Author: elthamch

CHRISTMAS FAIR

Thank you to everyone who came to our Christmas Fair on Saturday, as well as to all those who helped make it a success! We’ll give an update on funds raised in the coming weeks.

FOODBANK  CHRISTMAS APPEAL

Over the past year, Greenwich Foodbank has provided food packs to 7,000 people. Can you help them out with contributions this Christmas? They’re hoping to include some seasonal items, such as mince pies and puddings, as well as small gifts. Among the basic provisions most needed are tinned meat and vegetables, long-life milk and fruit juice. Please place your contributions in the basket at the back of church. Thank you for your help!

ELTHAM CHURCH OF ENGLAND SCHOOL SUCCESS

Eltham Church of England Primary School has been listed by the Sunday Times in the top 250 maintained primary schools in England. That’s a significant achievement, as there are around 16,800 such schools in the country. Congratulations to the staff, children, parents, carers and governors!

ADVENT

On 17th December, a candlelit service of nine lessons and carols will take place at 6pm, followed by mince pies and mulled wine. All are welcome!

ELTHAM WAR MEMORIAL

The Eltham War Memorial, which stands below the church tower, has been recognised by Historic England as a Building of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. It’s been listed as Grade II on the National Heritage List for England.

CECIL ROBERTS

Cecil Roberts, a member of St John’s for 40 years, died peacefully at home on 11th November. Cecil had been active in the life of the church, particularly during his time as treasurer. As a sidesman, he was very welcoming, making a point of talking to newcomers. He’ll be much missed. Cecil’s funeral will be held at St John’s on 8th December at 12 noon. Please keep Cecil, Megan and all the family in your prayers.

WELCARE NEWS

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

Could you give a few hours every two weeks? Welcare, a Christian charity offering practical and emotional support to families in difficulty, are looking for volunteers. Welcare provides one-to-one sessions for parents and children in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment. For more information, please see the poster on the noticeboard and pick up a leaflet at the back of church.

FUNDRAISING DRIVE

Welcare has launched its first ever crowdfunding campaign. The organization needs to raise £29,000 for a Family Support Worker to reach out to more vulnerable children and families across southeast London. Please visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/supportwelcare to find out more, watch the video and contribute to this campaign. Thank you for your support!

CHRISTMAS FAIR

Our Christmas Fair will take place in church on Saturday 2nd December from 10am to 2pm. Do come along and bring friends and family.

As always, we rely on your help and support to make the fair a success. We’d appreciate any donations of paperback books, CDs and DVDs; fancy goods, toiletries and bottles for the tombola; cakes and preserves; bric-a-brac and jewellery; toys and games; and anything of a Christmassy nature!

Goods can be left at the back of church, though please bring cakes in on Friday 1st December or the following morning. If you’re able to help out in advance or on the day, please speak with Gill Hayes or Fr Jim. Gill will also be selling raffle tickets in church after the Eucharist today. Tickets are £1 for a strip of five.

CECIL ROBERTS

Cecil Roberts, a member of St John’s for 40 years, died peacefully at home on 11th November. Cecil had been active in the life of the church, particularly during his time as treasurer. As a sidesman, he was very welcoming, making a point of talking to newcomers. He’ll be much missed. Cecil’s funeral will be at St John’s on 8th December at 12 noon. Please keep Cecil, Megan and all the family in your prayers.

ADVENT

A Parish Eucharist will be held at 10am as usual on 3rd December, Advent Sunday. On 17th December, a candlelit service of nine lessons and carols will take place at 6pm, followed by mince pies and mulled wine. All are welcome!

ELTHAM WAR MEMORIAL

The Eltham War Memorial, which stands below the church tower, has been recognised by Historic England as a Building of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. It has been listed as Grade II on the National Heritage List for England.

ELTHAM CHURCH OF ENGLAND SCHOOL SUCCESS

Eltham Church of England Primary School has been listed by the Sunday Times in the top 250 maintained primary schools in England. That’s a significant achievement, as there are around 16,800 such schools in the country. Congratulations to the staff, children, parents, carers and governors!

MISSION ACTION PLAN

During Easter, 25 members of St John’s came together to share their views on the mission and ministry of the church. Out of that gathering came the Mission Action Plan, a step towards an increased awareness of St John’s God-given identity and purpose and the expression of its mission in the community. Copies are available at the back of church – please take just one per family where possible.

VOLUNTEER FOR WELCARE

Could you give a few hours every two weeks? Welcare, a Christian charity offering practical and emotional support to families in difficulty, are looking for volunteers. Welcare provides one-to-one sessions for parents and children in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment. For more information, please see the poster on the noticeboard and pick up a leaflet at the back of church.

PANTOMIME

Last chance to sign up for our visit to Cinderella! We’ve reserved 64 seats for the 2pm matinee at the Bob Hope Theatre on Saturday 20th January. Tickets cost £10 (£8 concessions). Please put your name on the list in church. Payment is due by the end of November. For more details, speak to Patricia Allen or Gill Hayes.

CHRISTMAS FAIR

Our Christmas Fair will take place in church on Saturday 2nd December from 10am to 2pm. Do come along and bring friends and family.

As always, we rely on your help and support to make the fair a success. We’d appreciate any donations of paperback books, CDs and DVDs; fancy goods, toiletries and bottles for the tombola; cakes and preserves; bric-a-brac and jewellery; toys and games; and anything of a Christmassy nature!

Goods can be left at the back of church, though please bring cakes in on Friday 1st December or the following morning. If you’re able to help out in advance or on the day, please speak with Gill Hayes or Fr Jim. Gill will also be selling raffle tickets in church after the Eucharist today and next week. Tickets are £1 for a strip of five.

CECIL ROBERTS

Cecil Roberts, a member of St John’s for 40 years, died peacefully at home on 11th November. Cecil had been active in the life of the church, particularly during his time as treasurer. As a sidesman, he was very welcoming, making a point of talking to newcomers. He’ll be much missed. Cecil’s funeral will be at St John’s on 8th December at 12 noon. Please keep Cecil, Megan and all the family in your prayers.

ST CECILIA FESTIVAL CHORUS

The St Cecilia Festival Chorus will put on their annual concert at Holy Trinity Church in Eltham on Saturday 25th November at 7:30pm. The music includes Gounod’s Messe Solennelle de Sainte-Cecile, as well as works by Bach, Parry, Franck, Bruckner and Stanford. Entrance is free and there’ll be a retiring collection in aid of the Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice. Please see the poster on the notice board for more details.

MISSION ACTION PLAN

During Easter, 25 members of St John’s came together to share their views on the mission and ministry of the church. Out of that gathering came the Mission Action Plan, a step towards an increased awareness of St John’s God-given identity and purpose and the expression of its mission in the community. Copies of the plan are available on the table at the back of church – there are only 50 so please take just one per family where possible.

PANTOMIME

The 2018 pantomime at the Bob Hope Theatre is the traditional tale of Cinderella. Tickets are £10 full price and £8 concessions (under 14 or 60+). We’ve reserved 64 seats for the 2pm matinee on Saturday 20th January and hope you’ll join us for an enjoyable afternoon for the young and not-so-young alike. Please put your name on the list in church, with the number of tickets you require. Payment is due by the end of November. For more information, speak to Patricia Allen or Gill Hayes.

SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL DIARIES

Diaries for 2018 are now in. They have a dark red cover, show weeks starting Sunday, and cost £1. If you’d like one, please speak to Margaret Taylor, who goes to the cathedral regularly and would be happy to pick up diaries at no extra cost.

GREENWICH FOODBANK
Greenwich Foodbank helps many people in need and our contributions are much appreciated. At present, the organisers are short of tinned fruit and veg, rice and long-life fruit juice. They have plenty of pasta and ask that we please don’t donate baby food. Any items can be left in the basket at the back of church. Thank you!

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY SERVICES

Today’s Parish Eucharist will end by 10:45am. The service will be followed by

an act of remembrance at the War Memorial with the Bishop of Woolwich, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, as well as the mayor of Greenwich, members of the armed forces, the Royal British Legion and other civic leaders. A Service of Remembrance in church will then close the commemoration. All are welcome.

MISSION ACTION PLAN

During Easter, 25 members of St John’s came together to share their views on the mission and ministry of the church. Out of that gathering came the Mission Action Plan, a step towards an increased awareness of St John’s God-given identity and purpose and the expression of its mission in the community. Copies of the plan are available on the table at the back of church – there are only 50 so please take just one per family where possible.

ST CECILIA FESTIVAL CHORUS

The St Cecilia Festival Chorus will put on their annual concert at Holy Trinity Church in Eltham on Saturday 25th November at 7:30pm. Music includes Gounod’s Messe Solennelle de Sainte-Cecile, as well as works by Bach, Parry, Franck, Bruckner and Stanford. Entrance is free and there’ll be a retiring collection in aid of the Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice. Please see the poster on the notice board for more details.

CHRISTMAS FAIR

Our Christmas Fair will take place in church on Saturday 2nd December from 10am to 2pm. Do come along and bring friends and family. As always, we rely on your help and support to make it a success. We’d appreciate any donations of paperback books, CDs and DVDs; fancy goods, toiletries and bottles for the tombola; cakes and preserves; bric-a-brac and jewellery; toys and games; and anything of a Christmassy nature! Goods can be left at the back of church, though please bring cakes in on Friday 1st December or the following morning. If you’re able to help out in advance or on the day, please speak with Gill Hayes or Fr Jim.

PANTOMIME

The 2018 pantomime at the Bob Hope Theatre is the traditional tale of Cinderella. Tickets are £10 full price and £8 concessions (under 14 or 60+). We’ve reserved 64 seats for the 2pm matinee on Saturday 20th January and hope you’ll join us for an enjoyable afternoon for the young and not-so-young alike. Please put your name on the list in church, with the number of tickets you require. Payment is due by the end of November. For more information, speak to Patricia Allen or Gill Hayes.

SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL DIARIES

Diaries for 2018 are now in. They have a dark red cover, show weeks starting Sunday, and cost £1. If you’d like one, please speak to Margaret Taylor, who goes to the cathedral regularly and would be happy to pick up diaries at no extra cost.

GREENWICH FOODBANK
Greenwich Foodbank helps many people in need and our contributions are much appreciated. At present, the organisers are short of tinned fruit and veg, rice and long-life fruit juice. They have plenty of pasta and ask that we please don’t donate baby food. Any items can be left in the basket at the back of church. Thank you!

WINTER FAIR – SAVE THE DATE

Our Winter Fair will take place in church on Saturday 2nd December from 10am to 2pm. Do come along and bring friends and family. If you’re able to help out in advance or on the day, please speak with Gill Hayes. Further details to follow.

MISSION ACTION PLAN

During Easter, 25 members of St John’s came together to share their views on the mission and ministry of the church. Out of that gathering came the Mission Action Plan, a step towards an increased awareness of St John’s God-given identity and purpose and the expression of its mission in the community. Copies of the plan are available on the table at the back of church – there are only 50 so please take just one per family where possible.

SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL DIARIES

Small Southwark Cathedral diaries for 2018 are now in. They have a dark red cover, show weeks starting Sunday, and cost £1. Margaret Taylor, who goes to the cathedral regularly, would be happy to pick up diaries at no extra cost. Please speak to Margaret if you would like one.

ARMISTICE DAY AND REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

On Saturday 11th November, Armistice Day, there will be a short act of remembrance at the War Memorial at 10:55am. The next day, Remembrance Sunday, the Bishop of Woolwich, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, will preside at the 10am Eucharist, which will end by 10:45am. The service will be followed by

an act of remembrance at the War Memorial with the bishop, the mayor of Greenwich, members of the armed forces, the Royal British Legion and other civic leaders. A Service of Remembrance in church then closes the commemoration.

GREENWICH FOODBANK
Greenwich Foodbank helps many people in need and our contributions are much appreciated. At present, the organisers are short of tinned fruit and veg, rice and long-life fruit juice. They have plenty of pasta and ask that we please don’t donate baby food. Any items can be left in the basket at the back of church. Thank you!

PANTOMIME

The 2018 pantomime at the Bob Hope Theatre is the traditional tale of Cinderella. Tickets are £10 full price and £8 concessions (under 14 or 60+). We’ve reserved 64 seats for the 2pm matinee on Saturday 20th January and hope you’ll join us for an enjoyable afternoon for the young and not-so-young alike. Please put your name on the list in church, with the number of tickets you require. Payment is due by the end of November. For more information, speak to Patricia Allen or Gill Hayes.

VOLUNTEER FOR THE CHILDREN’S SOCIETY

After more than 40 years as parish representative to the Children’s Society, Mary Roberts is stepping back from the role. St John’s has raised more than £42,000 for the society since 1984 and is keen to continue its support of vulnerable children. If you would like to take on this position – or find out more – please speak with Mary or Fr Jim.

BOROUGH OF CULTURE BID

There’ll be a public workshop at the Eltham Centre on Wednesday 1st November to discuss Greenwich’s bid to become a ‘London Borough of Culture’. The meeting will run from 5pm to 8pm and is free for all to attend, but spaces are limited so please book ahead: visit www.eventbrite.co.uk and search on Culture Borough. The first London Borough of Culture will be announced in 2018.

MARGARET GARDNER

As most of you know, Margaret Gardner, a member of our congregation, died earlier this month. Her funeral will be at St John’s this Friday at 2pm. All members of the church are welcome to join the family afterwards at the Woodcroft Club on Eltham High Street. Please remember Margaret in your prayers.

SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL DIARIES

Small Southwark Cathedral diaries for 2018 are now in. They have a dark red cover, show weeks starting Sunday, and cost £1. Margaret Taylor, who goes to the cathedral regularly, would be happy to pick up diaries at no extra cost. Please speak to Margaret if you would like one.

ALL SOULS, ALL SAINTS AND REMEMBRANCE

There will be a ‘Commemoration of the Faithful Departed’, also known as All Souls, service this Thursday at 7pm, when we remember loved ones who have died. Next Sunday, there’ll be an ‘All Saints’ Parish Eucharist.

On Saturday 11th November, Armistice Day, there will be a short act of remembrance at the War Memorial at 10:55am. The next day, Remembrance Sunday, the Bishop of Woolwich, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, will preside at the 10am Eucharist, which will end by 10:45am. The service will be followed by an act of remembrance at the War Memorial with the bishop, the mayor of Greenwich, members of the armed forces, the Royal British Legion and other civic leaders. A Service of Remembrance in church then closes the commemoration.

GREENWICH FOODBANK
Greenwich Foodbank helps many people in need and our contributions are much appreciated. At present, the organisers are short of tinned fruit and veg, rice and long-life fruit juice. They have plenty of pasta and ask that we please don’t donate baby food. Any items can be left in the basket at the back of church. Thank you!

PANTOMIME

The 2018 pantomime at the Bob Hope Theatre is the traditional tale of Cinderella. Tickets are £10 full price and £8 concessions (under 14 or 60+). We’ve reserved 64 seats for the 2pm matinee on Saturday 20th January and hope you’ll join us for an enjoyable afternoon for the young and not-so-young alike. Please put your name on the list in church, with the number of tickets you require. Payment is due by the end of November. For more information, speak to Patricia Allen or Gill Hayes.

VOLUNTEER FOR THE CHILDREN’S SOCIETY

Mary Roberts is stepping back from the role of parish representative to the Children’s Society, for which St John’s has raised £42,000 since 1984. If you would like to take on this position, or find out more, please speak with Mary or Fr Jim.

AUDREY BULLOCK

Many members of St John’s attended the recent funeral of Audrey Bullock. Audrey’s remains have now been laid to rest at St Katharine’s church at Knockholt in Kent, where her sister Betty is a parishioner.

SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL DIARIES

Small Southwark Cathedral diaries for 2018 are now in. They have a dark red cover, show weeks starting Sunday, and cost £1. Margaret Taylor, who goes to the cathedral regularly, would be happy to pick up diaries at no extra cost. Please speak to Margaret if you would like one.

MARGARET GARDNER

As most of you know, Margaret Gardner, a member of our congregation, sadly died earlier this month. Her funeral will be held at St John’s on Friday 3rd November at 2pm. Please remember Margaret in your prayers.

BOROUGH OF CULTURE BID

There’ll be a public workshop at the Eltham Centre on Wednesday 1st November to discuss Greenwich’s bid to become a ‘London Borough of Culture’. The meeting will run from 5pm to 8pm and is free for all to attend, but spaces are limited so please book ahead: visit www.eventbrite.co.uk and search on Culture Borough. The first London Borough of Culture will be announced in 2018.

END OF BRITISH SUMMER TIME

Remember: the clocks go back by one hour overnight on 28th/29th October!

ALL SOULS, ALL SAINTS AND REMEMBRANCE

There will be a ‘Commemoration of the Faithful Departed’, also known as All Souls, service on Thursday 2nd November at 7pm, when we remember loved ones who have died.  On Sunday 5th November, there’ll be an ‘All Saints’ Parish Eucharist.

On Saturday 11th November – Armistice Day – there’ll be a short act of remembrance at the War Memorial at 10:55am. The following day – Remembrance Sunday – the Bishop of Woolwich, the Rt Revd Dr Karowei Dorgu, will preside at the 10am Parish Eucharist, which will end by 10:45am. The service will be followed by an Act of Remembrance at the War Memorial with the bishop, the mayor of Greenwich, members of the armed forces, the Royal British Legion and other civic leaders. A Service of Remembrance in church will then close the commemoration.

GREENWICH FOODBANK
Greenwich Foodbank helps many people in need and our contributions are much appreciated. At present, the organisers are short of tinned fruit, peas and carrots, as well as rice and long-life fruit juice. They have plenty of pasta, and ask that we please don’t donate baby food. Items can be left in the basket at the back of church. Thanks!

PANTOMIME

The 2018 pantomime at the Bob Hope Theatre is the traditional tale of Cinderella. Tickets are £10 full price and £8 concessions (under 14 or 60+). We’ve reserved 64 seats for the 2pm matinee on Saturday 20th January and hope you’ll join us for an enjoyable afternoon for the young and not-so-young alike. Please put your name on the list in church, with the number of tickets you require. Payment is due by the end of November. For more information, speak to Patricia Allen or Gill Hayes.

VOLUNTEER FOR THE CHILDREN’S SOCIETY

Mary Roberts is stepping back from the role of parish representative to the Children’s Society. St John’s has raised £42,000 for the society since 1984 and is keen to continue its support. If you’d like to take on the role, please speak to Mary or Fr Jim.

AUDREY BULLOCK

Many of you attended the recent funeral of Audrey Bullock. Audrey’s remains have now been laid to rest at St Katharine’s church at Knockholt in Kent, where her sister Betty is a parishioner.

SOUTHWARK DIOCESAN SPIRITUALITY DAY

Tickets for the diocese’s Spirituality Day are selling fast, with more than half now gone. Entitled ‘Going Deeper: Engaging Spirituality for Contemporary Life,’ this event next Saturday at Southwark Cathedral will include worship and workshops, with Revd Dr Andrew Walker from St Marylebone Healing and Counselling Centre as speaker. See the poster on the noticeboard for more details. Please speak to Patricia Allen or Mary Creamer if you plan to attend.

SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL DIARIES

Southwark Cathedral diaries for 2018 are now in. They have a dark red cover, show weeks starting Sunday, and cost £1. Margaret Taylor, who goes to the cathedral regularly, would be happy to pick up diaries at no extra cost. Please speak to Margaret if you would like one.

CONCERT FOR WELCARE

Next Friday, the Ferrier Operatic Society will stage their annual concert in aid of Welcare, our diocesan children’s charity, at St Mary the Virgin Church in Welling. Doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm concert. Tickets cost £10 and include a drink and nibbles. To book, please contact Eileen or Alan Wiltcher on 020 8854 9671.

YEAR’S MIND

We’re revising our Year’s Mind list of those who have died and whom we remember through the year. If the name of someone who you would like to be remembered is already included, please tick the list on the table at the back of church. If they haven’t been remembered before, please enter their name (the one you knew them by) as well as the date and month of their anniversary.

GREENWICH FOODBANK
Greenwich Foodbank helps many people in need and our contributions are much appreciated. At present, the organisers are short of tinned fruit, peas and carrots, as well as rice, custard and long-life fruit juice. They have plenty of beans and pasta, and ask that we please don’t donate baby food. Any items can be left in the basket at the back of church. Thank you!

PANTOMIME

The 2018 pantomime at the Bob Hope Theatre is the traditional tale of Cinderella. Tickets are £10 full price and £8 concessions (under 14 or 60+). We’ve reserved 64 seats for the 2pm matinee on Saturday 20th January and hope you’ll join us for an enjoyable afternoon for the young and not-so-young alike. Please put your name on the list in church, with the number of tickets you require. Payment is due by the end of November. For more information, speak to Patricia Allen or Gill Hayes.

VOLUNTEER FOR THE CHILDREN’S SOCIETY

After more than 40 years as parish representative to the Children’s Society, Mary Roberts is stepping back from the role. St John’s has raised more than £42,000 for the society since 1984 and is keen to continue its support of vulnerable children. If you would like to take on this position – or find out more – please speak with Mary or Fr Jim.

JILL BAYLISS

On 17th October, Jill will be leaving for Sudan, where she’ll live and work on a three-year placement. We wish her well and look forward to her return.

WELCARE MARMALADE

Sybil Bennett has marmalade and jam for sale most Sundays after the Eucharist.

STAY FOR BRUNCH!

After the Harvest Festival Eucharist today, there’ll be a bring-and-share brunch for all. Do stay, even if just for a short while to enjoy food with others in church. Don’t worry if you haven’t brought anything – there’s always more than enough food to go around.

SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL DIARIES

Southwark Cathedral diaries for 2018 are now in. They have a dark red cover, show weeks starting Sunday, and cost £1. Margaret Taylor, who goes to the cathedral regularly, would be happy to pick up diaries at no extra cost. Please speak to Margaret if you would like one.

GREENWICH FOODBANK
Greenwich Foodbank helps many people in need and our contributions are much appreciated. At present, the organisers are short of tinned fruit, peas, carrots, rice, custard and long-life fruit juice. They have plenty of beans and pasta, and ask that we please don’t donate baby food. Items can be left in the basket at the back of church. Thank you!

TEA ROTA

We need another kind person to join the tea rota. It involves making hot drinks after the Sunday Eucharist and then washing up. The current list covers October to March, with each person’s turn coming around roughly every other month. It’s not an arduous task and we’d be grateful for your help! Please see Cindy Shipp or email cynthiashipp32@gmail.com.

SOUTHWARK DIOCESAN SPIRITUALITY DAY

Tickets for the diocese’s Spirituality Day are selling fast, with more than half already gone. Entitled ‘Going Deeper: Engaging Spirituality for Contemporary Life,’ this event on Saturday 21st October at Southwark Cathedral will include worship and workshops, with Revd Dr Andrew Walker from St Marylebone Healing & Counselling Centre as speaker. See the poster on the noticeboard or www.southwarkanglican.org/deepeningdiscipleship for more details. Please speak to Patricia Allen or Mary Creamer if you plan to attend.

MARGARET GARDNER

Sadly, Margaret Gardner, a member of St John’s, died last Sunday. Please remember Margaret in your prayers.

YEAR’S MIND

We’re revising our Year’s Mind list of those who have died and whom we remember through the year. If the name of someone who you would like to be remembered is already included, please tick the list on the table at the back of church. If they haven’t been remembered before, please enter their name (the one you knew them by) as well as the date and month of their anniversary.

JILL BAYLISS

On 17th October, Jill will be leaving for Sudan, where she’ll live and work on a three-year placement. We wish her well and look forward to her return.

PANTOMIME

The 2018 pantomime at the Bob Hope Theatre is the traditional tale of Cinderella. Tickets are £10 full price and £8 concessions (under 14 or 60+). We have reserved 64 seats for the 2pm matinee on Saturday 20th January and hope you will join us for an enjoyable afternoon for the young and not-so-young alike. Please put your name on the list in church as soon as possible, with the number of tickets you require. Payment is due by the end of November. For more information, speak to Patricia Allen or Gill Hayes.

CONCERT FOR WELCARE

On Friday 20th October, the Ferrier Operatic Society will stage their annual concert in aid of Welcare, our diocesan children’s charity, at St Mary the Virgin Church in Welling. Doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm concert. Tickets cost £10 and include a drink and nibbles. To book, please contact Eileen or Alan Wiltcher on 020 8854 9671.

WELCARE MARMALADE

Sybil Bennett has marmalade and jam for sale most Sundays after the Eucharist.

SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL DIARIES

Southwark Cathedral small diaries for 2018 are now in. They have a dark red cover, show weeks starting Sunday, and cost £1. Margaret Taylor, who goes to the cathedral regularly, would be happy to pick up diaries at no extra cost. Please speak to Margaret if you would like one.

YEAR’S MIND

We’re revising our Year’s Mind list of those who have died and whom we remember through the year. If the name of someone who you would like to be remembered is already included, please tick the list on the table at the back of church. If they haven’t been remembered before, please enter their name (the one you knew them by) as well as the date and month of their anniversary.

JOAN CHEESMAN

Many of you already know that Joan Cheesman, a member of St John’s, died on Saturday 9th September. Joan’s funeral will be held in St John’s church on Thursday 5th October at 1.15pm. Please remember Joan in your prayers.

RELIGIOUS ICON PAINTING CLASSES

Anglican priest and artist Regan O’Callaghan is holding icon painting classes in West Hampstead in the next two months. Please see the flyer on the noticeboard for details.

HARVEST FESTIVAL

St John’s will hold a Harvest Festival Eucharist next Sunday. All are invited to bring along donations for the Manna Society, which works with the homeless and others in need in south London. The society is mostly seeking food, but toiletries, clothes and bedding are also welcome – see the poster on the noticeboard for details.

Immediately after the Harvest Festival Eucharist, there will be a bring-and-share brunch for everyone. Please bring along food from your kitchen – at the last count there were 27 nationalities represented at St John’s and it would be wonderful to have contributions from around the world, especially any items that children have prepared at home. Please add any dishes you can bring to the list on the noticeboard.

Do stay after the Eucharist, even if just for a short while to enjoy food with others in church. If you’re unable to bring anything, please stay anyway – there’s always more food than can be eaten. For further information, speak with Gill Hayes or Fr Jim.

HARVEST FESTIVAL FLOWERS

We will be decorating the church on Saturday 7th October in preparation for Harvest Festival. If you would like to help, do come and join us – we’ll start at 10am. Children are also very welcome. Please let Robyn Price know if you’re able to come along.

TEA ROTA

We need another kind person to join the tea rota. It involves making tea and coffee after the Sunday Eucharist and then washing up. The current list covers October to March, with each person’s turn coming around roughly every other month. It’s not an arduous task and we would be very grateful for your help. Please speak with Cindy Shipp at church or email cynthiashipp32@gmail.com. Thank you.

CREATION TIME

From 1st September to 4th October, churches are in Creation Time. This season began with the Ecumenical Patriarch suggesting in 1989 that 1st September, the start of the Orthodox Church’s year, be observed as a day of ‘protection of the natural environment’. The European Christian Environmental Network later widened the idea, urging churches to adopt a Time for Creation from 1st September to the Feast of St Francis on 4th October. This was endorsed by the European Ecumenical Assembly in 2007 as a period ‘dedicated to prayer for the protection of Creation and the promotion of sustainable lifestyles that reverse our contribution to climate change’.

BAPTISM

Today at 12:30pm we’ll baptise into the church Tiago Alexander Pletka and Tia Alexi Pletka. Please pray for Tiago and Tia, their parents and godparents.

PUPPY IN JUNIOR CHURCH

On 1st October, Helen Wiles will bring her puppy to Junior Church as part of the Creation Time theme and in celebration of the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi. If you have any problem with your child meeting a dog please let Helen or Cindy Shipp know.

YEAR’S MIND

We’re revising our Year’s Mind list of those who have died and whom we remember through the year. If the name of someone who you would like to be remembered is already included, please tick the list on the table at the back of church. If they haven’t been remembered before, please enter their name (the one you knew them by) as well as the date and month of their anniversary.

VOLUNTEER FOR THE CHILDREN’S SOCIETY

After more than 40 years as parish representative to the Children’s Society, Mary Roberts is stepping back from the role. St John’s has raised more than £42,000 for the society since 1984 and is keen to continue its support of vulnerable children. If you’d like to take on this position – or find out more – please speak with Mary or Fr Jim.

RELIGIOUS ICON PAINTING CLASSES

Anglican priest and artist Regan O’Callaghan is holding icon painting classes in West Hampstead in the next two months. Please see the flyer on the noticeboard for details.

HARVEST FESTIVAL

St John’s will hold a Harvest Festival Eucharist on Sunday 8th October. All are invited to bring along donations for the Manna Society, which works with the homeless and others in need in south London. The society is mostly seeking food, but toiletries, clothes and bedding are also welcome – see the poster on the noticeboard for details.

Immediately after the Harvest Festival Eucharist, there will be a bring-and-share brunch for everyone. Please bring along food from your kitchen – at the last count there were 27 nationalities represented at St John’s and it would be wonderful to have contributions from around the world, especially any items that children have prepared at home. Please add any dishes you can bring to the list on the noticeboard.

Do stay after the Eucharist, even if just for a short while to enjoy food with others in church. If you’re unable to bring anything, please stay anyway – there’s always more food than can be eaten. For further information, speak with Gill Hayes or Fr Jim.

HARVEST FESTIVAL FLOWERS

We will be decorating the church on Saturday 7th October in preparation for Harvest Festival. If you would like to help, do come and join us – we’ll start at 10am. Children are also very welcome. Please let Robyn Price know if you’re able to come along.

ELTHAM CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL

The new building is complete! The school has increased in size from 1.5-form entry to 2-form entry and now includes a nursery class too. To celebrate the new building and this growth in the school community, the Bishop of Southwark, the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun, will lead a service of thanksgiving and blessing at the school this coming Thursday at 2pm. Please pray for the bishop and all at Eltham C of E.

CREATION TIME

From 1st September to 4th October, churches are in Creation Time. This season began with the Ecumenical Patriarch suggesting in 1989 that 1st September, the start of the Orthodox Church’s year, be observed as a day of ‘protection of the natural environment’. The European Christian Environmental Network later widened the idea, urging churches to adopt a Time for Creation from 1st September to the Feast of St Francis on 4th October. This was endorsed by the European Ecumenical Assembly in 2007 as a period ‘dedicated to prayer for the protection of Creation and the promotion of sustainable lifestyles that reverse our contribution to climate change’.

BAPTISM
Today at 12:45pm we’ll baptise into the church Harriett Rose Young, born on 18th April. Harriett’s parents, Dean and Kirsty, would love people to stay for the baptism and join family and friends afterwards at the Badgers Sports Club on Middle Park Avenue for refreshments. Please pray for Harriett, her parents and godparents.

PUPPY IN JUNIOR CHURCH
On 1st October, Helen Wiles will bring her puppy to Junior Church as part of the Creation Time theme and in celebration of the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi. If you have any problem with your child meeting a dog please let Helen or Cindy Shipp know.

DIOCESAN SPIRITUALITY DAY
Entitled ‘Going Deeper: Engaging Spirituality for Contemporary Life,’ the Diocese of Southwark’s Spirituality Day on Saturday 21st October at Southwark Cathedral will include worship and workshops, with Revd Dr Andrew Walker from St Marylebone Healing & Counselling Centre as guest speaker. For more details, see the poster on the noticeboard. Please speak to Patricia Allen or Mary Creamer if you plan to attend.

WE REMEMBER IN OUR PRAYERS
Joan Cheesman, a member of St John’s, died at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital on Saturday 9th September. Please remember Joan in your prayers. We also continue to pray for the family and friends of Audrey Bullock, whose funeral was last Tuesday.

HARVEST FESTIVAL
St John’s will hold a Harvest Festival Eucharist on Sunday 8th October. All are invited to bring along donations for the Manna Society, which works with homeless people and others in need in south London. The society is mostly seeking food, but toiletries, clothing and bedding are also welcome – please see the poster on the noticeboard for details. The Manna Centre welcomes around 150 people a day, seven days a week, and more than half are homeless. It provides breakfast and a cooked lunch for all.

Immediately after the Harvest Festival Eucharist, there will be a bring-and-share brunch for everyone. Please bring along food from your kitchen – at the last count there were 27 nationalities represented at St John’s and it would be wonderful to have contributions from around the world, especially any items that children have prepared at home. Please add any dishes you can bring to the list on the noticeboard.

Do stay after the Eucharist, even if just for a short while to enjoy food with others in church. If you’re unable to bring anything, please stay anyway – there’s always more food than can be eaten. For further information, speak with Gill Hayes or Fr Jim.

HANDRAIL
We’re delighted to announce that we’ve raised the £6,000 required to build the new handrail on the steps to the main door of the church, thanks to generous donations from the congregation and contributions from church funds. The church architect is liaising with the Diocese of Southwark and the Royal Borough of Greenwich to obtain the permissions required for such work on a listed building. Well done all!

VOLUNTEER FOR THE CHILDREN’S SOCIETY
After more than 40 years as parish representative to the Children’s Society, Mary Roberts is stepping back from the role. St John’s has raised more than £42,000 for the society since 1984, largely through collection boxes, and is keen to continue its support of vulnerable children. If you would like to take on this position – or find out more about it – please speak with Mary or Fr Jim. It’s an easy but important way to raise vital funds to give all children and young people a better chance in life.

RELIGIOUS ICON PAINTING CLASSES
Regan O’Callaghan, an Anglican priest and artist living in London, is holding icon painting classes at Emmanuel Church, West Hampstead, in October and November. Please see the flyer on the noticeboard for details.