God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear. Psalm 46:1,2
Dear All
I am sure that as we continue to witness on our tv screens and papers the horrors of all that is going on in Israel and Palestine we feel there is nothing we can do. We can of course pray – here is the prayer from the URC:
God, hear our prayers for peace in the Middle East.
May all people in the region be protected, safe from harm.
We pray that this crisis will end now, with no further loss of life.
God, may the injured and distressed know your healing presence.
May the powerful and the decision-makers follow the paths of justice, mercy and peace.
We pray for recognition of the dignity and value of every life.
May the clamour of violence cease,
Replaced by the beating of swords into ploughshares.
God, in your name, Amen.
Maureen Warner
We continue to pray for Maureen’s family at this time. The funeral service of thanksgiving for Maureen’s life will be held at church this Wednesday, November 1st at 1pm. Everyone is very welcome to the service.
Safeguarding Course
All those involved in work with children, young people or vulnerable adults need to attend a refresher safeguarding course at least once every five years. Matthew our lead safeguarding officer has organized for one to take place here at church on Saturday 2nd December starting at 10.30 am. There is a link to a link to online learning that everyone will need to do before the day.
https://www.urclearninghub.org.uk/course/view.php?id=24 This link will also be sent out by e-mail.
Baby box and presents for Lily Nash
The baby box is in the foyer for gifts for Lily. Please though, no nappies are required. Gifts of toys, clothes for 6 months upwards and toiletries for sensitive skin would all be very much appreciated. If you would prefer to give a voucher or some money to enable Sabrina and Matt to purchase items as the need arises, please place these in the tithes and offerings box (marked up accordingly) and we will keep these safe until we present the gifts to them.
New Wine Celebration
This takes place on Saturday 18th November at Lawford Church starting at 7pm. The speaker for the evening is John Coles. I have 11 tickets left, please see me if you would like some. These are on a first come basis.
Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes
Our shoebox appeal is now in full swing. If you need a shoebox they are available for 40p. Pam Soames also has leaflets.
Piano
We have a cherished piano in the back cupboard of the large hall which needs a new home. If you would be interested in giving it a new home or know someone who might, please speak to Dave A or me.
Men’s Group
Peter and Adrian write “Here are the dates for our Homegroup and Chat and Chill up until Christmas.
Homegroup Chat and Chill
November 13th 27th
December 11th 18th
All meetings will be at Plume Avenue from 13.30 – 15.00 ish, unless advised otherwise for trips out. Please feel free to come along to any of the dates. Looking forward to getting together again. Peter and Adrian”
Also, just a reminder of the CVM Men’s evening on Saturday 25th November (poster below).
Dates for your diary:
Sunday 12th November CYO Celebration – see poster below.
Saturday 18th November New Wine Celebration evening at Lawford Church.
Saturday 2nd December- 10.30 am – Safeguarding training at Church for all those involved in work with children, young people or vulnerable adults.
Saturday 9th December – Ladies’ Retreat Day at Assington Hall – sign up in the foyer.
14th -16th June 2024 New Wine weekend at the Vauxhall Christian Trust Campsite, Gt Wenham.
This week
There will be prayer meetings on Wednesday and Saturday mornings at 9.30 am. The Tuesday evening bible study homegroup is also taking place this week at 7.30 pm on Zoom – please do join us if you can. Zoom details will be e-mailed early in the week.
With love and blessings.
