St. George's Parish Magazine December

St. George’s

December 2011Rushbottom LaneNew Thundersley

ParishMagazine

She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,because he will save his people from their sins. Matthew 1: 21

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New Thundersley


December 2011Rushbottom LaneNew ThundersleyNew ThundersleyNew ThundersleyRushbottom LaneDecember 2011December 2011Rushbottom Lane

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Vicar Revd. Anthony Rose 792088CurateRevd. Peter Begley 01702 476500Youth PastorRevd. Peter Hillman 755306ReaderMr. Dave Brown 753238Church WardensMrs. Margaret Rostron 757984Mrs. Anne Nunn 754332Church AdministratorMrs. Denise Marsh 792088o�ce hours Mon - Thurs 9.30-12pmIntercession Prayer RequestMrs. Margaret King 752571Honorary SecretaryMrs. Lynda King 771174

Honorary TreasurerMrs. Irene Lock 750882OrganistMrs. Ina Osborn 793453Magazine EditorsMrs. Marisa Murphy 565464Mrs. Karen Smith 776443Magazine SecretaryMrs. Margaret King 752571Missionary SecretarySuzanne Marshak 755663Fair Trade GoodsKaren HillmanYouth People LeadersDragon Slayers (5-11yrs)Mrs. Jane Rose 792088Under 5’sMrs. Jean Payne 754132

St. George’s Pre-SchoolMon - Fri 9.15 - 12 noonApply at Church hall after 10.00am

St. George’s Parent & Toddlers GroupThursdays 1.00 - 3.00pmJane Rose 792088

RainbowTuesdays 5.00 - 6.00pmKelliesue Je�ery 565461Friday 4.30 - 5.30pmDenise Mechem-White�eld 751766

BrowniesTuesday 4.45 - 6.00pmMrs. D. Longhurst 751766Wednesday 4.15 - 5.45pmMrs. Janice Adams 757619

GuidesWednesday 6.15 - 7.45pmSusie Miller 750362

CubsFriday 6.15pmAlan & Carol Lynes 690976

ScoutsFriday 8.00pmMr. J Payne 754132

Church Home GroupsSee weekly notice sheet

River of God1st Wednesday of the month

Mens Prayer NightLast Thursday of the month

Hall Booking SecretaryJoy Mickleburgh 07808 164724

Wives ClubThursday 8.00pmGloria Logan

Altar GuildMary Bridgeman 792296

New Thundersley Seniors ClubTuesday 2.00 - 4.00pmMavis Fawell 794305Mary Bridgeman 792296

New Thundersley Townswomans Guild1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month2nd and 4th Tuesday of every monthfor more information please Jan Payne 01268 757395

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4th Christmas Lunch

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18th - 10.00am Communion Service4.00pm All-age Christmas Celebration with Christingles6.30pm Traditional Carol Service(Seasonal refreshments at the 4pm and 6.30pm services)

Christmas Eve 24th December4.00pm Carols around the Crib(Especially suitable for young children)11.00pm Midnight Communion

Christmas Day 25th December10.00am All-age Christmas Morning Celebration

New year eve party 8.30pm - 1.00am

contents St.george’s magazineSundays at St George’s 2Contacts 2What’s on 3Anthony’s Welcome 4 - 5Editorial 6New Year Eve party 7Calling all 70 percenters 8 - 9Remembrance Sunday 10 -11Book review 11Church Meetings 14 -16A christmas i always remember 17

Barney’s page 18Cap 20Puzzle page 22Recipe 24Gardening 25 Group contacts 27

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Anthony’s Welcome

Dear friends,

There are always stories at this time of year to amuse us. I read about a man in Ohio who was arrested after allegedly breaking into a family's house and putting up their Christmas decorations. The 44-year-old apparently let himself into the house, lit a candle and turned on a TV before doing some Christmas decorating. He was allegedly high on bath salts, of all things. The family's 11-year-old son reportedly came home after the break-in and found him sitting on the couch. It ended peacefully, I'm glad to say, but I'd love to see the police report!

The story in itself is a little unusual, but what's even more remarkable is that the date of the news story I saw was 14th November. Now, either the man found the decorations in a cupboard somewhere or the family really were going to put up the decorations that early. I know that shops have them in ridiculously early these days, but I

know there are those who decorate their homes early too. Christmas has become something rather stretched out, even though most people take down the decorations very quickly instead of waiting for the traditional twelve days of Christmas.

Why do people do this with Christmas? Don't get me wrong; I think it's a very special time of year. It's obviously an opportunity for families to get together, the atmosphere is always special, and even nasty people can behave as human beings sometimes! The sad thing, I fear, is that for many people it's become simply an attempt to escape the realities of life. In the current economic climate, and with our over-exposure to bad news through the media, people will hang on to anything that gives them a sense of well-being.

Karl Marx famously once wrote that religion is 'the opium of the people'. He believed that people sought solace in religion as an illusion that would turn their attention away from their plight of poverty and oppression by the ruling classes. That's why communism in the Soviet Union for many years persecuted Christians and tried to destroy the church. Now, we could take that phrase of Marx's and easily apply it to all manner of things; drugs, alcohol, the false hope gambling gives, living for holidays, anything that takes our minds o� everyday realities. And I think for some

Do You Dig It.....As usual I did not achieve all I set out to do last month, if you managed any of my suggestions from last month well done that’s great!Still here is a quick reminderDigging over the beds and adding Nitro chalk, Potash and Blood Fish & Bone.Covering Beds with Black Plastic so they are nice and warm, for an early start in spring!Washing and sterilizing all pots, containers and racking.Also two other jobs are turning the compost in your bin and cleaning/sharpening your tools for the new season. And keep checking that stored fruit, we don’t need one rotten apple spoiling a barrel!I have just ordered my seed cata-logues, its good to sit in a comfy chair and plan the crop rotation of veg beds as well as pots. Stick with what has worked, dump what hasn’t. Try some-thing new and by listing where it likes to grow, when it is best to sow / harvest and store. By keeping a note book each year with the information to hand, I �nd I don’t miss sowing times or plant in the wrong soil, but you all know I have a terrible memory.Short and sweet this month as the garden and us are resting.

God Bless to allPaul Cleasby

Have you ever thought aboutadopting part of the church garden? Claire and I did after the last clean up day. We had been working on the front garden near the bus stop when we decided to adopt it.So far we have cut back several shrubs, planted cyclamen and bulbs. We are currently in the process of clearing and weeding the area. We �nd it very enjoyable watching the area improve and also very relaxing. Why don't you give it a go too!

Sue Benton and Claire Littlejohn

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people we could add Christmas to the list as well - 'Christmas is the opium of the people'! It's a strange mixture really, because although most say they're looking forward to it, the pressures are on to be ready in time, to spend what they haven't got, and so on.If you really delve into what Christmas is supposed to be about – celebrating the birth of Christ – you actually �nd little in the story that's escapism. Instead, there's much to do with the harsh realities of life: poverty and short life-expectancy for most at the time, a baby born in very di�cult circumstances, a harsh occupying imperial force, a cruel and jealous king, an enforced exile for Jesus and his family. Yet we still celebrate the event as having immense signi�cance. In fact, that signi�cance comes not from the birth story itself but from what happens later. Jesus grows up to become the One who will save mankind by bearing our sin in his death on the cross and opening the way to eternal life with God his Father. That's what gives us the real hope of Christmas, not the tinsel and the vague goodwill that lasts only a while. No, this hope lasts and it sees you through everything, thick and thin, if you have a living connection with the hope-giver.

Actually, we sing of this reality of hope in the carols every year. Try these lines for instance:

'Cast out our sin, and enter in, be born in us today.''Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth.''Jesus Christ was born to save!''Not in that poor, lowly stable, we shall see him; but in heaven, set at God's right hand on high.'

Many of these songs look forward to something more than just the Nativity. Those who have found a real relationship with the cruci�ed, risen Christ will tell you that they can celebrate Christmas in a far more meaningful and deep way than they ever could without him, and in him they look forward to a glorious eternal future.

I do pray that you can �nd a hope this year that goes deeper than the decorations, that lasts longer than the Christmas TV schedules, that is more meaningful than the presents you may give or receive and that will last well beyond the season, indeed into eternity.

A truly happy Christmas and joyful New Year to you and yours from me and mine!

With best wishes,

Anthony.

Ye Olde Christmas Cake by Margaret Hillman

It’s that time of year again and I know that many of you enjoy making my old Granny’s Christmas cake but have lost the recipe. Well, don’t despair it’s not too late you still have time before Christmas to get cooking.

Ingredients

1lb 4oz Dried Fruit soaked for three days in sherry.4oz raisins4oz currants4oz glace cherries quartered6oz soft margarineI bottle cognac6oz dark soft brown sugarGrated rind of lemonGrated rind of orange3 eggsI tabsp black treacle2oz blanched almonds chopped4oz plain flour2 oz self-raising flourI tsp. mixed spice.

Method

Sample the cognac to check for quality.Take a large bowl. Check cognac again. To be absolutely sure it is of the highest quality, pour one level cup and drink it. Repeat. Turn on the electric mixer; beat soft margarine and sugar in large fluffy bowl.Add eggs and beat again. Make sure the cognac is still ok. Cry another tup.Turn off the mixerer. Chuck in the dried fruit. Mix on the turner.If the dried fruit gets stuck in the beaterers, pry loose with a drews-criver.Sample the cognac to check for tonsisticity.Nest sift the flour or salt or something, who cares?Check the cognac.Now sift the lemon juice and strain your nuts. Add one tablespoon of something. Whatever you've got left.Grease the oven.Turn the cake on to 300 degrees.Don't forget to beat off the turner. Throw the bowl out of the window.Check the cognac again and go to bed.

Marks & Spencer produce a very good Christmas Cake which you can always bring home in a discreet carrier bag.Merry Christmas to All.

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Editorial

Email the magazine [email protected]

Have your say

25th December is Christmas Day, when we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, according to the gospels of Matthew and Luke. After Easter it is the most important feast of the ecclesiastical year.Christmas, as we know it today, is a creation of the nineteenth century. The Christmas tree, originally from Germanic areas, spread to other areas of Europe and America. The carols were retrieved and many new ones were composed (the custom of sing-ing carols, though of ancient origins, comes mainly from the nineteenth century). Christmas cards did not start to be used until the 1870s, although the �rst was printed in London in 1846.The familiar image of Santa Claus, with the sleigh, reindeer and bags with toys, is an American invention from these years, but the legend of Santa Claus is old and complex, partly derived from St. Nicholas and a jovial medieval �gure, the spirit of Christmas. In Russia he traditionally has a pink piglet under his arm.Today, Christmas is a time of great commercial activity and the exchange of gifts.At the �rst Christmas there was only Jesus. In our present-day Christmas there are lots of things ... but hope-fully, still, Jesus.Christmas is about the Baby Jesus. There is the custom in some houses to prepare for the birth a few days before 24th December, but the cradle in the cave is empty, Jesus is unborn. We could say that all that birth, with

dozens of �gures, with mountains, shepherds and animals, do not make sense until the main �gure, which incidentally is very small, that of Jesus, is placed in the manger. Something similar happens in the soul. Until Jesus is born in the hearts of men it is not yet Christmas, but only the hope of it. The most important thing is within the heart, where God is born. The cave where Jesus was born was a dirty and ugly cave, abandoned. But when the Blessed Virgin placed her child in that crib, it became the throne of God and the cave of heaven. Our soul is a cave like that; dirty and ugly until God dwells there. Our manger, our heart, is just a place to store more or less good feelings. But when God dwells in us our heart and soul become a heaven. This is Christ-mas, heaven in our souls, Jesus in our hearts.Toast with our wine and our Christmas meal the coming of the Son of God. Let us open the doors of our homes and our hearts.The Baby Jesus came to give his life for our salvation, for the redemption of our sins.May this Christmas pour out upon our families the peace that the angels announced – “Peace to the men who love the Lord”

God Bless

Marisa & Karen

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Z N F D G G F R W E D Z Z Z A E O N S A S A D Z T U F A E H L N O N C R D K F W V N O S N S R G J P I F D L P U W L I A O R Q G L E D E E D E V N Y D R S Y L O M D L F E V O K Z Z R A M N P N E E U N V U B A O E N E J P E E V E A L V I S E T T V W B P W O C I A V S Y F R P G I B A I T U A A N I T H G Z M E Z S G N F O H N G N X S D T O C E H G O R J E J B J I I U A E I F N V M T S A E E R H S G E F Y X L H P W O F C S O N F E I T H T G G E I E O R G D L Y S S C S N K I O O M N H T H J E N N N O E E S I H Z T L K I I I V Q V G R M G Y H N O K N V D I W P P P U G R N G S L O F O O I E T P S W H E F V E C H M F S P G T W J A A N R R W F J A K I R Q B H Y M D R O Q D D H E U T E F X Q O K T F S O I S A E K A E M T O D U V J H F O R T O U S O S F S K O N N F D V T M C F Z D E P T L Q L K E X H D R X I O L O N T P Y P E X M R A D H Q R V O D O N K G X L O T O D N E O N E B L L I W E R E H T U A P Y X U T D W T N E M N R E V O G S I H F O M L W I L L A C C O M P L I S H T H I S Q P M Z X W D Y T H G I M L A D R O L E H T D O G Y T H G I M E Y E S T H E G O V E R N M E N T H G U P R D J K R X Y S J K M F T E S T A B L I S H I N G T A U L S W I T H J U S T I C E N G I E R L L I W E H Q U U A C H I L D I S B O R N U P H O L D I N G Z U H H

The following 25 phrases are all found in Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV). Can you find them all? They are in passage order.

• FOR TO US • A CHILD IS BORN• A SON IS GIVEN• THE GOVERNMENT • ON HIS SHOULDERS

• HE WILL BE CALLED • WONDERFUL COUNSELLOR• MIGHTY GOD• EVERLASTING FATHER• PRINCE OF PEACE• OF THE GREATNESS • OF HIS GOVERNMENT• AND PEACE• THERE WILL BE NO END• HE WILL REIGN

• ON DAVID’S THRONE• OVER HIS KINGDOM• ESTABLISHING • UPHOLDING• WITH JUSTICE • RIGHTEOUSNESS • FROM THAT TIME ON • AND FOREVER• THE LORD ALMIGHTY• WILL ACCOMPLISH THIS

Isaiah 9:6-7 – The darkness turns to light

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CALLING ALL 70 PERCENTERSby Ken Miller

Christmas comes but once a year, and so do many Christians to church. Why is it that some people who mark on a census form that they are Christian (about 70% of the population at the last count) only make the e�ort to come to church during the Christmas period? Some will come into the church building just to see their children or grandchildren take part in a festive pageant re-enacting the Christmas story of Jesus who was born in poverty in a stable; there he is, so small, so cuddly, so meek, so mild, so needing protection, and not a threat to anyone. The cattle are lowing the baby awakes, the little Lord Jesus no crying He makes. I love thee Lord Jesus and ask thee to stay close by me forever and love me I pray. Some once-a-year-Christians will come because Christmas is meant to be a happy time of the year, and singing traditional hymns with candles aglow and mulled wine afterwards seems to evoke the best sort of cosiness in us 70 percenters, and these traditions help chase away the mid-winter blues.

Why do we need to go to church more often than once a year? Well, if you put on your census form that you are a Christian, then you must believe that there is a God. If you believe that there is a God, who will one day judge us all, perhaps it would be to our bene�t to pay attention to what He tells us to do before judgement day comes around (Revelation 14:7). When Jesus �rst visited this planet in human form 2000 years ago, and stayed for around 33 years, He informed the world that He had not come to judge the world but

to save it (John 12:47). On that occasion he had simply come to reveal God’s plan for the world (Ephesians 1:9-10), and tell us what we had to do to avoid God’s judgement in the future (Matthew 4:17). But make no mistake, the warning has already been given, next time we see Him it will be judgement time; the sheep will be separated from the goats (Matthew 25:31-46).

For the past 1500 years the laws and moral precepts that have guided this nation and in�uenced the world have been drawn from the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose birth we celebrate at this time of the year, and from God’s manual for human beings, the Bible. This Holy book tells us that: ‘All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right’ (2 Timothy 3:16). The book of Proverbs (2:6) in the Old Testament informs us that: ‘It is the Lord who gives wisdom; from Him come knowledge and understanding.’ As we collectively turn our backs on God’s truth we start to walk in ignorance. Let us list some of the signs of our disconnect from the Word of God: lack of wisdom, a banking crisis led by greed and stupidity, greater inequality, social strife, gang culture, rioting, excessive greed at the top of society, celebrity worship, pornography in shops and on the Internet, alcohol abuse, prolifera-tion of drug use, broken families, national and personal debt crisis, 5m people in the UK dependent on state handouts, adultery is common and accepted in high places, the down-grading of marriage, full prisons, abortion - around 180,000 unborn

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babies are destroyed on the altar of convenience each year in this country alone. The moral and spiritual tank of this nation is nearly empty, we are spluttering to a moral collapse. Is this the sort of world we wish to leave to our children; do we want them to be brought up knowing the laws of God or the laws of the jungle?

All visitors to St. George’s this Christ-mas are being o�ered a free copy of the New Testament which describes the history and teachings of Jesus Christ. We urge you to accept this gift and put it to good use by reading it regularly; look up the quotations in this article and pray to God for a greater understanding of His word. The 70 percenters of this nation must help push back the ignorance that is engul�ng the people, parliament, and the judiciary. Become one of the 5 percenters who regularly come to church to worship our Lord and to hear the Word of God spoken. For the sake of the well being of this nation it is imperative that we narrow the gap between the 5 percenters and the 70 percenters. Year’s ago there used to be a car sticker reminding people that dogs are not just for Christmas; well, perhaps it’s about time that Christians got to understand that churchgoing is not just for Christmas either. We need to save ourselves, and this nation; help us to become the salt and light for this generation (Matthew 5:13-16). A comfortable way of re-connecting with the teachings of Christ is to come along to an internationally acclaimed evening Alpha Course where a pleas-ant meal is served to those on the course in a home setting with a short talk followed by informal discussions. Stay in touch for details of the next course.

“Let us be concerned for one another, to help one another to show love and to do good. Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another all the more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer.” Hebrews 10:24-25 (GNB).

We at St. George’s pray that you will all have an enjoyable Christmas, and a God-inspired New Year, and we look forward to meeting many of you at St. George’s in the future.

God bless.

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Remembrance Sunday by Richard Seely

I have been marching in the Cenotaph Remembrance Parade for a number of years with one of the ex-service organisations to which I belong, namely ‘The Fellowship of the Services’. For the past three years I have been asked to lay the wreath when we march past the Cenotaph after the memorial service. The parade is organised by The Royal British Legion, and they now have it o� to a �ne art, having done it so often, but there still is a huge amount of work to be sorted beforehand, as well as everything coming together on the day. Each year I receive my ticket to get onto Horse Guards, a number to show our position in our column, and the wreath. This year we were still to be in our usual column ‘F’, but instead of being in the middle, we were to be the lead unit. We would have a great view of all the dignitaries forming up around the Cenotaph for the service and the laying of their wreaths, normally I watch it on the big screens they have along Whitehall. I arrived on Horse Guards at about 8.25am because I knew I would have to hold the column marker to guide the

others of our organisation to we had to muster, as they only knew the column they were in, not the position in that column. I was one of the earlier ones to arrive, and after showing my pass at the entrance, walked over to collect my marker. Each column has a couple of stewards as well as a column marshal, and they told me where to stand and I then learnt that we were to be the �rst column to go out onto Whitehall. There is a great atmosphere and a real feeling of togetherness, both on Horse Guards and in the crowds thronging the surrounding streets, made up of a huge mix of people ranging from the very old to the quite young. About 9.55am the column marshal was getting a bit concerned as there were still only two of us in our group, and he wanted six across when we were to move o� at 10.15am! Thankfully in the next �fteen minutes about �fty turned up and so we could make a good showing. We also had a Guards o�cer as our right hand marker and to guide us to our allotted position in Whitehall. They are very precise with their markings as they have to �t four columns into Whitehall and there is very little room to spare. At 10.15am we marched o� through the arch into Whitehall and into our position about �fty yards from the Cenotaph, so we had a great view of all that occurred. It was here that I learnt that we were to be the lead o� column for the march past after the ceremonies, which was a huge and very pleasant surprise. We watched as more bands arrived as well as detachments of all the services to take up their pre-ordained positions around the area. At about 10.50am the dignitaries started to emerge onto Whitehall and �nally, just as Big Ben started, the Royal party came out and

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Hello friends,Christmas is such an exciting time

of year: the world celebrates the birth of the baby Jesus.

Through Isaiah, God told the Israelites that Jesus would be coming. Isaiah wrote his words about Jesus about 700 years before he was born! That’s a long time to wait – a lot longer than the 24 days on your Advent Calendars.

Jesus is a special person, just look at the names Isaiah uses to describe him – amazing, strong, eternal and a prince. No wonder Jesus’ birth is a really special time and it’s great that we can celebrate it.

Whatever you do this year, have a very Happy Christmas!

Love Barney

Jesus, a VERY special personFor a child has been born—for us! the gift of a son—for us!He’ll take over the running of the world.His names will be: Amazing Counselor, Strong God, Eternal Father, Prince of Wholeness.Isaiah 9:6 (The Message)

What did Adam say

on the day before

Christmas?

It’s Christmas, Eve!

Dear God, Thank you that we can celebrate Christmas – please help me to remember

that it’s all about Jesus. Amen

What is a mum’s favourite Christmas carol? Silent Night!

thesheepdip.co.uk

Barney says

Barney’s jokes

Let’s talk to God!

God’s word

The nativity

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took their positions. The gun sounds for the start of two minutes silence which is ended with The Last Post, and the laying of the wreaths. The Bishop of London leads a short but very moving service, after which the Royal party and all the other dignitaries leave the parade. It is then our turn to march past and to hand in our wreaths for them to be laid at the Cenotaph. One of the guards’ bands took up position a little way ahead of us, and as they moved o� about a dozen members of The Royal British Legion marched in behind them and then we followed. I handed in the wreath as we came up to the Cenotaph to a very e�cient group of people who lay them, forming a great carpet of pop-pies at one end of the Cenotaph. We marched up to Parliament Square, did a right turn into Great George Street, a left turn along the side of St. James Park. I can never get over how moving it is with the packed crowds along the whole route clapping and cheering the whole way. The atmosphere as one marches is electric and very humbling, but so glad to be able to honour those who cannot be there. We approached Horse Guards again and about half way along the salute is taken by a member of the Royal family, and this year it was the Prince of Wales, after which we turn back onto Horse Guards where we are dismissed. The weather had been glorious and I was so pleased to have been part of this Remembrance Day Parade.

Book Review by Paul Cleasby

Everyman’s BattleBy Stephen Arterburn and Fred StoekerFrom all sides we are being attacked,TV, mags, computers and billboards with sensual images that are impossible to avoid, but not to rise above!Guys if you feel a separation from God, when all around you are really close, it’s worth reading this book, to get a spirit of Job who made a covenant with his eyes, God called him blameless and upright. Would you like God to think of you in the same way?

Mens events for the Diary

Wednesday 8th February 2012Ten Pin Bowling, Basildon

Saturday 17th March 2012London Men’s Convention

J H BuildingServices

all Carpentry & Building work

FITTED KITCHENS, BEDROOMSUPVC WINDOWS & DOORS

22 years experience

reliable & professional service

for a FREE no obligation quotecontact Jessy on

tel 01268 565844mobile 07966 227146

5 Romsey Road, Benfleet,Essex. SS7 5TP

12 17

BrooksAre you looking for high quality, �exible and compassionate care in your own home?

• Our company is owned and managed by quali�ed nurses

• Free Assessment

• Providing assistance with washing and dressing

• Respite, shopping and light household chores

Please contact us on 01702 526797www.brooks-care.co.uk

Beauty By SarahLondon trained freelance Beauty TherapistCarrying out a range of Professional Treatments

Now AvailableAdvanced Electrolysis to remove Thread Veins/Dilated Capilaries, Spider Naevi, Cherry Spots, Skin Tags & Millia

Gift vouchers availablecontact SARAH on 01286 - 793544B.A.B.T.A.C.

FURNITURE SUPERSTORE

665 High RoadTarpots Corner

Benfleet

FURNITURE KINGDOM LTD

01268 759731

P.W. DECORATORSPainting Decorators&General Maintenance

Ring PaulFor a free quote on01268 699195 07815 769329

A Christmas I Always Remember by Margaret King

When I was organist at St Margaret’s one Christmas Eve I was playing for the midnight communion. It was a wonderful and uplifting experience. The church was lit entirely by candles except for one low watt bulb over the organ. The church was packed and many of the congregation were having to stand at the back. It had been a very uplifting and emotional service and the singing of carols and hymns led by the choir, raised the rafters. At the end of the service the rector was reading The Last Gospel which begins “In the beginning was the Word” (St John 1:1-14) when in the congrega-tion a 6 week old baby started to cry. It was such an emotional moment.We had been celebrating the birth of Jesus when suddenly this baby started to cry. I did get very emotional and the tears started to fall – so much so that I had difficulty in playing the last hymn. Even now, when I remember this incident at Christmas I still feel very emotional.

ArundelFood & Wine Stores

92 Arundel RoadBenfleet

tel: 01268 756731

your Doorstep ConvenienceStore for all your Grocery

and Off Sales Requirements

A Fine Selection of Wines & Beers always available

Opening HoursMon - Sat

8:00am - 10:00pmSun 9:00am - 9:00pm

mobile 07828 890489 07852 145326Home 01268 565844

JGB PlasteringDrylining

CovingArtex

RenderingDot & Dab

Decorating

call Jamie TODAYfor a FREE quote

C C Computer Services

Computer repairs & upgradesWireless networks installedComputers built to your specificationsVirus & Spyware removalNew computer set ups & instruction to get you startedWeb sites designed and constructed

PC Healthcheckonly£15

Contact Charlie on: 01268 759736 or 07927 232592

Full service&

spring clean

131616


Have your say

is about so much more than merely meetings or singing.With all that in mind, how might we need to change the style of our 11 o'clock service in future in order to keep the essence of what we're doing whilst trying to share what we have with others that aren't used to what we've become used to? Maybe our musical style will need to change; perhaps sitting in rows (there's few places outside church where people do that) isn't the best way of encouraging people to interact with each other; maybe the method of Bible teaching will be more interactive too in future – we vary rarely sit and listen to one person speak for an extended period outside church; perhaps we'll need to think about ways of encouraging more people to use their gifts and participate rather than consume what is presented to them; isn't it strange that when we're at home with friends or watching TV, we often have co�ee or tea at the same time, but in church we wait until the meeting is over?Finally, on the subject of style versus substance, take a look at this excerpt from a U.S newspaper objecting to the new trends in church music:“There are several reasons for opposing it.• One, it’s too new.• Two, it’s often worldly, even blasphe-mous.• The new Christian music is not as pleasant as the more established style.• Because there are so many songs, you can’t learn them all.• It puts too much emphasis on instru-

mental music rather than Godly lyrics.• This new music creates disturbances making people act indecently and disorderly.• The preceding generation got along without it.• It’s a money making scene and some of these new music upstarts are lewd and loose.”This was written by a pastor in 1723 attacking Isaac Watts, the writer of great hymns like 'When I Survey the Won-drous Cross', 'Joy to the World', and 'O God, Our Help in Ages Past'. It just goes to show that changes to traditional ways of worshipping God have always been di�cult for people but that the way in which we conduct our church meetings now has changed over the years and will need to keep changing in future.

by Jonathan Pinnock

14 15

St. George's has a vision and a purpose statement that read:Our vision is to see the community around us transformed by God through relationship with Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.Our purpose is to be and to do all we can to enable our vision to become reality. We therefore aim:• To encounter God as we worship the risen Christ.• To grow in our prayer life, individually and together, always giving thanks to God and learning to pray in accordance with His will as we seek His guidance in all things.• To grow in community life through love and acceptance of each other, learning to be disciples of Christ through our relationships, our study of His Word, and our openness to the workings of His Spirit.• To fulfil our mission to win the wider community for Christ through evange-lism and social care.

The 11 o'clock Sunday meeting is just one of the times in the week when our community comes together to try to put some of these aims into practice. We spend some of the time giving thanks and praise to God for what He does and for who He is. This is often done using songs, music and words that are contemporary and accessible to those who aren't perhaps familiar with a traditional English form of church

service. We have a couple of bands who share leading these times, but participa-tion during the meeting from the whole church is welcomed, as the point of these times is for everyone to be able to express their worship to Jesus and to encounter Him as they do so.We pray together for our nation, for Benfleet, and for people who are in particular need. We also make a point of asking (and receiving) God's forgiveness for where we have slipped up and fallen short of His standards.Since we believe God is very much alive and active and cares for us all, we try to listen to Him for any specific situations where He wants to help someone. We share these together and o�er prayer for anyone who would like to respond. Some of the answers to prayer have been amazing.In order to learn more about God, and about how to be followers of Jesus, we read a part of the Bible and someone (normally Anthony, our vicar) explains what it means and how to apply it in our own lives.At the same time as all this is happening, the children have their own events in the church hall next door although at several times during the year, we all meet together.Once a month, we especially remember together the sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross so that we could all be forgiven. We call this 'communion'.After the meetings, there always time to

catch up and chat with each other over tea or co�ee.The 11 o'clock service is quite informal; the intention of this again is so that we don't exclude those from the wider community in Ben�eet who aren't used to church traditions. Someone once said that church is the only organisation which exists for the benefit of its non-members, so we try to make those who don't normally attend feel as welcome as possible. Many visitors have com-mented that they have been pleasantly surprised that church isn't as stuffy, boring and irrelevant as they'd expected. If you're at a loose end one Sunday morning, you'd be very welcome to come along and try us out.So, is the 11 o'clock style of meeting the only right way of “doing church”?; could it be improved? The answers are “no” to the first question and “yes' to the second.God's handbook for our lives (the Bible) doesn't actually provide us with the exact “correct” meeting or service format. It does give some guidelines and principles but its the substance rather than the style of meeting which is important as far as the Bible is concerned. We'd all do well to heed that when we start to think that the format of church service that we like best (and it usually is about personal preferences and what we've become comfortable with) is the “right” way to do it. Styles or traditions of worship vary from church to church and even within the same church. That's fine as long as the main principles and guidelines are followed, and if the tradition or format doesn't

end up being our main concern. The essence of why we meet together is far more important than the expression of how we meet.Some of the principles mentioned in the Bible include:• We should meet together and encour-age each other (Hebrews 10v25)• We should “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs”. (Ephesians 5 v19)• When we meet together it is implied that we should remember what Jesus did for us by sharing a meal of bread and wine together (Communion) but we should forgive each other first and not dishonour Jesus by the way that we conduct ourselves during the meal. (1 Corinthians 11)• Our meetings should be orderly, but this instruction was given because there were too many prophecies/revelations etc. and too many people were speaking at once, not because everything is supposed to follow the same format every week!. (1 Corinthians 14 v40)• We should care for each other and put each other first (1 Corinthians 11)• Our worship should be focussed on God and not about how we like to organise our meetings. In other words, its all about Him and not us.• We should share the good news of Jesus in a way that is relevant to our culture (that's what Jesus was doing when He used parables to teach people).In the end, our Sunday meetings aren't the be all and end all of 'church'. The Sunday meeting isn't what church is supposed to be all about really. Worship

14 15

St. George's has a vision and a purpose statement that read:Our vision is to see the community around us transformed by God through relationship with Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.Our purpose is to be and to do all we can to enable our vision to become reality. We therefore aim:• To encounter God as we worship the risen Christ.• To grow in our prayer life, individually and together, always giving thanks to God and learning to pray in accordance with His will as we seek His guidance in all things.• To grow in community life through love and acceptance of each other, learning to be disciples of Christ through our relationships, our study of His Word, and our openness to the workings of His Spirit.• To fulfil our mission to win the wider community for Christ through evange-lism and social care.

The 11 o'clock Sunday meeting is just one of the times in the week when our community comes together to try to put some of these aims into practice. We spend some of the time giving thanks and praise to God for what He does and for who He is. This is often done using songs, music and words that are contemporary and accessible to those who aren't perhaps familiar with a traditional English form of church

service. We have a couple of bands who share leading these times, but participa-tion during the meeting from the whole church is welcomed, as the point of these times is for everyone to be able to express their worship to Jesus and to encounter Him as they do so.We pray together for our nation, for Benfleet, and for people who are in particular need. We also make a point of asking (and receiving) God's forgiveness for where we have slipped up and fallen short of His standards.Since we believe God is very much alive and active and cares for us all, we try to listen to Him for any specific situations where He wants to help someone. We share these together and o�er prayer for anyone who would like to respond. Some of the answers to prayer have been amazing.In order to learn more about God, and about how to be followers of Jesus, we read a part of the Bible and someone (normally Anthony, our vicar) explains what it means and how to apply it in our own lives.At the same time as all this is happening, the children have their own events in the church hall next door although at several times during the year, we all meet together.Once a month, we especially remember together the sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross so that we could all be forgiven. We call this 'communion'.After the meetings, there always time to

catch up and chat with each other over tea or co�ee.The 11 o'clock service is quite informal; the intention of this again is so that we don't exclude those from the wider community in Ben�eet who aren't used to church traditions. Someone once said that church is the only organisation which exists for the benefit of its non-members, so we try to make those who don't normally attend feel as welcome as possible. Many visitors have com-mented that they have been pleasantly surprised that church isn't as stuffy, boring and irrelevant as they'd expected. If you're at a loose end one Sunday morning, you'd be very welcome to come along and try us out.So, is the 11 o'clock style of meeting the only right way of “doing church”?; could it be improved? The answers are “no” to the first question and “yes' to the second.God's handbook for our lives (the Bible) doesn't actually provide us with the exact “correct” meeting or service format. It does give some guidelines and principles but its the substance rather than the style of meeting which is important as far as the Bible is concerned. We'd all do well to heed that when we start to think that the format of church service that we like best (and it usually is about personal preferences and what we've become comfortable with) is the “right” way to do it. Styles or traditions of worship vary from church to church and even within the same church. That's fine as long as the main principles and guidelines are followed, and if the tradition or format doesn't

end up being our main concern. The essence of why we meet together is far more important than the expression of how we meet.Some of the principles mentioned in the Bible include:• We should meet together and encour-age each other (Hebrews 10v25)• We should “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs”. (Ephesians 5 v19)• When we meet together it is implied that we should remember what Jesus did for us by sharing a meal of bread and wine together (Communion) but we should forgive each other first and not dishonour Jesus by the way that we conduct ourselves during the meal. (1 Corinthians 11)• Our meetings should be orderly, but this instruction was given because there were too many prophecies/revelations etc. and too many people were speaking at once, not because everything is supposed to follow the same format every week!. (1 Corinthians 14 v40)• We should care for each other and put each other first (1 Corinthians 11)• Our worship should be focussed on God and not about how we like to organise our meetings. In other words, its all about Him and not us.• We should share the good news of Jesus in a way that is relevant to our culture (that's what Jesus was doing when He used parables to teach people).In the end, our Sunday meetings aren't the be all and end all of 'church'. The Sunday meeting isn't what church is supposed to be all about really. Worship

ArundelFood & Wine Stores

92 Arundel RoadBenfleet

tel: 01268 756731

your Doorstep ConvenienceStore for all your Grocery

and Off Sales Requirements

A Fine Selection of Wines & Beers always available

Opening HoursMon - Sat

8:00am - 10:00pmSun 9:00am - 9:00pm

mobile 07828 890489 07852 145326Home 01268 565844

JGB PlasteringDrylining

CovingArtex

RenderingDot & Dab

Decorating

call Jamie TODAYfor a FREE quote

C C Computer Services

Computer repairs & upgradesWireless networks installedComputers built to your specificationsVirus & Spyware removalNew computer set ups & instruction to get you startedWeb sites designed and constructed

PC Healthcheckonly£15

Contact Charlie on: 01268 759736 or 07927 232592

Full service&

spring clean

131616


Have your say

is about so much more than merely meetings or singing.With all that in mind, how might we need to change the style of our 11 o'clock service in future in order to keep the essence of what we're doing whilst trying to share what we have with others that aren't used to what we've become used to? Maybe our musical style will need to change; perhaps sitting in rows (there's few places outside church where people do that) isn't the best way of encouraging people to interact with each other; maybe the method of Bible teaching will be more interactive too in future – we vary rarely sit and listen to one person speak for an extended period outside church; perhaps we'll need to think about ways of encouraging more people to use their gifts and participate rather than consume what is presented to them; isn't it strange that when we're at home with friends or watching TV, we often have co�ee or tea at the same time, but in church we wait until the meeting is over?Finally, on the subject of style versus substance, take a look at this excerpt from a U.S newspaper objecting to the new trends in church music:“There are several reasons for opposing it.• One, it’s too new.• Two, it’s often worldly, even blasphe-mous.• The new Christian music is not as pleasant as the more established style.• Because there are so many songs, you can’t learn them all.• It puts too much emphasis on instru-

mental music rather than Godly lyrics.• This new music creates disturbances making people act indecently and disorderly.• The preceding generation got along without it.• It’s a money making scene and some of these new music upstarts are lewd and loose.”This was written by a pastor in 1723 attacking Isaac Watts, the writer of great hymns like 'When I Survey the Won-drous Cross', 'Joy to the World', and 'O God, Our Help in Ages Past'. It just goes to show that changes to traditional ways of worshipping God have always been di�cult for people but that the way in which we conduct our church meetings now has changed over the years and will need to keep changing in future.

by Jonathan Pinnock

J H BuildingServices

all Carpentry & Building work

FITTED KITCHENS, BEDROOMSUPVC WINDOWS & DOORS

22 years experience

reliable & professional service

for a FREE no obligation quotecontact Jessy on

tel 01268 565844mobile 07966 227146

5 Romsey Road, Benfleet,Essex. SS7 5TP

12 17

BrooksAre you looking for high quality, �exible and compassionate care in your own home?

• Our company is owned and managed by quali�ed nurses

• Free Assessment

• Providing assistance with washing and dressing

• Respite, shopping and light household chores

Please contact us on 01702 526797www.brooks-care.co.uk

Beauty By SarahLondon trained freelance Beauty TherapistCarrying out a range of Professional Treatments

Now AvailableAdvanced Electrolysis to remove Thread Veins/Dilated Capilaries, Spider Naevi, Cherry Spots, Skin Tags & Millia

Gift vouchers availablecontact SARAH on 01286 - 793544B.A.B.T.A.C.

FURNITURE SUPERSTORE

665 High RoadTarpots Corner

Benfleet

FURNITURE KINGDOM LTD

01268 759731

P.W. DECORATORSPainting Decorators&General Maintenance

Ring PaulFor a free quote on01268 699195 07815 769329

A Christmas I Always Remember by Margaret King

When I was organist at St Margaret’s one Christmas Eve I was playing for the midnight communion. It was a wonderful and uplifting experience. The church was lit entirely by candles except for one low watt bulb over the organ. The church was packed and many of the congregation were having to stand at the back. It had been a very uplifting and emotional service and the singing of carols and hymns led by the choir, raised the rafters. At the end of the service the rector was reading The Last Gospel which begins “In the beginning was the Word” (St John 1:1-14) when in the congrega-tion a 6 week old baby started to cry. It was such an emotional moment.We had been celebrating the birth of Jesus when suddenly this baby started to cry. I did get very emotional and the tears started to fall – so much so that I had difficulty in playing the last hymn. Even now, when I remember this incident at Christmas I still feel very emotional.

Hello friends,Christmas is such an exciting time

of year: the world celebrates the birth of the baby Jesus.

Through Isaiah, God told the Israelites that Jesus would be coming. Isaiah wrote his words about Jesus about 700 years before he was born! That’s a long time to wait – a lot longer than the 24 days on your Advent Calendars.

Jesus is a special person, just look at the names Isaiah uses to describe him – amazing, strong, eternal and a prince. No wonder Jesus’ birth is a really special time and it’s great that we can celebrate it.

Whatever you do this year, have a very Happy Christmas!

Love Barney

Jesus, a VERY special personFor a child has been born—for us! the gift of a son—for us!He’ll take over the running of the world.His names will be: Amazing Counselor, Strong God, Eternal Father, Prince of Wholeness.Isaiah 9:6 (The Message)

What did Adam say

on the day before

Christmas?

It’s Christmas, Eve!

Dear God, Thank you that we can celebrate Christmas – please help me to remember

that it’s all about Jesus. Amen

What is a mum’s favourite Christmas carol? Silent Night!

thesheepdip.co.uk

Barney says

Barney’s jokes

Let’s talk to God!

God’s word

The nativity

We o

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r the

birt

h of

Jesu

s thr

ough

Na

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pla

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olou

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18 11

took their positions. The gun sounds for the start of two minutes silence which is ended with The Last Post, and the laying of the wreaths. The Bishop of London leads a short but very moving service, after which the Royal party and all the other dignitaries leave the parade. It is then our turn to march past and to hand in our wreaths for them to be laid at the Cenotaph. One of the guards’ bands took up position a little way ahead of us, and as they moved o� about a dozen members of The Royal British Legion marched in behind them and then we followed. I handed in the wreath as we came up to the Cenotaph to a very e�cient group of people who lay them, forming a great carpet of pop-pies at one end of the Cenotaph. We marched up to Parliament Square, did a right turn into Great George Street, a left turn along the side of St. James Park. I can never get over how moving it is with the packed crowds along the whole route clapping and cheering the whole way. The atmosphere as one marches is electric and very humbling, but so glad to be able to honour those who cannot be there. We approached Horse Guards again and about half way along the salute is taken by a member of the Royal family, and this year it was the Prince of Wales, after which we turn back onto Horse Guards where we are dismissed. The weather had been glorious and I was so pleased to have been part of this Remembrance Day Parade.

Book Review by Paul Cleasby

Everyman’s BattleBy Stephen Arterburn and Fred StoekerFrom all sides we are being attacked,TV, mags, computers and billboards with sensual images that are impossible to avoid, but not to rise above!Guys if you feel a separation from God, when all around you are really close, it’s worth reading this book, to get a spirit of Job who made a covenant with his eyes, God called him blameless and upright. Would you like God to think of you in the same way?

Mens events for the Diary

Wednesday 8th February 2012Ten Pin Bowling, Basildon

Saturday 17th March 2012London Men’s Convention

10 19

M. G. CLARKPLUMBING SERVICES

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Remembrance Sunday by Richard Seely

I have been marching in the Cenotaph Remembrance Parade for a number of years with one of the ex-service organisations to which I belong, namely ‘The Fellowship of the Services’. For the past three years I have been asked to lay the wreath when we march past the Cenotaph after the memorial service. The parade is organised by The Royal British Legion, and they now have it o� to a �ne art, having done it so often, but there still is a huge amount of work to be sorted beforehand, as well as everything coming together on the day. Each year I receive my ticket to get onto Horse Guards, a number to show our position in our column, and the wreath. This year we were still to be in our usual column ‘F’, but instead of being in the middle, we were to be the lead unit. We would have a great view of all the dignitaries forming up around the Cenotaph for the service and the laying of their wreaths, normally I watch it on the big screens they have along Whitehall. I arrived on Horse Guards at about 8.25am because I knew I would have to hold the column marker to guide the

others of our organisation to we had to muster, as they only knew the column they were in, not the position in that column. I was one of the earlier ones to arrive, and after showing my pass at the entrance, walked over to collect my marker. Each column has a couple of stewards as well as a column marshal, and they told me where to stand and I then learnt that we were to be the �rst column to go out onto Whitehall. There is a great atmosphere and a real feeling of togetherness, both on Horse Guards and in the crowds thronging the surrounding streets, made up of a huge mix of people ranging from the very old to the quite young. About 9.55am the column marshal was getting a bit concerned as there were still only two of us in our group, and he wanted six across when we were to move o� at 10.15am! Thankfully in the next �fteen minutes about �fty turned up and so we could make a good showing. We also had a Guards o�cer as our right hand marker and to guide us to our allotted position in Whitehall. They are very precise with their markings as they have to �t four columns into Whitehall and there is very little room to spare. At 10.15am we marched o� through the arch into Whitehall and into our position about �fty yards from the Cenotaph, so we had a great view of all that occurred. It was here that I learnt that we were to be the lead o� column for the march past after the ceremonies, which was a huge and very pleasant surprise. We watched as more bands arrived as well as detachments of all the services to take up their pre-ordained positions around the area. At about 10.50am the dignitaries started to emerge onto Whitehall and �nally, just as Big Ben started, the Royal party came out and

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babies are destroyed on the altar of convenience each year in this country alone. The moral and spiritual tank of this nation is nearly empty, we are spluttering to a moral collapse. Is this the sort of world we wish to leave to our children; do we want them to be brought up knowing the laws of God or the laws of the jungle?

All visitors to St. George’s this Christ-mas are being o�ered a free copy of the New Testament which describes the history and teachings of Jesus Christ. We urge you to accept this gift and put it to good use by reading it regularly; look up the quotations in this article and pray to God for a greater understanding of His word. The 70 percenters of this nation must help push back the ignorance that is engul�ng the people, parliament, and the judiciary. Become one of the 5 percenters who regularly come to church to worship our Lord and to hear the Word of God spoken. For the sake of the well being of this nation it is imperative that we narrow the gap between the 5 percenters and the 70 percenters. Year’s ago there used to be a car sticker reminding people that dogs are not just for Christmas; well, perhaps it’s about time that Christians got to understand that churchgoing is not just for Christmas either. We need to save ourselves, and this nation; help us to become the salt and light for this generation (Matthew 5:13-16). A comfortable way of re-connecting with the teachings of Christ is to come along to an internationally acclaimed evening Alpha Course where a pleas-ant meal is served to those on the course in a home setting with a short talk followed by informal discussions. Stay in touch for details of the next course.

“Let us be concerned for one another, to help one another to show love and to do good. Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another all the more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer.” Hebrews 10:24-25 (GNB).

We at St. George’s pray that you will all have an enjoyable Christmas, and a God-inspired New Year, and we look forward to meeting many of you at St. George’s in the future.

God bless.

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Strugglingwith�DebtIn partnership with Christians Against Poverty (CAP) St George’s has set up a centre in Ben�eet. CAP o�ers FREE debt counselling for everyone.If you need help to gain control of your �nances, CAP has a number of options, whether through face to face debt counselling, attending a CAP Money Course, or using our online tools and Self Help Pack. To learn more, check out: www.capuk.org

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8

CALLING ALL 70 PERCENTERSby Ken Miller

Christmas comes but once a year, and so do many Christians to church. Why is it that some people who mark on a census form that they are Christian (about 70% of the population at the last count) only make the e�ort to come to church during the Christmas period? Some will come into the church building just to see their children or grandchildren take part in a festive pageant re-enacting the Christmas story of Jesus who was born in poverty in a stable; there he is, so small, so cuddly, so meek, so mild, so needing protection, and not a threat to anyone. The cattle are lowing the baby awakes, the little Lord Jesus no crying He makes. I love thee Lord Jesus and ask thee to stay close by me forever and love me I pray. Some once-a-year-Christians will come because Christmas is meant to be a happy time of the year, and singing traditional hymns with candles aglow and mulled wine afterwards seems to evoke the best sort of cosiness in us 70 percenters, and these traditions help chase away the mid-winter blues.

Why do we need to go to church more often than once a year? Well, if you put on your census form that you are a Christian, then you must believe that there is a God. If you believe that there is a God, who will one day judge us all, perhaps it would be to our bene�t to pay attention to what He tells us to do before judgement day comes around (Revelation 14:7). When Jesus �rst visited this planet in human form 2000 years ago, and stayed for around 33 years, He informed the world that He had not come to judge the world but

to save it (John 12:47). On that occasion he had simply come to reveal God’s plan for the world (Ephesians 1:9-10), and tell us what we had to do to avoid God’s judgement in the future (Matthew 4:17). But make no mistake, the warning has already been given, next time we see Him it will be judgement time; the sheep will be separated from the goats (Matthew 25:31-46).

For the past 1500 years the laws and moral precepts that have guided this nation and in�uenced the world have been drawn from the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose birth we celebrate at this time of the year, and from God’s manual for human beings, the Bible. This Holy book tells us that: ‘All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right’ (2 Timothy 3:16). The book of Proverbs (2:6) in the Old Testament informs us that: ‘It is the Lord who gives wisdom; from Him come knowledge and understanding.’ As we collectively turn our backs on God’s truth we start to walk in ignorance. Let us list some of the signs of our disconnect from the Word of God: lack of wisdom, a banking crisis led by greed and stupidity, greater inequality, social strife, gang culture, rioting, excessive greed at the top of society, celebrity worship, pornography in shops and on the Internet, alcohol abuse, prolifera-tion of drug use, broken families, national and personal debt crisis, 5m people in the UK dependent on state handouts, adultery is common and accepted in high places, the down-grading of marriage, full prisons, abortion - around 180,000 unborn

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Z N F D G G F R W E D Z Z Z A E O N S A S A D Z T U F A E H L N O N C R D K F W V N O S N S R G J P I F D L P U W L I A O R Q G L E D E E D E V N Y D R S Y L O M D L F E V O K Z Z R A M N P N E E U N V U B A O E N E J P E E V E A L V I S E T T V W B P W O C I A V S Y F R P G I B A I T U A A N I T H G Z M E Z S G N F O H N G N X S D T O C E H G O R J E J B J I I U A E I F N V M T S A E E R H S G E F Y X L H P W O F C S O N F E I T H T G G E I E O R G D L Y S S C S N K I O O M N H T H J E N N N O E E S I H Z T L K I I I V Q V G R M G Y H N O K N V D I W P P P U G R N G S L O F O O I E T P S W H E F V E C H M F S P G T W J A A N R R W F J A K I R Q B H Y M D R O Q D D H E U T E F X Q O K T F S O I S A E K A E M T O D U V J H F O R T O U S O S F S K O N N F D V T M C F Z D E P T L Q L K E X H D R X I O L O N T P Y P E X M R A D H Q R V O D O N K G X L O T O D N E O N E B L L I W E R E H T U A P Y X U T D W T N E M N R E V O G S I H F O M L W I L L A C C O M P L I S H T H I S Q P M Z X W D Y T H G I M L A D R O L E H T D O G Y T H G I M E Y E S T H E G O V E R N M E N T H G U P R D J K R X Y S J K M F T E S T A B L I S H I N G T A U L S W I T H J U S T I C E N G I E R L L I W E H Q U U A C H I L D I S B O R N U P H O L D I N G Z U H H

The following 25 phrases are all found in Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV). Can you find them all? They are in passage order.

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• ON DAVID’S THRONE• OVER HIS KINGDOM• ESTABLISHING • UPHOLDING• WITH JUSTICE • RIGHTEOUSNESS • FROM THAT TIME ON • AND FOREVER• THE LORD ALMIGHTY• WILL ACCOMPLISH THIS

Isaiah 9:6-7 – The darkness turns to light

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6

Editorial


Have your say

25th December is Christmas Day, when we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, according to the gospels of Matthew and Luke. After Easter it is the most important feast of the ecclesiastical year.Christmas, as we know it today, is a creation of the nineteenth century. The Christmas tree, originally from Germanic areas, spread to other areas of Europe and America. The carols were retrieved and many new ones were composed (the custom of sing-ing carols, though of ancient origins, comes mainly from the nineteenth century). Christmas cards did not start to be used until the 1870s, although the �rst was printed in London in 1846.The familiar image of Santa Claus, with the sleigh, reindeer and bags with toys, is an American invention from these years, but the legend of Santa Claus is old and complex, partly derived from St. Nicholas and a jovial medieval �gure, the spirit of Christmas. In Russia he traditionally has a pink piglet under his arm.Today, Christmas is a time of great commercial activity and the exchange of gifts.At the �rst Christmas there was only Jesus. In our present-day Christmas there are lots of things ... but hope-fully, still, Jesus.Christmas is about the Baby Jesus. There is the custom in some houses to prepare for the birth a few days before 24th December, but the cradle in the cave is empty, Jesus is unborn. We could say that all that birth, with

dozens of �gures, with mountains, shepherds and animals, do not make sense until the main �gure, which incidentally is very small, that of Jesus, is placed in the manger. Something similar happens in the soul. Until Jesus is born in the hearts of men it is not yet Christmas, but only the hope of it. The most important thing is within the heart, where God is born. The cave where Jesus was born was a dirty and ugly cave, abandoned. But when the Blessed Virgin placed her child in that crib, it became the throne of God and the cave of heaven. Our soul is a cave like that; dirty and ugly until God dwells there. Our manger, our heart, is just a place to store more or less good feelings. But when God dwells in us our heart and soul become a heaven. This is Christ-mas, heaven in our souls, Jesus in our hearts.Toast with our wine and our Christmas meal the coming of the Son of God. Let us open the doors of our homes and our hearts.The Baby Jesus came to give his life for our salvation, for the redemption of our sins.May this Christmas pour out upon our families the peace that the angels announced – “Peace to the men who love the Lord”

God Bless

Marisa & Karen

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people we could add Christmas to the list as well - 'Christmas is the opium of the people'! It's a strange mixture really, because although most say they're looking forward to it, the pressures are on to be ready in time, to spend what they haven't got, and so on.If you really delve into what Christmas is supposed to be about – celebrating the birth of Christ – you actually �nd little in the story that's escapism. Instead, there's much to do with the harsh realities of life: poverty and short life-expectancy for most at the time, a baby born in very di�cult circumstances, a harsh occupying imperial force, a cruel and jealous king, an enforced exile for Jesus and his family. Yet we still celebrate the event as having immense signi�cance. In fact, that signi�cance comes not from the birth story itself but from what happens later. Jesus grows up to become the One who will save mankind by bearing our sin in his death on the cross and opening the way to eternal life with God his Father. That's what gives us the real hope of Christmas, not the tinsel and the vague goodwill that lasts only a while. No, this hope lasts and it sees you through everything, thick and thin, if you have a living connection with the hope-giver.

Actually, we sing of this reality of hope in the carols every year. Try these lines for instance:

'Cast out our sin, and enter in, be born in us today.''Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth.''Jesus Christ was born to save!''Not in that poor, lowly stable, we shall see him; but in heaven, set at God's right hand on high.'

Many of these songs look forward to something more than just the Nativity. Those who have found a real relationship with the cruci�ed, risen Christ will tell you that they can celebrate Christmas in a far more meaningful and deep way than they ever could without him, and in him they look forward to a glorious eternal future.

I do pray that you can �nd a hope this year that goes deeper than the decorations, that lasts longer than the Christmas TV schedules, that is more meaningful than the presents you may give or receive and that will last well beyond the season, indeed into eternity.

A truly happy Christmas and joyful New Year to you and yours from me and mine!

With best wishes,

Anthony.

Ye Olde Christmas Cake by Margaret Hillman

It’s that time of year again and I know that many of you enjoy making my old Granny’s Christmas cake but have lost the recipe. Well, don’t despair it’s not too late you still have time before Christmas to get cooking.

Ingredients

1lb 4oz Dried Fruit soaked for three days in sherry.4oz raisins4oz currants4oz glace cherries quartered6oz soft margarineI bottle cognac6oz dark soft brown sugarGrated rind of lemonGrated rind of orange3 eggsI tabsp black treacle2oz blanched almonds chopped4oz plain flour2 oz self-raising flourI tsp. mixed spice.

Method

Sample the cognac to check for quality.Take a large bowl. Check cognac again. To be absolutely sure it is of the highest quality, pour one level cup and drink it. Repeat. Turn on the electric mixer; beat soft margarine and sugar in large fluffy bowl.Add eggs and beat again. Make sure the cognac is still ok. Cry another tup.Turn off the mixerer. Chuck in the dried fruit. Mix on the turner.If the dried fruit gets stuck in the beaterers, pry loose with a drews-criver.Sample the cognac to check for tonsisticity.Nest sift the flour or salt or something, who cares?Check the cognac.Now sift the lemon juice and strain your nuts. Add one tablespoon of something. Whatever you've got left.Grease the oven.Turn the cake on to 300 degrees.Don't forget to beat off the turner. Throw the bowl out of the window.Check the cognac again and go to bed.

Marks & Spencer produce a very good Christmas Cake which you can always bring home in a discreet carrier bag.Merry Christmas to All.

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Anthony’s Welcome

Dear friends,

There are always stories at this time of year to amuse us. I read about a man in Ohio who was arrested after allegedly breaking into a family's house and putting up their Christmas decorations. The 44-year-old apparently let himself into the house, lit a candle and turned on a TV before doing some Christmas decorating. He was allegedly high on bath salts, of all things. The family's 11-year-old son reportedly came home after the break-in and found him sitting on the couch. It ended peacefully, I'm glad to say, but I'd love to see the police report!

The story in itself is a little unusual, but what's even more remarkable is that the date of the news story I saw was 14th November. Now, either the man found the decorations in a cupboard somewhere or the family really were going to put up the decorations that early. I know that shops have them in ridiculously early these days, but I

know there are those who decorate their homes early too. Christmas has become something rather stretched out, even though most people take down the decorations very quickly instead of waiting for the traditional twelve days of Christmas.

Why do people do this with Christmas? Don't get me wrong; I think it's a very special time of year. It's obviously an opportunity for families to get together, the atmosphere is always special, and even nasty people can behave as human beings sometimes! The sad thing, I fear, is that for many people it's become simply an attempt to escape the realities of life. In the current economic climate, and with our over-exposure to bad news through the media, people will hang on to anything that gives them a sense of well-being.

Karl Marx famously once wrote that religion is 'the opium of the people'. He believed that people sought solace in religion as an illusion that would turn their attention away from their plight of poverty and oppression by the ruling classes. That's why communism in the Soviet Union for many years persecuted Christians and tried to destroy the church. Now, we could take that phrase of Marx's and easily apply it to all manner of things; drugs, alcohol, the false hope gambling gives, living for holidays, anything that takes our minds o� everyday realities. And I think for some

Do You Dig It.....As usual I did not achieve all I set out to do last month, if you managed any of my suggestions from last month well done that’s great!Still here is a quick reminderDigging over the beds and adding Nitro chalk, Potash and Blood Fish & Bone.Covering Beds with Black Plastic so they are nice and warm, for an early start in spring!Washing and sterilizing all pots, containers and racking.Also two other jobs are turning the compost in your bin and cleaning/sharpening your tools for the new season. And keep checking that stored fruit, we don’t need one rotten apple spoiling a barrel!I have just ordered my seed cata-logues, its good to sit in a comfy chair and plan the crop rotation of veg beds as well as pots. Stick with what has worked, dump what hasn’t. Try some-thing new and by listing where it likes to grow, when it is best to sow / harvest and store. By keeping a note book each year with the information to hand, I �nd I don’t miss sowing times or plant in the wrong soil, but you all know I have a terrible memory.Short and sweet this month as the garden and us are resting.

God Bless to allPaul Cleasby

Have you ever thought aboutadopting part of the church garden? Claire and I did after the last clean up day. We had been working on the front garden near the bus stop when we decided to adopt it.So far we have cut back several shrubs, planted cyclamen and bulbs. We are currently in the process of clearing and weeding the area. We �nd it very enjoyable watching the area improve and also very relaxing. Why don't you give it a go too!

Sue Benton and Claire Littlejohn

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what’s on inDecemberDecemberwhat’s on inDecemberwhat’s on inwhat’s on inDecemberwhat’s on in

4th Christmas Lunch

7th - river of god

18th - 10.00am Communion Service4.00pm All-age Christmas Celebration with Christingles6.30pm Traditional Carol Service(Seasonal refreshments at the 4pm and 6.30pm services)

Christmas Eve 24th December4.00pm Carols around the Crib(Especially suitable for young children)11.00pm Midnight Communion

Christmas Day 25th December10.00am All-age Christmas Morning Celebration

New year eve party 8.30pm - 1.00am

contents St.george’s magazineSundays at St George’s 2Contacts 2What’s on 3Anthony’s Welcome 4 - 5Editorial 6New Year Eve party 7Calling all 70 percenters 8 - 9Remembrance Sunday 10 -11Book review 11Church Meetings 14 -16A christmas i always remember 17

Barney’s page 18Cap 20Puzzle page 22Recipe 24Gardening 25 Group contacts 27

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Vicar Revd. Anthony Rose 792088CurateRevd. Peter Begley 01702 476500Youth PastorRevd. Peter Hillman 755306ReaderMr. Dave Brown 753238Church WardensMrs. Margaret Rostron 757984Mrs. Anne Nunn 754332Church AdministratorMrs. Denise Marsh 792088o�ce hours Mon - Thurs 9.30-12pmIntercession Prayer RequestMrs. Margaret King 752571Honorary SecretaryMrs. Lynda King 771174

Honorary TreasurerMrs. Irene Lock 750882OrganistMrs. Ina Osborn 793453Magazine EditorsMrs. Marisa Murphy 565464Mrs. Karen Smith 776443Magazine SecretaryMrs. Margaret King 752571Missionary SecretarySuzanne Marshak 755663Fair Trade GoodsKaren HillmanYouth People LeadersDragon Slayers (5-11yrs)Mrs. Jane Rose 792088Under 5’sMrs. Jean Payne 754132

St. George’s Pre-SchoolMon - Fri 9.15 - 12 noonApply at Church hall after 10.00am

St. George’s Parent & Toddlers GroupThursdays 1.00 - 3.00pmJane Rose 792088

RainbowTuesdays 5.00 - 6.00pmKelliesue Je�ery 565461Friday 4.30 - 5.30pmDenise Mechem-White�eld 751766

BrowniesTuesday 4.45 - 6.00pmMrs. D. Longhurst 751766Wednesday 4.15 - 5.45pmMrs. Janice Adams 757619

GuidesWednesday 6.15 - 7.45pmSusie Miller 750362

CubsFriday 6.15pmAlan & Carol Lynes 690976

ScoutsFriday 8.00pmMr. J Payne 754132

Church Home GroupsSee weekly notice sheet

River of God1st Wednesday of the month

Mens Prayer NightLast Thursday of the month

Hall Booking SecretaryJoy Mickleburgh 07808 164724

Wives ClubThursday 8.00pmGloria Logan

Altar GuildMary Bridgeman 792296

New Thundersley Seniors ClubTuesday 2.00 - 4.00pmMavis Fawell 794305Mary Bridgeman 792296

New Thundersley Townswomans Guild1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month2nd and 4th Tuesday of every monthfor more information please Jan Payne 01268 757395

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St. George's Parish Magazine December

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