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Friday 13 July 2012

Updates & Information... Fri 6 July 2012



Dear Friends

Please find below events & items of news that may prove of interest - feel free to forward this to others.

Highlights in this bulletin include the city-wide Adoration event (22 July) & the National Day of Prayer & Worship at Wembley Stadium (29 Sept).

Also, at the bottom of the bulletin you will find an encouraging report from the recent World Prayer Assembly in Indonesia.

1.      Tricks for Truth: Steve Macbeth... Sat 7 July
2.      Charity Gospel Choir Concert… Sat 7 July
3.      Arise... Sun 8 July
4.      Farm 2 Grow... Events in 2012
5.      Focus Christian Fellowship... Sat 14 July
6.      SVSA Lunch Event... Tues 17 July
7.      Evangelism Training Day... Sat 21 July
8.      S3SN Support Programme for Third Sector Representatives... Mon 23 July
9.      Events at St Lawrence, Biddulph... July 2012
10.  Adoration... Sunday 22 July
11.  Sycamore Tree Group Facilitator Training... Fri 27 July
12.  Ring out the Bells... Fri 27 July
13.  Focus Christian Fellowship... Sat 11 Aug
14.  Workshop and Training with Mark Hatcher... Sat 11 Aug
15.  RubyGirl UK Charity Fundraiser Event... Fri 7 September
16.  Hanley Elim “Celebrating 50 years of worship & Ministry”... 8 & 9 Sept
17.  Wembley 2012: National Day of Prayer & Worship... Sat 29 Sept
18.  Connected Worship… 2-4 November 2012
19.  Focus Christian Fellowship... Sat 3 November
20.  John Bell to visit Lichfield in November
21.  Fire 2012... 23-24 November
22.  2012 UCB Leaders Meeting
23.  Community Scrap Shack
24.  Private Tuition Available for Foreign Languages Students
25.  Free Adult Training Courses
26.  Staffordshire Moorlands & Newcastle: Introduction to Volunteering course
27.  S3SN Support Programme for Third Sector Representatives
28.  ARCH Tenancy Training
29.  Volunteers needed to help at Primary School
30.  10,000 books for sale
31.  Request to lodge with local Christian Family
32.  The Kerygma Bus: Bringing Communities Together
33.  Focus Christian Fellowship
34.  Street Pastors: Looking for Volunteers
35.  Nightchurch
36.  Nightshift Creative Missions Week
37.  Christian Meditation
38.  Gym and Activity Centre...YMCA North Staffordshire
39.  Updated: Mission Shaped Ministry  
40.  Grounds Maintenance, Landscaping & Tree Services
41.  Free
42.  Fair Trade Group in Newcastle
43.  Chronic Disease Self-Management Programme
44.  Woman’s Group
45.  The Lounge Booking
46.  Healing Rooms
47.  SALTBOX
48.  Saltbox Database
49.  PhoneLink Volunteers - Telephone befrienders needed
50.  Vacancy: Receptionist at Lichfield Cathedral
51.  Pastoral Mentor: Church Lane Evangelical Church
52.  2012: Why not pray for a change?
53.  Report from the World Prayer Assembly

*** Don’t forget to get involved with the 2012 year of prayer (last item below) - your support for this important 2012 prayer initiative is important.  Check out the current prayer slots available in January by clicking on the following link & then choose July or August in the ‘select a month’ box: www.whynotprayforachange.co.uk/signup . You will simply need to register to then sign up for a prayer slot…

Every Blessing
Lloyd

Lloyd Cooke
Chief Executive
Saltbox Christian Centre

Supporting Church & faith groups
Supporting the elderly
Supporting ex-offenders
Supporting those in debt 

Tricks for Truth: Steve Macbeth… Saturday 7 July


An evangelistic event with family entertainer & magician, Steve Macbeth at St Lawrence’s Church, Biddulph.

Tickets are: adult £5, child £3, family ticket £12 (2 adults & 2 children).  4pm start.

To book call 513891.


Charity Gospel Choir Concert… Saturday 7 July


Venue:            Newcastle Community High School • Community Centre • Gallows Tree Lane • The Westlands • Newcastle-under-Lyme • ST5 2QS
Time:               Doors open at 6pm and performance starts at 6.30pm
Cost:                £5.00 per ticket (in advance) or £6.00 on door, £3.00 for under 16s

Includes refreshments and raffle, all proceeds go towards Midlands Air Ambulance Charity

To book tickets/for enquiries contact:
T: 07913 781515         E: gospelchoirfun@yahoo.co.uk


Arise... Sunday 8 July


An evening of city-focussed prayer & worship…powerful contemporary intercession & ministry.

Date:              Sunday 8 July 
Venue:           Bridge Centre, Birches Head Road, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST2 8DD
Time:              7.00-9.00pm

For more information           T: 01782 683781


Farm 2 Grow... Events in 2012

July 2012

Sat 14 July: Willow weaving for beginners making hurdles with Riverwoods a local group promoting Sustainable woodland management and traditional green woodcrafts.
Thurs 19 July: Willow Weaving Advanced make a basket in a day with Rachel from Wheatcroft willow a very experienced willow weaver who can advise on a manner of willows.
Fri 27 July: Grow your own veg (beginners). Link in with activities here on the farm with possible opportunities to join our volunteer group on a regular basis after the event. You will also meet Staffordshire’s chocolate maker Mr Popple

August 2012

Sat 4 August: Conservation day learning about tree and plant species and hands on fun activities with Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.
Thurs 9 August: Learn how to make attractive signage with our local arts and craft designer Kate Lynch. You will be involved in designing and making the signs for our event day on the 1 September 2012
Fri 17 August: Permaculture for beginners. Learn the basics of permaculture and how you can reduce your own carbon footprint and help the environment
Wed 22 & Fri 24 August: Lantern making using Pugin inspired gothic lanterns in preparation for the lighting installation on our events celebration open day on 1 Sept designed and hand made with Heather from the local
Pugin project in Cheadle
Thurs 30 August: Card making crafts learn how to make your own special cards for friends and family

Pacific Institutes

STEPS to Excellence
13-module course to:
·         Increase self-belief
·         Improve ability to set goals
·         Higher levels of motivation
·         Insight into how the mind works

Dates: Mon 25 June, Tues 26 June, Wed 27 June, Mon 2 July, Tues 3 July, Wed 4 July
Cost: £250

CELEBRATION OF CRAFT EVENTS DAY

Date: 1 SEPTEMBER 2012
Activities: stall holders, crafts people holding workshop demonstrations, Produce sales, Refreshments, Farm tour (meet the animals)

To book for events e-mail: admin@farm2grow.co.uk
To find out more details of all that is going on at Farm 2 Grow contact:
E: helen@farm2grow.co.uk              T: 01782551833 or 07766836006 (Helen Bailey)

Baileys Barn Cheadle Road Wetley Rocks Staffs ST9 0AZ


Focus Christian fellowship… Saturday 14 July


Christian fellowship at Tunstall Methodist Church 6.45pm – 9.45pm
A time to meet spiritually and socially: 18+, all welcome, refreshments available.
For more details contact Andrew 01782 824794


Stoke-on-Trent Voluntary Sector Assembly Invite... Tuesday 17 July


You are invited to the next Stoke Voluntary Sector Assembly (SVSA) lunch event on 17 July, with guest speaker Joe Irvin of NAVCA (National Association for Voluntary and Community Action) looking at the challenges facing the voluntary sector today.
 
Date:               Tuesday 17 July
Time:               12.30-2.00pm
Venue:            The Dudson Centre, Hope Street, Hanley, ST1 5DD

To book a place, please email
assembly@vast.org.uk by Thursday 12th July.

Please note that places are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis (no more than two attendees per organisation).

For further information please click here


Evangelism Explosion Training Day… Sat 21 July


Date:               Saturday 21 July
Venue:            Triumphant Christ Chapel, Yorke House, Furlong Lane, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 3LE
Time:               10am - 4pm
Price:               £10 (Light refreshments provided) 

Led by National Director: Dennis Webber

For more information call 01782 838 008 (Pastor John Appiah) or 07704130488 (Ian Whitwood)


Adoration 2012 – “One Big Summer Sunday”


Adoration is a major North Staffs Christian community project with family activities (bouncy castles, arts & crafts, fun fair, etc) & live music from local Christian artistes.

The event will conclude with a Big Stage Celebration with worship leader by Noel Richards.

Date:               Sunday 22 July
Venue:            Burslem Park
Time:               12.00 - 6.00pm: Community events
6.00pm: Big Stage Celebration with Noel Richards

This is a FREE event.

Further information contact T: 01782 524200         W: www.nxt.org.uk



Sycamore Tree Group Facilitator Training

What is Sycamore Tree?
  • Sycamore Tree is a six-session programme taught in prison to a group of up to 20 learners. 
  • It raises victim awareness among offenders and teaches them about restorative justice.
  • Offenders on the programme explore the effects of crime on victims, offenders, and the community, and discuss what it would mean to take responsibility for their personal actions.
  • Each Sycamore Tree programme is presented by a fully trained tutor and several small group leaders.
  • The success of a Sycamore Tree programme relies on our volunteers who are willing to give up their time to go into prison and teach this course.

When:             Friday 27th July 2012
Time:               10.00am - 4.00pm 
Where:            Sandbach Baptist Church, 36 Green Street, Sandbach, CW11 1GX
Lunch and refreshments will be provided and the Training Day is Free. To register your interest in the Training Day, please RSVP to Denise Westmoreland: (E) denisewestmoreland@prisonfellowship.org.uk or call Denise on 020 7799 2500
To download the invitation, please click here:

United Prayer...“Ring Out The Bells - Friday 27 July


As part of the celebrations to mark the opening of the Olympics church bells throughout the UK will be rung. Many Christians believe that this provides a prophetic opportunity to pray for the nation & to ask the Lord to "ring out the bells of His change over the nation". Join with the local Christians to pray together.

Date:               Friday 27 July
Time:               8.00-8.30am
Venue:            St. Peter's Minster, Stoke


Events at St Lawrence, Biddulph... July 2012


Saturday 7 July at 4pm:
Steve Macbeth, family entertainer and member of the prestigious Magic Circle, presents ‘Tricks for truth,’ using illusion, comedy and story telling to delight his audience and explain his Christian faith. In St Lawrence’s church Biddulph. For more information and ticket sales contact the Church Office, weekdays 9am-12noon and Thursday evening 6pm-8pm 01782 513891 or email office@biddulphchurch.org.uk

Saturday 14 July from 10am until noon and 2-4 pm:
Ever wanted to try your hand at bell-ringing? Regular ringers, under the guidance of Tower Captain John Hazeldine, will gladly welcome you to the tower and ‘show you the ropes,’ Booking is essential for this FREE event. For more information contact St Lawrence’s Church Office, weekdays 9am-12noon and Thursday evening 6pm-8pm 01782 513891 or email office@biddulphchurch.org.uk

Sunday 15 July 3pm-7.45pm:
A Challenge! Sing from 3pm-7.45pm, while learning & rehearsing music for ‘Choral Evensong from Scratch’ with Shuff. There will be a break for tea. Not quite The Choir or Radio 3 perhaps but a chance to raise the roof of St Lawrence’s Church Biddulph. For more information contact St Lawrence’s Church Office, weekdays 9am-12noon and Thursday evening 6pm-8pm 01782 513891 or email office@biddulphchurch.org.uk

Wednesday 18 July 11-30am to 4pm:
St Lawrence’s becomes a gallery where Biddulph U3A Painters work is displayed. ‘Eye, Hand & Heart’ reveals the dynamic creativity of this age challenged group. For more information contact St Lawrence’s Church Office, weekdays 9am-12noon and Thursday evening 6pm-8pm 01782 513891 or email office@biddulphchurch.org.uk

Wednesday 18 July at 7.30pm:
John Lindley, former Cheshire poet Laureate and prize winner, gives the first readings of poems he was inspired to write by the painting of American artist, Bonell. Look at projected images and listen to the words of ‘Crossing The Divide’, with wine whilst in the rich surroundings of the historic St Lawrence’s Church on For more information contact St Lawrence’s Church Office, weekdays 9am-12noon and Thursday evening 6pm-8pm 01782 513891 or email office@biddulphchurch.org.uk

Saturday 21 July at 7.30pm: 
Congleton Writers Forum and friends invite Biddulphians to a ‘Feisty Feast of words, music, art and wine’ on Saturday, Indulge in a summer evening’s entertainment in this lovely old church. For more information and ticket sales contact the Church Office, weekdays 9am-12noon and Thursday evening 6pm-8pm 01782 513891 or email office@biddulphchurch.org.uk

Thursday 26 July at 7.30pm: 
St Lawrence’s church, Biddulph has arranged ‘An Evening with Adam Partridge,’ in Biddulph Town Hall. A valuation event with priceless entertainment and bargain refreshments. You’ve seen Adam on ‘FLOG IT’ now discover if you have ‘Cash in the Attic.’ A £4 ticket includes one valuation.
For more information and ticket sales contact the Church Office, weekdays 9am-12noon and Thursday evening 6pm-8pm 01782 513891 or email office@biddulphchurch.org.uk


Focus Christian fellowship… Saturday 11 August


Focus Christian fellowship with Faith Supper at Tunstall Methodist Church 6.45pm–9.45pm. A time to meet Spiritually and socially: 18+, all welcome, refreshments available.
For more details contact Andrew 01782 824794


Workshop & Training Day... Sat 11 Aug


Are you a  Sunday school teacher? Are you part of a Messy Church team?
Network with other children’s church leaders and find out about new recourses and how to take the next step with parents.

Date:               Saturday 11 August
Venue:            St. Paul’s Church, 131 Longton Hall Road, Blurton, SOT, ST3 2EL
Time:               9am to 12pm
RSVP:              Please confirm your attendance by calling St Paul’s office on 598366

 More information at www.stpaulsonline.co.uk

RubyGirl UK Charity Fundraiser Event... Fri 7 September


RGUK will be hosting its citywide CHARITY fundraiser night for 'GIRLS IN CRISIS'

Date:               Friday 7 September, 7-10pm (doors open 6.30pm for purchases)
Venue:            Moat House Hotel
Includes:         Inspirational stories, live music, fashion show with 75% off high street fashion, auction and funky stalls ( cupcake city, Glam handbags, accessories  & jewellery and much more!)
Cost:                Tickets only £5... including a free drink & canopé!!!
Book:             Tickets available from admin dept on: 07812 774 632
Or contact Kath Allen at the Bridge Centre (Monday to Friday 10-4pm.)

This is not just for ladies so bring your partners & help us make a BIG difference to the vulnerable girls of our city!


Hanley Elim Pentecostal Church: “Stepping Back in Time and A Special Welcome Back


Celebrating 50 years of Worship and Ministry with:

Pastor David Ayling and his wife Julia
Saturday 8th September 2.00-4.30pm - "Meet and Greet"
Sunday 9th September 10.30am and 6.30pm - Pastor Dave will be ministering to us at both services

Pastor Bill Crawford and his wife
Saturday 13th October 2.00-4.30pm - "Meet and Greet"
Sunday 14th October 10.30am and 6.30pm - Pastor Bill will be ministering to us at both services

Pastor John Hollick and his wife, Brenda Hollick
Saturday 10th November 2.00-4.30pm - "Meet and Greet"
Sunday 11th November 10.30am and 6.30pm - Pastor John will be ministering to us at both services

Elim Pentecostal Church, Bucknall Old Road, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 2AF. 
T: 01782 279092 or go to http://www.hanleyelim.co.uk/ for more details.


Wembley 2012 – National Day of Prayer & Worship


Join with over 70,000 Christians from across the UK for this national day of prayer & worship. This will be a ‘once in a generation event’.

Guest worship leaders include Tim Hughes, Matt Redman, Noel Robinson, Lara Martin, Hillsong London, etc.

Group bookings:
Coaches will be travelling from across the nation to Wembley. Why not consider organising a coach for your congregation? If you do, please inform the Saltbox so that we can monitor the number of coaches going from North Staffs. For group bookings of over 50 persons there is a special team available to speak with you about this via a dedicated ticket line on 0800 756 5451

Date:               Saturday 29 September 2012
Venue:            Wembley Stadium
Time:               2.00 - 6.30pm
Tickets:           £10

Further details: T: 0800 756 5451     W: www.ndopwembley.com


Connected Worship… 2-4 November 2012

Date:               2 November and officially finish at 4pm on 4 November.
Venue:            The Pyramid and Bold Street Methodist Church in Warrington
Sessions:         • Mission and preaching in the twenty-first century
• Reflective Worship
• Streamed workshops: Preaching / worship leading /mission contexts
• Retreat and meet other preachers and worship leaders
Bookshop and marketplace of resources
Contributors: Rev Dr Roger Walton, Ron Willoughby, Rev Joanne Cox, Rev Helen Cameron
Cost:                £125 pp (inc. meals & conference fee), £65 pp for Saturday only
To book:         Visit www.methodist.org.uk/lp


Focus Christian fellowship… Saturday 3 November


Christian fellowship with a day trip to Blackpool and illuminations by coach TBC.
If interested, please contact Andrew for further details 01782 824794


John Bell to visit Lichfield in November


John Bell of the Iona Community, nationally and internationally renowned as a musician, preacher and broadcaster will be leading two sessions in the Cathedral, on the first weekend in November 3-4.  He will be there on Saturday (morning and afternoon) and will preach at the morning sung Eucharist in the Cathedral on Sunday. Details of booking arrangements will be available soon.


Fire 2012... 23-24 November


Christ for all Nations is the ministry of Evangelists Reinhard Bonnke and Daniel Kolenda, and we are holding a two-day event called Fire 2012 at the end of November with the aim of equipping people for evangelism.

Venue:            LG Arena, Birmingham
Date:               23-24 November 2012
Includes:         Guest Speaker J John and worship by Martin Stevens
Booking:         0844 338 0338 or visit www.fire2012.org


2012 UCB Leaders’ Meeting


Tea and coffee will be available on the day from 10.30am ready for an 11am start, beginning with a time of praise and worship, followed by the guest speaker & a buffet lunch.

July 10th Tuesday - PHILIP JINADU - Winning Ways & Woodlands Church, Bristol 
August 21st Tuesday - JEFF LUCAS - Jeff Lucas Intl Ministries & Timberline  Church 
September 20th Thursday - NORMAN BARNES - Founder of Links International 
October 10th Wednesday - DIANA STACEY - Grace Family Church, Liverpool  
November 7th Wednesday - ROY TODD - Roy Todd Ministries & Junction 24 Church 
December 4th Tuesday - SUZETTE HATTINGH - Voice in the City

UCB: You can receive further details and book a place now for all of the dates listed simply by emailing leadersdays@ucb.co.uk.  


Community Scrap Shack


Community Scrap Shack recycles waste from business across Staffordshire that can be used for arts and crafts for adults and children across the country. We are looking for any waste that is unusual, versatile, colourful, clean and safe.

This includes plastic, paper, card, stationery, and textiles and fabrics. To find out more information contact:

Michelle Folkes on 07956 606334 | Helen Arnall on  07968 348645

Elsing Street Fenton Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2PR


Private Tuition Available for Foreign Languages


Local Christian tutors offering private tuition in the following languages: French, German, Italian and EFL (English as a Foreign Language). If you would like to take up a new language or build on existing skills, contact us at christiantutors@btinternet.com for more information. We are also keen to hear from other Christian tutors who can offer additional languages.


Free Adult Training Courses


Did you hate school? Do you wish you had done better? Do you want to improve you qualifications?

We can help you achieve nationally recognized Level 2 Qualifications in Maths, English, Computers, Employability. Nationally the ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) gives a great induction to Microsoft Packages: amongst others; Excel, PowerPoint and Word and is often described as equivalent to five GCSE's (grade A-C). These can make a real difference for someone returning to work or starting out in the workplace.

If you’re interested please contact the Exchange Group:

Your LOCAL Centre address: First Floor Newcastle Library Ironmarket Newcastle- Under- Lyme ST5 1AT

T: 01782 713165         E: NewcastleUL@exchangegroup.co.uk


Staffordshire Moorlands & Newcastle: Introduction to Volunteering


The Volunteer Centre are running a course called “Introduction to Volunteering”. This is a course which has been written and designed by staff at the Volunteer Centre and focuses on Volunteering for the individual and what to expect from an organisation as a volunteer along with rights and responsibilities and the legalities of volunteering. It has been accredited by the Open College Network at Level 1.

The course will run 3 times per year in each of the North Staffordshire's districts - Moorlands, Newcastle and Stoke. The course consists of 3 half day sessions and is open to anyone volunteering or those who are wanting to volunteer. It is free to anyone who is unemployed and costs £16 per person for anyone else.

The first course in Leek starts on 10 July at Haregate in Leek at 10am. If you have any volunteers who may be interested in booking on to this course then please book through the Volunteer Centre. This really will help you to support your volunteers and help us to support you.

For more information please contact:
Tracy Ellis, Staffordshire Moorlands & Newcastle Volunteer Centre Co-ordinator
T: 01538 398240/01782 661173        M: 07875101267


S3SN Support Programme for Third Sector Representatives


Free Action Learning Sessions for individuals who already attend or would like to attend partnership meetings. Voluntary and community organisations increasingly need to understand the current funding and commissioning environment, the priorities of public sector partners, and opportunities for collaboration with other organisations. 

This support programme will help you and your organisation to understand:
·         How Central and local government work
·         How to work positively with statutory and private sector partners
·         The skills and behaviours’ required to have a positive relationships with partners
·         Evidencing your views to increase to your opportunities.

The programme is delivered over 5 sessions but you can opt to join just one or two.  It will be delivered using action learning sessions that recognise and enhance the skills, experience and knowledge of voluntary and community sector organisations in the context of today’s public, private and voluntary sector environment.  It will also use materials designed by the National Association for Voluntary and Community Action (NAVCA)

Session 1:        The impact of national and local policies and strategy on your organisation
            23 July 2012 10.00am – 1.00pm Lichfield District CVS
Session 2:        Skills for working with public and private sector bodies  
1 August 2012 10.00am -1.00 pm Lichfield District CVS
Session 3         The role and responsibilities of being a voice for your community
6 September 2012 10.00am -1.00pm Lichfield District CVS
Session 4         Skills and behaviours for influence
14 September 2012 10.00am -1.00pm Lichfield District CVS
Session 5         Skills for research, finding the evidence
24 September 2012 10.00am -1.00pm Lichfield District CVS

To book or for more details contact Jane Swindall: janeswindall@ldcvs.org.uk
T: 01543 303030         F: 01543 303034


ARCH - Tenancy Training


Gain a certificate that tells landlords, friends and family you have the skills to manage your own home! Looking to take up a new tenancy, maybe for the first time? Or already a tenant, at risk of losing your home?

Learn the following skills to help you get or keep the keys to your home: Budgeting, filling in forms, setting up utility bills, improving your communications.

The course is just 2 hours a week for 3 weeks and is being held at several venues across Stoke-on-Trent - daytimes, evenings and occasional Saturdays.

To find out more or book a place, call the Arch Independent Housing Service on 01782 683719


Volunteers needed to help at Carmountside Primary School


Carmountside Primary School, Abbey Hulton is looking for retired teachers with Christian Value to support pupils with literacy and /or music on a voluntary basis.

For further information contact Desiree Elliott (chair of Governors) on:
E: desiree.elliott@hotmail.com        T: 078 3434 4842

10,000 Second Hand Books for Sale

(All proceeds to go to Englesea Brook Chapel and Museum)

Venue:            Hassall Road Methodist Chapel Alsager ST7 2HH.  Donations of books can be brought to Hassell Road. (Parking is available outside)
Time:               Visit us any Friday 10am - 2pm. Also hoping to open on certain Bank Holidays (look at the Englesea Brook Website)
Books genre: Biography  Travel Geography History Literature Theology Crime Sport Children’s Local History Christianity Art  Bible Studies etc.
Includes:         Refreshments and an exhibition of Methodist Heritage.

For more information contact 01270 625278 or 820836.
Volunteers needed: If you would like to volunteer on Fridays please contact Rev.Malcolm Lorimer 01270 625278 maxcricket@btinternet.com



Request to lodge with local Christian Family


Student looking to lodge with a Christian family in Stoke-on-Trent after graduation.
If you are willing to rent a room out to a lodger please can you contact Rebekah Boland to discuss further on 07754 566166.


The Kerygma Bus: Bringing Communities Together


The Bus is a mobile way in which to impact the local community. The bus is a non threatening environment which helps local churches to reach out to children, young people and the local community.

The Kerygma Bus is a great local recourse for your church, community project, school or special event.

To find out more information about The Kerygma Bus, contact Colin Stephenson on:

T: 01785 614109 | 07854 452608.               E: kerygma@hotmail.co.uk


Focus Christian Fellowship


Now meeting at the Tunstall Methodist Church Centre from 6.45 to 9.45pm.

Ages 18+, all welcome, an opportunity to meet spiritually and socially.

Future dates:
·         Saturday 12 May
·         Saturday 9 June
·         Saturday 14 July
·         Saturday 11 August (with Faith Supper)

For more information contact Andrew on 01782 824794


Street Pastors: Looking for Volunteers


Stoke on Trent Street Pastors are looking to extend their voluntary work to cover schools in the Stoke on Trent area.  This would entail being part of a team of two or three persons and being available as a team to be outside designated schools at school start and finish times.  This might lead on to participating during the school day within schools that are willing to allow pastors to be involved.  This may include talking to the children in their classes or even being in the playground during play times.

The age limits for this is 18+ with no upper age limit.  This would be an ideal opportunity for people who have retired, either singles or couples, who find themselves with time on their hands and feel The Lord is calling them into some form of ministry.

Please prayerfully consider this. If you feel you would like to give it a try please contact Terry English:  E: terry.english50@gmail.com          T: 07858 782816


Nightchurch: A chill out lounge for clubbers in Hanley

Open Fridays 10:30pm - late
Nightchurch is a Christian ecumenical organisation with volunteers from across North Staffordshire.
We're seeking new, warm and friendly volunteers with a heart for 18 - 30's to come visit this exciting project. No previous experience required. All ages welcome.

For more info, please contact: Mark & Clare:
Nightchurch c/o The Saltbox • Gitana Street • Hanley • Stoke-on-Trent • ST1 1DY
M: 07535 242906                      E. info@nightchurch.net              T. 01782 207200            www.nightchurch.net             www.facebook.com/groups/nchurch

Nightshift Creative Missions Week

Creative Missions Week Sun 26 Aug - Sat 1 Sept 2012 Stoke-on-Trent, UK.

What is Nightshift? A Creative Missions Week starting with Campfire team time, based in Stoke-on-Trent. Bringing together creative missionaries from around the World, to have fun, laughter and enjoy community. To participate in 2 nights creative urban mission in the city centre, helping enhance the exciting work of Nightchurch (a late night chill out cafe see www.nightchurch.net).

Who is it for? Christian Artists, Break Dancers, Street Dancers, Entertainers, MCs, Poets, other Creative Missionaries & people who love to pray and make new friends, from across the UK, USA, Europe and around the World. If you're aged 18+ with a heart after God, then come chat to us!

Cost: £ 265 / € 325 / $ 400 per person. There are 12 places on the team

How do I apply? Email us for an application form. Application deadline: 14th July 2012

For more info contact Mark & Clare Dawson:
E: info@nshift.org.uk  W: www.nshift.org.uk  T: +44(0)7867 800099
F: facebook.com/groups/nshift


Christian Meditation


Meditation is a way of simplicity, silence and stillness. The practice of meditation in the Christian tradition actually comes to us from the early Christian monks - the Desert Fathers and Mothers. In Christianity the tradition of meditation became forgotten until 30 years ago when the rediscovery of this contemplative part of the Christian faith began. Meditation is now in the Christian tradition is attracting worldwide and rapidly growing interest.

The following groups are exploring Christian meditation following the teachings of the Benedictine monk – Fr John Main - who has brought back this tradition to our attention.

Alton Third Sunday of each month at 7pm at St John the Baptist Alton Parish Room
For any information please contact:
Mary Tyers on 01538 308687            E:  marytyers@aol.com
Or Maggie Connor on 01538 308588           E: maggie@altoncastle.co.uk,

May Bank Monday evenings at 7.30pm in May Bank. For further information contact:
Carmel on 01782 878993       E:  carmel.dennison@ntlworld.com

More information can be found on the World Community of Christian Meditation’s website www.wccm.org


Gym and Activity Centre...YMCA North Staffordshire


We are pleased to announce that our new Gym and Activity Centre is now OPEN!
Our gym is equipped with the very latest equipment with membership costing just £15 month or £3 pay as you go.

For sports and activities, contact our Sports and Activities Team
T: 01782 222 388             E: tracey.mears@northstaffsymca.org.uk

For conferences and hospitality, contact our Hospitality Manager Susan Foster
T: 01782 222 376              E: susan.foster@northstaffsymca.org.uk


Updated: Mission Shaped Ministry


MSM is an exciting one year learning experience for those seeking to develop fresh expressions or wanting to see their existing churches re-shaped for mission.

The mission shaped ministry Leadership Team recently decided to postpone the MSM Wolverhampton 2012 start date to September 2012 to coincide with the Academic Year 2012 -2013. Therefore, the dates of the course are as follows:

Date:               Sat 22 Sept 2012 through to Sat 15 June 2013. (Inc. seven week nights)
Time:               Saturdays from 09.00 - 17.00 & Wednesdays from 19.30-21.45.
Venue:            Trinity Methodist Church Histons Hill Codsall Wolverhampton WV8 2ER. Includes a residential weekend at Shallowford House Norton Bridge Nr Stone ST15 0NZ.

Costs £299 per person. Price covers all materials, refreshments and the weekend away. Financial support may be available.

For more information please contact Anne Riddle on 07974 197806 or 01782 769532  
E: anne.riddle1@ntlworld.com             W: missionshapedministry.org/westmidlands12


Grounds Maintenance, Landscaping & Tree Services


We are a local small business offering grounds maintenance services to schools, nurseries and commercial businesses in Stoke and the surrounding area as well as members of the public. We have a Christian ethos and offer a reduced rate to churches and charities.

Commercial & Private, Reliable, Trustworthy, Professional.

Call Brian: 0782 5566677         Claire: 01270 820364           W:www.groundsmaintenancesolutions.co.uk


Free


A group for adults with special needs or learning difficulties.

Date:               Every third Sunday of the month – next meeting will be 18 march
Venue:            Penkhull Christian fellowship • Franklin Road • Penkhull
Time:               6pm

For more information contact Eleri on 07912 887026.


Fair Trade Group in Newcastle


We welcome any new members to join us.  We meet about once per month, usually on a Monday evening, and are engaged in promoting the cause of fair trade throughout the borough of Newcastle.  We've recently achieved Fairtrade status for the Borough and need to work hard to maintain it.

Anyone interested to contact Hilary on 632895 | 07983 983840   



Chronic Disease Self-Management Programme


Do you have a long-term illness or chronic health condition/s such as: arthritis, asthma, diabetes, heart disease, ME, MS and Parkinson’s disease.

Then why not: gain knowledge and skills to manage your long-term condition/s by joining this 6 week Self Management Programme at a venue near you! It’s free and has no known side effects!

What is Chronic Disease Self-Management Programme (CDSMP)?

The CDSMP helps people to manage their health and improve their quality of life. It is a free programme that enables you to take more control of your health condition/s on a day to day basis by:

·         Managing difficult emotions
·         Communicating better
·         Understanding medication usage
·         Eating healthy
·         Learning to problem solve

Just to name a few…

If you are an adult (18 or over) and want to know more about the CDSMP or want to take part please contact us on:
T: 0845 600 8644           F: 0845 600 8645         E: infocdsmp@bmeunitedltd.co.uk
We would ideally like to train a group of 12 to 15 people, we will provide lunch and support for venue hire may be available.

Woman’s Group


Are you, or do you know, an Asylum Seeker or Refugee with children?
Are you feeling isolated and lonely?
If so, then come to our Women’s Group:

Date:               Every Wednesday
Time:               10.30am – 12.30pm
Venue:            St Mark’s Church Shelton Snow Hill ST1 4LJ

There are supervised Crèche facilities available for your child/children.

For any further information or if you would like to co-ordinate delivery of provisions, please contact Julia Roberts:
E: julhindi@yahoo.co.uk                   T: 07989 980016           


The Lounge Booking


Need a place to hire for meetings or training days?
Why not book the Lounge in the heart of the city centre. £8 per hour.

Venue:            The Lounge Gitana Street Hanley ST1 1DY

For more information contact Rachael Dabbs: 01782 207200     E: Rachael@saltbox.org.uk


Healing Rooms


No appointment necessary and there is no charge

What are healing rooms?   For people in need of physical, mental or emotional healing to come and encounter the healing power of God through Jesus Christ.
What do we offer?                A trained, caring, ministry team who will listen & pray for you.
When are we open?              Every Wednesday  
Opening Times:                      6:30pm – 8:00pm
Place:                                Beacon House of Prayer 550 High Street Sandyford ST6  5PD

For more info go to thebeaconinfo@btconnect.com


SALTBOX


North Staffordshire Community Chaplaincy (NSCC) houses and supports ex-offenders in rental properties. We are always in need of good quality furniture and “white goods” to stock the properties we manage. We have offices in Podmore Street where we can store items and refurbish them if required. We would like donations of  good quality, reusable furniture and “White Goods” for example:-

• Three Piece Suites and Settees
• Dining Tables and Chairs
• Wardrobes and Bedside Cabinets
• Single Beds and Bedding
• Kitchen appliances, Cookers, Fridges/Freezers and Microwaves
• Washing Machines

Your support to the charity with items will help us to give clients the opportunity to change their lives.

For further information contact us at: Unit 19 • Podmore Street • Burslem • ST6 2EZ    
T: 01782 252708


Saltbox database


Sadly, in December the Saltbox experienced a computer server problem which resulted in us having to use an older edition of our database for our Christmas mailshot.

1.      If you have been a regular recipient of the Saltbox newsletter for more than a year, you should continue to receive it as usual.
2.      However, if you did not receive our Christmas Saltbox newsletter then could you please email Rachael with your home address to make sure that we have your correct details on file E: Rachael@saltbox.org.uk   T: 01782 207200.
3.      We are also happy to receive requests from new folk who haven’t previously received our Saltbox newsletter.  Therefore, please feel free to forward this email to your Christian friends & ask them if they would like to send us their details & we will include them in future mailings.


PhoneLink Volunteers Needed - Telephone befrienders needed

Are you a ‘people person’?  Are you a good listener?   Can you spare an hour or two a week to offer a friendly ear to older and vulnerable members of society in Stoke on Trent?
PhoneLink needs you!
Telephone befriending is a rich and rewarding way to volunteer your time. No qualifications or experience necessary – though warmth, compassion and a sense of humour are a definite advantage!
To enrich your life and make a real difference locally, join us at Phone Link.
Contact Zi Makhiwa for more information T: 01782 265651         E: Zi@saltbox.org.uk


Vacancy: Receptionist at Lichfield Cathedral


An opportunity has arisen for a temporary receptionist at Lichfield Cathedral which may subsequently become permanent. The post-holder will be responsible for welcoming visitors to the Cathedral offices, dealing with all telephone and email enquiries and managing incoming and outgoing post. Additionally, the post-holder will manage the print and photocopying facility at the Cathedral and provide an administrative support service to the Friends of Lichfield Cathedral and other Cathedral staff.
Ideally you should have reception experience, have excellent oral and written communication skills, good IT skills and the ability to multi-task. It is a requirement that the post-holder is committed to the Cathedral’s Christian ethos, vision and ministry.
Salary:             £15,000 per annumHours:             36.25 hours per week (Monday to Friday from 8.45 am to 5.00 pm)     Contract:        Initial 6-month fixed term contractHolidays:         24 days per annum plus bank holidays Closing Date: Monday 16 July 2012
Probable Interview Date: Wednesday 25 July 2012
To obtain more information, please download the job description. To apply for this position, please submit the application form and voluntary declaration form by email or post (CVs alone will not be accepted):
Email: recruitment@lichfield-cathedral.org This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it


Pastoral Mentor: Church Lane Evangelical Church

An exciting challenge at Church Lane Evangelical Church: Stafford Pastoral mentor


Are you the person that could work with us?

We are an evangelical church family who are looking for someone to come and join us and spend up to two years mentoring willing volunteers. We see mentoring as an exciting challenge to help as grow as individuals and as a church. We need a Christian who will help and encourage other Christians to explore how they can serve others, for example, through leadership roles.

We also see this as an opportunity for someone to find out more of the plans God has for him or her.  It’s all part of the plans we have for the church and the trust we have in God to take us on a journey.
We will provide……

·         a salary (or salary and accommodation package)
·         support and encouragement
·         a church family to belong to.

These details are deliberately brief because we would encourage you to come and visit, talk to us and see firsthand the church family that we want our new Pastoral Mentor to get along side.

For more information please visit our website www.church-lane.org.uk          
T: 01785 254331         E: office@church-lane.org.uk            

Closing date for applications; Friday 6 July 2012





Dear friends

In 2001 a national survey placed Stoke-on-Trent bottom of a list of 376 towns & cities in England & Wales.

On 31 October 2001, around 200 local Christians met together for a one-off prayer gathering using 2 Chronicles 7.14 as a basis for prayer, worship & sharing.

Many of you will know that this gathering became the springboard for the local 2C7 prayer movement.  During the next seven years monthly city-wide prayer gatherings were supplemented with other seasons of united prayer.  We organised weeks of unbroken 24-7 prayer, specific months of unbroken prayer & also two periods of 40 days of prayer & fasting.
I believe that one of the significant outcomes of our united praying was the emergence & raising up of the Beacon House of Prayer. Over the last decade such houses of prayer have been birthed in different parts of the UK. I am honoured to be able to say that God has gifted the Body of Christ in North Staffs with one of the best developed & best resourced prayer houses in the nation.
In 2012, the Beacon House of Prayer launches a year of unbroken prayer under the title “Why not pray for a change?”  

I am writing this email to you to ask if you would consider individually supporting this strategic initiative?

There are two specific ways that individuals like you can practically get involved:

i) Pray where you are: 
·         Choose to pray & fast once a month (or once a week). 
·         No need to visit the Beacon HOP, simply pray & fast at home or work.
·         Complete the simple form on the ‘get involved’ website section: www.whynotprayforachange.co.uk/get-involved

ii) Pray at the Beacon House of Prayer:
·         We are looking for people who will register for a prayer watch weekly, fortnightly or monthly
·         Visit for one or two hours
·         Choose either day or night
·         The Beacon need 100 local people to register – be one of the 100!
·         Sign up on the website & then choose your specific dates & times:  www.whynotprayforachange.co.uk/signup
If you would like to talk to one of the Beacon team call 01782 827238 or email: whynotpray@btconnect.com (see Cc above).

Finally, your local church can also get involved.  The Beacon is looking for 25 local churches who will offer to come & pray on two Saturdays during 2012. Why not talk to your church leader & encourage them to think about getting more people praying from your church.

Having sought God together using the ‘IF’ from the Old Testament (2 Chronicles 7.14) many of us are now believing that we will see the promise of the ‘IF’ from the New Testament - “If you believe you will see the GLORY of God” (John 11.40). This year of unbroken prayer in 2012 may be part of the ushering in of such GLORY…to that end, let me encourage you to play your part & get involved.

Every Blessing
Lloyd


Report from the World Prayer Assembly From Brian Mills:

“The New Wave is Coming”


The World Prayer Assembly in Indonesia in May was the most significant International prayer gathering I have ever been part of.   It was truly tri-generational (Abrahams, Isaacs and Jacobs), multi-ethnic and global.   Between 9,000 and 10,000 participants from 86 nations attended the Assembly. Each morning and evening we had plenary sessions and each afternoon there were two two-hour Track sessions on various aspects of global prayer and ministry spheres, including politics, business, media, health, poverty etc.

On 17th May we joined with 100,000 Indonesians at their national stadium for five hours of prayer, praise and worship.   This was satellited to 386 locations across Indonesia, involving a conservative estimate of 3.7 million people, and was broadcast through God TV around the world.   Much of this was spectacular!  Everything was twice as large as anticipated and planned for.   The Indonesians were overwhelmed logistically, yet managed to provide for everyone – an amazing accomplishment. Even so, over 2,000 applications had to be refused!   There was tangible evidence of the Presence of God in the gatherings, with accompanying signs.   The impact is already being experienced around the world, with testimonies coming in of the way God has blessed and is blessing the participants.

We were based at Sentul City International Convention & Prayer Centre, with an auditorium for 15,000 people.   Next door there is a 12 storey tower, the top storey of which is designated for prayer.   24 hour prayer took place whilst we were there and continues throughout the year. Every time I looked in there were hundreds praying there.  This is one of many hundreds throughout Indonesia.   Sentul City is a city in transformation, having been already declared corruption-free, through the prayers of God’s children.  

500 children formed the Children’s Prayer Track, and nearly 20,000 children participated in the stadium event.   A 15 year-old girl told her story of how the prayers of children over a three year period had brought about the change of her neighbourhood, with brothels closing and the area being cleaned up.   Children led the praying one evening, and at our final session they came with a rose for the adults, and to pray with them as well.   Over 2,000 were under the age of 35.   Each lunch time was spent with senior leaders (including me) – they questioned us about our lives and influences.   And one evening they also led the whole Assembly in praying for issues on their hearts.   They pleaded with us older ones to “run with us – don’t pass the baton and then abandon us”.   They asked me publically to lead in repentance prayer, and then be involved with other leaders in washing the feet of some of the young people.   You can imagine how moving this was.

Large delegations came from S. Korea and from China.   The Koreans who hosted the first International Prayer Assembly in Seoul in 1984, jointly hosted this one with the Indonesians.   There was a wonderful blend of honour, respect and appreciation.   For most of the Chinese this was the first international gathering they had ever been at.   Those from China that I prayed with (maybe 100 in all) were deeply touched by God’s Spirit.   The same was happening through the other leaders too.

A wave of prayer is undoubtedly building.   China is establishing 6,000 houses of prayer - they call them "Walls of Prayer".   One ministry alone has seen a 726% increase in the numbers of people coming to Christ in the past 7 years, compared to the previous 7 years - ever since they started to emphasise prayer with their "prayer walls" (I am talking about 51 million people).   Together with towers of prayer (in Indonesia) and 24/7 houses of prayer around the world, there is an exponential acceleration of the kingdom of God taking place in those nations pursuing this vision.  

There is an amazing spiritual harvest being reaped in many parts of the world.   Through the internet alone, over 75,000 people per day are praying to receive Christ.   Last year 150 million people read the Gospel on the web, and over 19 million prayed to receive Christ.   That is only one part of the story - the real picture is bigger still!  One well-known leader described this as the most pivotal week of his entire ministry.   There were some fantastic worship times, led by international musicians, and plenty of praying in different ways.   We had an excellent media team producing videos to stimulate prayer, and recording everything that took place.   We praise God for the many blessings flowing from this Assembly all over the world. Most of the plenary sessions and the whole of the stadium prayer rally are already available and can be viewed on the website www.wpa2012.org  



END  



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