St John's Leyland Notices & Prayer Diaries

2008-04-11T12:17:00.000-07:00

Cell Meeting Outline w/b Sunday 13th April 2008 - Psalm 65

Welcome
Which season of the year brings out the best in you, and why?

Word
Read Psalm 65 together

Summarise the main teaching points and share anything you found particularly helpful or significant from the Sunday morning address.

List the verbs associated with God in this passage; what do they teach us about God?

This psalm may have been written for a. A Jewish Harvest Festivalb. A Spring celebrationc. Deliverance from drought or famine, or d. A general service celebrating God’s forgiveness ... which verses support these possible origins?

How did the Israelites see their God as being different from other national or tribal gods? (see v.5-8)

What aspect of God is most exciting for you at the moment - God as Creator, Redeemer, Provider?

In what ways can you identify personally with verses 3 & 4?

Worship
Take a moment to discuss what you might praise and thank God for from Psalm 65 (you might like to read it together again)

Take a moment to pray and praise together

You may like to listen meditatively to a suitable worship song or hymn of your choice.

Witness
Do you have any personal contacts you would feel able to invite to the next Christianity Explored Course starting in September? Would you group like to run or host the course (if training and help were given?). If so, let Alistair know.

ST JOHN’S MESSENGER 6th April 2008 4th Sunday of Easter

Welcome to St John's parish church

Prayer is offered at the end of every service and during the distribution in Communion. There will be 2 people at the front of church if you wish them to pray for you

Please remember in your prayers
Geoff Brown Mick Davies Elsie Deacon Eileen Fisher Win Loftus Thelma Thomas

Annual Parish Church Meeting
Next Sunday (20th) at 6.30pm Guest Speaker: Revd Joe Fielder
Sign up today if you wish to stand for PCC, Deanery Synod or Church Warden

Fundraising for Level 2 & 3 Summer Camps
We are delighted that a significant number of our young people have once again signed up to go to one of the Nefyn Christian camps this summer. To assist families who need help with the camp fees we are planning a couple of fundraising events to build up our subsidy fund - details to follow shortly - at one of which we hope to make a trail of 2p pieces right around the hall... so please start saving twopences!

After the success of Peter Noonan’s Cell Group running a Christianity Explored Course, we are now looking for another group who would like to run the next course starting in September.

Could anyone help to clear the communion table after the service?
It only takes about 5 minutes but would be a big help to Barbara and Alistair.
Please see Barbara Wilson if you could serve the church in this way.

VOCATIONS SUNDAY SERVICE 6.30pm Sunday 13th April 2008
St Lawrence, Chorley Speaker: Rev Sam Corley Leader: Sue Champness

“St Irenaeus wrote that ‘the glory of God is a human being fully alive’. Through the dual process of becoming fully ourselves and of becoming more fully Christ-like, the will of God is fulfilled and the glory of God seen. That is what Vocations Sunday is about. You have one life. For God’s sake, and for your own, live it.”

HOPE 2008 Fun Day
Churches Together in Leyland (CTL) are planning an "Open Crowd Festival" in partnership with Fusion Youth & Community as part of Hope 08. The event will be free, family-friendly and open to all.

The aim of the festival is:
To build relationships with locals
To build community and a shared sense of belonging
To bring people together to experience God's Kingdom (as the child within surfaces and the open crowd builds).
To provide an event that is available to even the poorest families by being completely free
To run an event as part of a broader strategy of mission in Leyland in reaching out to the community.
To build unity and relationships between church folk by doing mission together.
To build a growing team of people who will do whatever it takes to see the Kingdom come in Leyland.
To have fun!
We at St John’s have committed ourselves to a biscuit decorating stall which Chris Slater will be organising. However, if you wish to be involved and biscuit decorating ‘is not your thing’ there are plenty of other opportunities to help.
Please contact Malcolm on 01772 696195 or Andy on 01772 457276 if you are able to help in any way

There are additional volunteers required if you wish to help in other ways

PCC 14th April 2008
Please pray for this meeting and for some of the agenda items listed below:
Å Discussion on ethical banking
Å This years Mission Action Plan (including the Hornbuckles and the possibility of starting a new congregation)
Å Easter Mission 2009
Å Leyland Bible Week 2008
ST. JOHN’S SERVICES AND EVENTS

Sun 13th 9.45 Prayer in the Creche room
10.30 Morning Worship
6.30pm Vocations Sunday Service at St Lawrence, Chorley

Mon 14th 7.30pm PCC in the Church Lounge

Wed 16th NO COMMUNION THIS WEEK

Sat 19th 1-5pm Hope 2008 Fun Day at Worden Park

Sun 20th 9.45 Prayer in the Creche room
10.30 All Age Worship
6.30 APCM with Guest Speaker: Rev Joe Fielder

Mon 21st 6pm Level 1 for infant school aged children

Tue 22nd 6.15pm Level 2 for junior school aged children

Wed 23rd NO COMMUNION THIS WEEK
7.15pm Level 3 for high school aged children

Sat 26th 4pm St John’s Birthday Tea & Thanksgiving Service

Sun 27th 9.45 Prayer in the Creche room
10.30 Morning Worship

Cell Outline & Messenger 9th March 2008

2008-03-10T00:25:00.000-07:00

Cell Meeting Outline week beginning Sunday 9th March 2008

Welcome
When have you muttered about something or been indignant?

Word Read Luke 19 v 1-10

Are there any surprises in this supposedly familiar story?
Imagine you are a citizen of Jericho.
Why are you on the street waiting to see Jesus? What do you say when Jesus talks to Zacchaeus? What do you say when Zacchaeus makes his announcement about giving away his money ? What is it like 6 months later?
Imagine the conversation between Jesus and Zacchaeus.
The word save can mean:-rescue, preserve, protect, secure, spare, keep for the future. Which of these meanings do you think Jesus was referring to in v 10?

Worship
Try and put into 1 sentence what Jesus as saviour means for you.
Read Isaiah 43 v 1-13
What picture of a saviour is Isaiah giving to the people? How does this help us to understand Jesus as our saviour? Spend some time in prayer or quiet thanking God for sending Jesus to be our saviour.
Sing or listen to a song or hymn with some reference to Jesus as saviour. e.g. My Jesus my saviour

Witness (this needs quite a bit of time this week)
Who are the lost people Jesus would seek and save today?
How can we convince people that they are lost and need to be saved?
Jesus made a point of ‘eating with sinners.’ Do we have any contact with non-Christians? If so how can we use those times most effectively. If not how could we make some opportunities?
There was a sense of urgency in the way Jesus spoke to Zacchaeus, how can we capture some of that in the way we speak to people today?
Take time to pray for these issues and any of your contacts who are lost and need to hear the good news about Jesus.

ST JOHN’S MESSENGER 9th March 2008 5th Sunday of Lent

Church Web Site: www.stjohnsleyland.co.uk
Vicar: Alistair McHaffie Tel: 621646
Associate Minister: Barbara Wilson Tel: 435340

Welcome to St John's parish church,
If you would like someone to pray for you there will be two people available at the front of church after most services and also during the period of distribution in our Communion services

TODAY’s flowers have been given by June Smith, an ex member of St John’s, in memory of Ron Smith who would have been 70 on 11th March

At 6.30pm on Maundy Thursday (20th March) we will be having a family meal and throughout the meal remembering the events of the first Maundy Thursday. We need some meal organisers – would any of the cell groups like to take this on? If so, let Alistair know as soon as possible.
Please sign up for the meal on the form at the back of church

St John’s Church, Leyland lane, Leyland
Musical Evening
Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt and more
7:30pm Friday 4th April 2008
Refreshments and Retiring collection

Please remember in your prayers
Geoff Brown Mick Davies Elsie Deacon Agnes Duffy Eileen Fisher
Win Loftus Carol Sergeant Thelma Thomas

Articles & Notices for The Messenger
to be sent to Alan Scarff by the Thursday before
to alanandpam@blueyonder.co.uk

The Northern Men's Convention

The Northern Men's Convention 2008 will be taking place on Saturday 10th May at The Armitage Centre, Manchester.
Our theme this year is 'anyone... in every nation' and we are delighted to welcome Vaughan Roberts, Graham Beynon and Justin Mote as our main speakers.

Bookings
Standard Tickets
£18 - Book early via The Good Book Company
Phone
0845 225 0880 from 9am to 5pm Mon-Fri
Post
NMC, The Good Book Company, Elm House, 37 Elm Road, New Malden, Surrey KT3 3HB
Payment
Credit or Debit Card.Cheques payable to 'The Good Book Company'
________________________________

EVERY-Generation ENCOUNTER
Sunday 27 April Preston - Guild Hall
Start 7:30pm - Doors Open 6:45pmFree Admission An offering will be taken
For several years the original encounter experience was inspiring young Christians in Preston, but it soon became apparent that it wasn't just the youth of Preston who wanted to be connected with other churches and worshipping in unity. This is Sunday night: everyone is welcome

ST. JOHN’S SERVICES AND EVENTS

Sun 9th 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room
10.30am Morning Worship

Mon 10th 6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children
7.30pm PCC in the Church Lounge

Tue 11th 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children

Wed 12th 10am Holy Communion
7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Sat 15th 2 – 7pm Nefyn ‘E’ Camp Reunion at St John’s

Sun 16th 9.45 Prayer in the Creche room
10.15 Morning Worship, meeting at St John’s Green (for those who are able) for prayer
and hymn, then proceeding to St John’s for our Palm Sunday service

Mon 17th 12 – 12.30 Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
6pm Level 1 for infant school aged children
7 – 7.30pm Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church

Tue 18th 12 – 12.30 Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
7 – 7.30pm Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
6.15pm Level 2 for junior school aged children

Wed 19th 12 – 12.30 Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
7 – 7.30pm Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
7.15pm Level 3 for high school aged children

Thu 20th 12 – 12.30 Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
6.30pm Maundy Thursday Family Meal

Fri 21st 9.30am Good Friday March of Witness from the Car Park of
South Ribble BC to the URC, Hough Lane where the service will commence at
10.30am
7 – 8pm Holy Week Prayer Week – Good Friday Meditation in Church

Sun 23rd 6am Sunrise Service at Ashurst Beacon
10.30am Family Communion

Cell Outline & Messenger 3rd March 2008

2008-03-02T00:14:00.000-08:00

Cell Meeting Outline week beginning Sunday 2nd March 2008
Luke 18:18-30

Welcome
Can you remember an occasion when you were refused entry into somewhere? If so, describe where and why, and how you reacted.

Worship
Bring with you, if you can, a picture of a baby being held safely in its parent’s arms, to focus on during the worship time.
Read Luke 18: 15-17, then spend time reflecting on what it means to come to God ‘like a little child’.
Make a list together of some of the good things a baby will receive from its parents as it grows.
Pray for one another, that your trust in God’s loving care will grow and that you will be open to receive the good things God wants to give you.
Listen to a song such as ‘O let the Son of God enfold you’ (502) or ‘O Lord, your tenderness’ (511 in Mission Praise)

Word Luke 18:18-30
Share anything you learned or were challenged by during the service on Sunday morning.
The rich man was, of course, right to call Jesus good, but what challenge is implied by Jesus’ response in v19?
Jesus does not contradict the man’s claim in v21, but notice which of the ten commandments are not mentioned in v20 (see Ex 20). Why do you think Jesus told him to sell everything?
Read v22 again and notice Jesus is concerned not with what the man has, but what he does not have. What ‘one thing’ did he lack?
Why is it hard ‘for the rich to enter the kingdom of God’ (v24)?
Do you know any examples you can share – from your own experience or others you have heard or read about – of the truth of what Jesus says in v 29-30?

Witness
Allow a few moments of silence to consider your personal response to this story. Ask God to show you if there are things you are holding onto which keep you from really depending on him.
Pray for your link missionaries, persecuted Christians & others who have left homes or families for the sake of Christ.
Pray for any people you know whose response to Jesus has been similar to the man in this story. Ask God to do the impossible (v27) for them and for many others in our wealthy society.

ST JOHN’S MESSENGER 2nd March 2008 4th Sunday of Lent

Church Web Site: www.stjohnsleyland.co.uk
Vicar: Alistair McHaffie Tel: 621646
Associate Minister: Barbara Wilson Tel: 435340

Welcome to St John's parish church,
If you would like someone to pray for you there will be two people available at the front of church after most services and also during the period of distribution in our Communion services

Please remember in your prayers
Geoff Brown Mick Davies Elsie Deacon Agnes Duffy Eileen Fisher
Win Loftus Carol Sergeant Thelma Thomas

For your Diary
At 6.30pm on Maundy Thursday (20th March) we will be having a family meal and throughout the meal remembering the events of the first Maundy Thursday. We need some meal organisers – would any of the cell groups like to take this on? If so, let Alistair know as soon as possible. You will be asked to sign up for the meal shortly.

St John’s Leyland Musical Evening
Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt and more
Friday 4th April 2008 7:30pm
Refreshments & Retiring collection

Articles & Notices for The Messenger
to be sent to Alan Scarff by the Thursday before to alanandpam@blueyonder.co.uk

ST. JOHN’S SERVICES AND EVENTS

Sun 2nd Mar 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room
10.30am Holy Communion

Mon 3rd 6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children

Tue 4th 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children
8pm Planning Group for new congregation at the vicarage

Wed 5th 10am Holy Communion
7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Sun 9th 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room
10.30am Morning Worship

Mon 10th 6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children
7.30pm PCC in the Church Lounge

Tue 11th 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children

Wed 12th 10am Holy Communion
7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Sat 15th 2 – 7pm Nefyn ‘E’ Camp Reunion at St John’s

Sun 16th 9.45 Prayer in the Creche room
10.15 Morning Worship, meeting at St John’s Green (for those who are
able) for prayer and hymn, then proceeding to St John’s for our
Palm Sunday service

Mon 17th 12 – 12.30 Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
6pm Level 1 for infant school aged children
7 – 7.30pm Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church

Tue 18th 12 – 12.30 Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
7 – 7.30pm Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
6.15pm Level 2 for junior school aged children

Wed 19th 12 – 12.30 Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
7 – 7.30pm Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
7.15pm Level 3 for high school aged children

Thu 20th 12 – 12.30 Holy Week Prayer Week – Prayer in Church
6.30pm Maundy Thursday Family Meal

Fri 21st 9.30am Good Friday March of Witness from the Car Park of
South Ribble BC to St Mary’s where the service will
commence at 10.30am
7 – 8pm Holy Week Prayer Week – Good Friday Meditation
in Church

Sun 23rd 6am Sunrise Service at Ashurst Beacon
10.30am Family Communion

The Northern Men's Convention

The Northern Men's Convention 2008 will be taking place on Saturday 10th May at The Armitage Centre, Manchester.
Our theme this year is 'anyone... in every nation' and we are delighted to welcome Vaughan Roberts, Graham Beynon and Justin Mote as our main speakers.
Bookings
Standard Tickets
£18 - Book early via The Good Book Company
Phone
0845 225 0880 from 9am to 5pm Mon-Fri
Post
NMC, The Good Book Company, Elm House, 37 Elm Road, New Malden, Surrey KT3 3HB
Payment
Credit or Debit Card.Cheques payable to 'The Good Book Company'

Cell Outline & Notices 17th February 2008

2008-02-15T03:19:00.000-08:00

Cell Meeting Outline week beginning Sunday 17^th February 2008

2 Corinthians 9:6-15

Welcome

What do you think are the best and worst aspects of gardening?

Word

Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
What were the main points emphasised by David in Sunday’s sermon?
Go through the passage verse by verse and list as many principles as you can about Christian giving
What prevents you putting these principles into practice, and how might you overcome these obstacles?
In v.8-11 is Paul expecting our giving to result in increased financial gain for us?
Do you find it easier to give your time or your money to God?
Where have you seen the greatest return on time or money invested in God for others?
Have you made financial plans for your estate, and does giving for the sake of the gospel feature in them? Do you think it should?

Worship

Read about God’s ‘indescribable gift’ in Philippians 2:5-11 and share with each other what we can learn about God’s giving of Jesus to us.
List your thoughts and then turn them into prayers of worship and thanks
Listen to, or sing, a worship song/hymn that expresses what Jesus has done for us (such as, “He came not to be served”, “He was pierced for our transgressions”, “Thou who wast rich beyond all splendour”, etc.)

Witness

What commitment for change in the area of giving do you think you need most to make?
Pray about what has challenged you most in this teaching series on giving.
Pray for the financial needs of any missionaries/missionary organisations you support.

ST JOHN’S MESSENGER 17^h February 2008

2^nd Sunday of Lent

Welcome to St John's parish church,

If you would like someone to pray for you there will be two people available at the front of church after most services and also during the period of distribution in our Communion services

Doug Harris of the Reachout Trust on the Jehovah’s Witnesses.

St John’s Church 7.30pm Thu 21^st Feb

Churches Together in Leyland Lent Meetings 2008

This year’s Lent meetings will be held in the Methodist School Hall, Canberra Road

7.15 for 7.30pm, till 9pm

Come to listen, pray and discuss some of the key issues affecting our community

Thu 14^th Feb ‘Migrant Workers’

Thu 21^st Feb ‘Key Project (Youth)’

Thu 28^th Feb ‘SLEAP (Homelessness)’

Thu 6^th Mar ‘Drugs, etc

Diocesan Courses for Children’s Workers

Sat 8^th Mar 10am – 12noon Roots – new material for children

at St Cuthberts, Fulwood. Cost £5

Tue 11^th Mar 7.30pm Child Protection Training

At St Gabriel’s, Blackburn. No charge

Please remember in your prayers

Geoff Brown Mick Davies Elsie Deacon Agnes Duffy Eileen Fisher

Win Loftus Carol Sergeant Thelma Thomas

On Monday 11^th February our PCC expressed concerns about some of the issues raised by the Archbishop of Canterbury as he opened up the debate about how Muslim Sharia Law might relate to English law in the future. As a result we raised the issue at Deanery Synod, which provoked some enthusiastic discussion, and we are writing a letter to the Archbishop. The text of the letter is reproduced below. The letter is at the back of church if you wish to add your signature to it.

“Dear Archbishop Rowan,

Last night the PCC of St John’s Leyland discussed your recent comments about the need for thinking and discussion around how the English legal system should accommodate the unavoidable inclusion of some aspects of Sharia Law. Our discussions raised some fundamental concerns.

Sharia Law is viewed by the vast majority of Muslims as God’s divine law which cannot be altered, and wherever it has been accommodated within the legal system of Muslim states it has always led to the infringement of freedoms and human rights of the most vulnerable people in those societies, such as women, children and non-Muslims. The Barnabas Fund, who have first hand experience with Christians who are suffering for their faith in Islamic states, highlighted these issues in their response to your statement.

We were concerned, first of all, about the premise of your statement that the accommodation of Sharia Law within the English legal system is unavoidable. Already politicians and others have expressed their concern that to accommodate Sharia Law within the legal system will result in further fragmentation of our society rather than encouraging social cohesion. Many have also responded with the view that all citizens ought to be treated equally before the law regardless of the faith they express. We agree with these views and believe it would be both wrong and damaging to allow exceptions under the law for Muslims.

We were also concerned about the areas of Sharia Law that you suggest could in some way be allowed to operate, such as divorce. Even the implementation of some of these aspects of Sharia Law could open up immense problems for some Muslims, especially those who reject Islam or who convert from it. For example, converts from Islam could find themselves facing divorce proceedings and being given no (or restricted) access to their children, because of their conversion. Because Sharia Law is viewed by most Muslims as God’s law it will always be perceived by them to have more sway than secular law, thus those from a Muslim background, who may prefer to be judged through the secular courts of justice may find themselves pressurised into accepting Sharia Law instead.

Our concern is not only for our generation, but the generations that will follow. If we were to include Sharia Law in some form within our legal system, our fears are that it would set in motion a move towards its full acceptance in this country; maybe not next year, nor even in 20 years time, but it might well be inevitable in due course. We believe that Muslims would campaign for further expansion of Sharia Law simply because they view it as of divine origin and thus superior to any man-made laws. We believe that in the long term this would result in the oppressive and unjust treatment of many vulnerable individuals, especially women and converts from Islam, such as happens in most Islamic states today.

The issue that caused most initial concern in our PCC discussions was that of Anglicans and other Christians who are currently living in oppressive Islamic states. You will be aware that thousands of Christians are being discriminated against, persecuted and in some cases killed under the force of Sharia Law. The suffering they are facing is immense. Our brothers and sisters in Christ need our support and help. We ought to be highlighting to the world the brutal nature of full Sharia Law in these countries and doing all in our power to relieve the suffering of our fellow Christians and other minorities under Sharia Law’s discriminatory system. We believe that the statements you have made about the accommodation of Sharia Law in this country can only strengthen the hand of those who are enforcing it in some Islamic States in order to destroy the Christian Church. We believe your statement strengthens the hands of the persecutors of Christ’s Church in these lands, and we urge you, for the sake of the suffering Church, minority Islamic groups in this country and the promotion of social cohesion in our own country, to withdraw your comments and apologise for any harm caused by them.”

ST. JOHN’S SERVICES AND EVENTS

Sun 17^th Feb 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Morning Worship

Thu 21^st Feb 7.30 – 9.30pm Whole Church Meeting

Doug Harris of the Outreach Trust

“Jehovah’s Witnesses”

Sun 24^th Feb 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am All Age Worship

Mon 25^th 6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children

Tue 26^th 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children

8pm Ministry Development Team at 43 Hall Lane

Wed 27^th 10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Sun 2^nd Mar 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Holy Communion

A BIG THANK YOU FROM PLAYGROUP

Playgroup would like to say a big thank you to all those who supported our coffe morning on the 2^nd February.

We raised £145 towards the laptop we wanted to buy.

10th Feb 2008 Cell Outline & Notices

2008-02-10T18:05:00.000-08:00

Cell Meeting Outline week beginning Sunday 10^th February 2008

2Corinthians 8:1-15

Welcome

When do you think you have been extravagant?

Word

Read 2 Corinthians 8 v 1-15

Were there any particular points from the sermon that made you think differently about giving?

Here are some reasons for giving. Can you think of any others?
Can you put them in order of importance?

Example of others. Expression of love for God. Shamed into it.

Desire to share. It is the law. To look good. Act of worship. Response to the life of Jesus. If I give I will be blessed.

Does the motive for giving make any difference to the gift?

How would you explain to a new Christian the fact that giving is part of discipleship?

Worship

Read ‘When I survey the wondrous cross’. Pause after each verse and think about what it is saying to you about your possessions.

Spend some time praising Jesus for what he has done for you as an individual.

Think about your giving as an act of worship in response to God’s love.

Listen to a recording of the hymn.

Witness

Are there any things that you could do to live more simply and so release more to give away?

If you found you had more money e.g. a legacy or a pay rise or the end of a loan what would you do with the extra cash?

How would you explain this to family and friends?

Are there any ways you could financially support your missions more?

ST JOHN’S MESSENGER 10^th February 2008 1^st Sunday of Lent

§ Church Web Site: www.stjohnsleyland.co.uk

§ Vicar: Alistair McHaffie Tel: 621646

§ Associate Minister: Barbara Wilson Tel: 435340

Welcome to St John's parish church,

If you would like someone to pray for you there will be two people available at the front of church after most services and also during the period of distribution in our Communion services

February Special Events

Thu 14^th Feb 7.30pm Deanery Synod at St John’s Leyland

Thu 21^st Feb 7.30pm Whole Church Meeting

– Doug Harris of the Reachout Trust on the Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Would anyone be able to offer Doug a bed for the night?

Please let Alistair know

Churches Together in Leyland Lent Meetings 2008

This year’s Lent meetings will be held in the Methodist School Hall, Canberra Road

7.15 for 7.30pm, till 9pm

Come to listen, pray and discuss some of the key issues affecting our community

Thu 14^th Feb ‘Migrant Workers’

Thu 21^st Feb ‘Key Project (Youth)’

Thu 28^th Feb ‘SLEAP (Homelessness)’

Thu 6^th Mar ‘Drugs, etc

Articles & Notices for The Messenger

to be sent to Alan Scarff by the Thursday before

to alanandpam@blueyonder.co.uk

Please remember in your prayers

Geoff Brown Mick Davies Elsie Deacon Agnes Duffy Eileen Fisher

Win Loftus Carol Sergeant Thelma Thomas

Diocesan Courses for Children’s Workers

Sat 16^th Feb 10am – 12noon Mid Week Clubs, at St James Clitheroe Cost £5

Sat 8^th Mar 10am – 12noon Roots – new material for children at St Cuthberts, Fulwood. Cost £5

Tue 11^th Mar 7.30pm Child Protection Training at St Gabriel’s, Blackburn. No charge

Please pray for our next PCC Meeting (tomorrow) which includes the following items on the agenda

Eric & Anna Hornbuckle

This year’s Mission Action Plan

Setting up a new congregation

Wills & Legacies

Easter Mission 29^th March – 5^th April 2009

Thanks to everyone who came and helped with the hedge pruning yesterday!

ST. JOHN’S SERVICES AND EVENTS

Sun 10^th Feb 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Holy Communion

Mon 11^th 6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children

7.30pm PCC in the Church Lounge

Tue 12^th 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children

8pm Alpha Course at 22 Crawford Avenue

Wed 13^th 10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Thu 14^th 7.30pm Deanery Synod at St John’s Leyland

Sun 17^th Feb 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Morning Worship

Thu 21^st Feb 7.30 – 9.30pm Whole Church Meeting

Doug Harris of the Outreach Trust

“Jehovah’s Witnesses”

Sun 24^th Feb 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am All Age Worship

Mon 25^th 6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children

Tue 26^th 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children

8pm Ministry Development Team at 43 Hall Lane

Wed 27^th 10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Sun 2^nd Mar 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Holy Communion

Cell Outline & Messenger 3rd Feb 2008

2008-02-05T13:22:00.000-08:00

Cell Meeting Outline week beginning Sunday 3^rd February 2008 Matthew 6:19-24

Welcome

What do you most enjoy doing in your spare time?

Word

Read Matthew 6:19-24

Between you, can you summarise the main teaching points from Sunday’s sermon?

What basic problem is Jesus dealing with in this passage?

What is Jesus saying when he talks about ‘moths, rust and thieves’? Can you think of modern day equivalents?

What happens when a Christian loses his or her focus on Biblical values (v.22-23)? How might this show itself in their life?

In what ways do you encounter the tension in v.24 between serving God and serving money?

Worship

Read Psalm 51:1-12

Play a quiet hymn/worship song on a CD and, while thinking about your own attitudes to money and material possessions, pray individually in your own hearts and minds during the track, asking God to change, shape and mould you where necessary.

Witness

What has been the most challenging thing for you so far in our teaching series about money? Is there anything that you as an individual or a group need to do to respond to it?

Pray for the mission agencies you support. Should anyone in your group be writing to any missionaries you support for their encouragement and to let them know you pray for them?

Do you need to make plans for your next social evening? Are you still praying about people you want to invite to such an evening? Would it be worth making a fresh list of people you would like to invite between now and the summer?

ST JOHN’S MESSENGER 3^rd February 2008 Sunday before Lent

§ Church Web Site: www.stjohnsleyland.co.uk

§ Vicar: Alistair McHaffie Tel: 621646

§ Associate Minister: Barbara Wilson Tel: 435340

Welcome to St John's parish church,

If you would like someone to pray for you there will be two people available at the front of church after most services and also during the period of distribution in our Communion services

HEDGE TRIMMING VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

At 9am on Saturday 9^th February, Dave Riley who normally cuts our grass will be helping us to radically trim the large beech hedge in the church/vicarage garden. He has kindly offered his services for free but requires a team of willing workers for the day. Please let Alistair or Tom know if you can help. Pippa will supply refreshments and lunch to the workers.

February Special Events

Wed 6^th Feb Lunch Club in the Church Lounge

Fri 8^th Feb 7.30pm Men’s Group Quiz & Hotpot supper

Thu 14^th Feb 7.30pm Deanery Synod at St John’s Leyland

We will need people to organise refreshments for this,

volunteers please see Alistair

Thu 21^st Feb 7.30pm Whole Church Meeting

– Doug Harris of the Reachout Trust on the Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Would anyone be able to offer Doug a bed for the night?

Please let Alistair know

Articles & Notices for The Messenger

to be sent to Alan Scarff by the Thursday before

to alanandpam@blueyonder.co.uk

Please remember in your prayers

Geoff Brown Mick Davies Elsie Deacon Agnes Duffy Eileen Fisher

Win Loftus Carol Sergeant Thelma Thomas

Diocesan Courses for Children’s Workers

Sat 9th Feb 9.30am – 1pm Quiet Day at Tabor Retreat Centre, Preston

Cost £10, includes lunch

Sat 16^th Feb 10am – 12noon Mid Week Clubs, at St James Clitheroe

Cost £5

Sat 8^th Mar 10am – 12noon Roots – new material for children

at St Cuthberts, Fulwood. Cost £5

Tue 11^th Mar 7.30pm Child Protection Training

At St Gabriel’s, Blackburn. No charge

Churches Together in Leyland Lent Meetings 2008

This year’s Lent meetings will be held in the Methodist School Hall, Canberra Road

7.15 for 7.30pm, till 9pm

Come to listen, pray and discuss some of the key issues affecting our community

Thu 14^th Feb ‘Migrant Workers’

Thu 21^st Feb ‘Key Project (Youth)’

Thu 28^th Feb ‘SLEAP (Homelessness)’

Thu 6^th Mar ‘Drugs, etc.’

Please pray for our next PCC Meeting which includes the following items on the agenda

Eric & Anna Hornbuckle

This year’s Mission Action Plan

Setting up a new congregation

Wills & Legacies

Easter Mission 29^th March – 5^th April 2009

ST. JOHN’S SERVICES AND EVENTS

Sun 3^rd Feb 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Holy Communion

Mon 4^th 6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children

Tue 5^th 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children

7.30pm Churches Together in Leyland meeting at St James

Wed 6^th 10am Holy Communion

1pm Lunch Club in the Church Lounge

7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Fri 8^th 7.30pm Men’s Group Quiz & Hotpot supper in the Church

Lounge

Sat 9^th 9am Hedge trimming work party in the church/vicarage

Garden

Sun 10^th Feb 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Holy Communion

Mon 11^th 6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children

7.30pm PCC in the Church Lounge

Tue 12^th 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children

8pm Alpha Course at 22 Crawford Avenue

Wed 13^th 10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Thu 14^th 7.30pm Deanery Synod at St John’s Leyland

Sun 17^th Feb 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Morning Worship

Thu 21^st Feb 7.30 – 9.30pm Whole Church Meeting

Doug Harris of the Outreach Trust

“Jehovah’s Witnesses”

Cell Outline & Messenger 13th January 2008

2008-01-11T02:41:00.000-08:00

Cell Meeting Outline week beginning 13^th January 2008
Matthew 25:14-30

Welcome

If you had a large sum of money to invest in a worthy cause, how would you use it?

Word

Read Matthew 25:14-30

What questions, if any, did Sunday morning’s sermon provoke?

In the story, who do the master and the three servants represent?

What could the bags of money represent (you may be able to list a number of possibilities)?

Why do you think the servants receive different amounts of money (v15)?

What were the expectations of the master for his servants while he was away, and how does this relate to us while Jesus ‘is away’?

What do you notice about the response of the first two servants (v16,17)?
What does this suggest about their relationship with the master?
How does the master reward them on his return (v21,23)?

Why did the servant who had only one talent hide the money?
What does this suggest about his relationship with the master?
How can we avoid being like that servant?

What principles should we put into practice from this parable, and how?

Worship

Begin by singing or listening to a worship song which speaks about what God has given us (e.g. MP 170 Give thanks with a grateful heart; MP 486 Now thank we all our God; I will offer up my life

In a few moments of open prayer thank God for his gifts to you, both material and spiritual

Next take a few moments to thank God for one another. Each group member should be the focus of at least one prayer of thanks. Different group members could offer prayers of thanks beginning with the words, ‘I thank God for ……. because…..’, acknowledging some of the gifts and talents God has given them.

Witness

Pray through any issues raised from the parable

Our Christianity Explored course starts on Wednesday evenings from 30^th January (one week later than previously advertised). There is still time to invite one or more contacts to this course.

Make plans for 2008 for the mission agencies you support.
Could someone in the group write to specific missionaries regularly?
Can you raise money for them in your Cell Group (in one cell group the members put about 50p a week into a jar when they meet)?

ST JOHN’S MESSENGER 13^th January 2008 2^nd of Epiphany

Welcome to St John's parish church,

If you would like someone to pray for you there will be two people available at the front of church after most services and also during the period of distribution in our Communion services

Peter Noonan’s group will be running our first Christianity Explored course on Wednesday evenings, beginning on 30^th January 2008. There are invitation cards at the back of church for you to use to invite friends along. This would be a great course for enquirers or for anyone who wants to do a ‘refresher’ in Christian basics. It involves meeting on a Wednesday evening to eat, watch a DVD and discuss some basic issues about faith. In the process we go through Mark’s gospel. Participants don’t need to know anything about the Bible, they won’t be asked to read aloud, pray or sing, and they can ask any questions they want.

Evangelical Leaders’ Assembly

St Andrew’s Leyland Fri 25^th & Sat 26^th January 2008 Cost £15 per day

Theme: “Training in the local church”

Speakers: Archie Poulos

Head of the Ministry Dept, Moore College, Sydney and pastor at a new church plant

Simon Austen

Vicar of St John’s & St Peter’s, Carlisle

This conference is open to anyone, but is geared to those in leadership at any level in a local church. It is for anyone engaged in a Bible teaching ministry, whether lay or ordained, full time or not.

Advanced Notice of Events

Fri 1^st Feb American meal and prayer event for the Hornbuckles.

Come and eat and pray between courses!

Thu 14^th Feb Deanery Synod at St John’s Leyland – we will need people to organise refreshments for this

Thu 21^st Feb Whole Church Meeting – Doug Harris of the Reachout Trust on the Jehovah’s Witnesses

It will cost us £850 per week to run St John's in 2008.

We need to have an average increase in donations of 15% in 2008 to balance our books

Please prayerfully consider what extra you can give in 2008.
If you pay tax; remember we can claim an extra 28p for every £1 that you give from the taxman.
If you would like to give via standing order or using our envelope scheme, or would like to know more about how we can claim tax back on your gifts, please ask Dave Champness for details.

Articles & Notices for The Messenger to be sent to Alan Scarff by the Thursday before to alanandpam@blueyonder.co.uk

Confirmation

Would anyone who would be interested in being confirmed in the next year or so please let Alistair know and we will organise a Confirmation course in the near future. Confirmation means you become a full member of the Church of England and are able to play a full part in the life of the church including PCC membership, etc. If you were baptised as a child, it enables you to confirm the baptism promises that were made on your behalf by others.

Please remember in your prayers

Mick Davies Elsie Deacon Agnes Duffy Eileen Fisher Win Loftus

Carol Sergeant Thelma Thomas

ST. JOHN’S SERVICES AND EVENTS

Sun 13^th Jan 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room
10.30am Morning Worship

Mon 14^th 11.45am Funeral Service for James Desmond Derbyshire
6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children
7.30pm PCC in the Church Lounge

Tue 15^th 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children

Wed 16^th 10am Holy Communion
7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Sun 20^th Jan 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room
10.30am Morning Worship

Mon 21^st 6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children

Tue 22^nd 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children

Wed 23^rd 10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Fri 25^th 9.30am – 4.30pm Evangelical Leaders’ Assembly at St Andrew’s Leyland
“Training in the Local Church” Cost £15 per day

Sat 26^th 9.30am – 4.15pm Evangelical Leaders’ Assembly at St Andrew’s Leyland
“Training in the Local Church” Cost £15 per day

Sun 27^th Jan 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room
10.30am All Age Worship – World Leprosy Day

Mon 21^st 6pm Level 1 for Infant school aged children

Tue 22^nd 6.15pm Level 2 for Junior school aged children

Wed 23^rd 10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for High school aged children

Fri 1^st Feb 7.30pm American Meal & Prayer event for the Hornbuckle Family

Letter from the Hornbuckles to St John's

2008-01-03T09:57:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

Anna and I wanted to write a brief note to update you on the latest news from our side of the Atlantic.

2007 was challenging for us. We spent so much time searching for a sending agency that shared out heart for the English people. It was a challenging search, but we found a supportive partner in Church Mission Society’s American counter-parts, CMS-USA.

CMS-USA is a young outfit and has a lot to learn still. But they have gotten behind us and St Johns Church. Since our official acceptance in late November, Anna and I have developed our network with friends and acquaintances here in the USA. Anybody who might be interested is being contacted to help us—no wonder people avoid us now!

We sent our first letters and emails out in early December and only heard back from a small percentage of folks. We think this largely has to do with the Christmas season. In the next week or two, we’ll issue our second round of letters and emails. We continue to contact larger churches that share our heart for Gospel work, especially among the English people.

So far we have about 20% of our budget in hand. While we’re a little disappointed in this figure, we also know that not a Sunday goes by that we don’t hear from several people that they intend to support us but haven’t yet. So, there are more people out there who have not yet donated to our work.

It’s our intention to join you by no later than June or July. Please keep us in your prayers! As we get more information about our fundraising efforts, we’ll be sure to pass this along to Alistair. Know that you are on our hearts and in our prayers!

Warmly in Christ,

Eric and Anna Hornbuckle

Prayer Diary, January 2008

2008-01-03T07:38:00.000-08:00

St John’s Leyland Prayer Diary – January 2008

Sun 6^th Janet & Graham Cowburn, Philip & Jake

9.45am Prayer in the crèche room

10.30 Family Communion

7^th Eddie & June Day; Elsie Deacon; Agnes Duffy; Carol & Steve Finley

8^th Eileen Fisher; Peter & Betina Fitton; Brenda Gaskell

8pm Alpha Course at 22 Crawford Avenue

9^th Ray & Margaret Gilfoyle; Brenda & Jim Griffiths & Yvonne

10^thSteve & Viv Gynes; Peter Hainsworth; Carole & Dennis Halliwell;

7.30pm St John’s Panto

OVERSEAS MISSIONARY FELLOWSHIP (OMF)

Paul & Nadine Woods - Pray that God will use Paul as he speaks at the Manchester Chinese Church once a month for the next few months. Continue to remember the Sunday ‘Christianity Explored’ sessions, and pray that the children will settle back into school.

David & Mary Robinson ask prayer for the formation of local Thai Fellowships around the country. Praise and pray for 5 believers and enquirers meeting weekly in Manchester, that they will grow in faith and boldness to witness as they study God's word.

11^thGeorge Halliwell; Terence & Anne Harrington

7.30pm St John’s Panto

TERENCE HARRINGTON – LOCAL HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY

Pray that Terence will be a help to those he visits and to have opportunity to sensitively share the gospel with them.

12^thDoreen Hewlett; Jenny & Mike Higgin; Simon & Jill Horton, Oliver & Martha

2.30pm St John’s Panto

Sun 13^thKeith James; Allan & Tracey Johnson, Jack & Sam

9.45am Prayer in the crèche room

10.30 Morning Worship

14^thChris Jones; Win Loftus; Ruth Longland; Janice McLean; Evelyn Marsden

6pm Level 1 for infant school-aged children

7.30pm PCC in the Church Lounge

THE HORNBUCKLE FAMILY

§ Pray for a good response to 2^nd round of letters which are going to be sent out soon to potential supporters

§ Pray that those who have already pledged financial support will be quick to make their pledges a reality!

§ Pray for the pressures and fears that such a move will inevitable bring to the family, particularly the children and ageing parents.

§ Pray for the children’s educational needs when they move – especially for Aaron who should be going into year 11 (2^nd GCSE year) in September

15^thAlistair & Pippa McHaffie, Hannah, Sam & Josh; Lesley & Phil Napier

6.15pm Level 2 for junior school-aged children

16^thAndy & Jean Marshall; Barry & Gina Matthews

10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for high school-aged children

17^thVal Murdoch; Peter & Sheila Noonan, & Jenny; Sandra Otter & Samantha

10.30am Alistair’s Assembly at Northbrook Primary School

18^th Bill Parker; Lucy & Ivor Percival; Karen Robinson

9.15am Alistair’s assembly at Woodlea Junior School

19^thAlison Pettitt, Timmy & Chelsea; Irene Prescott; Irene Rhodes

Sun 20^thGeorge & Marie Sams; Alan & Pam Scarff; Sarah Scarrf & Andy Stirzaker

9.45am Prayer in the crèche room

10.30 Morning Worship

THE INTERCONTINENTAL CHURCH SOCIETY (I.C.S.)

Pray for the seasonal chaplains spreading the gospel in Switzerland this winter:

From January onwards the Zermatt and Wengen chaplains face a challenge as they seek to make contact with those who have come to enjoy winter sports; pray they will make the most of the opportunities and ‘chance encounters’ that come their way.

Pray too for many who worship at the churches this winter to become ‘Friends’ of either church and give and pray regularly in support of our mission and ministry there.

21^st David & Pauline Senior; Les & Carol Sergeant

6pm Level 1 for infant school-aged children

22^nd Nancy Sinfield; Audrey Singleton

6.15pm Level 2 for junior school-aged children

23^rd Chris Slater; Evelyn Smedley; Roy & Kath Smith, Ella & Mark

10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for high school-aged children

24^th Violet Southworth; David & Ann Spencer, Peter & Andrew

10.30am Alistair’s Assembly at Northbrook Primary School

25^th Elsie Taylor; Thelma Thomas

9.30am – 4.30pm Evangelical Leaders’ Assembly at St Andrew’s Leyland

26^th Doreen Turner; Colin & Eileen Wadsworth;

9.30am – 4.15pm Evangelical Leaders’ Assembly at St Andrew’s Leyland

TEARFUND – DARFUR (WESTERN SUDAN)

Rebels have claimed to have inflicted losses on the Sudanese army in West Darfur, capturing soldiers, vehicles and weapons this week.

The Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) said that it had captured the troops and defeated two battalions near el-Genenia, the capital of West Darfur and attacked oil fields in the neighbouring region of Kordofan.

Please continue to pray for the violence and conflict affecting so many communities in Darfur and ask that the international community will continue to remember displaced communities. Pray that the work of Tearfund's disaster management teams and partner FAR in the region will encourage communities to find hope.

Sun 27^thSteve & Judith Watson; Eddie & Carol Wastell; Mabel Williams

9.45am Prayer in the crèche room

10.30 All Age Worship

28^th Rose Wilson; Tom & Barbara Wilson

6pm Level 1 for infant school-aged children

29^thBishop Nicholas; Bishop John; Bishop Geoff; Archdeacon John

6.15pm Level 2 for junior school-aged children

30^thThe Queen & Royal Family; The Prime Minister & Cabinet; Our MP, David Borrow

10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for high school-aged children

31^st Other local churches and their leaders; Churches Together in Leyland; Leyland

District Evangelical Churches

THE BARNABAS FUND

National and provincial elections will be held in Pakistan on 8 January 2008. While Pakistan’s former voting system discriminated against religious minorities such as Christians and Hindus by only allowing them to vote for a number of reserved seats for members of their own group, the current system, in which non-Muslims can vote for both reserved and non-reserved seats, still means it is difficult for non-Muslim minorities to gain political representation. Islamic parties do not want candidates from other religious groups and non-Muslims are reluctant to run against Muslims.
Two Christian candidates are running for the reserved minority seats for Christians in the upcoming elections. If elected, they are hoping to help end the controversial “blasphemy laws” under which there is a mandatory death sentence for “defiling the name of Muhammad”. Christians and other non-Muslims are particularly vulnerable to false accusations under this law.

Pray that God’s will be done in the January elections in Pakistan. Pray especially against any outbreak of violence during the elections.

Pray for God’s hand on the Christian candidates. Pray that they will be elected and use their position of political influence to help create a state that is open and tolerant towards minority faiths.

1^st Feb David & Sonia Barlow; Ann & Bill Baxter

7.30pm American Meal & prayer event for the Hornbuckle family

2^nd Feb Bill & Liz Beaver; Vangie Brunsdon & Victoria

Sun 3^rd Jan Barbara Bibby; Melanie Blizzard; Joan Boardman

9.45am Prayer in the crèche room

10.30 Holy Communion

AFRICA INLAND MISSION

Please pray urgently with us for the calling of teachers to fill the many vacancies at schools for the children of missionaries – Haven of Peace Academy, Tanzania; Rift Valley Academy, Kenya; and Madagascar Christian Academy. Pray also for teachers in national schools in Africa where there are many opportunities to make disciples of Christ.

Feb 4^th Jan Geoff & Pat Brown; Joan Calderbank; Jean Caldwell; Janet Campbell

6pm Level 1 for infant school-aged children

Feb 5^th Jan Dave & Sue Champness, Jamie & Louise; Fiona Clarke; Carol & Mike Cowburn

6.15pm Level 2 for junior school-aged children

Christmas Message to St John's from the Hornbuckle family

2007-12-28T15:29:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

Just a quick note to say Happy Christmas (or Merry, as we say here), and to let you know that you are in hearts and on our minds this Christmas morning. We’re making progress toward joining you, though it’s slower than we’d hoped. We continue to pray for you, and speak about you and your labors in Christ to our friends here in America. We are honored to be a part of your community of faith and look forward to our future together.

All our love this Christmas,

The Hornbuckles

Sunday 23rd December 2007

2007-12-21T04:01:00.000-08:00

ST JOHN’S WEEKLY MESSENGER
23^rd December 2007 4^th Sunday of Advent

§ Church Web Site: www.stjohnsleyland.co.uk

§ Vicar: Alistair McHaffie Tel: 621646

§ Associate Minister: Barbara Wilson Tel: 435340

§ Articles & Notices for The Messenger to be sent to Alan Scarff by the Thursday before at alanandpam@blueyonder.co.uk

Welcome to St John's parish church, and Happy Christmas.

This will be the last Messenger produced until Sunday 13^th January 2008

If you would like personal prayer, there will be two people on the front pew after each Sunday service, and during the distribution of Communion, who will be willing to pray with you.

Christianity Explored

For the last two years we have run several Alpha Courses for people who want to think about the Christian faith. This has been run by a small group including Alistair, Barbara, Sue, Chris, Ann and others. From January, for a trial course, we are not going to use the previous Alpha leaders, but instead use one of the Cell Groups to run the course. Peter Noonan’s group will be running the next course on Wednesday evenings, beginning on 23^rd January 2008

Also, for various theological and practical reasons we are going to use the Christianity Explored Course instead of the Alpha Course, although we may use some of the Alpha material as a follow-up later on. The outline programme is printed below for your information. There are also cards at the back of church for you to use to invite friends along.

________________________________

It will cost us £850 per week to run St John's in 2008.

We need to have an average increase in donations of 15% in 2008 to balance our books.

Please prayerfully consider what extra you can give in 2008.

If you pay tax; remember we can claim an extra 28p for every £1 that you give from the taxman.

If you would like to give via standing order or using our envelope scheme, or would like to know more about how we can claim tax back on your gifts, please ask Dave Champness for details.

______________________________-

ST. JOHN’S SERVICES AND EVENTS

Sun 23^rd Dec 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am All Age Christmas Service with Levellers

6.30pm Traditional Carol Service

Mon 24^th Dec 4pm Crib Service

11pm Christmas Eve Communion Service

Tues 25^th Dec 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Christmas Family Communion

Sun 30^th Dec 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am All Age Worship

St John’s Prayer Week

Wed 2^nd Jan 12 – 12.30 & 7 – 7.30

Thu 3^rd Jan 12 – 12.30 & 7 – 7.30

Fri 4th Jan 12 – 12.30 & 7 – 7.30

Sat 5^th Jan 8-9am Prayer Breakfast

Sun 6^th Jan 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Family Communion

Thu 10^th 7.30pm Treasure Island Pantomime

Fri 11^th 7.30pm Treasure Island Pantomime

Sat 12^th 2.30pm Treasure Island Pantomime

Sun 13^th Jan 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Morning Worship

Confirmation

Please remember in your prayers

Chris & Mick Davies Agnes Duffy Eileen Fisher

Win Loftus Phil Napier (hernia) Carol Sergeant

Thelma Thomas

N.B. No Cell Meeting notes will be produced until 13^th January 2008

Sunday 16th December 2007

2007-12-14T15:11:00.000-08:00

Cell Meeting Outline week beginning 16^th December 2007

Isaiah 35:1-10

Welcome

q What do you like best about the transition of the seasons, from the cold and darkness of winter, through to the warmth and light of summer?

Word

q Was there anything from Sunday’s sermon that would be helpful to share at the beginning of this section?

q In contrast to those God destroys (Ch.34), what will happen to the land and people he saves?

q What does the image of the crocus blooming convey to you?

q Why should the weak and fearful (v.3&4) rejoice, and how might this apply to us?

q Should we take this passage literally or figuratively? Read Luke 7:18-23 to help you answer.

q Who are the ransomed or redeemed? (v.9&10) What do these words convey about us if we are indeed ransomed or redeemed (if it helps, consult a Bible Dictionary)

Worship

q Read 1Peter 1:13-21

q How many things can you find in this passage to praise God for?

q Spend some time thanking God for what you have discovered.

q Sing or listen to “There is a Redeemer”

Witness

q Who have you still to invite to St John’s Christmas services?
Who might your group invite to the Christianity Explored Course starting on 2^3rd January?

q Pray for these people by name, that they will accept your invitation.

_____________________

ST JOHN’S WEEKLY MESSENGER
16^th December 2007 3^rd Sunday of Advent

§ Church Web Site: www.stjohnsleyland.co.uk

§ Vicar: Alistair McHaffie Tel: 621646

§ Associate Minister: Barbara Wilson Tel: 435340

§ Articles & Notices for The Messenger to be sent to Alan Scarff by the Thursday before at alanandpam@blueyonder.co.uk

Welcome to St John's parish church, and Happy Birthday to Gina who is 60 today! Today’s flowers have been given by Barry to celebrate Gina’s birthday.

If you would like personal prayer, there will be two people on the front pew after each Sunday service, and during the distribution of Communion, who will be willing to pray with you.

CHRISTIANITY EXPLORED

23rd Jan Week 1 Introduction

30th Feb Week 2 Jesus - who was he?

6th Feb Week 3 Jesus - why did he come?

13th Feb Week 4 Jesus - his death

20th Feb HALF TERM

27th Feb Week 5 What is grace?

5th Mar Week 6 Jesus - his resurrection

Sat 9th Mar Exploring Christian Life

(A Saturday to include morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea)

Topics ~ The Church; The Holy Spirit; Prayer; The Bible

12th Mar Week 7 What is a Christian?

19th Mar Week 8 Continuing as a Christian

26th Mar Week 9 Choices - King Herod

2nd Apr Week 10 Choices - James, John & Bartimaeus

St John’s Christmas Cards

As in previous years can we encourage you to send one Christmas card to all your St John’s friends and donate the money you may otherwise have spent on cards to the Barnabas Fund for Iraqi Christians.

Carol Singing

We are going carol singing around Lowther Drive and Heatherleigh on Wed 19th December from 6.30 - 8.00pm & Sat 22nd 10 – 11am. Please sign up at the back of church.

New Church Congregation

We need a small group of committed people to join a planning group to review the recent questionnaires and make plans from scratch for setting up a new congregation which could be St John’s based, school based or pub based. Could we have at least 2 male volunteers to complete this group? Please give you name to Alistair as soon as possible.

Open Home at the Vicarage

Alistair & Pippa invite you to drop in to the vicarage for refreshmants any time from 2pm – 8pm on Saturday 22^nd December – stay for a few minutes or a few hours to suit your plans!

Confirmation

Ordering Christmas presents through Amazon?

If so, please don’t forget to link through the St John’s web site where we receive a commission which goes towards our church funds. (www.stjohnsleyland.co.uk)

Please remember in your prayers

Chris & Mick Davies Agnes Duffy Eileen Fisher

Win Loftus Phil Napier (hernia) Carol Sergeant

Thelma Thomas

Next Week's All Age Service

Next week's service will be nativity-play based and everyone is invited to come dressed as a nativity character (adults included!)

ST. JOHN’S SERVICES AND EVENTS

Sun 16^th Dec 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Morning Worship

“Advent with Isaiah – The Redeemed” Isaiah 35:1-10

Mon 17^th Dec 6pm Level 1 – for Infant School aged children

Tue 18^th Dec 6.15pm Level 2 – for Junior School aged children

Wed 19^th Dec 10am Holy Communion

6.30 – 8pm Parish Carol Singing

7.15pm Level 3 – for High School aged children

Sat 22^nd Dec 10-11am Carol Singing in the parish

Sun 23^rd Dec 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am All Age Christmas Service with Levellers

6.30pm Traditional Carol Service

Mon 24^th Dec 4pm Crib Service

11pm Christmas Eve Communion Service

Tues 25^th Dec 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Christmas Family Communion

Sun 30^th Dec 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am All Age Worship

St John’s Prayer Week

Wed 2^nd Jan 12 – 12.30 & 7 – 7.30

Thu 3^rd Jan 12 – 12.30 & 7 – 7.30

Fri 4th Jan 12 – 12.30 & 7 – 7.30

Sat 5^th Jan 8-9am Prayer Breakfast

Sun 6^th Jan 9.45am Prayer in the Creche Room

10.30am Family Communion

December 2007 Prayer Diary

2007-12-14T00:49:00.000-08:00

St John’s Leyland Prayer Diary – December 2007

4^th Geoff & Pat Brown; Joan Calderbank; Jean Caldwell; Janet Campbell

12.15pm Alistair’s Assembly at Worden Sports College

6.15pm Level 2 for Junior School Aged Children

7.30pm Ladies’ Christmas Meal at Leyland Golf Club

5^th Dave & Sue Champness, Jamie & Louise; Fiona Clarke; Carol & Mike Cowburn

10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for High School Aged Children

6^th Janet & Graham Cowburn, Philip & Jake

10.30am Alistair’s Northbrook School Assembly

Terence Harrington - Local Hospital Chaplaincy

pray that Terence will be a help to those he visits and to have opportunity to sensitively share the gospel with them.

7^th Eddie & June Day; Elsie Deacon; Agnes Duffy; Carol & Steve Finley

8^th Eileen Fisher; Peter & Betina Fitton; Brenda Gaskell

10.30am Alistair’s assembly at Northbrook School

9^th Ray & Margaret Gilfoyle; Brenda & Jim Griffiths & Yvonne

9.45am Prayer in the crèche room

10.30 Morning Worship

10^thSteve & Viv Gynes; Peter Hainsworth; Carole & Dennis Halliwell;

12.15pm Alistair’s Assembly at Worden Sports College

Overseas Missionary Fellowship (OMF)

Paul & Nadine Woods are speaking at a ‘Christianity Explored’ Mandarin class each Sunday at Christ Church Central in Sheffield. Pray that those attending (both mainland Chinese and Taiwanese) will respond well, ask good questions, and some will come to faith in Christ.

David & Mary Robinson thank the Lord for the first North Region Thai believers Fellowship day last October with 10 believers gathered to worship and share together. Pray for their protection and encouragement as they all return home, often to isolated situations.

11^thGeorge Halliwell; Terence & Anne Harrington

12.15pm Alistair’s Assembly at Worden Sports College

6.15pm Level 2 for Junior School Aged Children

7.30pm Men’s Christmas Meal at Leyland Golf Club

12^thDoreen Hewlett; Jenny & Mike Higgin; Simon & Jill Horton, Oliver & Martha

10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for High School Aged Children

13^thKeith James; Allan & Tracey Johnson, Jack & Sam

10.30am Alistair’s Northbrook School Assembly

The Hornbuckle Family

§ Pray for a good response to the 140 letters recently sent out to potential supporters

§ Pray that those who have already pledged financial support will be quick to make their pledges a reality!

§ Pray for the budget to be agreed with CMS-USA

§ Pray for the pressures and fears that such a move will inevitable bring to the family, particularly the children and ageing parents.

14^thChris Jones; Win Loftus; Ruth Longland; Janice McLean; Evelyn Marsden

10am Playgroup Christmas Service

15^thAlistair & Pippa McHaffie, Hannah, Sam & Josh; Lesley & Phil Napier

12.30pm Over 55s Christmas Lunch

16^thAndy & Jean Marshall; Barry & Gina Matthews

9.45am Prayer in the crèche room

10.30 Morning Worship

17^thVal Murdoch; Peter & Sheila Noonan, & Jenny; Sandra Otter & Samantha

12.15pm Alistair’s Assembly at Worden Sports College

18^th Bill Parker; Lucy & Ivor Percival; Karen Robinson

12.15pm Alistair’s Assembly at Worden Sports College

6.15pm Level 2 for Junior School Aged Children

19^thAlison Pettitt, Timmy & Chelsea; Irene Prescott; Irene Rhodes

10am Holy Communion

7.15pm Level 3 for High School Aged Children

20^thGeorge & Marie Sams; Alan & Pam Scarff; Sarah Scarrf & Andy Stirzaker

21^st David & Pauline Senior; Les & Carol Sergeant

22^nd Nancy Sinfield; Audrey Singleton

2 – 8pm Open Home at the Vicarage

23^rd Chris Slater; Evelyn Smedley; Roy & Kath Smith, Ella & Mark

9.45am Prayer in the crèche room

10.30 All Age Levellers Christmas Service

6.30 Traditional Carol Service

The Intercontinental Church Society (I.C.S.)

ICS is responsible for managing the recruitment of many chaplains. Please pray that the right person might be found for each of the vacancies below:

St. Clement’s, Prague & St. George’s, Barcelona (replacing Peter & Barbara Jordan). Pray for Peter and Barbara as they seek to minister in a different capacity in the Barcelona region.

24^th Violet Southworth; David & Ann Spencer, Peter & Andrew

4pm Crib Service

11pm Holy Communion

25^th Elsie Taylor; Thelma Thomas

10.30 Family Christmas Communion Service

26^th Doreen Turner; Colin & Eileen Wadsworth;

27^thSteve & Judith Watson; Eddie & Carol Wastell; Mabel Williams

28^th Rose Wilson; Tom & Barbara Wilson

29^thBishop Nicholas; Bishop John; Bishop Geoff; Archdeacon John

30^thThe Queen & Royal Family; The Prime Minister & Cabinet; Our MP, David Borrow

9.45am Prayer in the crèche room

10.30 All Age Worship

31^st Other local churches and their leaders; Churches Together in Leyland; Leyland

District Evangelical Churches

1^st Jan David & Sonia Barlow; Ann & Bill Baxter

The Barnabas Fund

There are more than 3.5 million people in Darfur who are completely reliant on international aid. The small Christian community in Darfur are vulnerable to being excluded at the grass-roots end of the distribution process, as local organisations run by the Muslim majority are likely to discriminate against Christians.

Barnabas Fund has been helping in Darfur since December 2004 to ensure that the Christians do not miss out. We are providing food aid directly to 100 Christian families, distributed through Sudanese church leaders. The families receive food parcels, apportioned on family size, containing items such as sorghum, white beans, lentils, rice and oil. The aid sent by Barnabas Fund has enabled Christian families to stay together and has given them hope.

2^nd Jan Bill & Liz Beaver; Vangie Brunsdon & Victoria

12pm – 12.30pm Prayer in Church

7pm - 7.30pm Prayer in Church

AIM - KENYA Renate Hornung and patient attendant Simon have been visiting the small village of Aposta near Lokichogio weekly for three years, teaching basic disease prevention and how to treat certain diseases at home. She is thankful that the villagers have seen the value of the teaching. Renate and Simon have been able to help with inexpensive mosquito nets, simple solar cookers and tree planting. A Christmas party is being planned – another opportunity to share the Good News. Continue to pray for them and the Turkana village of Aposta.

3^rd Jan Barbara Bibby; Melanie Blizzard; Joan Boardman

12pm – 12.30pm Prayer in Church

7pm - 7.30pm Prayer in Church

4^th Jan Geoff & Pat Brown; Joan Calderbank; Jean Caldwell; Janet Campbell

12pm – 12.30pm Prayer in Church

7pm - 7.30pm Prayer in Church

5^th Jan Dave & Sue Champness, Jamie & Louise; Fiona Clarke; Carol & Mike Cowburn

10.30am – 12pm Prayer in Church

9th December 2007

2007-12-12T04:31:00.000-08:00

ST JOHN’S WEEKLY MESSENGER
9^th December 2007 2^nd Sunday of Advent

§ Church Web Site: www.stjohnsleyland.co.uk

§ Vicar: Alistair McHaffie Tel: 621646

§ Associate Minister: Barbara Wilson Tel: 435340

§ Articles & Notices for The Messenger to be sent to Alan Scarff by the Thursday before at alanandpam@blueyonder.co.uk

Welcome to St John's parish church.

If you would like personal prayer, there will be two people on the front pew after each Sunday service, and during the distribution of Communion, who will be willing to pray with you.

St John’s Christmas Cards

Carol Singing

We are going carol singing around Lowther Drive and Heatherleigh on Wed 19th December from 6.30 - 8.00pm & Sat 22nd 10 – 11am. Please sign up at the back of church.

New Church Congregation

Gina’s Party

On the 16^th December , Gina Matthews is celebrating her 60^th birthday with a party in St. John’s Church Hall from 3pm to 6pm. Gina would like her friends from St. John’s to join in her celebrations.

Please come and enjoy the party---names to Pat Brown or Marie Sams

Open Home at the Vicarage

Alistair & Pippa invite you to drop in to the vicarage for refreshmants any time from 2pm – 8pm on Saturday 22^nd December – stay for a few minutes or a few hours to suit your plans!

Alistair would also like to express his thanks to everyone for their lovely cards, gifts and best wishes for his 50^th birthday last Sunday.

Cell Meeting Outline week beginning 9^th December 2007

Isaiah 11:1-10

Welcome

What things or people fill you with delight?

Worship

Think of all the words you can that describe God. If possible use verses from the Bible that demonstrate that quality.

Be quiet for a few minutes and allow these qualities of God to fill you with a sense of awe. You may want to turn some of this into prayer.

Play a song that talks about God’s majesty.

Word

“Wisdom takes insights gleaned from the knowledge of God’s ways and applies them in the daily walk.” Do you find this true for your own life? How could you become wiser?

Look at verses 6 – 9. What kind of a world is being described here? Is it how you would describe heaven?

What would a world full of the knowledge of God be like?

In the Lord’s Prayer we ask that God’s kingdom would come on earth. What are we doing to bring about the kind of kingdom described in v.3b - 5?

In v 10 it says that the Messiah will be like a rallying banner. If you were designing a banner to attract people to Jesus what would you put on it?

Witness

Pray about ways you could further God’s kingdom in this area over the Christmas period. Are there any practical things you could do?

What about family members and your witness to them?

Try to each take away one challenge and be ready to report back on it in the new year.

St John's Leyland Notices & Prayer Diaries

Cell Outline & Messenger 9th March 2008

Cell Outline & Messenger 3rd March 2008

Cell Outline & Notices 17th February 2008

2 Corinthians 9:6-15

Welcome

Word

Worship

Witness

10th Feb 2008 Cell Outline & Notices

2Corinthians 8:1-15

Welcome

Word

Worship

Witness

Cell Outline & Messenger 3rd Feb 2008

Welcome

Word

Read Matthew 6:19-24

Between you, can you summarise the main teaching points from Sunday’s sermon?

What basic problem is Jesus dealing with in this passage?

Worship

Witness

Cell Outline & Messenger 13th January 2008

Welcome

If you had a large sum of money to invest in a worthy cause, how would you use it?

Word

What principles should we put into practice from this parable, and how?

Worship

Witness

Letter from the Hornbuckles to St John's

Prayer Diary, January 2008

St John’s Leyland Prayer Diary – January 2008

Sun 6th Janet & Graham Cowburn, Philip & Jake

7th Eddie & June Day; Elsie Deacon; Agnes Duffy; Carol & Steve Finley

9th Ray & Margaret Gilfoyle; Brenda & Jim Griffiths & Yvonne

10thSteve & Viv Gynes; Peter Hainsworth; Carole & Dennis Halliwell;

7.30pm St John’s Panto

11th George Halliwell; Terence & Anne Harrington

TERENCE HARRINGTON – LOCAL HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY

Pray that Terence will be a help to those he visits and to have opportunity to sensitively share the gospel with them.

12th Doreen Hewlett; Jenny & Mike Higgin; Simon & Jill Horton, Oliver & Martha

Sun 13th Keith James; Allan & Tracey Johnson, Jack & Sam

14th Chris Jones; Win Loftus; Ruth Longland; Janice McLean; Evelyn Marsden

THE HORNBUCKLE FAMILY

15th Alistair & Pippa McHaffie, Hannah, Sam & Josh; Lesley & Phil Napier

6.15pm Level 2 for junior school-aged children

16th Andy & Jean Marshall; Barry & Gina Matthews

17th Val Murdoch; Peter & Sheila Noonan, & Jenny; Sandra Otter & Samantha

10.30am Alistair’s Assembly at Northbrook Primary School

18th Bill Parker; Lucy & Ivor Percival; Karen Robinson

19th Alison Pettitt, Timmy & Chelsea; Irene Prescott; Irene Rhodes

21st David & Pauline Senior; Les & Carol Sergeant

22nd Nancy Sinfield; Audrey Singleton

6.15pm Level 2 for junior school-aged children

23rd Chris Slater; Evelyn Smedley; Roy & Kath Smith, Ella & Mark

10.30am Alistair’s Assembly at Northbrook Primary School

25th Elsie Taylor; Thelma Thomas

26th Doreen Turner; Colin & Eileen Wadsworth;

TEARFUND – DARFUR (WESTERN SUDAN)

Sun 27th Steve & Judith Watson; Eddie & Carol Wastell; Mabel Williams

28th Rose Wilson; Tom & Barbara Wilson

29th Bishop Nicholas; Bishop John; Bishop Geoff; Archdeacon John

30th The Queen & Royal Family; The Prime Minister & Cabinet; Our MP, David Borrow

District Evangelical Churches

THE BARNABAS FUND

1st Feb David & Sonia Barlow; Ann & Bill Baxter

7.30pm American Meal & prayer event for the Hornbuckle family

2nd Feb Bill & Liz Beaver; Vangie Brunsdon & Victoria

Sun 3rd Jan Barbara Bibby; Melanie Blizzard; Joan Boardman

Feb 4th Jan Geoff & Pat Brown; Joan Calderbank; Jean Caldwell; Janet Campbell

Feb 5th Jan Dave & Sue Champness, Jamie & Louise; Fiona Clarke; Carol & Mike Cowburn

6.15pm Level 2 for junior school-aged children

Christmas Message to St John's from the Hornbuckle family

Sunday 23rd December 2007

Sunday 16th December 2007

Word

Worship

Witness

December 2007 Prayer Diary

Sun 6^th Janet & Graham Cowburn, Philip & Jake

7^th Eddie & June Day; Elsie Deacon; Agnes Duffy; Carol & Steve Finley

9^th Ray & Margaret Gilfoyle; Brenda & Jim Griffiths & Yvonne

10^thSteve & Viv Gynes; Peter Hainsworth; Carole & Dennis Halliwell;

11^thGeorge Halliwell; Terence & Anne Harrington

12^thDoreen Hewlett; Jenny & Mike Higgin; Simon & Jill Horton, Oliver & Martha

Sun 13^thKeith James; Allan & Tracey Johnson, Jack & Sam

14^thChris Jones; Win Loftus; Ruth Longland; Janice McLean; Evelyn Marsden

15^thAlistair & Pippa McHaffie, Hannah, Sam & Josh; Lesley & Phil Napier

16^thAndy & Jean Marshall; Barry & Gina Matthews

17^thVal Murdoch; Peter & Sheila Noonan, & Jenny; Sandra Otter & Samantha

18^th Bill Parker; Lucy & Ivor Percival; Karen Robinson

19^thAlison Pettitt, Timmy & Chelsea; Irene Prescott; Irene Rhodes

21^st David & Pauline Senior; Les & Carol Sergeant

22^nd Nancy Sinfield; Audrey Singleton

23^rd Chris Slater; Evelyn Smedley; Roy & Kath Smith, Ella & Mark

25^th Elsie Taylor; Thelma Thomas

26^th Doreen Turner; Colin & Eileen Wadsworth;

Sun 27^thSteve & Judith Watson; Eddie & Carol Wastell; Mabel Williams

28^th Rose Wilson; Tom & Barbara Wilson

29^thBishop Nicholas; Bishop John; Bishop Geoff; Archdeacon John

30^thThe Queen & Royal Family; The Prime Minister & Cabinet; Our MP, David Borrow

1^st Feb David & Sonia Barlow; Ann & Bill Baxter

2^nd Feb Bill & Liz Beaver; Vangie Brunsdon & Victoria

Sun 3^rd Jan Barbara Bibby; Melanie Blizzard; Joan Boardman

Feb 4^th Jan Geoff & Pat Brown; Joan Calderbank; Jean Caldwell; Janet Campbell

Feb 5^th Jan Dave & Sue Champness, Jamie & Louise; Fiona Clarke; Carol & Mike Cowburn

5^th Dave & Sue Champness, Jamie & Louise; Fiona Clarke; Carol & Mike Cowburn

6^th Janet & Graham Cowburn, Philip & Jake

7^th Eddie & June Day; Elsie Deacon; Agnes Duffy; Carol & Steve Finley

9^th Ray & Margaret Gilfoyle; Brenda & Jim Griffiths & Yvonne

10^thSteve & Viv Gynes; Peter Hainsworth; Carole & Dennis Halliwell;

11^thGeorge Halliwell; Terence & Anne Harrington

12^thDoreen Hewlett; Jenny & Mike Higgin; Simon & Jill Horton, Oliver & Martha

13^thKeith James; Allan & Tracey Johnson, Jack & Sam

14^thChris Jones; Win Loftus; Ruth Longland; Janice McLean; Evelyn Marsden

15^thAlistair & Pippa McHaffie, Hannah, Sam & Josh; Lesley & Phil Napier

16^thAndy & Jean Marshall; Barry & Gina Matthews

17^thVal Murdoch; Peter & Sheila Noonan, & Jenny; Sandra Otter & Samantha

18^th Bill Parker; Lucy & Ivor Percival; Karen Robinson

19^thAlison Pettitt, Timmy & Chelsea; Irene Prescott; Irene Rhodes

21^st David & Pauline Senior; Les & Carol Sergeant

22^nd Nancy Sinfield; Audrey Singleton

23^rd Chris Slater; Evelyn Smedley; Roy & Kath Smith, Ella & Mark

25^th Elsie Taylor; Thelma Thomas

26^th Doreen Turner; Colin & Eileen Wadsworth;

27^thSteve & Judith Watson; Eddie & Carol Wastell; Mabel Williams

28^th Rose Wilson; Tom & Barbara Wilson

29^thBishop Nicholas; Bishop John; Bishop Geoff; Archdeacon John