unanswered Questions’ on Wednesday 27th March; and Barbara Brown Taylor on ‘Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others’ on Thursday 30th May. 

There’s also a reflective day on Saturday 30th March entitled ‘Imagining Peace’, at St Katharine’s Foundation in Limehouse. Pádraig Ó Tuama, a poet and theologian based in Belfast, will lead a discussion on peace and conflict within ourselves, in our communities and in politics. See the posters on the noticeboard and pick up a leaflet.

CHURCH HANDRAILS

The Parochial Church Council has received planning consent for handrails to be fitted to the steps between the war memorial and the main door to the church. The council will now seek diocesan approval. 

RAISING FUNDS FOR THE JUNIOR DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION

The JDRF is holding an ‘Evening of Light Verse’ on Saturday 2nd February at St Mary the Virgin Church Hall, Wickham Street, Welling, DA16 3QU. There is no charge but a retiring collection will be held. If you’re interested in going along, please contact alan.wiltcher@gmail.com as numbers are needed for refreshment purposes. The evening starts at 7pm and finishes at 9.30pm. See the noticeboard for more details.

WALKING | WELCOMING | GROWING: THE WOOLWICH AREA LAY CONFERENCE

For all those planning to attend the Woolwich Area Lay Conference on Saturday 2nd February, there are forms at the back of church listing all the available workshops. If you would like to come along but haven’t yet registered, email emma.kimsey@southwark.anglican.org or speak with Fr Jim. The conference will take place at Ark All Saints Academy in Camberwell, running from 10am to 4pm.

A SAFE CHURCH

At St John’s, we are committed to keeping our church members safe. This means we take measures to protect the health, wellbeing and human rights of all. It is our collective responsibility to take care of, look out for and help each other in church – especially children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you have any questions or safeguarding concerns, you can speak to our safeguarding officers in confidence: Mick Hayes on 020 8859 3389 or Alberta Rosenior on 020 8863 9413. You can also contact the Southwark Diocesan Safeguarding Team – see elthamchurch.org.uk for contacts.

PARISH SUPPORT FUND

Bishop Christopher has written to convey his thanks for our contributions to the Parish Support Fund. Every church in the diocese gives money to the fund, which helps to pay for church buildings, vicarages and vicars. St John’s gives 50% of its income; that’s over £36,000 last year, or more than £3,000 a month. This money is raised mostly through donations from you, our congregation. Pledges to the PSF across the diocese for 2019 exceed £16 million. Bishop Christopher said he’s ‘very encouraged by the response’.

SERVERS‘ FESTIVAL

All servers are invited to attend the Diocesan Guild of Servers’ Festival on Saturday 26th January at Southwark Cathedral. The day will begin at 12.30pm with a Choral Eucharist, with the Bishop of Southwark, the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun,presiding. 

At 2.45pm, there’ll be session for adult servers entitled ‘Called to Serve,’ led by the Very Revd Andrew Nunn, Dean of Southwark, as well as an activity for under-16s. The festival will end with a Choral Evensong at 4pm. Please register at eventbrite.co.uk.

PARISH SUPPORT FUND

Bishop Christopher has written to convey his thanks for our contributions to the Parish Support Fund. Every church in the diocese gives money to the fund, which helps to pay for church buildings, vicarages and vicars. St John’s gives 50% of its income; that’s over £36,000 last year, or more than £3,000 a month. This money is raised mostly through donations from you, our congregation. Pledges to the PSF across the diocese for 2019 exceed £16 million. Bishop Christopher said he’s ‘very encouraged by the response’.

CHURCH HANDRAILS

The Parochial Church Council has received planning consent for handrails to be fitted to the steps between the war memorial and the main door to the church. The council will now seek diocesan approval. 

RAISING FUNDS FOR THE JUNIOR DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION

The JDRF is holding an ‘Evening of Light Verse’ on Saturday 2nd February at St Mary the Virgin Church Hall, Wickham Street, Welling, DA16 3QU. There is no charge but a retiring collection will be held. If you’re interested in going along, please contact alan.wiltcher@gmail.com as numbers are needed for refreshment purposes. The evening starts at 7pm and finishes at 9.30pm. See the noticeboard for more details.

WALKING | WELCOMING | GROWING: THE WOOLWICH AREA LAY CONFERENCE

For all those planning to attend the Woolwich Area Lay Conference on 2nd February, there are now forms at the back of church listing all the workshops. If you’d like to come along but haven’t yet registered, email emma.kimsey@southwark.anglican.orgor speak with Fr Jim. The conference will take place at Ark All Saints Academy in Camberwell, running from 10am to 4pm.

‘ONLY JUSTICE’: THE WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY 2019

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2019 runs from 18th-25th January. The theme this year – ‘Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue’ – is inspired by Deuteronomy 16:18-20. Material for the week has been produced by the churches of Indonesia, where there’s a strong focus on fostering unity amid ethnic and religious diversity. Resources can be found on the World Council of Churches website atoikoumene.org.

CHRISTIAN AID – GIVE PEACE A CHANCE

Christian Aid Week 2019 takes place in May, and will be discussed at a launch event on Thursday 7th February at the charity’s head office in Lower Marsh, Waterloo.There’ll be two sessions that day, at 2pm-4.30pm and 6pm-8pm, which will includean introduction to the new global strategy, exploring Christian Aid’s key areas of focus: poverty, power and prophetic voice. If you are interested in attending and would like more information, please speak with Robyn Price or Fr Jim.

ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL ADULT LEARNING

St Paul’s has published its adult-learning programme for the first half of 2019. Please see the posters on the noticeboard and pick up a leaflet at the back of church.

NEXT WEEK’S CHURCH NEWS

Please send any items for inclusion in next Sunday’s news sheet to Amanda Jordan at amanda.jordan@virgin.net by Wednesday morning. Thank you.

Parish Priest: Revd James Bryson – Tel. 020 8859 0802

SERVERS‘ FESTIVAL

All servers are invited to attend the Diocesan Guild of Servers’ Festival on Saturday 26th January at Southwark Cathedral. The day will begin at 12.30pm with a ChoralEucharist, with the Bishop of Southwark, the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun,presiding.

At 2.45pm, there’ll be session for adult servers entitled ‘Called to Serve,’ led by the Very Revd Andrew Nunn, Dean of Southwark, as well as an activity for under-16s. The festival will end with a Choral Evensong at 4pm. Please register at eventbrite.co.uk.

PARISH SUPPORT FUND

Bishop Christopher has written to convey his thanks for our contributions to the Parish Support Fund. Every church in the diocese gives money to the fund, which helps to pay for church buildings, vicarages and vicars. St John’s gives 50% of its income; that’s over £36,000 last year, or more than £3,000 a month. This money is raised mostly through donations from you, our congregation. Pledges to the PSF across the diocese for 2019 exceed £16 million. Bishop Christopher said he’s ‘very encouraged by the response’.

WALKING | WELCOMING | GROWING: THE WOOLWICH AREA LAY CONFERENCE

For all those planning to attend the Woolwich Area Lay Conference on 2nd February, there are now forms at the back of church listing all the available workshops. 

If you’d like to come along but haven’t yet registered, please contact emma.kimsey@southwark.anglican.org or speak with Fr Jim. The conference, aimed at equipping lay people to grow in confidence in their faith as witnesses to Jesus Christ, will take place at Ark All Saints Academy in Camberwell, from 10am to 4pm.

‘ONLY JUSTICE’: THE WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY 2019

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2019 runs from 18th-25th January. The theme this year – ‘Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue’ – is inspired by Deuteronomy 16:18-20. Material for the week has been produced by the churches of Indonesia, where there’s a strong focus on fostering unity amid ethnic and religious diversity. Resources can be found on the World Council of Churches website atoikoumene.org.

CHRISTIAN AID – GIVE PEACE A CHANCE

Thanks to everyone who contributed to the Christian Aid collection over Christmas –we raised £134.26. We’re now looking ahead to Christian Aid Week 2019 in May, to be discussed at a launch event on Thursday 7th February at Christian Aid’s head office in Lower Marsh, Waterloo. There’ll be two sessions that day, at 2pm-4.30pm and 6pm-8pm, which will include an introduction to the new global strategy, exploring the charity’s key areas of focus: poverty, power and prophetic voice. If you are interested in attending and would like more information, please speak to Robyn Price or Fr Jim.

ST PAUL’S ADULT LEARNING

St Paul’s Cathedral has published its adult-learning programme for the first half of 2019. Events include two free evening discussions: Rowan Williams on ‘Jesus Christ The Unanswered Questions’ on Wednesday 27th March; and Barbara Brown Taylor on ‘Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others’ on Thursday 30th May.

There are also still places for the reflective day on Saturday 30th March entitled ‘Imagining Peace’. Pádraig Ó Tuama, a poet and theologian based in Belfast, will lead a discussion on peace and conflict within ourselves, in our communities and in politics. The day takes place at St Katharine’s Foundation in Limehouse, east London. 

Please see the posters on the noticeboard and pick up a leaflet at the back of church.

NEXT WEEK’S CHURCH NEWS

Please send any items for inclusion in next Sunday’s news sheet to Amanda 

Jordan at amanda.jordan@virgin.net by Wednesday morning. Thank you.