Our Vision

HILLSTOWN – CENTENARY
The first Sunday in July marks the Centenary of the Hillstown church. Revd Peter Cross will be leading the service at 6.00 pm, and although notice is a bit short – everyone will be welcome at that service to share with our friends at Hillstown on the milestone event.

BRIMINGTON CAMP REUNION
Or to give it’s full title: Brimington Methodist Youth Fellowship Camp Reunion was held on the weekend of 4/5 May this year.
From 1957 until 1975 a series of camp holidays were arranged from Brimington Methodist Church. Started originally by Sister (now Revd) Marjorie Hopp and continued by Joan (Bower) Wood, it usually involved sleeping on camp beds in schools and church halls. For many it was their first experience away from home, but it was organised in such a way that we catered for ourselves with all the duties (potato peeling, washing up etc) shared amongst the campers. We ensured that there was adequate kitchen space for the adult cooks among us. Other adults arranged their own accommodation nearby and joined us on the many trips, by kind courtesy of George Chumbley (Brimington’s coach operator at that time).
Although reunions tend to be commonplace, this one was special as it revived friendships from 30 – 40 years ago.
A video, numerous photographs, a running buffet and various chatter took care of the first part of Saturday from 1 pm. Later on, a walk was arranged for the hale and hearty, followed by a meal (superbly arranged by Brian Heathcote).
The fellowship continued on the Sunday morning in the form of a traditional camp service supervised by Kevin Laming (an ex-camper) “aided and abetted” by Revd Marjorie Hopp who had travelled from Devon, and Joan Wood. There were various items by ex-campers
Everyone appeared to enjoy themselves and we have vowed not to wait as long for the next big reunion (although there will be numerous mini-reunions in the meantime). John Buxton

BRIMINGTON COMMON...
The circuit plan revealed that we had a “morning own arrangement” service to sort out for Pentecost Sunday 19th May.
It was decided to join up with another church in the circuit (as we had previously done with Hillstown) – and this time we visited New Brimington. This was not as easy to organise as the visit to Hillstown – service time was different to our normal, we had the Sunday School to think about, the ladies were all wondering with the later start whether they would be back in time to cook the Sunday lunch etc.
In the event all that was necessary to solve our problems was a word with David Slater at New Brimington. He managed to change the service time for that week, and organised an order of service with Gwen Cushing who willingly involved the children in the first part of the Pentecost service – using a maypole with red and yellow ribbons to represent the flames AND – a lovely surprise was a welcoming poster greeted us as we entered the church.
At the appropriate time the children of both churches went into the hall where they had a session of Christian Games – each game having a moral to reveal.
Returning to the church, the service concluded with “Mine eyes have seen the glory” accompanied by the children on percussion instruments and waving paper streamers. All this concluded with refreshments served in the hall.
Thank you New Brimington. We really appreciate all you did, and our children have found new friendships at your church. Glenda Hives

… AND NEW BRIMINGTON
Mount Tabor had a very busy time in May, with three private bookings, a wedding, a children’s party and the local Community Forum. Twice during the month, Revd Mark Coles filled the church with children from Hollingwood School. To crown it all members from Brimington Common shared with our service on 19th May. Gwen Cushing introduced the children to her Pentecost Maypole. Then about 20 children left the service to join in some Christian-based Games in the hall, returning for the final hymn “Mine eyes have seen the glory”. Refreshments and fellowship were shared afterwards in the hall. Many thanks to Brimington Common for a generous spirited decision, which gave us all a boost!

So Church Stewards…
... when you have that “Own Arrangement” to plan can we suggest you take a leaf out of Brimington Common’s book and arrange a visit to another church nearby. The benefits of such “twinnings” are numerous—and will bear fruit over time. (As well as easing the planning burden at a time when preachers are becoming harder to find!)

The best way to show that a stick is crooked is not to argue about it or to spend time denouncing it, but to lay a straight stick alongside it.

D. L. Moody

HERE AND NOW
A piece which arrived in my e-mail postbox literally as the last newsletter rolled off the press, so my apologies for the delay.
“Here and Now” - the sequel to “Hopes and Dreams” will be presented at Sheffield City Hall on Wednesday, 2nd October. A professional cast led by Paul Field, Springs Dance Company, narrator Rob Frost, will be supported by local choirs, dance and drama groups. 53 seats have been provisionally booked - but the money is needed before the tickets can be released. Tickets cost £8.00 per person. If you would like to go please let Jean Fisher have the money for your ticket as soon as possible. (Tel: ******. Address:****************** ****************************************). Tickets will be sold on a first come first served basis!
We are hoping to present our own production in the circuit in 2003, so please go along to see what “Here and Now” is all about!

BREAKOUT 2002
As you read this, the young people of the connexion will be worshipping together at Breakout in Birmingham. We from Clowne would have been with them – except for the response this year from youngsters wanting to go! There were too many for a car yet not enough to make a bus viable, so we are waiting until next year’s provincial event in North East England. Does anyone out there want to join us then?

TO THE SEASIDE ONCE AGAIN…
For those who went to the seaside with Barlborough last year (and for those who missed a great gay out!) – Jay has booked a bus to go to Scarborough on Saturday 17 August. There are still 10 or so seats left (at £9 per adult / £5 child). If you would like one or more of them please ring Jay Raizada on ******* as soon as possible.
Another Barlborough suggestion for fellowship within the circuit is a 10 pin bowling evening. This would be a Wednesday from 9.00 pm until 11.00 at Chesterfield Bowl in July… Anyone interested? Again ring Jay on 812184 for more details.

ALL CHANGE IN MANCHESTER
Things are changing at the Property Office in Manchester. Robin Street who was Manager of the Scheme Development and funding Office has left to take up a career opportunity elsewhere. If any of you have ever telephoned Manchester for advice about a property scheme or grant, the chances are you will have spoken to Robin. His successor has been appointed. His name is Adam Thomas, but he will not be able to take up his post for several weeks. This has caused an obvious staff shortage in the Office and superintendent ministers have been asked to pass on the following to their circuits:

It is hoped that, with the co-operation of circuits, the present difficulties will be easily dealt with and that from September it will be back to service as normal.

“Holy Spirit” show me
What I can do for you
Fill me with the love you feel
So I can feel it too.
“Holy Spirit” help me to care
For the helpless and the lost
Wherever I’m needed, to do your will
And never count the cost.
“Holy Spirit” give me that peace
So that I may understand
That in the darkest moments of life
You’re always close at hand.
“Holy Spirit” fill my heart
My mind, my very soul
With joy and singing,
Prayer and praise.
Only you can make me whole
“Holy Spirit” tell me
What I cannot comprehend
In your great plan, you gave me life
And on you I can depend
So lead me “Holy Spirit”
Toward that promised land
So I may look at Jesu’s face
Then I will understand.

Strawberry Teas
Wimbledon is with us again, and strawberries and cream…
Clowne are holding their annual “Strawberry Tea” on Thursday 11 July from 4.00 pm until 6.00 pm.
Bolsover church will be serving Strawberry Teas on Saturday 13 July from 2.00 pm until 4.00 pm. The proceeds from this will go to JMA Funds.

Waiting for God's timing is probably one of the hardest things for you and me to do. We forget that God doesn't wear a watch. He doesn't pay any attention to what we think is good timing. He is interested only in His own timing for each event in our lives, a timing that is perfect. Bonnie Ricks

Our award-winning student newspaper ‘Platform’ recently published an article in which 2 students described unpleasant sexual experiences that had left them feeling used. As a Christian group, we didn’t want to be ‘Disgusted of Tunbridge Wells’ but to say that most students wanted to develop their sexuality within meaningful relationships. After prayerful thought, we wrote an article for the following week's issue of Platform. The response has been very positive. One student said, "I wouldn't have bothered responding to the article myself, but I’m really glad someone responded suggesting a more Christian view of sexuality."

Gilbraltar is headline news at the moment. 5 years ago Methodists here became part of the London S.W. District. The church has been growing: 6 young people have become members, and the congregation has been swelled by people coming to Gib to work and live. The Rev. Wilf Pearce says: “Our membership is up by 26 in the last year or so, and attendances are being maintained: it’s very encouraging.” Gibraltar’s Methodists, like most of the population, remain firm in their desire to be British.

We’ve re-furbished a corner shop. We use it as our worship centre, and we’re also trying to promote it for community use. We’ve employed a part-time centre manager to work on this. We sent out a 'professional’ leaflet canvassing the locality for what they would like to see happening, with a freepost tear-off slip for reply. We were very pleased with the number returned, and are now trying to put on some of the activities suggested. (Keep fit was top of the list!)

Like many churches, we print weekly notices. We also email them every Friday. ‘Customers’ include students and people working away from home, and even members on holiday who compete to be the most distant readers! More than 30 are now on the email list, including members of other local churches. We’ve set up an e-group so that any member can send an email to all the others. We’ve circulated everything from a piano offer to prayer requests – and the arrival of the swifts on May 3rd.

These stories all came from responses to the first edition of the national e-mail magazine. THE BUZZ can be sent monthly to any email address. If you want it, or if you have a story, just email ‘Mailing’ or ‘Story’ to rogerhutchings@methodistchurch.org.uk

THE METHODIST PRAYER HANDBOOK 2003
We have received advance ordering information from Methodist Publishing House for next year’s Prayer Handbook – “No Easy Peace”. The price for these (either standard or large print versions) is £2 per copy (plus 30p postage), however if we can get together an order for more than 10 copies the price will drop to £1.75 plus 27p postage, or if we reach 30 copies the postage is free. If you want to join in a bulk order please let me have your requirements at the circuit office before the 26th July.

LOCAL PREACHERS
It is with mixed feelings that we say “bon voyage” to Basil and Grace Knights from Clowne. They are moving to be nearer their family in Epworth—not too far, but far enough to take them out of our circuit. They have been local preachers for many years and have served the circuit well as preachers and in other capacities. We wish them well in their new surroundings and hope that they will remember us as we remember them.
This month, we also welcome back David and Trish Presson from their sojourn in Nuneaton (and other places further afield). They have returned to their home in Calow—until the next time God calls.

SITUATION VACANT
For the last ten years, Grace Knights has been the circuit contact for Methodist Homes. With her departure, we are looking for someone to take over this position. If you would like to be the circuit representative please contact Peter or Mark.

Other Events Notified

Youth for Christ are organising two weekend training conferences for full time and part time youth workers in July. If anyone would like details – check in the circuit office.

To commemorate the life of Herbert Silverwood, the Cliff College Development Scheme Appeal have organised an open day at Birthwaite Hall Farm (in the Barnsley circuit – for directions contact the circuit office) on Saturday 27 July.
There will be guided Farm walks at 11 am, 3 pm and 7 pm and refreshments served 10 am – 12 noon, 2 pm – 4 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm

Circuit Meetings and Other Church Events

July 2002

1    Circuit Prayer Meeting                     7.30 pm               Duckmanton
12 Circuit Prayer Meeting                     7.30 pm          New Brimington
13 Strawberry Tea                                2-4 pm                       Bolsover
13 Children’s Event                                                   Rotherham Circuit
15 Sisterhood Anniversary Rally          3.00 pm                      Staveley
20 Men’s Breakfast Meeting                 8.30 am                      Staveley
22 Circuit Prayer Meeting                     7.30 pm                        Clowne
27 Open Day at Birthwaite Farm
29 Network Teas                                   3.00 pm                     Bolsover

August 2002

2    Circuit Prayer Meeting                     7.30 pm                   Barrow Hill
5    Network Teas                                   3.00 pm                     Bolsover
12 Network Teas                                   3.00 pm                     Bolsover
12 Circuit Prayer Meeting                     7.30 pm                      Hillstown
17 Men’s Breakfast Meeting (AGM)     8.30 am                      Staveley
19 Network Teas                                   3.00 pm                     Bolsover
23 Circuit Prayer Meeting                     7.30 pm                      Staveley

Our Vision

July 2002 No 13

Other Events Notified

Circuit Meetings and Other Church Events

July 2002

August 2002