Church notice sheet - 10 May 2009

HandsReadings

9:00am -  Luke 15:1-7
11:00am - Luke 15: 1-7

Prayer topics this week

For our churchwardens Pauline Davis and Rod Mortimer as they perform this key role within the church.

More Jam

Following on from Jam in the Jungle, Jam in the Desert, Jam in the Ark, and Jam in the Caribbean, we now have Jam in Space.

The story so far: It is the Emperor's birthday, and he is having a birthday bash for all his loyal subjects across the galaxy. There is to be a procession of 100 spaceships, and the Earth has been chosen as one of the planets to send a crew. Unfortunately, the Earth spaceship is manned by Capt Mel Robinson and her crew of three (accompanied by a malfunctioning robot), who all bear a distinct resemblance to Jam Spread.

Halfway through the journey they have to make a fateful decision. Should they go the safe way and arrive just in time for the Emperor's birthday bash. Or should they take a shortcut? The shortcut seems very inviting. They will arrive early and will have lots of time to clean the ship and do a bit of sightseeing. However, the shortcut takes them quite close to a black hole which could suck them in and destroy the ship. What should they do? Should they take the safe way that will definitely get them there or should they go the other way? What would you do?

What else happened yesterday?

We made a model of the entire solar system. We like to think big! We also made a rocket, tested our memories and our powers of observation on The Empire Strikes Back, had a battle of Space Invaders, learnt a lot of wonderful new songs and generally had a great time. A big thank you to everybody who helped.

Another wonderful weekend

Raymond would like to say a few "thank you’s" in the bulletin for those who made last weekend so memorable.

First of all, to those of you who attended the many events of last weekend, either in Bristol or here in Swindon to celebrate his being made Canon. It was wonderful to see so many rows of St. John's members in Bristol Cathedral.

Thanks too to all the wonderful acts who entertained us last week. Clearly Britain may not have that much talent but Swindon certainly does. It was wonderful to see so many younger members of the church getting up on the stage as well.

Thank you too, to Louise and Tim and all the others who helped so much in the preparation of the meal on Saturday evening. You did a lot of hard work, and we all thank you for it.

Thank you finally for the wonderful gifts which you gave me to celebrate the day. Not only many books to stretch the mind, but also a very large quantity of fishing tackle vouchers for lazy days by the river. I had not expected anything like so many vouchers when I received the envelope on Saturday evening. I was bowled over when I opened it. Indeed, when I walked into Hinders fishing tackle shop on Monday they rolled out the red carpet, brought me a chair, and stood over me with a fan. Thank you for such generosity.

Music from Uganda

Coincidentally over the same weekend we had a service in St. John's to celebrate 40 years of the Uganda Bristol link. The Ugandan choir and band were absolutely fantastic. The congregation refused to let them go and they had to do a couple of extra songs. It was a truly magnificent climax to the weekend.

Coincidentally over the same weekend we had a service in St. John's to celebrate 40 years of the Uganda Bristol link. The Ugandan choir and band were absolutely fantastic. The congregation refused to let them go and they had to do a couple of extra songs. It was a truly magnificent climax to the weekend.

The church's response to the recession

The church, the local authority and the business community have had a number of meetings on this subject recently. There is a follow up meeting on Thursday 4th June from 7:30 to 9:30pm in St. Barnabas Church Hall to continue the discussion. All welcome.

Gardening

We are going to plant new shrubs in the corner opposite Morrisons and plan to do the work on Saturday 16th May or 23rd May. We need strong helpers who can do some heavy digging and help with planting. No gardening experience required just strong backs and muscles. If you can help please sign up on the list on the entrance table or contact Janet Gash.

Car Wash

St Andrews Methodist Church, Moredon Road will be a holding a car wash on Saturday 16th May from 2:00pm onwards. The cost is £4.00 which includes a cup of tea while you wait. Proceeds will be shared between Willows Counselling Service and the church funds.

Parish Office

The Parish Office is open on Wednesday and Friday mornings from 9am to 1pm. All items for the bulletin to Wendy in writing first thing on Wednesday please!

Do you buy on line?

We have received our first commission cheque amounting to more than £50! Log on via our website or go directly to http://www.buy.at/StjohnsHW. The church will receive commission from 2% to 12% on anything you purchase.

There are over 100 retailers involved (including M&S, Amazon, John Lewis, Comet) some of which offer exclusive discounts and promotions - and best of all ... there is no extra cost to the purchaser!

Tape Ministry

If you or someone you know would like a recording of the service, please contact Nigel Crowhurst, our Tape Co-ordinator.

Page last updated: 2 February 2011