may 2016 grapevine the magazine of st mary s church rushden & st peter s newton bromswold

Transcription

1 may 2016 grapevine the magazine of st mary s church rushden & st peter s newton bromswold 1

2 Who s who Rector: Rev Stephen Prior The Rectory, Rectory Road, Rushden, NN10 0HA Associate Minister: Rev Matthew Taylor 36 Meadow Sweet Drive, Rushden NN10 0GA Curate: Natasha Brady 49 Clover Drive, Rushden, NN10 0UE natasha_brady@btinternet.com Readers: Mick Bantin, Ruth Compton, John Dixon, Tony Smith Hall Bookings: Pam & Paul Bailey 7 Kenilworth Close, Rushden, NN10 0QH St Mary s Churchwardens: Lynne Prior, 330 Newton Rd, Rushden, NN10 0SY Martin Cromwell, 9 Pightles Terrace, Rushden NN10 0LN St Mary s Church Office Tues-Thurs: noon: Pam Bailey, Marion Bates, Sue Prior Webmasters: Anthony Sutton and Matthew Taylor stmaryschurchoffice@btinternet.com St Mary s Website: Newton Bromswold Churchwardens Bob Lines, 25 Church Lane, Newton Bromswold, NN10 0SR: Rosemary Gepp, 166 Avenue Rd, Rushden, NN10 0SW Newton Bromswold Website: grapevine subscriptions One year s subscription (10 issues) 5 Postal subscription: 10 Large Print Editions are available in church or may be pre-ordered. All monies to Peter & Barbara Coxon 11 Oakpits Way Rushden NN10 0PP petercoxon11@aol.com Phone: Any changes to order or details of delivery to: The Church Office stmaryschurchoffice@btinternet.com Phone:

3 grapevine may 2016 Items for the June magazine should be sent by Sunday 15 May to Jude Curtis at or Margaret Akroyd, 132 Wymington Road, or left at the back of church clearly marked Grapevine Please include your name and phone number with any submission in case we need to contact you. contents Who s Who 2 Natasha writes about Encounters 4 Margaret s Editorial 6 From the Registers 7 St Mary s News 8 Facebook Screenshot 9 News from Newton 10 A Fitting End 11 Meet the Congregation 12 Briefings 14, 19, 30 Bishop John writes 15 Around the Diocese 16 Mission Matters 20 Bible Bite 21 Looking Back to Old Grapevines 22 Crossword Belfry Gossip 28 Diary 29 Services for May 31 The Back Page 32 3

4 4 Natasha s Encounters Now that the winter months are behind us and April s showers are waning, I think it s about time the Curate began walking in the fresh air a bit more often. I have managed to successfully avoid this pleasurable activity for most of the winter months. Yet as soon as I see the sun shining and the temperature gauge on my car nears double digits, confidence returns and I step out of my front door and walk to Morning Prayer at the Rectory each day. On these morning sojourns, I always meet our local homeless cat a black and white puddy-cat, made plump by middle age and the generous feeding of local residents. They have fed this itinerant moggy since her owner became full of years quite a while ago now. She was re-homed, it is said, a few times, but she refuses to stay and keeps returning regardless of how far she is taken from Rushden. So who are we to deny her, in her autumn years, such a nomadic life? I ve never succumbed to feeding her, but a quick cuddle and a stroke leaves both of us happy. After which guaranteed encounter I carry on with my journey. It s not just cats that I meet on this daily perambulation, there are the same parishioners and residents too, always ready to wave, smile or share a word or two. It s lovely to catch up with people as we go about our daily lives. Knowing that each of us will be content when the usual checklist of known locals are seen and greeted. These not so chance encounters, enabled by lives which brush alongside one another on a regular basis, we begin to form relationships. They give us a sense that we belong to one another and affirm that in this transitory world there are those who would miss us, if we were not there to say, hello, how are you? Or catch up on what s been happening since we last met. And then there are those rare encounters, whose happening can never be predicted, but when they occur remind me of why I have a

5 faith in a God who wants people to look for Him. Some days I feel compelled to walk one route or another, and it is on those days that I usually find God. I find him sitting on a bench strongly urging a stranger to ask for prayer because life that day is just too hard to live alone. Sometimes He is there prompting the person who notices the clerical collar, and sees it as an opportunity to pour out God wanted people to look for Him, and perhaps in searching all around for Him, they would find Him. But He is not far from any of us. Acts (ERV) what is going on in a life good or bad, it doesn't matter. Once, it was just so that I could see an elderly couple. They were walking hand in hand down the road, just ahead of me, looking so in love, and happy like two young sweethearts. It was just what I needed, a warm reminder of the life I have promised to live with Jamie, my husband, and it made me smile as I saw how little their love had diminished over time and how evident it was to all. As I ponder on all these encounters I realise that in each of these different situations there is always, not too far away, that God who is always seeking me and you, catching our attention, by what we see, what we hear and what we experience. My daily encounters enrich and bring me great joy because I know that not far from the people I meet, is the God I love. Rev Natasha Brady Who Let the Girls Out! Saturday May 21 A pub meal at the Bedford Arms, Souldrop at To book or for more information, contact Angela White at the 9.30 service or Rev Natasha Brady at service. 5

6 Did you grow up in a church-going family, and if so, did you have much contact with your godparents? The Archbishops Council believes it is really important to have godparents at the christening service and for them to keep the promises they make that day. My godmother was a maiden aunt who was a hospital matron of the old school and I only saw her twice when aged 7 and 18. I do have a godchild of my own who is very caring and like the daughter I never had. The Bishop of Huntingdon David Thomson writes, I was blessed with three very holy godparents: a monk, a missionary, and a godmother who eventually entered a holy order. Their prayers must have been powerful to enable a crumbly cookie like me to become a bishop! They continue to be an inspiration and my godmother in her 80s rebuilt a hospital in Africa. Sunday May 1 is to be designated as Godparents Sunday, but whether it becomes a regular date in a parish calendar remains to be seen. From figures that are available for 2010 in the UK, 127,000 children were baptised, which works out as 2,200 per week, which looks good to increase the Christian community, but does not actually replace the number of churchgoers who die which is a great sadness. Apparently 7,000 churchgoers die each week and they are not being replaced, especially as there is no guarantee that the newly baptised will grow up to take their place. * We have seen how dangerous it is to attempt missionary work in some countries and those we support at St Mary s are grateful for our interest, prayers and regular contact, but we also need to consider mission closer to home. The Rev Phil Rawlings, interfaith officer in Manchester Diocese, says that a growing number of Muslims are choosing to follow Jesus Christ in the UK today. Joining the Family is a six session course comprising film clips, a participating workbook and facilitators guide and is part of a trio of resources which includes Friendship First and Come Follow Me. A two minute introduction to the course can be viewed on YouTube. Can this be the start of a better relationship between two faiths which seems at times to be so distrusting? Living a Christian life can be demanding but those who like Malcolm Muggeridge, journalist ( ) spend most of their lives denying God, and then within sight of the end become an ardent believer will still be as welcome as the lifelong committed member according to the 6

7 parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20) Before the TV set became a fixture in the home we went to the local cinema to enjoy some form of escapism. In Northampton there were a dozen, some small where the programme changed twice a week (Mon Wed and Thurs Sat) with matinees and continuous shows. You could go at 2.00pm and remain until the last performance ended all on one ticket. Being continuous meant you might see the end of the film and after a trailer, a Pathe News slot and B movie you would settle to watch the main feature. You already knew the end but the plot had to be unfurled and you wished the actors at times made different choices when you didn t get the ending you wished for! As we age, we too have to admit to wrong choices along the way but hopefully when we say the general confession these errors of judgement are forgiven by our loving gracious God. Margaret Akroyd From the Registers Baptism Sunday 20 March Laurel-May Ann Pack Funeral Wednesday 30 March Dale Thomas Wright [30] *Although couples are no longer obliged to go to church to be married is it a kind of insurance for the future to bring a child for baptism? See page 8 of the April magazine for a cartoon on that subject 7

8 St Mary s News This year s St Mary s Church Fete on Saturday June 11 will once again take place in the Church grounds with the intention of celebrating the Queen s Ninetieth Birthday. We would like it to have a 1920s theme. Any suggestions welcome! Contact Martin Compton, Paul Cox or Edna Wadsworth. The Children s Society News On the last Saturday in February a Quiz and Ploughman s Supper was held in St Mary's Church Hall. After the supper Christine Mackenzie had prepared a fun and challenging quiz, which found the teams getting their heads together to meet the challenge. The Dixon Team were the winners and was raised. Our next event is a Coffee Morning on Saturday May 7 in St Mary's Church Hall from noon. Admission is 50p and there will be a variety of stalls. The Ladies Group We shall welcome Mrs Helen Bush to our meeting on Wednesday May 11. She will open up to us her fascination with Hats of the Bible. We also look forward to our Summer Treat at 3, Barnwell Drive on June 8. NB The Garden Fete on Saturday June 11 is when our members are manning a bottle stall. 100 donated items will generate 100. With membership standing at fifty this should not be too difficult achieve! Newly elected Lay Members to the St Mary s PCC following the Annual Meeting on April 5 are Mrs Kate Woodfield Mr Simon Shaw Mr Gerald Bass Mr Alan Howell Mr Thomas Coles There are currently 208 names on the Electoral Roll adopted. St Mary s Flower Rota May Behind the Communion Table 1 Mrs J Tingey 8 Mrs J Tombling 15 Pentecost: Mr & Mrs J Bettles 22 Mrs J Morgan 29 Mr & Mrs R Bates Contact Jean Tombling Memorial Chapel 1 Mr Peter White in memory of Dorothy. 15 Mrs Kelland and Mr Craddick in memory of Mr and Mrs Craddick. If anyone wishes to give flowers in memory of loved ones please contact me, Brenda Dixon

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10 News from Newton Flower Rota May 1 Judith Spencer 8 Mrs Sheldon 15 Nicola Clarke 22 Joyce Asplin 29 Helen Lines Easter The Church was decorated lovely for the Easter Services, which were well attended. Special thanks go to Rev Ron Elverson and Natasha Brady for stepping in at the last minute. Village Fete Our annual Village Fete will be held on July 2 starting at 2.00pm. If you would like to be involved then please speak to Jenny Burt. In celebration of the Queen s 90 th birthday, the theme for the Children s fancy dress will be royalty. Barn Dance Friends of Newton Church will be holding a Barn Dance on 9 July at 7.00pm. Tickets are Adults 10 and Children 5. Cowslip and Fritillary Weekend Just over 800 was raised at the weekend. Congratulations Congratulations to Bill and Anna on their wedding on Saturday 9 April, which was held in the Chapel at Somerville College Oxford. Our organist Simon Sweeney played for the wedding and said the singing was fantastic. Congratulations too to Abigail Clarke who has qualified for the 2016 Laser 4.7 Youth World Championships, which will be held this summer in Kiel in Germany. Pie! Ah! Squared jc Rushden & Newton Bromswold WI Thursday 12 May WI Resolutions debate with fish & chips supper Competition: something amusing! Thurs 9 June Millie Fyfe RABI The National Farmers Charity Competition : A decorated egg and An American Raffle 1.00 All meetings 7.30pm at Rushden Town Bowls Club, Northampton Road, Rushden. NN10 6AN Visitors welcome 3.50 includes refreshments Contact

11 A Fitting End: Rev Rachel Hawkins We may make plans for the future in terms of our finances, health or by making a Last Will & Testament, but have you thought about making any plans for your own funeral? I understand that this is not necessarily an easy thing to talk about, but Natasha and I would like to offer you an opportunity to begin that process with an afternoon seminar about funeral service planning. Why are we offering this opportunity? Well, for many of us, our families/loved ones may not be so comfortable talking about such matters. However, having had a few years experience in helping to plan and conduct funerals, this is something I feel qualified to talk about and something I am comfortable discussing. Furthermore, not only may such planning bring you peace of mind, but it could also be something of a gift to those whom we leave behind; bringing further peace of mind that they have some insights and help with the decisions they will be called to make (whilst grieving). Having some input now into planning for your own funeral, can provide an opportunity to be remembered as you wish to be remembered, and to say a final farewell to your loved ones. So, if you would like to begin to put some thought into planning for your final departure, then come along on Thursday 2 June at 2.30pm to St Peter s, Midland Road, Rushden for a cuppa and to hear some ideas on how to start planning, and begin to explore your wishes This is a FREE ticketed event... please call or speak to me, Rachel, on or Natasha with any questions and to get a ticket. 11

12 Kettering Hospital saw the arrival of Pat on July : first child of Tom and Sarah Whiting of Senwick Road, Wellingborough. Sister Jean followed five years later. Pre-school memories are sketchy for Pat, but she can remember her father shouting, Get under the stairs the Jerrys are coming. Despite the war Pat remembers a very happy childhood with wonderful parents. Attending Victoria Infants and Junior School in Wellingborough, Pat enjoyed gymnastics and dancing. One day they fetched her out of class to settle her little sister who was unhappy because she was supposed to have a sleep each afternoon! At the age of eleven Pat moved on to Park Street Secondary Modern. Her favourite subjects were sewing and domestic science. The school had a flat with two bedrooms and in their last year the girls had to learn to keep house. Each day the staff would strip off bedding and throw it all over the place and pupils would have to transform everywhere to perfection! They also had to cook a meal and invite a teacher! Pat belonged to the Girl Guides and attended Sunday School at All Saints, Wellingborough. At the age of twelve she went to the Nuns House for instruction and was later confirmed at All Saints. She was an irregular churchgoer during her teens. Leaving school at fifteen she went to John White s training school on Skinner s Hill and then worked for several years at John White s factory in Park Place, later moving to Technic where her father worked. A group of girls from work used to go out to Youth Clubs and cinema together. Pat had a Lambretta scooter and belonged to a Scooter Club: they would go on trips to the seaside. Another pleasant pastime was dancing. When Pat was twenty she met Alan at a dance in Kettering and they started going out together. He was in the Raunds Temperance Band and they became engaged in 1963 and were married at All Saints in 1964, followed by a honeymoon in Lowestoft. They then lived in Wymington Road, Rushden almost opposite Peter and Dorothy White. Alan was working as a bricklayer and Pat continued as a shoe worker. Three years later Colin was born and was christened at St Mary s. They then moved to their home in Newton Road, not far from 12 Meet the Congregation Pat Bugby

13 Barrie & Susan Collins. New house - New baby they say: daughter Linda was born in 1970 and all the family started coming to St Mary s regularly, attending the Family Service. Alan loved gardening and grew all their food as well as keeping chickens and ducks they were very well-fed! They used to take some of the animals down to the church for the nursery to see. They were also Home Group Leaders and Alan ran an orchestra at family service once a month to encourage the youngsters to play. Colin and Linda grew up, left home and married and Pat is now blessed with two grandchildren. Alan became very ill when he was 64. Pat nursed him for five years until he passed away in The time that followed was difficult as Pat learned to adjust. She moved into a lovely bungalow just near the border with Higham, joined St Mary s choir and later took up line dancing, walking, The St Cecilia Singers, bowling and is part of the U3A History Group, plus Wine & Dine. At St Mary s she belongs to Sue Eagles Home Group, the Ladies Group and feels St Mary s is her spiritual home. Roving Reporter Those questions Who s been the biggest influence on your life? My loving parents What are your hobbies? Walking, dancing, 2 choirs. Digital photography, Wine & Dine, Knit & Natter Special Guest to dinner? The Queen What would you serve? Sunday roast & apple crumble A special treat? Holidays Your favourite place? Canada & Austria Proudest Moments Having my children, and then the arrival of grandchildren Aim To live as the Lord would wish in peace, harmony and love for each other 13

14 UK s Christians keep faith just not in church The UK s Christian community may be larger than is suggested by rapidly declining Sunday service attendances, according to a new book which highlights the emerging phenomenon of churchless faith. Modern Christians are increasingly turning to the internet and other less formal surroundings to practise their beliefs, while around two thirds of those who stop attending church maintain a strong personal faith afterwards, the research found. The Church of Scotland, which commissioned the study, said the findings challenged the assumption that falling attendances across the UK are synonymous with the rise of secularism. Christianity in Britain is in transition, rather than decline it added. The findings are presented in a new book The Invisible Church. Its author, Dr Steven Aisthorpe, surveyed almost 1300 Scottish Christians who 14 You might like to know... b r i e f i n g did not go to church and found that the majority had found a different way to worship. Chris Green i newspaper 23 March 2016 [Any Home Groups still following the Lyfe course could discuss this with WordLyfe 4 on Ephesians ] Watery grave for bike and bottles The average British canal lock contains a bicycle, a shopping trolley, a traffic cone, 67 glass bottles and four tyres, a survey found. The Canal & River Trust spends 1m a year cleaning the nation s waterways. I m constantly surprised by what people throw in, said Peter Birch from the charity. i newspaper 25 March 2016 Tribute to Asad Shah Muslim shopkeeper, Asad Shah, died after he was attacked, apparently by another Muslim, outside his store in Glasgow in March. His family said of him: He recognised that the differences between people are vastly outweighed by our similarities He lived it each and every day. i newspaper 31 March 2016

15 Rt Revd John Holbrook, Bishop of Brixworth writes Shaped by God A s I write I m looking forward to returning full-time to Peterborough diocese after nine months of serving as acting diocesan Bishop of Leicester. This secondment has only been possible because of the quality and generosity of my colleagues who have been working extra to cover my absence. It s good to have an opportunity to say a heartfelt Thank You. In particular, this experience has deepened my appreciation of Bishop Donald s leadership of our diocese. One of the highlights of my Leicester time (apart from the success of Leicester City who are almost as good as Northampton Town!) was being asked to consecrate St Guthlac s Church on Holbrook Road! St Guthlac was a Saxon Christian who founded a religious community (Crowland Abbey) just north of Peterborough about 1300 years ago. The consecration of a Church and the launching of a new parish are very rare and special events. It was a great privilege to be involved and they were amused at having found a Bishop Holbrook* to perform the ceremony. In marking the Church entrance with the Greek letters Alpha and Omega (signs of Jesus the beginning and the end) I was very conscious of sharing in an exciting new beginning for that congregation which has so many great plans and ideas. * The church is located on Holbrook Road For the past year I have lived and worked with the Leicester diocesan vision called Shaped by God. It has helped St Guthlac s to clarify their mission and might help us to think about our calling; Shaped by God in our lives and communities we seek the growth of His kingdom in: The depth of discipleship The number of disciples of Jesus Loving service of the world. With my prayers and best wishes, Diocese of Peterborough - Magazine Resource - May 2016 Produced by the Diocesan Office, The Palace, Peterborough PE1 1YB

16 Revd Rachel Hethington and St David s Community Cafe volunteers Government s English Churches and Cathedrals Sustainability Review welcomed by Church of England The Church of England welcomes the Chancellor s announcement of an English Churches and Cathedrals Sustainability Review which is the first time Government has brought together experts to consider the future of England s magnificent church heritage. The Church of England is the largest steward of England s built heritage through its network of 16,000 parish churches. Among these are 45% of England s grade I listed buildings, showing just how special these buildings are. Sally van der Sterren, DAC Secretary of Peterborough Diocese said: As our churches look at new ways to engage further with the wider community, develop their mission and formulate strategies to sustain their buildings, this national focus on the pertinent issues is very much welcomed. The Church has always appreciated that the value of these buildings goes beyond the ways they tell our shared history they are also crucial to the present and future of local communities. The Bishop of Worcester and lead bishop for church buildings, the Rt Revd Dr John Inge, said: Churches offer space for prayer, worship and the bringing together of community, everywhere from inner cities to country villages. They are the jewel in the crown of our built heritage and immensely important community hubs. The Review Group s remit to look at new 16 models of financing repairs and maintenance of churches and cathedrals, as well as increasing community use, supports the Church of England s own aims. That the Government taking responsibility in this area is very encouraging. Many churches have already adopted innovative ideas and creative solutions in order to enhance sustainability and build links with local communities. St David s Church at Northampton recently opened St David s Café, a community café and lunch club for seniors, St Andrew s church is also Kettering Arts Centre, a venue for music, theatre and comedy events. In neither of these places does the provision of community spaces or the running of events conflict with the underlying mission of the church. Instead the combination of functions is seen as an important and entirely appropriate response to the needs of local communities, bringing people in to church. Not every church can re-invent itself as dramatically, and the Review Group will look particularly hard at rural churches where the challenges of population change may well present specific issues. Innovations such as the Churches Conservation Trust s champing (church camping) and the Church of England s own Virtuous Circles project, currently in development phase, to allow rural churches to be used by walkers for overnight stays, will be part of the picture.

17 The Queen says she is very grateful for the nation s prayers I n a strong statement of faith, the Queen has said that she is very grateful to the nation for its prayers for her and that she has felt God s faithfulness during 64 years on the throne. The comments rare insights into the Queen s personal thoughts and Christian faith came in the forward to a new book, The Servant Queen and the King She Serves, published by Bible Society, HOPE and LICC. Her Majesty said, I have been and remain very grateful to you for your prayers and to God for his steadfast love. I have indeed seen his faithfulness. The book was published to mark the Queen s 90th birthday in April. In her comments, the Queen referred to the changes she has seen in her life, which has made her the longestreigning monarch in British history. The extent and pace of change has been truly remarkable, she said. We have witnessed triumphs and tragedies. And she alluded to the current problems in the Middle East saying that the world is now experiencing terrible suffering on an unprecedented scale. The Queen s Christian faith is well-known. In recent years, Her Majesty has referred to her beliefs in public statements, including Christmas broadcasts. The book highlights the Queen s faith and how it has shaped her personal life and service to the nation. A 12-page schools version has been published by Scripture Union. Use the book as part of your celebration. The Bible Society, HOPE, LICC and Scripture Union are encouraging churches to bring communities together to celebrate the Queen s 90th birthday with Thanksgiving services and street parties on Sunday 12 June giving the book away as a gift to party guests. Copies of The Servant Queen and the King She Serves are available in packs of 10 at 1 a copy (plus p&p). Visit thequeen to order copies and for ideas on how to hold a street party and Thanksgiving service. 17

18 Richard Beadon Second Annual Lecture given by Obi Abuchi T he lecture is hosted by Bishop John with The Guild of Centurions and is of special interest to Licensed Lay Ministers, Church Wardens and laity. Clergy very welcome. Richard Beadon was a solicitor, lay reader and a member of the Guild of Centurions, a group who freely offer business, professional and practical support to our clergy, diocesan officer and parishes. We are pleased that a bequest from his estate to the Centurions enables us to further this work of Outreach Mission and networking with the second of an annual series of lectures. The speaker, Obi Abuchi, is a consultant with private and public sector organisations and is passionate about helping Christians to discover their unique talents and gifts and to express those talents fully in their everyday lives. In addition to consulting for organisations in the areas of organisational development, leadership development, employee engagement, and talent development, Obi speaks on topics including personal leadership and inspiring the next generation. Admission to the lecture, drinks and canapés are free of charge. Please advise names to Cheryl.cfgbusiness@googl .com or The lecture will be at Northampton High School, Newport Pagnell Road, Hardingstone, Northampton NN4 6UU Saturday 2 July pm. Doors open at 1:30. Thurs, 5 Worship, Prayer, Spirituality from the Discipleship Menu pm. At Ketton, oneoff cost 10 registration fee. More info or liz.holdsworth@peterboroughdiocese.org.uk Fri 6, Katherine of Aragon: The True Queen, an illustrated talk by Alison Weir 7.30pm. At Peterborough Cathedral PE1 1XS. 11 ( 5.50 U18s) including a glass of wine or a soft drink after the talk. More info or Sat 7, STARBURST am- 4pm. Please bring some lunch. Drinks will be provided. All Saints' Primary School, NN2 7AJ per person under 18's attend free. More info or to book a place 18 May events bookings@peterboroughdiocese.org.uk Tue,10, Creative Writing Workshop part of the Diocesan Discipleship Menu. 7.30pm St Peter's, Weston Favell, NN3 3JX. For more info, or to book a place: bookings@peterboroughdiocese.org.uk Sat, 21 Music in Lyddington 7.30pm. Lyddington, St Andrew Prepaid Tickets 16, on the door (if available) 18, Students 3. More info or mil-tickets@outlook.com. More details at: -diocese.org.uk/events

19 You might like to know about It takes two: building a lasting marriage together an evening event organised by Café for the Family at Park Inn, Silver Street, Northampton on Tuesday 10 May, 7.30 to 10pm. More details and tickets are available on or at ittakestwo. For Starters: a gathering of people who start things Are you a pioneer, an entrepreneur or a starter of new projects? Do you want to reach those who don t connect with church? You are invited to a gathering of like-minded people to hear about exciting future plans. This is an informal and free event organised by Peterborough Diocese from 10am to 12.30pm on Saturday 21 May at the Kairos Centre, Grange Park, Northampton, NN4 5DW. To book a place, please charlie.nobbs@peterborough diocese.org.uk, ring Lesley on or register at Pioneer New Initiatives on Facebook. European Union in or out? There is no single Christian view on whether this country should be part of the European Union, but many Christians are thinking deeply about the subject in advance of the forthcoming referendum on Thursday 23 June. An article looking at the issues from a politically neutral but clearly Christian perspective has recently been published on the Jubilee Centre s blog at Analysis suggests biblical texts are older than we thought Israeli experts have analysed letters inscribed on pottery [called ostraca] using multispectral imaging and a computer algorithm to analyse the writing. Results suggest that Old Testament books, including Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges and Kings, are both the oldest parts of the Bible and written before the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar in 586BC. i newspaper 13 April 2016 Ascension Day this year falls on Thursday May 5 and there will be a joint service of Holy Communion at 7.30pm at St Peter s Church, Midland Rd. 19

20 Recent news from CMS Mission Partners Derek and Jane Waller Derek and Jane send greetings from a very hot Yei in South Sudan where their students have returned after a short break for Easter for the last four weeks of the semester. Yei remains peaceful but there is growing insecurity on the roads. The Yei to Juba road has experienced incidents for the last year. Recently there was a robbery on the road to Uganda via Kaya (SE of Yei). They had been invited to one of their student s churches twelve miles in the Congo direction (SW) for Easter Sunday but Bishop Hilary advised them not to go. Some guns were stolen near Morobo on the Kaya road. Until it is known in whose hands the guns are, Bishop Hilary does not want them to leave Yei. The South Sudanese pound continues to fall in value, half the value against the US dollar now than it had in January. Local people are finding it very difficult with escalating prices. This is giving rise to opportunistic thefts and robberies. However it is not known whether there are organised groups operating in the Yei district as well. The lack of progress in the peace process may be creating a vacuum leading to a rise in the instability. Derek and Jane are asking for prayers for people travelling and for South Sudan as a nation. Mid-Northants CMS are organising a cream tea at St Katherine s, Irchester, on Thursday June 16 from 2.30 to The speaker will be Katie Jenkins. This year s quiz evening will be on Saturday 1 October. Peter Chamberlain Tearfund Lent Appeal The total received so far from the jam jars for this year s Lent appeal is Mission Matters

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22 22 Looking Back at St Mary s Magazines 50 Years Ago May 1966 The Rector s Report [Rev Derek Elliott] could be divided on a time basis past, present and future. Past mainly thanks to his colleagues and all who have worked for the good of the church. Present despite good congregations and a concern for the fabric of the church, there is a degree of apathy, and a lack of spirituality among the many members. Many gave not enough thought to needs outside the parish. Future- there are many challenges financially, materially and particularly spiritually. He continued that unless we experienced a revival of true spiritual life we should never make any lasting impact in Rushden for the Kingdom of God. This account is necessarily condensed come next year and hear for yourself. DBC (PCC Sec) PS Welcome back to the Rev Roger Castle. There is no truth in the rumour that his stipend is to be reduced because there is less of him! 25 Years Ago May 1991 Congratulations to Kath Whitworth, who will be 90 years young on Tuesday 7 th May. Surely she must hold some sort of record, having regularly worshipped at St Mary s since she was 5 years old, when Archdeacon Kitchen was the Rector. She was taken by her grandmother to the 11 o clock service and remembers the church being very full and the ladies wearing big bonnets with large bows tied under the chin. Before the sermon she was usually given a sweet by two ladies who always sat in the pew behind her. She became a Sunday School teacher at Newton Road School, and from there they would march to church for the 11am service and sit in what is now the choir vestry. They could observe the gentry take their place in the pews, having probably arrived at the church in a pony and trap. Mrs Whitworth then taught again at the Sunday School in the afternoon! Many of our congregation will remember Mrs Ivy Hutchinson, who often refers to the fact that Mrs Whitworth had been her Sunday School teacher. Maybe we could look forward to more of her reminiscences in some future magazine. I am sure she gives thanks to the Lord that she is still able to come along to a service each week and testify to her life-long faith.

23 76 High St Rushden Stitches Alterations Mon-Fri: Closed Thurs & Sun Sat: for all your tailoring needs Monthly event for dads, stepdads, granddads or male carers and their younger children [0-6 yrs] with the added bonus of good coffee and a breakfast bap! Saturday 21 May noon St Mary s Church Hall Adults 3: children free Just turn up! Flowers for because style is always in bloom info@inbloombiz.co.uk Net Affair Home Furnishings clothing alterations 12D, High St, RUSHDEN Flowers for all occasions 37A High St Rushden

24 A. ABBOTT & SONS PERSONAL FUNERAL DIRECTORS BEDFORD ROAD, RUSHDEN Owned and operated by the Abbott family for four generations Tel: Rushden HOUR SERVICE TO ALL AREAS Private Chapel of rest, Service Chapel, Catering suite, Memorial display, Floral tributes Pre-paid plans available Est CELEBRATION OF LIFE CAKES FROM THE HEART Making Memories Special Celebrate the life of your loved one, rather than mourning their passing Brian Howard Mobile: Phone: Carpet Cleaning Window Cleaning Gutter Cleaning Conservatory Cleaning Solar Panel Cleaning Fascia Cleaning 64 Roman Way Higham Ferrers NN10 8NS GLENEAGLES PROPERTY MAINTENANCE For all your internal property maintenance requirements New Bathrooms/Kitchens Plumbing/Blocked drains Tiling, Decking Carpentry & Joinery Small plastering jobs and more! Call James on or Quality & value guaranteed Customer testimonials available RUSHDEN SCHOOL OF MOTORING Tel: Hall Avenue, Rushden, NN10 9ET Practical and theory tuition in manual and automatic cars Probably Rushden s oldest established driving school: Hadley Woodland Management hedge trimming pruning - tree removal seasoned woodland logs hedge & tree planting small woodland management & conservation 5 million public liability insurance Rushden based John Hadley tel: jjhadley@tiscali.co.uk 24

25 Crossword No 326 ACROSS 1 of our God and King, (hymn) (3,9) 8 Energy (3) 10 Mutual agreements (9) 11 Green prefix (3) 12 Disciple probably Bartholomew (9) 13 Firearm (3) 14 Peruvian Indian (4) 15 Norse god (4) 19 Numbers (3) 20 Braying (9) 21 Expressions of surprise (3) 24 Make a lot of trouble (5,4) 25 Bark (3) 26 He became St. Paul (4,2,6) DOWN 1 Festival before Pentecost (9,3) 2 3rd OT book (9) 3 Unwary (anag.) (6) 4 Yearly (6) 5 Andress, actress (6) 6 First lady (3) 7 So (3) 9 When the skies, (hymn) (7,5) 13 Piety (9) 16 Of a choir (6) 17 Faith (6) 18 Photo-taker (6) 22 Possesses (3) 23 Health resort (3) Solution to Crossword No

26 A & J COULSON Plumbing, Heating & Gas Engineers Boiler Servicing Bathrooms & Showers T: M: or E: coulson166@btinternet.com Established 1966 LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY There are any number of reasons why you may need someone to make decisions on your behalf Having an LPA in place will keep you in control of your affairs Please contact Stephen Wilkins of LPS on or for a free discussion of your needs Avenue Salon Abby Stannard Ladies Hairdresser with over 14 years experience Reductions for seniors Mondays & Tuesdays 166 Avenue Road, Rushden, NN10 0SW P. G. SAVAGE PAPERHANGING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING FREE Estimates & Advice Given Reliable Service , Wymington Rd, Rushden, Northants 2 HIGHAM RD, RUSHDEN phone PAINTERS & DECORATORS WITH OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE CARPETS FURNITURE BEDS Barry Miller GENTLEMEN S HAIR STYLIST 40-42, HIGH STREET SOUTH RUSHDEN 6 FULL TIME STYLISTS Walk in or for appointments ring PARKING OPPOSITE Is your garden getting too much for you? Don't panic! Help is at hand. Ring Cloisters Garden and Homes on we pride ourselves on being prompt, reliable, trustworthy and polite NOW INCLUDING CARPENTRY & DECORATING free advice * fully insured KHM Electricals Domestic & Commercial Electrician Inspection & Testing. PAT testing. Rewiring. Landlord Certificates. Free Quotes. 24hr call out. No job too small. Keith Morgan 21 Chapel Close Rushden tel: info@khmelectricals.co.uk 26

27 Cards Galore Wide Selection of Quality Cards at Reasonable Prices Gift Wrap & Stationery Foil & Latex Balloons Ian & Valerie Nicholls 71 High Street Rushden NN10 0QE tel: P. W. HOUSE 54, High Street, Rushden Rushden s Family Jeweller For over 60 years Tel: PETER TOMAS Comprehensive Glazing Service Boarding Up & Property Secured Property Maintenance Garage Doors Installed Tel: PETER DRAPER Photographic CAMERAS FILM PROCESSING BINOCULARS TELESCOPES 65, High St, RUSHDEN The Distinctive Jeweller J B NOBLE OPTICIANS Est Affordable Family Eye Care Celebrating 50 years in our community 37 Church Street Rushden Discover your Family Tree Ever wondered who your ancestors are? Get a family history report and family tree prepared by an experienced researcher. Great gift idea! Contact Steve Hamilton or rootsdiscovered@gmail.com R J Smith & Son Shoe Repairs Engraving Gifts Locksmiths Watch Straps & Batteries 4 Hamblin Court Rushden NN10 0RU Tel: Hollis Brothers High class butchers 44 Duck St. Rushden Friendly, personal service Barnes Tree Services All types of tree work undertaken

28 Belfry Gossip The lead up to Easter was marked with a quarter peal on Palm Sunday, which also happened to be the 1,600 th quarter peal to be rung in the tower since the augmentation to eight bells in Everyone in the town was also reminded of the Easter period when on Good Friday we rang while the March of Witness was underway in the High Street. This was followed on Easter Day with the joyful sound of the bells being rung, fully open, for the joint morning service and later with a quarter peal for the evening Easter Praise. In addition Simon found a very different length (1269 changes) for a quarter peal on the following Sunday - this was an enjoyable experience for us all. As we often have an Irchester ringer joining us on many Sundays, when they wanted to ring a celebration quarter peal for the eightieth birthday of their Tower Captain some of us were asked to help out. This we joyfully did and following a couple of false starts a successful quarter peal was rung. This was followed by tea and cakes: congratulations to Ivor Dickin. During the last month the Wellingborough Branch has held ringing practices at Ecton (6 bells) and at Earls Barton (8). Both were well attended. This was a test for some ringers because the entrance to Earls Barton ringing room is via a very long ladder which also has a bend at the top: not for the faint-hearted. Everyone had the opportunity to try different methods and most were successful, so happiness, as well as the sound of the bells, filled the air. The Peterborough Guild held its sponsored walk and cycle ride around Rutland Water on the Saturday before Easter. The cyclists route was all the way around the shore-line, including the peninsular, while the route for the walkers started from Manton, then across the fields through Gunthorpe into Brooke for a few minutes rest in the church. After this it was up the hill to gain the ridge, where the strong winds and a rain shower made it unpleasant for a short time, then we continued through the site of the medieval village of Martinsthorpe back to Manton for a well-deserved rest. Unfortunately the numbers were down again this year but those who did attend enjoyed the challenge and helped raise something for the Bell Fund. By the time you are reading this the branch will have held a 'young ringers' afternoon at Yardley Hastings which will aim especially to help younger ringers in the branch to progress. Also we, as a tower, will have entered a band into the Guild 6-bell striking competition which will be held at Seaton in Rutland. Tintinnabulum 28

29 Diary May 4 Wednesday pm: Fun, Faith and Food, St Mary s Hall & Church 7 Saturday noon: Children s Society Coffee Morning St Mary s Church Hall. 50p entrance a variety of stalls 11 Wednesday 2.15pm: St Mary s Ladies Group, Mrs Helen Bush: Hats of the Bible, St Mary s Church Hall 14 Saturday: Parish Away Day pm: Rock UK Frontier Centre. Cost is 7 for adults inc lunch. The theme is The Next Level Scripture, Prayer and Fasting. Forms are available at the back of church but do return them SOON! Free facilities provided for children. 21 Saturday : Who Let the Dads Out? St Mary s Church Hall 21 Saturday 7.30pm: Who Let the Girls Out? Pub meal at the Bedford Arms, Souldrop. see p5 28 Saturday: Senior Citizens Lunch St Mary s Church Hall June 1 Wednesday pm: Fun, Faith and Food, St Mary s Hall & Church 8 Wednesday 2.15pm: St Mary s Ladies Group, Summer Treat at 3 Barnwell Drive 11 Saturday: St Mary s Church Fete St Mary's Churchyard, Church & Hall starting at 2.00pm and celebrating the Queen s 90th Birthday with a 1920s Theme 16 Thursday pm: Cream Tea Mid-Northants CMS, St Katherine s Irchester with speaker Katie Jenkins. 18 Saturday : Who Let the Dad s Out? St Mary s Church Hall 18 Saturday: Friends of St Mary s Tea / Concert July 2 Saturday 2.00pm Newton Bromswold Village Fete [see p10] 2 Saturday 7.30pm: St Cecilia Singers Concert Songs of the British Isles. FREE concert at Park Rd Baptist Church as part of Rushden Party Week 6 Wednesday pm: Fun, Faith and Food, St Mary s Hall & Church 9 Saturday: Newton Bromswold Barn Dance [see p10] 13 Wednesday 2.15pm: St Mary s Ladies Group, Michael Rine: Think of those denied the privilege, St Mary s Church Hall 16 Saturday : Who Let the Dad s Out? St Mary s Church Hall 29

30 This month s prayer is from Embrace the Middle East. Embrace was known as Bible Lands for many years and we have all probably used the carol sheets they produce, free of charge, for Christmas services. Their emphasis has been updated for today s world and they work in partnership with Christians in Palestine, Lebanon, Syria and Egypt who tackle poverty and injustice through social action. More information is available at Equipping young Minds Please pray for young people growing up in the Gaza Strip. Despite having one of the youngest populations in the world, the Gaza Strip offers few opportunities for sports and leisure. Our partners at Gaza YMCA aim to improve the physical and mental health of young people by providing sports facilities [including Gaza s only women s basketball club] and leadership training, reaching a total of 1,000 young people. Grapevine reader Pete Coxon thinks Grapevine is showing a far too serious tendency recently and has asked for the inclusion of some humour. Instead we feature our 30 Lightness favourite old chestnuts, long overdue for the perusal of newcomers to the magazine which he happened to have to hand. Ladies, don t forget the rummage sale. It s a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands. Next Thursday there will be try outs for the choir. They need all the help they can get. Choral singing boosts health! Singing in a choir may be just what the doctor ordered for cancer patients, scientists have found. One hour of choral singing boosts levels of immune proteins, reduces stress and improves people s mood. These are the results of research conducted by charity Tenovus Cancer Care. 193 members of five choirs were tested for levels of the stress hormone cortisol and cytokines immune system signalling molecules that boost the body s ability to fight serious illness. i newspaper 6 April 2016 NB St Mary s Choir is always happy to welcome newcomers [talk to Rosemary Nayyar] and see April Grapevine p14 for an invitation to join local choir, St Cecilia Singers. Ed

31 Services for May 2016 St Peter s Newton Bromswold 1 May Sixth Sunday of Easter 9.30am 11.15am 6.00pm All Age Holy Communion Morning Prayer Evening Worship 10.0am Family Service 8 May Sunday after Ascension 9.30am 11.15am 6.00pm All Age Service Holy Communion [CW] Evening Prayer 10.00am 3.00pm Pete s Pack Evening Prayer 15 May Pentecost 9.30am 11.15am 6.00pm All Age Parade Service Morning Prayer Holy Communion 10.00am Family Communion 9.30am 11.15am 6.00pm 22 May Trinity Sunday All Age Service Morning Prayer Ecumenical Park Road Baptist Church 10.00am 3.00pm 29 May First Sunday after Trinity Pete s Pack Holy Communion 9.30am 11.15am 6.00pm All Age Service Morning Prayer Evening Prayer 10.00am 3.00pm Pete s Pack Evening Prayer St Mary s Mondays 10.00am Bumps & Church - every week in term time Wednesday pm Fun, Faith and Food first Wed of the month: Thursdays 10.30am Holy Communion [BCP] - every week 31

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