Church notice sheet - 2 August 2009

HandsReadings

9:00am -  Hebrews 4: 14- 5:3 and Mark 1 9-13
11:00am - 1 Corinthians 10: 1-13

Prayer topics this week

For the members of St. John's who are attending 'New Wine' from 2nd – 9th August. For CPAS children's camps taking place all over the summer.

Quiz evening

There will be a Quiz Evening on Saturday 12th September 2009, so mark this date on your calendar. This will be something anyone and everyone can take part in and is suitable for all ages. We will accommodate those in teams and those who want to make up a team; the first-timers and the old hands; the brainy and the barmy!

Food Bank

The next collection is at Asda Walmart on Saturday 29th August. The sheet will be on the desk PLEASE sign up if you can spare an hour. We are likely to be short as it's the holiday season.

Diary Date: Foodbank Quiz on September 4th, details to follow...

Swine flu precautions

First of all, our thanks to those who have commented about swine flu precautions. It is always useful for the PCC to hear the views of church members when we make decisions. At present, we are following advice from the Archbishops of Canterbury and York in applying hand-gel before communion and in ceasing to share a common cup. It seems that a very large number of people are likely to become infected with the swine flu virus this autumn and winter. We don't really want to help spread it. As one sufferer said, "While swine flu might not be the end of the world for you, it may be far worse for someone else, if you pass it on to them."

There are a number of options, which the PCC will consider at its next meeting. We will consider all suggestions made. Our aim is to be responsible, but not to take panic measures.

In view of all the hand-shaking going on in the church generally, it seemed to me that discouraging physical contact during the Peace was a step too far. However, you may have your views on that issue also.

St John's preschool has moved out

We said farewell last Friday to the Preschool which has met at our church for so many years. Preschool was originally opened by St. John's members. However, since then, government intervention, OFSTED and an entirely new curriculum have brought about great changes. We are sure that they will enjoy the facilities at their new child centre in Greenmeadow School.

Gift Aid Declarations

We are bringing all our Gift Aid Declarations up to date using the currently recommended HMRC wording. Thank you so much to all those who have returned their signed forms. 67 have been returned so far leaving 18 outstanding. If you are among the 18 who are yet to return your form, our Treasurer, Andrew, will be delighted to hear from you soon! If you have lost the form Andrew sent you, please have a word with him.

Church Picnic

There will be a picnic in Lydiard Park (weather permitting) after the 11 o'clock service on Sunday 16th August (please note new date). Everyone is welcome. Just bring your own food and drink and we'll all meet together in the large field. The more the merrier. If people want to bring bats and balls etc we could play rounders or something similar. It's a few weeks away but people will be starting to go on holiday, so please put the date in your diary now.

The big sort out

Pre School have now moved out of St. John's and are relocating to Greenmeadow School (calling themselves 'Little Pippins') which is leaving us with a lot of space.

The Churchwardens would therefore like to take this opportunity to re-assign cupboard space - including the old vestry cupboard, have a spring clean (seasons are all over the place these days), sort out both the lofts in the church and generally have a jolly good clear up. That requires your help PLEASE!

Could you please contact Pauline Davis if you are a group leader and would like to put forward your request for particular cupboards. The Churchwardens cannot promise you will get what you request but at least if we have your input into this it will be helpful.

We are planning the 'BIG SORT' on Saturday 15th August starting at 10:00am and your assistance would be appreciated. Can you spare us any time during that day? Lunch will be provided to keep up your strength!

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: 21 August 2009