A full colour edition of this and previous magazines can be found at www.issuu.com and search for winbap.

This month our online readers will be serenaded by the very talented Matt Issaac with his own composition ‘Neon-Moonrise’.

The final submission date for the May/June edition will be the 14th of April. Thank you to everyone who has submitted items so far - without you there would be no magazine!

Keep your eyes peeled for what we hope will be an eggciting Easter edition...

FEATURES

REGULARS

Meet the Students

Carolyn’s Kitchen

Lost the Plot

REVIEWS

From the library

Wayne’s World

Winchester Street Pastors

Are you ‘SAD’?

Some sabbatical thoughts...

Real life in the fast lane.

The Bible in a Year...what you said

A Day in the Life of a Work From Home Mom

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From the Editor

When we first arrived on your beautiful shores seven years ago, I was reliably informed that the English calendar went like this: December, January, Misery, March...

This sentiment in February seems true for most people I have met. The skies seem grey without and transfers the colour within, there is nothing to seemingly show any signs that this month will draw to a close and that nature’s sentinels will once again announce the incoming breath of Spring...but maybe its just where we choose to turn our gaze?

Maybe joy sits like a jewel unseen, unpocketed and in vast quantity all around us...all we have to do is know what it looks and feels like. Maybe the richness of life is found in the small things far more readily than waiting for those momentous occasions or the long anticipated end of hardship.

So we invite you to lightly explore ‘Joie de Vivre’ - the Joy of Living. One scholar has described this as the joy of conversation, of eating, of having a coffee with someone or on your own - the joy of everything...a philosophy of life...

We hope you enjoy this edition - that it gives you cause to laugh out loud, ponder new opportunities, be thankful for what is around you and allow the sunshine that sits above the clouds to pierce the grey days, so you can be dazzled by the sparkle of the ‘jewels’ that have been left just for you...

Melissa

“A big thank you to al l the members of the Favour C luster who contributed to the Christmas hampers. We were able to deliver them to eight individuals whom we had helped during the course of 2011, as wel l as passing on some of the goodies to the Nightshelter. From the responses we have had, we know that they were greatly appreciated. A fantastic effort from you al l. Thank you again.”Catherine

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” Helen Keller

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Joanne

2011 has been an interesting year. I have been present at several weddings, one birth and one death. They involved two close friends, a brother, my daughter and a complete stranger, and I have spent much time reflecting on whom we share our lives with.

In the Old Testament there are a number of words which carry a similar meaning to our word family, but depending on the context can cover a range of meanings - bayit (house), bêt ‘āb(fathers house),

mišpāhâ (clan). The idea which has interested me most is that of ‘house’ or ‘household’, not simply the nuclear or extended family, but also employee, friends and even associates who came under the householder’s protection and concern. It is often this term which is used to describe the Nation or House of Israel, the Family of God, set apart to be a light to the nations.

One of the issues I had in the first years after becoming a Christian at fourteen, was that God didn’t hug me, couldn’t, but over subsequent years I learnt a great lesson. Most clearly the night my Nan died and a Christian friend hugged me. They don’t know it but that night I was hugged by Jesus, in them. The lesson I learnt was that God uses us, Holy Spirit in us, meets the needs of others. I was reminded of this recently when a friend came round. They were very upset and crying and, Isla (my 9 month old daughter) watched the situation trying to take it in. In the end her little face crumpled and she joined in the tears. Her natural response was ‘to cry with those who cry’ and is invariably ‘to laugh with those who laugh’.

Families are messy and issues we face in life are complex and can rarely be solved with a hug or a tear, but having people around us who meet us and accept us at that point of most basic need is crucial. Being willing to open ourselves to meet someone where they really are, can be the challenge. Psalm 68 has the phrase ‘God places the lonely in families’. It comes after the declaration that He, God, is ‘Father to the fatherless, defender of widows’. Those vulnerable people are protected and cared for by other PEOPLE working in conjunction with God.

And so my thought for 2012 is, how wide is my vision of the household God has placed me in and how am I prepared to see it expand.

May God Bless you and your household richly as you partner with Him being family this year.

Ephesians 3: 14-19

...I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Children are great. They view the world through a completely different lens. They have so much faith and are constantly amazed by even the simplest of things in life. One of the things that I’ve been challenged by is the fact that God calls us to be like these very children. It’s a hard concept to understand sometimes. Does it mean we become immature? Does it mean we stop trying to stand strong? Recently, I’ve really been pressing into my Bible, trying to work out what the true message of the gospel is and what stuff have we made up. This has been amazing and has led to a series of blogs about Jesus being enough for us. But it was as I was reflecting one day I became stuck in my thoughts. As I battled with big questions, my thoughts were lost in the complexities of life. I felt like I wasn’t going anywhere. But it was here that I was reminded of Matthew 19:14 “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” I was then later reminded of Matthew 18:2-4 “He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said “I tell you

the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” That’s a pretty big statement. Unless we humble ourselves and become like little children we will never enter the kingdom of God. It was here that I was once again reminded that the journey with God isn’t wholly about growing in knowledge and wisdom, but it’s about being a child of God. “It’s about being joyful in everything we do, once again discovering how amazing the things around us are.” I can get too bogged down in knowing everything that I can feel silly at getting excited about a perfect sunrise. I once again realised that I have so much to learn and that we need to learn to be God’s children. God also showed me what this meant whilst working at a till in a local supermarket. A child had fallen over and was crying. The first thing they did was to get up and

run straight to their mum and hug her tight. Apart from being a cliché scene where an obvious reaction of “Aww that’s cute” comes to the mind of many, I was profoundly inspired by the way a child reacts. In a culture where self reliance is praised I think we often try and solve problems by ourselves. But if we are called to be ‘Children of God’ then surely the place to run to is the arms of our loving perfect father. Is God your perfect father? I know that can be a painful thing for some people. For some of us that word has become negative and we shy away from the thought. But if we read our Bibles we see a God who is our perfect parent. Maybe it might be helpful to pray, “Lord help me to be a child of you, to rely on you, to be humble like a child, to live life with the faith and joy of a child. Help me to see you as not just my God, sovereign over all, but as my perfect Father, someone who cares deeply about me and who loves to love me. Amen” Like all things, it’s a journey. But just knowing that God is my father and I’m his child fills me with such joy. 3

I understand you were a driving force for bringing Street Pastors to Winchester. Why did you feel that a city such as Winchester would benefit from having an organisation such as Street Pastors?

I had heard so many good things about S’Pastors that I knew Winchester was missing out! From a police point of view, I had heard many positive comments on how well S’Pastors worked in other areas. I was also aware of independent assessments from bodies such as Primary Health Care Trusts which were extremely positive. These studies attributed some of the significant decline in crime and disorder to the S’P schemes. As a Christian at my Church, I had also seen and heard S’Pastors talking about their own experiences and seeing how God really used them in so many different ways. I also regularly heard stories from my mum, who at 73 proves that age is no barrier in leading a Team of highly effective S’Pastors in Salisbury!

Being a Street Pastor myself, I’ve often heard that really the night life in Winchester is very mild compared to most other places and that initially there was a scepticism

about the benefits of Street Pastors operating within the city. How would you respond to that from a Police point of view?

Having spent quite a bit of my 22 years Police Service in the Southampton area, I can confirm that Winchester’s Night Time Economy (NTE) is very different to that of the busier areas such as Southampton and Portsmouth. It is quieter and thankfully Winchester is a very safe place to be. However, when people come out of the pubs and clubs in Winchester, they are often in a similar state to those coming out of clubs in other busier areas. Sometimes they are very vulnerable and this is where the S’Pastors can play a very valuable role.One should also note that S’Pastors are there to deal with a wide range of different situations and often they play an important part in calming people down and defusing things. We shouldn’t judge the need for S’Pastors simply on the level of reported crime. I was a bit concerned about whether the S’Pastors would get bored on the quieter nights but on speaking to them, they told me that sometimes this

meant that they could spend more quality time with individuals. Did it take longer than you anticipated to get Street Pastors up and running?

I remember attending a meeting approx. 3 years ago in relation to S’Pastors and the possibility of setting it up in Winchester and most Churches were represented. However, many other Church initiatives had been running, such as J John at the Cathedral and they decided that they needed a bit of a break and to consolidate.We were very disappointed, especially as it was another couple of years before we started the S’P scheme in Winchester.Having said that, I think it was David Williams from Christchurch that recently said to me (with his wry smile), that the delay must have been God’s timing, as we have all been amazed at the high calibre of people that have become S’Pastors.

Now that it is up and running, what are the benefits (if any) that you as a Police Officer can see as a result of Street Pastors?

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I believe that Winchester is now a safer and more pleasant place to be. Everyone has really taken to the S’Pastors and I have no doubt that seeing them on the streets provides reassurance to a wide range of people. As people get to know about them and see them on the streets they are more likely to call upon their services. Our crime statistics show a significant drop in the amount of assaults and criminal damage incidents since the S’Pastors started.

How do you anticipate having Street Pastors on the streets of Winchester three nights instead of just two having an effect on the night time community?

I think there is a real need to have S’Pastors out on Thursday nights as it can be as busy as or busier than a Friday night. We have already seen what a positive impact the S’Pastors have had on the Fri/Sat nights and I am sure this will also happen on the Thursday nights.

There can sometimes be the confusion that Street Pastors are in some way ‘just another branch of the Police force’...what would you say to someone who held that view and why.

I firmly believe that one of the reasons for S’Pastors being so successful is because they are independent from the police and are viewed as such by the public. This isn’t to say that we don’t work closely with the S’Pastors because clearly we do. However, whilst we support the S’Pastors and may have a chat and a laugh with them when we meet up with them, we do not patrol together. Some of the roles carried out by S’Pastors could be interpreted as those that used to be carried out by the police. What we recognise

and appreciate, is that sometimes S’Pastors may perform certain roles just as effectively or more effectively than us. A good example would be in trying to calm people down who are upset/angry after an incident. These people may react negatively to a police officer who has just arrested their friend(s) but will be more receptive to the words/actions from a S’Pastor.

What is the most vital role you see Street Pastors actively taking on, on any given night they are out?

I have already mentioned some of the vital roles and this includes offering a reassuring presence on the streets and the ability to spend time with people. Most police officers enjoy dealing with people but the reality is, that on Thurs, Fri and Sat nights our resources are stretched; this means we often don’t often have the luxury of spending as much time with people as we might like. It is quite clear that sometimes people just want to talk to someone but don’t have anybody who is interested or that they trust. I believe that some of the S’Pastors have found that they have had wonderful encounters (or should I say divine appointments) that will have had a significant effect on that person and sometimes the S’Pastor.

Do you see in the distant future whether it would be beneficial to expand the role of Street Pastors within the community?

I do believe that there is the potential to expand the role of S’Pastors within the community. An example of this might be for an additional group of S’Pastors to patrol areas outside the Town Centre to try and engage with some of the young people. This

might mean having a patrol time of say 2000- 2300 and using mobile patrols that would visit different areas such as recreation grounds/housing estates. Due to the different time commitments and likely age groups, this may well appeal to some of those within our congregations that cannot or don’t feel led to be a S’Pastor at present. However, it is vital that we don’t lose sight of the original aim/mandate which was to provide S’Pastors in the Town Centre. The S’Pastor Management Committee is aware that at some point in the future it might be right to expand the role of S’Pastors and we would be grateful if you could pray that we would have wisdom and know God’s timing in this.

And finally, is there anything you’d say to someone who might be seriously considering joining as either a Street Pastor or Prayer Pastor?

Without a doubt, it is a big commitment! Firstly there is the training and then there is the walking the streets to some unearthly hour in the morning. Having said that, I get the impression that all of the S’Pastors are really glad they took that step of faith. I believe it provides an important opportunity to offer something of the Church to the community and, at the same time, I am sure that God will use the experience to stretch and develop individuals and their own walks with God. We are always on the lookout for new S’Pastors. If you are unsure of whether it is for you, why not chat to some S’Pastors, speak to Mark Hibbert-Hingston (Co-ordinator) and possibly join a S’Pastor patrol as an observer for the night.

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MeettheStudents

•Kelsie Shingler

1. Name, Age, Study? Kelsie Shingler, 20, Performing Arts And Theology and Religious Studies

2. How long have you been at Winbap? And what is the thing that attracted you here? Been here just over a year now, I liked that everybody was so friendly and that the worship was great. Really felt at home here even after my first visit.

3. Fav Bible Verse and why. Harder Question, so many to choose from. I think perhaps 2 Thessalonians 1: 11 "With this in mind we constantly pray for you that our God may count you worthy of his calling , and that by His power He may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith." This verse was given to me at my baptism and so is special to me for that reason but it also helps when I need encouragement in something I'm doing, especially when I'm going to an audition or similar.

3a. How did you spend your New Year?This year I spent it with my family at the local recreation club. But last year was perhaps a bit more exciting because I went to London, saw a musical on the 30th and then on New Years Eve we partied at our hotel. Unfortunately we were in Heathrow though so no fireworks!

4. Fav Song, Secular and Christian and why.Christian: King of Kings- It's so humbling but at the same time so uplifting.Secular: I'm liking the Overtones at the moment and Gambling Man.

5. What are you most looking forward to in 2012?Well, I've auditioned to be a performer in the Olympic opening ceremony and, at the moment I'm waiting to find out if I've got a place. If so exciting things will be happening in 2012.

6. Hobbies and interests?Dance and Musical Theatre, literally talk about these non stop.

7. Fav Musical and why?Priscilla Queen of the Desert all the way such a feel good musical, seen it 3 times and actually listening to the soundtrack as I write this. And it meant that I met Ray Maegher aka Alf Stewart from Home and Away. But I like most things. I think I've found 2 musicals I don't really like so far and I watch a lot.

8. What type of footwear do you prefer dancing in?Well that would have to be my Tap shoes. Love tap, I’ve got metal on my feet, such a novelty.

9. If you had to describe Winchester in 7 words what would you say?Amazing and Friendly, with good trains. LONDON! (might not make sense but at least its 7 words!)

10. Best way of beating the winter Blues?Hot Chocolate and a massive bag of Haribo watching ‘The Holiday’!

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MeettheStudents

•Kelsie Shingler

1. Name, Age, Study? Kelsie Shingler, 20, Performing Arts And Theology and Religious Studies

2. How long have you been at Winbap? And what is the thing that attracted you here? Been here just over a year now, I liked that everybody was so friendly and that the worship was great. Really felt at home here even after my first visit.

3. Fav Bible Verse and why. Harder Question, so many to choose from. I think perhaps 2 Thessalonians 1: 11 "With this in mind we constantly pray for you that our God may count you worthy of his calling , and that by His power He may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith." This verse was given to me at my baptism and so is special to me for that reason but it also helps when I need encouragement in something I'm doing, especially when I'm going to an audition or similar.

3a. How did you spend your New Year?This year I spent it with my family at the local recreation club. But last year was perhaps a bit more exciting because I went to London, saw a musical on the 30th and then on New Years Eve we partied at our hotel. Unfortunately we were in Heathrow though so no fireworks!

4. Fav Song, Secular and Christian and why.Christian: King of Kings- It's so humbling but at the same time so uplifting.Secular: I'm liking the Overtones at the moment and Gambling Man.

5. What are you most looking forward to in 2012?Well, I've auditioned to be a performer in the Olympic opening ceremony and, at the moment I'm waiting to find out if I've got a place. If so exciting things will be happening in 2012.

6. Hobbies and interests?Dance and Musical Theatre, literally talk about these non stop.

7. Fav Musical and why?Priscilla Queen of the Desert all the way such a feel good musical, seen it 3 times and actually listening to the soundtrack as I write this. And it meant that I met Ray Maegher aka Alf Stewart from Home and Away. But I like most things. I think I've found 2 musicals I don't really like so far and I watch a lot.

8. What type of footwear do you prefer dancing in?Well that would have to be my Tap shoes. Love tap, I’ve got metal on my feet, such a novelty.

9. If you had to describe Winchester in 7 words what would you say?Amazing and Friendly, with good trains. LONDON! (might not make sense but at least its 7 words!)

10. Best way of beating the winter Blues?Hot Chocolate and a massive bag of Haribo watching ‘The Holiday’!

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As the days begin to lengthen slowly again in the New Year, it is a relief to many of us, but perhaps especially to those who suffer from ‘SAD’ or ‘Seasonal Affective Disorder’.‘SAD’ is a bit more than feeling ‘fed-up’ at this time of year. It is a proper recognised medical condition, a type of mood disorder, which causes a variable degree of depression, triggered by low levels of light. It is treated in part by the use of ‘Light Therapy’, either by exposure to sunlight or the use of powerful ‘ Light Lamps’, in addition to CBT(cognitive behaviour therapy) and antidepressants where necessary. However it makes up only a very small proportion of the total cases of depression, which is estimated to affect 8% of males and 12% of females in the UK at some time in their lives.

Too often in our Christian ‘World View’ we accept the former as legitimate , but not the latter. We are embarrassed to share with others that we suffer from depression or anxiety and

reluctant to ask for prayer.I have suffered from both depression and anxiety myself several times in my life and have struggled with feelings of frustration, inadequacy and guiltas a result, believing that it was somehow ‘wrong’ to be affected in this way and that it showed my lack of faith in God.Many people tell me that friends and family can appear to be more critical than supportive and inclined to be dismissive or suggest simplistic solutions. Also misinformation and misunderstanding of proven medical treatments are very often mixed with a strong dose of disapproval that we should seek this type of help. It seems odd that we are happy to receive treatment for high blood pressure, diabetes or fractures, but not for mental health problems. Somehow Ibuprofen and insulin are ok, but not antidepressants!.I believe that I have received healing from the Lord through both medication and prayer at different times and the Bible is full of verses that speak into these problems. Here are two that have meant a lot to me: Isaiah 26 v 3 - ‘He will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee’ (RSV) and 1 Peter 5 v 7 and 10 – ‘Cast all you anxiety on him because he cares for you.’ - ‘And the God of all grace, who called

you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong firm and steadfast.’ There are many others, I have listed a few at the bottom. Wouldn’t it be good to be able to be share more openly about these issues without fear of being judged. Let’s not reject any form of help from the Lord, whether it is prayer, inner healing (such as SOZO) or medication or indeed a combination of all the above. I want very much for you to know how much our Father cares about you and wants to see you well and whole again. I believe he wants to walk through this with you and be intimately involved in your healing and full restoration. May the ‘Light of his Presence’ shine on you in this New Year .

Psalm 40 v 1-3, Isaiah 35 v 3-4, Psalm 94 v 18-19, John 14 v 26-27, Psalm 147 v 3.

“It is tempting for Christians to fall into the trap of dividing illnesses into physical and emotional. “

Kathy Fowler7

I first became interested in the Winchester Churches Nightshelter when I read an article in the church magazine written by Liz Howe in 2009.

I went along to the Nightshelter and had a talk with Liz, then she showed me round. I was amazed at what was on offer there. I decided there and then that this was for me. After all the formalities were over, I went very nervously, for a ‘taster’ session. The majority of us would think ‘Homeless’ -‘smelly’, so I went along with a perfumed hanky hooked into my watch strap. My sons always said I could smell something unpleasant from 50 yards. I had some experience with rough sleepers who were out in all weathers. I made sandwiches, pies and drinks and gave them to the regulars that I spoke to in the Cathedral grounds. I didn’t realize that people from different churches went round with food in the mornings, that they could eat at the Trinity Centre, the Salvation Army and, that there were soup runs at night.When I arrived at the Nightshelter I was made very welcome and showed the ropes. I was introduced to several of the guests and others introduced themselves. I was surprised by the mix of people from aged 17 to 70. Some of the young people had been thrown out of the family home for varying reasons, others had marriage breakdowns, lost their jobs and homes. Sometimes men and women have had to leave their homes because of their

partner’s abuse. Quite surprisingly a number of men have been abused and moved out for their own safety. Some are trying to get off alcohol and drugs. The Nightshelter is a drug and alcohol free centre. Everyone is breathalized before they come in. If they are over the limit they are encouraged to drink lots of coffee, which we provide, and run round the car park a few times. That usually does the trick!I found my ‘taster’ session very interesting. Most of the guests jumped into the showers and baths after a day outside so I didn’t feel the need to sniff my hanky very often. Joking aside, most of the guests are happy to come in, have a shower, a delicious hot meal, sit and watch the enormous donated television or use the IT or Quiet Rooms. There’s a laundry to wash their clothes in. Some guests only have the clothes they stand up in so we look together in the clothes cupboard and find them a couple of complete outfits. These clothes have been donated. If donating pants and socks it’s better that they’re new! When guests arrive at the Nightshelter for the first time they have reached rock bottom. They are made welcome by kind reassuring words and a hot meal. From then on if they accept all

the help that they are offered, they can only rise up. Some ask where the nearest church is. We have four nearby. Occasionally I have taken a guest with me. It’s an uncomfortable feeling walking into a church not knowing anyone, though W. B.C. has a wealth of friendly faces.There are lots of opportunities for anyone to volunteer. Being a volunteer is very rewarding. I feel privileged to be able to do it.

Thanks Roz for sharing some of your experiences and thoughts as a Nightshelter volunteer. Please pray for the work of organisations working with the homeless, their staff and volunteers, that they would be able to bring hope as well as practical help to those they serve.If you’ would like to find out more about the work of WCN, please visit their website at www . wcns

. org . uk or contact Michele or Liz on 01962 862050. There are lots of opportunities to help both when guests are and are not present, from admin and cleaning to cooking and overnighters or a new role for 2012 Allotment coordinator!If you work or volunteer for a ‘social action’ organisation which you would like to see highlighted in the WinBap Mag, please chat to Joanne Meharg.

Roz Gearon

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One Thursday night back in March, a few of us trekked to Camden through the London traffic to see the recording of this live album by Worship Central. This is a school of worship set up by Tim Hughes and Matt Redman to train worship leaders around the World, and indeed to date 100,000 people have attended their training days.So on this evening both the aforementioned were present along with Ben Cantelon, Nikki Fletcher and a host of others crammed onto the stage. It was a great evening of powerful worship, and this is captured perfectly by this album engineered at Abbey Road.Spirit of The Living God opens proceedings building gradually from crowd noise to a single insistent drumbeat and vocals asking for the Spirit to fall. In come two electric guitars, acoustics, synthesisers as the whole track sets the tone for the evening and the album. A powerful start.

Spirit Break OutNew Day is a song in my least favourite form, too many words, too fast, manic strumming, but in this context it works ok, and the audience were just really waiting to shout the chorus!

At Your Name – starts with a quirky electronic melody line, quickly replaced by a piano melody and vocals stating how all nature responds to the name of the Lord, as do the angels and all of us, His people. The break into the chorus is nice, the melody line coming back, and the crowd enthusiastically shouting the catchy “Yahweh Yahweh” refrain. Loved this on the night and it’s good to join in again here.

Wait for You – is a gently song led by Nikki Fletcher with some lovely worship from the crowd. Reminds me of old worship tracks from New Wine, some nice lead guitar melody and her voice sounds great (better than it did in the warm up!). My favourite track.

The title track, Spirit Break Out, is again a call for the Spirits presence. Insistent drums, clanging guitars, obligatory rapping, crowd singing and excitement – a worthy title track, and a good hook.

Heaven’s Roar was a spontaneous song, leading on from the title track. This was when the evening went up a gear, and that tangible excitement of being with a congregation worshipping the true God is really evident on the CD. There’s just something else in the mix, and the music becomes a channel for our worship, rather than the end itself.

Overall, this is a well recorded and mixed album, capturing the live feel very effectively. It has that raw excitement missing from the rather contrived live albums from the likes of Hillsong.

wayne’s world

WORSHIP CENTRAL

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Dear friendsFirst let me thank you for a fantastic sabbatical. You are so kind and, once on it, we discovered we sooo needed it! I’m still not totally sure how it all came about but in your kindness and generosity it worked in so well with what God was doing in our lives and, we pray, will with ours as a church. Thank you! You are incredibly special to us. (Actually- I also really missed the rhythm of the office and working and worshipping with you!)So some of the personal things that happened on my ‘sabbatical journey’.

God is on the move I spent a number of days working with the Evangelical Alliance as a Unity Ambassador for them (in an unpaid capacity). It has been an absolute thrill and pleasure: going to towns and cities, meeting their Church leaders, asking what they have been doing in United Mission and sharing stories from other towns (and Winchester)… and watching the flame come alight! God is really on the move in our nation and in some ways Winchester is ahead (e.g. in our relationships) and in others a bit behind (e.g. in civic involvement, having a ‘shop window’). Stoke on Trent has a fantastic organisation called Saltbox. They employ 25+ Christians to work with the community and are the first, respected, point of contact between the civic authorities and the faith communities. They are working at changing the whole region. When the churches asked the civic authorities ‘what does Stoke most need to lift its heart?’ ( Jer 29:7 ‘Pray for the prosperity of the city’) they replied ‘A miracle! Stoke City to be in the

Premier League!’ they prayed. It happened. It marked the start of a sea change in the city. With their playing it was a miracle! (Interestingly my first week of Sabbatical was spent cycling in the Peak District with an old mate Steve Price who works for H.O.P.E. When I mentioned this to him he said ‘Oooh! Tingles down the spine! I remember watching them playing a match a while ago and the Spirit of God touching me, saying, ‘Pray for that team!’) Another example is Watford where the Business world and the church has come together. The town has a fantastic high quality goods shop called Presence including a coffee shop, Christian book and music store and a huge plasma screen which introduces enquirers to all the churches and Christian organisations of the town. Above this is a Spa. Above that is an Urban Retreat Centre. It is all supported and driven by business expertise (no thinking that a coffee shop is going to pay for it all). It’s the kind of thing we could do with in Winchester as a front door to our church life.

Alongside this is a ministry training centre. I could go on…. and mustn’t. I so want to tell you about Leicester and the blessing of roads halving accident stats…. But all over the country churches are working together with business and civic authorities for the Kingdom of God to come in their area. God is truly on the move. I also have the privilege of being part of a conference organised by the EA in Feb to bring together leaders from our towns, cities and villages so they can share ideas and catch fire.

Avoiding Satan Very quickly I will also tell you something to amuse you. I went skiing with my friends 11 Dec. It was the wildest most rugged conditions I have ever experienced (early season). Arctic storms. Deluge of rain. Sometimes in the same day. We skied one day at Flaine not able to see more than a metre in front of us at any time and ended up going down a closed off run. We found ourselves faced with the alternative of walking back up a good few hundred metres of mountain (no joke) or

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or going down a closed run called ‘Satan’. I said “No way am I going down that!!” Needless to say, we walked (not fun)! Just as well- it was a crevasse. Michael Campbell got lost off-piste as light was fading. He arrived finally after we had called the rescue services. He said ‘I was beginning to think that was it!’ Another of the group broke a rib or two. But I was okay so it was a good trip!

Father’s heart All in all I spent 6 weeks away from home. One of those weeks Pam and I were both able to go to Mark Stibbe’s Father’s House Trust Leaders Conference. A fantastic time of teaching and getting refreshed. The kind of thing to take the whole leadership to.

Breakthrough at Bethel Some of you will have heard me mention my experience at Bethel, Redding, in the morning of Sun 15th Jan. I have loved my trips to Bethel. There is still a place for modern ‘pilgrimage’ and my relationship with Jesus has been much enriched by them. I have loved the worship there but have often not been able to keep pace with a two hour worship session. The spirit has been willing but the flesh weak (or jet-lagged)! It has

been something I have wanted to break-through in. Folks might have thought me ‘very spiritual’ for ‘resting in the Spirit’ during worship but on previous trips my way of coping was nipping to the back for a nap! No problem or guilt- a good place to nap! On this trip my spirit was released in worship immediately. On the first day I did not even make it to the church till the evening as I was so caught up in pure praise where I was staying. I did not even want music on as the silence was so heavy with God’s Presence. Then on the first Sunday, in the evening service… after 2 hours of praise and a testimony of healing something (Some-One?) appeared above where I was sitting. On and off for three hours. One phenomenon was dusty (like a cloud of candyfloss) and the other was like 500, sometimes 1000, little fireflies or glitter for which there simply could be no explanation but a supernatural one. I would have liked to have switched the lights off to know whether it reflected or radiated light. It (He) was not offended by us observing. It (He) inspired acapella worship for hours. The phenomenon increased when there were testimonies of healing and when a video of it was shown from August. You had the

recording and the real thing side by side. The most amazing, naturally supernatural, phenomenon and sign that makes you wonder that I have ever seen. It pointed me to Jesus and came when He was being mentioned and glorified. And, after we had left (10pm) He/it came back and rained down on those remaining, covering them with a sheen. I tell you- observing this kind of stuff does something to your faith! However, that is still a choice lest we become over-familiar with the glory as did the Israelites for 40 years. (Yes, this kind of stuff is there very clearly in the Bible. Old and New Testaments. Fire and clouds). Since the trip my spirit has been absolutely caught up in worship of God. All I have to do is hear worship music or someone else praising and my spirit leaps inside me and busts out in praise to Jesus.A foretaste of eternity and being ‘lost in wonder, love and praise’, I reckon! May it be your experience, as well. I could go on… and probably will sometime (but only for 25 mins on a Sunday!). However, I must finish and send you my love, gratitude and prayers for God to move in your life and this congregation in the way He knows best.Yours,

Ewen

Yours

Ewen

11

So where will the Bible (and the leadership team!) take us in 2012? If you just can’t wait for the Introductory Sermon by Ewen, take a sneak peak right here... We are aiming for a city at the centre of an Empire. A multicultural metropolis, with a huge wealth gulf ! No, not London! Think 50AD - and you’ll find yourself in Rome. One could summarise the city as a smelly, mostly pagan, commercial soup. Yet, by the first century AD this very city had become the centre for the Arts, a magnet for poets, and littered with magnificent buildings. Its rulers have included such monumental characters as Romulus, Gaius Julius Caesar, Augustus and Nero. Under the latter’s orders and his son’s hand, the Temple of Jerusalem was destroyed in 70AD. Such was the reach of the Emperors. Into such a city Paul sent a letter to a group of Christians. A minority, mostly Gentiles whose relationship with the Jewish Christians was tense to say the least. This letter has since become a cornerstone in the New Testament and provides a wonderful and joyous account of God’s Saving Grace to both Jews and Gentiles. As the saying goes there is nothing new under the sun, and in every society we can find similarities and differences with our own.

12

So why not take the plunge, and get stuck into the book of Romans. You will be guided by our Leadership team, and our small groups are being encouraged to use study notes based on the letter…But don’t take a sub-editor’s words for it. Take a moment to ponder on the thoughts from individuals who have spent time in bible studies over the years…

ROMANSTHE BOOK OF

“We are half way through a study on Galatians in our house group (Babs’s house), which is the preparation for Romans anyway. The idea of a system-atic study of Romans on Sundays, fol-lowed by studying the same Scriptures at the group, is a great way of getting to grips with the letter and the great doctrines consistently.”Paul & Arlette Drury

“I enjoy my housegroup because it is a source of encouragement, fellowship and extremely good cakes and biscuits!  I think it is good to follow the Sunday sermons as I think they stimulate a lot of discussion. The only problem can be when people have missed that week’s service.“Lois Gravely

“I have not been attending a House Group for several years, but I have recently restarted & I look forward to the studies on Romans, esp in co-ordination with sermon series. We led a House Group for over 20 years until about 2005 & I had a prolonged break, some enforced when I was ill, a fairly good excuse, but not for all of my ab-sence. I am in a Prayer Triplet , but we do not do Bible Study. We started  off with Renovare material on Streams of Christian Spirituality - very helpful for some. I think Renovare material fits well with Prayer Triplets which can become just praying for each other’s problems - although that is helpful, I think we should attempt more & not just be inward -looking.”Anonymous

13

What is life without having joy? As I take a brief moment to reflect upon this, I realise the sheer importance of every human being having something or someone to be joyful about. Every man on earth searches after his heart’s desires to try and bring joy whether they have a personal relationship with Jesus or not. I have spoken to many people who have been captivated by the worldwide pandemic of sex, money and power to try to bring joy into their lives. Of course I have also been guilty on previous occasion(s!) of seeking the wrong thing to bring joy into my life. I want to take the example of money. When I was in Uganda in 2007 there was one humbling occasion I remember very clearly; it came when we visited an orphanage. This orphanage had many kids that had all lost their parents and/or able family members to look after them, they barely had any earthly materials, certainly no money and barely any clothes. I remember from the moment we arrived to the moment we left there was constant laughter, fun and sheer delight as we spent time with the kids and made crafts. There was

lots of cheerful singing and dancing with absolute joy. At the time as far as I could see there was no reasonable explanation as to why they were so happy. They had no idea what it was like to have any kind of wealth or earthly possessions, even family- so it became very clear that the Lord’s caring hand was on these kids bringing them joy. Along with the overwhelming feeling of guilt that night, after this incredible experience, I was hit with a great revelation that no matter what your circumstance is, nothing canstop you from receiving the only real joy that the Lord has for you. Having now been released into my calling to serve in Russia which I know is at least for the next two years, I have recently been feeling joyful in the Lord despite great heart ache with my auntie, whom I love very much, being seriously ill with cancer. The other day a great mate of mine reminded me of a cracking bible passage: Philippians 4: 6-7 “do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which

transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” I have been very blessed in my walk with God and I realise many of you who read this will also be experiencing various tragedies in your life. No matter how big or small, it doesn’t matter about your circumstance, the Lord has great joy to be released over of which will not be found in any earthly thing. “My prayer for you is that when you present your worries to God with thanksgiving you will receive peace in your heart and be joyful in your calling for His kingdom as the Lord has great plans for you.”

james findlow

photography by barry man

n

14

In the 19th century Women in the USA and Canada had been encouraging one another in personal and communal prayer. This led to annual days of prayers within individual denominations.

In 1928 at an international missionary gathering in Jerusalem Mrs Grace Forgan heard about this, and in 1930 the first service was held in Scotland, then in 1932 in England.

Women’s World Day of Prayer is a worldwide movement of Christian women of many traditions who welcome all people to observe a common day of prayer on the first Friday in March. It is an ecumenical movement that brings together women of various races, cultures and traditions in closer fellowship, understanding and action throughout the year.

Women are encouraged-to become aware of the whole world and no longer live in isolation.-to be enriched by the faith experience of Christians of other countries-to take up the burdens of other people and pray with and for them.-to become aware of their talents and use them in the service of society.

This year the service has been prepared by the Christian Women of Malaysia and is titled ‘Let Justice Prevail’. This service will be held on March 2nd at 2p.m. - venue to follow.

It is great to play a small part in this service and to realize that when our service finishes in Winchester another will be starting in another country

’As o’er each continent and island

The dawn leads to another day

The voice of prayer is never silent

Nor dies the strain ot praise away.’’

For more information please see Brenda Holman.

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I wrote an article in the last magazine looking at Traditions. Well Valentines Day is certainly one of our most well known. Yet the way in which it has evolved is truly extraordinary, and its origins have become so lost that it eclipses the extent to which Christmas has been turned into a consumerist ‘winter’ holiday.Several martyrs sharing the common name Valentine are historically noted to have been killed for refusing to denounce their faith in Jesus Christ. The actual details have been lost, though legends abound. Strangely enough, the beginning of Spring, the courtship of birds and a couplet by Chaucer have been added to the mix, and resulted in what we know as St Valentines Day, with its multibillion pound card and floral industry.Current trends include post boxes in schools where students post cards to their friends and teachers. Millions of ecards are sent down global internet cables, and the gift and greeting card companies rub their hands in glee!I may sound cynical (marriage to a ‘non-conforming-to-Valentine’s-day’ hubby has not helped!). But despite the commercialism I still love receiving a red envelope! I received my first aged 8 by a boy in my class and I still remember going home and telling my parents that I had a boyfriend – for me that hand made card on a folded piece of A4 paper was very exciting and special!But what on earth do doves and firing (or in some cases misfiring!) Cupids have to do with martyrs from circa 200AD? Has the meaning become so totally lost that trying to link the history is futile and almost irreverent to those brothers and sisters who were murdered for their faith?Like most things in life it is so easy to throw the baby out with the bath water. In all honesty Valentine’s Day is for the most part a great opportunity to tell those around us that we love them. Yes, it has become a profitable day, but one

Christians martyred for not renouncing their faith in the first centuries AD…Several centuries later…one romantic turn of phrase written in Olde English…Many centuries later…£Billion greeting cards industry

I give you…

can celebrate without spending any money. And what is the message that those martyrs so long ago refused to give up…The message that God loves us. That is the Gospel Message. Without God’s love it means nothing. We would remain lost, and far from Him. He gave us the perfect gift of Eden, and He gave us an even greater one – Jesus- to restore us to Him. There is no greater love than that. So as you ponder on Valentines Day, and perhaps close that red envelope with a SWLK, remember above all that God first loved us and that He “kissed a guilty world in love”…

Mari Clifton

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BMS Birthday Scheme

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

1 February Alan Heppell

1 March Mary Ivkovic14 March Rod Ivkovic19 March Molly Cooper

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

The MAG Board can be found at the very back of the church behind the sound desk, and here is a little taster of what is to come over February/March. Its always worth a look, you might just see something that catches your interest...

February: Paul Bulkeley has been working for a number of years with a Pentecostal Pastor in Tamil Nadu, South India on various projects including evangelism, leprosy work and an orphanage. His vision now is to help equip the church to raise up a generation of Christians in business who recognise its potential as ministry. Over the past two years he has visited India three times to run conferences on Kingdom Business. March: Tearfund – this will be a general board about Tearfund’s work and its overall aim is to inspire local churches to transform their communities – at home as well as in the poorest parts of the world. Their vision is not just an end to poverty – it’s about local churches being the body of Christ, bringing the kingdom of heaven to earth.

For more information on what goes on behind the scenes with the MAG group please see Margaret Heffer.

I was on a date with this real ly hot model. Wel l, it wasn’t real ly a date date. We just ate dinner and saw a movie. Then the plane landed.

Date Attell

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I have to be honest, these two phrases came from the packaging of two different items, not one. The first, our very fine imitation Norway Spruce Christmas Tree, bought several years ago in the January sales for about twenty quid, and the second from the new, blue, screens in the Church Hall. I don’t know why the phrases caught my eye and made me reach for the pen. If you love writing, things like that can provoke the creative juices as can a beautiful scene if you are a painter. The truth is neither was wholly true. The first phrase, intended to be a description of just how easily one could sort out the colour-coded tree branches, neatly arrange them on the table in piles, (taking care not to mistake light grey for dark grey markers), open each up in turn so that they look like real branches, and then place them on the tree stem in correct order, locked in place and, yes, within minutes, you have a Christmas Tree. Within minutes? Technically, yes. In the sense that Hadrian’s Wall was built in minutes, and we could walk from our house in Liss to Winchester in minutes… about ten hours worth of minutes. So, it’s true and yet

we know it’s not really true. Not usefully true. It doesn’t represent anything that benefits the user. And there was no spanner in the box. Yes, there were panels and legs and castors and nuts and bolts - and Allen Keys, but no spanners. No spanner… well, I guess that was just a plain old mistake. There should have been. It said there was and there wasn’t. Trade Descriptions here we come… So what does this have to do with joy? I haven’t a clue but let’s explore it. Joy is one of those powerful feelings that, sadly, has been devalued. Rather like ‘awe’. “Wow, awesome”, people cry, when they mean ‘pretty good.’ “…Imagine the joy of receiving each quarter a cheque from your electricity company…” a quote from an advert for Solar EV panels. I might be pleased, very glad, hugely relieved, smile etc to have such a payment… but, ‘joy’? I rather think not. The dumbing-down of such profound words is something we regret but, to our great loss, have accommodated. That’s not good news. Spurred on

by the IT generation everything has to be instantaneously accessible, pleasurable, preferably cheap, effortless, lightweight, portable and make me feel like I might well soon have control of my entire destiny (if not the world), and the amazing thing is, probably, it will fit in my pocket when I find it. Come on guys, life is not like that, is it? Doesn’t it take time and effort and commitment to pursue the worthwhile in life? As Christians, I put it to you that we have to raise our eyes to find a deeper meaning of joy (if that isn’t a contradiction in terms!) I think I experienced joy when my children were born and I held them in my arms, but to be honest, it was joy mixed with all sorts of other emotions (including a little fear, uncertainty and anxiety!). Dictionaries don’t help much at this juncture. They point to: Happiness, Gladness, Sense of wellbeing – words that don’t really scratch the itch.

18

In scripture, the word joy is used a great deal; in the Psalms and Isaiah’s prophecies in particular. But here’s one from Hebrews. “Jesus… who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Ah, this sounds diff erent. Th is is ‘joy’ being used to depict something light-years apart from my solar panel advert. Th e joy of longing for destiny fulfi lled, it’s heavenly … and is about being intimately positioned with God. It also seems to transcend immediate, even desperately harrowing circumstances. Unlike my Christmas tree’s claims and the spanner-less blue screens, to my spirit, this seems to represent something usefully and radically life-changing. Is it, perhaps, to do with a sense of being in God’s presence, or the promise of it? Awesome!! When the psalms speak of ‘joy’ I think the writers are depicting greater feelings than say, turning up to church with a smile and whistling the latest chorus from a particularly anointed song. A number of phrases come to mind: “Th e city of our God; the joy of the whole earth”; “Joyful with gladness in Your presence”; “Th e trees sing for joy”. Are you getting my drift? Isaiah writes of reaction to God’s restoration; “…Joyously drawing water from the wells of salvation.” Without putting you on the spot, have you joyously drawn water recently? I suspect, not. I know, that joy is not always straightforward in its manifestation. (Don’t judge me by the ephemeral expressions of my face). I remember a long night of untold joy when God came close and I wept, sobbed, moaned and groaned, and consumed an entire box of tissues in the process. I recall a very personal time, which

I have shared publicly, when, two days after my late-wife, Alison, died it was Christmas Day.

Despite the sense of being ripped to pieces, being quite alone, having no decorations or cards opened and only a cheese sandwich for lunch, I was overwhelmed with joy. Really. I still have a piece that I wrote that day to remind me. God was with me. Oh, joy! Th e disciples, according to Matthew, after the resurrection of Jesus, “departed from the tomb full of fear and great joy.” Luke, in his very precise Greek, tells us, “And while they still could not believe it for joy and for marvelling, He said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” It seems to me maybe that joy is to do with the rejoicing of the heart in the presence of God. Th is is why Christians are joyful. And, please note, they may not be wearing a smile when you glimpse them. Paul wrote (to the Corinthian Church), “Great is my confi dence in you, great is my boasting on your behalf; I am fi lled with comfort. I am overfl owing with joy in all our affl iction.” So, I pray that our great God, our wonderful heavenly Father, will fi ll you with all joy, as you draw close to Him in this season; irrespective of circumstances, bodies, faces, trials or the weather. Do not be afraid! See, I bring you good news of a great joy, which shall be for all people...Th e Saviour.. Th e Christ… Th e Lord… He comes to YOU.

DAVID STRUTT

“People usual ly consider walking on water or in thin air a miracle. But I think the real miracle is not to walk either on water or in thin air, but to walk on earth. Every day we are engaged in a miracle which we don’t even recognize: a blue sky, white clouds, green leaves, the black, curious eyes of a child -- our own two eyes. Al l is a miracle.”Thich Nhat Hanh

19

2011 was the 400th anniversary of the King James (‘Authorised’) translation of the Bible. This translation was overseen by the then Bishop of Winchester, Lancelot Andrews and was a momentous event. Though the translation was done with the public reading of the Bible in mind, it was really the first time the Bible was put en masse, into the hands of people like you and me. We have a lot to be thankful for and commemorate.

Hence all kinds of focuses were made on the Bible in 2011 in celebration of this - by the BBC, The Bible Society, Winchester Cathedral etc. An organisation called ‘Bible Fresh’ spearheaded some of this promotion and, amongst other things, challenged individuals to read the whole Bible in one year. When we as Winchester Clergy heard this our response was ‘this is something that must, above all places, happen in our City!’ Research was done into what format to take and in the end we bought the remains of a whole print-run of the ‘NIV Bible in a year’ and offered it to the city’s churches.

A number of churches in the city participated in the synchronised reading, notably: The Cathedral, Christ Church, St Peter’s (RC) and ourselves. Our Caroline Andrews typed out the verse/day allocations and that was made available to those who preferred to use their own bibles rather than give £10 for the hardback Bible in a Year (which went to Bible Translation in Sudan).

Winchester Baptist Church had a very high take up of this for our size. Over 100 people/families bought the book and more participated using the daily allocations and their own Bibles. Well done!

Regarding Bible in a Year, I started last year with Lucas and Katrina, aiming to complete it all as a family (Colin listened in quite frequently).  We got through to Exodus and then homework and the totally repetitive nature of the making of the tabernacle and all those sacrifices just got the better of the kids and we got further and further behind so that we eventually called it quits.  That said, I’ve just restarted, and have the HTB notes to go with each reading. Kirsty Plant

“

“

The Bible in a year....completed on time...but not with some struggles! For me it was both an act of discipline and an act of love. I’m glad that I’ve done it (again!) There were some “eureka” moments – e.g. coming across familiar verses the context of which I had forgotten; understanding historical contexts particularly in the OT; reading larger sections and getting a fuller picture.There were some “non-eureka” moments when I asked myself what on earth can I get from this?Would I recommend this exercise to others? Most certainly because it is so much more than an exercise.....I really believe it is honouring to God it is a privilege to access His Word. Anonymous - Christian 52 years

Bible in a year. I finished it! Feel like I need a medal or something, found it a little confusing reading different bits of the Bible at the same time, and occasionally as I am a bear of little brain failed to spot that we’d moved from OT to NT resulting in some deep, but luckily brief confusion on my part. Having said that I now feel a sense of accomplishment and having got into slightly better habit of reading the Bible regularly am now looking for my next reading plan, hopefully I will find one with some explanation running along side. Some elements that I read through last year left me feeling enlightened and empowered and some left me feeling even more baffled than before. Jo May

I read the bible through many years ago, and then more recently using Selwyn Hughes’ Chronological version. But I decided to use this version for 2011 and I did it! I had to make myself do it, and it wasn’t always easy, but I’ve found new things and got a good overview again. Wendy (been a Christian for 70 yrs).

Arlette and I have faithfully kept to the readings in the green Bible. Of course, as we are “retired” we have no excuse for doing otherwise! Normally one would read the New Testament twice and the Old Testament once when reading through the Bible systematically. With the green Bible there was a load of OT and relatively small NT daily. In the late 1950s I managed to get through the Bible from cover to cover in ten months - the first time I had ever read the book! One year I did it in three months and a bit, but I have long given up trying for records. However, reading right through does give a good overview of what can seem a daunting read to some. Paul Drury who’s been a Christian for about 54 years, and Arlette for 60 this year.

I did Bible a Year right to 31st December. I even managed on holiday by downloading the sheet listing passages for appropriate dates.  I readily admit that being retired helps a lot & I don’t think I would have kept it going if I had been working, esp if full-time. I can see the problem of Mums with toddlers. I am not doing it again in 2012 & although my wife is going to do it. Having completed it, how do I feel? I feel a sense of achievement & an overview of the whole of scripture. However, I do feel that I did not have enough depth in ‘getting through’ so much. There are no references or footnotes in Hodder’s Bible in a Year & I suppose I am used to that. I have done SU Notes since my teenage years, ‘Encounter with God’ for many years. I also read NIV version of Daily Light morning & evening thematic scripture passages - although I do AM & PM together, not twice daily. I find that helpful for ‘meditation’ to complement  ‘study’, although there is overlap. For several years, I have been doing Celtic Daily Prayers, which include scripture passages as well as helpful liturgies. I have not used them every day but I almost stopped when doing Bible a Year - it was just too much & that is mainly why I am not doing Bible a Year again in 2012. Like you, I would be interested to find out how others managed. As we order them from the bookshop, we know SU notes order went down last year, but have increased again this year. I would like to encourage daily bible reading for everyone with SU notes, or other similar ones. Anonymous I am 65 next month & have been a Christian since boyhood - baptised at 14.

WHAT YOU SAID

20

2011 was the 400th anniversary of the King James (‘Authorised’) translation of the Bible. This translation was overseen by the then Bishop of Winchester, Lancelot Andrews and was a momentous event. Though the translation was done with the public reading of the Bible in mind, it was really the first time the Bible was put en masse, into the hands of people like you and me. We have a lot to be thankful for and commemorate.

Hence all kinds of focuses were made on the Bible in 2011 in celebration of this - by the BBC, The Bible Society, Winchester Cathedral etc. An organisation called ‘Bible Fresh’ spearheaded some of this promotion and, amongst other things, challenged individuals to read the whole Bible in one year. When we as Winchester Clergy heard this our response was ‘this is something that must, above all places, happen in our City!’ Research was done into what format to take and in the end we bought the remains of a whole print-run of the ‘NIV Bible in a year’ and offered it to the city’s churches.

A number of churches in the city participated in the synchronised reading, notably: The Cathedral, Christ Church, St Peter’s (RC) and ourselves. Our Caroline Andrews typed out the verse/day allocations and that was made available to those who preferred to use their own bibles rather than give £10 for the hardback Bible in a Year (which went to Bible Translation in Sudan).

Winchester Baptist Church had a very high take up of this for our size. Over 100 people/families bought the book and more participated using the daily allocations and their own Bibles. Well done!

Regarding Bible in a Year, I started last year with Lucas and Katrina, aiming to complete it all as a family (Colin listened in quite frequently).  We got through to Exodus and then homework and the totally repetitive nature of the making of the tabernacle and all those sacrifices just got the better of the kids and we got further and further behind so that we eventually called it quits.  That said, I’ve just restarted, and have the HTB notes to go with each reading. Kirsty Plant

“

“

The Bible in a year....completed on time...but not with some struggles! For me it was both an act of discipline and an act of love. I’m glad that I’ve done it (again!) There were some “eureka” moments – e.g. coming across familiar verses the context of which I had forgotten; understanding historical contexts particularly in the OT; reading larger sections and getting a fuller picture.There were some “non-eureka” moments when I asked myself what on earth can I get from this?Would I recommend this exercise to others? Most certainly because it is so much more than an exercise.....I really believe it is honouring to God it is a privilege to access His Word. Anonymous - Christian 52 years

Bible in a year. I finished it! Feel like I need a medal or something, found it a little confusing reading different bits of the Bible at the same time, and occasionally as I am a bear of little brain failed to spot that we’d moved from OT to NT resulting in some deep, but luckily brief confusion on my part. Having said that I now feel a sense of accomplishment and having got into slightly better habit of reading the Bible regularly am now looking for my next reading plan, hopefully I will find one with some explanation running along side. Some elements that I read through last year left me feeling enlightened and empowered and some left me feeling even more baffled than before. Jo May

I read the bible through many years ago, and then more recently using Selwyn Hughes’ Chronological version. But I decided to use this version for 2011 and I did it! I had to make myself do it, and it wasn’t always easy, but I’ve found new things and got a good overview again. Wendy (been a Christian for 70 yrs).

Arlette and I have faithfully kept to the readings in the green Bible. Of course, as we are “retired” we have no excuse for doing otherwise! Normally one would read the New Testament twice and the Old Testament once when reading through the Bible systematically. With the green Bible there was a load of OT and relatively small NT daily. In the late 1950s I managed to get through the Bible from cover to cover in ten months - the first time I had ever read the book! One year I did it in three months and a bit, but I have long given up trying for records. However, reading right through does give a good overview of what can seem a daunting read to some. Paul Drury who’s been a Christian for about 54 years, and Arlette for 60 this year.

I did Bible a Year right to 31st December. I even managed on holiday by downloading the sheet listing passages for appropriate dates.  I readily admit that being retired helps a lot & I don’t think I would have kept it going if I had been working, esp if full-time. I can see the problem of Mums with toddlers. I am not doing it again in 2012 & although my wife is going to do it. Having completed it, how do I feel? I feel a sense of achievement & an overview of the whole of scripture. However, I do feel that I did not have enough depth in ‘getting through’ so much. There are no references or footnotes in Hodder’s Bible in a Year & I suppose I am used to that. I have done SU Notes since my teenage years, ‘Encounter with God’ for many years. I also read NIV version of Daily Light morning & evening thematic scripture passages - although I do AM & PM together, not twice daily. I find that helpful for ‘meditation’ to complement  ‘study’, although there is overlap. For several years, I have been doing Celtic Daily Prayers, which include scripture passages as well as helpful liturgies. I have not used them every day but I almost stopped when doing Bible a Year - it was just too much & that is mainly why I am not doing Bible a Year again in 2012. Like you, I would be interested to find out how others managed. As we order them from the bookshop, we know SU notes order went down last year, but have increased again this year. I would like to encourage daily bible reading for everyone with SU notes, or other similar ones. Anonymous I am 65 next month & have been a Christian since boyhood - baptised at 14.

WHAT YOU SAID

21

From the library....Getting your kids through church without them ending up hating God.

9780857210531Rob Parsons

This is not a “how to bring up Godly children” manual, but more a look at some of the reasons children may have at not following the Christian ways they grew up with.Being a fairly perfectionist mother (a failing I am more than happy to admit!), I found it refreshing and a valuable reminder to read that I am not totally responsible for the spiritual journey my children take. Proverbs 22 v 6 is a principle not a guarantee - now there’s a new idea! As parents we may have many burdens to carry. This however, is not one of them!Many sensible ideas are encouraged, some I recognise from advice given from when my children were toddlers, some principles I’ve heard about for living with teenagers. Having a heart for Africa, I liked the analogy to the Big Five - although he writes of the Big Five hunters that stalk our homes with the “ability to harm or even kill the faith in our children”. Following on from this, he examines the three disappointments that at some time or other will come into the lives of every believer. Don’t despair. No need to get the sack cloth and ashes. Parsons ends on a positive note, giving further anecdotes with dotted wisdom, reminding us that we are still their parents and that as we protect and love our children, we should not forget to teach them to fly.

Reviews from Goodreads.com....

Babs Klampe

Kindle

SERIOUSLY FUNNYISBN: 9781850788690Arian Plass and Jeff Lucas

What a gem. Adrian Plass, my favourite modern Christian writer, and Jeff Lucas - whom I only recently discovered - team up to produce this book. It consists of letters they exchanged over some months, with a brief introduction by each of them at the begin-ning. I’m assuming the letters - if they really did start their existence that way - have been heavily edited; but it hardly matters. The personalities of the two writers comes across with that wonderful mixture of humour and deep ‘aha’ mo-ments that I’ve found so often with Adrian Plass’s writing.

Available to download in the Kindle format

from Amazon.co.uk for £5.7422

January and February are sometimes thought of as boring periods in the kitchen garden, a bit of a dead time with not much going on or to do. As it happens you could be picking old crops, preparing existing plants and planting ones all at once – if you have the time and energy.

Crops you could still be picking include parsnips, sprouting broccoli, carrots, sprouts (from the bottom of the stalk), kale & cabbage. I cook the sprouts then blanche the kale and cabbage and serve all three with fried onion and bacon – real comfort food which goes well with almost any fish of meat dish.

Working on existing plants this time of year mainly means looking after any fruit you have. If you have strawberries, you could think of covering them with fleece to encourage them to fruit earlier. You should also think about netting fruit trees and gooseberries as our feathered friends love fruit buds and your crop can go in the blink of an eye. Now would be a good time to add slow release, organic fertiliser such as fish, blood and bone to your fruit trees after you have pruned them to keep the centre of the tree open. While you are in a pruning mood, also prune autumn fruiting raspberries (cut them down to 1” above ground level) and gooseberries, blueberries and red & white currants by the end of February.

During February most new planting is done inside a greenhouse or in seed trays on a window ledge. Early crops like beetroot, spinach, radishes, and lettuce would grow well. If you feel like doing something outside there is at least one veg crop you

can plant straight in the ground, Jerusalem artichokes. They need to be down about 1” and 18” apart. If you are thinking of planting potatoes this year, you could start chitting them. Chitting simply means encouraging the seed potatoes to sprout before planting.

Put them in old egg boxes with the blunt end uppermost in a light, cool place then pinch out all but 3 shoots when they are about 1” long before you plant the tubers. If all the above leaves you feel tired out, there is a piece of good news. One job to avoid this time of year if possible is digging. Heavy soil shouldn’t be dug as this can damage the soil structure. One exception would be the preparation of a bean trench. Dig over the soil, dig a trench where the beans will be planted and fill it with rotted manure or the contents of your compost bin. Cover the trench with soil and plant the seeds 1” deep in the ground in May or June.

Strength in humility

As I look around the garden and allotment at this time of year it is easy to be cheered at the sight of the first beginnings of a new season.

lost theplot with

Andy &

Lorna

season. Easy also to be reminded of God’s steadfastness and promise to us as the days begin to lengthen and we begin to emerge from another winter.

There are plenty of bulbs pushing through the soil but the one that always grabs my attention is the snowdrop. Of course, this could be because it is the first bulb of the season to flower. If it was to appear at any other time of year it would simply not be noticed as it is so small and lacks the brash colours of the crocus, daffodil, tulip or any of the larger, louder but later spring bulbs.

It pushes through so early and bows its apparently delicate head in such a humble manner that it is easy to forget that this little thing is the toughest of all our flowers.

Some snowdrops were already in flower at my parents’ place in Ayrshire when I was up for Christmas. In early January, as we cleared up the wreckage in the garden caused by one the worst winter storms I had ever experienced, I couldn’t help but marvel at these little flowers…completely unaffected by all the wind and rain.

I feel that the snowdrop has a quiet lesson to teach us all and I found myself humming the hymn ‘Dear Lord and Father of Mankind’ as I helped repair the greenhouse and split the four fallen trees in the garden.

‘Oh still, small voice of calm’ – how perfectly the snowdrop encapsulates this element of God’s personality.

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This is a real family favourite of ours. With pork belly being a relatively cheap cut of meat it can help with the budgeting in January. s t icky s low-roast pork bel ly

Serves 6what you need:

1.3kg piece pork belly , boned, rind left on and scored (ask your butcher to do this) 2 tsp sunflower oil 1 tsp white peppercorns , crushed (I use normal ground black pepper)3 large onions , sliced 2-3 tbsp clear honey 2 tsp ground cumin 1 red chilli , deseeded and chopped

how you do i t :

prep 10 minutes

Cook 3 hours 30 minutes

• Heat oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas 4. Lay the pork, skin-side up, on a rack in a roasting tin. Trickle with a little oil, then lightly press on the crushed peppercorns and a sprinkling of coarse sea salt. Place in the oven, then cook for 1 hr. Remove from the oven and baste with the juices. Continue to cook for a further 1½ hrs, basting every 20 mins.

• Put the sliced onions in the roasting tin under the pork. Mix the honey together with the cumin and chilli, brush it over the pork, then increase the oven to 200C/fan 180C/ gas 6. Cook for a fur-ther 30-40 mins, basting occasionally, until caramelised with a rich, golden glaze over the pork. Once cooked and tender (this can be easily tested by piercing the flesh with a knife), remove pork from the oven, then leave to rest for 10-15 mins.

• While the pork is resting, heat the tin on the stove with the onions, adding 2 tbsp water. This will lift any residue from the pan, creating a moist cooking liquor. Season the onions with salt and pep-per, then divide between 6 plates. Carve pork into 6 portions, then serve on top of the onions. Pour any remaining liquid over.

I serve this with roasted vegetables and potato wedges or mash.

c a r o l y n ’ s k i t c h e n

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Why do I belong to the Honour Cluster? Well, what can I say, where do I start? First of all, there is the small group I belong to (previously the Badger Farm house group) which has links to the Honour Cluster. Within this group we study the bible, pray, have times of sharing, have lots of fun and laughter, and we have oodles of delicious cakes and biscuits washed down with cups of coffee or tea. Over the past 15 years, God has given me a heart for serving the elderly, and when, on arriving at Winchester Baptist Church in 2007, I discovered that there was a monthly service specifically for the elderly (Silver Service) I was very interested to get involved. Meeting the people on a Thursday afternoon every month is a real joy, and getting to know them and building friendships is a great privilege. Showing the love of Jesus is such a practical thing, just to hold their hand, or to have a listening ear while they chat about themselves, or just spending time with them is very rewarding.

I think one of the most wonderful things about belonging to the Honour Cluster is that you can see changes in peoples’ lives as they open up their hearts to God. I can think of one lady in particular who was very reserved and shy when I first met her, but now has opened up and really looks forward to coming to the services. God has really made a difference in her life. Comments I had heard over the years are, “I really feel at home here”, “this is my church”, “I feel valued and cared for”.

“When we know what we are doing is making a difference to peoples’ lives it is really special.” Then, of course, we have other events during the year such as our annual Songs of Praise afternoon in October, concerts and, not to be missed, are the Holidays at Home where we have such fun and

laughter, with quizzes and games, arts and crafts, “drama”, singing and, of course, wonderful food. I have been involved in five Holidays at Home now and, to be honest, although it is a lot of hard work, I thoroughly enjoy every minute of it. To see the happiness on peoples’ faces as they enjoy having fun together gives me just as much pleasure as it does them.

“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” Thich Nhat Hanh

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Life as a work-from-home mom is exciting. You'll never know when you'll be called to wipe bottoms and snot, clean pee off the floor, coerced into herding a group of 60 feral kids (shepherds, you ain't seen nothing yet until you've replaced your sheep with kids), dress your child in fluorescent tutus and leg warmers for her school's 1980s themed party etc. You know those things you promise yourself you'll never do when you have kids?

Me: Go and watch TV.Lil L: No! I don't want to.Me: Mommy needs to send an email to a customer. TURN ON THE TV!Lil L: Noooooooo.Me: Ok, let's cut a deal. If you watch TV for an hour, I'll buy you a bag of sweeties.Lil L (going in for the kill): How about 2 bags of sweeties and I watch quietly?

06:50 Lil L woke me up wanting to discuss a dire issue with her girlfriends in school. I heard the first bit - "my friend gave me the thumbs down and I was sooooo upset". I was sure I was listening but it sounded more like blah blah and then blah blah blah and she blah blah blah.....

07:15 Lil L declared that she's dying of starvation and would expire on the spot if food wasn't given immediately. Kicked hubby out of bed to tend to HIS child's needs.

07:45 Scrolled through my inbox and sent a few quick replies. Let's check out the blog. Oooooh.... more comments. I LOOOOVE comments! Yippeee.... 2 more likes on Facebook. I'm popular!!

08:15 ACKKK! I'm late! I'm late. I raced through the house screaming at Lil L to change into her 1980s costume. It's school's centennial celebration. What? Leg warmers? Where do these go? Egads, I've got to put on my sunglasses. Her outfit looks so ... bright. My child looks like a reincarnation of the young Madonna (no, I'm not talking about Jesus' mother)! "Mom, who's Madonna?""She's a singer". "Can you sing one of her songs?" "Like a viiirrgiiin, touched for the very first time". "Mom, what's a virgin?" "The way you'll be for a long time".08:45 What??! Is it almost 9? I’m late. I’m sooo late. I don’t have time to brush my hair. I hope I don’t scare anyone looking like Frankenstein’s bride. No! What am I doing? No negative thoughts. Ommm ommm.... Channel Cindy Crawford. She’s got big hair. Grabbed Lil L’s hand and dragged her half running down the street to her friend’s house for a quick photo shoot.

09:00 Whew! That was a close call. Made it before the school bell went off. I felt instantly better seeing other frazzled moms.

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10:20 Met a friend at a local cafe to catch up and exchange ideas. I’ve almost forgotten what it’s like to socialize outside of children’s activities.

12:00 Pounding away on the laptop checking my inbox. No time to dillydally, got to get dinner sorted now and apartment tidied up. We’ve got guests tonight.

13:15 Raced back to school and feeling all sweaty in my Isabel Marant woollen Lexy jacket. Awww... all the kids and staff are dressed in their costumes. How cute is that? Hang on a minute, is that our local GP? I’d better stop gawping and find Lil L before the procession starts. Whaddaya know...the police are here to escort the kids too.

14:00 A quick wave goodbye to Lil L and her friends before running back home to work. I feel like I’ve ran a couple of marathons. I’m a woman. Hear me roar...AND... multi-task.

15:15 Managed to ship a last minute order at the post office. I’m late! Here we go again, my third mad dash back to the school. I’ve got hair plastered all over my face. I do NOT look like Frankenstein’s bride. No NO! That’s not an affirmation. I look like Cindy Crawford. Oh whatever. I’m late.

15:30 What happened to the kids?! They’re hopping around like mad monkeys. A mom quickly explains that they were all given a slice of cake. I think that’s what she said because the disco music in the background drowned out everything including my thoughts.

16:30 Tiphaine and I successfully herd our kids out of the playground and into my apartment for dinner. The two mommies caught up while the kids are chucked into the bedroom so that we can have some peace and quiet.

17:00 Time to get dinner ready. The animals...I mean kids are starting to gnaw at the sofa and toys.

19:30 Hubby emerged from our front door looking bewildered by the noise and stampede.

20:00 A quick bath and bedtime for Lil L.

20:30 Hubby managed to snare a copy of the latest Narnia DVD from the library. Yay! For the life of me, I can’t understand why hubby likes to watch scary movies. Why pay to scare yourself ? Just spend the night at a cemetery or a haunted house.

23:00 Time to work on the blog...oh wait, let’s see if Downton Abbey is on ITV player. Crikey, X Factor...

00:00 Maybe I should type something in my blog...

01:00 Maybe I should type something in my blog... zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

My hat’s off to all the moms out there who are doing an amazing job! Motherhood is singularly the most rewarding AND frustrating journey.

(please contact me at thepurseaddict@gmail.com if you’re considering consigning your bags and accessories. Shameless plug!).

Marlene Lee

A suburban mother’s role is to deliver children obstetrically once, and by car forever after.

~ Peter De Vries

Having immigrated to the UK from New Zealand, Marlene mixes her talents as a writer and photographer with her entrepreneurial skills and love of travel and fashion to work from home and is Mum to a very beautiful five year old.

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When/why did you come to Winchester ?

Sarah: I grew up in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire with my sister Kate and after taking A-Level’s went to university at King Alfred’s (as was) where I gained a BA Hons in music and education. I loved the area so decided to stay, especially after landing a job as flute teacher at Norman Court School, near Salisbury and setting up as a self-employed flute specialist/teacher. I have been doing this since 1999.

Simon: I grew up in Northampton with my sister Judith, and came to Winchester 3 years ago after meeting Sarah and excepting a job in the area. I am a qualified youth worker and have worked with young people for 15 years. In January I started a new role as a Training and Development Manager for a youth organization that works across Hampshire and Isle of Wight. When not working with young people my passion is football and I regularly attend England’s home internationals at Wembley.

How long have you been coming to WBC?

Sarah: I have always felt at home at WBC as it’s really all I’ve ever known. It was thanks to Ruth Bennetts that I started coming as

I was asked to play in the band for the church panto, and then invited to Jess Marshall’s dedication – which was where I felt the Holy Spirit for the first time. It was after that, in 2004, that I attended the Alpha Course and 2 years later got baptised. Si and I also got married at WinBap on 5th September 2009 so the church has played a big role in my life!

Si: I started regularly coming to WinBap when I moved to the area as it was Sarah’s home church. I was brought up going to a Baptist church as my Dad was a Baptist Minister in Northampton.

When was Eva born?

Sarah: Eva was born on October 17th 2010 at Hampshire County Hospital. Life has been turned upside down since her arrival but she is our total pride and joy! We feel incredibly blessed to have such a wonderful little girl and we love spending time with her, especially now that I have only gone back to teaching part-time. Luckily, Eva loves music so when teaching at home I can often hear her singing or saying ‘toot toot’ in the background!

Are you in a house group/prayer triplet?

Sarah: We have attended the Chandlers Ford house group but due to work commitments and now Eva, we have really struggled to attend regularly unfortunately. I do meet with Mari Clifton and Clare Smith as a prayer triplet. They are so supportive and I have really benefitted from their prayers and fellowship over the years.

Si: I am hoping to start meeting up with a colleague to become prayer partners. I have found it difficult to become part of a group due to work and family commitments and so don’t feel like I know many people at church, although we are coming more regularly to the morning service with Eva which is certainly helping. We really enjoyed House Group and hope to attend more regularly at some point in the future.

interview by mari clifton28

Over the past 30 years it has been a privilege to know Lois and Trevor Gray. So it is with much sadness but mingled with gladness that Lois has gone to be with her Lord.Having come to the Church in 1981 Lois joined the then Women’s Evening Circle which was held once a fortnight on a Tuesday evening. She welcomed the opportunity to be a

Committee member and her input was invaluable. We appreciated her piano playing for the devotional part of the Meeting.

In 1989 Lois came along to the Afternoon Women’s Meeting where she once again found she was needed to play the piano. Se helped by leading meetings and taking part on the Committee. The ladies all enjoyed the welcome invitation, that was given to have the summer tea in their lovely garden where most times the sun shone for us, it was very pleasant. Trevor also took on the task of transporting some of our

members to and from the Meeting, for which they were very grateful.

Our most enduring memory will be Lois’ quiet gentleness. She was a kind and thoughtful person who contributed a great deal to what-ever was happening at the time.

Thank you Lois for being you, we shall miss you very much.

Jean Davis

I have thought long and hard about what to write as an article about my baptism and have struggled to come up with something I hadn’t already said in my testimony. So, if you weren’t there on January 29th then please feel free to listen to my testimony which has been uploaded onto the church website. All I can really say in addition is that it was a wonderful day and I felt very blessed to be surrounded by family and friends on such a special occasion and one that has been a long time coming!! I would just encourage others to stop thinking they are not good enough, young enough, old enough, brave enough to be baptised and to simply be open to what God is telling you and asking of you. His timing and will are always perfect! The words below are the lyrics of the song that my daughter,

Rachel, sang in the service and I think they sum up, far better than I ever could, why I wanted to get baptised :

My Heart is filled with thankfulness to Him who bore my pain,Who plumbed the depths of my disgrace and gave me life again.Who crushed my curse of sinfulness and clothed me in His light And wrote His law of righteousness with power upon my heart.

My heart is filled with thankfulness to Him who walks beside,Who floods my weaknesses with strength and causes fears to fly.Whose every promise is enough for every step I take,Sustaining me with arms of love and crowning me with grace.

My heart is filled with thankfulness to Him who reigns above,Whose wisdom is my perfect peace, whose every thought is love.For every day I have on earth is given by the King,So I will give my life, my all, to love and follow Him.

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“All things bright and beautiful.......Th e Lord God made them all”

“Bringing the outside inside” or “Saying it with fl owers”. We hear all these phrases, but it takes eff ort to put them into practice.

I think that most people enjoy fl owers when they are gracing a celebration. Is not Sunday worship a celebration for Him? Th e other end of the line is that fl owers are taken to the sick, sad or lonely after evening service or given to people who have had a particular happy event. I can remember taking a bunch to a new couple in the area who had just had a baby – What a welcome that was for them, knowing that the Church was thinking of them especially.

“Oh,” I hear you say, “ It’s all right for you, but I cannot arrange fl owers.” No one has to copy you, me or anyone. You make your own arrangement. As long as fl owers are fresh and also like thewarmth of indoors, they are fi ne just placed in a vase. When starting out, the rule of thumb for balance is that the container should be at least half the height of the fl ower stems, with a few stems just a little longer. Adding a little foliage makes it more natural and interesting.

When you are comfortable with these ideas you can graduate to using “Oasis”, i.e. blocks of special green foam which soaks up water in one minute. Th e sky is the limit, but it is best to have a little tuition in using this medium.

Th anks are due to Lesley for all her help and skills in the past, but now the Church is needing another person to organise the rota and that person does not necessarily have to be a fl ower arranger. But, for others, please give it a go at fl ower arranging in Church. Th ere are quite a few people who arrange fl owers already, but there are still several spaces left on the rota.

For more information, speak to or phone Judy Marshall - 01962 868770Many hands make light work! Liz Tipple

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Us self confessed, very senior, laid back,happy clappy members of Winchester Baptist Churches “Real Life” cluster probably do not 100% conform to the guidelines originally set out for clusters or small groups? We were initially formed almost three years prior to the present cluster initiative, primarily to meet the social needs of members and non church members who had retired from full-time employment. As a group, we unashamedly wanted to pursue our interests of walking, talking, eating , drinking with a smile on our old faces. We also wish to cast aside the pressures of modern day life which effects us all, even in old age. Not an easy task, even for people who have “been there, done it, got the tee-shirt and also the video”!! As their leader, I have often queried with our “CLOTS” if they really considered that we meet the criteria regarding the aims of “clustering”? Were we considered to be a little “off the wall”? On every occasion, I have received reassurances that what we are doing was very much “Real Life” related. We have always endeavoured to be honest with ourselves when it came to the question of “are we truly a mission orientated cluster when out in the community”? To confirm this, I have been able to relate various stories where , without hesitation, members of our cluster have been able to speak freely of their faith to members of the public. Not particularly earth shattering stuff but, enough to ensure that we were flying the Christian flag. These instances have never been set up or orchestrated. They have purely been brought about due to the fact that the public have witnessed a happy, maybe slightly eccentric bunch

of walkers , thoroughly enjoying life in their old age. Some of our cluster have been particularly successful regarding “outreach” when we have been in our “third place”. Elder Andy would have been proud of us.I said previously, that we consider that we have done “our bit”regarding our Christian stewardship but, we know in our hearts this is not strictly true. Even in the Autumn and Winter of our lives, we know that this is a never ending journey through life until we meet our maker. The majority of our cluster members are still actively involved with the many activities of the “Honour” cluster. Here it is a case of the reasonable able/active seniors entertaining and assisting with the needs of the less able senior citizens of Winchester. Almost without exception, we would all qualify to attend the various organised functions as guests in our own right. You will see us doing welcome and stewarding duties, serving on numerous after church coffee rosters, visiting house bound elderly, providing transport and we even

provide the Crèche Leader and a number of the helpers. Although these are rather mundane tasks,

they are still within our capabilities.We have always traded under the acronym of “CLOWNS” (Clapped Out Walking Nuts) but I often think just what would our church do without us “ clapped out winkles”? Give it a little thought when you have a spare minute or two. As a matter of interest, when Melissa approach me to write this article, I began to wonder just how long members of the cluster had actually served the LORD in their lifetimes? Consequently, I carried out a very quick email poll and came up with some rather enlightening results. We have a total of eleven fairly regular attending members who very readily supplied me with the following information. The total number of years that this lovely faithfully group of “crack-pot” Christians have served the LORD came to a staggering 524 years or an average of 47 years per member. The total number of years that ten members of this group have faithfully served the LORD at City Road /Harestock/ NWCC amounts to 231 years or an average 23 years per member. These figures would have been more impressive if Malcolm and Naomi Vaux had not decided to

depart to pastures new in Cardiff. They were regular members of our cluster and we genuinely miss their presence and hospitality.

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However, we are very honoured to have as one of our number someone who is not a Baptist, past or present. We have a self confessed “cradle Catholic” lady who makes the weekly trip on a No I bus from Southampton to sample “Trolley Dollies” coffee and bickies in the HQ mess-room. All cluster members have “nicknames” and our brave traveller rejoices under the name of “Blue Bus Babe”. I will not bore readers with the other names we have as individuals but, if you are interested, I am sure that most would be very willing to participate in a little outreach and divulge their name and explain the origins. I can assure readers that all will make fairly surprising/interesting listening. In light of these published figures, do you think that I would be excommunicated if I were to submit a proposal on the next church meeting agenda, that we should all be granted a minimum twelve month sabbatical? Wishful thinking me thinks?I know for a fact that there are a number of the present church members, if they were not manfully employed raising taxes for our government and to ensure that our pensions are secure, would willingly join us regularly on our Friday forays. We meet at 0945 hours at our HQ (23 Woodgreen Road, Harestock) and fuel up on coffee and other naughties. There is also general chat about anything and everything that is topical or relevant. We either walk locally, sometimes use the local transport (with our free bus passes) or make good use of member’s cars to transport us in style to the start point of our walk. Every member will have received an email from Red Leader giving details of the planned route

and most importantly, the café, hotel,pub or restaurant that has been selected as being suitable to accommodate a rowdy bunch of “happy clappy Christians”. We do tend to be noticed on occasion but, this also allows us the opportunity to fraternise with the natives. Perhaps it is the haloes that give the game away? However, suitably refreshed, we then usually return by whatever method is on hand to HQ for afternoon tea and cake. If climatic conditions prevent us walking we will drink coffee and discus deep theological issues until it is time participate in a well earned lunch. Sometimes this meal will be at HQ or sometimes at a local hostelry. Our walks are very leisurely and vary in distance. I have no record of us exceeding seven miles in recent years and the average is somewhere in the region four miles. To sum up our activities, we are primarily a walking group with a tendency to err towards a few of life’s little luxuries. However, time is rapidly catching up with us all and the emphasis is very gradually moving towards the more social aspects of life. Social events have always been an integral part of our cluster activity and our annual Christmas Lunch in December at Whinwhistle Fisheries, was something to die for. However, do not panic, because a number of us have recently attended a free medical MOT at local surgeries and have all passed with an “oil change”!!As you would possibly predict, our calorie counts were sometimes considered to be a little on the “high” side but not considered to be at a dangerous levels. Perhaps a few less chips, sugar. salt or even saying NO to that mouth watering pudding that usually costs as much as the main course

meal deal? I can see myself being demoted to “tail-end Charlie” if I continue down this particular track, so will bring this report to a rapid close. Rapid is not a word normally associated with our walks because we believe in observing nature in its many forms and stop frequently to view or photograph Hampshire’s beautiful scenery. Our chosen charity is “Mission Aviation Fellowship” because of Red Leader and Wingman’s life long aviation interests. We make optional donations to what we call the “Fuel Fund” instead of paying for the coffee,tea, bickies and cake that we consume in rather large amounts on occasions. My remit was to submit an article relating to “the joy of living” which was a bit of a challenge for someone who has the reputation of being “grumpy”. However, I trust that this brief insight of our general activities will titillate one or two fancies and possibly an enquiry or two?

Roger, Over and Out.

Tony Mundy (Red Leader)

(Information regarding “Real Life” can be found on the Cluster Leaflet)

The fine art of Life is to make another Soul vibrate with a song of joy.

edwin liebfreed

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You will no doubt be aware that WBC financially supports three missionary couples who work in Lesotho, DR Congo and the Middle East, as well as a Missionary partner working for the Baptist Missionary Society (BMS).The church has recently pledged significant funding to support a number of our own congregation in missional activities in Russia, Argentina, Nepal and Africa. In addition, each year we make donations to a number of charities and Christian workers, both local and further afield, which have particular significance for us. Donations will only be considered for inclusion in the Missions budget following a written proposal from a church member giving information about the organisation/person and the reason for the request. There would normally need to be a direct link with WBC or the remit of the organisation would need to fit with the WBC mission statement. We expect that every organisation/person supported through the donations budgetwould have some direct input in a Sunday service at least once every three years in order to continueto receive funding, and that the member who puts forward the proposal would undertake a

Mission Action Group Board display (at the back of the church) periodically. Proposals for donations from the 2012/13 budget should be submitted to the Mission Action Group (led by Jo Meharg) by the end of February. Full details of this policy are available electronically or on paper from the church office. Please note that organisations will remain in the Missions budget for a maximum of three years before a further proposal is required. At this time of year, most of us are thinking about what we would like to be doing in the summer. The church is keen to encourage people of all ages to volunteer for short term service, whether a few weeks or for a longer period in a gap year. All the opportunities are about extending the Kingdom, whether the emphasis is on practical service, or more explicitly evangelistic. There are lots of opportunities advertised at HYPERLINK “http:// www

. . christianvocations . org” www .

christianvocations . org

To confirm our support for those who go, funding is availabledepending on the duration and whether in the UK or overseas. This funding will not meet the full cost of your service as a volunteer so you will be expected to raise funds yourself. Further

information can be found in the leaflet Short Term Mission Matters available at the back of the Church next to the Mission board. The Mission Action Group is happy to offer advice and support.

Currently all of the organisations listed below will be included in the 2012/13 Mission budget:

The Olive BranchBoaz TrustSouthern Baptist Association Church of the YearWinchester Churches Housing GroupWinchester Night ShelterTrinity Centre WinchesterBarnabas FundThe Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Scripture Readers Association (SASRA)ProspectsChristians Against Poverty (CAP)Ian Thomson (Bringing good News) Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF)Bible SocietyBasics BankStreet Pastors

Mark Cole34

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Another step closer… to Lesotho.Since writing in the December/ January magazine we have had our official first stage interview with 3 representatives from African Inland Mission (AIM).

On the evening of Friday 13 January, Steve Lancaster, the Southern Area Director of AIM, together with Ian & Rosemary Pitt, ex- AIM missionaries and current trustees of AIM interviewed us both for over 3 hours! Asking us many questions including, how we became Christians, how we were witnessing in our daily lives, what we thought we would miss the most whilst out in Lesotho, right through to how we intended to cope working with August!!

Barry was conscious that he had not had an interview for over eighteen years, yet we both felt very relaxed on the day and during the time either side of the interview. We very much felt that God was in control of all that was going on and that if it was His will we would successfully pass this stage before moving onto the final interview before the Board of Trustees.

The following week we received an e-mail stating that those interviewing us had “no hesitation in recommending that we proceed to the final interview stage”. This, coupled with the sense of peace that we had was a fantastic confirmation to us that we were following God’s plan for our lives at this present time.

Each day brings different emotions, some filled with great excitement & eagerness to learn what God has in store for us, others with a sense of loss as we are frequently reminded of the good friends, family & church we will be leaving behind. But in all of this we are continually aware of how God is in control and moving us along at a pace that we can cope with!

So once again thank you all for your continued support on this journey. Please pray that we will continue to be guided by God as we make major decisions about Barry’s business in the coming months and that our final interview and presentation to AIM in Nottingham on 19 March goes well.

God Bless.

Barry & Heather.

Footsteps - a discipleship course

The Bible- are you challenged by it? Do you struggle to find time to think topics through? What about ‘Church’? – what is it and why do we ‘do it’ this way?And what about Faith, Salvation, Creation, Leadership, Worship, Justice, Mission.......

All these topics and many others are addressed on a Saturday, once a month, from September through to June on a discipleship course called ‘Footsteps’, held at Thatcham Baptist Church. Whether a new, or not so new Christian, if you want to dig a bit deeper in your Christian thinking and belief this could be the course for you. You join up with other Christians from a variety of Baptist churches across the south to listen to speakers who have lived what they speak about. Mind you, it’s not all listening. Often we break into groups to discuss the ‘What would you do..?’ questions, and feeding back to the ‘class’. The variety of ‘answers’ is always thought provoking!

My name is John Revans. About two years ago Gareth Bartlett, who was attending the course, suggested I might like to do the same. I started in Sept 2011. I have found the Speakers interesting and their variety of experience, personality and teaching style ensures there is something for everyone to engage with. There are five sessions in a day, 45mins each, which means the sessions are short and ‘punchy’. Sometimes the sessions run together so there is more time to discuss things, but if not, lunch time is always the place to set ideas straight!

This course has given me a broad sweep across the many subjects, often covering both historical and contemporary issues- if you are looking for an in depth study course on a few subjects, I would suggest this is not the course for you. That said, the speakers will recommend particular books if you want to take their topic on further. So it’s really up to you, and the time you have available to you. (There’s even the chance to write an essay or two if you want to....)

If you are interested in doing the course, or just want to chat it through, you can talk to me, Gareth Bartlett, Martyn Davie or Carol Bailey- all past participants.

John Revans

Why use flags in worshipThey’re there up the front week in and week out. No, not speakers and singers but flags. There is no doubt, when they’re used they fill the church with a joyful array of colours, but is there a meaning behind their myriad of colours or is it a style choice as to which flag you wave? We asked Trish Burberry and Jill Purkiss to unveil the mystery behind the colours the flags bear and share a little as to why they find flags useful in worship.

AND WHAT DO THEY MEAN?

Jill: “There are a number of reasons for using flags in worship. Perhaps the most obvious is when the

waving of a flag is an expression of exuberant, joyful praise and most of the colours can be used in this way.

“When I use flags, it tends to be in the prophetic sense – to interpret the words being spoken or sung, or to show a particular aspect or make a point through the use of colour and movement, to emphasise what God is saying to us or to speak to Him. Also to encourage the congregation in praise or spiritual warfare. I started using flags as an extension of my worship – a bit like lifting up my hands only more so – and it developed from there. I attended workshops run by Lindy Hill at the Winchester Vineyard and learned some techniques to use as ways of expressing words through movement. I also joined Arts Ecclesia for a time – although that was more to do with group dance than using flags. I love the idea of expressive dancing in worship. I do believe we can and should use our whole beings – body, mind and spirit – in worship: however I don’t have the shape, balance or energy to dance as I would wish, so I use flags instead!

“I would love more people to use the flags. There is often space at the back, especially during evening services, which can be used while you are getting used to it. It may be best to avoid using the larger flags in the rows as you could be making it more difficult for those behind you to see the screen, not to mention the danger of waving around a long stick in close proximity to other people: the smaller children’s flags are better suited to this.

“So come on; have a go. If you feel moved to use a flag just come and grab one. What you look like doesn’t matter, it’s your obedience and what you express from your heart that touches the heart of God.”

Trish: “Before I started coming to WBC I had always participated in the music in previous

church life. On arriving at WBC I was too ill to do this and have only just recently started to play the organ again so because I couldn’t play I started to use the flags as an extension to my worship. It was the children themselves who inspired me to make the first lot of flags for COGS. The highlight of my involvement was when God directed me to send the first batch made to Goma, Africa with Fenella. This left me wondering who was going to help make the replacement batch because it’s no mean feat to source flag material, sticks and threads to make thirty flags, but God wonderfully provided help through a friend from another church and really blessed me and COGS.

“I just love movement in worship via dance, flags, ribbons. At the Jackie Pullinger conference in Bournemouth earlier this year I saw for the first time a young man break dancing to a worship song – it was quite amazing.

“I just love using large sweeping movements to most of the songs throughout the service rather than some set routine or reason. I find freedom in worship this way and experience God’s presence on me. However only the WBC evening service lends itself to this which I cannot come to at the moment. I’m not really an upfront person when it comes to worship with flags although I would do something upfront if it helped the children progress in this form of worship. Mainly my use of flags is not to aid or inspire other people to worship – it’s just between me and God and happens to be in a public place. I praise God that He has used me to encourage the children to use the small flags and of course anyone of any age can have a go – and may be pleasantly surprised at what happens as I was!

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Why use flags in worshipThey’re there up the front week in and week out. No, not speakers and singers but flags. There is no doubt, when they’re used they fill the church with a joyful array of colours, but is there a meaning behind their myriad of colours or is it a style choice as to which flag you wave? We asked Trish Burberry and Jill Purkiss to unveil the mystery behind the colours the flags bear and share a little as to why they find flags useful in worship.

AND WHAT DO THEY MEAN?

Jill: “There are a number of reasons for using flags in worship. Perhaps the most obvious is when the

waving of a flag is an expression of exuberant, joyful praise and most of the colours can be used in this way.

“When I use flags, it tends to be in the prophetic sense – to interpret the words being spoken or sung, or to show a particular aspect or make a point through the use of colour and movement, to emphasise what God is saying to us or to speak to Him. Also to encourage the congregation in praise or spiritual warfare. I started using flags as an extension of my worship – a bit like lifting up my hands only more so – and it developed from there. I attended workshops run by Lindy Hill at the Winchester Vineyard and learned some techniques to use as ways of expressing words through movement. I also joined Arts Ecclesia for a time – although that was more to do with group dance than using flags. I love the idea of expressive dancing in worship. I do believe we can and should use our whole beings – body, mind and spirit – in worship: however I don’t have the shape, balance or energy to dance as I would wish, so I use flags instead!

“I would love more people to use the flags. There is often space at the back, especially during evening services, which can be used while you are getting used to it. It may be best to avoid using the larger flags in the rows as you could be making it more difficult for those behind you to see the screen, not to mention the danger of waving around a long stick in close proximity to other people: the smaller children’s flags are better suited to this.

“So come on; have a go. If you feel moved to use a flag just come and grab one. What you look like doesn’t matter, it’s your obedience and what you express from your heart that touches the heart of God.”

Trish: “Before I started coming to WBC I had always participated in the music in previous

church life. On arriving at WBC I was too ill to do this and have only just recently started to play the organ again so because I couldn’t play I started to use the flags as an extension to my worship. It was the children themselves who inspired me to make the first lot of flags for COGS. The highlight of my involvement was when God directed me to send the first batch made to Goma, Africa with Fenella. This left me wondering who was going to help make the replacement batch because it’s no mean feat to source flag material, sticks and threads to make thirty flags, but God wonderfully provided help through a friend from another church and really blessed me and COGS.

“I just love movement in worship via dance, flags, ribbons. At the Jackie Pullinger conference in Bournemouth earlier this year I saw for the first time a young man break dancing to a worship song – it was quite amazing.

“I just love using large sweeping movements to most of the songs throughout the service rather than some set routine or reason. I find freedom in worship this way and experience God’s presence on me. However only the WBC evening service lends itself to this which I cannot come to at the moment. I’m not really an upfront person when it comes to worship with flags although I would do something upfront if it helped the children progress in this form of worship. Mainly my use of flags is not to aid or inspire other people to worship – it’s just between me and God and happens to be in a public place. I praise God that He has used me to encourage the children to use the small flags and of course anyone of any age can have a go – and may be pleasantly surprised at what happens as I was!

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ReasonsTO USE FLAGS

To bestow honour – To declare a name of God or an aspect of His character. As we wave the flag, we minister in love to our King and proclaim the magnificence of who He is.

To communicate – As a particular flag is raised, the prayer behind it speaks to our Lord in the aspect of His character depicted in the flag, asking Him to reveal Himself and related matters of His heart to us. For example, if a flag exalts Him as Jehovah Roi (The Lord Our Shepherd), we are asking to speak to Him as the One who leads, protects and comforts us. Perhaps our hearts are crying out to him to bring us to that place of restoration, or to show us specific direction for a situation. We ask, then await His response.

To signal God’s presence – Lifting flags in worship follows the action of Moses as he lifted his rod (a shepherd’s staff, a spiritual type of symbol of a flag) as a visible sign of God’s presence, power and authority over the armies of Israel.

To declare our allegiance – As we wave flags in worship, we admit our loyalty as members of our Lord’s army in the presence of people on earth and before powers and principalities in the heavens.

To rally the troops – We know our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, powers and spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6). Raising a flag stirs unity and loyalty in the King’s army, gathers soldiers together for strategy

and strengthens commitment to victory.

To direct warfare and praise – Early records show that ancient Egyptian soldiers looked to flags (ribbons or fabric tied to poles) to determine the direction of the wind, then shot their arrows accordingly to reach their target. In terms of spiritual warfare, a particular flag might be flown to say in the physical realm what is happening in the spiritual: it relates the direction of the “wind” of the Holy Spirit on a particular day.

To put the enemy to flight – Isaiah 59:19 tells us, “…When the enemy comes in, like a flood the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him.” Flags are God-given, God anointed, Word-based standards that display His truth. Truth and light cause the enemy to flee. “Nuwc” is a Hebrew word for “standard” which means “to cause to flee away, to lift up standard.”

Some other Hebrew words used in the Old Testament for flags and banners (according to Strongs Hebrew Dictionary):DEGEL to be conspicuousNACE a signalOWTH a signalWe are pointing people to Jesus in our praise and worship.

Growing Women Leaders - 7 Deadly Sins Programme -

Spaces available for individual days

Shirley Warren Action Church, Southampton

11th February: 3rd Deadly Sin - Inadequate Personal Vision (Develop and maintain a God-inspired vision) There are also spaces on 10th March, 28th April, 16th June and 7th July. Please get in touch with me if you need any more information or otherwise follow this link:http://nextleadership . org/ Every blessingJacky

“Joy is the holy fire that keeps our purpose warm and our intelligence aglow”Helen Keller

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Whats on.... Sunday

10am - Tea & coffee provided afterwards Creche - up to 3 yrs Sparklers - 3 to Yr R All Stars - Yr 1 - 3 Trailblazers - Yr 4 - 6 FRESH - Yr 7 upwards

6.30pm - Tea and coffee provided afterwards

Monday

Re:store - 10am creche provided Helen Revans

Tuesday

2.15pm - Tuesday Afternoon Women’s Fellowship alternate weeks - Jean Davis 8pm - Church Prayer Meeting (first Tuesday in the month) 8pm - Teg Down Small Group (Favour Cluster) Jo May 8pm - Location Cluster (2nd & 4th) David & Ann Hook 8pm - Sparkford Road Small Group (Favour Cluster) Nick Allenson 8pm - Kings Worthy Small Group (Connect Cluster) Ben Clifton

Wednesday

7-8am - Prayer Meeting in Tweedley Room 8pm - Chandler Ford Small Group (2nd & 4th - Favour Cluster) Carol and David Bailey 8pm - Stanmore Small Group (Favour Cluster) Luke & Jo Meharg

Thursday

1.30pm - Silver Service (1st in the month) David & Hannah Strutt 7.30pm - The Edge (Yrs 9 and above) Becca Baxter 8pm - Badger Farm Small Group (Honour Cluster) Jean Sweetenham

Friday 10am - Friday Fun (2 ¹/2 - 5 year olds) Diana Wills t

PastorRev Ewen Huffman 01962 868770ewen @ winbap . org . uk

Associate Pastor (Youth)Rev Tim Williamson 01962 868770tim @ winbap . org . uk

Mission to SeniorsHannah and David Strutt01962 868770hannahanddavid @ winbap . org . uk

Children’s Ministry WorkerEli Stewart 01962 868770eli @ winbap . org . uk

Associate Youth WorkerBecca Baxter becca @ winbap . org . uk

EldersSheila McAulay 01962 868770Andy Marshall 01962 868770Carol Bailey 01962 858770

SecretaryEd Jackson 01962 868770

TreasurerDavid Hook 01962 868770

Deacons

Small GroupsGareth Bartlett 01962 868770

Wayne Isaac 01962 868770MissionJoanne Meharg 01962868770

Ops ManagerJudy Marshall 01962 686770opsmanager @ winbap . org . uk

Winchester Baptist ChurchSwan Lane

Winchester SO23 7AA01962 868770

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FEBRUARY ‘12SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT

5 6 7 8 9 10

13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23

11

25

26 27 28 29

D A T E S F O R Y O U R D I A R Y

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Silver Service

Friday Fun

Friday Fun

The Edge

The EdgePM Communion Service

AM Communion Service

Re:store -Ladies Group

1 2

Church Prayer Meeting 8pm

MARCH ‘12SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT

27 28 29

4

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Silver Service

Friday Fun

Friday Fun

Friday Fun

The Edge

The Edge

The Edge

PM Communion Service

AM Communion Service Tea and Toys

Re:store -Ladies Group

Re:store -Ladies Group

Church Prayer Meeting 8pm

5 6 7 8 9 10

1st February -Church Meeting

4th February -COGS Film afternoon

8th February -Prayer and Praise

10th February -Edge and Fresh Social

11th February - HOTS training

21st February -Family Pancake Day

25th February -Honour Cluster training

6th March -Prayer and Praise

21st March -Church Meeting

24th March -Family Easter Extravaganza

25th March -Honour Cluster Gospel Concert TBC

30th March -Edge and Fresh Social

3

Re:store -Ladies Group

12

24

30 31

1 2 3

Re:store -Ladies Group

Women’s Tuesday afternoon fellowship.

Women’s Tuesday afternoon fellowship.

4

Women’s Tuesday afternoon fellowship.

Women’s Tuesday afternoon fellowship.

The Edge

The Edge

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