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Monday 20 August 2012

Updates & Information: Fri 17 August


Dear Friends

Please find below events, resources & three vacancies which may prove of interest - feel free to forward to others.

Encouragingly, over the 30,000 tickets have already been sold for the National Day of Prayer & Worship at Wembley Stadium (29 Sept). This will be a very significant Christian event…consider coming along with folk from your congregation.                     

1.      Wetley Rocks Methodist Church Flower Festival... 24-27 Aug 2012
2.      Mow Cop 2nd Book Sales... 25-27 Aug 2012
3.      Revival Prayer & Worship... Weds 5 Sept
4.      RubyGirl UK Charity Fundraiser Event... Fri 7 Sept
5.      Pastor Dave Ayling returns to Hanley Elim... 8-9 Sept
6.      Arise... Sun 9 Sept
7.      at7 presents: Godfrey Birtill... Sun 9 Sept 2012
8.      Newcastle Baptist Church: “Jesus and Harvest”... Tues 11 Sept
9.      Encountering the Glory: an IFM (UK) Conference… 20-22 Sept
10.  My Soul Sings… 21-22 September
11.  Staffordshire Third Sector Network: Question Time…  Tues 25 Sept
12.  Wembley 2012: National Day of Prayer & Worship... Sat 29 Sept
13.  Farm 2 Grow... Events in 2012
14.  Updated: Mission Shaped Ministry ... Sept 2012 – June 2013
15.  Breathe City Church Open House Conference... Sat 6 Oct
16.  Pastor Bill Crawford returns to Hanley Elim... 13-14 Oct
17.  Trade Aid: A Taste of India... 17 Oct &  15 Nov
18.  Paul Scanlon @ Breathe City Church... Sat 20 Oct
19.  Hanley Baptist presents: Peter Gladwin... Sat 20 Oct
20.  Connected Worship… 2-4 Nov
21.  Focus Christian Fellowship... Sat 3 Nov
22.  John Bell to visit Lichfield in November 2012
23.  Pastor John Hollick returns to Hanley Elim... 10-11 Nov
24.  Fire 2012... 23-24 Nov
25.  2012 UCB Leaders Meeting
26.  Nightchurch
27.  Christian Meditation
28.  Street Pastors: Looking for Volunteers
29.  Free
30.  Swanbank Coffee Lounge
31.  Swanbank Coffee Lounge volunteers needed!
32.  Rock UK
33.  Fair Trade Group in Newcastle
34.  Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank
35.  Breathe City Church Distribution Centre
36.  Women’s Group
37.  Healing Rooms
38.  Free Adult Training Courses
39.  ARCH Tenancy Training
40.  Volunteers needed to help at Primary School
41.  The Kerygma Bus: Bringing Communities Together
42.  Chronic Disease Self-Management Programme
43.  Grounds Maintenance, Landscaping & Tree Services
44.  Community Scrap Shack
45.  SALTBOX
46.  The Lounge Booking
47.  Saltbox Database
48.  Cross Rhythms: Properties to Let
49.  PhoneLink Volunteers - Telephone befrienders needed
50.  Vacancy: Chester and Stoke-on-Trent Methodist District Safeguarding Officer
51.  Vacancy: Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank Project Manager
52.  Vacancy: UCB Web Developer/Programmer
53.  2012: Why not pray for a change?

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.  If you’ve not already visited this outstanding local prayer facility then why not call in?  

Every Blessing
Lloyd

Lloyd Cooke
Chief Executive
Saltbox Christian Centre

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

Wetley Rocks Methodist Church Flower Festival... 24-27 Aug 2012

Wetley Rocks Methodist Church Flower Festival to celebrate 85yrs

Dates:              Fri 24 - Mon 27 August 2012
Church open: Fri, Sat and Mon 10am- 6pm, Sun 12,30pm - 5pm
Theme:            All things bright and beautiful
Refreshments, stalls, everyone is welcome


Second Hand Book Sales


20,000 Second Hand Books for Sale (Mow Cop Methodist Church)
Dates:              Sat 25-27 August 10.30am-5.00pm
                        Tues 28-31 August 12-8.30pm + Sat 1 Sept 10.30am-5.00pm
Address:          Mow Cop Methodist Church, Primitive Street, Mow Cop, Stoke-on-Trent, ST7 3NW

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

Revival prayer and worship... Weds 5 Sept


Venue:            Beacon house of prayer, Sandyford House, 550-552 High Street, Stoke-on-Trent, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire
Time:               8pm – 10.30pm
"A night filled with prophetic prayer and worship, as we believe God for a massive outpouring of His Spirit over our city and nation"

For more info contact Taps on
07921 088851


RubyGirl UK Charity Fundraiser Event... Fri 7 Sept


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

Date:               Friday 7 Sept, 7-10pm (doors open 6.30pm for purchases)
Venue:            Moat House Hotel
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.)

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


Pastor Dave Ayling returns to Hanley Elim... 8-9 Sept


Celebrating 50 years of Worship and Ministry with:

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

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


Arise... Sunday 9 Sept


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

Date:              Sunday 9 Sept 
Venue:           Bridge Centre, Birches Head Road, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST2 8DD
Time:              7.00-9.00pm

For more information           T: 01782 683781

at7 presents: Godfrey Birtill... Sun 9 Sept


‘at7’ is a contemporary worship event for all ages and is a joint venture between Market Drayton Methodist Church and St Mary’s Church, Market Drayton.

The worship will be led by Godfrey Birtill. Godfrey is from Lincoln and is an internationally well known worship leader who has a unique ability to bring together the good news with prophetic intercession and worship in a dynamic blend. He has led worship events internationally and released many worship songs including “Outrageous Grace” and “Just One Touch from the King”. He will also be leading worship in the National Day of Prayer event on 29 September 2012.

Date:               Sunday 9th Sept 2012
Time:               7:00pm
Venue:            Market Drayton Methodist Church Shrewsbury Road, Market Drayton, TF9 3DL

Please call Mark Savill on 07773 748819 for more information.


Newcastle Baptist Church: “Jesus and Harvest”... Tues 11 Sept


Date:               Tuesday 11 Sept 
Time:               7.30 pm
Venue:            Newcastle Baptist Church, London Road, Newcastle

'Jesus and Harvest' by Alison Barnett of Jews for Jesus

How Jesus fulfils three of the main feasts in the Old Testament -
  • We look at the Autumn Feasts which are; Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles), and Rosh Hashanah (Feast of Trumpets).
  • We will give an in-depth study of the Autumn Feasts and shed light on the significance and connection of the Autumn Feasts in the Old and New Testament.
  • We also show how Jesus is the fulfilment of the Autumn Feasts which were instituted at their set times to point to him.

    Everybody welcome, no charge will be made.
Contact Alan Markham 01782 680589 for other details


Encountering the Glory: an IFM (UK) Conference… 20-22 Sept


Worship, teaching and workshops with Bishop Eddie Mulenga (Zambia), Tony and Irene Fournier (USA) and hosted by Jim Ford.

Venue: Penkhull Christian Fellowship, S-o-T, ST4 5DS

Tel: Jim Ford- 07747 843337              Darren Holmes- 07799 580826
Check out “Encountering the Glory” on Facebook!


My Soul Sings… 21-22 Sept


Teaching and worship led by Paul and Vicky Miche (from Bath City Church).

Venue:            Trentham Parish Church, Stoke-on-Trent
Date:               21 Sept from 19.30-21.30 and 22 September from 09.30-16.30
Cost:                £10 per person

Register on trenthamparishchurchweb@gmail.com then pay on the door!


Staffordshire Third Sector Network: Question Time…  Tues 25 Sept


Staffordshire Third Sector Network invites you to a question time event with the prospective  Police and Crime Commissioner candidates for Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent

Date:               25 Sept 2012
Time:               10.00am – 1.00pm
Venue:            Rising Brook Baptist Church, Stafford, ST17 9LT


Wembley 2012 – National Day of Prayer & Worship… Sat 29 Sept


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 Sept 2012
Venue:            Wembley Stadium
Time:               2.00 - 6.30pm
Tickets:           £10

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


Farm 2 Grow... Events in 2012

August 2012

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


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


Breathe City Church Open House Conference... Sat 6 Oct


Date:               Saturday 6 Oct
Venue:            Breathe City Church
Time:               9:00am – 4:00pm
Cost:                Tickets are £15 (inc. refreshments & lunch)

Speakers will include Stephen Matthew from Abundant Life, Clive Urquhart from Kingdom Faith and Ps James Galloway from Breathe City Church. This conference is designed for Church leaders and their teams.

Further information: Breathe City Church, Campus: City, Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent, England, ST2 8BY.
Office: 01782 537079
Web: www.breathecitychurch.com


Pastor Bill Crawford returns to Hanley Elim... 13-14 Oct


Pastor Bill Crawford and his wife


Saturday 13th Oct 2.00-4.30pm - "Meet and Greet"

Sunday 14th Oct 10.30am and 6.30pm - Pastor Bill will be ministering to us at both services


Elim Pentecostal Church, Bucknall Old Road, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 2AF.

Tel: 01782 279092 or go to www.hanleyelim.co.uk for more details.



Hanley Baptist presents: Peter Gladwin... Sat 20 Oct
Peter Gladwin was the victim of a domestic fire, involved in gang culture, drugs and drink but was transformed when he heard the gospel. He has written an autobiography “Out of the Ashes” which has been changing lives. Now he travels around UK sharing his faith and life experiences with others.

Date:               Saturday 20 Oct
Venue:            Hanley Baptist Church
Time:               7pm

This is a free event and open to all.

For more information ring Doreen English on 07709 009647


 


Trade Aid “A Taste of India”… Weds 17 Oct and Thurs 15 Nov

Fairtrade shop at Methodist Book Centre, Hanley

A Taste of India (curry, crafts and Christmas presents)

Dates:              Wednesday 17 October and Thursday 15 November
Time:               6.30pm-8.30pm
Place:              The Lounge & Trade Aid, Gitana Street, Hanley, ST1 1DY
Tickets:           £2.00 (incl. £1.00 off voucher when you spend £5.00 or more)

To buy tickets contact Ann on 01782 212146 (shop) or 01782 817720 (home)


Paul Scanlon @ Breathe City Church: “Communication Masterclass”... Sat 20 Oct


Paul Scanlon is bringing his Communication Masterclass to Breathe City Church, Stoke-on-Trent.

The Communication Masterclass is a day of training in effective & relevant communication skills. It’s for people from all walks of life. Anyone who feels that effective communication is essential to their vocation, calling or sphere of interest should book their place.  The day will be divided into three parts: i) you the communicator, ii) your message, iii) your voice. Or in other words, finding yourself, finding your message & finding your voice.

This Masterclass is less about technique & style & more about you the communicator. Most problems & challenges with quality communication are in the person, not the presentation.

Date:               Saturday 20 Oct
Time:               9.30am-3.30pm
Venue:            Breathe City Church, Campus: City

Tickets available from: www.eventbrite.co.uk/event/3583848387/eorge?ebtv=C


Connected Worship… 2-4 Nov 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… Sat 3 Nov


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 Nov


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.


Pastor John Hollick returns to Hanley Elim... 10-11 Nov


Celebrating 50 years of Worship and Ministry

Pastor John Hollick and his wife, Brenda Hollick

Saturday 10th Nov 2.00-4.30pm - "Meet and Greet"
Sunday 11th Nov 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.
Tel: 01782 279092 or go to www.hanleyelim.co.uk for more details.


Fire 2012... 23-24 Nov


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 Nov 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.

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.  


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

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


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


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.


Swanbank Coffee Lounge


The Coffee lounge is a fantastic new coffee venue in the heart of Burslem.

With unbelievable coffee and a great atmosphere, the coffee lounge is a wonderful place to meet friends, drop in for lunch or just come and relax.

Whatever your needs the coffee lounge is for you.

Open weekdays 10.00am to 3pm     Saturdays 10.00am to 2pm.

Great Coffee. Great Food. Great place.


Swanbank Coffee Lounge volunteers needed!


The Coffee Lounge welcomes Volunteer staff to help run the business on a daily basis. Hours and times to suit the individual.

For further details please contact Mrs Jacqui Gillon Coffee Lounge Manage on:
T: 01782 575129/07806 987439        E: swanbank.thecoffeelounge@gmail.com


Rock UK


Rock UK is a Christian Charity that has been providing facilities for Christian conferences, retreats, church family weekends, youth and children's groups for the past 90 years.

We offer both catering and self catering options and we also have a number of adventurous activities including Climbing, High Ropes, Open Canoeing, Kayaking, Mountain Biking and many more. We have 4 Centres based in Northamptonshire, Wales, Kent and on the Scottish Borders.

If you require further information then please contact:
Jon Munt       T:07557471616           E: jon.munt@rockuk.org      W: www.rockuk.org

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   
Or e-mail: hilary@jonesten.freeserve.co.uk


Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank

This exciting new interdenominational project is based out of Wesley Hall Methodist, Sneyd Green and is working with seven churches across the city to support people in crisis with food boxes.

Professionals, such as Health Visitors, Project Workers and Social Care, are able to refer families or individuals into the service, provide them with a voucher that they are able to exchange at any one of the seven distribution point Churches across the city.  Food is donated through Churches, Schools, supermarkets, businesses and from individuals.

So how can you and your church get involved?
·         Donating food and doing food drives within your church
·         Volunteering at supermarkets to raise awareness and collect food
·         Volunteer at the food bank hub in food sorting, weighing and distribution
·         Volunteer at the various food distribution sites

There are plenty of volunteering opportunities for as little or as much time as you have and we are always looking to churches to raise funds and for food.

Please get in touch with Mary-Anne, Sue or Ron for more information on:
T: 01782 281 818        or visit: www.stokeontrent.foodbank.org.uk


Breathe City Church Distribution Centre


Providing brand new clothes and food for people in need throughout the city. 
If you would like further information in how you can help then please email admin@whencentre.org alternatively if you are aware of someone who could benefit then referral forms are available from www.breathecitychurch.com or by emailing admin@whencentre.org


Women’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        W: www.hanleyteamministry.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. Based at the Beacon House of Prayer
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:                                       BHOP 550 High Street Sandyford ST6 5PD

For more info go to thebeaconinfo@btconnect.com


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


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 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

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


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.

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


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
E: scrapstore@hotmail.co.uk    W: www.communityscrapshack.btck.co.uk

Elsing Street Fenton Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2PR


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


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


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.


Cross Rhythms: Properties to Let


Cross Rhythms has two properties to let:
As part of the Cross Rhythms building, we have the following spaces available to let:

1) Office Space
Situated in Conway House above La Bella Napoli Restaurant and the Cross Rhythms radio station reception.

Office Unit (self contained) 1803 square feet of prime office space comprising; large open plan office, 3 more offices, studio/ sound proof room and toilet facilities. Access via stairway or lift and keypad doors. Internet and Phone already connected.

Part-let may be considered.

For more information please click here: http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/to-let/office-space-available.pdf

2) Shop Unit:
The property is situated in a parade of shops in the Cultural Quarter, close to the Regent Theatre. The property is between La Bella Napoli, a long standing Italian Restaurant, and the Cross Rhythms Community Radio Station reception. There is a ground floor and first floor (approx 1,200 square feet).

For more information please click here:
http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/to-let/shop-front-space-available.pdf Contact: Rob Thompson 01782 877303


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: Chester and Stoke-on-Trent Methodist District Safeguarding Officer


A suitably skilled and experienced person is sought as Lead Officer on all aspects of the District’s work in safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.

Salary £8,500 p.a. for 9 h.p.w worked flexibly.

An information and application pack can be obtained from the Methodist District Office
E: chester.stoke@btconnect.com    T: 01270 627774
Closing date for applications: 14 September 2012


Vacancy: Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank Project Manager


Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank is a new initiative within the city looking for a dynamic self starter who is experienced at managing and developing new projects.  S-o-T Foodbank has received funding for two years to expand the cities Foodbank, managing the scheme, its existing seven distribution centres and expanding this to ensure citywide coverage.

·         Part-time, 20 hours per week (flexible to suit)
·         Salary: c.£10k per annum (£18,500k p/r)

Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank provides three day emergency food parcels for people in crisis and works in partnership with churches across the city as well as a variety of voluntary and statutory providers to ensure beneficiaries are supported during their crisis period.

The successful candidate must have experience in setting up, running and expanding charitable organisations, demonstrable experience of managing and leading volunteers and working in partnership with statutory and voluntary agencies.  They will also be able to evidence their abilities in running a busy office, providing financial accounts and monitoring and evaluating charitable projects. The role will initially be based at Wesley Hall Church, Noblett Road however will be required to travel city wide to the distribution centres.

The successful candidate will be sensitive to the Christian ethos of the organisation and be able to attend interviews on the 12 September 2012. 
Closing date for applications is 4pm Monday 3 September 2012.

For further information and application please contact: Rev Ron Willoughby at 01782 281 818.

Application process:              Covering letter and application form
Closing date:                          4pm Monday 3 September
Interview date:                      12 September 2012 at Wesley Hall


Vacancy: UCB Web Developer/Programmer

12 month fixed term contract

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a creative developer to join our busy marketing and design team who will assume responsibility for the maintenance and development of our website.  The successful candidate must be proficient in the use of CSS3, HTML5 and Drupal and have a good working knowledge of other standard coding formats such as ASPX, PHP, XML and Javascript as well as mobile platforms.  Knowledge of other web creation tools would be an advantage.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience in web development and be able to demonstrate examples of work or projects undertaken if invited for interview.

Applicants must have good communication skills as you will be required to liaise with internal and external customers, must be able to work flexibly when required and be able to priorities a busy and varied work load. 

This position is based at our Hanchurch site in Stoke on Trent

Salary:  £18,200 per annum

Closing Date: Friday 24th August 2012

An application form and job description can be downloaded at ucb.co.uk/vacancies




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


END