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Do you want to share a photograph or story about something that is happening here in the Benefice? Just email it to:- mawvoffice@btinternet.com

Thursday 30 January 2014

Stepping out in Faith - Making Christ Visible


Fourteen people from our benefice stepped forward in faith yesterday evening at St Mary's Church, Winterborne Whitechurch. Bishop Graham led the service in which they confirmed their commitment to their baptismal vows. With over a hundred people filling the church, there was a very special atmosphere. The singing in church was tremendous and the chatter in the school hall afterwards was animated and happy. Thank you to everyone for making this such a joyful occasion.
Making Christ Visible
Our Benefice mission statement has been summarised in these three words. The  churchwardens  worked to make our mission statement shorter and achievable for our six parishes. With ‘Making Christ visible’ as our mission statement, we need to think beyond the beautiful church buildings and ensure that Christ is present in our communities through our actions and behaviour. Is this achievable? I believe so, and I was particularly encouraged by the fourteen people who made the decision to be confirmed by Bishop Graham last Wednesday at St Mary’s, Whitechurch.
Thomas Roberts
Su Roberts
George Townsend
Amanda Valentine
Jessica Valentine
Molly Gardiner
Grace Ritchie
Michael Trevett
Alison Trevett
John Close
Sue Close
Samuel Mullen
John Gregory
Katherine Gregory
Please pray for them as they step forward in faith!
Alan

Thursday 23 January 2014

Church Services at a church near you this Sunday



Church Services in the Benefice
Sunday 26th January


W. Whitechurch   9.00 Holy Communion (said)
                             Book of Common Prayer - traditional
                             Rev’d Alan

                              17.00 Lovely Cake 
                             especially for parents and children 
                              Rev’d Sue                         

 
Milton Abbas       10.30 Holy Communion
                            Common Worship
                            Rev’d Alan




W.Stickland        10.30 All Age Morning Worship
                            Informal service for all (without Holy Communion)
                            Rev’d Sue
 



 
Turnworth           18.00 Evening Prayer
                            Book of Common Prayer
                            Rev’d Marion

Thursday 16 January 2014

Church Services at a church near you this Sunday.



Church Services in the Benefice
Sunday 19th January        
          

W.Stickland        10.30 Holy Communion

                            Rev’d Alan





W. Whitechurch  10.30 All Age
                             An informal service for all, with old and new
                             hymns and songs

                            Jenny G



Milton Abbas       18.00 Evening Prayer
                              Book of Common Prayer - Traditional
                            
                              Rev’d Marion

Wednesday 15 January 2014

Monday 13 January 2014

So you are thinking of standing for synod?



SO YOU’RE THINKING OF STANDING FOR SYNOD?

Saturday 1 February 10 am – 1 pm at
Church House, Salisbury SP1 2QB
With Robert Key, Chris Corteen and Jane Charman

As well as being ‘episcopally led’ the Church of England is also ‘synodically governed’. The PCCs and Deanery, Diocesan and General Synods of the Church of England have significant powers as well as responsibilities in guiding and shaping the Church of the future. At a time when a number of controversial issues are being hotly debated, the Church urgently needs wise, informed, representative and committed Christians participating in synodical government at every level. And as church members we all have a part to play by supporting, praying for and working with those we have elected.

The morning is open to all, whether you are thinking of standing for Synod yourself or just want to play a fuller and more influential part in the Church’s decision making processes. It will cover the following areas:

What theological principles should underpin Christian decision making?
How does synodical government work and what powers do synods have?
What do I need to do if I’m thinking of standing for election?
What’s involved in standing for and serving on General Synod?
What will be the main issues facing the Church in the next 5 – 7 years?
How can I make my views known eg by getting items onto synod agendas and influencing debates?

We will aim to send you away with resources which you can share with your PCC, Deanery Synod or other interested group. Remember, it’s YOUR Church!

Robert has served on General Synod since 2005. As Diocesan Chair of the House of Laity he is an ex officio member of all Deanery Synods in the Diocese. Chris has served on General Synod since 2010. She is a member of Purbeck Deanery Synod and an ex officio member of Diocesan Synod and of Wool and East Stoke PCC. Jane has served on General Synod since 2010 and is an ex officio member of Diocesan Synod.

Please let us know you are coming by contacting
Tina Draycott at Church House on 01722 411944
by Friday 17 January