Roger Johnson's Blog

Evangelism Bulletin 237 – Stuck in the Past?

2012-01-20T17:13:00.000Z

An Old Testament verse I often quote is Isaiah 51 verse 1 which says ‘Look to the rock from which you were hewn and to the quarry from which you were dug’. Different translations render this verse in different ways but the gist of it for me is that our present is shaped by our past. The chapter goes on to remind the Israelites how God had been at work in the lives of their ancestors and would continue that work in the present and future, if they remained faithful.

We are told that Skegness has been urged to change its name because of the negative image associated with its present name. For me that’s unthinkable. Skeggy will always be Skeggy, no matter what they call it in the future. But for the hoteliers whose trade is suffering because of its poor image, it seems a reasonable option.

Kodak, the once renowned, market-leading giant, which was synonymous with all things photographic have now filed for bankruptcy protection. The chief reason is that it failed to take the digital age seriously. They proudly display their once-famous Brownie 127 or Instamatic and despite attempts to bring out cameras in different colours and selling fashion accessories to match (a bit like iPads with their coloured cases), the tide towards digital is unstoppable and they have been left behind.

I remember many years ago in the computer industry how the world’s number 2 manufacturer, DEC, refused to recognise an up-and-coming operating system and, despite having their own brilliant equivalent, their refusal to move with the times cost them dearly.

We hear news that Nottingham Forest are gearing up for life in League 1 by considering the sale of some of their top players (I use the work ‘top’ loosely). For a long time they have been a team with a great future behind them. We could look at institutions like the Post Office and libraries and ask serious questions about their future because of the rapid changes taking place in society and technology.

So – what about the church? The picture accompanying this bulletin depicts a Methodist Church which, in its day, was packed to the seams with worshippers but is now closed. How do we decide in this day of declining church attendance which church buildings to release and which to keep and invest money in for the future? Of course, we are all aware that closing a church building is not the same as closing a church because the faith community still remains – it’s just their meeting place which has become unsustainable.

We have all sat in church buildings during a worship service and asked questions about its appeal to outsiders. What do people think when they cross the threshold of a Victorian building in order to attend a sevice? Do they think they are being forced into a time warp? Do they think that God is a 19th century being who has never really come to terms with the modern age. The hymns that are sung, the language that is used, the furniture people site on and look at all speak about an age gone by.

And yet, cathedrals are experiencing a renaissance. People flock to them as tourists, and some may do the same as pilgrims. We’re off to Budapest soon and will visit the many baroque churches in the city. It’s not the same for a visitor coming to Nottingham or Derby and visiting the warehouse-style buildings occupied by some new-stream churches and yet these are the churches which are growing numerically. The sale of telescopes has increased by 400% since Prof. Brian Cox, the rock star turned scientist, has been presenting his Star Gazing programmes. We still see people driving around in VW Beetles and Mini Coopers, cars which have long-since been replaced by modern equivalents. What a dilemma!

As the verse from Isaiah says, our identity is shaped by the past. But we need to recognise that our future lies firmly in the future which, for most of us, is an unknown. But to God …

Evangelism Bulletin 236 – Life-changing moments

2012-01-13T16:38:00.002Z

It came totally out of the blue.The manager of our training department, Gerry, was on a visit to Nottinghamwhere I worked in the computer industry. He asked for a chat with me and so wesidled off to a vacant office. ‘Would you consider coming to work in thetraining department in Stevenage as a lecturer?’ he asked me. It was one ofthose mind-racing moments where a thousand questions hit my brain cells all atonce.

Although I had attended programmingcourses at the training centre and met some of the lecturers in the past, I hadno experience of lecturing and certainly had never seen myself in that role.So, why Gerry had asked me was amystery. Anyway, to cut a long story short, after visiting Gerry and his wifefor a chat in Stevenage and talking it through, my wife of less than a year andI decided to uproot and live in Biggleswade – a place we only knew throughcomedian’s jokes and tales of people using it as a stop-off for London on theA1.

It didn’t take me long to settleinto the new role. I can remember painstakingly preparing my notes for thefirst week-long programming course I was scheduled to lead, single-handed. Tomy surprise, five minutes into the course, my copious notes were laid on one sideand I was in free-flow, teaching from the heart. I was also amazed at thecourse appraisals which the students filled in at the end of the course. I hadnever seen myself as a lecturer and yet Gerry had clearly seen something in methat was bursting to get out. We joined a Baptist church in Biggleswade and Ilaunched for the first time into a preaching career – mind you, most of thiswas in the dozy village chapels on a sultry summer’s evening where the biggestchallenge was not preaching the gospel, but keeping them awake!

Now, as a Christian, I would liketo tell you that all this fell neatly into my simple perception of how Godworks. I would like to tell you that Gerry was a Christian and was guided bythe Holy Spirit in inviting me to go to Stevenage. The first part is not true.I can recall a conversation over lunch with Gerry where I tried to impress uponhim that the plight of those in the third world was our responsibility in thatthe life-style we live can deprive them of a living wage. He wasn’t convinced.It was over a decade later that a foul-mouthed Bob Geldof proclaimed the samemessage and raised millions through Live Aid and all that followed.

But what I do believe is thatGerry’s visit was the work of God. Completely unknown to us, God is at work inand through our lives and can bring about life-changing moments at the drop ofa hat – and through some of the most unlikely sources.

Last night at Grannie’s Tea Room inCotgrave, Rev. Dr. Robert Foster led us in the first session of a course he hasco-authored entitled ‘I choose to follow you’. This is an introductory courseinto discipleship and week 1 focusses on the account of the calling of Levi,the tax collector, in Mark chapter 2. As always in the gospels, we have onlyscant details but it would appear that as Jesus was passing Levi’s tax booth,Levi dropped everything and experienced a life-changing moment as he followedJesus.

Just like me, as a recently marriedyoung man with all my family and friends in Nottingham, the thought of droppingeverything for a new home in Biggleswade and a career which I had no previousexperience of, Levi had no idea of what he was letting himself in for.

But that leads me to yet anotheraspect of the Christian life – prayer. I know that many people around me bothin my family and among my friends, were praying for me. I had only been aChristian for about a year and had no church upbringing to rely on. It was allnew to me. But I’m sure that life changing moments like this don’t happen bychance. Being a Christian is not about following a set of rules and attending achurch. It’s about being open to the Holy Spirit who is constantly seeking towork in the lives of responsive people. I believe prayer is like the oil in mycar. Without it the engine seizes up. With it the car functions smoothly andreaches its full potential. You may be praying today for someone, not knowingwhat the consequence may be. Take heart – because your prayer may be thecatalyst which brings about a life-changing experience for the person you arepraying for.

#233 Focus

2011-11-25T08:12:00.001Z

Amazingly, Children in Need raised a stunning £26 million in just one night. In spite of the economic crisis the British people have once again shown their immense generosity to needy people. But what is it about Children in Need that causes such an enormous outpouring of generosity and altruism?

Firstly, it is focussed. As the title says, it is about children – and those in need. Throughout the evening, real examples were shown of how the money in past years had been used and made a real difference to its recipients. It was not money being ploughed into a black hole and being gobbled up by administrative costs but it was being directed to those in need in order to – well – make a difference.

Secondly, it was about fun. All the projects which raised money had an element of enjoyment as well as sacrifice. It was also about community – people working together for a common goal. The Greek word for church – ekklesia – means just that – a gathering of people meeting for a common purpose – to worship and serve God.

Thirdly, it is for everyone. There is a stunning array of personalities from all walks of life from pop stars to weather girls to – errr – Terry Wogan. There’s no need to put on religious language or pretend to be holy – just be yourself and get stuck in – without embarrassment.

Interestingly, BBC Radio Nottingham is featuring the large churches in Nottingham all this week – churches like Trent Vineyard, Grace Church, Cornerstone and Talbot Street – all churches with congregations around 1,000 and above. The big news is that they are financially rich. Cornerstone have raised £4 million in the last 4 years and are in the process of redeveloping the former MFI building to make it into their new home. Ironically, this feature coincides with the introduction of the on-street parking charges on Sundays which is hitting the pockets of the members at some of the less well-off city centre churches hard.

Again, these large churches are focussed. Their worship is focussed on one building, not the many as is the case with traditional denominations. Their ethos is focussed primarily on mission – they know what they are about and every member is urged to take an active part. Also, the experience of worship is exciting. Yes it may be too loud and modern for some but it clearly attracts all ages, especially the young.

So, what about us? Are we focussed? Do we ask ourselves the question, ‘what am I really good at?’ Some of us (and I include myself in this) can run around like headless chickens attempting to do many things – some of which are not within our primary skill set. How much more fulfilled we would be if we simply focussed on our true calling. The same is true of some churches – they have loads of activities – some overlapping with or duplicating other activities. Would it not be better to ‘do less and do it well’? People are not attracted to things because they are local – they are attracted to things because they are good. So why don’t we resolve to concentrate on excellence rather than on volume? Let’s get focussed!

#232 – Like Little Children

2011-11-09T17:33:00.002Z

Last Sunday I was preaching in alocal church and asked one of the worship leaders to conduct the start of theservice, including the children’s address. At the start of this address hewalked boldly towards the front of the church brandishing a large length ofrope. I became uneasy, not least because I had yet to preach. Anyway, he askedfor volunteers from the children to help him with his illustration. At once aflurry of hands went up and a host of children joined him at the front of thechurch for a tug of war.

Now the worship leader is a highlyexperienced person when it comes to leading children and his presence at thefront was enough to stimulate such an eager reaction. But it made me think howdifferent it would have been if the church was only full of adults. Would therestill have been an eager response to his appeal for volunteers? I doubt it.

So why is it that adults fail toshow the excitement and eagerness of children? What have we lost? Jesus saidthat we should become like little children in order to enter the Kingdom ofHeaven (Matthew 18:2).

I suppose one reason for this lackof childlike sparkle is that life has dealt us some sobering blows. Thepremature loss of a loved one, a sudden illness, a broken relationship, failure,unemployment or bankruptcy – any of these can diminish the sense of ‘child’within and rob us of our innocence.

Another reason is that when we takeon greater responsibilities, pressures mount up. We make excuses like ‘Ihaven’t got time for this or that’. What we really mean is that we choose notto have time for this or that. We speed through life without noticing thebeauty of nature, the smile of a person in the street and the many acts ofkindness which are directed towards us. Life’s many blessings can go unnoticedand the world may seem a more hostile place than it really is.

Children, on the other hand, maketime. They can sit and play for hours with toys or friends in a world ofdreams. Everything that comes their way carries a sense of wonder and newness.Each situation is full of possibilities and the concept of failure never enterstheir minds.

So how can we rediscover our innerchild?

The first step, and I believe oneof the most important, is to deal with our anxieties. Jesus teaches on a numberof occasions that worry should be shunned - see Matthew 6:25 for instance.Anxiety can eat into our souls like maggots into a piece of meat. We need tomake a conscience decision to repel anxiety as soon as it rears its head.

Secondly, we need to make time –time for people, time for hobbies, time for relaxation, time for learning –time to simply stop and observe what’s around us. Try walking around your homefor 10 minutes and looking at the furniture, the photographs, the souvenirs youhave collected – let their memories seep into your heart and relive the joys.Give thanks for all you have and all you are.

But finally, develop rhythm in yourlife. My job is anything but rhythmical and I need to discipline myself to maketime for things that matter. It’s so easy to be stampeded from one job to thenext and be driven by the ‘to-do list’. No – every job must be given the timeit needs, even if the next one slips down the priority list. A job well donebrings satisfaction and makes the next job more worthwhile.

So, as we approach Advent, will wesimply cascade through the month worrying about Christmas shopping and partiesor will we stop and gaze with childlike awe and wonder at what God has done forus in Christ? Will we put ourselves into the scene in Bethlehem and imagine weare one of the characters – experiencing the excitement and tension of theoccasion? Will we experience the miracle of ‘God made man’ or simply turn thepage of the calendar into 2012?

Evangelism Bulletin 231 – Power to the People

2011-11-02T14:30:00.002Z

So a group of anti-capitalism protestors with a less than clear message pitch their tents and sleep outside (or some of them do as the police’s thermal imaging cameras have shown), bring St. Paul’s Cathedral to a halt, trigger the resignation of two of its senior staff and leave the Church of England in a position of acute embarrassment because of its less than decisive response to the issues being raised. Even now I wonder whether the Archbishop of Canterbury who advocates the introduction of the Tobin Tax (a tax on currency transactions) and the Bishop of London who has been ‘flown’ in to run St. Paul’s in the wake of these resignations, are actually singing from the same hymn sheet.

I say this, not to add to the plight of the Church of England with whom I have some sympathy, but to demonstrate that even the small, insignificant voices of the general public can, in fact, have world-changing consequences – and why not? Decades ago, the sight of Robert Lindsay dressing up as Citizen Smith and raising his revolutionary fist in the air with the cry of ‘power to the people’ was seen by many as an out dated and hopeless figure. But, is ‘people power’ seeing a resurgence?

The Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou has secured the unanimous backing of his cabinet for a referendum on the eurozone debt rescue plan, leaving other European heads of state in fits of fury after they negotiated long and hard to secure a bail-out package which is now in jeopardy. But why shouldn’t the people of Greece have their say? Why should the financial gurus tell the Greek people what hardships they should face in the future when they, along with many other highly paid executives, see their salaries increase by around 50%?

This all begs the questions, ‘have the common people got it right?’ Can we leave the big questions in the hands of so-called experts any longer? Has it all come home to roost for the financial institutions who plunged us into this crisis in the first place. Has the great institution of the Church of England found itself unable to answer the question ‘what would Jesus do?’ for fear of losing its financial backing from the very people being criticised by the motley bunch of protesters camped on its doorstep? Is the axe hanging over the great institutions which have underpinned so much of society for so long?

Maybe we are seeing something for which Christian people should rejoice. Perhaps this is a sign that God has had enough and his Spirit is sweeping across the globe in an unprecedented way. Didn’t Joel prophecy that God would ‘pour out his Spirit on all flesh’, even the lowest of the low? Is this the moment when the Spirit fans the flame into an inferno? I remember that 2,000 years ago the religious and political establishment were rocked by an uneducated, Galilean peasant who eventually met his fate on a cross. However, the movement he founded, which has little to do with the erection and maintenance of large buildings in big cities, has grown ever since in the hearts of his followers – people upon whom the Spirit has been poured out as prophesied.

The Greek debt crisis will no doubt rumble on for some weeks now with the world’s financial markets cascading out of control and the politicians losing sleep. They will be asking themselves if it is right to use their taxpayers’ money to bail out a country which has consistently overspent. But with Ireland, Portugal, Spain and now Italy perilously close to melt-down, why don’t they simply give in and cancel everybody’s debt and be done with it? After all, that’s what Jesus did! (Isaiah 53:6, Luke 15:22-24, 1 Corinthians 6:20)

As the staff of St. Paul’s and the European leaders try and dig themselves out of these messes, I am reminded of the parable which Jesus told of a rich man who sat in his luxurious house, seemingly oblivious to the plight of the beggar at his gate (Luke 16:19-31). The point of this parable is that in God’s Kingdom roles will be reversed. It was the poor beggar who was favoured by God while the rich man faced eternal torment, pleading for the poor beggar to bring him relief.

It seems to me that the staff of St. Paul’s have missed an amazing evangelistic opportunity when they could have presented the true message of the gospel, not only to the protesters outside, but to the world’s media.

Evangelism Bulletin 230 – Leaders and Dictators

2011-11-02T14:28:00.003Z

It is certainly trying times for those in leadership positions,especially where the country is undergoing considerable change. The ‘ArabSpring’ has brought rejoicing all over the world as we have seen formerdictatorships gradually displaced by democratic governments. In some situationslike Tunisia and Egypt, the transition has been relatively peaceful. But sadlyin Syria, and just recent in Libya, many lives have been lost as dictatorialleaders desperately try to cling to power.

So, when does a leader become adictator? Although seen as eccentric, Moammar Gadhafi was courtedby world leaders like Tony Blair in the hope that he would shake off hiseccentricity and conform to the standards of other national leaders. Sadly TonyBlair’s faith in the redemption of human nature was misplaced in this case andthe awful bloodshed of recent weeks has been splashed endlessly over our TVscreens. The sorry story culminated in the death of the man himself.

But, what is it in our human nature which can tip aleader over the edge into dictatorship? Looking back to the time of Jesus, weremember that King Herod was paranoid about the report from the wise men that anew king had been born. This resulted in the slaughter of innocent children inthe vain hope that this new king would be eradicated before taking power awayfrom him. And yet, centuries earlier, I think of Moses who wearily led theIsraelites through the wilderness for forty years, enduring their groaning, criticismand lack of faith and then, when standing on the threshold of the ‘PromisedLand’ was told by God that his time was up. Can you imagine what he must havefelt like after all that hard work, to look enviously on the lush meadows to betold he wasn’t to enter? Can you imagine how hard it must have been for him topass on the baton to Joshua whom God had raised up to succeed him?

Elijah no doubt felt the same. We read in 1 Kings 19how his faith abandoned him after the contest against the prophets of Baal,when hotly pursued by Queen Jezebel. He cowered in the cave, sulking in hisself-righteousness and sense of abandonment and watched as the elements ragedoutside but God was nowhere to be seen. Then, in a moment of awesome divinepower, a gentle whisper conveyed the voice of God to this depressed leader. Iwonder how much of his depression was triggered by the fact that Elisha waswaiting in the wings to succeed him.

One of the facts of life for me asan Evangelism Enabler is that I am employed to do myself out of a job. WhereverI go, I seek to enable others to pick up the baton and take over the tasks Ihave trained them for. It doesn’t bother me in that wherever I go, there isalways more that can be done – the supply of work will never dry up. But thereis still the nervousness about the ability of others to take over. Theperfectionist in me wonders whether they will come up to the mark. We all knowthe saying, ‘if you want something doing well, do it yourself’. But then Ithink back to when I started out.

I sometimes look back at thesermons I have preached over the years. I can still remember the first sermon Iever preached and can honestly say how bad it was. What must the congregationhave thought? On the other hand it was also the most important because itallowed me to put my foot on the first rung of the ladder. John Wesley,apparently, would burn his sermons every seven years. Looking back on some of mine,I can see why he did that!

Another facet of good leadership isthe willingness to be outshone. I am currently leading, along with a team offour, a new course called Compass. We rotate the leadership week by week. Inpreparation for last week’s session I looked at the material and thought howhard it was to lead. Fortunately another team member was scheduled to lead thatnight and she did it brilliantly – far better than I could have imagined myselfleading it. Sadly, some leaders feel threatened if they are not the best ateverything they do. Good teamwork relies on each team member valuing the uniquecontribution made by the other team members.

But leaders come and leaders go. Itseems to me that we differentiate leaders from dictators by their ability, orlack of it, to let go of the reins and allow new leaders to take their place.As a sarcastic friend of mine once said, ‘the graveyards are full ofindispensible people’. May I not grow so possessive of my role that I find ithard to let go when the time comes. If only Moammar Gadhafi had adoptedthe same approach, just think how many lives would have been spared.

Evangelism Bulletin 229 – Selling Yesterday’s Memories

2011-10-08T21:11:00.001+01:00

The past few months have been a trying time for me and my family as we have watched my mother gradually lose her capacity to live independently. Yes, she’s got all her faculties and has many years left but frailty has set in to such an extent that she now needs permanent care. As you can imagine, the burden has fallen to us to wind up her home which she has occupied for nearly 15 years and to decide what to do with all her belongings, many of which are steeped in treasured memories but are of no value to anyone but us. The quirky tea pot, the photo album of holidays in the sun, the Valentine’s card from her late husband – all priceless treasures which have no home to go to now – who would want to buy them?

It’s ironic that this bulletin coincides with the departure of both the manager and chairman from Nottingham Forest. When the dust has settled all that might be left for this club will be yesterday’s memories. A team that, in days gone by, were the champions of Europe and were feared by the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United are now reduced to an unsellable commodity. Who would want to buy yesterday’s memories?

Having spent last night at the Nottingham Royal Centre watching the Soweto Gospel Choir and seeing the passion and energy which they invest in their performance, I reflected upon the churches I attend and lead worship in week by week. Where is the passion and energy? Are we living on yesterday’s memories?

Now I’ve heard all the arguments about tradition and how we mustn’t throw the baby out with the bath water. Yes, I know that the Wesley brothers started a movement which is still respected and admired by Christians across the globe but I have to ask myself how much of what we do today is based on yesterday’s memories.

We need to re-invent ourselves.

The passion and energy which fuelled the 18^th century revival was God’s gift to that generation but we are not that generation any longer. Many Methodists across the country have been praying for revival. Revival is what it says on the tin – coming back to life – being re-born. Resting on the laurels of yesterday’s memories is nothing more than nostalgia.

We live in a country where society’s attitudes towards religion have radically altered in recent years. Confronted by the threat of terrorism from religious fanatics, the growing influence of other faiths in Britain, the suspicion of those in authority (including the Church) and the belief that truth is relative, many are now questioning the place of the Church within society and are reluctant to join something which they see as yesterday’s memory.

As I seek to introduce new ways of worshipping in the churches, I can feel the tension from some sectors who still yearn for the formula with which they grew up – the hymn-prayer sandwich, the predictability, the preacher-focussed service, the organ, the silent reverence. I understand all of this but I also looked at the glazed look on the faces of the children who feel they have stepped back in time by coming into church. The old ways of ‘doing church’ still have appeal - but to whom?

The good news is that we are presented with an unprecedented opportunity to be re-born. The values which underpinned the 18^th century revival are as relevant today as they ever were. The manner in which we ‘do church’ and present the gospel are different. We must guard against the subtle temptation of thinking that what worked well in the past will still work well today.

The Soweto Gospel Choir gave me hope and inspiration. As the audience rapturously applauded their final song and provoked a number of encores, what we were left with was the sense that God is present in a powerful way today. The multi-coloured dresses, the highly energetic dancing, the exuberant singing - all pointed to an inner conviction that Jesus is Lord.

This is our only hope today.

Evangelism Bulletin 228 – Culture of Blame and Criticism

2011-09-20T11:27:00.009+01:00

Have you noticed the degree to which blame and criticism have entered the bloodstream of our nation? Teachers are worried about disciplining the children for fear of reprisals from parents, the police are fearful of stamping down too strongly on crime for fear of sparking off riots – and so we could cite examples of unrest between ethnic and religious groups, young and old, traditionalists and modernists – the list is endless.

How many of the disputes which go on in churches are down to a lack of appreciation for another person’s point of view of tastes? How many situations in the world lead to violence because of ignorance or intolerance of people who are different from themselves?

I read the words on my daughter’s fridge magnet which said…

Before you criticise someone

Try walking in their shoes for a mile.

Then you will be a mile further away –

And you will have an extra set of shoes!

Joking apart, there’s some wisdom in these words. We are quick to pin the blame for the country’s economic woes upon Presidents, Prime Ministers and Chancellors but would we do any better in their position - and how much of it is down to the ‘greed culture’ which pervades our nations? Some people criticised the police in London for standing idly by as rioters torched public buildings and stoned the police and their cars. Would you like to be a policeman in those situations? We are scarcely into the new football season and the fans of some football clubs are baying for the blood of their managers as the team’s form dips (mentioning no names, of course!).

The Bible has some important words for us on this topic.

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8)

It is so easy for our human nature to draw the wrong conclusion about other people simply because they upset our thinking or peace of mind. Perhaps a closer look at their motives and a deeper understanding of the problems they are seeking to solve may reveal that they are acting out of real compassion and for the benefit of many. Perhaps their motives are true, noble, pure and praiseworthy – but we haven’t seen things from their point of view – and are too quick to blame or criticise.

I love the words from James who wrote – “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:17).

You can always tell when a person is acting in a godly way by comparing their actions to these words. You can also substitute the name ‘Jesus’ for the word ‘Wisdom’ – “Jesus is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere”.

I’ll leave you with some words from Dorothy Law Nolte …

If a child lives with criticism

He learns to condemn.

If a child lives with hostility

He learns to fight.

If a child lives with ridicule

He learns to be shy.

If a child lives with praise

He learns to appreciate.

If a child lives with approval

He learns to like himself.

If a child lives with acceptance and friendship

He learns to find love in the world.

An extract from ‘Children learn what they live’

Evangelism Bulletin 227 – Old-style Messy Church

2011-09-19T08:57:00.003+01:00

As we read the pages of the New Testament, do we stop and think what the early church was actually like? Think about the opening verses of Acts 13 where Saul and Barnabas were chosen to go out on mission. Can you imagine what it must have been like to find the right people for a job that had never been done before and had a high risk of failure?

Full-Time Outreach Worker
Antioch Christian Fellowship

We are a vibrant, charismatic-evangelical fellowship with a passion for spreading the gospel in and around the eastern-Mediterranean region. We are looking for a young, spirit-filled person to take the Christian message to those who have yet to hear about it. Your job will be to create new church communities in the towns and villages, select and train local leaders and teach the faith.

Salary : Nothing (OTE) – depending on experience
Pension : You must be joking
Working Hours : 24/7
Company Car : In your dreams
Secretarial Provision : LOL
Accommodation : Make your own tent
Contract Period : 1 year

The successful applicant must be qualified to degree-level Christian Theology (Jewish and non-Jewish flavour), a good communicator and a team worker. Two references must be provided, one from your previous employer.

For an application form email office@antioch-fellowship.org

Well, after 3 months in the Antioch Recorder and in the shops, post offices and libraries of the surrounding area the church met together for prayer as follows:-

The Church : “Lord, we have advertised as requested but the only applicants are Saul of Tarsus, an autocrat and control-freak and Barnabas who wouldn’t say ‘boo’ to a goose and has no qualifications.”
The Lord : “They’ll do.”
The Church : “But Lord, for all their faults, they are our best people. We won’t survive without them.”
The Lord : “Oh yes you will.”
The Church : “But Lord, they will never be able to work together – they are so different. And Saul couldn’t provide a reference. His previous employer wouldn’t play ball. And when he preaches, no one can make head nor tail of what he’s on about.”
The Lord : “Blow this for a lark. If I say ‘send them’, send them!”

And so, Saul and Barnabas were sent out with much prayer and rejoicing. New leaders emerged in the Antioch Fellowship and their worked thrived. As for Saul, he planted lots of churches, appointed new leaders, wrote lots of letters, changed his name, argued with head office, had a bust up with Barnabas, and upset loads of people in the process.

Do you ever wonder why God chose the leaders you have in your church? If only everyone was made in our image and thought the way we thought! Instead the church is full of diverse people who, somehow, fulfil their calling and serve the purposes of the kingdom. So, if you thought ‘Messy Church’ was a recent invention (sorry Lucy), then look back at the pages of the New Testament and you’ll find it originated right there. In fact if you look at the Bible overall you’ll find even worse…

Noah was a drunkard, Moses a stuttering ex-murderer, Samson had a penchant for the girls, Jeremiah was hardly out of nappies, Elijah was a manic depressive, John the Baptist had no dress-sense and lacked social graces, John Mark had cold feet, Simon Peter had foot and mouth disease (he opened his mouth and put his foot in it) and Lazarus was – errr - dead. And yet …

So with all these tales of woe, all I can say is ‘there’s hope for me yet!’

Video on Evangelism

2011-09-16T21:16:00.000+01:00

Video on Prayer

2011-09-16T20:20:00.000+01:00

Evangelism Bulletin 212 – Lent – a time for FOCUS

2011-03-18T10:10:00.003Z

As we are now into Lent and are hopefully keeping to our commitment to give up whatever it is we have agreed to give up, we are presented with an opportunity to reflect upon the meaning, purpose and direction of our lives. Jesus spent forty days in the desert without food, not for dietary reasons, but in order for him to focus clearly on what it is that his life and ministry should be about from that moment on. We are told he was ‘tempted by Satan’ and the gospels depict three aspects of temptation which he faced. I don’t believe that Jesus was taunted by a comic figure with horns and a tail. I believe Jesus faced what we all face – the battle between doing, on one hand, what comes naturally (humanly speaking) and on the other hand, what comes through obedience to God (life in the Spirit).

For me this Lent is bolstered by using a number of resources. Firstly the excellent daily readings from the Methodist Church ‘A Word in Time’ which are linked to the Methodist Prayer Handbook. At a click of a button my computer plays me the scripture reading and accompanying reflection. Also I have downloaded the entire Bible in MP3 format (I use the Audio Treasure web site so that I can sit and listen to large chunks of the Bible being read to me as part of my endeavour to read the entire Bible in a year). All of this is on top of my use of the Celtic Daily Prayers from the Northumbria Community.

I read today from Acts 26:16-18 which recounts the conversion of St. Paul as Jesus says to him …

‘Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen and will see of me. I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’

Here Jesus does not engage in anything other than, ‘this is what you have to do - go and do it – and I will help you’. Interestingly Jesus reminds Paul of his own experience in the desert in the words ‘and turn them from … the power of Satan to God’. Yes, Paul remained a tent-maker but this was subservient to his main calling as apostle to the gentiles.

When we think about the churches to which we belong, how often do we ask questions which focus our minds on their purpose? Do we see church as something which is always there and something to which we go each Sunday, or do we ask questions about its meaning and purpose in the wider world? Notice that Paul was not asked to ‘go and plant churches’ although that’s what he did as part of his mission. Our churches are there primarily to fulfil God’s mission in the world around them. That means that they are there for God and for the community, as well as for us. A telling question to ponder this Lent is, ‘If your church were to close tomorrow, would the community notice?’ In other words is your church making a Christian impact upon the community which would cause a clamour if it was withdrawn? Of course, we must not be hoodwinked into thinking that serving the community is all we are about – that would make us no more than a branch of Social Services. Our primary focus is upon God and the gospel – and then, how to transform our communities through God’s love.

As I look at the pile of papers on my desk I am often tempted to sweep them all aside and start with an empty desk. I don’t think this is an unhealthy feeling because an untidy desk is a sign of lack of focus. However, those papers are all there for a purpose. The trick is in constantly keeping in focus those things which are at the heart of who I am and what I am here to do. In every task it’s good to ask yourself, ‘how can I do this task more simply to the glory of God?’

I love the words from Jeremiah 6:16…

This is what the LORD says:
“Stand at the crossroads and look;
ask for the ancient paths,
ask where the good way is, and walk in it,
and you will find rest for your souls.’

A day out in Southwell

2011-03-12T17:06:00.001Z

Nottingham university lake

2011-02-24T15:36:00.002Z

Nottingham university lake in the autumn

Paris

2011-02-24T15:32:00.002Z

Paris to Lyon train - December 2010. Being foreigners we didn't know we were in the wrong seats.

Light Night in Nottingham

2011-02-23T10:36:00.000Z

Nottingham town centre hosted a number of attractions, some better than others. The most popular ones were the big wheel and this ukele group.

Inham Nook Cafe Church

2011-02-21T14:44:00.003Z

Had a great afternoon at Inham Nook Cafe Church leading on the theme of 'Kairos' - a God-given moment of opportunity. Louise, Carole and Bryan from Grannie's came to help.

Nottingham University

2010-10-10T18:52:00.005+01:00

A beautiful afternoon stroll at Nottingham University. It was really warm in the sun and we were able to sit outside and drink tea beside the lake.

Goose Fair

2010-10-07T22:17:00.000+01:00

Went to Goose Fair today and saw Frances Finn (BBC Radio Nottingham) on the Magic Mouse. It was a beautiful day weatherwise.

Measham Quiet Garden

2010-10-01T09:56:00.001+01:00

Spent a lovely day at the Measham Quiet Garden. This has become the home for the Methodists in Measham since their chapel closed in 2009. What a wonderful place to go for prayer and meditation.

Lincoln Day Trip

2010-09-01T17:32:00.000+01:00

Had a great day out in Lincoln. Visited the cathedral and browsed the second hand book shops. It's nice to sit on the train and read.

Bratislava Jan 5th 2010

2010-01-05T21:05:00.003Z

Andrew very kindly took the day off and drove us to the airport at Bratislava. The journey was uneventful but there was an accident on the Vienna-bound carriageway which had caused closure while they hauled a bus out of the ditch beside the motorway.

We arrived slightly early so went for a drink at the local shopping mall. Andrew and Alex both had a disgusting hot chocolate which resembled mud. Margaret and I were more conventional Margaret had an Earl Gray and I had a peppermint tea..Outside the temperature was below freezing and freezing rain made the pavements slippery.

We then did battle with the Ryanair check-in procedure. Having purchased an on-line check in we still had to queue with everyone else to check our cases in. Margaret was overweight by .6 Kg but they didn’t comment. We had a similar wait upstairs at the departure lounge. Whilst in the departure lounge we had a text from Andrew notifying us that Manchester and Liverpool airports are both closed due to the snow. Andrew hung around at the airport until we had boarded and were sure to take off.

Once on board the plane we seemed to wait ages while they de-iced the wings and awaited clearance to take off. Eventually we took off 40 minutes late, ascended through thick cloud and levelled off above the clouds in bright sunshine.

Half an hour into the flight the seat belt light came on again with an announcement from the cabin crew to remain seated with seat belts fastened. Two minutes later all was clear. We then saw the snow-covered mountains of Austria to our right as the clouds cleared. Even the lowlands were covered as we continued over Germany.

An hour into the flight the stewardess announced over the loud speaker the sale of Ryanair cigarette substitutes. They provide the tobacco and nicotine taste but without the smoke. I wonder if they will start to sell baked bean substitutes with the taste of sauce but with no after-affects?

Finally arrived at Birmingham at 3:20pm to be greeted by two inches of slushy snow. A train journey took us home via Birmingham New Street.

Homecoming

2010-01-05T06:50:00.005Z

We rounded off our visit to Vienna by treating Andrew and Alex to a traditional Austrian meal - curry at the Tandoor Restaurant on Martinstrasse. We've had a most enjoyable stay and taken in many of our favourite haunts over the new year period.

I checked on the Birmingham Airport arrivals page to ensure that our plane has a fighting chance of touching down later today and all looks good. Flights from Düsseldorf are arriving half an hour early. The weather here is clear with yesterday's sprinkling of snow completely gone.

So all that remains is a drive to Bratislava and doing battles with the Ryanair scales in the hope that we comply with the 15Kg limit. On the way out Margaret's case was slightly over but we escaped prosecution. Then it's back to work, picking up the backlog after the Christmas festivities.

Danube Tower and St. Peter's Church

2010-01-03T20:55:00.010Z

The day started with great promise with the sun shining. We took the UBahn to VIC (Vienna International Centre) and then walked past the UN complex towards the tower. It looked as though we would enjoy good views of Vienna.

When we got to the top of the tower (175 metres) the weather began to change. Snow began to fall and clouds descended upon Kahlenberg. The viewing gallery was windy and cold but I took a few photos in different directions from the tower.

This photo shows the view to the south overlooking the United Nations complex where our son, Andrew, works at present. He has just returned from an assignment in Nairobi, during which he managed to spend a day in the Masai Mara on safari.

Then we went to Schwedenplatz and walked to Zanoni and Zanoni for a welcome meal and drink. from there we went to Stephansdom and then on to St. Peter's Church, one of the most ornate in Vienna, where we spent some time in prayerful reflection as well as admiring the interior. In contrast to Stephansdom, which is packed out with tourists clicking cameras, this church provides a more worshipful atmosphere.

From St. Peter's church we walked down the beautifully decorated Graben. The fine but cold evening offered us the opportunity to take a number of photos of this beautiful street.

Club Danube

2010-01-01T21:32:00.002Z

To round off the day we went to Club Danube in the 16th district for 2 hours of badminton with some of Andrfew's friends. despite a swollen knee and the remnants of an Achilles problem I came through the 2 hours well and won some games. In comparison to David Lloyd, Club Vienna is dark and foreboding and not a place for socialising.

Kahlenberg

2010-01-01T15:42:00.014Z

Our trip to kahlenberg started with much promise. We took the tram to Grinzing in bright sunshine. As we climbed the hills on the bus the mist set in and remained with us all day. We decided to continue to Leopoldsberg for some scenic shots but after a short time went back to Kahlenberg for a drink.

Leopoldsberg has a neglected feel about it. Its only church and restaurant are both unused. The only attraction is the scenery overlooking the Danube which on a clear day provides to best shots from the north of Vienna.

The people of Vienna take new year very seriously and let off fireworks at every opportunity and in the most unlikely of places. Leopoldsberg was littered with spent packets and bottles, some broken. It took the edge off my impressions of Vienna being a clean and tidy city.

Kahlenberg itself has the one cafe and is often crowded. It is vastly overpriced and has a poor selection of food. The drinks come in paper cartons which is poor considering it is more expensive than city centre cafes. The church stands dominant in the main square overlooking the small village. How it manages to fill its pews is beyond me.

The bus journey took us back to Heiligenstadt and the cold was setting in as the darkness crept upon us. Heiligenstadt was lacking in atmosphere as usual which belies its name. When we arrived at Spittelau, the tower was shrouded in mist and we lazily rested on the UBahn back to the flat.

The beauty of nature

2009-08-06T14:00:00.004+01:00

Even in our humble garden, the beauty of nature is there for all to see. Click on the picture for a full-sized view.

The Seaside comes to Nottingham

2009-07-30T13:50:00.004+01:00

If you can't get away to the seaside for a day, then let the seaside come to you. They have created a seaside in the Market Square. There's a beach, swimming pool, helter-skelter, carousel and lots of eating places. I think they've done a rather good job, all in all.

It's not a place I would choose to eat at but they got into the spirit of the occasion well. I've never seen so many folks gathering on the Market Square without a fight breaking out.
Can you imaging people riding on the buses of Nottingham carrying their buckets and spades and telling people they are going to the beach?

I thought there was an irony about this shot. Was the ambulance was there to bring the sick and wounded or to carry away those who had been healed?

A day out in Skeggy

2009-07-28T19:00:00.000+01:00

There's nothing like a good sunny day in Skeggy to cheer the spirit and put colour back in your cheeks.

This day couldn't have been hotter. We were really pleased that back here in Nottingham it was tippling it down nearly all day. As for us - not a drop of rain. We particularly enjoyed the putting green. Both of us had a hole in 1.

I can't imagine going without fish and chips.
The reflection of the table made an interesting shot.
No, we didn't go on this ride - not after fish and chips!
Reflecting on wind power. Click on photos for a larger shot.

Littleover Methodist Church

2009-07-02T11:04:00.003+01:00

Littleover Methodist Church recently completed their redevelopment scheme and here is the view of the newly designed church. There are also many other rooms and a cafe area equally as well designed.

Nottingham Transport Heritage Centre

2009-06-30T08:53:00.003+01:00

Great Nottinghamshire Bike Ride

2009-06-22T09:07:00.016+01:00

Here we are at around the half-way point in Stoke Bardolf at the Ferry Boat Inn.

And then at the end of the ride, relaxing with a smoothie.

Here we are about to cross the finishing line.

A Grand Day Out - in Matlock

2009-06-14T06:55:00.012+01:00

We (I to be precise) decided to jump on a train and head for the hills. The black and white photo was taken at Nottingham Midland Station as we waited for the train.

The weather was far better than predicted so we had a great time. We jumped off at Matlock Bath, had a regulation cappuccino and then walked over High Tor to Matlock. High up on the hills, we were presented with some stunning views of Matlock Bath. I spotted a buzzard flying in the valley below and we crept to the side of the cliff (sheer drop) to admire the views.

Once we got to Matlock itself, we went straight to the Fish Bar where we tucked into fish and chips (Margaret) and Steak and Kidney pudding (me - it's my favoutite).

We sat in the park watching the skateboarders and tennis players (not exactly Andy Murray standard) and then indulged in a home made 99.

Staff Retreat

2009-06-12T06:32:00.003+01:00

We had a great staff retreat day on Monday last. 11 of us went on board this narrow boat at Sileby and meandered along the river on a leisurely day of relaxation and fellowship.

Life and Death

2009-06-02T20:22:00.011+01:00

Life is full of opposites. Here we have a tree which has died and has fallen into the Grantham canal. But the coots don't mind the fact that it has died, they make the most of it and build their nest in the shade of one of its branches (click on the picture and it will appear full-sized).

This reminds me of the death and resurrection of Jesus. His death on the 'tree' (if I may refer to the cross in this way) may seem like a tragic loss but it actually brings life to all. 'By his wounds we are healed', say the prophet Isaiah and it's true - his dying brings us to life spiritually because we are freed from all that separates us from the love of God.

I'm sure these coots don't have a theology degree but they are wise enough to make this dead tree a place of new life.

I took this photo as I cycled to Cotgrave to a business appointment in the beautiful sunshine which we have all enjoyed recently.

Enjoy it while you can

2009-06-02T11:35:00.006+01:00

As I look out of the window today and reflect upon the beautiful sunshine and colourful garden outside, I only wish I could be out there instead of in here working away.

Do we appreciate the beauty of what is all around us or do we focus too much on the mundane and trivial? Is the credit crunch weighing us down? Are we still fuming over MP's expenses? Or do we take time to sit still and appreciate the beauty of life all around us. Why not take 10 minutes out of your day today to walk around your garden and really look at its beauty - or to sit on a park bench and watch people as they pass by.

To discover the reality of God in the world takes a determined effort of listening and watching - only we need to use our spiritual ears and eyes and ask God's Spirit to reveal to us His truths.

A friend was recently diagnosed with cancer and said, "you never know what's around the corner". True - but the only reality is the here and now - enjoy it!

Morning in Bulwell

2009-05-30T17:00:00.002+01:00

It was a sunny Saturday morning so we thought we would take the tram over to Bulwell. It's not a place we have been to in order to look around. There is a quaint little market and a nice cheap cafe in the alleyway behind.

Watson Fothergill

2009-05-30T16:00:00.001+01:00

Watson Fothergill is one of the leading architects in Nottingham and many of his designs can be seen dotted around the city. This one is at the bottom of King Street.

Easter Arrangement 2009

2009-04-16T16:43:00.005+01:00

This is our Easter Arrangement. All items are taken from our garden.

West Bridgford Photo Marathon 2008

2008-09-27T19:35:00.005+01:00

The first West Bridgford Photo Marathon took place on Saturday September 27th. It started off from the Friary Church and people had 4 hours to take 9 photos. Dominic Heale (pictured with me) started the event.

The event was well received and 115 people entered the competition. The themes were:-

Close Encounter
Patterns
Living Water
Something New
Young at Heart
Together
Peace and Quiet
Beauty
Hope in West Bridgford

The winning entries can be seen here

Hope 08 Celebration in Nottingham

2008-08-30T19:25:00.000+01:00

On September 30th, the churches of Nottingham came together for a Hope 08 celebration service where the Bishop of Nottingham, Tony Porter, preached. In the afternoon, there were stage acts to entertain the rain-soaked crowds.
Paul Field is performing some of his songs from CARGO and other albums.

Blades closes

2008-08-29T19:15:00.000+01:00

It was with some sadness that we saw Blades close. After around 2 years of service the Trent Boulevard community, this tasteful cafe finally had to close amidst increasing losses.

Little Venice and Camden Market

2008-07-22T17:22:00.007+01:00

I saw Little Venice in a London guide book but never knew that to the north of Regents Park and London Zoo was a waterway with canal trips.

Take the Bakerloo line to Warwick Avenue and then walk a short distance to the canal. There are two main canal trip companies to choose from and both are similar.

Camden Market is bustling with a mass of stalls and many eating places with foods from all over the world.

London

2008-07-22T17:15:00.005+01:00

On the south bank of the Thames next to the London Eye is the Dali Exhibition. Just outside is the bronze clock statue in Dali's unique style.

When I first saw the London Eye being erected, I felt it would detract from the London landscape. However, it has become a natural and very popular part of the scene, even though it is right opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, probably the most famous buildings in London.

St. Pancras

2008-07-22T16:55:00.007+01:00

London is a place I often visited as a youth or later on during business trips. In those days, St. Pancras was the mainline station serving the Midlands and the North. Today it has been totally re-designed and modernised.

It is now an international station granting direct links between the Midlands and the North with Paris and Brussels via Eurostar. The station itself is completely different with a massive arcade of shops and cafés along with the Eurostar booking office.

Travel is about partings and reunions. They can be emotional occasions as families say 'good-bye' or greet each other after a time apart. Memories of loved-ones linger as the train pulls away and hearts start to race at the prospect of meeting up again.

For those who wish to travel to the Continent, time and discomfort have been greatly reduced. You can hop off the train from Nottingham and hop straight onto the express to Paris and be whisked away in a couple of hours into the heart of Europe. The trains look similar to the British ones but travel significantly faster. There is a comfortable cafe-louge area with internet access and posh waiter-service.

Christian Pat and his Charismatic Cat

2008-06-22T17:17:00.003+01:00

Vintage Volvo

2008-06-22T17:00:00.003+01:00

Now that's what I call a car. At Wheatcroft's Garden Centre today, I saw this and had to take a photo. It has style and is so well preserved.

Tea for Ability

2008-06-22T16:54:00.003+01:00

On Friday 20th June, Holme Lodge organised the Tea for Ability day at Blades Coffee Shop in Lady Bay, West Bridgford, Nottingham. Blades donated 20% of their takings to the Leonard Cheshire Foundation.

Andy and Sue's leaving

2008-06-05T17:04:00.000+01:00

Andy and Sue Willets left to take up their new ministry in Burton on Trent. As they had been such faithful supporters of the Badminton Club, there was only one way to mark the occasion - the Golden Shuttlecock Award.

Retreat at Hothorpe

2008-06-01T17:08:00.000+01:00

Our annual DEE Retreat took place in early June at Hothorpe Hall. Graham Jones who is a National Rural Officer for the Arthur Rank Centre spoke about Rural Mission. Chris Stoddard of the RUN Network also spoke about evangelism in the contemporary culture.

Tenerife - Shots from the plane

2008-04-20T18:18:00.013+01:00

We flew into Tenerife on April 1st. This is a view of Mount Teidi from the plane as we flew south towards the airport.

As we passed the west coast we saw what we thought was Riu Arecas from the air.

On the flight back we were greeted by a wonderful sunset.

As the sun went down, so the sky became a deeper blue.

This is the Magazine in front of my seat, illuminated by the sun.

Tenerife - Hotel Riu Arecas - Costa Adeje

2008-04-20T18:17:00.000+01:00

The swimming pool

The swimming pool by night

The Chef

Two more chefs

Just look at the grub!

Too much for us!

But we forced ourselves!

In the foyer

Tenerife - Costa Adeje

2008-04-20T18:16:00.001+01:00

Bananas in front of Hotel Adeje Grand

Riu Palace Hotel by night

Along the prom

A stroll along the prom at night

Table Mountain from the prom

Water spout

Sunset over the sea

Tenerife - Santa Cruz

2008-04-20T18:15:00.000+01:00

African Market

Statue and fountain - A.D. Santiago Garcia Sanabria

Tram in Santa Cruz

TITSA Bus

Tenerife - Mount Teide and surrounding areas

2008-04-20T18:14:00.000+01:00

The approach road

Statue of Christ with Mt. Teide behind

More scenery

The Mountain

Terrain

Mt. Teide

Terrain

The Surrounding Area

Tenerife - La Caleta

2008-04-20T18:13:00.000+01:00

Seafront Restaurants

The restless sea

Nottingham Eye

2008-02-01T19:00:00.000Z

Rufford Christmas Fayre

2007-12-02T09:19:00.000Z

Encouraged by my daughter, Esther, I helped out running a stall at the Rufford Christmas Fayre at Rufford Country Park. The stall was a mixture of jewellery, cards and photographs. Also assisting us was Esther's friend, Harriet, who had also made a number of jewellery items.

At one stage we were visited by the Mayor and Mayoress who showed a keen interest in all we had produced but, sadl, this did not stretch to a financial investment in our goods. We were also visited by Robin Hood, both male and female, and Friar Tuck.

One thing we could not control was the weather. When we arrived, the rain was constant. As we went through the morning it persisted and was accompanied by some bouts of wind, making life difficult for stall-holders. You can see from this shot how, even when the sun shone, the after-effects of the rain were making life uncomfortable for us.

Because of the weather, attendance was very low, but the experience was good and we learnt many lessons for the next time.

Melton Mowbray Christmas Tree Festival

2007-12-01T08:58:00.000Z

Each year at St. Mary's Church in melton Mowbray, A Christmas Tree festival is held. Literally hundreds of local organisations participate in this event be exhibiting a tree which either reflects their activity or business or which depicts an aspect of the Christmas story. St. Mary's Church is pack out with trees of all shapes and sizes for several days and money is raised for restoration work on this magnificent church which boasts a long and distinguished tradition.

This tree was entitled 'The Pair Tree' (notice the spelling) and was a cross between Christmas and Noah's Ark. It shows the level of ingenuity exhibited in this festival. Melton Mowbray has a beautiful town centre which hosts a market on Saturdays. Famed for its Pork Pies, Melton Mowbray attracts many seasonal visitors, many of whom flock into the church as part of their pre-Christmas festivities.

Experimenting with the light, I took this photo in the chancel. With camera bag in one hand, tripod in the other and a distinct lack of light, I managed to knock over a candle stand when I had finished taking this shot.

We should be rightly proud of our Christian heritage, especially when it comes to Christmas Time. It is important to maintain the traditions of our faith at a time when pluralism and secularism is urging us to abandon religious practices. After all, Christianity defines us as a nation and our spiritual past has made us who we are today.

Celtic Heart

2007-11-26T08:55:00.000Z

This is a visual reflecting the Celtic Journey of Faith. Where are you on your 'Journey of Faith'? Are you starting out and in need of help and encouragement? Have you lost your way and are in need of someone to help you back on track? Please get in touch if you need someone to guide you.

Words and music are by Liz Babbs and Simeon Wood.

CARGO in Huthwaite

2007-11-19T11:50:00.000Z

Paul Field, the well known Christian musician, came to Huthwaite on November 17th to perform his musical CARGO which focusses upon the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The Methodist Church was packed out for the performance which was supported by a local choir. Much of the organisation was done by Lenna Pursglove (pictured left). In spite of a hiccup with the data projector, the evening went really well and those who attended were both inspired and challenged.

The following morning, Paul took part in the Sunday Service which again focussed on those in the world who are disadvantaged.

Fresh Expressions Vision Day

2007-11-03T12:12:00.000Z

On November 3rd, we held a Fresh Expressions Vision Day at Melbourne Methodist Church. The day was led by Tim Lea and Rachel Jordan who led us excellently through what's happening across the country in terms of Fresh Expressions of Church which are springing up all the time.

Wedding Anniversary

2007-10-27T12:02:00.000+01:00

For this year's wedding anniversary, Margaret and I went to Derbyshire for the day. It was cool and cloudy but we wandered over the hills overlooking Calver and Cliff College to be greeted by these placid residents of the hillside. It was an exhilerating walk and a good preparation for our coffee later that morning.

We enjoyed coffee in the quaint little cafe and craft shop in Calver village. This is a must for any tourists in this region. The pleasant surroundings and well-stocked gift shop make for a welcome break from the day's walking. Calver is a typical village in this part of Derbyshire and being only a couple of miles from Chatsworth House, it is a good place to stop off whilst in the vicinity.

Having then visited the Chatsworth House Farm Shop at Pilsley, we went for the first time to the church in the grounds of Chatsworth House at Edensor. The stained-glass windows were a rare treat and we sat meditatively for a while.

Sinking

2007-10-26T09:42:00.000+01:00

This is a comedy clip.

Blades

2007-10-23T11:31:00.000+01:00

On the main raod through the Lady Bay area of West Bridgford is a Methodist Chapel which was bought by a sports equipment firm a few years ago after closure. It is now a beautifully designed café on two storeys. It is an excellent place to chill out and meet with friends. Most mornings it is full of mothers and toddlers.

Having led services in the chapel over many years it was a revelation to see how the building has been transformed by its new owners. The churhes are still involved with the café in that Carol Services are held at Christmas.

My wife, Margaret, who works for the nearby Cheshire Home, organised a visit to Blades for the residents. They enjoyed a morning drinking coffee and relaxing together at the World's Biggest Coffee Morning.

It is really satisfying to know that a building which has served the community for so many years as a church is still acting as a spiritual oasis.

Vienna Fotomarathon 2007

2007-10-10T09:51:00.000+01:00

Well the results have been published. Our son, Andrew was again the top analogue photographer but had slipped from 3rd overall to 17th. I was not quite so fortunate, achieving a ranking of 253rd. Anyway, the experience was really good and there's always next year.

Andrew's photos can be viewed on his web site. Click on the Fotomarathon 2007 link on the left.

The winning entry can be viewed here.

CARGO by Paul Field

2007-10-10T08:00:00.000+01:00

The Brewhouse Theatre, Burton on Trent was the venue for the musical production, CARGO by Paul Field. The production commemorates the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, a movement pioneered by William Wilberforce. The concert took place on Friday October 5th at 7:30pm.

Paul has written a number of musicals and has also written and produced songs for Cliff Richard and many other top artists. Paul's web site gives more details of CARGO.

It was a memorable evening with the theatre packed out. Graham Meers had organised a backing choir of 24 local singers. They performed magnificently. We were delighted to welcome Councillor Liz Stapeles, the Deputy Mayor of the East Staffordshire Borough Council (pictured here with Paul Field and Sue Nickson).

This was an occasion of which the local Methodists can be proud.

Ruddington Framework Knitters' Museum

2007-10-02T20:39:00.000+01:00

It's not every Sunday that I'm invited to lead worship in a museum but last Sunday I found myself in the Ruddington Framework Knitters' Museum where the congregation of Ruddington Methodist Church are meeting during the refurbishment of their church in Nottingham. It was a wonderful setting and I really felt a closeness with the worshippers. Something of the historic surroundings added to the message of Abraham and 'Living by Faith'.

Vienna Fotomarathon 2007

2007-10-01T22:00:00.000+01:00

The Vienna Fotomarathon 2007 took place on September 8th. There were around 1,000 entrants, all descending upon the Rathaus at 9:30am for registration. The following set of pictures are my attempts at trying to win.

The themes we had to take were as follows:-

Action
Life is just a game
AWD "money rules the world"
Architecture around Schwarzenbergplatz
All different types of people around Naschmarkt
Sweet - Sour
Spittelberg
Today - Tomorrow
Music in Vienna
Holidays in Africa
Q19 - More than shopping
Municipal Tenement
Passion and Love
Gösser placed in nature
Environmental protection concerns all of us
Faith
Soccer and the European Cup
Red is Hot
Autumn Impressions
Insights - Lookouts
Musings
Plays of light
Happy drinking
Fernwärmer Wien - Duet of energy, waste and art

These themes had to be shot in order during a 12 hour period.

Vienna Fotomarathon 2007 - 1

2007-10-01T11:00:00.000+01:00

1. Action

As it happened, there was a game of 5-a-side football taking place outside the Rathaus.

2. Life is just a game

This table football game was also outside the Rathaus.

3. AWD "money rules the world"
AWD sponsored the event and this picture was taken outside the Parliament building.

4. Architecture around Schwarzenbergplatz
Obviously, this was taken in Schwarzenbergplatz.

Vienna Fotomarathon 2007 - 2

2007-10-01T10:00:00.000+01:00

5. All different types of people around Naschmarkt
Naschmarktwas very busy that day but finding the right people was difficult.

6. Sweet - Sour

This was also taken at the Naschmarkt.

7. Spittelberg

Spittelberg is the waste recycling station in Vienna, lavishly decorated by Hundertwasser.

8. Today - Tomorrow
A really tricky one. All we could find was this programme of events.

Vienna Fotomarathon 2007 - 3

2007-10-01T09:00:00.000+01:00

9. Music in Vienna
This music group were performing on a stage which, the following day, would be host to the Pope during his visit to Vienna.

10. Holidays in Africa
We had to find a shop with African goods. A little creativity was needed here too.

11. Q19 - More than shopping
This shopping centre was our lunch stop. We needed it!

12. Municipal Tenement
The light was beginning to fade along with our energy levels.

Vienna Fotomarathon 2007 - 4

2007-10-01T06:00:00.000+01:00

13. Passion and Love
Well - sort of!

14. Gösser placed in nature
How did this get there?

15. Environmental protection concerns all of us
Even the dogs...

16. Faith

St. Peter's Church in the centre of Vienna.

Vienna Fotomarathon 2007 - 5

2007-10-01T05:00:00.000+01:00

17. Soccer and the European Cup

Lucky mascot - but who will win?

18. Red is Hot

The fire brigade are always ready.

19. Autumn Impressions
An autumn display in one of Vienna's shops.

20. Insights - Lookouts
Who's this peculiar character?

Vienna Fotomarathon 2007 - 6

2007-10-01T04:00:00.000+01:00

21. Musings

An idle conversation after a hard day's work.

22. Plays of light
Imaginative scenes in Vienna's shopping area - Kärntner Straße.

23. Happy drinking
Downing a welcome pint.

24. Fernwärmer Wien - Duet of energy, waste and art
Back at Spittelau, the final destination for the marathon.

Outer Hebrides 1 - Stopover at Loch Ness

2007-09-27T22:00:00.000+01:00

In August of this year, I travelled with my son, Andrew and his girlfriend, Alex to Scotland. We started off at Loch Ness where we stayed a couple of nights and then spent a week on the Outer Hebrides. Around Loch Ness in the early morning there are some excellent scenes. This shot was taken at Fort Augustus on the southern tip of the loch.

We toured around the loch and visited Aviemore. This shot was taken near to Aviemore beside Loch an Eilein which offers pleasant walks and scenery.

Outer Hebrides 2 - En Route

2007-09-27T21:00:00.000+01:00

The scenery on the road between Loch Ness and Kyle of Lochalsh is stunning. We stopped off at Eilean Castle prior to crossing the bridge over to Skye. It was wise to make an early start from Loch Ness so that we could travel to Uig on the Isle of Skye in good time for the afternoon ferry. The roads were quiet and we watched the sun rising as we travelled. The view over the lochs was stunning.

We were taken by surprise by the castle at Eilean. Even in the early morning, many tourists joined us to gaze upon the scene.

Now that Skye is approachable via the road bridge, the journey north to Uig was much shorter than in previous years. From Uig, the ferry takes you, car and all, to the Outer Hebrides, landing at the secluded harbour of Tarbert. It takes just under two hours to cross the waters and on a calm day, the journey is most relaxing.

Outer Hebrides 3 - Butt of Lewis

2007-09-27T20:00:00.000+01:00

As this was our first time on the Outer Hebrides, we had no idea what to expect. We started off on Harris but soon found ourselves travelling right to the north of Lewis (the Butt of Lewis). Here you see gannets scouring the coastline for food. The wind is very strong and care needs to be taken when walking near the steep cliffs.

The scenes here are tremendous but there is absolutely no commerce to be seen. The little harbour is tranquil and is home to a number of small fishing boats. The Butt of Lewis is the northern-most tip of the island and is well worth a visit.

Outer Hebrides 4 - Callanish Standing Stones

2007-09-27T19:00:00.002+01:00

Everyone visits the famous standing stones at Callanish on the west coast. These stones date back over 5,000 years and no one is really sure what they represent. They seem to be an ancient burial chamber but the moon also plays a part in their construction. The next port of call was just down the coast to Uig Sands.

The bay of Uig is vast and covered in light coloured sands and surrounded by sand dunes. It is well worth a visit but don't forget your beach equipment.

Outer Hebrides 5 - Western Harris

2007-09-27T18:00:00.000+01:00

We had no idea of the delights which awaited us as we set off to the west coast of Harris. It was around 5pm when we started along the single-track twisting road. The scenery was magnificent and quite out of the blue, we turned a corner and found before us the castle of Amhuinnsuidh. We stopped to look at the scenery which included a waterfall cascading into the loch. Salmon were jumping at the foot of the waterfall.

As we continued along the road to the west coast, we continued to take in the scenery as the sun started to set. At the end of the road is a village called Hushinish which has a beautiful deserted beach and a path which leads to the west-facing headland. We took this path armed with cameras and tripod and waited for that magical moment when the sun would set upon the sea.

However, it was quite bland so we decided to make our way back and take sunset shots over the hills instead. The long drive back to Kershader was taken at speed as we tried to reach the local restaurant before they stopped serving food - all to no avail as they closed early.

This outing has got to rank as one of the best we made on the whole holiday.

Outer Hebrides 6 - Scalpay

2007-09-27T16:00:00.000+01:00

The isle of Scalpay on the east coast of Harris is a beautiful spot on a sunny day. The views as we approached the new road bridge to the island were excellent with rolling hills with sheep grazing in the tranquil summer sun. The owners of this bungalow took enormous care with their garden, the equal of which I have never seen.

The mass of little islands provided excellent photographic opportunities as we slowly meandered towards the island proper. We couldn't resist stopping at each headland to admire the wonderful views. Again we were taken by surprise at the sheer beauty of the Outer Hebrides and plotted our next holiday as we breathed in the atmosphere.

The idyllic harbour with its old wreck made a pleasant picnic stop. We could have stayed much longer had time permitted.

Outer Hebrides 7 - coming back home

2007-09-27T13:50:00.001+01:00

No trip to Scotland would be complete without a listen to the famous piper at Loch Claunie on the A87. Apparently this piper plays every day to commemorate a famous battle which took place on this spot. We were not impressed with his playing but the scenery was tremendous.

Framework Knitters' Chapel

2007-09-24T15:34:00.000+01:00

As a practitioner in Fresh Expressions of Church, I have had the privilege of leading worship in a number of places which you wouldn't normally associate with church. However, it was a particular pleasure to lead worship in Ruddington and the Framework Knitters' Museum in Chapel Street. The theme of the service was 'Living by Faith' and focused upon the call of Abraham. The hymns included 'Praise my soul the King of heaven' and 'I the Lord of sea and sky'.

The congregation of the Ruddington Methodist Church are meeting here while their church is being refurbished. Here are two long-standing members (John and Pam) leaving at the end of the service.

Reflections

2007-09-24T09:26:00.000+01:00

Water is always a good media through which to take photos with a difference. This is a photo of the Danube Tower, Vienna with my wife's reflection alongside.

If you click on the picture you will see its full-sized equivalent. See Vienna 2007 Day 6 for a picture of the tower in real life.

Prater Park Vienna

2007-09-19T19:55:00.001+01:00

Vienna's Prater Park at night is a photographer's heaven. Armed with tripod, slow exposure shots of the Riesenrad can give some stunning effects. This photo was taken on a 30" exposure using a special zoom effect.

Click on the image for a full-sized equivalent.

Vienna 2007 - Day 7

2007-09-12T14:34:00.000+01:00

Wednesday September 12th 2007
Being the last day and with our flight taking off late evening, we meandered around Vienna, looking at places which mean a lot to us. We started off at Karlskirche, the magnificent church which stands proudly alongside Karlsplatz which is home to one of the many Christmas Markets from early December onwards.

What better way to relax and watch the world go by than to sit outside the Segfredo cafe on the Ringstraße. The trams are frequently ferrying their passengers to destinations unknown. We sat and drank our cafe latte reflecting upon the memories of the last few days and occasionally allowing our minds to race ahead to work the following day.

Vienna is a magnet for people of all kinds - Muslims, Jews, Catholics and a whole host of people whose inner thoughts remain as private as the day is long.

Our final walk took us past the Opera and the world famous Sacher Hotel, renowned for its Sacher Torte - chocolate cake made to a unique recipe.
Then we finished our stroll in the famous Stephans Platz which is home not only to Stephansdom, where Pope Benedict had celebrated mass only a few days earlier, but also to a number of street artists who girate in different ways dressed up in peculiar attire. Sometimes tourists would stand beside them and have their photo tsken.

And finally, a visit inside the great cathedral itself. We searched out the famous Pilgram who hides under one of the pillars.
The cathedral attracts thousands of tourists each day who, like us, look mournfully upon poor ladies who sit begging at the entrance.

Vienna will always remain in our hearts as the place where we visit our son, Andrew who has lived here for the last 9 years - but maybe not for much longer as he has heard that redundancies are in the pipeline and he may be one of them. Where will he go next?

Vienna 2007 Day 6

2007-09-11T17:01:00.000+01:00

Tuesday September 11th 2007
Today was a day of mixed weather. When we arrived at the Donauturm (Danube Tower), we were met by bright sunshine and went up to the cafe area for our mid-morning coffee in the revolving section. It takes around half an hour to do a complete revolution.

The tower is near to the newly constructed 'Austria Centre Vienna (ACV)' which is a photographer's paradise with tall buildings, reflections and constant activity from business people and tourists.

After coffee we went to the viewing gallerie and I took photos right across Vienna. The tower provides the best views of Vienna and stands to the east of the Danube river. In the north you can see Kahlenberg sitting proudly on the hillside. Below the tower is the beautiful Donaupark.

After a lazy trip on the trams, we went back to the famous Hundertwasser Haus where you can see the revolutionary and artistic exploits of Friedensreich Hundertwasser along with his artwork and memorabelia.

Vienna 2007 Day 5

2007-09-10T17:43:00.000+01:00

Monday September 10th 2007
Being a work day we were left to our own devices so we went to Kahlenberg and Leopoldsberg for the views over the Danube. Then we went back to Grinzing for a meal and finally back to the centre of Vienna for a photo of Strauss in the Stadtpark.

In the evening we went to the Prater Park. This is home to the famous Riesenrad which, until the London Eye was built, was the tallest wheel in Europe. Sadly the rain came down so we went for a pizza instead of riding on the wheel.

Vienna 2007 Day 4

2007-09-10T17:39:00.000+01:00

Sunday September 9th 2007
We woke up late being exhausted after the Fotomarathon. We watched the Pope celebrating mass at Stephansdom in the centre of Vienna. Stephansplatz was teeming with people (around 10,000).

In the afternoon we went to Laxemburg, south of Vienna. It is a pleasant park with plenty of walks through woodlands and beside the waters. There's a boating lake and much more. However, it is quite some distance from Vienna and requires a car journey to get there.

In the eveing we celebrated Margaret's birthday with a meal at one of her favourite restaurants - Sieben Stern - a place which brews its own beer on site.

Vienna 2007 Day 3

2007-09-10T17:34:00.000+01:00

Vienna Fotomarathon - September 8th 2007

We arrived at the Rathau (Town Hall) around 9:30am along with another 1,000 entrants. We were given our bag containing information and a voucher for food and drink. Finally we picked up a scedule of 24 themes to be photographed in order. At 10am we were free to go and pursue the marathon. Every one spilled out into the centre of Vienna looking for scenes which would impress the judges.

My photos will follow shortly. Judging takes place over the next 4 weeks and if I'm in the top 100 (some hopes) I will be invited back for the award ceremony. Here's one of my shots entitled 'Plays of Light' which I took near to Stephansdom.

Vienna 2007 Day 2

2007-09-07T16:27:00.000+01:00

Friday September 7th 2007
Today was another rainy day from start to finish. We started off with a visit to a shopping mall near Spittelau. Just a short underground ride from the hospital (Krankenhaus in German), we arrived just before lunch and bought me some trainers at some ridiculously low price. I hope they last for more than a month! Vienna has more shopping malls than most cities and prices are very reasonable.

The shopping malls are full of cafes and bars. Unlike Britain, somking has not been banned in public places so we chose our seats carefully.

We heard on the news that the Pope is visiting Vienna today. I don't think his visit has anything to do with our being here. Austria is a strongly Catholic country and Vienna has its fair share of large churches and basilicas.

Tomorrow is the big day - the Vienna FotoMarathon. Andrew entered last year for the first time and came third out of over 800 entrants. He was the top analogue entrant and his photos can be viewed here. This year it's Dad and Son competing. I don't stand a chance really but it will be a day to remember.

All of this will be eclipsed somewhat by another event which takes place on September 8th - Margaret's birthday. Fancy having to trundle around Vienna with a couple of amateur photographers snapping all and sundry when it's your birthday!!! Still, it should be made up for the day after when we shall search out an English-speaking church followed by a birthday surprise.

Vienna 2007 Day 1

2007-09-06T18:27:00.000+01:00

Thursday 6th September 2007
We arrived yesterday in a downpour of rain at Bratislava Airport to be picked up by Andrew who then drove us to Vienna. Today it is still wet and cold but we went into the city centre to browse the shops.

Strolling around Vienna can be tiring and so we slipped into a cafe for Topfenstrudel and hot chocolate. This photo was taken on Mariahilfe Straße.

St. Peter's Church is one of the most ornate churches in Vienna. We sat for a while while an organ recital raised money for the upkeep of the organ. The church is situated near to Stephansplatz and Graben. From the outside it looks like any old church but inside, the scenes are breathtaking. The church attractas an enormous number of visitors each day.
The Graben is steeped with interesting scenes and eating places.

Public transport in Vienna is second to none. For around €1.50 you can travel on tram, underground or bus to any part of Vienna. It is so relaxing to sit on the tram as it circles the city on the Ringstraße. You will see so many interesting sites like the Opera House, the Parliament building, the Rathaus and the Sacher Hotel.

Macro Photography

2007-07-07T17:07:00.001+01:00

Macro Photography enables you to see the world through a different set of eyes. You are able to take photos from as close as a few inches and acquire the kind of detail which creates stunning photos. Macro lenses are not cheap but they greatly enhance your portfolio.

It is sometimes necessary to use a tripod for macro photography, especially when using a slow shutter speed. That way you can afford a longer exposure without having to strain your body in order to keep the camera still. With a snail this is quite easy but in windy conditions, you need a faster shutter speed.

I like to take shots which show the versatility of the camera. Using a smaller aperture, you achieve a greater depth of field. That means that the foreground and the background are in focus. You will see on these two shots how the depth of field varies according to the aperture size. Of course, with a digital camera, you can experiment with shots like this at will and not worry about the cost.

Going on Retreat

2007-06-13T08:18:00.001+01:00

It is so important for those in any kind of ministry which constantly 'gives out' to find times when they can 'take in' and feed their own soul. This week I went on a retreat to Reasby, just off the A46 near Leicester. The beautiful gardens and the prayerful atmosphere made all the difference. But it's the ability to switch off, do nothing and let God speak which is so important.

I actually achieved quite a lot during the day. I prepared a talk for a meeting I was leading that same evening and gained much inspiration for other matters too. It's no wonder Jesus would withdraw to the hillside to pray. It's amazing how much healing we can receive through silence and those times when we can simply listen.

Praying for Madeleine

2007-06-02T07:20:00.001+01:00

It must be hard for people to know just what to pray in a situation like Madeleine McCann, the girl abducted while on holiday in Portugal. Naturally we all want to see her reunited with her parents and to be able to put this ordeal behind her. However, inspite of the prayer support of the Pope and thousands of others across the world, nothing seems to be happening. It's easy to lose hope and confidence in prayer.

There are a number of issues here which we need to consider in prayer.

Firstly, the welfare of Madeleine herself. No one knows where she is or whether she is still alive.

Secondly there's the person or persons who have abducted her. Do they know what harm they are doing to all concerned? Do they care?

Thirdly, we need to remember that thousands of children across the globe lose their life every day through poverty, famine or war. Whilst it is important to continue to pray for Madeleine, we need also to recognise that the world is an unjust place and we are all, to some degree, to blame.

In the Lord's Prayer we say the lines "Thy Kingdom Come on earth as it is in heaven". The meaning of these words is that we pray for a world where tragedies like these never happen. That requires a change of heart, not only in those who abduct children, but in all of us when we are selfish and greedy and put our own welfare above the welfare of others.

Prayer - Lord, may your Kingdom come, not only in this tragic situation with Madeleine, but for all those who suffer at the hands of others. May justice and peace be spread across this world, starting with me. Amen.

The Quiet Time

2007-05-30T20:11:00.000+01:00

How’s your daily prayer life? What’s the state of your ‘quiet time’? Do you spend time with God on a regular basis and if so, how do you do it? For some Christians it can be a real struggle in this hectic world in which we live to fit in a regular time of prayer and biblical reflection - while for others, the rhythm of daily prayer is natural.

Studies have shown that our differing personality types will necessitate a different approach for different people. Not everyone can fit in an early morning prayer time and some will find that regularity and routine is a problem in anything they do, let alone prayer. However, this can sometimes be an excuse rather than a genuine reason. All the main world faiths expect their adherents to commune regularly with God and pray for other people, and not just on the Sabbath. Prayer is not something which should be left to the minister but is something which, when approached seriously, transforms the life of the believer.

Here are a couple of suggestions for those whose prayer life has stagnated or needs a fresh look.

Northumbria Community

St. Aidan

For some people, having a daily liturgy which is shared by other people is a valuable thing. The Northumbria Community is a dispersed community of people throughout the UK and beyond, who regularly use the ‘Celtic Daily Prayer’. It can be purchased in book form from the community itself (see web site) or from a Christian bookshop. Each day has a liturgy for morning, midday and evening and this includes a set of Bible readings, a daily reading from the Celtic tradition and mediation for the day. It borrows heavily from the Celtic saints (St. Aidan is pictured left) and the Desert Fathers and Mothers. The web site mentioned above has a list of related resources including music.

You can join with other companions of the community or simply use it on your own.

Bible Reading on-line
Some people like the idea of reading a small portion of the Bible each day with the aid of study notes. Probably the most famous of these are ‘Every Day With Jesus’ by the late Selwyn Hughes. However, reading a small snippet from the Bible each day may not suit everyone. It might therefore be better to read a larger section of the Bible on a less frequent basis – say weekly.

An excellent way of doing this, for those who are on the internet, is to use The Bible Gateway which allows you to listen to the Bible on-line. The whole of the Bible can be heard in a number of different versions. As long as you can tolerate the American voices which is used on most of them, it’s a good way of sitting back and taking in the Word in large sections. There are a number of other similar sites, some with downloadable files.

If you have other suggestions which people might profit from, please let me know by replying to this email.

Friar Lane Nottingham

2007-05-30T12:26:00.000+01:00

This picture was taken at Christmas time 2006 on a cold winter's evening on a slow exposure with gentle adjustment to the zoom. It was taken on Friar Lane at around 9pm.

Prague

2007-05-30T11:56:00.001+01:00

Prague is another beautiful city. The river Danube runs right through the centre and provides equisite walks and relaxing sojourns in cafés and bars.

A boat trip on the river gives you a relaxed view of the city. A walk around the town offers you amazing sites including the famous Apostles' Clock (pictured left).

Vienna

2007-05-30T08:15:00.000+01:00

Vienna is one of our favourite cities. Our son, Andrew lives and works there and we visit on a regular basis. It is a city of great beauty and brimming with culture.

There are many places to visit including Stephensdom (pictured left) which is the main cathedral in the cetre of Vienna. The Rathaus (town hall) is beautiful, especially at Christmas when it is tastefully light and surrounded by stall for the Christkindlmarkt.

There are also many parks. The Prater park is home to the famous Riesenrad (big wheel) which, until the London Eye was erected, was the biggest such wheel in Europe.

The Stadtpark is home to Johann Srauss (pictured right). This park is situated beside the Ringstrasse (ring road) which encircles Vienna. You can board a tram and travel around the Ringstrasse as many times as you like, hopping on and off as you please.

Of all the capital cities I have visited, Vienna is among the most composed, peaceful and fulfilling. It is not expensive compared with places like London and yet the quality of life and ambience are much better.

Epworth Old Rectory

2007-05-30T08:12:00.001+01:00

Epworth Old Rectory is the birthplace of John and Charles Wesley, the founders of the Methodist Movement back in the 18th century. For those interested in the history of the British Isles or the 18th century revival, a visit to Epworth is a must.

The Old Rectory is being restored to its original state just after the fire from which John Wesley was rescued as a child. Not only can you have a guided tour of the house, but you ca also visit the Physic Garden which grows many of the herbs used by the Wesley family.

Today, Methodism enjoys a world-wide membership of around 70,000,000 people in many different countries of the world. Much of the credit for this lies with Susanna Wesley, the mother of John and Charles, who instilled religious discipline and teaching into her children each day. Altogether Susanna had 19 children but not all survived.