Dear Friends,
The 'new' church building continues to draw favourable comments and to be used in ways that were not previously possible. Last month, through Nessa, our family worker, we linked up with Bluebell Children's Centre to host a morning for children under 8s, using the hall, the outdoor area and the church. We have learned from the experience of our 'cracker' events that you cannot predict how many people are likely to come. In the event, there were about seventy children with parents, grandparents and carers. This was our first joint event with a statutory agency and it was a great success. We took the opportunity to give people information about the church's activities for children and the Toddler group. There was considerable interest in the latter, which already has a waiting list, so it sounds as if we could do with another one - any offers of help welcome!
It was good to meet our BMS link missionaries for the first time and to hear something of their work. Amongst other things the situation in that country reminds us of how blessed we are in all kinds of ways and how much we need to keep in our prayers those for whom life is so different and so much more difficult.
Also during August the kitchen has undergone a much-needed refit and re-decoration and progress has been made towards a Pre-school office. Unfortunately, things have not gone as quickly as hoped on this and the patience and understanding of those affected is much appreciated.
September is the time when church groups for younger and older which have taken a summer break begin again and I would encourage you to pray regularly for those all those involved in leading and helping these groups to happen. Also this month we welcome those who visit us as part of the Historic Churches Sponsored Bike Ride, which this year is on Saturday 11th.
A regular feature of church life in September is Harvest Festival, which this year is 19th - and I shall not be here. The reason is that Andrew, our middle son, is getting married in Scotland that weekend and the Church Secretary has graciously given me permission to attend. He and Nessa are planning the all-age morning service so expect the unexpected!
On the following Sunday we shall be joining with thousands of churches of various traditions across the country in 'Back to Church Sunday'. There are many people who used to attend churches, including Tilehouse Street, but who, for a variety of reasons, no longer do so. We shall be giving personal invitations to folk to come back to church on this Sunday and we look forward to welcoming those who do.
Yours in the love of Christ,
John Matthews
