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The Parish Magazine of St Mary, West Malling,
St Michael, Offham & St Gabriel, Kings Hill
November 2015 Contributions Welcomed
Maximilian Kolbe Priest and Martyr – See p. 2
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How to Get in Touch
The United Benefice of West Malling with Offham
Priest-in-Charge: Revd David Green 01732 842245 [email protected] The Vicarage, 138 High Street, West Malling ME19 6NE Reader: Margaret Moore 01732 841238 Licensed Lay Minister: Becky Clifford 01732 845634
St Mary, West Malling Churchwarden: John Musker 01732 849109 Sunday School: Kerry Green 01732 842245 Tower Captain: Nick Crutchfield 01732 845187 Mothers’ Union: Gail Crutchfield 01732 845187 www.stmaryswestmalling.org.uk St Michael, Offham Churchwardens: Robin Stranack 07881 300742 Stephen Betts 01732 843412 www.stmichaelsoffham.org.uk St Gabriel, Kings Hill Priest Missioner: Revd Mark Montgomery 01732 844198 [email protected] Church Council: Jim & Freda Smith 01732 220954 Girls’ Brigade: Karen Webber 01732 875091 www.stgabrielskingshill.org.uk Pilsdon at Malling Community Guardian: 01732 870279 [email protected] Pilsdon at Malling, 27 Water Lane, West Malling ME19 6HH
Parish Magazine Editor: Becky Clifford 01732 845634 Advertising: Sue Elson 01732 845583 Distribution: Terry Hill 01732 848100 [email protected]
This magazine is available for email distribution as a PDF: if you would prefer to receive it in this format, please contact me using one of the methods above and we will arrange for you to be added to our mailing list. We NEVER supply your details to third parties. We offer free publicity for community events or charitable concerns. The Editor reserves the right to modify any material submitted for publication. The views expressed by contributors are those of the authors; copyright for articles rests with contributors. If you would like to use any of the material, please contact the Editor for permission.
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From the Editor
For five decades Franciszek Gajowniczek made an annual pilgrimage to Auschwitz, the camp in which he was incarcerated for more than five years to honour the memory of a remarkable man: Maximilian Kolbe.
Maximilian was born Raymond Kolbe in January 1894 in a village near Lodz, Poland. As a child he had a vision of the Virgin Mary, holding a red and a white crown. He later wrote,
‘She asked if I was willing to accept either of these crowns. The white one meant I should persevere in purity, and the red that I should become a martyr. I said that I would accept both.’
At sixteen, Kolbe entered a Franciscan order, taking the name ‘Maximilian’. He studied in Rome and was ordained in 1919. He returned to Poland, taught in a seminary and built a friary west of Warsaw in which over 760 Franciscans lived. He spent six years in Asia, founding friaries in Nagasaki and in India and returned to supervise his friary in Warsaw in 1936.
When the Nazis invaded Poland in 1939, he knew that the friary would be seized; the Nazis targeted places of learning – potential hotbeds of resistance. He was imprisoned briefly and released. Returning to the Friary, he and the remaining friars sheltered 3,000 displaced Poles of whom two thousand were Jews. Inevitably the Friary came under suspicion and was routed; Maximilian and his fellow friars were incarcerated in the death camp.
To deter escapees, the Nazis would kill ten men for every absconder. In July 1941 a man from Kolbe’s bunker went missing; ten men were selected to die, including Franciszek. He cried out, ‘My poor wife, my poor children! What will they do?’
Kolbe stepped forward. He asked if he could take Franciszek’s place. Astonishingly, the Nazi Commandant agreed and Franciszek was returned to the ranks. He later recalled,
‘I could only thank him with my eyes. I was stunned and could hardly grasp what was going on. The immensity of it: I, the condemned, am to live and someone else willingly and voluntarily offers his life for me – a stranger. Is this some dream?’
Maximilian Kolbe went, with the nine other men into the starvation cell in Building 13. He encouraged his fellow prisoners with prayers, hymns, psalms and meditating on the Passion of Christ. Astonishingly, after two weeks, Kolbe and three others were still alive. The cell was needed for other victims so the camp executioner, Bock, gave the men lethal injections. Kolbe was the last of the prisoners to receive this in the late summer of 1941.
The cell where Father Kolbe died is visited by millions each year and his story is told in its stark surroundings. Franciszek visited Auschwitz annually on 14th August; it has become the date on which we remember St Maximilian Kolbe. Franciszek lived into his mid-nineties.
Father Kolbe’s story is an echo of another’s which ended not in a cell, but on a cross. That wasn’t the end – because that death was transformed into new life. It was the inspiration and strength behind Kolbe’s sacrifice: a beacon of hope to the future and everlasting life.
With very best wishes, Becky
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From David If you were a child of the 1980s like me, you will be very aware that in the 1985 film Back to the Future, the hero Marty McFly and his wise mentor Doc Brown travelled back and forth in time. The second film of that movie trilogy was newsworthy this month as, in that film, Marty and Doc Brown visited the 21st of October 2015!
Let’s not pretend that Back to the Future II’s vision of the future resembles our world in any meaningful way but they did get some things right. Flying drones, flat screen TVs and tech-enabled glasses are with us, and technically-speaking we do have actual hoverboards. Meanwhile Nike have engineered a limited edition run of self-tying trainers to celebrate the film’s ‘anniversary’ and Michael J Fox was given the very first pair! On the other hand, we definitely don’t have fusion-powered appliances that can use rubbish for fuel, or flying cars with motorway signs in the sky.
Having lived through that film’s vision of the future (and loved it), it’s interesting now to reflect on what we have gained and what we have lost since 1985, what we anticipated correctly, and what we couldn’t foresee.
How has life changed for you in the last thirty years? Could you see it coming? I hope there have been positives to go with the negatives, and that you can see a divine fingerprint at work in the graces and blessings of life.
Ralph Abernathy was a leader in the American Civil Rights Movement, a Christian minister and a close friend of Dr Martin Luther King. He once said “I do not know what the future holds, but I know who holds my future.”
If we could fast-forward another 30 years to 2045, I can’t even begin to imagine what our world would look like. I hope we will have learnt to take care of our planet to ensure it is a thriving and sustainable home for the children and their children. I suspect the outlandish claims of sci-fi with flying cars, colonies on the moon or perhaps ‘virtual’ Vicars may not be anywhere close; progress is always gradual and blended with remnants of the past. A cursory look around any home will tell you that with its mix of new technology and old wallpaper, an antique clock next to an iPad. But I do know that my Christian convictions in a God of eternity give me hope that, whether life brings me joy or sadness, tragedy or triumph, I will walk the path in the company of One who holds me and my future securely.
This month in church, it’s Memorial season and also Kingdom season. Remembrance Sunday, and special services on the 1st and 3rd of November (see the next page) give different groups of people time to remember the past and, especially, loved ones who are no longer with us; those who served and fought for us, loved ones who have died and babies and children who left us too soon. But it’s done in the context of Kingdom season - a time when we look forward to God’s Kingdom come and we anticipate our home in heaven.
We look back in order to look to God’s future. I hope you may join me in prayer and worship, at one or more of those services, in order to do the same.
David
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What’s on at St Mary’s
At our October meeting we enjoyed a reflection on “Fruits of the Spirit” led by Margaret Moore. Next month on 9th November we look forward to hearing about “Women in the Bible” and our speaker is Helen Cooke.
This will be held in the Church Centre at 2:30 pm and all are welcome.
Thank you to all who baked cakes and all who bought cakes at our cake sale. We raised £81 which will be split between M.U. and St Mary’s Church. Gail Crutchfield
Congratulations to the ten riders and seven church ‘sitters’ some of whom braved the rather chilly elements whilst a wedding was taking place in St Mary’s. It was also Heritage Weekend so there was lots going on! A cheque for £850 has been sent to Friends of Kent Churches of which half will come back to St Mary’s.
Thank you, too, to all who sponsored our intrepid riders and striders. Your money will help Friends of Kent Churches to continue its valuable work. Mary Gibbins
In Loving Memory A service to remember babies lost in pregnancy and beyond
Tuesday, 3rd November, 7:30 pm St Mary’s, West Malling
www.stmaryswestmalling.org.uk Please ring Becky 01732 845634
for further details
All Saints’ Annual Memorial Service
Sunday 1st November 6:00 pm
St Mary’s, West Malling
A service of prayer and remembrance for all who have lost a loved one
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Public Meeting about West Malling Church Centre Revd David Green addressed the meeting, hosted by Councillor Trudy Dean, Chair of the Parish Council. The Parochial Church Council (PCC) had asked for a public meeting to be able to explain why a planning application had been submitted for change of use to residential.
Trudy explained that the role of West Malling Parish Council was as a consultee. In sensitive planning issues, their dedicated planning sub-committee can make representations to the borough council – Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council (TMBC) but it was the responsibility of the planning committee at the borough council to decide whether or not to approve the plans. She asked that questions be kept until the end of David’s presentation.
Trudy said the church authorities were very aware that the building holds fond memories for many residents, but it does require extensive repairs and currently costs the church a great deal. A planning application has been submitted to TMBC. All the information will be on the council’s website within the next two weeks. One of the reasons for holding the meeting in West Malling Primary School was because the Church Centre does not have the capacity to hold such a meeting.
David thanked everyone for attending; some would be familiar with the story of the Church Centre, others might not, so he briefly outlined its history from his perspective.
When he arrived in 2011, it was clear something needed to be done with the Church Centre. In minutes in the 1990s, the PCC had discussed its drain on resources and viability. Even when the pre-school was present, the building still made a loss. Since 2007 it has run at a deficit of over £28,000. With an income over that period of around £50,000 the outgoings were over £78,000. When the ownership of the pre-school changed, they were really pro-active – they painted and decorated. Even so, they received a sub-par EHO inspection which then impacted on their otherwise wonderful OfSTED inspection. It was – and remains – a money pit. In 2011, Mark Trevett, the diocesan surveyor said that it was beyond economic repair – which was a polite way of telling us it would continue to be a money pit.
When the pre-school relocated to West Malling Primary School, the PCC was faced with some tough decisions. Three options emerged:
1. Do nothing and carry on as we are. The deteriorating condition of the building and its detached location together with lack of parking makes it unattractive to potential hirers. To keep it wind and watertight costs the church £3,500 a year.
2. Renovate it. To refurbish it in its current configuration would cost in the region of £300,000. However, to be economically viable it would need to be reconfigured to create a usable hall space. That would cost a great deal more. It is estimated that the annual running costs would be around £5,000 and a ‘sink fund’ of £3,500 would be needed to cope with ongoing repairs. If West Malling needs the Church Centre as a community space, there is the option to do that.
3. Sell it. As a registered charity, the PCC has a duty to sell it at ‘best value’ – but that isn’t just about money, it’s about reputation, or ethical considerations. We were informed that it would be more valuable if sold with planning consent. It became clear, too, that if the PCC applied for planning consent and put restrictive covenants in place, there
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was greater control over what a developer could do. Without planning permission, the PCC would have no control. The PCC engaged Derek Hudson, an architect, to develop a range of plans for the Church Centre. He came up with several options, the most extreme of which was to demolish the existing building and build ten residential units on the site. The PCC opted for a scheme to retain the existing building split into three dwellings and two additional homes in the footprint created by the demolition of the outside toilets and air raid shelters. There is provision for 12 parking spaces (two for each proposed dwelling and two extra) as traffic, access and parking are issues.
The PCC had come to the conclusion that doing nothing was not really a viable option; thousands of pounds had already gone into the building from the donations of parishioners and that was unsustainable. It was important to do something with the Church Centre that was sympathetic to its surroundings and would protect the value of the homes in its vicinity.
Even if St Mary’s had all the facilities it needed, it still couldn’t afford the Church Centre.
David noted that the PCC have yet to make the decision to sell the Church Centre. However, unless somebody can donate a significant sum to renovate the building, its sale is the most likely option.
Wide ranging questions from the floor followed:
Q: Can you give any assurance that the existing building will not be demolished? A: If the building is sold with planning permission in place, there will be restrictive covenants to ensure the existing building is retained. If it is sold without planning permission the PCC will have no control over the developer’s plans.
Q: Could the planning just be for conversion of the current building given traffic concerns? A: As Trustees of the building the PCC is walking a tightrope between what is ‘best value’ and what the residents of Churchfields would prefer. The Charity Commission will call the PCC to account for their decisions and it is a difficult balancing act. Different opinions of what ‘best value’ actually means is something of a grey area. It would be up to TMBC to look at the issues and come to a view and make that known to the PCC.
Q: Would the plans involve closing the road for construction of the buildings? A: Trudy said that when TMBC consider an application, concern about how the building is going to be constructed is not an issue for discussion. David added that the PCC was very aware of the potential impact on Churchfields’ residents. Initial discussions had included exploring using the churchyard for access or whether the owner of the field to the rear of the Church Centre might allow temporary access over his road and land.
Q: There are surveys being carried out in the field behind the Church Centre. Would approval of the Church Centre application give additional weight to any plans for that field? A: TMBC has received an application for ‘Call to Site’ – essentially a precursor to planning permission. TMBC had received three applications for development in the 1970s from its owner (then Richard Lambert) and each time the plans were rejected. From memory, Trudy thought the land was green belt. The current guidance is to preserve this.
Q: How will the additional development affect the views from Churchfields?
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A: The proposed additional housing would be built behind the existing building (not at the front as misreported in the Kent Messenger) on the site of one of the air raid shelters. The view looking from Churchfields up to the church would not be affected; the development would be hidden by the existing building, just as the current air raid shelter is. Any minor changes to the view from St Mary’s into Churchfields would be masked by the trees which are in situ.
Q: Why does the proposed new housing need to be in red brick? Couldn’t it be in ragstone? A: This was a detail of the plans which could be looked into. However, buildings in the vicinity (including the Scared Crow) are brick built.
Q: Where will the proceeds from the sale of the Church Centre go? A: The Church Centre was purchased in 1979 and around 20% of the purchase price came from a ‘Sunday School Fund’. Therefore, 20% of any monies raised would need to go into facilities for the current Sunday School. The PCC envisaged using the money to improve St Mary’s; toilet and refreshment facilities being at the top of a very long list. David explained that any works to the church would require a faculty (official permission) from the diocese and that part of that process was to ensure that any changes enhance the building. That means, in practice, using traditional materials which is an expensive proposition.
Q: How will the new church proposed at Kings Hill impact on St Mary’s? A: Most of Kings Hill lies within the ecclesiastical parish of West Malling. Plans for a new church which would also provide much needed additional community space there are taking shape. Financing the building of the new church is the responsibility of the Diocese of Rochester. About half the money is already in place; applications for grants from various bodies have been submitted. The congregation of St Gabriel’s would be raising funds for fitting out the new building.
Q: Would the hedge running along Churchfields be affected by the proposed plans? A: There is no suggestion that the hedge (planted by TMBC) would be affected in any way.
Q: What kind of timescale is there for the application? A: Once the plans have been received, there is a consultation period of around 4 weeks. Planning is a public process so all interested parties are invited to make representation.
Q: Would the community have a stronger voice if we engaged with the Neighbourhood Plan?
A: The Neighbourhood Plan is a very time-consuming, bureaucratic process which involves getting a high percentage of the community voting for it, so although some plans have been developed, none to date have been approved. TMBC would prefer to engage with local communities on planning issues through direct consultation.
Q: How can you make an objection to the proposal?
A: You can write to TMBC. Once the details of the proposed plans are uploaded onto the website, you can respond via email. The closing date is before Christmas.
David assured everyone that the PCC has no desire to make this into an adversarial process and that we will continue to keep the lines of communication open. If the current plans are rejected by TMBC, the PCC would reconsider their options.
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Christmas Services at St Mary’s Sunday, 20th December, 7:00 pm A candle-lit service based on the Nine Lessons and Carols format with lots of carol singing for the congregation.
Christmas Eve, Thursday, 24th December, 3:30 pm A candle-lit service with Nativity play from St Mary’s Sunday School and lots of carol singing. Christingles will be distributed at the end for children. Come early to avoid disappointment. If you miss out, you might like to come to the service at 5:00 pm.
Christmas Eve, Thursday 24th December, 5:00 pm Another chance to come to a candle-lit Nativity play, with lots of carol singing, to get you into the Christmas spirit. Christingles will be distributed at the end. Doors will open at 4:30 pm.
Christmas Eve, Thursday 24th December, 11:15 pm The first service on Christmas Day is a traditional Midnight Mass with carols and Holy Communion.
Christmas Day, Friday 25th December, 8:00 am Book of Common Prayer, Holy Communion
Christmas Day, Friday 25th December, 11:00 am Children young and old are encouraged to bring one of their presents to this family-friendly Holy Communion Service to show everyone.
Scratch Choir for the Christingle Services
If you enjoy singing carols and would like to help lead the congregations at either (or both) of the Christingle Services at 3:30 pm and 5:00 pm, please put the times and date in your diary and contact Becky on 01732 845634 / 07564 944765 or email her ([email protected]) The format is yet to be finalized but in the main we’ll be singing well known carols. You don’t have to be able to read music, just enjoy singing and being part of a choir. A rehearsal or three will be organized in December.
Becky Clifford
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Rooms for Hire (Ground floor with disabled access and first floor)
Malling Memorial Institute 9 High Street, West Malling
£15 per session (am/pm/eve) To book: Alastair Loxton
01732 875559 [email protected]
Quiz Night
Saturday 14th November 7:30 pm for 7:45 pm start at West Malling Primary School
£7 per ticket (includes fish and chip supper)
Tables of 8 BYO drinks & glasses
Further information from: [email protected]
In aid of:
West Malling School PTA & St Mary the Virgin, West Malling
Remembrance Day at St Mary’s
Sunday, 8th November 11:00 am
Act of Remembrance & Holy Communion
2:30 pm Civic Service of Remembrance
Wednesday, 11th November 11:00 am
Two minutes’ silence and Act of Remembrance
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St Michael’s Offham News & Muse All who cycled or walked from Offham for the Friends of Kent Churches thank those who so generously sponsored them. They managed to raise the grand total of £915 and so a very big thank you from Nicola Mackrill, our local organiser, to those who took part and to our generous sponsors.
Offham Methodist Church
Colin Wolfe writes:
Our Autumn Sale received great support and was well supported by village folk, coming together over a cup of tea and making stall purchases that raised £300, including donations. Thank you to all who came and joined us at this event.
Our “Tea & Chat” continues on the first Tuesday of the month – 3rd November this month and 1st December next month, meeting in our hall from 2.00 until 4.00 pm; you are invited to come and join us to meet old friends and may be some new ones over a cup of tea.
Offham Open House meets at 10.00 am on 5th November when Anne Carter will give a talk on the history of Guy Fawkes. The meeting will be held at the home of Pam Begbey – Larkrise, North Meadow.
The meeting the following month will be a Christmas Lunch on Saturday, 5th December in the Penshurst Room at The Holiday Inn,
Wrotham Heath, when partners will be welcome to attend.
The Annual Trivial Pursuits evening will be held in the Village Hall on Saturday, 14th November at 8.00 pm (doors open at 7.45 pm). Entry is strictly by ticket only and is almost fully booked. Further details from the Chairman (Mike Rowe); the ticket includes a ploughman’s supper and a glass of wine - glasses will be provided – please bring along your own
drink and nibbles. It is regretted that payment for tables cannot be accepted on the evening.
Malling Art Club was formed in 1978 to promote an interest in art, particularly painting and drawing by means of tuition, art demonstrations, workshops and exhibitions. The Club has 65 members and monthly meetings are held on the last Thursday of each month at Offham Village Hall commencing at 8:00 pm, covering a wide range of
subjects. The Annual Exhibition is being held in the Hall over the weekend Friday 30th October to Sunday 1st November when members’ work will be on display. If you wish to come along and sample a meeting, there is a charge of £4 per visitor or if you wish to join the Club please collect one of the subscription notices. The Club very much looks forward to welcoming new members.
The Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday, 26th November.
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Offham Travelling Nativity
Be part of the second Travelling Nativity in Advent! Based on the South American Posada (meaning Inn) the Travelling Nativity is for everyone, young and old. During the 9:15 am service on Advent Sunday, 29th November, the crib figures of Mary, Joseph and a donkey will be given to the first host family. Each night during Advent, the figures travel from one location to the next and are given warmth and shelter for the night. They will return to St Michael’s on Christmas Eve. Along with the figures, there is a sheet of prayers and a candle to light.
We want everyone to feel included: if you are housebound, we can arrange to transport the crib figures for you, or the next host family can come and collect them. It’s hoped that, when delivering or collecting the figures, you’ll find time to chat – or even have a cup of tea – with the next hosts. You will know who is bringing the figures to you and you’ll have their phone number, so mutually convenient arrangements can be made.
The Nativity figures will travel literally miles around our community, the journey through dark and cold, the anticipation of the comfort, warmth and welcome of businesses and homes. In the pre-Christmas rush of work, preparation, shopping, cooking and carol concerts, the intrusion of extra guests may seem the last thing we need! But perhaps making a little extra effort will bring new friendships and give us an opportunity to take time out to reflect on the real meaning of Advent: God’s message of hope to us and the promise of love given
us in the Christ-child.
If you would like to offer the Travelling Nativity shelter, please fill in the enclosed slip and return it or for further information 01732 848709. Jane Jordan
Dates for your Diary: Christmas Services at St Michael's
Sunday, 13th December – Christingle Service at 4:00 pm
Friday, 18th December – Candle-lit Carol service at 8:00 pm
Christmas Day – All Age Service with Holy Communion at 9:15 am
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For the Parish Registers
St Mary, West Malling
Wedding Baptism 30th October Stuart Parker & 11th October Arlo Denny Jennifer Lambourne 11th October Samuel Cross Funeral 18th October Lacey Holmes 27th October Arthur Carr
St Michael, Offham
Baptism
10th October Victoria Catherine Helme
Offham Village Hall Christmas Dance
Saturday, 12th December 2015 | Doors open at 7:30 pm
Cult 45’s on stage from 8:00 pm
Tickets £15 per person – includes light Christmas supper Ticket hotline – Val - 01732 521708
*Raffle*BYO drinks & glasses*
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Greetings from St Gabriel’s From Mark
November has always been the middle month for me. In terms of my previous ministry it was far enough from the summer to advertise and run training events, but not close enough to Christmas for people to worry that the impending celebration’s too near not to be able to come. This always meant that November was a very busy month. And strangely that’s the same for us in St Gabriel’s as well. We start November with the Light Party and All Saints Day, in the middle we lead the community Act of Remembrance, and have our church survey, and finally at the end of the month we start the Advent Season as we turn our focus to the waiting period before Christmas where we celebrate Christ’s coming into the world.
The theme of light is also key in the month of November. As the nights get darker and colder, the Church focuses on the Light of Christ shining and coming into the world. As we celebrate the Saints at the beginning of the month, who are known as people who shine Christ’s Light in the world, we then focus our attention at the end of the month in preparation for the coming Christ Light. We must remember that we are called to be and take the Light of Christ into our community and the places we live and work.
So as you go about your day to day lives, as you help with the Light Party, the survey, the Remembrance Service, remember that we are the Light of Christ in this community. What we do and how we act, shows what our faith means to us. As I pray for this month, and give thanks for the welcome you have given us, please pray for me as I also take Christ’s Light into the community. Mark
Remembrance Sunday, 8th November at 10:30 am St Gabriel’s will be joining Kings Hill Christian Fellowship for a service of Remembrance at the Community Centre which will include an Act of Remembrance at the Running Airman, a brief stroll from the centre and within sight of the control tower.
Kings Hill is built on the site of the former West Malling airfield. Guy Gibson (of Dambusters fame) was stationed here from April to December 1940 and was billeted at Claire Park, near East Malling. He said, ‘Of all the airfields in Great Britain, here… we have the most pleasant.’
It’s a significant and symbolic place in which to remember those who fought for our freedom.
Mark will be leading the service; Matt will be preaching. Please come and join us.
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Follow the Star in Advent This Advent it’s time to Follow the Star to Christmas. It’s an interactive event (a sort of treasure hunt) popping up throughout December on Kings Hill. From 1st December, check out St Gabriel’s website at http://www.kingshillchurch.org.uk for more information.
Christmas Services at St Gabriel’s Sunday, 20th December, 4:00 pm – Christingle Service, Community Centre, KH We join Kings Hill Christian Fellowship for a family-friendly service with Christingle making and lots of carols. Thursday, 24th December, 4:00 pm – Messy Nativity, Discovery School, KH Children’s Christmas Craft activities from 4:00 – 4:45 pm, followed by a ‘scratch’ Nativity service for anyone dressed in a Nativity outfit can join in. Costumes provided for children who turn up without.
Friday, 25th December, 9:30 am – All-Age Service, Discovery School, KH
Children young and old are encouraged to bring along one of their presents to show everyone. A brief Holy Communion will be said in the Small Hall after the service.
Sunday, 27th December, 9:30 am – Holy Communion, Discovery School, KH
Come along to give thanks for the amazing gift of the Son of God, Emmanuel – God with us.
Shine Brighter
Wednesday 4th November 7:30 pm
‘Outrageous Love’
Wednesday 18th November 7:30 pm
‘Outrageous Persistence’
Please see weekly notice sheet for venue
St Gabriel’s Survey Can you help? You will need to:
• have access to an iPad • be happy to talk • be available on one of
the following dates: 9, 10, 11, 12 or 14 November
We will survey the 3 schools from 8:45–9:15 and 3:00-4:00 Asda/Waitrose – Thursday pm, Saturday am Girls Brigade: 7:00-7:30pm
Please fill in the following form & Mark will be in touch.
http://doodle.com/poll/vezs5p2iwdpyfqng
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Sermon for Bible Sunday
John 5.36b-47
The Bible Society has been doing some research and here it is:
• 9 out of 10 adults have no regular engagement with the Bible • 45% of children never hear or read Bible stories • 43% of children have never seen, heard or read the crucifixion story • Nearly 20% of children think that Harry Potter is a Bible story • The value of the Bible is in its use: we must use it or lose it • Bibles come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colours – for all sorts of people • You can listen to or read the Bible on your tablet or smart phone • The Bible Society needs help to keep the Bible’s message alive to today’s
and tomorrow’s generations*
We’ve been looking at encounters with Jesus over the past few weeks.
This morning we read of a very strong and powerful first encounter with Jesus, of Jesus testifying and challenging all who were listening about their faith and attitude towards him. He goes back to what I was saying the other day – if you don’t give Jesus your whole heart then what’s the point? And our reading from John explains this:
He says you search the scriptures to find eternal life, but refuse to come to me? You refuse to give your whole life to me?
Our encounters are live but also through scripture:
How many time have you read the Bible and been floored? That is an encounter with Jesus.
It’s through our encounters in scripture that we learn to live and are changed.
It’s not just through a Sunday encounter – through what you’ve heard up front.
Oh and by the way – just because I’m in front of you doesn’t mean to say I’ve got it all right – so if you disagree, that’s fine. Let’s have a conversation – it’s been great to start having that over the songs we sing, the way our services run and so
on. Today is Bible Sunday
A day where we are encouraged to promote the reading of the Bible – I actually think every Sunday should be Bible Sunday. If you’re struggling to be enthused, here are some startling facts:
The Bible is a library of 66 books, written over around 1,500 years by about 40 different authors. It contains legal documents, history, stories, poetry and more.
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The first part of the New Testament to be written – the part of the Bible which tells of the life of Jesus and the new church which followed in his footsteps – were the letters from the Apostles and the gospels. At the time, people thought Jesus would return quickly so there seemed no need to record what had happened straight away as there were plenty of eye-witness accounts.
The church historian Eusebius confirmed that by 118 AD missionaries were carrying around collections of these writings. It is thought that Christians invented books (writings were on scrolls or tablets which were much more difficult to transport).
The Bible does contain legal material and instructions, but the vast majority of it concerns relationships and stories: more like ‘hints and tips’ of how to live.
One of the most enjoyable things in my life right now is reading with Bella. Whenever we read together, we’ll talk about the story, ask questions, explore what it means. We’ll do that whether we’re reading a story or reading something from the Bible. It’s great fun. It means I get to know what she thinks and how she reacts to different things, it helps me know her better. There’s something really special about spending time talking about what you’ve read.
My challenge to you is to read Mark’s gospel this week, so that next week you can come back and discuss it. You can listen to it online if you haven’t time to sit down and read it: (https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/audio/).
As you read or listen, think about what stands out to you, and answer the question - what have I noticed reading it today that I have not noticed before?
There will be fresh coffee/tea and pastries on Sunday morning (November 1st at 8:45) for all those who want to come and chat. Mark Montgomery
* If you would like to help the Bible Society to Pass It On you can make a donation through their website: biblesunday.org
Advent Cluster Service Sunday 29th November, 5:00 pm
St Lawrence, Mereworth Join us to mark the start of our preparations for
the coming of the Christ child.
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In the Garden with Adam’s Gardens Well, after praising October in my last column, November is a tough month. There is plenty of heavy duty work to be done with not a lot of reward for it. Take, for instance, leaf clearing. I visit my larger gardens, one acre and above, every week. With any garden bigger than a football pitch there are trees and more than just a couple! So I turn up with blower in hand (actually on my back). I wouldn’t even attempt raking as the will to live would diminish after 10m² of pulling the large burnt orange, dirty yellow, crimson red and caramel brown debris that you call leaves but I call confetti. It makes my life style choice sound much more glamorous don’t you think? Now don’t get me wrong, blowing leaves across a lawn into piles to collect can be fun in its own little way (mainly for my dog, Monty who loves diving into them). But 2-3 hours later you realise that you now have to load them up into the wheelbarrow to place them into the leaf pen, which is always at the far reaches of the garden with the compost heap – which is understandable – who wants to see decomposing leaves and compost when you look out into your back garden? You may be thinking that I may be having a little whinge about a bit of hard work. Far from it, the clearing and collecting can be tough but I chose to be a gardener and knew the highs and lows that would litter my path (no pun intended) but it sometimes feels a bit frustrating. Yes, after clearing the autumn confetti, my client’s garden once again looks tidy and the lawn green and healthy. However, the clocks have now gone back and my client won’t be home until the sun sets and by the time they can look out onto the prized garden at the weekend another tree wedding has taken place and the confetti once again adorns their lawn. It’s just a bit soul destroying knowing that your hard work is not benefiting the person that matters. So why not leave them there for a couple of weeks and save all that effort? Letting fallen leaves lie on lawns deprives them of valuable light (which as we know is in short supply now) to keep the grass strong – it quickly rots under decaying leaves. Clearing also helps prevent worm casts as worms won’t venture to well-lit surfaces looking for nourishment to take underground; leaves are a favourite of theirs. Whilst worms do wonders to the soil by aerating it, for the lawn they’re a menace, as the casts they create tend to be trodden in leaving areas of clear soil for dandelions, clover and moss to take advantage of. There is one real reward to all this clearing and collecting of leaves but we’ll need to be patient – and that is leaf mould. This is a wonderful soil conditioner that can be used in potting compost or just mulching a border. Haven't got space for a leaf pen? Put them in a black bin liner making sure they are wet, tie it up, puncture a few holes for ventilation and put it somewhere out of sight. Twelve months later, hey-presto! Lovely, crumbly leaf mould to use as you please. Maybe November isn’t so bad after all for us gardeners! Adam McKay 07957 461958 | 01732 846796 | [email protected]
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St Gabriel’s, Discovery School, Kings Hill Sunday 9:30 am Holy Communion*
Offham Methodist Church Sunday 11:00 am Worship
Calendar – Regular Events (*unless otherwise stated)
November 2015
1st All Saints Day – Services as above except for… 9:15 am All Age Service St Michael, Offham 11:00 am All Age Service St Mary, West Malling 6:00 pm Annual Memorial Service St Mary, West Malling 2nd 8:00 pm Cluster Prayer Meeting Brian & Jenny’s home 3rd 2:00 pm Tea & Chat Methodist Hall, Offham 7:30 pm In Loving Memory Service St Mary, West Malling 8:00 pm Ransom/Fortnum Homegroup 4th 8:00 pm Cooke/Betts Homegroup 8th Remembrance Sunday – Services as above except for… 10:30 am Remembrance Service with KHCF Running Airman & C Centre 11:00 am Act of Remembrance & Service St Mary, West Malling 2:30 pm Civic Service of Remembrance 9th 2:30 pm Mothers’ Union Church Centre, West Malling 8:00 pm Offham PCC Methodist Hall, Offham 10th 8:00 pm West Malling PCC Church Centre, West Malling 11th 11:00 am Act of Remembrance War Memorial, St Mary’s 14th 7:30 pm Quiz Night – see p. 16 West Malling Primary School 15th Second before Advent
9:15 am Morning Prayer St Michael, Offham 11:00 am Morning Prayer St Mary, West Malling
17th 8:00 pm Ransom/Fortnum Homegroup 18th 8:00 pm Cooke/Betts Homegroup
21st 8:00 am Breakfast Prayers for the Cluster Jules & Vikki’s home 22nd Christ the King – Services as above 29th Advent Sunday – Services as above 2:30 pm Christmas Lights West Malling High Street 5:00 pm Advent Cluster Service St Lawrence, Mereworth
St Michael’s, Offham Sunday 9:15 am Holy Communion*
St Mary’s, West Malling Sunday 8:00 am Holy Communion (BCP) 11:00 am Holy Communion* (Common Worship) Monday 7:45 pm Bell Ringing Tuesday 10:00 am Morning Prayer
Barn Chapel, Pilsdon at Malling Wednesday 12 noon Holy Communion Sunday 4:00 pm Open House Tea 6:00 pm Holy Communion
