church family news
    Since the beginning of the first lockdown  in March 2020, we felt it was still necessary          to have a forum where we can share our joys and our sorrows.
So, we continue to bring our weekly news ...

In an attempt to make life a little easier, 

I'll leave recurring news at the TOP of this page
(which means I don't have to re-paste it EVERY week!) 
and it'll be quicker for you to look something up.             

If you need to get a message to anyone on this page please use the "Contact Us" page on this website.              

If you have any items you'd like us to include again please tell Maureen Jeavons or Eileen Adams                        

Sadly, during this very strange year (and more) some very special people have died but know
that they are NOT  forgotten.  Look for tributes and photos on the "Memories" page

In recent weeks we've been reflecting on the question: "What have I learned about God during the pandemic?"

We've created a new page on the website so you can view some of those testimonies

God bless you all                 
Stay Joyful

                Keep the Faith

                                 Do the Little Things

 

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Please also take note of the following from Dudley Council

  Dudley is STILL experiencing a rise in cases of the  Delta variant of Covid️

although  the NATIONAL LOCKDOWN  has come to an end

PLEASE

Play your part - protect Dudley borough

for latest information (too lengthy for this page) check the Coronavirus page on this website
(updated 07.10.21)

�� Remember HANDS FACE SPACE and...VENTILATION!

Find out more ➡️ www.dudley.gov.uk/coronavirus

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HELPING HANDS.

We ARE still here! Please, just ask if you need help.

 

Message Eileen Adams or Sarah Shaw if there’s anything at all we can help with.
If you need help with shopping orders, prescription collections, or anything else – maybe just a friendly voice,
message us. If you don't know our contact details please use the "contact us" page on this website.
We really
are 

 HAPPY TO HELP 

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If you  yourself needs (or you hear  of any one that needs) 
PASTORAL SUPPORT 
please  contact Maggie and Jon Jones who are our joint Pastoral Co-ordinators)  

via our "contact us" page  

They will then be able to contact Pastoral Visitors and our Minister as required. 

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STOURBRIDGE BEREAVEMENT HUB

 

Mary Stevens Hospice Hub Offering Care Compassion and Kindness to those seeking a safe space for a supportive listening and friendship that offers a smile and a cuppa

Our Hub aims to offer a safe and secure environment for those who are bereaved. To feel supported and to improve health and wellbeing, reducing isolation. For more information contact The Patient and Family Support Services at Mary Stevens Hospice Call 01384 443010 Or Email pafss@marystevenshospice.co.uk The Stourbridge Institute Social Club, Market Street, Entrance via Bell Street, Stourbridge, DY8 1AE

Last Thursday of each month 10.30-12.00

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 SUNDAY October 17th  10.30 a.m.

Worship will be led by sue Simpson

Junior Church has now re-started – young people are welcome to join in

The Prayer room will be open from 10.00 a.m.

 

Prayer Ministry is available in the prayer room following the service

COME AND JOIN US   

Church Council sends a message that while Covid is still very much with us Methodist Headquarters remind us that it is advisable to continue to wear face coverings as we gather in worship.

We are all longing for the time when that will end, but for the time being, you are asked to please wear your masks if possible to reduce the risk of transmission.      

We're gradually easing back into church worship, groups etc. Covid isn't going away, so we still need to be vigilant,              but we're learning to live with it and hopefully vaccinations will prevent us from serious illness if we do catch it.
Anyway we won't let it defeat us.

Refreshments are available after worship now, and it's good to be able to sit and chat with friends after worship.

Stay safe and as well as you can be

Next week  

Worship will be led by Rev Joseph Suray

Shout for joy all the earth.  Worship the Lord with gladness;  come before Him with joyful songs.

Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are His. 

We are His people, the sheep of His pasture.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.

For the Lord is good and His love endures for ever; His faithfulness continues through all generations

                                                                                                                                                (Psalm 100)

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: October 9th

                                 David Hartle passed away on Thursday morning, October 14^th.                                             

Dave is now safe with the Lord whom he has served faithfully for so many years.

We give thanks for all his faithful service and we hold Jo, Sally and all of the family in our love and prayers.

 

We continue to hold in prayer all those who are in poor health in body, mind and spirit at this time.  

Phillippa Marshall (GB)and James Watkins were married recently.                       

Congratulations to you both. May God richly bless your future together

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APPOINTMENTS

 REVEREND PETER BROWN’S RE-INVITATION

(These notes are from the Circuit Meeting of 13.9.21.)

 Joseph reminded the meeting that members are here to agree to the process of the re-invitation. Peter has offered to stay on for two more years from September 2022. The recommendation of the Invitations Committee was unanimously accepted. The meeting applauded this decision.

Peter thanked the meeting and said that he believes that we have the resources in our Circuit to move forward. This will be a challenge but we must do this. There is a lot of work ahead but with love and support this can be achieved. Joseph thanked Peter and reminded the meeting that our churches need to work with our Ministers as a team. Ministers are here to serve and churches are responsible for their care and we need to pray for them.

Circuit Stewards

Maureen Stanley and Jill Rushton (Central) have agreed to offer themselves as Circuit Stewards

As we return gradually to normality, minutes of the Circuit Meetings and Church Council Meetings will be available for you to read. They will be found in the folder in the church side entrance

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 DIARY DATES

THIS WEEK 

Tuesday       Oct.  19th                             Boys Brigade

Wednesday  Oct 20^th  7.00 p.m.             Keep Fit with Sheila

Thursday      Oct 21^st                              Girls Brigade

 COMING SOON...

TUESDAY  OCTOBER 26^tH  7.00 pm AT CENTRAL

Meeting with Chair of the District to reflect on the life of the Circuit and explore possibilities. 

All are invited to attend.

 

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 6th  10.00 AM – 1.00 P.M.    VISION DAY

We are hosting a vision day at Hasbury on November 6th, 2021. 

We will gather from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and finish with a 'Bring and Share' lunch. This is an opportunity for the Church Family to dream, explore, share, and shape our future vision and mission together.

Sunday November 14^th  Remembrance Sunday

 

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 20^th MEMORIAL SERVICE

A Memorial Service is being planned for families of members who died during COVID.  There will be a preliminary time for families to gather for refreshments followed by a time of remembrance and reflection. Further information to follow

 

ALSO COMING SOON...

you're invited to...

 an Advent Study Group course to prepare us for the main event:

the arrival of the Christ child.     

It will be a fun way to look forward to Dec 25th with stories, puzzles, Bible readings and discussion.              There will also be time share a cuppa and a cake, to spend time with friends and to re- connect with one another after a stressful time of isolation. The theme is "forgiving and forgetting"  So do come and join us on

Wednesday evenings from 7.15 for a prompt start at 7.30.

November24th: a time for GIVING

December 1st:  a time for GETTING

December 8th  : a time for FORGIVING

December 15th: a time for FORGETTING

 

Please register your interest with Eileen or sign the list on the noticeboard. 

First 50 places are FREE!

 

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EVERY DAY WITH JESUS BIBLE NOTES

The current book ends at the end of October and I will re order the next copy soon. If you would like a ‘free’ copy that’s great but would you please consider making a small donation to cover the cost of producing these books.  A suggested amount is £2 (see back page of book)

I will then send off a cheque on your behalf.I will leave a list on the entrance table for you to sign, and a box for your voluntary donations.

                                                                                                 Many Thanks Joy Jones

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ACTION FOR CHILDREN FUNDRAISER

 

Last year we had to resort to a virtual coffee morning which was fun but simply didn’t smell the same!

This year is also going to be different but still inspired by Sylvia and her commitment to the work of Action for Children, as her son Rob runs 3 marathons on consecutive days, 4th, 5th and Saturday 6th November to raise funds for the charity

The race on Saturday 6th November will also be Robert’s 100th competitive marathon

Donations can be made online at: - https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/robert-smith190?utm_id=27     or, alternatively passed to John                                                                                                                            We never take for granted the generosity of our friends and the many others who support Hasbury Methodist Church’s continuing commitment to the work of Action for Children – but when possible, we do like to make it fun!                                         

Thank You                                           John Smith

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TEAMS4U SHOEBOXES

Although we still face many challenges nearer to home, and likely to be doing so for some time to come, children and young people in many parts of the world continue to suffer deprivation that is hard to describe as well as facing the consequences of the global pandemic.  So, put simply, it would be wonderful if you are able to get involved and ‘fill’ a Shoebox!

Leaflets, posters and ‘flat pack’ shoeboxes are available from Alan Cummings or John Smith, plus there should be some in the foyer

Shoeboxes and any items donated as ‘fillers’ will be taken to Teams4U’s warehouse in Evesham on

Monday 22 November, for checking prior to being forwarded on to this year’s destinations

There’s a wealth of useful information on the Teams4U website and an invitation to hear more via ‘zoom’ on October 20th (www.teams4u.com)

This is a breakdown of the total number of Shoeboxes distributed following the 2020 campaign: -

 

 

 

 

This link includes Dave Cooke talking about Shoeboxes and the impact it has on the lives of individuals: - 

https://youtu.be/mnAfdxREX-8 

  Thank you        John Smith

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HASBURY SHOP

If you’re looking for a gift – then please check out items we have on sale at our own Hasbury Shop  (in the foyer)
There are a number of items including a selection of paintings by Jean Dunn. Jean’s family kindly donated them to the church in memory of Jean to sell for church funds.  All donations are welcome – as well as items for sale 

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                                    Laughter is the best medicine                                               

 

A bishop and a headmistress arrived in Heaven at the same time. When the formidable lady was greeted at the gates by St Peter she was ushered straight through to the best rooms. The bishop meanwhile was sent along the corridor to much less salubrious surroundings. When he questioned the meaning of this unfair treatment St Peter answered,

‘My dear Bishop, that woman has put the fear of God into more people than you have in a lifetime!!’

                                                                                                               ( Adapted from The Little Book of Heavenly Humour by Sid Little)

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: October 9th

Mary Weston celebrated  her 100^th Birthday at Yew Tree Care Home on 3^rd October

Pam Turbutt (Dunn) sent these lovely photos of her Mum on her birthday

                                    

The home were wonderful for mums birthday  - they decorated the summerhouse in the garden for us.  

Mum had a sash and a silver100 tiara.  Sadly she had no idea what was going on but was happy.
Jen and John, Jane and Rachel, me and Jonathan  were there and we linked on Jon's laptop to Andrew in USA and Philip in Selby. Thank you to all at Hasbury who put messages on Facebook. Pam

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Dave Hartle is very weak and is receiving palliative care Valley Court Home,               

Roger Adams has had a very stressful time and been undergoing tests at Russells Hall

“A massive thank you to our church family for all your support during  really stressful week. We appreciate your messages and  flowers but, most of all, your prayers. What began with what seemed to be a life-threatening situation looks as if it can be managed with medication. Instead of Roger’s heart failing it’s beating too often!  We’ll be for ever grateful to the staff at Russells Hall. They are working under unimaginable pressure ( 6 doctors for around 200 patients in A & E at one time it seemed). They have been unfailingly kind, polite and supportive and once again we’re indebted to the NHS. With love from Roger and Eileen xx”

Barbara Tivey out of hospital, though still with a very painful shoulder

We continue to hold in love and prayer all of those who are in special need of prayer just now,
and those who are caring for them

From Veronica:

May God go before you this week. And make the rough roads smooth

May His joy be your strength and His peace fill your heart.

                        We send Veronica our love and our thanks for this message

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 dates for your diary
this week

MONDAY OCTOBER 11th 7.30 pm  
HASBURY CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING

Only church council members may vote, propose or second any resolution,
but  Church Council meetings are open to church members and those active in the life of the church.

We are in difficult times in the life of the church

– please feel free to come along if you have questions and would like clarification on issues raised.

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 13TH 7.00 pm  Keep Fit with Sheila at Hasbury

 

SATURDAY OCTOBER 16^th    5.30 – 6.30 pm CAFE CHURCH AT HASBURY

Cafe Church is for all ages. Come in – sit informally around  a table with a cup of tea/coffee or soft drink,  and relax.

Explore worship creatively with music, reflections, crafts, quizzes, videos, prayer and fellowship and anything else you might think of.

Make a note in your diary and come along  

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coming soon..

 

TUESDAY  OCTOBER 26^tH  7.00 pm AT CENTRAL

Meeting with Chair of the District to reflect on the life of the Circuit and explore possibilities.  See letter from Joseph below. All are invited to attend.

From Rev. Dr. Joseph Suray…...

Dear friends,

Following a conversation with the Chair of the district on Monday the 4th we have agreed to have an open meeting with him. Therefore, you are invited to attend this meeting on the 26th of October (when the Chair is available) at 7 pm at Central Methodist Church. The meeting is open to all members of our churches. 

Let us continue to pray and ask the Lord to guide us through these difficult times for our Circuit today.

Looking forward to seeing you all on the day so that we can reflect on the life of the Circuit, and also raise all possible questions and try to find a possible solution for the challenge that we have at the moment.

God bless you.   Be assured of my prayers.
 With much appreciation.   Joseph

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 6TH  10.00 AM – 1.00 P.M.    VISION DAY

We are hosting a vision day at Hasbury on November 6th, 2021. 

We will gather from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and finish with a 'Bring and Share' lunch. This is an opportunity for the Church Family to dream, explore, share, and shape our future vision and mission together.

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CHURCH FLOWER ROTA      

A new flower rota has been put up in the vestibule (car park side) Please would you consider adding your name to the list, offering to provide flowers to enhance worship .

This in itself is an as an act of thanksgiving to God for all the blessings we receive from him.

May be you have an anniversary or the birthday of a loved one you would like to remember, or a date which is very special for you, or just a random date is fine. 

A vase of flowers, however simple is an act of praise to our Creator God.

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TEAMS4U SHOEBOX APPEAL

 

 We are resuming our annual collection of 'shoeboxes'.
oxes are now available so start gathering your bits and bobs..

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ACTION FOR CHILDREN FUNDRAISER

November has traditionally been the month that the ‘Smiths’ invited folk round and encouraged

them to part with a bit of cash in exchange for a bacon sandwich, cakes, and all manner of ‘the highest quality’ bric a brac, plus things they never knew they needed or wanted until they entered the  Sylvia’s / Aladdin’s cave

Over the past 20+ years many thousands of pounds have been raised for Action for Children at these events

Last year we had to resort to a virtual coffee morning which was fun but simply didn’t smell the same!

This year is also going to be different but still inspired by Sylvia and her commitment to the work of Action for Children, as her son Rob runs 3 marathons on consecutive days, 4th, 5th and Saturday 6th November to raise funds for the charity

The race on Saturday 6th November will also be Robert’s 100th competitive marathon

Donations can be made online at: - https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/robert-smith190?utm_id=27

Or, alternatively passed to John

You can of course still have a bacon sandwich (with your choice of red or brown sauce) -  just don’t expect John, Roger or Alan to provide door to door delivery! 

We never take for granted the generosity of our friends and the many others who support Hasbury Methodist Church’s continuing commitment to the work of Action for Children – but when possible, we do like to make it fun!

Thank you                                  John Smith

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If you’re looking for a gift – then please check out items we have on sale at our own Hasbury Shop. There are a number of items including a selection of paintings by Jean Dunn. Jean’s family kindly donated them to the church in memory of Jean to sell for church funds.  All donations are welcome – including items for sale

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Laughter is the best medicine

 

A pastor, well known for his lengthy sermons , noticed a man get up and leave in the middle of his message and return just before the conclusion of the service. After the congregation had left the pastor caught up with the man and asked him where he had gone during the service.

‘I went to get a haircut’ was the reply

‘But why didn’t you do that before the service?’ asked the pastor.

‘Because I didn’t need one then.’ the man replied

                                                                   Adapted from The Little Book of Heavenly Humour by Sid Little

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: October 2nd

Wendy Tether sends her thanks for all the cards, gifts and good wishes on her 80^th Birthday.

Barbara Tivey is in intense pain and is undergoing tests at the Queen Elizabeth hospital.

Jean Graham is back in hospital  

David Hartle's family have asked that you are told that Dave is currently receiving end-of-life care at Valley Court Care Home. They are able to visit but he is largely unaware of their presence. He appears to be comfortable and is receiving 24 hour care.                                                                                     

 

We hold  all of these dear friends in our love and prayers.

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Psalm 8

O Lord, our Lord,

How majestic is your name in all the earth!

You have set your glory above the heavens.  From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise because of your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.

When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?

You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honour.

You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet: all flocks and herds,  the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas.

O Lord, our Lord,

How majestic is your name in all the earth

 

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 TEAMS4U SHOEBOX APPEAL

 

 We are resuming our annual shoebox appeal

Boxes are now available so start collecting.

       

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     HASBURY TREASURER

             We’re not in the red you’ll be pleased to know,

            so now is a good time to begin as Treasurer.

                                       
  Who fits the shape??????????                                                                                                                                                                                        

You don’t have to be an exact fit – we can do a remould          

wider or taller or shorter or whatever – just willing and able      

Alan’s hoping to hear from you soon !

(YOUR church really does need YOU!)

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All it takes is a phone call to Maureen Stanley or Jan Lear to order your special tea.

Cream Tea £10. 00 pp Posh Tea £15. 00 pp .   
All we need is a week’s  notice of your date please.      

 Contact Jan Lear   or Maureen Stanley 

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HASBURY CHURCHES LUNCH CLUB

 

It is proposed that Hasbury C.F. Hasbury M.C. and St Margaret's C of E ,the 3 churches in Hasbury, try to start up the Lunch Club again monthly starting on Oct 11th from 11 30am till about 2 30pm.  We are very much feeling our way as we are so short of helpers in the kitchen, and also drivers.

If you can spare a couple of hours to help with this worthwhile venture please contact Joy Jones

Alternatively if you or someone you know would like to come along and have a lovely meal prepared for you to enjoy together with some fellowship, please do contact me. Hopefully transport should be available if you need it!

If you can help with transport or basic kitchen duties you could have a free meal as well!!! 

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Sunday November 14th  Remembrance Sunday

Sunday 28th November.    First Sunday in Advent

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MEMORIAL SERVICE

A Memorial Service is being planned for families of members who died during COVID.
This will be held on a Saturday.
There will be a preliminary time for families to gather for refreshments
followed by a time of remembrance and reflection. Date to be arranged.

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LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE

  

 

One day a Catholic an Anglican and a Methodist decided to go fishing. 
They got in their boat and rowed their way over to the middle of the lake. 
The Catholic remarked, 'I've forgotten my hat,' so he got up, got out of the boat and walked across the water.
He returned and the Anglican said, 'I've forgotten the fishing bait,' so he got up, climbed out of the boat and walked across the water.
He came back and the Methodist murmured, 'I've forgotten the thermos flask.' 
He got up, jumped out of the boat and was standing in the water then he sank.
The Anglican turned to the Catholic and asked,
 'Do you think we ought to tell him were the stepping stones are?'

……………………………………….

 

A father was reading Bible stories to his young son.
He read, 'The man named Lot was warned to take his wife and flee out of the city,
but his wife looked back and was turned to salt.'

His son asked, 'What happened to the flea?'

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: SEPTEMBER 25th 

Wendy Tether celebrates her 80^th Birthday on September 29^th                   

Happy Birthday Wendy

 

We continue to hold in our love and prayers:                           

Jean and Terry Graham as Jean’s health is still very fragile

David Hartle and  his family as he is cared for at Valley Court Care Home                        

 

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 WHO’s THE NEW CHURCH TREASURER ?

       

 

  Well, as you can see, the shape has not yet been filled 

  If you are thinking about it, could you maybe work alongside Alan for a while to try it out.

 

Alan will welcome your help with a cup of tea and wave a flag or two with a cheery smile.

(please note this is Hasbury Treasurer not Circuit Treasurer

and although this ad is a little lighthearted it really is an important role and we urgently need to fill it)

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WEDNESDAY FELLOWSHIP GROUP

 

meets on Wednesday September 29^th 7.30 pm at church.

We’ll be looking at James chapter 3 v 1-18.

We meet on the last Wednesday of the month.

You are welcome to join us.

If you’d like to come along let Maureen Jeavons know and I will send you the study material for this session.

Prayer from the Methodist Prayer Handbook

 

Lord Jesus, may we feel your comforting arms enfolding us on our journey with you. Keep us safe and protect us.  You are our comforter and friend, and you are with us, even in our darkest moments.  Thank  you that you will never leave us alone: your love surrounds us, always and in all places: no one is beyond your reach including those who feel they are unlovable; help us to show your love to all.  You reach out in times of depression, stress or anxiety and place your healing hand on us.  We claim your promise never to leave or forsake us.  Comforting, loving and redeeming God, through you, may we see the rainbow after the clouds.  Amen

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 HASBURY CHURCHES LUNCH CLUB

 

It is proposed that Hasbury C.F. Hasbury M.C. and St Margaret's C of E ,the 3 churches in Hasbury, try to start up the Lunch Club again monthly starting on Oct 11th from 11 30am till about 2 30pm.  We are very much feeling our way as we are so short of helpers in the kitchen, and also drivers.

If you can spare a couple of hours to help with this worthwhile venture please contact Joy Jones

Alternatively if you or someone you know would like to come along and have a lovely meal prepared for you to enjoy together with some fellowship, please do contact me. Hopefully transport should be available if you need it!

If you can help with transport or basic kitchen duties you could have a free meal as well!!!

                                                                                                            Joy Jones 0121 550 6372.

 

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BLACK COUNTRY FOOD BANK (BCF)

 

With the growing normalisation of things we shall be renewing the collection of food bank donations on 
Hasbury Church premises 

Many thanks to those who have been collecting at home outlets with their supplies during the lockdown period.

(at the moment those collection points will still be available)

Starting this Sunday the large bags will be available in the foyer for you to place your donated items in as we did before the pandemic situation.

If you have any questions or comments please talk to me, Peter Jones

Your anticipated support is greatly appreciated.

                                                                                                                        Peter Jones

 

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

 LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE                                                       

 

A Christian was thrown to the lions in the Colosseum in Rome. He somehow managed to climb out of the arena and ran off down the street. The lion also managed to jump out and gave chase. After about a mile or so the Christian could run no more so he stopped fell down on his knees and prayed,

‘Lord, I can run no more please save me. Make this lion a Christian too’

Suddenly, before his eyes a glow comes upon the lion and he too gets down on his knees in front of the Christian, and looking up to heaven crosses himself and says ‘For what we are about to receive ……… 

                                                                    Adapted from The Little Book of Heavenly Humour by Sid Little

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 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

 

Wednesday October 6^th 7.30  MEN’S SUPPER CLUB  at Short Cross. Please contact Stephen Ward if you would like to join in: tel: 0121 503 0167 email stephenjward925@yahoo.co.uk

Thursday October 7^th        PRAYER AND HEALING SERVICE 7.30 at Short Cross led by Rev. Peter Brown

Sunday October 10^th         HARVEST   gifts of food this year will go the Food Bank, monetary gifts will be given   
                                            to Wheels School

 

Monday October 11^th 7.30 pm CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING

Only church council members may vote, propose or second any resolution, but  Church Council meetings are open to church members and those active in the life of the church.

We are in difficult times in the life of the church – please feel free to come along if you have questions and would like clarification on issues raised.

 

Sunday November 14^th  REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

Sunday 28^th November.    First Sunday in Advent

 

A Memorial Service is being planned for families of members who died during COVID. This will be held on a Saturday. There will be a preliminary time for families to gather for refreshments followed by a time of remembrance and reflection. Date to be arranged.

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COMING SOON…..…..………..………..………..………..…..….

CAFE CHURCH

on Saturday October 16^th  5.30 – 6.30 pm                   

and Saturday December 4^th 5.30 – 6.30 pm

What is it? 

Cafe Church is for all ages. Come in – sit informally around  a table with a cup of tea/coffee or soft drink,  and relax.

Explore worship creatively with music, reflections, crafts, quizzes, videos, prayer and fellowship and anything else you might think of.

Make a note in your diary and come along

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: SEPTEMBER 19th 

 

Dave Hartle is now in Valley Court Care Home. 

We hold Dave and also Joanne and Sally and all of the family in our love and prayers.                                    

Please hold in your prayers all those of our church family who are struggling with

health problems at present.

.

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              WHO FITS THIS SHAPE?

                                                                           

            IS IT YOU?????

 

 

Hasbury has a person shaped gap which urgently needs to be filled

Do you fit this gap?

We need a TREASURER to take over from Alan Cummings

Could you be that person ???????

Are you thinking – “someone will offer”.
Maybe that

"someone" could be YOU

Please will someone out there step into the shape and see if it fits – talk to Alan if you are willing to try

PLEASE contact Alan. He,  and the rest of the church family,  really need you.

…………………………………………………………………………………….

Loving your light, O Lord, may our hearts rejoice in Your goodness. Living in your light, may our lives reveal Your grace.  Walking in Your light, may our works reflect Your glory.        Amen

From the Methodist Prayer Handbook

 *****************************************************************************

KEEP FIT

IS COMING BACK!

FIRST SESSION: WEDNESDAY 22ND SEPTEMBER
Meet at 7.00, Start at 7.15, END AT 8.15

EVERYONE WELCOME

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CRAFT GROUP                                                                 

A decision has been made that Craft Group will not re-open until the New Year.

 *****************************************************************************

 

GROUP MEETINGS AT HASBURY

 

Hi everyone. Some time ago I asked people who are group leaders if they would like to edit their own page on the website. As yet, NO –ONE  has taken up my generous offer! But people in the community are looking at it and it’s a great way to stay in touch. I often get asked questions about your groups which I have to rub my crystal ball to find an answer (or make a lot of phone calls)! It would be so much easier if you updated your own pages. Let me know if you would like to do this, then I’ll give you the password and, if you need it, guidance on what to do.

Thanks everyone in advance

Eileen

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EVERYDAY WITH JESUS BIBLE READING NOTES

 

A few copies of these are available in the foyer. Please help yourself if you would like a copy.

If you would like to receive them regularly, please speak to Joy Jones 

                                     ****************************************************************************

                    LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE                                                       

This is for all those of us who've become jigsaw addicts during the pandemic:

An elderly lady was keen to start a new puzzle. Having tipped all the pieces on to the table she had no idea where to start. So she went next door and asked her neighbour if he would come and help her to get started. He asked her what the picture was. "Oh," she replied, "it's a beautiful rooster." He willingly agreed to help her. Back at her house he took a look at all the pieces and then said, " Come and sit down and I'll make you a cup of tea. And while you drink it I'll put the cornflakes back in the packet!"

*************************************************************************************************************
HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: SEPTEMBER 12th 

• Anthea Adams is unwell and is awaiting test results
•  Ken Tivey has polymyalgia which is very painful
• Maggie Jones is in a lot of pain with her hip
  
• Jean Graham is now out of hospital. Jean we’re so glad you’re back home and pray you’ll feel a little better day by day.

 

We hold all who are unwell just now, in our love and prayers

  *****************************************************************************

COMING SOON…CAFE CHURCH

 

on Saturday October 16^th  5.30 – 6.30 pm                   

and Saturday December 4^th 5.30 – 6.30 pm

 

What is it? 

Cafe Church is for all ages. Come in – sit informally around  a table with a cup of tea/coffee or soft drink,  and relax.

Explore worship creatively with music, reflections, crafts, quizzes, videos, prayer and fellowship and anything else you might think of.

 

Make a note in your diary and come along

  ******************************************************************************

 

            EVERYDAY WITH JESUS BIBLE READING NOTES

 

A few copies of these are available on the desk as you go into church. Please help yourself if you would like a copy. If you would like to receive them regularly, please speak to Joy Jones Tel 0121 550 6372

 

  ******************************************************************************

 

News from 'Dudley's Weekly Pause'                                       

COATS FOR KIDS!

Coats for Kids are a community group who collect donations of coats and distribute them to families who need them.

Every child needs a warm winter coat and as children return to school many families may be worried about buying uniforms and other school essentials. Coats for Kids can help with their free and confidential service. If you would like to donate or request a coat, please contact the group at coatsforkidsdudley@outlook.com

 Find out more on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/coatsforkidsstourbridgeanddudley/

Joy Jones is happy to take coats to the centre if you have any which you can pass on. 

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CRAFT CLUB

has a preliminary  meeting on Wednesday 15th September 2.30 – 4.30.

(this is a change to our normal pattern but then nothing’s “normal” at the moment!)

Members will have already received a letter or an email but if you need further details please contact EILEEN

                                                                                                       
                                                

  ******************************************************************************

RECYCLING IS BACK !  

         
We now collect the following items ONLY:

• ·  Postcards for Mission Aviation Fellowship
• · Stamps for the Leprosy Mission
• · Used Ink Cartridges & Spectacles for the Emily Jordan Trust
• · Toiletries and school supplies for Black Country Wheels
• · Used pens and felt pens for Mary Stevens Hospice
• · Old Telephones  for the Karibuni Trust
• And, of course, FOOD  for the Black Country foodbank

I don’t know yet about crisp packets but we DEFINITELY CANNOT collect plastic bottle tops

  ******************************************************************************

 

IF YOU ARE PLANNING A MEETING ON CHURCH PREMISES……..

 

Please remember to check whether the room is available as some groups are beginning to start up again in the daytime and evening. 

Thank you from Alison to those who have already contacted her.

Also contact Eileen if your group is starting again so she can update the website.

And because we know a number of people were twitchy about relaxing regulations. ..we need to remind people to sanitise hands when entering AND leaving the building and to wear a mask.

 We’re not back to “normal” and Covid hasn’t gone away.

  ******************************************************************************

METHODIST PRAYER HANDBOOK

 

Copies of the prayer handbook can be ordered via the circuit office. You can pray for the Methodist Church around the world and there are also daily readings throughout the year.

The Methodist Prayer Handbook 2021/2022: A Place for All – standard £4.50, £4.15 for 10+

The Methodist Prayer Handbook 2021/2022: A Place for All – lectern large print £4.50, £4.15 for 10

Let me know (Maureen 0121 550 7992 or email) as soon as possible, and I will let the circuit office know how many we need.

 

A Prayer from the Handbook:

Lord, our refuge and strength, our hope and our future, give us confidence in all our troubles to find our rest in you;  in all our challenges to find our help in you;  in all our days to find our companionship in you.  That through our trust in you the world might believe in Jesus, the way, the truth and the life.  Amen

  ******************************************************************************

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE 

                                               

 

Two nuns were driving through the countryside when they ran out of fuel.  They walked to a nearby farmhouse for help and the kindly farmer said that they could syphon some of the fuel from his tractor.

However they could not find anything in which to carry the fuel, until the farmer produced a battered old chamber pot. The nuns filled the pot with fuel, walked back to the car and began pouring it in.

A passing motorist, hardly believing what he saw, stopped and said
“I don’t agree with your religion, but I admire your faith !”

………………………………………….

 

Preacher  -  Can everyone hear me at the back?

Voice from the back  -  Yes, but I wouldn’t mind changing places with someone who can’t

 

   ***********************************************************************************************************

HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: SEPTEMBER 4th 

  ******************************************************************************

PRINTING

There is no printing team at present.

Dave Hartle is in very poor health and unable to continue

Jean Cooke is waiting for a hip operation and needs Rod’s help.

A big THANK YOU to Rod, Jean and Dave for all the work they have done in the printing office over the years.

 

If anyone thinks they may be able to take up this task, please let Rod Cooke know and he can give you all the information you need.  

  ******************************************************************************

 CAFE CHURCH

 

There is a meeting on Wednesday 8th September at Hasbury 7pm to discuss this new venture.

Anyone interested please come along and share your ideas
Look forward to seeing you
Every Blessing                     Jan Lear

  ******************************************************************************

GROUP LEADERS

 

To all group leaders: please let Eileen know if and when you will be meeting so that she can update the website. She is getting enquiries from folk  who want to know dates. And remember, if you nominate someone from your organisation you can update your own page.

  ******************************************************************************

CREAM TEAS                                                                                         

 

All it takes is a phone call to Maureen Stanley or Jan Lear to order your special tea.
Cream Tea £10 .00. PP Posh Tea £ 15 .00. PP .    All we need is a week’s  notice of your date please.      

 Contact; Jan Lear   or Maureen Stanley

 

  ****************************************************************************** 

Life is very uncertain just now. If you are feeling troubled about world events, about the future of society, of the health service, the future of our churches, anxious about what you can safely do and where you can safely go – read these words from 2 Corinthians 4 vv 8,9, 16-18

 

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair: persecuted, but not abandoned, struck down, but not destroyed.

Therefore we do not lose heart.  Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.  For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

 

We have an anchor that keeps the soul, steadfast and sure while the billows roll

Fastened to the Rock which cannot move, grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love

 

COME ON HASBURY  -  WHATEVER IT IS, WE CAN DO IT – TRY PRAYING  -  READ ON...

                                                                                                        

 

In the last 12 months :-

• Number of trypraying booklets sold. 33,500 (750,000 all time).
• Number of orders from churches and individuals 630.
• Number of perspex boxes for booklets - 230. Number of churches ordering materials - 320.  
• Number of people seeing a banner in a two week period - 10,050,000.*
• Number trypraying banners sold - 150.
• Number of people seeing a banner in a two week period - 10,050,000.*

* This is the number of 'Likely to see' impacts in a two week period calculated by Route, a research company used by advertising agencies. It is averaged across a variety of locations where banners have been bought this year and it excludes the 1000+ banners bought and still being used from pervious years.
The impact has been amazing. How many people have become Christians as a result?
If 1 in 10 people who received a trypraying booklet became a Christian it would be a lot of people!
But  nobody knows - except God who sees the hearts of each person.

End of story? not quite

Two months ago in the fishing port of Lochinver in the far north of Scotland a conversation took place between a visitor and two fishermen who were mending their nets (sounds Biblical!) After talking about fishing, life in general and Brexit the conversation changed and the visitor had a great witnessing opportunity. He shared very openly with the two guys who showed real interest. A trypraying booklet was given at the conclusion and readily received. End of story? Not quite...

 This came into our office two weeks later from someone who ordered 10 copies of the trypraying booklet.

"I heard about try praying through my son who is a fisherman. He fishes out of Lochinver on the
north west coast of Scotland. While working on his boat in port he met a gentleman who shared
about trypraying. He left a copy of the trypraying booklet with my son who passed it to me. I was
very impressed with its simplicity and the depth of its message. I want to share the book with
others in my family. The booklet is uplifting and I noticed a change in myself after reading it and
taking action." We just never know what story develops when we share our faith or pass on a booklet to someone!
The story continues -

11 years ago at the outset of trypraying someone said, “This is huge.’
In a prayer meeting a few weeks later someone else said, “Trypraying is for the nation”; and then corrected herself and said
“No. It’s for the nations.”
Over these years we have seen some amazing things take place. There are significant developments in America, we have a Spanish translation now, it is being translated into French and there is interest in Germany. The prisoners booklet is in Sri Lanka and trypraying materials are available in Australia and New Zealand. However, the real story is about inviting people who don't know God to become those who do.

But we have a question for 2022.
Join the story?

 Would you like to be part of extending the story among your friends, your church and your
town/city in 2022 ? In April next year we are looking for hundreds of churches and thousands of people who will be part of a ‘Use It and Lose It’ initiative culminating on Palm Sunday - a good date to make some noise about Jesus. Would you like to be part of this? Let us know. We will be sending information and ideas over the coming months

 

NOTE: We’ll be putting some TryPraying booklets out shortly for you to take

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LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE   

 

The 17 year old son of a clergyman had just received his driving license and asked his father if they could discuss the use of his car.

“If you work hard and get good grades at school, study your bible and get your hair cut then we’ll talk about it “ was the reply.

A month later the boy came back to his father and asked again.

“Well son” said his father “I’m really proud of you, you have worked hard at school and studied your bible….. but you didn’t get your hair cut!”

The young man waited a moment and then replied “You know Dad Samson, Moses and Noah all had long hair and so did Jesus!”

“I know “ said his father “And they walked everywhere!!”

                                                                 

                                                            Adapted from The Little Book of Heavenly Humour by Sid Little

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

************************************************************************************************************

HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: AUGUST 28th 

Roy and Margaret Parton are now out and about having recovered from Covid

Chris Webb, Cara, Cameron and Charlotte have been on holiday and contracted Covid. They are now recovering, though not quite back to normal fitness yet. Leigh and Cara’s husband Ian both managed to escape the virus.

Barbara Tivey has had a cararact removed, and Ken is still suffering a lot of pain in his leg.

Dave Hartle is very unwell                                                                                                            

We hold all of these people in our love and prayers

 

Eileen and Roger Adams have a new great grandson                       

Elliot Michael Waite was born on 18^th August. Congratulations and prayers for Elliot and his family

 

We hold our brothers and sisters at Hurst Green our prayers as they have their final  meeting together this weekend. May they find a welcome and a new spiritual home wherever they decide to worship

 

PRAYER AND HEALING SERVICE Thursday Sept 2^nd

 

There is a prayer and healing service at Short Cross on Thursday Sept 2^nd at 7.30 p.m.

 

PRAYER MEETING                                                                       

We have a zoom prayer meeting on Wednesday September 1st at 7.00 p.m.

Please let me know if you would like to join us and I will send you the link

 

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.  And pray for us too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone

(Colossians 4: 2, 3, 6)

   ******************************************************************************

CAFE CHURCH

 

There is a meeting on Wednesday 8th September at Hasbury 7pm to discuss this new venture.

Anyone interested please come along and share your ideas

Look forward to seeing you

Every Blessing                     Jan Lear

  ******************************************************************************

MENS SUPPER CLUB  

Mens Supper club will recommence on Wednesday September 1^st at 7.30 pm at Short Cross.  

If you would like to attend please let Stephen Ward know 

 

  ******************************************************************************

VACANCIES

 

There are still vacancies to be filled in service to the church.

If you can fill one, please jump right in and give your name to one of the stewards, especially if you can fil the role of Hasbury treasurer, or circuit treasurer

  ******************************************************************************

ART MATERIALS AT CROSSWAY

We are sorting through stuff at Crossway and have a considerable amount sugar paper, card and scribble paper plus some other materials such as sponges, paint brushes, animal stencils and about 6 small children's painting aprons.
I you would like any of these materials for your group, please contact Christine Robson  and we’ll arrange a pick up. If I don’t hear I’ll ask other children’s workers but I wanted circuit to have first pick
Thank you so much
Christine

                  

 ******************************************************************************

OPEN DOOR - PROVISIONAL DATE FOR RESUMPTION          

Any dates given are provisional on the current rate of infections reducing.

Maggie & Jon Jones and myself have had a number of conversations and are happy to continue as ‘leaders / organisers’ of Open Door and agree that regular meetings, between 2 – 4pm on alternate Tuesday afternoons should resume, however we are acutely aware that, even with the covid secure arrangements implemented at Hasbury the format of the sessions will need to be adapted to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone attending

We have decided not to ‘rush back’ and allow time during which the current high number of infections will hopefully reduce; at the same time assess how the reopening of Hasbury for other activities progresses

We are aiming to have a meeting between 2 – 4pm on Tuesday 7 December where we will offer mince pies and drinks (tea, coffee, etc.) - More details will follow nearer the date

Subject to it being ‘safe’ to do so we hope to be in a position to resume meeting regularly in the new year (2022) in the first instance probably as simple tea/coffee afternoons without guest speakers

John Smith

Open Door is an important ministry of the Church and we will continue to hold the work and the leaders in our prayers.                                                     Peter Brown

 

 ****************************************************************************
LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE 

                                 

A young curate, trying to wake up his sleepy congregation, suddenly interrupted his sermon with the words “I remember the time when I was in the arms of another man’s wife!” 
Everyone sat up. 
 “She was  the wife of my father” he added, to the chuckles from the congregation.

The bishop heard of this incident and decided that the joke would make an excellent introduction to his next sermon.  He stood  up in the cathedral, before a vast congregation of Lord, Mayor, town councillors and civic dignitaries. 
 “ I remember the time when I was in the arms of another man’s wife”  he began, with great aplomb. 
Then there was a long pause. 
The bishop stammered “Just for the moment, I can’t remember whose wife she was!”

 *******************************************************************************

A lady asked the Reverend Charles Simeon if a Christian should always be talking about religion.

“No, no”, exclaimed the great preacher. “Let your speech be seasoned with salt – seasoned with salt, madam, not a whole mouthful!”

 ***********************************************************************************

The local priest was driving down a country lane in his Morris Minor when a Mercedes careered round the bend, spun out of control and crashed into the Morris. Both cars landed in the ditch.  The driver of the Mercedes staggered over to the priest.

“By all the saints in heaven!” said the priest, “you nearly killed me!”

“I’m sorry Father” apologised the man, taking a flask of whisky from his pocket
 “Here, have a drink of this, it’ll calm your nerves”.
“Why, there’s more than an ounce of goodness in you, my son” said the priest, taking a generous swig .
“To be sure, a drop of the old stuff won’t go amiss at a time like this”  he took another gulp.
“Here, he handed the flask back “Have a swig yourself”

“Oh, no Father” said the man calmly, “I’ll just wait her till the police arrive”

                                                                                                From Preachers at large by Murray Watts

 

  

*************************************************************************************************************

HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:AUGUST 15th 

         

                                               

Dave Raxster celebrates his 70^th Birthday on August 16^th

Happy Birthday Dave

 

Margaret and Roy Parton have both tested positive for Covid and are isolating. 
We hold them both in our love and prayers

 

Roy Rolinson’s funeral will be at Hasbury on Tuesday August 17^th at 12.15.

Family flowers only please.

 Donations in memory of Roy will be accepted for Dementia U.K. and may be sent to

Mark Timmins Funeral Director 36/38 Windmill Hill, Colley Gate, Halesowen B63 2BZ  

   

 

  ******************************************************************************

MENS SUPPER CLUB

 

Mens Supper club will recommence on Wednesday September 1^st at 7.30 pm at Short Cross.  If you would like to attend please let Stephen Ward know 

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HURST GREEN METHODIST CHURCH

 Saturday 28th August 

Dear Friends of Hurst Green Church

To celebrate the life of the church and its impact on the Hurst Green community, we would like to welcome you to a very special open day between 10.00am and 2.00 pm on Saturday 28^th August where memories and displays of the work that the church has been involved in will be on display.

 You will be most welcome to come and share your own memories and anecdotes of the church.

 You may have photos of special events that you would like to share or can recount events and celebrations that have a significance to you and your family.

 Perhaps you attended one of the many clubs that have taken part at the church -  Toddlers group, Sunday School, Boys Brigade and Shell Group to name but a few.

 Whatever your involvement with the church we would be very interested to hear your stories.

 Light refreshments will be served, please come and join us in this very special event.

 Kindest regards and Gods Blessings to you

Hurst Green Methodist Church Council Members.

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STATEMENT TO THE BLACKHEATH AND HALESOWEN CIRCUIT OF THE METHODIST CHURCH

FROM THE MEMBERS OF CROSSWAY CHURCH CENTRE

 

Following the decision taken at Methodist Conference 2021 to adopt the report “God In Love Unites Us” the members of the Fellowship at Crossway Church Centre have unanimously agreed that the departure from fundamental Biblical principles applicable to personal relationships outlined in this document leave us unable to remain as a worshipping community within the Methodist Church.

 

All Members of the Methodist Church in our Fellowship will shortly be formally resigning their Membership and we will step out in unity and faith in the direction we feel God is calling us to follow. Our decision has not been taken lightly and follows weeks of prayerful consideration.

 

We wish our Ministers Joseph and Peter well in their future journey with Christ, our leaving the jurisdiction of the Methodist Church is in no way a detrimental reflection on their personal Ministries.

 

With God’s Blessings on you all.

Every blessing        Stephen Williams

We hold the Crossway Church Family in our love
and pray that as they journey forward,
they will know God’s blessing on their journey of faith

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                           BOTTLE TOPS                                           

 

We haven’t been able to find another place to take bottle tops so we 

DEFINITELY won’t be able to collect any more sadly

  ******************************************************************************

 

                                       LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE                                      

Childrens letters to God:

 

Dear God  I like the Lords Prayer best of all.  Did you have to write it a lot or did you get it right the first time?
I have to write everything I ever write over again.                             Lou

 

Dear God  In Bible times did they really talk that fancy?                                    Jennifer

 

Dear God  What does it mean you are a jealous God?  I thought you had everything          Jane

 

Dear God  Is Reverend Coe a friend of yours, or do you just know him through business     Donny

 Dear God   Do you know about things before they’re invented?                                         Charles

 ******************************************************************************

Your love O Lord, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains. Your justice like the great deep….with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light.   (Psalm 36 :5-6, 9)

 

These are difficult times for the Methodist Church. Let us hold each other and our ministers, Joseph and Peter in our prayers as we move forward, putting our faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and holding fast to our faith 

************************************************************************************************************

HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:AUGUST 7th

 

Please note – There will be no newsletter August 21st.  

Any items for dates between August 14^th - August 28^th need to be sent to Maureen
by mid-day on Thurs. Aug 12^th

 ******************************************************************************

                                                                                                                                               

Vera Parkes funeral will be at Hasbury on Monday August 9^th at 11.00a.m.

and afterwards at Quinton cemetery at 12.00 noon.

If you will be attending the funeral service, it would help if you can let Dave Raxster have your name and contact details in advance to save time on entering - for track and trace purposes

Donations in memory of Vera will be passed to Hasbury Methodist Church / Open Door

 

Roy Rolinson’s funeral will be at Hasbury on Tuesday August 17^th at 12.15. Family flowers only please.

 Donations in memory of Roy will be accepted for Dementia U.K. and may be sent to

Mark Timmins Funeral Director 36/38 Windmill Hill, Colley Gate, Halesowen B63 2BZ    

 

Margaret Sweeting is still in hospital until arrangements can be made for her after-care.

 

Jean Graham is still in hospital. If you would like to send a card to Jean, you may pass them on to Joy Jones who will arrange delivery.

 

We hold all of these friends and their families in our love and prayers.

Also all the young people who are awaiting exam results just now – we know how stressful it is, but remember you are loved beyond whatever results you get xx

 ******************************************************************************

TECHNICAL HITCHES

 

 

Last weekend was a little stressful. The church website was frozen by the people who administer it because they  were sure I had uploaded a virus! That would have meant BIG problems for all who receive the weekly notices, others who I’d forwarded information to etc, etc. but as my mother used to say, “It didn’t happen”.

 

 After a couple of frustrating days for me and for Maureen ( I hope her virus check on her computer has finished by now!), the problem was something entirely different. Our Family News page was 44 pages long and  the website was very unhappy! So… I’ve spent a loooooong time removing everything from last year, all the repetitive  or out of date “stuff”. If you spot any mistakes please let me know and I WILL upload the current notices when I’ve had a lie down!

Another problem that reared its head while all this was going on is that I am the only administrator on the website, so if I can’t get into it, NO ONE CAN!  So, here’s a little request, would you consider being another named administrator? You wouldn’t have to DO anything unless a) you wanted to and b) I jam up the website again! please, someone say “yes”. Every blessing, Eileen

 ******************************************************************************

A Little Reminder about Car Parking on Dudley Car Parks – in case you missed it !!

 

 Car parking charges back in force in Dudley. Although you get 2 free hours you still need a ticket. Just heard that someone got fined £50 on Bham St car park as he hadn't displayed a ticket!

 ******************************************************************************

DAILY BIBLE READING NOTES

 

Thank you to Mary Smith for her service in distributing Daily Bread notes. However Mary is no longer able to carry on with this, so  Joy Jones is ordering some copies of Every Day with Jesus Bible reading notes.

If you would like to have a regular copy of these notes please could you contact Joy  Jones

 

Every Day with Jesus daily readings are free of charge.  (Occasional donations are welcome)

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                        LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE  
                                 

                  

There was a little old lady who was nearly blind and she had three sons who each wanted to prove he was the best son.

Her first son bought her a 15 room mansion thinking this would surely outshine his brothers.

The second son bought her a beautiful Mercedes with chauffeur included, which would be sure to impress her more.

The third son had been preparing for a long time to give the best gift of all. For three years he had been training a parrot to memorise the entire Bible and quote any verse asked for. What a gift that would be for his almost blind mother.

The old lady said to the first son ‘Thank you for the beautiful house but it’s far too big for me and how would I keep it clean?’

To the second son she said ‘Thank you. What a wonderful gift, but I don’t drive and I don’t like the chauffeur so please send it back.’

To the third son she said ‘I just want to thank you for your most thoughtful gift. That chicken was delicious.’

                                                                   Adapted from The Little Book of Heavenly Humour by Sid Littl

*************************************************************************************************************

                                         HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:JULY 31st                                             

 

Roy Rolinson passed peacefully away at home on July 26^th

We hold Jan, Beth, Nic and all of the family in our love and prayers.

Roy’s long struggle is now over and he is safely with his Lord. 

Rest in peace Roy

Roy’s funeral will be at Hasbury on Tuesday August 17^th at 12.15. Family flowers only please.

 Donations in memory of Roy will be accepted for Dementia U.K. and may be sent to

Mark Timmins Funeral Director 36/38 Windmill Hill, Colley Gate, Halesowen B63 2BZ                                                                                                                

Vera Parkes funeral will be at Hasbury on Monday August 9^th at 11.00a.m.

and afterwards at Quinton cemetery at 12.00 noon.

Audrey and Peter Beasley are in respite care for a while at Allenbrook Nursing Home

 

Please hold all of these families and all who need special care just now in your love and prayers.

******************************************************************************

ROMSLEY METHODIST CHURCH

 

Romsley no longer has sufficient members to continue  and sadly will have to close.

We hold our brothers and sisters at Romsley in our love and pray that wherever they choose to make their new spiritual home will give them peace and hope.

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CHURCH GARDEN  -  HELP NEEDED PLEASE

While Roger Adams is happy to continue to cut the grass at church he’s in need of some support. Some of the edges need cutting or strimming and the kerbs need to be brushed to get rid of all the weeds. So, if you can spare an hour or two to help keep the front of the church looking neat and tidy please do what you can.

Please contact Roger  (tel:01562 885721) if you can offer to help

(Roger takes his own mower to mow the grass as the church does not currently have a mower).

CIRCUIT TREASURER NEEDED

 

 

  

                                                                                   

CREAM TEAS

 

All it takes is a phone call to Maureen Stanley or Jan Lear to order your special tea.

Cream Tea £10 .00. PP Posh Tea £ 15 .00. PP .    All we need is a week’s  notice of your date please.      

 

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LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE

Children’s letters to God (some things you’d like to ask perhaps??)                                           

In Sunday School they told us what you do.  Who does it when you are on holiday?              Jane

How did you know you were God?                 Charlie

Dear God, I read the bible.  What does begat mean. Nobody will tell me.              Love, Alison

Dear God, is it true my father won’t get in Heaven if he uses his Bowling words in the house?      Anita

Dear God, did you mean for giraffe to look like that or was it an accident?                          Norma 

Dear God, instead of letting people die and having to make new ones why don’t you just keep the ones you got now?                                                                                                   Jane

Dear God, who draws the lines around the countries?                                   Nan

Dear God, do animals use you or is there somebody else for them?              Nancy

                                                                                (From Children’s letters to God compiled by Stuart Hample and Eric Marshall)

 

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                              HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:JULY 24th                                             

Jean Graham is still in hospital  - we continue to hold Jean and Terry in love and prayers

 Audrey Beasley has had an infection and is to go into respite for a while to give her extra care.

We hold Audrey and Peter also in our love and prayers

 

GOOD NEWS!

James Mitchell, grandson of Audrey and Peter, 

is to marry Harriet on Thursday July 29^th after several postponements. 

We wish James and Harriet a blessed and happy future together.

 SAD NEWS

                                                                                                                                    

             Vera Parkes passed away at the age of 93 years,  on 13th July
following her courageous fight with numerous health difficulties since Christmas.
This lovely, gentle lady will be sadly missed at Open Door.

We hold Roger and all the family in our love and prayers at this time.

Vera’s funeral will be at Hasbury on Monday August 9^th at 11.00a.m.

(if you will be attending the funeral service,
please let Dave Raxster have your name and contact details for track and trace purposes)

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From Joy Jones -

                                                                       

SUSANNA WESLEY

an extraordinary hero of prayer and learning and mother of John and Charles

died on July 23rd  1742 (279 years ago this week)

 

Whenever Susanna Wesley wanted to pray, she would pull her apron over her head to assert a measure of privacy from her children. She endured a difficult marriage to a penniless preacher who was imprisoned twice. Their home was burned down twice. And tragically nine of their nineteen children died in infancy. Somehow Susanna raised their remaining ten children almost single-handedly, regarding motherhood as a vocation from God.

With nowhere at home to pray privately, Susanna’s children quickly learned that when her apron was over her head, their mother was not to be disturbed. In this unusual posture, she would pour her heart out to God, no doubt mourning her lost babies, interceding for her infuriating husband, and praying for each of her children by name.

Susanna took education seriously, home-schooling her children for six hours a day, teaching her seven daughters the same as her three sons. She also gave an extra hour of exclusive time to each child each week. “I look upon every soul under my charge,” she explained, “as a talent committed to me under a trust.”

Susanna was a formidable leader long before her sons John and Charles rose to fame. When her husband, the Rector of Epworth parish church, was imprisoned for financial mismanagement and his replacement in the pulpit failed miserably to preach the gospel, Susanna took matters into her own hands. 

She launched a Sunday school in the kitchen for her children, which began to attract so many of their neighbours that it had to be reconvened in the barn. Before long, 200 people were gathering every Sunday to worship, pray and listen to Susanna reading sermons. Meanwhile, the church building nearby languished almost empty.

Susanna was a world-class leader, educator and prayer warrior, but her mission field was her own tribe. She applied herself to this task tirelessly, praying faithfully for those ten children, and teaching them diligently. She was a housewife with a hard life from a small town in rural England, but she became the mother of some eighty million Methodists in more than 130 nations today.

                                                                                                              Extract from Lectio 365 Daily devotional

We Thank God today for her work and witness

and wonder what she would make of the latest decision of the Methodist Conference ?

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:JULY 18th

 

Jean Graham is unwell and is in hospital at present. 

We hold Jean and Terry in our love and prayers.

Margaret Sweeting is still in hospital and not able to care for herself yet.

We hold Margaret in our love and prayers.

 

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RECYCLING  UPDATES  from Eileen Adams

 

 

BOTTLE TOPS

We just phoned to arrange a collection of bottle tops (there are several bags in the church car port, our garage is full and the shed has a few bags too) to be told that they can no longer accept them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The company who have been buying them have said they can’t accept less than a container full!  “Go Green” doesn’t have room for a skip and neither do we! So, reluctantly we’ll have to stop the collections and ask people to just put them in their re-cycling. “Go Green” will miss this income but they can still accept old spectacles and ink cartridges, so we’ll happily pass them on. They also need bicycles but if you have any you can pass on could you please contact them directly on: 01562 861154. As we’re reluctant to take all of the tops we currently have to the tip could we ask if anyone (EVERYONE!) could take a bag home and put it in their re-cycling box. PLEASE

 

MORE RECYCLING NEWS…I just had a postcard pick up from Mission Aviation Fellowship  and , should you have any more I now have an address where we can send them direct

 

AND…. if you collect used stamps for The Leprosy Mission it would help if you could occasionally put them in an envelope and send them to: TLM Stamp Bureau, Goldhay Way, Orton Goldhay, Peterborough PE2 5GZ

 

 

CHURCH GARDEN

 

While Roger Adams is happy to continue to cut the grass at church he’s in need of some support.
Some of the edges need cutting or strimming and the kerbs need to be brushed to get rid of all the weeds.
 So, if you can spare an hour or two to help keep the front of the church looking neat and tidy please do what you can.

Please contact Roger  if you can offer to help

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The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures,

He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.      (Psalm 23)

 

 

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News from Jenny and John in Australia. 
Stable One Project

We have been so encouraged recently by the things people say. They remind us that our work has a far wider impact than we sometimes realise. It is easy to forget that it isn't just individuals who are impacted by homelessness. Those who love them may also feel helpless, hopeless, exhausted, inadquate, frustrated and a whole range of other things. Stable One can make a difference in their lives too. In the last month, we've had multiple messages of gratitude via email, phone or in person from family members of people staying at The Lodge.

 Each year, as winter approaches, we also often receive messages from people who have stayed with us at a winter shelter. The change in temperature is a reminder of nights they stayed in a warm church building - warm because of the heating, but also because of the people inside who cared for them. Two weeks ago a caller said "I really miss being with all of you." Yesterday, a guy rang from Queensland where he now lives. He's working full time and has "given up the grog". He rang to let us know how he was doing and told us he loved us before he hung up. Another called today to say hi and see how we were going at The Lodge. 

For some of our volunteers, Stable One is a place to belong, to be loved, to connect, to grow and to give. Someone recently told us "It feels like my family here". Another said "This is 'church' isn't it?" We value our volunteers so highly and honour them for the time they give to serving others.
These encouragements keep us going on the hard days.

In our Friday night 'God Spot', we have been focussing on the 'one another' sayings in the Bible. Last week was 'encouraging one another'. (Encouragement - to inspire with courage, spirit, or hope, to spur on.) We all need encouragement. Why not drop a line to someone you've been impacted by today to spur them on? 

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds

Hebrews 10:24

FOOTNOTE: John and Jenny and family had a polar hurricane to contend with recently which together with very cold temperatures, high winds etc took the power out as well for a number of days. We send our love and prayers for a more peaceful time.

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Are you worried about the future of our church? 

Be bold, be strong for the Lord our God is with you

He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus

                                                                                                                                  Philippians 1:6

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Roy Parton will be “At Home” on Wednesday 23^rd June from 2.00 – 4.30 pm

to celebrate his 78^th Birthday.                                          

You are most welcome to pop in any say Hello

 

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 God really DOES save our gracious Queen

(from Eileen Adams) 

 

Last Saturday the Queen’s Official 95^th birthday was celebrated at Windsor Castle with the traditional;
 “Trooping of the Colour.” Three times she stood as the band played “God save the Queen.”

Today I was preparing a devotional for the Hospice and I took out a book we distributed five years ago for her 90^th birthday, called “The Servant Queen – and the King she serves.” If you’ve still got your copy it’s well worth a read. Throughout its pages – covering topics like ceremony, service, strength in adversity (even James Bond!) – there’s a strong thread: God DOES save the Queen.

 Every Christmas she broadcasts to the nation. JESUS always features in that address.
In 2014 she said, “for me the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, is an inspiration and an anchor in my life, a role model of reconciliation and forgiveness, He stretched out His hands in love, acceptance and healing. Christ’s example has taught me to seek to respect and value all people of whatever faith or none.”
She often focuses on reconciliation and forgiveness, calling them the “greatest gifts.”

 And this V.I.P., this monarch, this most famous of all women in the 21^st century, goes to church as often as she is able. In the book there’s a passage about that:

“You can hear the car crunch to a halt from inside the old building. The driver is reputedly rather firm on the brakes. A minute or so later a 5’4” woman comes through the small side door and sits down in a pew. It is the Queen coming unannounced to join the local congregation of Sandringham Church for the Sunday Service as she often does when she is in residence at Sandringham. There’s no chauffeur, no ceremony, no fuss. She often doesn’t sit in the special seat that only she can occupy, but sits in one of the pews. She comes in the side door because she doesn’t want to draw attention to herself. But she DOES want to go to church. Not because she is expected to, not because she needs to be seen, because she wants to be there…. She doesn’t have to go to church every week, but she does."

 And, it goes on,  "on the day of Princess Diana’s death she didn’t have to take her two grieving grandsons to church at Balmoral, but she did. In fact, some criticised her for it.

 Still, in times of pressure, tragic loss, or death, if you are a believer in a living God, it is precisely to Him and to fellow believers, that you turn for strength and comfort, perspective and prayer.”

 

We know that, Hasbury, don’t we? See you in church ….SOON!

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                                         From the Methodist prayer manual                                                                       

In the darkness of the night, may we catch a glimpse of the distant light.

In the cacophony and clamour of life, may we hear the whisper of God’s voice.

In the anguish of death and disaster, may we feel the breath of hope.

In the convolutions and disagreements that weigh upon us, may the Word of God lighten our load.

In the loneliness and aloneness of a busy world, may we know the presence of our creator God.

For the earth is the Lord’s and so are we.

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FUTURE PLANS FOR OUR CHURCH

Can YOU offer to help fill the service gaps in -

OPEN DOOR – refreshments, transport, planning                           John Smith 

                                                                                                           Maggie & Jon Jones 

TODDLERS                                                                                       Maureen Stanley 

CRAFT GROUP                                                                                 Eileen Adams   or    Margaret Parton  

TEA & COFFEE ROTA and/ or SETTING OUT CHURCH for Sunday mornings,  MUSIC – if you’d like to be on the rota for playing for worship or TECH DUTY if you’d like to be on the rota contact Bill Austin or Dave Raxster

TREASURER Could you consider being church treasurer?                Alan Cummings 

STEWARDS Would you consider being a church steward?                Maureen Stanley 

PASTORAL CARE If you could keep in touch with a group of people

                                                                                                              Maggie and Jon Jones

MESSY CHURCH                                                                                Eileen Adams    

MEMBERSHIP

Some (not all) of these positions will require you to be a member of the Methodist Church.

If you’re not a member and would like to take membership or if you just want more information, contact Rev. Peter Brown 

If you are happy to continue in the service you already offer, please let us know.

                                          *****************************************************************************

 

From the Methodist Prayer Handbook

 O Lord of majestic mountain and roaring sea,

O Lord of astonishing beauty and outlandish loveliness,

O Lord of the miniscule, the overlooked and the never seen,

O Lord of the extraordinary and the everyday,

Open our eyes to see Your presence,

our ears to hear the whisper of Your voice,

and, realising You in every place and every moment of our existence,

may we live with justice, peace, care and hope.   Amen

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

 

17^th CENTURY NUN’S PRAYER

 

Lord, Thou knowest better than I know myself that I am growing older
and will someday be old.

Keep me from the fatal habit of thinking I must say something
on every subject and on every occasion.

Release me from craving to straighten out everybody’s affairs.

Make me thoughtful but not moody: helpful but not bossy.

With my vast store of wisdom, it seems a pity not to use it all,
but Thou knowest Lord that I want a few friends at the end.

 

Keep my mind free from the recital of endless details; 
give me wings to get to the point. 

Seal my lips on my aches and pains. 
They are increasing, and love of rehearsing them is becoming sweeter as the years go by. 
I dare not ask for grace enough to enjoy the tales of others pains,
but help me to endure them with patience.

 

I dare not ask for improved memory,
but for a growing humility and a lessing cocksureness
when my memory seems to clash with the memories of others. 
Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally I may be mistaken.

 

Keep me reasonably sweet; 
I do not want to be a Saint – some of them are so hard to live with-
but a sour old person is one of the crowning works of the devil. 

 

Give me the ability to see good things in unexpected places,
and talents in unexpected people. 
And, give me, O Lord, the grace to tell them so.

                                                                                                          AMEN

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:JUNE 5TH

Roy Parton is able to sit out of bed for a time now and is able and happy to have visitors

Please continue to hold in prayer all of our church family who are finding life difficult.

 

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CHURCH WEB SITE https://www.hasburymethodist.org.uk

 

Check the church "What God has taught me during the pandemic".

You will find testimonies which have been given in zoom worship. 

Three new testimonies have been added.

 

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from Maureen Jeavons who prepares our weekly notices...

WHEN WE GET BACK TO NORMAL ……………       (and no, we don’t have a date yet)

How we all long for that time….

Remember when we looked forward to going to church worship… to Open Door…… to Craft Group……

to Toddlers………..to Messy Church to singing and being together………...?

 

Won’t it be great to get back to all that?

Yes  BUT…..

the last 12 months have changed a lot of things.

We’ve all got a year older and some of us are no longer able to do the things we did

We’ve lost much loved members of our church family.

 

SO things have changed in many ways

We have a chance to look at how we do things – do we want to change anything??

 

AND  whatever we do can only happen if we have people to  make it happen

 

At some point we’ll need to have a big meeting to discuss our present and our future – until then……...

PLEASE think and pray about your discipleship and your service.

Can YOU offer to help fill the service gaps in -

OPEN DOOR – refreshments, transport, planning                  contact John Smith,  Maggie & Jon Jones 

TODDLERS –                                                                          contact Maureen Stanley 

CRAFT GROUP –                                                                   contact Eileen Adams   or  Margaret Parton  

TEA & COFFEE ROTA and/ or SETTING OUT CHURCH for Sunday mornings

                                                                                                contact Bill Austin  or Dave Raxster 

MUSIC – if you’d like to be on the rota for playing for morning worship  contact Bill Austin or Dave Raxster

TECH DUTY if you’d like to be on the rota for this                 contact Bill Austin or Dave Raxster

TREASURER Could you consider being church treasurer?  contact Alan Cummings 

STEWARDS Would you consider being a church steward?  contact Maureen Stanley 

PASTORAL CARE If you could keep in touch with a group of people  contact Maggie and Jon Jones 

MESSY CHURCH                                                                 contact Eileen Adams 

MEMBERSHIP

Some (not all) of these positions will require you to be a member of the Methodist Church.

If you’re not a member and would like to take membership or if you just want more information,
contact Rev. Peter Brown 

What is Membership?

Basically, it  is making a commitment to your Christian discipleship.

                                                      We serve Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, 
                                                      He who lived a life of service and suffering for our sakes
                                                      He  who gave His life for us, died and was resurrected for us.

                                     Now, as His church,  we are His body in the world – His hands and feet, His voice.
                                                    We gladly do what we are able to serve Him.

 

Maybe you are hesitant about making a commitment to any of the service areas above – maybe you don’t know if you can do it.

Can I (Maureen) just say that in my Christian life I’ve had a go at various things that I didn’t know if I could do.     I made lots of mistakes, but Hasbury helped me to learn, forgave my mistakes, loved me through them and helped me to get it right. And just when I thought I couldn’t learn anything else, I found I could zoom !!!!!

I’m sure there are other things I haven’t thought of where there is a need and someone will tell me !!                     If you’d like to do something I haven’t listed talk to Maureen Stanley or any of the stewards – Jan Lear  Dave Raxster, Dilys Ward, Maggie Jones

If you are happy to continue in the service you offer, please let us know as that will help with rotas etc. 

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From Paul writing to the Philippians 4: 6-7

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you

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 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:MAY 29th

Marcus Raxster is out of hospital and is recovering at home.

Ken Tivey has had a nasty fall

 

We continue to hold  Marcus, Ken, Tom and all of our church family who are having a difficult time just now, in our love and our prayers.

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A Prayer for Trinity Sunday

May the Great One who is both mother and father bless you

May the Suffering Servant who is both brother and sister bless you

May the Great Spirit who is neither male nor female bless you

The blessing of the Trinity, the Great Mystery, be yours now and always

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Eileen Scanlon sends this reading from her Daily Readings:

 

A GOOD LIFE

 

A young boy sat on the stairs putting pebbles in his mouth.  His mother took the rocks out, but he resisted going to the dining room where dessert awaited.  Finally, when he saw a chocolate cake on the table, he stopped screaming and his eyes widened with joy. I wonder if I might be that boy…..

As we grow older, we are increasingly reluctant for our lives on earth to end.  We rejoice in each day God gives us, and we want to stay here as long as we can.

 Easter assures us that eternal life awaits us in heaven.  Old Testament prophets and the book of Revelation describe it glowingly, but we are not ready yet.  We want to continue enjoying each other, our loved ones and the joys and beauties of earth.  But the boy in the meditation may be a good reminder for us.  Maybe all the joys and beauties of earth will pale in comparison to what awaits us in heaven

 The gifts God offers us do  not end with this life.

Read Revelation 21: 1-5

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DUDLEY AS ONE

You may have noticed the lovely banner outside our church

provided by Dudley Council. We are encouraged to look at ways of keeping a

community spirit going in our streets.

It’s a great opportunity to reach out to our church neighbours. 

Jesus asks us to love our neighbour as we love ourselves.
Put on your thinking caps and  let us know of any ideas you may have to bring people together. 
One suggestion is that we hold a memorial service for those who have died  during the pandemic year. Many families have been distressed that they couldn’t gather at funeral services for their loved ones,
so maybe this is  one way we could show our care for them
by giving them the opportunity for a special time to remember.

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 Last Sunday we celebrated Pentecost.  Maureen Stanley sends us her Pentecost poem

Many days after you rose to Heaven
Your friends were gathered, again
Lost, confused, dejected
Wondering how to preach to men ?
When, suddenly you came through wind
You came in flames of light
Speaking once again from Heaven
To guide them in their plight
They gazed about , received your word
And spoke in tongues -
So quite absurd
Your purpose was once more fulfilled
Upon our Earth - for us to yield
You gave them power to do thy will
You showed them how you love them still
Your Holy Spirit set the seed
For men to follow at a speed
To spread your word to all they met
Catching souls within their net
The word was out , and many heard
And told your story - every word
So Christianity then grew fast
For all to know your love at last
Thy will was done , and still today
We spread your word from day to day., 

 

 

 

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:MAY 22nd

 

Margaret Vercoe had her shoulder operation on Monday and is now recovering at home.

Tom Hadley had his long delayed pancreatic operation on Monday. Following the very lengthy operation Tom was in a lot of pain and had anaphylactic shock reaction to medication.  He is now improving thankfully and is hoping to be out of hospital soon.

Jon Jones has had a varicose vein operation . 

Marcus Raxster developed septicemia in one of his feet and has had to have the big toe and part of his foot removed.

Roy Parton has been able to sit out of bed in a special chair for a while

 Idris Williams has an infection needing antibiotics. He is quite keen to get out of bed.

 Ken Tivey is still having trouble with his leg wound, which is taking a long time to heal and Barbara is having a lot of pain with her hip

 

We  hold all of you in our love and our prayers.
May you know the strength of God’s love holding you and know His healing touch and His peace in your hearts.

                                                                         Some words from Psalm 34                                                                                                                           

Taste and see that the Lord is good;  blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.

Fear the Lord, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing. 

The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack for no good thing.

Prayer from "Thy Kingdom Come"  -

Loving God, our hearts are restless till they find their rest in you.
Hold me, for the storms are raging and the waves crash over.
Be my rest and my security.
And even though human touch and human love is so beautiful and so longed for,
help me to know today that it comes from you and,
like everything that is good and beautiful, will return to you in the silence of your eternal and never changing love.
Be with me as I hold myself and hold others in your embrace.
  Loving God, our hearts are restless till they find their rest in you.
Hold me, for the storms are raging and the waves crash over.
Be my rest and my security.
And even though human touch and human love is so beautiful and so longed for,
help me to know today that it comes from you and,
like everything that is good and beautiful, will return to you in the silence of your eternal and never changing love.
Be with me as I hold myself and hold others in your embrace.

 

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 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:MAY 15th

 

Margaret Vercoe is to have a shoulder operation next week.

We pray all goes well for you Margaret.  We hold you in our love and prayers

 

We continue to hold in our prayers with love, Roy and Margaret Parton and Idris Williams and his family.

 

Jean Graham is recovering from her knee operation

  

 

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GOD IN THE MIDST OF A PANDEMIC!

Over the time that we’ve been watching Zoom worship each Sunday, different people have talked about

“What I’ve learned about God during the pandemic.”

If you’ve missed any of these, the plan is to put them on our website, starting this week with Mo Stanley.

If you haven’t been able to take part and would like to contribute, please let Eileen know,

by telephone, email or by post

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CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 10TH – 16TH MAY

 Tea is the most consumed drink in the world besides water - and demand is increasing. But climate change threatens its future through temperature rise, drought, floods, hail stones and pest increase.

This Christian Aid Week (10-16 May), we’re highlighting the threat of climate change on tea producers in Kenya. Pray with us to see God's creation healed and restored.

Tea-time prayer

God of all life,

waiting for the water to boil,

we confess and lament the rise of temperature

that has led to a climate crisis across this beautiful planet.

We wait, impatient for change.

                                        Pouring out hot water on loose-leaf or tea bag,                                      

into teapot or favourite mug,

we pour out our intercessions

for a change of heart by politicians

to put planet and people first.

Stirring teabag, leaves or sugar

we ask that you would stir in us a passion to take action,

to do all we can at this ciritical hour

to take care of our common home

and amplify the call for climate justice.

Drinking that first satisfying sip

we give thanks for the day when “they will hunger no more, and thirst no more” *

Infuse us with a strongly brewed vision of your creation healed and restored.            Amen

*Revelation 7:16

For more information see  https://www.christianaid.org.uk/

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 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:MAY 8th

Roy Parton is very poorly. He is out of hospital and is now receiving further palliative care at home

Roy we hold you and Margaret in our love and prayers

Idris Williams has also returned home to receive care. Idris we hold you, Peter and Carol in our love

and prayers

Jean Graham is to have a knee operation on May 10^th

The Families of Joseph and Nutan Suray in India need our prayers at this very difficult time

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RE-CYCLING

The Emily Jordan Foundation (recipients of our bottle tops, spectacles and ink cartridges) would welcome any donations of bikes (or bike parts). If you want to know more about their amazing organisation check their website:www.theemilyjordanfoundation.org.uk

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Over the time that we’ve been watching Zoom worship each Sunday, different people have talked about

“What I’ve learned about God during the pandemic.”

If you’ve missed any of these, the plan is to put them on our website, starting this week with Mo Stanley.

If you haven’t been able to take part and would like to contribute, please let Eileen know,

by telephone, email or by post

 

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 News from India

(from Rev Joseph Suray and his wife Nutan)

 

Dear Friends, Greetings to you all. I hope you are keeping well and looking after yourselves. Thank you for enquiring about CRHD and our families in India. I am sure you are aware of the impact of the second wave of Corona virus on the Indian people, which worsens day by day. The current variant is spreading more rapidly than the original. This has crushed the vulnerable families, who are paying a price in attempt for survival, more than ever before.

 The hospitals all over the country have faced an unprecedented challenge due to the shortage of oxygen, beds and medication. There is panic, chaos, confusion, anger and also fear among people. People are not sure once they visit a hospital whether they will come out alive or dead.

 The infection rate in Raichur is rising at an alarming rate. At the moment there is a 15 day lockdown period,but it is very difficult to educate people about social distancing! The school is shut due to the lockdown. I have been cautioning the school staff and the Indian trustees that they need to be careful and protect themselves and their families. So far, all children and staff are safe in the school. Sadly though,  elsewhere there have been several cases of infection  and more than 200 have died in our town. Many of our friends and families are affected due to Covid and have lost their livelihood. There is no prospect of job opportunities for our own young people,and therefore they live hand to mouth.

Just like last time, we are planning to provide basic food grains  and some raw materials for their shelter.

We appreciate your ongoing prayerful support for them in this crisis.

 Sadly, Nutan’s sister Nomita, her husband and her eldest daughter are Covid positive. Nomita’s husband Rashan is in the ICU as his blood oxygen was very low. Thankfully, Nomita has not shown any of the symptoms yet, but the eldest daughter Selah has a high temperature, headache and body ache, which they are treating at home. Rashan lost his older brother and sister-in-law within 6 days of each other in the last week. We also heard that Nutan’s uncle has sadly died. We would appreciate your prayers for all our family who are in crises at the moment.

 Have a good day knowing our lives are in God’s hands. We believe that His faithfulness and compassion are new every morning,for us to know that He cares for us. Thank you for your prayers. May I request you all to include the charity and India in your fellowship’s prayers

God bless you.   Joseph and Gill

Reg Charity no:1116524, UK; SOR;129 Karnataka State, India, http://www.crhd.org.uk

Below is a further message from Joseph:-

Joseph further sends his thanks for remembering the dire situation in India, the school and their families in your prayers. The school and Joseph and Nutan’s families are aware that we are praying for them and send their love and prayers for you all.

For those who feel they would like to send financial support to our brothers and sisters in India, here are bank details:

Cross Roads for Human Development

HSBC Bank plc

Sort Code: 40-28-40

Account number 00004723

 

Or you may send a cheque payable to CRHD to Rev. Joseph Suray 2 Wall Close, Birmingham B67 6 PG

A standing order form and gift aid form is available if you wish to make regular payments

 

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This is just to say a heartfelt thank you for your continued support for our Foodbank collections. As life begins to return slowly to something approaching “normal”, it’s easy to think that everyone’s life will be the same as it was before the pandemic. However the sad truth is that some people’s lives have been so badly affected – whether through illness, furlough, job losses, mental health problems – the need for the Foodbank continues to rise.

So we’re sending out the latest list of “most needed” items and hope that you will feel able to continue to help bring some relief to these people in need. Every contribution is very much appreciated. As the advert says, “every little helps”.

SHORTAGES/REGULAR USE: FOOD ITEMS APRIL 2021

1L CARTONS LONG-LIFE FRUIT JUICE                       1L CARTONS LONG-LIFE MILK               

MICROWAVE QUICK COOK RICE PACKETS              TINNED SPAGHETTI

BOTTLES (1L) SQUASH/CORDIIAL                                SMALL BOXES TEABAGS (40's)

JARS OF JAM                                                                      TINNED MEAT, e.g. ham, Fray Bentos pies

QUICK COOK NOODLES

 

SORRY, BUT WE CANNOT ACCEPT ITEMS THAT ARE OUT OF DATE OR CONTAIN ALCOHOL. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP WITH THIS.

SHORTAGES/REGULAR USE: NON-FOOD ITEMS APRIL 2021

SOAP                                     SHAMPOO                SHAVING FOAM                              TISSUES

If you would like to join in the collection and would like copies of this information to give to friends and neighbours please give Eileen a call.      

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 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:MAY 1st

Chloe Jeavons celebrates her 18^th Birthday on May 4^th

Congratulations and Happy Birthday Chloe

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Roy Parton is in hospital with pneumonia

Idris Williams may be coming home from hospital.

Please pray that a care package will be in place, also for Carol who is unwell.

Ewart Lane has been ill with shingles but has recovered and feeling much better.   

We hold Roy, Idris, Carol and Ewart in love and prayers

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WORSHIP AT HASBURY METHODIST CHURCH MAY 2^nd

Worship is a local arrangement and will be led by Maureen Stanley

Worship begins at 10.30 a.m. and you are invited to arrive from 10.15 a.m

………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

RE-CYCLING NEWS!

 

First of all we continue to collect:
spectacles, ink cartridges, used biros, felt pens, stamps and postcards.

THIS WEEK we’ve heard we can again take BOTTLE TOPS! That’s the good news.
The down-side is that we can’t take any of them to church so you will have to let Roger and Eileen have them, either by leaving them under their porch  or putting them in their car boot after Sunday Worship. (Please can you keep the items separate)

(if you want to leave them at Maureen and John Jeavons', we’ll pass them on – if we’re not in, leave them in the porch)

Foodbank collections continue too. .. Wendy, Maisie, Stephen & Dilys, Roger & Eileen continue to accept your gifts.

Donations of toiletries or school stationery can still be given to Jan Lear for the Wheels youngsters.

 

 

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 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:April 24th

Brenda Webb is recovering from  a hip replacement operation.  

Brenda we hold you in love and prayer and wish you a good recovery.

Idris Williams out of hospital and is in Tiled House Care Home, Pensnett for a time.

Dave Hartle has been very poorly with an infection                              

Roy Parton has also been poorly with an infection

We hold Idris, Dave and Roy in our love and prayers

Stan Tonks passed away on March 20^th. He had been in Bartley Green Lodge care home for a while and passed away at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.  Stan was a member of Short Cross and was part of the printing team for many years, also a member of Men's Supper Club. His funeral will be on April 29^th at 12.15 at Rowley Regis Crematorium. Attendance is restricted to comply with Covid regulations. We give thanks for Stan’s faithful service and hold his family in our prayers.

 

Please also hold in your prayers the congregation of Hurst Green Methodist Church.  Sadly Hurst Green is  likely to close at the end of August this year. This will be such a difficult time for our brothers and sisters there and we send them our love and our prayers as they come to terms with the closure of what has been their spiritual home. We pray they will find comfort, love and hope wherever they decide to make their new home church.

 

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HASBURY METHODIST CHURCH IS OPENING FOR WORSHIP ON MAY 2^nd

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From John Smith -

Thank you for all your support during the past year.  The amount given through the Home Collecting Boxes and miscellaneous donations is £996.01

An additional £685 was raised by donations made in lieu of the November Coffee Morning and the offering from the Christmas Morning service which has become custom to pass onto Action for Children

Action for Children are blessed to have so many kind and generous friends supporting them through Hasbury Methodist Church

Please speak with Brenda Webb or John Smith if you would like a collecting box

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Over recent weeks our Circuit’s online (Zoom) Sunday Worship has included a short testimony by someone of how the pandemic has impacted on their lives and/or the work of our churches

Two of those who have spoken were Jan Lear and Maureen Stanley, both separately emphasised the outreach and vital pastoral support that continued, and in some ways has become quite innovative, amongst the church family that we affectionately and simply know as ‘Hasbury’

For some of us, the start of lockdowns in March 2020, was an added inconvenience on what were already difficult journeys, whilst others have had to come to terms with new ways of coping with illness, caring, the loss of loved ones as well as any number of personal crises as the past year progressed

Pastoral calls (and visits when allowed), collective and individual prayer times, fellowship groups and bible study, unexpected expressions of love (sometimes including cake, flowers, gifts, etc) have allowed some of the distress to be shared.  All were and continue to be strengthened through knowing God’s love for them and the ministry, prayer, fellowship of their Christian family and friends at ‘Hasbury’.   Importantly however, it has not just been about caring for the immediate church family, as there has also been outreach and serving in the wider community

So, as we approach a time when we may be able to start and plan the future mission for ‘Hasbury’, including resuming worship and other activities in the building, it is essential that we look forward positively and build on the strong Christian faith and call to service that has been nurtured and grown during the worst days of lockdown and Covid-19

John Smith

                          
                          

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OUR AWESOME GOD

 

One of the readings at the funeral of the Duke of Edinburgh was from Ecclesiasticus.

Ecclesiasticus is one of the books of the Apocrypha. The Apocryphal books were written in the time between the Old and New Testaments and the writings are not quoted in any of the New Testament books. They are not generally recognised as divinely inspired authoritative scripture and not included in most of our Bibles. However readings may be included as lectionary readings during worship. The words in the passage chosen by Prince Philip powerfully  portray our awesome God, and as I guess you probably don’t have them in your printed Bible, here they are.

 

Ecclesiasticus 43. 11–26

Look at the rainbow and praise its Maker;

it shines with a supreme beauty, rounding the sky with its gleaming arc,

a bow bent by the hands of the Most High.

His command speeds the snow storm and sends the swift lightning to execute his sentence.

To that end the storehouses are opened, and the clouds fly out like birds.

By his mighty power the clouds are piled up and the hailstones broken small.

The crash of his thunder makes the earth writhe, and, when he appears, an earthquake shakes the hills.

 At his will the south wind blows, the squall from the north and the hurricane. He scatters the snow-flakes like birds alighting;  they settle like a swarm of locusts.

The eye is dazzled by their beautiful whiteness, and as they fall the mind is entranced.

He spreads frost on the earth like salt, and icicles form like pointed stakes.

A cold blast from the north, and ice grows hard on the water, settling on every pool, as though the water were putting on a breastplate.

He consumes the hills, scorches the wilderness, and withers the grass like fire.

Cloudy weather quickly puts all to rights, and dew brings welcome relief after heat.

By the power of his thought he tamed the deep and planted it with islands.

Those who sail the sea tell stories of its dangers, which astonish all who hear them;

in it are strange and wonderful creatures, all kinds of living things and huge sea-monsters.

 By his own action he achieves his end, and by his word all things are held together

 

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 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:April 17th

 

Jackie Parkes celebrated her 75^th Birthday on April 11^th       

Congratulations and happy birthday Jackie

 

Idris is still in hospital. We hold Idris and Peter and Carol in love and prayer                                                 

 

Ken Tivey has a leg injury which is taking a time to heal, and Barbara has a painful hip

We hold them in our prayers

 

We hold in prayer all those who are  having to wait for hospital treatment / surgery, which has been delayed because of the pandemic and those who are finding life difficult during this time. We pray that we are on the way back to life as we knew it.

We hold in our prayers all those who are bereaved and we pray for The Queen and the Royal Family as they say their farewells to Prince Philip.  We join with them in giving thanks for his remarkable life and service.

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HASBURY METHODIST CHURCH IS OPENING FOR WORSHIP ON MAY 2^nd

The service will be at the usual time of 10.30 a.m.

and the following restrictions will apply to comply with government regulations -

1. Attendance is limited to 30 and you will be seated apart (singly or in family/bubbles)

2. Masks need to be worn

3. Registration will be taken on entering

4. Hand sanitiser to be used and temperature to be taken on entering

5. Sorry but no singing

6. The disabled toilet facility only will be open

7.  There is a one way system in and out.

Please maintain 2 metres social distancing and avoid lingering in close groups to chat. 

Also please wear warm clothing (some windows will be open) and a big smile

 

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  APRIL CHALLENGE FOR STABLE ONE HOMELESS CHARITY in Australia

 

Eileen and Sarah have now both completed their sponsored walk / run (guess who was doing which) for the Stable One Homeless charity which Jenny is involved with.
Your sponsor money can be given to Eileen or Sarah via Terry and Jean. Maureen Jeavons will happily pass on any sponsor money if you want to leave it with her 

 

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 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS:April 10th

 

Rebecca Williams funeral

Dear friends...

Rebecca/Bocca’s funeral will be held on Thursday 15th April. 2pm at Short Cross Methodist Church, Halesowen, followed by committal at Stourbridge Crematorium  at 3.30pm.

Numbers attending the service are restricted by Covid regulations. If you  wish to stand along the route – the cortege  will leave from 12 Furnace Hill about 1.30pm and will go along Shelah Rd, into Fairmile Rd, then along Carol Crescent, and finally along Attwood St. to Short Cross .

The church service is being recorded as so many, sadly cannot attend. It will be available to view from 5.30pm.

If you would like to have the private link, please send us your email addressprior to the 15th April.
(The access to this link will not be time-limited).

Gill says: " As a family we are very slowly coming to terms with immeasurable void that is now part of our daily lives. Frank and I have lost our beautiful daughter, Simon has lost his companion of a sister, and Dylan has lost his partner for life. So many plans and dreams have been cut short.

The overwhelming support from Bocca’s friends  is helping us to cope. Your messages are comforting, and make us realise that she touched so many lives in her 30 years.

The fundraising has literally blown us away. Thank you all so much for your donations to help find a solution to this deadly disease. 

“Bocca’s Legacy” will live on and it helps to know that something good can come from her death and our loss."

Gill Williams

We hold Gill, Frank, Simon and Dylan in our love and prayers as they mourn the loss of Rebecca

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

His Royal Highness Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh

The death was announced on April 9th of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. We give thanks for  his amazing lifetime of dedicated service to the life of this nation. Many of our young people have been involved in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and have treasured memories of working to achieve their awards and of times spent on expeditions with friends. Prince Philip was involved in so many innovative plans and has enriched and changed so many lives. We hold Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and all of the Royal Family in our love and prayers as they mourn his loss. If anyone wants to sahre their DoE memories there's a specail memorial page on the DoE website.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

"Memories" from Pam Turbutt

As I read Hasbury news every week I was reading Hazels  memory page. Thankyou Margaret Bissell for the photo of Hazel the Sunday School teacher with me Pam Weston  (Dunn, Turbutt) and Joan  Harris (Moseley )

We started  Hasbury aged 5   1948.     Looking back, as one does living alone in these Covid time,   it was a Happy time.  Hasbury St Margarets school,  then Halesowen  Grammar School and the Guild.  First romances,    teenage years. I was still involved with Hasbury till 1990s.   Happy days.   Pam

Thanks for the message Pam –still part of the Hasbury family - good to hear from you and we send our love

……………………………………………………….

 

                                                                                                                                           

Thanks to all those who came to decorate our CROSS of HOPE.

It looked beautiful  and lots of people posted pictures on-line of their visit.
Lovely too that people were able to meet one another and have a little catch-up

………………………………………………………

Following an article in this week’s Express and Star there’s been a marked upsurge in donations to our collection. So much so that I had to call for a collection!

If anyone would like to join in with those of us who’ve been collecting during lockdown I have several posters and can provide flyers for your neighbours.

If not, please keep your donations coming. The need is increasing by the day.

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EASTER SUNDAY

Hallelujah, he is Risen !
He’s triumphant once again
He lives on to dwell amongst us
A true leader of ALL men

He has conquered death and evil
And walks with us every day
Let all Nations pay him homage ,
Bowing down to him to pray

May all mankind hear the story
Of his life and sacrifice
May the whole world now accept him
As their Saviour - Jesus Christ.

He has risen up triumphant
He lives on eternally
He’s our friend and blessed Savour
And he died for you and me !!
                                                           

                                                                                    Mo Stanley  

                                                         

 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: April 3r

Will Plant celebrated his18th birthday on March 29^th                            .
Congratulations and Happy Birthday Will

……………………………………………………….

 

Veronica is still in Lagos. She is well and has had her vaccination. We hold her in our prayers

We hold in our prayers Idris who is very unwell,  and Peter and Carol as they care for him.   

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BEREAVEMENTS

Clive Busby’s funeral: the DVD of Clive’s funeral is ready if anyone would like to see it.
Please note that it is in  MP4 format and may not be compatible with older DVD players or computers.
Please contact Alison  Ponter or Maureen Jeavonsif you would like to see it and we can get one to  you.

…………………………………………………………….

 Madge, Allison, Stephen and family would like to thank everybody who contributed to the donations in memory of David which totalled  £1,245 and is to be shared by Action Heart and Cancer Research UK.

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WHEELS at Easter

Dear friends

Thank you to you all for the kind donations for Easter eggs and hot cross buns for the girls and boys at Wheels

It is very much appreciated by everyone

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all Happy Easter  from everyone at Wheels

God Bless you all for your continuing support ,care ,and prayers that means so much to the children and staff at Wheels                         
Every Blessing. Jan Lear

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 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: March 27th

Lydia Parkes celebrated her 18^th Birthday on March 24^th .                         

Congratulations and Happy Birthday Lydia.

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Clive Busby -

We would like to say thank you to all those who kindly contributed to the donations in memory of Clive which is currently £1,140 and will be shared between Blood Cancer UK and Action Heart.

Blood Cancer UK has supported research into blood cancers, such as leukaemia, at the University of Birmingham and QEH. Some of you will remember Barbara and Norman Bunce - their son Chris is Head of a Lab there and we have been in touch with him.

Thank you all for your generosity and kindness and for your continued prayers and support.

Alison, Joan & Family

Clive's eulogy is now on the Website under Memory Page

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Audrey Smith passed away on March 14^th. Some of you will remember Audrey and Sam from days of the Guild, and Audrey joined the Craft Group for a while as long as her mobility allowed. She has been in a care home for some time. Her funeral will be on April 9^th at Stourbridge Crematorium. I will hopefully be able to let you have the link to the service on next weeks newsletter together with information on donations.  We hold Adrian and family in our prayers.

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HOLY WEEK and EASTER

As we approach this Holy Week

Let us not forget

The trauma that faced our Lord, who knew his fate - and yet -

He faced the trials

That came his way

Leading to that awful day

‘Who do you say I am ?’he said

To those who ridiculed with dread

He suffered cruelty and abuse

Such treatment offers no excuse

The soldiers mocked with cruel crown

And whipped him fiercely to the ground

And yet , and yet , he stood the pain

For our future lives to gain

He suffered badly; paid the price

To be the final sacrifice

So, as we enter Holy Week

Let us pray to him and seek

The love our Father gave, and more -

Let’s worship him who we adore

                                                                       

Mo Stanley



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HASBURY EASTER CROSS

 

Our Easter Cross will be

outside the church at Easter.

Please come and add your own

flowers to this symbol of HOPE

  

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Tuesday 23rd March has been designated “National day of reflection.” 

 There will be a minute’s silence at midday to remember those losses.

If you have been bereavedyou might like to use this prayer

A PRAYER FOR THE ONE WHO IS LEFT

 

Lord, I seem to have all the things which don’t matter and lost all the things which do.

I’m alone and sometimes I feel nothing can make up for that.

Lord, help me to see the meaning of my faith and life;

To realise that I have hope as well as memory;

That the unseen cloud of witnesses is around me;

That you meant it when you said you would always be with me;

That as long as I’m here there is something I’m meant to do;

And in doing it, help me to find the comfort and courage I need to go on.

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: March 21st

Roy Parton has been in  hospital this week.
We hold Roy and Margaret in our love and prayers and hope you soon feel much better Roy.

Idris is also unwell, and has had several falls. We hold you in love and prayer Idris

In our love and prayers we also hold Gill and Frank Williams, Simon and Dylan as they mourn the loss of  Rebecca. We pray you will feel God’s strength and comfort in your sorrow.

Jade Loxton is out of hospital and feeling much better

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MOTHERS DAY

                                                                       

I would like to thank those involved with resourcing the Daffodils and putting them into bunches for Mother’s Day. Ali Price and family, Mo, Dilys, Maggie who delivered the daffodils to you with our love. It was so good seeing you all even though it was a doorstep call we hope you had an enjoyable time we have many blessings to be grateful for - our Families friends and our Church family. We all hope that we shall be together in worship soon
May the love of God be with you always                          Take care Be safe
Jan Lear

On behalf of all of us who had such a lovely daffodil gift – a big THANK YOU. You brought us a smile

Maureen x

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TESTING THE WATER…for the last 10 years or so we’ve sent Easter Eggs and Hot Cross Buns to the “Wheels” students and would like to do so again this year.  If you’d like us to go ahead and feel you could make a monetary gift to enable us to purchase a little bit of Easter Hope for them could you, please let Eileen know as soon as possible. Every blessing to you all.

Eileen and the H.O.P.E team

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Mo Stanley has completed a sponsored walk, walking 121,000 steps in 10 days for Centre Point (Homeless charity for young people aged between 16 – 20)

She has raised £655 so far.  If anyone would like to sponsor her you can contact her on 07903616171 or visit her page on “Just Giving campaign” Move in March                                        Thank You

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
“National day of reflection.”

From Mary Stevens Hospice

Tuesday 23rd March has been designated “National day of reflection.” Since lockdown began last year over 3 MILLION people have been bereaved and, whatever the cause, every death has been devastating for those left behind. The day of reflection is a special time for us all to come together, a time to reflect on those who lost their lives and for us to think of all the effects the last year has had on each and every one of us.. It will be a time to find ways to support each other and a chance to feel hopeful about the future. There will be a minute’s silence at midday to remember those losses.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Mo Stanley has completed a sponsored walk, walking 121,000 steps in 10 days for Centre Point (Homeless charity for young people aged between 16 – 20).
Contact her via our "contact us " page  or visit her page on “Just Giving campaign” Move in March                                        Thank You

 

A HOMELESS PLEA

Come hither, help me in my plight                            To turn disgust into “pity”

To find some comfort in this night                          To turn all judgements of the past

For right now I can’t be sure                                  To finally realise at last

How much more I can endure -                                That I hurt behind this mask

Of this cold and weary life                                     And need some help to solve the task

That brings me misery and strife.                           Of getting off the streets to live

Not my choice, I tell you now                                  I’m really asking you to give

But I’ll survive this life somehow                            Not just money – clothes or food

With a little help from those                                 But time to change your attitude

Who see the man behind these clothes                   Towards a fortune bad as mine

Who see the inner soul of me                                 Please spare a moment of your time

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

 

ACTION FOR CHILDREN

 

Around this time in previous years Sylvia and Hazel would have been offering to empty Action for Children ‘Home Collecting’ boxes; this year it’s John and Brenda who will be happy to receive (or collect) the boxes or any donations

Either drop your box off or contact either of us  John     Brenda 

Please use the "contact us" page if you need to know their contact details)

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                     HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: March 13th

We have filmed the service and at some stage once it has been edited if anyone would like to view it we can put it on a DVD for you.

The end of the Eulogy said

As mentioned, Clive was a thinker, and always prepared. Now God has prepared a place for him and as it says in John 14 '"There are many rooms in my Father's house and I'm going to prepare a place for you'

A much loved Husband, Father and Grandpops, he will be truly missed, but we are peace with the knowledge that he is now in his room that God has prepared for him.

Our love and thanks to you all.     Alison, Joan and Family

                          ************************************************************************************

Jade Loxton (Ben Hanna's fiancee)has been very unwell and has spent a few days in hospital having tests.

She is back home now on medication and feeling more comfortable. We wish you a good recovery Jade.

We hold all our church family who are facing difficult times in our love and our prayers.

                        ************************************************************************************

ACTION FOR CHILDREN

Around this time in previous years Sylvia and Hazel would have been offering to empty Action for Children ‘Home Collecting’ boxes; this year it’s John and Brenda who will be happy to receive (or collect) the boxes
or any donations

Either drop your box off or contact either of us

John Smith or    Brenda Webb

      

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                                                  HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: March 6th

THE FUNERAL OF CLIVE BUSBY will be held on Wednesday March 10th at 11.30 a.m.

at Hasbury Methodist Church, followed by burial at Quinton Cemetery at 1.00 p.m. 

We hold Joan, Alison and all the family in our love and prayers at this time.

 

Jenny Willetts has fallen and broken her shoulder. We pray for a good recovery for Jenny

 

We also hold Roy Parton and Barbara Tivey in our love and prayers. Both are unwell 

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CHRISTIAN AID

"'When I learn about countries where not one person has been vaccinated how can I help but give thanks for my own privileges and for the courage and endurance of others. I ask that they may be kept safe and know that they are not alone."(messsage from a Christian Aid supporter)

Many supporters have wanted to donate in thanksgiving  for their coronavirus vaccine and if you would like to join them to help protect the most vulnerable people  please consider donating to Christian Aid  So many of the communities they serve are feeling the devastating effects of the pandemic and the vaccine is still out of reach for them. Many families lack the essentials like soap and clean water for handwashing.

 

Your donation will directly help vulnerable families protect themselves against coronavirus.

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: February 27th

THE FUNERAL OF CLIVE BUSBY will be held on Wednesday March 10^th at 11.30 a.m.

at Hasbury Methodist Church, followed by burial at Quinton Cemetery at 1.00 p.m.

Attendance is limited in numbers by invitation only, due to current covid regulations

Joan, Alison and family send their grateful thanks for cards, flowers expressions of support and tributes to Clive

We hold Joan, Alison and all the family in love and prayer

Margaret Bissell sends a big thank you for cards and good wishes on her birthday. 

She had a lovely day in spite of restrictions with many doorstep visitors, phone calls and texts.

Mark Jones celebrates his 50^th birthday on March 3^rd   Happy Birthday Mark

 

Veronica sends a prayer for us from Nigeria - that God will be with you, God will strengthen you, God will bless you, God will neither leave you nor forsake you. God will not fail you, God will protect you, God will provide for you, God will empower you, God will answer you whenever you call Him. Above all, His loving care will always incubate your life     Amen

Black Country Foodbank send grateful thanks for your continuing support.

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CURRENT SHORTAGES are :-  
Small boxes of teabags

Long life milk (1L cartons)               Tinned potatoes                    Long life fruit juice (1L cartons)

Microwave rice packets                   Packets instant mash          Tinned rice pudding or custard           

Tinned meat e.g. corned beef          Tinned vegetarian ready meals eg veg stew    
Small jars of coffee

Food bank cannot accept out of date items or items containing alcohol

Non-food shortages

Shampoo                   Toilet rolls                              Washing up liquid

You can drop off your donations with

Dilys & Stephen, Maisie Newman, Wendy Tether or Roger & Eileen

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: February 20th

We hold Joan Busby, Alison and all of Clive’s family in love and prayer in the coming days

Pauline Apperley has tested positive for Covid and has to isolate in her room. She’s not showing any symptoms and we pray she will not be badly affected.

Anne Jordan has had a heart attack. She has had a stent fitted and is recovering well at home.

 

We hold all of these people and their families in our love and our prayers

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Margaret Bissell celebrates her 85^th birthday on February 23^rd.   

                                                              Happy Birthday Margaret                                                                           

 

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: February 13th

Clive Busby passed peacefully away in hospital on Tuesday February 10^th with Joan and Alison at his side.
He will be sadly missed by us all, but we know that he will be joyfully received by his Lord whom he served faithfully all of his life.                  Rest in Peace Clive.

We hold Joan, Alison and all of the family in our love and our prayers.

 

Dave Smith’s funeral. February 25^th. 

We don’t yet have details of the route of the cortege and link to the service, but  will let you know when I have them, also the order of service.

We hold Madge, Allison and Stephen and all of the family in our love and our prayers

 

O God, from whom to turn is to fall, to whom to be turned is to rise, and in whom to stand is to abide for ever,  grant us in all our perplexities your guidance, in all our dangers your protection, and in all our sorrows  your peace;  through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen       (prayer of St. Augustine)

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  VALENTINE 'S DAY

              


‘ And the greatest of all is Love’

Love each other and love fellow man
Love each other as much as you can
Love conquers all - love is so true
Love can give everything - to me and to you
Take time to tell all your loved ones you care
Take time to hug them and take time to share
Give friends a phone call , take time to say
‘I love you dearly ‘ and not just today
Loves bears no burdens
No grudge from the past
Love conquers sin and forever will last
Give flowers , give greetings ,
Give kisses and show
To all those you love ,
Please - just let them know!

 

                                                                                                         Mo Stanley

And now I will show you the most excellent way…

 And now these three remain, faith, hope and love                 

 But the greatest of these is love       (1 Corinthians 13)

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When H.O.P.E. began some 13 years ago now we encouraged people to join in a campaign called ”ARK”  - same letters, same idea just arranged differently. So it’s a day for everyone to do at least ONE

ACT of RANDOM KINDNESS.

It doesn’t have to be a huge gesture, just something to make someone’s day a little brighter. Could be as simple as a phone call, a word of encouragement or a card to say I’m thinking about you. Let’s share our ideas but above all, let’s share some kindness.

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HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: February 6th

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 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: JANUARY 30th

 

Dave Smith sadly passed peacefully away on Wednesday January 28^th in Russells Hall Hospital, with Madge at his side. We know that Dave is now is the hands of his Saviour whom he served faithfully throughout his life. He will be very deeply missed by us all.

We hold Madge, Allison, Stephen and all the family in our love and our prayers.

Rest in Peace,  Dave.

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Clive Busby has had a brace fitted and is hoping to be home soon, when care help is arranged
We continue to hold Clive and Joan, and Roy and Margaret in love and prayer.

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Two poems we've seen this week...

Today, I dared to let myself dream

            That the world will one day open again.              

That the locks will loosen, the walls will fall,

The doors will fly open and reunite us all.

I dared to imagine the warmth of a cuddle,   

A group of my friends all locked in a huddle.

I felt all the heartbeats, drumming with mine,

 I heard all the laughter, I tasted the wine.

   I thought of the feelings I’ve missed for long,

The room full of music, united by song.

The freedom to roam, to plan and to meet

To hold someone’s hand, to meet, to greet.

Just for a moment I dared to dream of,

The flights I would board to the places I love.

    The moment those eyes would meet mine at the gate,

The feeling of joy after so long a wait.

Today, I dared to let myself dream,

That the life we once had would happen again.

That we’d no longer fear the danger of air,

That our lives would not depend on such care.

They say that we mustn’t wish time away,

But it’s hard, my friend, when faced with a day,

So long in blank hours and so wiped of laughter,

It’s tempting to drift away to thereafter.

So yes, I dared to dream just a while,

Of life coming back, it brought me a smile.

                        One day I know, this will be in the past,

                        And hugs will be free, again, at last.

 

 Donna Ashworth

 

POSTSCRIPT from Philippians 4 v 6 -7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving,
present your requests to God. 
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

 

 

 

 

This poem was  on Radio WM morning worship last Sunday.

 

The Creed

The hand that spins the galaxies brought me into being.

The One who holds the stars has made me his own.

I am God’s child. My life is rich, my days are sacred.

I am held by a love that’s wider and higher than the farthest
edges of this expanding universe.

I am a pilgrim in this world, in search of wisdom and wonder.

I will take new adventures.

And follow God into the unknown.

What I achieve is not as important as the person I become.

So I will seek to imitate the Nail-Pierced One.

I will step in the direction of my strengths and talents.

They are Spirit-given tools for my God-given tasks.

I will pay attention to my persistent aspirations.

They could be the whispers of God.

I will serve all I can and walk deeply with a few.

I will aim for great things but leave my legacy to God.

The path is long and the terrain at times hard.

Still:

I will not wish for another’s life.

I will take my place, play my part.

Something important will be missed if I don’t.

For the hand that spins the galaxies wants me here.

Sheridan Voysey  (who led Radio WM worship last Sunday)

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 HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: JANUARY 23rd

Clive Busby is in hospital following a fall at home last weekend. Clive has a fracture to his lower spine, and has obviously been in a lot of pain.  He will be fitted with a brace to support his back during his recovery.

 Roy Parton has been hospitalised with very low blood pressure whilst his heart rate was very high. 

Roy is back at home now with a care package for support as he is bedbound at present.

 

We hold Clive and Joan, and Roy and Margaret in our love and our prayers at this difficult time.

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HASBURY CHURCH FINANCE

Before we update you on the state of our church finances it needs to be said that  we owe Alan an enormous THANK YOU for his work as Treasurer, which is putting a great burden of stress on him at this time. However, we also need to be aware that Alan is not a magician, and cannot make money appear from nowhere.   (I'll create another page for "finance" and hope that you will  read the full report and spreadsheet prayerfully.) so...
FINANCE NEWS FROM ALAN CUMMINGS
Following on from my report at the beginning of December I have updated the figures and extended the forecast to the end of the current financial year (31/8/2021). However, the basic position is that as things stand we will just have enough finances in the general account to pay our dues to August but we will then be seriously troubled to continue at the same level during the church year 2021/22. Over the current year our balances will have reduced from £18,844 to £7,313 – a drop of £11,531.

Further to the letter from Alan concerning church finances:

The income which the church receives from lettings from various groups is £9156.00 per year

Most groups pack up during the summer so it’s around £218.00 a week while they are meeting.(spread over the year it’s £170.00 per week)

As you can see, we are losing this considerable amount each week the church is closed during the coronavirus situation.

Financially it’s disastrous isn’t it?

I know that for those of you who are losing time and money by being unable to continue working, it’s going to be a struggle for you. Could those of you whose income isn’t compromised, maybe consider putting more aside for the church to cover as much as possible of the shortfall.If you can pay donations into the church account the details are the following:

 

If you can help please consider making payments direct to our TSB account. Details are:

                        TSB:    Sort code:  77-85-18      Account No:   38194768

 

If you would like to make a regular standing order, please use the form on the next page for
Transfer authorisation to CFB

 

 

 If you gift aid your donations, please could you let Alan know when you pay an amount into TSB so that he can claim an amount for Church funds.

UP-DATE FROM

With your help Teams4u managed to collect and export 48,756 shoeboxes!

Last week the final lorry was loaded up with 8,811 shoeboxes and headed off to Dover. As we know just before Christmas, Dover port ground to a halt due to Brexit and Covid restrictions which made it impossible to send them in December.

Thankfully I have just heard from our partner Alex, that the lorry has arrived at the Romania Moldova border this evening and tomorrow it will pass through customs before heading off to be unloaded.

 

Ities that needed them the most.

 

In Romania all the shoeboxes have now been distributed in Bihor and Arad counties which are both in the northwest of the country.
Our partners Raul in Oradea and Alexandra in Arad have worked tirelessly to get the boxes to those communities that needed them the most.

Alin receive his shoebox in Uileacu de Criș, Bihor, Romania

In Arad, Alexandra has sent back the following pictures whilst distributing shoeboxes.

                                        

At the moment boxes are being distributed in Belarus where weather conditions are very cold down to -20

A big thank you to everybody that has made this campaign so successful in very difficult times! ******************************************

HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: JANUARY 16th

From Jan Lear:

 

Mareike, Joel and myself wanted to email all of you to say thank you for the love, support and prayers during our time with you. 2020 was not an easy year for any of us, and we faced many challenges. However, what we did in the Circuit, [especially online] I believe will continue to grow within the future. I would personally like to thank everyone for rising up to the challenge that we faced. Especially since what we did reached so many people, and I am sure brought hope and comfort to families who felt isolated during this  time. 

I would also like to say thank you for all of the messages, cards and gifts. It was a lovely surprise and we will treasure them always. And even though we are moving to Europe, the Circuit will always have a special place in our hearts. We will continue to hold everyone up in prayer, and one day I will look forward to seeing what the Circuit is doing outside of Lockdown. 

 

May God richly bless all of you. 

Troy, Mareike and Joel

A message from Veronica (in Lagos)  : -

"Now I exhort you to be of good cheer; for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you" (Acts 27:22a).
As you and your entire family journey to and fro in this season of uncertainty, you will suffer no loss of life, property and finances.
Everything under your care, whether living or non living is secured and divinely preserved.
He with God is a majority, you will not be an abandoned project in God's hand in the mighty name of Jesus Christ.
I wish you a beautiful morning, a blessed day and a successful week. Shalom! 

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If you  have  thoughts and ideas for H.O.P.E. in 2021 please let me know

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SAFER FAMILIES                          

You may remember some time ago, we had a visit during worship from someone from Safer Families to talk to us about their organisation. They give support to disadvantaged and vulnerable families.

Here’s a message from them

Birmingham and Black Country Stories of Hope – Join us for half an hour of hope!

 We are holding a 30-minute zoom call sharing stories of hope. Can you help me by sharing this opportunity with your church, family or friends please? If you are a family friend or a host let us know if you would like to share a story with others on the call. Last time we held this event we all came away encouraged! Sign up here! https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/stories-of-hope-from-safe-families-tickets-133755958673 The zoom link is on the Eventbrite. 

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                             HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWS: JANUARY 9th

Michelle Mills and Tim Baker  are pleased to announce they have  grown their family by adoption.

They say....On December 15th. we brought home two little girls – Lili aged 4 and Rosie aged 2. It’s been a long, hard road to get to this point but we look forward to a future as a family. 

                                 Congratulations to you all on your happy news. 

Welcome Lili and Rosie

                                                             

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Margaret Raxster celebrates her 70th Birthday on January 17th.

   

Happy Birthday Margaret

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Troy, Mareike and Joel will be leaving for their new life in Germany on January 15^th. 

We wish  you God speed and pray that your journey 

and your plans go smoothly in these troubled times. 

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Tony Trevithick is to have a knee replacement operation on January 16^th. 

We remember Tony in our prayers and pray for a successful result

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and finally....

                                   Covid 19 – getting the jab                                       

Hint from someone on the front line – please make sure that you have a copy of your NHS number
to hand when you go for your vaccination, as this will help to cut time and speed up the process of vaccination
to as many as possible...

...and don’t forget to pick up your certificate of vaccination.

Above all, STAY SAFE!

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                       HASBURY CHURCH FAMILY NEWSJANUARY 2nd

May we move into this New Year with hope

CONGRATULATIONS 

                                                    

Jan Lear has been awarded an M.B.E in the New Years Honours List  in recognition of her work with young people over the past 20 plus years through the success of the Black Country Wheels project.

Jan’s citation reads "Founder and Head Teacher, Black Country Wheels School, Stourbridge. For services to education in the West Midlands."

Jan, we know that you put your heart and soul into working with these young people and your M.B.E is richly deserved.  Love and Congratulations