Concord Magazine - Parish of Morpeth

Concord Magazine
FEBRUARY 2016
www.parishofmorpeth.org.uk
2
Phil Walker APFS
Chartered Financial Planner
Specialist advice in a wide range of areas including:

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
Retirement Planning

Inheritance Tax Saving

Long Term Care Planning
St. James's Place Partnership
19E The Milkhope Centre, Berwick Hill Road,
Blagdon, Northumberland, NE13 6DA
Tel: 01670 789797 or 07711 556332 Fax: 01670 789963
Email: phil.walker@sjpp.co.uk Web: sjpp.co.uk/philwalker
Morpeth Mental Health Group
7 Grey's Yard
Oldgate
Morpeth
Northumberland
NE61 1QD
Offers help for people with
mental health problems,
their carers
and families.
Telephone: 01670 510 652 E-mail: con-
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Tel: 01670 520203
3
Preparation is always the key!
As Lent is upon us we start to think about getting prepared we remember the
words from St John, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord” or were those the words
of David Haskell and Godspell?
I’m always getting them mixed up! They are also the words my father used to
try and drum into me…….Not “prepare ye the way of the Lord” although he did
put many of the foundation stones of faith into my life! No his mantra was
“preparation is the key, Simon”.
When I got my first house it was the first words
he uttered which like any advice from your
father goes in one ear and out the other! My
first big scheme was to sand and paint my front
room floor!
Sanding is really boring so I gave it a quick sand
and then proceeded to splodge the paint onto
the floor. Not only did I manage to paint myself
into the corner (first piece of preparation
advice ignored!) then as the paint dried over
the slightly rough…….ok very rough floor boards
made the floor like very heavy grade sandpaper
(second piece of preparation advice ignored).
Rather than stop and think ask advice and make
better preparation I hired a sander and resolved
to remove the old paint. However I did this
whilst the paint was still tacky, as I had
forgotten to mix the paint properly (third piece
of preparation advice ignored) and made the
biggest mess you could ever imagine.
Thankfully my father came to the rescue! And
bought me a rug! If I had taken a little time out
to prepare the floor I might have saved myself a ton of time and effort.
It’s the same with Lent, so often folk think about Easter and New life,
Resurrection. All is made new. All is well because Jesus came to save us from
our sins, but unless we have prepared hearts, it just like papering over the
cracks and hoping no one finds out.
Eventually the paper will come loose and those cracks will appear.
Sometimes preparation seems to be a waste of time but if you truly want to
have a life transformed you need to really engage with God, seek what it is he
wants you to do to prepare your hearts.
Remember the
words from St
John, “Prepare
ye the way of
the Lord” or
were those the
words of David
Haskell and
Godspell?
I’m always
getting them
mixed up!
4
Do you need to make up with someone,
admit you have not been very nice and
say sorry?
Do you need to seek out a family
member you have not spoken too for a
long time and make amends?
Are there things you have done which
you need to confess?
You don’t have to look very far. God
often will put it on your heart as soon as
you have read this article. He often
works like that.
It’s when you have prepared your heart,
that the grace that God places over it
has a better chance to adhere and it
does not need a second coat, because its yours for all eternity!
That’s amazing isn’t it? A little time of preparation might change your life
completely, because without it we find ourselves trying all sorts of ways of trying
to feel good, but often land up putting the virtual rug over our hearts to hide the
real feelings we have inside.
So this Lent why not join a home group? Set a new one up! Have a word with
Simon and get the sandpaper out and prepare ye the way of the Lord!
G Bless Simon.
This year our prayer and study
groups will be following the
40Acts challenge again.
You can find out more about this stewardship programme that invites us to do
Lent generously here: http://www.40acts.org.uk/about/
40Acts encourages individuals to take a daily challenge: 40 nudges in a generous
direction, alongside 40 blogs or reflections to read and ponder. In 2015 over
74,000 joined, creating a wave of over 2.9 million acts of generosity in more than
180 countries worldwide.
If you would like to set up your own group or follow it with friends at a time to
suit you, then please contact the Rector who will help you get started. The Bin21
study group on Monday mornings started to follow the 40Acts challenge last
Lent and have kept going ever since.
5
2016- A Year of Opportunity
for our Parish
Have you ever moved house? What was it like to move into a new street, a new
area, and have to put down roots amongst a bunch of people you didn't know
before? And what was it like when you encountered your first friendly face?
That's how a lot of people are going to be experiencing Morpeth in late
2016. Our town is growing. In three distinct locations, foundations are
being laid, road systems constructed, new houses built, and new estates
starting to spring up.
What's your response? There might be understandable concerns about
increased traffic, pressure on local facilities and parking. But hundreds, maybe
thousands of new people are going to be coming to live in Morpeth over the
coming year. They'll be young families, singles of all ages, newly retired
and older, some looking to put down roots and some wanting a fresh start.
Many of them will be wanting to become part of a vibrant local community.
Many of them could well be interested in finding out about what the local
churches have got to offer.
So what could we do to welcome them? It might start with being prepared to
host some sort of welcome community events this coming autumn, introducing
new residents to local organisations and services. It might mean offering,
support, encouragement, and friendship. Our 2016 Harvest Festivals and
Christmas services could provide powerful opportunities to invite people
into experiencing the warmth of Christian community as part of our great
festive celebrations.
Have a think. For our Parish, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to
make an impact with a whole bunch of new people who could find our churches
extremely attractive communities if we go out of our way to be attractive
and imaginative in the way we serve our wider growing community.
So don't wait to be asked about this, but start thinking. Use your
imagination. What would a newcomer-friendly church look like? How might it
work? Ask around. Start talking. What could you do? What could we do? Our
shared answers could have a fascinating, powerful, long-lasting effect on
the life of our town.
Chris Hudson
6
Fancy a Prayer Walk?!
Do you ever have trouble concentrating when you sit to pray?!
Prayer walking is a great way to pray for our neighbours, communities,
workplaces and towns. It is as simple as going for a walk, and praying in
our hearts and minds for all we see.
It is ‘praying with our eyes open’ – whatever we see, we ask God to bless.
If we know about difficulties going on in the places where we walk, we
pray for them. If we have a sense of what we would love to see happen in
a place, we ask God for it.
It is also about listening to God. As we walk, we let our eyes and ears be
drawn to the things God is showing us, and things He might be saying to
us. If we are walking with someone else we might share these thoughts,
and pray for them together – either silently, or perhaps out loud.
I am going to be prayer walking in Morpeth, beginning at St Aidan’s
Church, every Wednesday morning at around 11am. If you would like to
join me, please come along. If you are unable to be there at that time, do
let me know if you’d like updates on what we are praying for - and do
pray with us too, wherever you are. Perhaps you’d even like to start your
own regular prayer walk!
It’s exciting to think that our prayers make a difference in the world – so
let’s be giving the gift of prayer to our communities, homes, places of
work – asking God to bless them, and even praying a very simple prayer:
‘Your kingdom come, your will be done.’
Beth
07496672011
revbethrookwood@gmail.com
7
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Gorgeous handmade children’s garments and alterations
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High quality machine embroidery services
A fantastic selection of hand crafted decorative folded books.
Beautiful handmade soaps, bath bombs and fragranced melts.
One to one workshops and classes
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8
Parish of Morpeth
Mothers’ Union Programme for 2016
Venue: St. James’ Church unless otherwise stated
Monday
11th January
Monday
8th February
Monday
14th March
Monday
11th April
Monday
9thMay
Monday
13th June
Saturday
9th July
2.00
pm
Enrolment
Service
2.00
pm
Annual General
Meeting
August
10.30
am
Communion
and
Hot Cross Buns
12thSeptember
7.00
pm
Beth Rookwood
“A curate’s life”
7.00
pm
Quiet Evening
Vivienne and
Cyril
2.00
to
4.00
pm
No meeting
Monday
7.00
pm
Rev. Simon
White
“M10 trip to
Mexico”
St. Aidan’s
Church
Monday
10thOctober
Monday
14thNovember
Strawberry Tea
St. Aidan’s
Church
7.00
pm
2.00
pm
2.00
pm
Fliss Tunnard
“Developing
Youth Work”
Sandra
Davison/Joan
Howard
“Walking in the
footsteps of
Jesus”
Alison Byard
“Morpeth
Mayor – a year
in office”
Monday
12th December
7.00
pm
Advent Carol
Service
9
NEWS FROM MORPETH MOTHERS UNION
On Monday 11th January, Pauline Young, was enrolled as the new Branch Leader
for Morpeth Mothers' Union. The service was held in St. James' Church and led
by Simon White (pictured right) Pauline was presented with her Branch Leader
badge by Edna Maddison, the Deanery Leader. (pictured left)
During the service, Jean Mills read out the Purpose, Aim and Objects of the
Mothers' Union which are:

The PURPOSE of the Mothers' Union is to be specially concerned with all
that strengthens and preserves marriage and Christian family life.

The AIM of the Society is the advancement of the Christian religion in the
sphere of marriage and family life.
In order to carry out its Aim, its OBJECTS are:

To uphold Christ's teaching on the nature of marriage and promote its
wider understanding.

To encourage parents to bring up their children in the faith and life of the
Church.

To maintain a worldwide fellowship of Christians united in prayer, worship
and service.

To promote conditions in society favourable to stable family life and the
protection of children.

To help those whose family life has met with adversity.
The Morpeth branch meets regularly throughout the year (see 2016 programme)
for a short service, to hear invited guests and to share fellowship. If you would
like more information about the Mothers' Union, or if you are interested in
joining our Morpeth branch, please contact Pauline Young on 01670 511407.
10
iTea and Biscuits
Have you never used a computer before?
Meet new people and get help from local 6th form students in a
fun, informal setting. You can even try out an iPad or a laptop (and
we promise you won’t break it!)
There’s no need to be terrified of technology - you will get one-toone help every step of the way. You can learn how to keep in touch
with people, research family history, save money online and much
more.
Come along and give it a go at Morpeth Library
2.25pm- 3.25pm on a Wednesday.
To book a place call (01670) 620391.
11
Travers and Grace
Plumbing and Tiling Services
Plumbing Repairs & Emergency Call Outs
Showers & Bathrooms Installed
Wall & Floor Tiling
Free Estimates
Call Derek or Christina
0777 409 4850 / 0781 888 7157
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Websites
Web design
Small business support
Local area networking
Wireless networking
Database design
Dave Pope
(Member of International Webmasters Association)
Tel: 01670 515806
Fax: 01670 519520
Mob: 0771 414 3640
dpope@morpethnet.co.uk
http://www.morpethnet.co.uk
COMPLETE FUNERAL SERVICE
J.W. Peters
Family Firm Established 1920
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Prepaid Funeral Plans. Written Details on request
53 Bridge Street, Morpeth 01670 517117
12
The Parish Julian Group
The first meeting of the Parish’s Julian group met on the 9th January in the
home of Val Steele for contemplative prayer and meditation. Val started us off
by reading a poem:
Prayer is like watching for the kingfisher.
All you can do is be where he is likely to appear
and wait.
Often nothing much happens.
There is space, silence,
and expectancy.
No visible sign,
only the knowledge that he’s been here
and may come again.
Seeing or not seeing cease to matter.
You have been prepared.
But sometimes, when you’ve almost
stopped expecting it,
a flash of brightness
gives encouragement.
Ann Lewin
We spent half an hour in silent contemplation and
prayer before God. Some of us, I suspect , spent time
in prayer for ourselves, others, the parish, and the
world. Others may have reflected on where God is in
the world and where we find him and how he reveals
himself to us. We all spent our 30mins with God in
different ways. We ended the silence with a piece of
music, the Agnes Dei by Margaret Rizza. All agreed it
was much easier to pray in silence in the company of
others and also how quickly the time went!
We agreed to meet next on the second Saturday of the month, 13th February in
St James’ Church at 10.30. The group is open to all. If you think this is something
you might find helpful in your prayer life, please come long and find out more.
Everyone is welcome.
Jeremy Cooper
13
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14
Parish joins in celebrations
for new Bishop
At least ten members of the parish braved yet another day of rain on
December 12th, to attend the inauguration of the 12th Bishop of
Newcastle, Christine Hardman on 12th day of the 12th month.
St Nicholas’ Cathedral, was filled with representatives of parishes from
the Scottish Border south to the Tyne Valley and from Haltwhistle
eastwards to the Northumbrian coast.
Bishop Christine Hardman asked to be admitted
to the Cathedral by knocking three times on the
outside of the west door, using a traditional
crozier or bishop’s staff (in the shape of a
shepherd’s crook to symbolise care for a flock)
made in 2014 by Neville Straker of Amble for the
12th Bishop of Newcastle.
Her forehead and hands were anointed with oil
by the Bishops of three Dioceses with companion
links to the Diocese of Newcastle: Bishop
Ingeborg Midttømme of the Diocese of Møre in
Norway, Bishop Metlhayotlhe Beleme of the
Diocese of Botswana, and Bishop Tim Dakin of
the Diocese of Winchester.
At the end the Bishop processed out of
the building into Cathedral Square to
pronounce God’s blessing in the open
air on the City and Diocese of
Newcastle. The blessing was followed
by a firework finale.
15
The Right Reverend Christine Hardman
said, “I hope people at the Inauguration
shared my sense of expectation and
excitement about the journey ahead as
well as thanks for all that has been. I’m
here to lead the people of God in
mission. We will work together for the
good of all – for the flourishing of all our
communities.”
In her first sermon as Bishop in the diocese she reflected on Isaiah
35 3-6 “Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way;
say to those with fearful hearts, ‘Be strong, do not fear; your God
will come’”.
She empathised with the first Bishop of Newcastle, Earnest
Wilberforce, grandson of William. He felt inadequate, lacking the
gifts and skills that he thought essential to be Bishop of Newcastle.
He was persuaded, however, to accept and take courage from these
same words from Isaiah.
Christine noted that we were in the season of Advent, a time of
Christian hope. The reality of that hope was that death,
resurrection, and the reality of the world to come breaks forth into
our world and transforms it. Love will prevail, stronger than evil and
death.
She said that our challenge is to live the reality of that hope and to
show that hope without using words. She said (as Bishop
Wilberforce had said), ‘‘I stand before you pledged to Christ and to
his church in this diocese, to do whatever in me lies, with the help of
my God, for God and his people’.
Jeremy Cooper
PS the lunch was good too!
16
Morpeth and Mitford Churches Together
Refugee Support Group
February 2016
Prior to Christmas the public were very exercised by the situation in Syria
and the mass migration n Europe. This resulted in large amounts of
clothes and food being sent to the West End Refugee Service and the
Justice and Peace Centre in Newcastle.
I am informed there were 21 Syrian refugees actually supported by
WERS in this area as part of the UK Vulnerable Persons Scheme, set up by
the Government in early 2014. These persons and families are in
addition to the 100 destitute asylum seekers the organisation already
manages to help .The charity also increasingly assists in settling those
permitted to remain.
Before Christmas Councillor Joan Tebbutt called together all
organisations in Morpeth having any contacts with refugees to see if the
town as a whole could make some concerted effort to increase
awareness of the situation and to cooperate in some small way to
alleviate the misery.
Morpeth and Mitford Refugee Support Group has met with these other
groups ( Lions, Rotary KEVI, Morpeth Knights, and Ruhi, who organises
convoys to Europe, and other individuals) .
The group calls itself Sanctuary Network Morpeth. At the time of writing
there are plans set up to gather in the Town hall and the Market place on
Saturday16th January to spread information about the refugee situation
and also raise funds towards the charities various projects.
Our own group has promised to run a Bric a Brac stall in the Town Hall.
Thanks to all who are contributing the effort.
Please continue our traditional ways of giving
Contacts are Joy Wight Tel 515990 and Maura Illingworth 516452.
Update: The Morpeth Sanctuary Network event on Saturday 16th
January was very successful and the organisers are hopeful that more
events will take place in future .
17
18
19
Happy Birthday, Ma’am
ChurchCare launches hub resource for church celebrations of HM The Queen’s
90th Birthday
A central news sharing resource for churches and cathedrals has recently been
launched to encourage and equip communities as they organise celebrations to
mark Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th birthday in June 2016.
The Church of England’s ChurchCare website (www.churchcare.co.uk) provides a
virtual map of events and offer tips on themed celebrations, a helpful checklist
on how to involve community partners as well as publicity opportunities. Church
schools will take part in a competition to design a logo for the campaign.
Dr John Inge, Bishop of Worcester and lead Bishop for Church Buildings said,
‘Churches up and down the land will be organising myriad events in thanksgiving
for the wonderful Christian service that the Queen has given, celebrating her
commitment to God and the common good over ninety years. ChurchCare will be
doing everything possible to help by offering practical advice and creating a
virtual space where communities can share imaginative ideas on how to mark
this great milestone in the life of our Queen and nation.’
Official celebrations will take place in London between the 10th and 12th June,
including a thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Cathedral, a Birthday Parade on
Horse Guards Parade and a street party in The Mall. It is envisaged that church
events will be integrated into local community celebrations that take place that
weekend.
The birthday celebration weekend offers churches the opportunity to share local
stories from the last 90 years through exhibitions and oral histories, securing
these memories for future generations.
Janet Gough, Director of The Cathedral and Church Buildings (CCB) Division for
The Church of England said, ‘We hope exhibitions, celebratory peals of church
bells and festivals will fill our church buildings with people of all generations and
from across local communities as they come together to celebrate this important
milestone in our national life. The ChurchCare hub will be a useful virtual
community space and I am excited to see it grow over the coming months.’
The link to the hub is: http://churchcare.co.uk/about-us/campaigns/news/943queen-s-90th-birthday
20
Some hints about prayer this Lent
Prayer is instinctive for human beings, even those who don’t regard themselves
as religious. You are standing at a bus stop in the wind and the rain, thinking ‘I do
hope the bus will come soon’. It’s an inner yearning. It defies logic: either the bus
is coming or it isn’t. But we all do it. It’s instinctive and it’s the raw material of
prayer. Hoping for something better is basic. Like all instincts, it needs to be
trained.
To whom do we pray? What you pray and the way you do it will be shaped by
your view of God. Christian prayers are fashioned by what we know of Jesus and
what He taught about prayer.
We pray by invitation. Again and again, Jesus encouraged his companions to
pray. A couple of his parables on the subject have been misinterpreted as
instructions to persuade a resistant God to do what we want. Have a look at Luke
18, verses 1-8, about a widow whose perseverance finally persuaded an
unwilling judge to rule in her favour. The lesson is that God is not like that!
Similarly, an unwelcome neighbour who persistently calls for help in the middle
of the night gets what he wants (Luke 11.5-13). The lesson? If tenacious lobbying
can overcome human unwillingness, how much more our gracious God will heed
his children’s cry.
Pushing at an open door. Jesus is already praying for us. So when we start to
pray, we step on to an already moving staircase. Sometimes prayer seems
tougher than it need be. Jesus invited us to be linked to him, in the way an
inexperienced bullock is yoked to a mature ox. Have a look at Matthew 11, 2829, which concludes “for my yoke is easy and my burden is light”. When Marion
Bartoli unexpectedly won the 2013 Women’s Wimbledon final, she said “I
believe if you put all your heart and effort into everything you are doing, then
God is there to help you.”
Is your prayer on the right lines? Try adding “for Christ’s sake” at the end.
“Please let my marrow win the Gardening Club competition”? No. “Not my will
but yours” is the key. So when praying, don’t give God instructions, just report
for duty.
The Ven. John Barton
21
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Classes to suit all levels
Beginners - Wednesday morning and Thursday evening.
Developing Bridge- Tuesday morning
Continuing Bridge - Tuesday morning
We are also happy to teach small groups on request.
For more information please contact:
Monica Tuke
Aileen Bryant
Jill Harrison
Aileen Cunningham
01670
01670
01670
01670
515
504
791
513
075
475
183
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PRACTISE PLAYING BRIDGE
Play and learn sessions with help from teachers. Just drop in – with or
without a partner. Thursdays & Fridays 1.30 to 4.30 pm ongoing , including
holidays at Hepscott Village Hall
22
WOMEN'S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER 2016
This year the Women's World Day of
Prayer will be on Friday 4th March 2016
at 2 pm and we have been asked to host
the service in St James Church. This is a
wonderful service in which all the
Morpeth churches participate. We look
forward to welcoming everyone to the
service.
The theme this year is ‘ RECEIVE CHILDREN. RECEIVE ME’ and has been prepared by
the women of Cuba.
Jesus called a child, whom he put among them, and said, "Truly I tell you, unless you
change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever
becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever
welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me." Matthew 18 2-5 NRSV.
The United Reform Church Band will be playing at the service and we are seeking
volunteers (men and women) to join the choir for this occasion. Rehearsals are held in the
church on Fridays 12th and 26th February at 10 am for readers and then at 11 am for
singers. Again on Friday 4th March for everyone at 10 am, followed by the service at 2 pm.
Please give this your consideration and join us in the choir to make a good sound of praise
for our worship.
Jesus, you saw in everyone, a child of God;
in the woman shunned, drawing water in the heat of the day,
in the man hated by is peers for the job he did,
in the blind man, blamed for his disability,
in the leper, ostracised because of his illness,
in the woman, stoned for her misdemeanours.....
You saw people's vulnerability, their loneliness and fear
and offered welcome, acceptance, forgiveness and love.
Help us not to follow the crowd, but to see others as you do;
not to judge by appearances, but to be able to look below the surface,
not to walk by and avert our eyes, but to stop and take notice,
not to make excuses, but to seek opportunities for loving action.
May we recognise God's children in the people we meet
and follow you example of life-changing love.
Kathleen Skinner
23
The Republic of Cuba is one of the world's last remaining communist states. The First
Secretary of the Communist Party is also the President of Cuba, serving for a term of five
years with no limit on the number of terms in office. The only organ of government is the
National Assembly of People's Power. The official language is Spanish. Cuba is an island
nation consisting of the main island, Cuba, and numerous small islands, cays and islets
many of which are entirely covered by mangrove.
Cuba is the largest island in
the Caribbean and spans a
surface area of 42,803 square
miles, about the same size as
England. The capital is
Havana. Cuba has a
population of just over
11,000,000.
The climate is warm, humid and subtropical and due to its geographical location and
elongated shape is very prone to hurricanes.
Cuba is an indigenous word which means 'cultivated land' and the earliest inhabitants were
native Arawaks from Venezuela and Guyana who settled here because of the fertility of the
soil. With the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492 they were subjected to hard work in
slave-like conditions by the Spanish colonisers, resulting in their almost complete
extinction. They were replaced with slaves brought in from various parts of Africa. Over
the centuries a new level of society emerged with the 'criollo' – men and women born in
Cuba but of Spanish descent – who had a new way of thinking about their national identity.
In 1898 the government of the USA mediated the break from Spain but Cuba now had to
submit to North American interests. The entire first half of the twentieth century was
characterised by many governments, but the longing for liberation from all foreign
interference grew. After a turbulent period over many years, there is now hope for the
future of the country.
The Cuban economy has passed through periods of fluctuation. Wages are not in keeping
with needs of the people. Transportation is a problem and on repeated occasions there
are shortages in products such as medicines, food and personal hygiene items. Recent
changes in economic policies have enable significant contributions to the economy from
international tourism, co-operative movements and private businesses and the export of
sugar, nickel and tobacco.
In 1959 the whole structure of Cuban society changed drastically and a new order was
established but central aspects of national traditions are currently being reintroduced with
emphasis on the recovery of values, integral education and the strengthening of Cuban
culture. There is insistence on the improvement of the quality of life of the people,
particularly that of senior citizens, women and children. The changes in economic, social
and political relationships continue to affect the majority of the population and chart new
course for the socialist Cuban society. Now Cuba has a health care system that is in many
ways the envy of the world.
24
It is a fully integrated programme encompassing all aspects of health care from health
promotion to rehabilitation. In 2014 Cuba was the first country to send doctors to help
deal with the Ebola crisis. Since 1963 more than 65,000 doctors have spent time doing
humanitarian work in Africa, Latin America and Asia – a remarkably high number for a
small country.
After the revolution, people who practiced any religion were marginalised by the
government's atheist policy. In 1990 the constitution re-established the lay character of
the State and guaranteed religious freedom. This enabled people to return to the public
practice of faith. The Roman Catholic Church is the largest Christian denomination,
reflecting the Spanish history. During the 19th century a number of Protestant churches
were established and now there are over 60 denominations.
Cubans were unable fully to access education until 1961, after the revolution. From 1961
onwards there was a cultural and educational explosion. All types of schools were opened
and education is free to all from nursery to university, almost everything is provided except
school uniforms – and this is available at highly subsidised rates. English is taught as a
second language in all schools.
Although subject to suffering and
discrimination in the past, Cuban women
today play an important role in the community,
family and church, although there are still
some elements of a patriarchal culture at all
levels of society. After the revolution ;in 1953
women were active in building up a new
society and improving their education and
professional training.
In 1961 the Federation of Cuban Women was formed to demand the rights of women,
children and the family. The Mariposa, or Butterfly jasmine,is the National Flower of Cuba.
Its white flower represents the purity of the ideals of freedom and independence of the
Cuban people, and its slender shape is said to symbolise the gracefulness of Cuban
women.
The Tocororo is the National Bird. Its plumage have the same colours as the National
Flag of Cuba – red, blue and white. Although not indigenous to Cuba, the Royal Palm has
been adopted as the National Tree. It grows up to 40-50 feet in height and is topped by a
crest of leaves. It is said to symbolise the indomitable spirit of the Cuban people as it can
withstand the strongest gales without falling.
Cuban culture is like its typical dish, known as 'ajiaco' which unites the flavours of various
meats, vegetable, banana, cassava, sweet potato, dasheen and corn. The culture of
music, food, dance, literature and art comes mainly from the Spanish and African heritage
but has been influenced by the Chinese, French, North Americans and other Caribbean
settlers. Percussion and string musical instruments play an important part in worship and
celebrations.
Janice Parks
25
26
Girlguiding in Morpeth continues to
offer girls and young women a wide
range of opportunities from the
traditional camping and outdoor skills
to modern communication skills and
international travel and co-operation.
Last year girls attended camps both locally and further afield including the
Wellies and Wristbands national camp in Lancashire – an outdoor music festival
for Guides and the Senior Section. Two leaders attended the Scout World
Jamboree in Japan, and one Young Leader went to Thailand to visit Guides and
carry out a community project.
However, international co-operation also starts closer to home, and this year
Girlguiding Morpeth and Soroptimist International Morpeth have joined forces
to support the Philippine Community Fund by taking part in a project to support
the charity.
The Philippine Community Fund (PCF) is a charity that aims to permanently
improve the quality of life for the poorest Filipino communities, through
education, nutrition, health, medical and family enhancement programs,
regardless of religion race or political boundaries. One way they do this is to
teach young people skills to earn money by making products to sell from
recycled rubbish such as ring pulls from cans and labels from drinks bottles.
Pamela Turner of Soroptimist International Morpeth heard about the PCF and
their work at the annual conference of Soroptimist International Great Britain
and Ireland in 2014 and suggested it to Girlguiding Morpeth as an ideal project
that we could work on together.
We decided that we wanted several parts of the project; an opportunity for the
girls to learn about life and its challenges in another country, a practical
challenge to support the PCF and finally a large event for all members in the
Division to celebrate Thinking Day in February.
We have put together an excellent activity pack that covers not only games,
crafts and activities from the Philippines, but also activities to help girls
understand some of the issues such as the natural disasters that occur and to
think about how they would react.
One very relevant one was about flooding. The girls have been completing the
various activities over a period of several months, and it is proving to be very
27
popular.
The practical challenge has been to collect ring pulls from all types of cans, and
the plastic labels from drinks bottles. The challenge is on to collect as many as we
can between now and 27th February 2016. There will be prizes for the girl and
units who collect the most, so please do support the girls if you can. The girls
have also been challenged to find the most creative way of collecting them, so
that some are collecting at school, some have asked parents to collect at
work...the list goes on!
Plans are now well in hand for the Thinking Day event on 27th February. We are
hoping for over 150 girls and Young women to join us for an event which is
spread around Morpeth. Activities will take place at four venues around
Morpeth and will included Filipino singing and dancing, crafts, challenges and a
finale on the Market Square.
More information about the PCF can be found at http://www.p-c-f.org , including
an online shop to purchase the finished articles.
If you would like to get involved and support Girlguiding in Morpeth, either by
helping weekly at a meeting or in a support role please contact Elaine
Callaghan on 07890 075858 or morpethdivisiongg@hotmail.co.uk
For information about joining Soroptimist International Morpeth please contact
Pamela Turner on pturner27@btinternet.com
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28
A year of possibilities…
Hello!
A very happy new year to you! I hope you’ve all had a fantastic Christmas.
I can’t believe I have been here at St Aidan’s for nearly 4 months now.
I have had the most terrific start here working on the Beacon Project and have
been overwhelmed by the friendly and welcoming reception I have had from so
many people throughout the Parish. I have lots of ideas and I’m very keen to
work with as many people as possible who would like to get involved with any
projects or plans.
I’m also keen to hear from you, this is your Parish and if there is something
missing that you would like to see happening, I would be more than happy to
meet, chat and plan with you!
Here’s what I’ve been getting up to so far…
Community Lunch
Eating lunch with others is something we all do. How often do we look forward
to going out for a meal as a celebration of something special?
The first Community Lunch started on Wednesday 25th November. Members of
Morpeth Parish came along and had lunch with the children at Stobhillgate First
School.
At £2.52 a head, we were provided with a lovely roast chicken dinner and a
pudding, plus the chance to have a bit of a blether with the children at school.
We were made very welcome, the children chatted away and enjoyed seeing
some new faces in their school!
This is a brilliant opportunity to encourage community and fellowship through a
shared eating experience. I am really looking forward to future conversations
that will take place at school with the children and our wonderful congregations
while enjoying a cooked meal and I would love to see you there!
The next Community Lunch will be on Wednesday 27th January. Please get in
touch with me if you want to come along!
Lunches will normally happen on the last Wednesday of every month during
term time.
Christingles, Crafts and Christmas
On the 19th December, we had a great time Christingle making and enjoying
Christmas Crafts at St Aidan’s Church.
There was mulled wine and minced pies to be had and the children thoroughly
enjoyed the crafts and activities on offer.
On the 20th December, we had our very special Christingle service at St Aidan’s.
I was told that this is always a popular service with the community, the local
29
school and Guiding groups. It’s such a special event and it was lovely to think of
Churches and schools celebrating the Christingle service across the country in
their own individual way.
It was a really brilliant experience, and I loved being part of it, meeting and
worshipping with families and children.
Grandparents and Giggles
Our brand new Grandparents and Giggles group will be at St Aidan’s on
Wednesday 13th January 1.00pm – 2.30pm. If you’re a Grandparent who looks
after your Grandchildren and are looking for something to do, come along to St
Aidan’s for crafts, a cuppa and a chat! All welcome, even if you’re not a
grandparent!
Grandparents will be learning how to make a bird out of yarn and the children
will be doing some hand printing crafts.
It promises to be a fun filled afternoon for all. Please either just come along or
contact me at St Aidan’s or on 07850996013 for more information.
Other ideas/plans
•
Toddler group,
•
A carer support group
•
Being out and about across the Parish and in the community getting to
know you all.
I plan to visit local schools to deliver regular assemblies and to set up some
Prayer Spaces.
I’m also looking for people to help or take part. I can usually be found in the
Parish Office from Tuesday to Thursday or you can contact me on the details
below! I’m here for you so please use me!
I look forward to spending 2016 with you.
If you have any queries/questions or even ideas, please do not hesitate to
contact me!
Lots of love
Fliss
xx
You can contact me - Fliss Tunnard
flisscommunitymorpethparish@gmail.com
07850996013
30
From the Parish Registers for January
Baptisms
January 24th Sophie and Olivia Stone
Emily Reese McAlpine
RIP
4th January
12th January
13th January
14th January
Hedley Irwin
June Stevenson
Peggy Emerson
Esther Bolton
O Father God, thank you for the communities in
our lives – our church, our family, our workplace,
our schools, our neighbours. Thank you for the
way they shape, challenge and support us. We
pray that we would spend more time with your
word: the ‘soul food’ you have provided to overcome the divisions, distractions and temptations
we have in our lives – the things that pull us away from community with
you and each other. Allow our prayers to lead us into generous actions to
bless others, build community and build your Kingdom.
In your name we pray, Amen.
Christ Jesus, when all is darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us the sense of Your presence, Your love, and Your
strength. Help us to have perfect trust in Your protecting love and
strengthening power, so that nothing may frighten or worry us, for, living
close to You, we shall see Your hand, Your purpose, Your will through all
things.
(A prayer by St Ignatius of Loyola, 1491–1556)
31Prayer for February
The Parish Cycle of
1st
For our Bishop and Clergy
2nd
For the Parish
3rd
May we welcome all newcomers
4th
For Unity between Churches
5th
For our Country
6th
Accession of Queen Elizabeth
7th
Next Sunday before Lent
8th
For the Royal Family
Help us to know the word of God
Give wisdom to world leaders
9th
Shrove Tuesday
May we care for and respect the countryside
10th
Ash Wednesday
Lead us not into temptation
11th
For victims of natural disasters
12th
Forgive us for moaning
13th
Help us to accept criticism
14th
1st Sunday of Lent
Help us read, mark and learn your word
15th
Pray for the homeless
16th
May there be peace for all nations
17th
Janani Luwum, ArchBp, martyr
For all persecuted Christians
18th
Be with those who are unhappy
19th
Pray for those who are in hospital
20th
For all who are ill at home and for their carers
21st
2nd Sunday of Lent
May we be aware of the will of God
22nd
In your mercy forgive our foolish ways
23rd
In your mercy save all suffering children
24th
In your mercy, bless our homes
25th
Help us to love you more
26th
Members of the Mothers Union
27th
Girl Guide Thinking Day
28th
3rd Sunday of Lent
29th
Members of the Guide Association
Members of the Boys Brigade
May this extra day be used wisely
32
33
34
Please hand your completed form in to Noel Common or give it to one of
the Churchwardens. Alternatively, you may send it to the Parish Office
(address on the back cover of the magazine) if you wish.
35
36
37
GIFT AID DECLARATION
If you are a UK
taxpayer and
eligible to Gift Aid your donation, please complete the form below. This will increase your
gift by 25p for every £1 given (at current rate), at no extra cost to you or us.
Please treat as Gift Aid donations all qualifying gifts of money made from the date
of this declaration and in the past four years.
I confirm I have paid or will pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax
for each tax year (6 April to 5 April) that is at least equal to the amount of tax that
all the charities (including churches) and Community Amateur Sports Clubs that
I donate to will reclaim on my gifts for that tax year. I understand that other taxes
such as VAT and Council Tax do not qualify. I understand the charity will reclaim 25p
of tax on every £1
Please complete the above form and return it to: The Parish Office, Parish Hall,
Grange Road, Morpeth, NE61 2TL or hand it to the churchwarden
NAME…………………………………………………..
ADDRESS……………………………………………..
……………………………………………..
……………………………………………..
POST CODE……………………………………
NO………………………………..
TEL
SIGNATURE……………………………………
DATE…………………………………..
NOTES
1.




Please notify the church/charity if you:
Want to cancel this declaration
Change your name or home address
No longer pay sufficient tax on your income and/or capital gains.
Gift Aid is linked to basic rate tax which currently allows charities to reclaim 25 pence in the
pound.
2.
Higher rate taxpayers can claim back the difference between basic rate and higher
rate or additional rate tax. If you pay Income Tax at the higher or additional rate and
want to receive the additional tax relief due to you, you must include all your Gift Aid
donations on your Self Assessment tax return or ask HM Revenue and Customs to
adjust your tax code.
38
SERVICES FOR FEBRUARY 2016
February 7th
St James
St Mary
St James
St Aidan
St Mary
February 14th
St James
St Mary
St Aidan
St James
St Aidan
St James
21st February
St James
St Mary
St James
St Aidan
St Aidan
Sunday next before Lent
8.00am
Holy Communion
9.30 am
Family Communion
11.15am
Simply Worship (Non-Eucharist)
4.00pm
Family Communion
6.00pm
BCP Evensong
Lent 1
8.00am
Holy Communion
9.30am
Simply Worship (Non-Eucharist)
9.30 am
Family Communion
11.15am
Family Communion
4.00pm
Teatime Church
6.00pm
Alternative Evening Prayer
Lent 2
8.00am
Holy Communion
9.30am
Family Communion
11.15am
Family Communion
4.00pm
Simply Worship (Non-Eucharist)
6.00pm
Healing Service
28th February
St James
St Mary
St James
St Aidan
Lent 3
8.00.am
9.30am
11.15am
4.00pm
Holy Communion
Family Communion
Family Communion
Family Communion
No Evening Service on 4th & 5th Sundays
Please check the weekly pew notes for any alterations
or amendments to services
ASH WEDNESDAY
Communion Services
9.15 am at St Aidan's
7.30 pm at St James'
39
YOUTH ORGANISATIONS
BOYS BRIGADE (Manchester St. HQ)
Revd Simon White (Captain)
Mr Clive Kemp Tel: 07866017909 Officer
(Juniors & Anchors)
Thursdays: Anchors (6-8) & Juniors (8-11)
Tuesdays: Company (11-18)
GUIDES, BROWNIES & RANGERS
Rainbows
2nd St James Monday
All Saints School
3rd St Mary's Tuesday
Abbeyfields First School
Brownies
2nd St James Monday
All Saints School
St Aidan’s Wednesday
Parish Hall
3rd St Mary’s Tuesday
Abbeyfields First School
Guides
2nd St James Wednesday
All Saints School
Further information from: Elaine Callaghan
Tel 07531900936
BEAVERS, CUBS & SCOUTS
Low Stanners HQ
4th Morpeth Beavers- Monday & Thursday
4th Morpeth Cubs - Tuesday & Thursday
4th Morpeth Scouts
Monday & Wednesday
Morpeth Methodist Church
6th Morpeth Beavers- Thursday s- Thursday
6th Morpeth Scouts- Thursday
Explorer Scouts- Friday
Further information: Clive Rich 01670 511623
PLAYTIME PLUS
Mother and Toddler Group
Every TUESDAY during term time
from 9.30 am—11 am
in St Aidan’s Church, Stobhill
Contact: Mrs Pauline Ferguson
Tel: 518642
PARISH SUNDAY SCHOOL & JUNIOR CHURCH
Contact: Dr Lindsay Gilfillan
Tel: 07736108772
MESSY CHURCH
Parish Contact: Revd Jeremy Cooper
Tel.511593
JeremyLCooper@aol.com
YOU CAN ADVERTISE IN CONCORD
£33 for 1/3 page
£55 for 1/2 page
£66 for 2/3 page
£99 for full page
You supply your chosen artwork/logo and copy and your ad will appear in
eleven editions of the magazine (July & August is a double issue)
Contact Dave Pope for details
Tel: 01670 519520 Mobile: 07714143640 email: dpope@morpethnet.co.uk
40
PARISH DIRECTORY
PARISH OFFICE (ALL GENERAL ENQUIRIES)
The Parish Office, St Aidan’s Church, Shields
Road, Stobhill, Morpeth NE61 2SA Tel: 503326
Email: morpeth.parish@btconnect.com
Web: www.parishofmorpeth.org.uk
Monday—Thursday 9.30am to 12.30pm
The Office is CLOSED on FRIDAY
Beacon Community Worker: Fliss Tunnard
flisscommunitymorpethparish@gmail.com
PCC SECRETARY
Mrs Val Pope Tel: 07710233251
Email: val@litnotes.co.uk
MINISTRY TEAM (PASTORAL ENQUIRIES ONLY)
Revd Simon White (Rector) (day off Wednesday)
The Rectory Cottingwood Lane Morpeth
Tel: 01670 517716
email: rev.simonjhwhite@gmail.com
Revd Jeremy Cooper (OLM )13 Curlew Hill,
Lancaster Park (Tel.511593) (Mon, Fri & Sun)
email: JeremyLCooper@aol.com
Revd Beth Rookwood (Curate/Pioneer Minister)
3 Stobhill Villas, Morpeth NE61 2SH
Tel: 07496672011
email: revbethrookwood@gmail.com
READERS
Mrs Vivienne Sommerville Tel: 513181
Mrs Wendy McKenzie Tel: 510311
Mrs Harriet Gilfillan Tel: 07736 108771
Mrs Janet Hedley Tel: 514117
Mrs Val Cowan Tel: 07887594161
Mr Chris Hudson Tel: 07739348386
Mrs Muriel Harris Tel: 515579 (Reader Emeritus)
CHURCHWARDENS
Mrs Sally Keith 515 098
Canon Brian Hedley 514117
Mr Stuart Michie 518057
Mr Roy Beasley 514149
FABRIC COMMITTEE (Chair)
Mr Dave Pope Tel: 519520
email: dpope@morpethnet.co.uk
FINANCE & RECORDS
Gift Aid Sec.: Mrs Barbara Wheeler Tel: 519664
Planned Giving: Mr David Pope Tel: 519520
Electoral Roll: Mr Noel Common Tel: 516208
MUSICAL DIRECTORS
St Mary: Mr Colin Davidson Tel: 513381
St James: Mr David Pope Tel: 519520
St Aidan: Mr Roy Beasley Tel: 514149
MOTHERS UNION
Mrs Pauline Young Tel: 511407 or 07779132452
MENS’ GROUP
Mr Cyril Meehan Tel: 512897
PARISH MAGAZINE (CONCORD)
Mrs Val Pope Tel: 515806 val@litnotes.co.uk
Miss Pat Baker Tel: 503429
Revd Maureen Chester Tel: 514569
Mrs Sally Keith Tel: 515098
MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION
Mr Eric Fisher Tel: 515401 (St. James)
Mr Noel Common Tel: 516208 (St Aidan)
Mrs Val Langston Tel: 510779 (St Mary)
CHILDREN’S SOCIETY COORDINATOR
Mrs Dorothy Tully Tel: 513928
CHAPLAINCY TEAM
LEAD CHAPLAIN: Revd Jeremy Cooper
Tel.511593) (Mon, Fri & Sun)
email: JeremyLCooper@aol.com
http://www.morpethallsaints.com/
Pinewood Drive Lancaster Park
Morpeth Northumberland
NE61 3RD
Telephone : 01670 512803
Head Teacher Mrs K Halliday
Chair of Governors Mr Brian Hedley
(Mitford Church) 01670 514836
hedleys@outlook.com