The Herald

On the lst Day of Christmas the first candle of the Advent Wreath was lit and continued each Sunday till the final lighting of the centre candle to signify Christ’s birth.

The 2^nd Day of Christmas following the Gift Sunday service for Action for Children (which in all raised £360), over 60 of St John’s family joined together for a delicious Christmas lunch beautifully prepared and served by Jan Turner and her excellent team, testing the newly refurbished kitchen to its full limit. Thank you Jan and all your helpers and thank you Steve (Pugh) for seeing the kitchen work through.

On the 3^rd Day of Christmas St John’s had the honour of putting forward a modern reality Nativity “A very smelly Christmas” written by the daughter of John and Ann Boardman and spontaneously performed by “Messy Church” children, plus a lot of thought put in by helpers ready with simple costumes for the participants. Greatly appreciated by all. Thank you Jo B.

On the 4^th Day of Christmas Playbox presented their nativity to very proud parents and grandparents. Their age range was 4 years down to 2½ years, but all 29 children had a part, beautifully robed as angels, shepherds or sheep if not in a specific role. Jackie Stephens, their leader, narrated and encouraged and the other loyal staff guided them through their roles – a truly united and heart warming experience for performers and viewers.

Playbox also entered a decorated Christmas tree at St Peter’s this year to the theme of a book “The Magic of Christmas”. All the children had made mice for the decorations, the characters of the story.

The 5^th Day of Christmas saw a baptism and a second performance of the Nativity “A very smelly Christmas”, this time with the congregation taking part.

The 6^th Day of Christmas was the evening Carol Concert, a really warm and family atmosphere in the Church. The choir gave their all and had prepared some truly magnificent carols and songs. Thank you choir for your constant contribution. Hot drinks and mince pies were enjoyed at the end of the concert.

On the 7^th Day of Christmas fourteen noble souls went carol singing around the St John’s neighbourhood. They raised a great response from families, and, as a result, some attended the Christingle service a few days later.

On the 8^th Day of Christmas the Church blossomed for the Christingle service. Having at first appeared to be just a few people, burst into a throng of 100, many families and a lively atmosphere. The decorated oranges, which represent the World and candle, the light of Christ, had been lovingly created, ran slightly short but were shared with Christmas spirit.

On the 9^th Day of Christmas a Christmas Eve midnight service brought together 25 people to celebrate Holy Communion.

The 10^th Day of Christmas was Christmas Day, lovely to see some new faces to the Church service.

The 11^th Day of Christmas – New Year’s Day – a morning service of the Carol Concert much appreciated by those who had been unable to get to the earlier evening one. The choir, who had been afflicted with winter colds and voice problems, although smaller in number, still gave their utmost. Again, thank you choir.

The 12^th Day of Christmas is in fact an over all big ‘thank you’ to all who gave time and thought in the decoration of the Church. The erection of the magnificent Christmas tree, the candle window-sill decorations gave a setting for the detailed effect around the Church. Thank you to all. Thank you to John Boardman, the Stewards and the many who contributed behind the scenes to have made this St John’s Christmas one to remember. May the spirit of Christmas remain with us all throughout the year.

On Friday 2nd March over 3 million people world wide will be praying and worshipping together during the annual Day of Prayer, using a form of service prepared by Christian women in Malaysia.

Malaysia, in Southeast Asia, is a country of contrasts, a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country - the official religion is Islam with a Christian minority of 8%, many of whom live in Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysia’s modern cities and the widespread use of the latest technology provide a contrast to the remote areas where people follow a traditional way of life. Some people have become very rich since World War II when the country suffered brutal occupation under the Japanese, while others are desperately poor and marginalized. Tourists who flock to Malaysia for its beautiful scenery and fascinating variety of wildlife feel safe because crimes are harshly punished, whereas the poorer inhabitants experience injustice, greed and corruption. Malaysia is now the most popular destination country in Asia for migrant workers, and human trafficking has become a sophisticated and organised operation.

Whilst some women achieve a high level of education and are represented in many important professions, women of all races and classes still face powerlessness, discrimination and violence at all levels of society - even today a girl child is seen as less valuable than a boy.

It is against this complex background that the Christian women of Malaysia prepared our Service for 2012. In their Christian context they have had to deal with the theme sensitively, and we need to study the words of the service carefully and ask ourselves what the women are really saying to us. The challenge to all who take part in this service is clear: it takes courage, compassion and active engagement to let justice prevail. As Christians we are called to act to bring about change in the unjust world in which we live today. The change may not happen quickly but we must never give up the struggle.

The Sudbury Women’s World Day Committee (made up of representatives from 15 different local churches) invites you to join them in this special annual service which takes place on the first Friday of March. We are most grateful to Sudbury Baptist Church for offering to host the Service.

THE WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER SERVICE

“Let Justice Prevail” a Service prepared by the Christian women of Malaysia

on FRIDAY 2^ND MARCH 2012 at 10.00am

at SUDBURY BAPTIST CHURCH Church Street, Sudbury, CO10 2BJ

ALL ARE WELCOME

Tea & Coffee will be served after the service

It has been proposed that responsible gambling should be taught in schools. Concern is being expressed that one in fifty twelve to thirteen year olds is now a problem gambler. The National Lottery, by contributing to good causes, attempts to make gambling respectable. But is it?

We recognise that risks have to be taken in order to achieve most things. Cycling is beneficial to health but it carries with it a moderate chance of injury. Responsible cyclists therefore familiarise themselves with the Highway Code and wear a crash helmet. It’s good to have a house in which to live but it carries the risk of being burnt down. The responsible owner takes out insurance to mitigate the consequences of such chance. Gambling is the deliberate creation of unproductive risk for enjoyment. In responsible business transactions, both parties benefit and hopefully get satisfaction in so doing. Put simply, gambling serves only to pander to innate greed. My gain comes at the expense of another’s loss. That the loser also sought gain at my loss, should not bring me any joy. It is the antithesis of loving one’s neighbour. Make no a mistake, it is never harmless. If it’s fun, it’s a sad reflection on us.

In the Bible there is a progression of thought about chance. At first it was believed that God used our exercise of chance to reveal his will. In the Old Testament we read how Saul was appointed king by lot (hence our word ‘lottery’). Later, when Judas was replaced as one of the twelve, prayer preceded the casting of lots. But after the coming of the Holy Spirit, Saul (renamed Paul) and Barnabus were appointed to mission after prayer and fasting without any casting of lots. “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth,” was the promise of Jesus.

An Anglican minister once confided how he envied the Methodists for not having raffles and games of chance at their bazaars. Alas, no longer! Conference has removed their prohibition and Church Councils have erred and strayed like lost sheep, following the desires of their hearts. God have mercy.

Look up I Samuel 10 v.20, Acts 1 vv.24-26, Acts 13 v.3, John 16 v.13 (NRSV) Keith Horton

We should like to thank Richard Stanford very much for the bookcase he has made the Church. This is the second item he has made out of an old table originally owned by our former organist, Mrs Bessie Maxim. The bookcase (trolley) holds all our books and has tidied our back pew from books. The first item he made was of course, our lectern. Thank you so much, Richard.

On 12^th December we held our Carol Service led by Rev. John Boardman. This time it was rather special as it was candle-lit. Margaret Potter sang a solo which was delightful; we look forward to a repeat next Christmas.

Peter and Ann Chubb led a lovely Christingle Service at our Old People’s Home, The Briars, on Christmas Eve. The residents really enjoyed receiving their Christingles and the fire brigade was not needed. Glemsford send their good wishes for a peaceful New Year to all.

A funny thing happened to me yesterday. I was on foot waiting to cross a zebra crossing. A young lad on his moped stopped to let me cross. I heard him say “There you are, Grandma.” I turned to tell him not to be so cheeky when I realised I was indeed his Grandma for it was my grandson Sam. A friend has suggested that I should go to Spec-savers who I have assured that my eyes are fine. My Grandson having a helmet on and not being in Sudbury was the last person I expected to see. Daphne Jay

A Quiz Night is to be held on Saturday 17th March. Please book the date. Details next month.

St John's is presenting a Call My Bluff evening on Saturday 18th February at 7.30 pm.

The quiz will be preceded by a two course meal and promises to provide a lot of fun and laughter.

A list for those who are intending to come can be found in the Link; please add your name as we need numbers for catering purposes.

The monthly average figure for the four months 1^st September to 31^st December 2011 was -

This includes the weekly collection, the regular monthly contributions directly to the bank and an appropriate part of amounts given regularly but at less frequent intervals. The monthly average for the previous twelve months was -

Please speak to me if you have any questions or something you would like to discuss.

On 6^th December we had our “Carols by Candlelight” evening which is always well attended. We were entertained by The Music Makers, directed by Ann Platten, with a variety of Christmas carols, songs and lovely solos. Ann and Peggy read poems which were very enjoyable; we really appreciated them coming again this year.

Following the interval for refreshments we all sang carols of our choice. The Christmas stocking was passed round and £45 was collected in aid of Action for Children.

Our next meeting on Tuesday, 7^th February, will be a talk by Phyllis Felton on St Leonard’s Hospital. This is an open evening, everyone very welcome.

For the Annual Church Meeting to be held on Sunday March 4^th following the service, I would like to produce a booklet of the annual reports of all church organisations. I will be badgering you in the next couple of weeks!!

Our programme this winter is studying the lives of some of the “Memorable Christians of the Past”. In December we discussed the life of Augustine of Hippo. He was born in 354AD in North Africa where he spent his childhood. Although introduced to Christianity by his mother, his interests as a young man and brilliant student led him to travel and to spend his early manhood seeking knowledge and fame, coupled with a promiscuous personal life. His gifts, including philosophy and anatomy, were outstanding and he was appointed a chief professor of rhetoric in Italy.

Open to discussing the philosophies and religions of that time he was befriended by Bishop Ambrose, and greatly influenced by the example of Ambrose’s life and friendship, Augustine believed that God was reaching out to him, and he was baptised in 387AD. Returning to North Africa his faith deepened, and four years later whilst visiting Hippo, he was ordained by the Bishop there. Five years later the Bishop died and Augustine succeeded him. An accomplished orator he preached well, and he wrote copiously. His surviving works include 113 books and treatises, 200 letters and 500 sermons. Many of us will recognise the prayer written in commemoration of Augustine which contains the words - “so to know you that we may truly love you – and so to love you that we may truly serve you – whom to serve is perfect freedom”.

In January we discussed the progress of Christianity in Britain in the 7^th Century, through the life of St Hilda and the events around the Synod of Whitby. It was a troubled time – small kingdoms with armies prone to quarrel with neighbours; armies of vandals appearing with little warning and quarrelling with one another as much as with the more established population.

Hilda had royal connections. For her first 33 years she led a secular life, then the remainder was dedicated more definitely to God through a monastic life. Her wisdom and organising ability were soon recognised and she was appointed abbess firstly at Hartlepool; then in 657AD she refounded the large monastery at Whitby where she was hostess for the famous Synod 663/4AD.

Christianity had come to Britain by two different streams – one through Ireland and the other more directly from Rome. The different traditions met to find common ground, especially over the date of Easter. Hilda supported the Irish, but accepted the decision in favour of Rome. Consulted by kings and common people Hilda devoted her life and position to encouraging and helping people from all backgrounds.

From this spring, the new co-ordinators of the Leys Housegroup will be Ann Smythe and Beverly Richardson.

Gift Day this year will be on Saturday March 17^th and will be combined with a coffee morning and a garden clearance. Please make a note of this date.

'THE SHACK is the most absorbing work of fiction I've read in many years. My wife and I laughed, cried and repented of our own lack of faith along the way. THE SHACK will leave you craving for the presence of God.' – so comments one reader. Other comments include:-

'This story reads like a prayer - like the best kind of prayer, filled with sweat and wonder and transparency and surprise. If you read one work of fiction this year, let this be it.'

'Reading THE SHACK during a very difficult transition in my life, this story has blown the door wide open to my soul.'

The Shack is the book that has been chosen for discussion at the first meeting of the Book Club to be held on March 19^th at 2.30 pm at the church. The Minister is holding 6 copies ready for people to borrow. First come, first served!

As most of you will know, we had unprecedented quantities of jams, pickles, chutneys, relishes and the like at last October’s Autumn Fair. This has left me Jane Brooker and me with a dwindling stock of jars for next year.

If you could please save your glass jars for us we would be most grateful. We can use most jars as long as they have metal lids. I am happy to remove the labels as it benefits us to know what was previously in the jar – some with savoury products cannot be subsequently used for jam for example.

When you have any jars then please pass them onto me and Jane and I will sort them out. If you would like me to collect them I can do this also if you just let me know. If you are unsure about a jar just pass it on anyway as any we cannot use I will recycle.

It is hoped that we can take steps towards becoming an eco-congregation. The first meeting to look at what we have achieved already, and what we still need to do, will be on Monday 13^th February at 7.30 at the church. This is open to everyone. Please do come along.

Church stewards and the Sunday experience
The practical duties church stewards carry out are crucial to creating a positive experience both for the visiting local preacher or minister and the congregation on a Sunday morning.

For many people the Sunday service, rather than housegroups or interest groups, is where they find their main point of connection with the church. More churches are also finding that a growing percentage of their congregations feel a strong sense of belonging but are unable to attend every week. For churchgoers, and for the regulars, there is an even greater need for continuity and quality in the church service.

Church stewards have a key role to play in enabling a worship service which expresses Kingdom values of grace, love and unity.

These are not the only responsibilities of a church steward, but they are important ones. Could you help the church by becoming either a church steward or a welcome steward? Please speak to the minister or any of the stewards if you would like to know more about these essential roles.

Are your ‘spirits’ affected by the weather? Maybe relaxed, content and happy in the summer months, more inward-looking and less adventurous in the colder times of the year? February has the reputation of being the month when many people feel depressed and woebegone. Possibly as a result of being the third month of winter, with spring still some time away; of nights continuing to be dark; of days continuing to be very cold, and not much respite from having to remain shut up indoors for lots of the time. At least that’s my experience. Give me the beauty of spring flowers beginning to show in the garden, the warmth of longer days, the heat of summer, the pleasure of spending long hours outside – and my spirits lift. Perhaps it boils down to the contrast between light and dark. Gloomy thoughts cluster around ideas of illness, being ‘under the weather’, of death. Brightness attracts sensations of pleasure, well-being, of life even. It makes me think of probably the best-loved Psalm of all, Psalm 23. The Psalmist talks of walking ‘through the valley of the shadow of death’. Just as the months and seasons change but always come back again, there is no way we can escape the inevitability of death, whether it involves a family member, a friend or the approach of our own. The Psalmist also speaks of lying down in green pastures and walking beside quiet waters – although it is incredibly unlikely that he was familiar with Sudbury’s water meadows, he could have been describing them on a summer’s day! The point of the Psalm is that whatever our spirits, high or low, the Lord God cares for us, He ‘restores’ us, guides us and is always with us – to and beyond the end.

This Covenant was signed by more than 200 church members at and soon after a United Service in January 2007. It was previously renewed on 19th January 1997.

We, as servants of the church in Sudbury & District, acknowledge with joy our membership one of another in Christ and in His ministry which we share; we acknowledge with sorrow all that hinders the full expression of our union in Jesus Christ, the one mediator between God and humankind (1Tim2:5).

Therefore we covenant to come together – in prayer and study; in prophetic and public witness; in planning for mission through evangelism and social action, for Christian nurture, and for the building up of the church locally.

Together we seek the help of the Holy Spirit in these things so that where we live and work the loving purposes of God for His creation may be served.

To this covenant we now commit ourselves, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Thursdays 2 & 9 February – Healing & Bereavement Seminars. Details 01787 249828

If you would like to receive weekly information about what is happening in churches in Sudbury and District, email Malcolm Snow at malcolmsnow@onetel.com to get your email address added to his circulation list.

In his book Making Friends - Evangelism the Easy Way, British author Steve Legg included these statistics for coming to Christ: -

Steve wrote "These figures have tremendous implications for all Christians. They show clearly that friendships and relationships are God's major strategy for reaching the lost. If we want to see change in the world, we must live in the world. We must get out of our cosy Christian ghettos, start making friends and start being Good News".

Isaiah’s image of redemption would be very familiar to his audience and meaningful in their situation. Jesus used everyday situations of his day as illustrations in his parables. All who commend the gospel today must endeavour to use language and imagery understood in twenty-first century Britain. But Christianity is an historic religion and there is no escape from relating the present to the past. Our Faith centres on Jesus Christ, revealed two thousand years ago, whose life and ministry are written down for us in the Bible. Biblical words such as ‘lamb’, ‘throne’ and ‘slave’ surely require little effort to understand. ‘Redemption’ is harder but is still used in everyday commercial transactions which interest us all. Our use of the word ‘sacrifice’ meaning ‘giving up something of value for the sake of another’ derives from the Bible and is a development of earlier primitive superstitions. Modern Bible translations help our understanding but there is no way its revolutionary concepts can be accommodated to modern secular society. What troubles us most is not the parts we don’t understand but the parts we do. ‘Love your enemies’ is easy to understand but hard to practise. To borrow the title of a series of commentaries, ‘The Bible speaks today.’ Even so, the example of Christian living counts for more. There is no argument against a holy life. People are spiritually hungry, indicating God is already calling them. It is up to all of us to offer them the love of God as simply and compassionately as we can. For their part, they must be willing to learn of him. If they acknowledge their need of him, God will walk with them.

DEADLINE FOR NEXT HERALD – SUNDAY FEBRUARY 18^th. Please email any contribution to Tricia Campbell - triciacampbell@lycos.com – or leave it in the tray in the Link.

in St Peter's Church on Thursday 1st March, from 7.30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Entry Fee £1 - Refreshments served. Profits will be divided between St Peter's Church and the Sudbury Fairtrade Group

{Several Models (sizes 10 - 18) are being sought! Please apply to Revd John Boardman, if you are interested}

There will be some clothes for men, but the majority of the Fairly-traded Cotton goods will be for ladies.