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Friday 23 November 2012

Updates & Information... Fri 23 November 2012


Dear Friends

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

32.  Free
37.  Rock UK
42.  Embrace
47.  SALTBOX
49.  Affordable and Reliable PAT Testing Service

Don’t forget that there is still time to get involved with the 2012 year of prayer (last item above).  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 




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

To book ring 0844 338 0338 or visit http://www.fire2012.org


Men: Alive... Sat 24 Nov


City-wide Men's Conference

Date:                  Saturday 24 November 2012
Venue:          Bridge Centre, Birches Head, ST2 8DD
Speaker:          Jeff Lucas      
Cost:                  £10

Bring a Packed Lunch or there is a burger van on site

For more info or to buy tickets: contact Stewart Chapman 07552 949990 or e-mail: stewartrchapman@gmail.com. For more details visit www.men-alive.co.uk


Trafficking Training... Mon 26 Nov


Date:               Monday 26 November 2012
Time:               9.30am – 12.30pm
Venue:            Stoke-on-Trent CAB
To book:         Contact Sue Garside to obtain a booking form sue.garside@stoke-cab.org.uk


NSFoF “Hatches, Matches and Dispatches”... Tues 27 Nov


North Staffordshire Forums of Faith presents a three part series looking at the rites and rituals surrounding births, marriages & deaths within faith groups.

Session one “HATCHES” will be looking at the rites & rituals of birth.

Date:               Tuesday 27th November
Venue:            The Science Centre
Speakers:        Speakers  Mr. P Lewis (Judaism), Mr. G Locke (Christianity), Dr. M Sedky (Islam), Mr G Singh (Sikhism)

Refreshments will be available from 6.00pm. To assist with catering, please confirm attendance to Rachael at rachael@saltbox.org.uk or on 01782 207200.

Everyone welcome.



Caudwell Children Volunteer Recruitment Day... Thurs 29 Nov


Caudwell Children transforms the lives of sick and disabled children across the UK. We are holding a volunteer recruitment day to specifically target life experienced people aged over 50 to volunteer in their local communities. If you are interested, or want to find
out more, come and see us on:

Date:               Thursday 29 November 2012
Time:               10.30am-1.30pm
Venue:            The Moat House, Etruria, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 5BQ

Tea, coffee and biscuits will be served throughout

For more details contact Caudwell Children on 0845 300 1348 or e-mail volunteering@caudwellchildren.com


Fishers of Men: John Walker... Fri 30 Nov


Invite friends and family to hear the life story of John Walker a former Royal Arch Freemason, retired business man and chartered surveyor.

Date:               Friday 30 November
Venue:                        The George Hotel, Swan Square, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 2AE
Price:               Cost is £12.95 per person, payable in advance.
Booking:         Book by Tuesday 27 November at the latest
                        To book call Cliff: 07990 593330, Lottie: 07900 901893, Jean: 07531 580308

Places are limited so book early


Saltmine Theatre presents: Cinderella... Fri 30 Nov


Saltmine Theatre Company Presents Cinderella

Date:               Friday 30th November, 7pm
Venue:            St. Andrew’s, Weston Coyney
Tickets:           £6 (no concessions) - Available now from the Parish Office.

His Royal Highness, Prince Alastair, would like it known that on this most blessed season of Christmas, the entire kingdom is warmly invited to a night of fun, frivolity and festivity!

Please invite your family and friends for an enchanting evening of celebration.
Refreshments available to buy at the event.

Tickets available now from the Parish Office:
Tel: 01782 312570                  E-mail: caverswall382@btinternet.com


Welfare Benefits Reform & Social Fund Awareness... Nov & Dec


This event will take place on the following two dates:

Date:               Thursday 29 November
Time:               9.30am -1.00pm
Venue:            The Bridge Centre, Birches Head, Stoke on Trent, ST2 8DD
Includes a buffet lunch

Date:               Wednesday 5 December
Time:               9.30am -1.00pm
Venue:            The Rose Theatre, Taylors Lane, Rugeley, WS15 2AA
Including buffet lunch

By the end of the event attendees will have:
·         Improved understanding on the latest thinking around how the Welfare Reform Bill will be implemented next year.
·         Understand the role of DWP and what local support they will be providing
·         An opportunity for discussions about what the changes will mean to organisation’s service users and to the organisations themselves.
·         Understand the changes to the administration of the Social Fund
·         An opportunity to input into the planning process for the future administration of the Social Fund in Staffordshire.
·         An opportunity to consider how the voluntary sector can raise these issues within the wider local partnership e.g. Staffordshire Strategic Partnership and the Health & Well Being Board.

Spaces are now very limited for these events so if you have not already booked, please contact Jane at Janeswindall@ldcvs.org.uk or telephone 01543 303030.


 A Festival of Light... Sat 1 Dec


Date:               Saturday 1st December 2012
Time:               2-4.30pm (doors open at 1.30pm)
Venue:            Friends' Meeting House, Miller Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, ST5 1EF

This year we are very honoured to welcome Jo Berry, founder of 'Building Bridges for Peace,' as our guest speaker.

Jo Berry is the epitome of triumph over adversity and challenge. When an IRA bomb, planted in the Grand Hotel, Brighton killed her father, Sir Anthony Berry MP, she had a choice. She could choose to harbour hatred, anger, and revenge, or seek understanding and so bring peace back into her life.

Her extraordinary journey has led to her to become an established ambassador for peace and reconciliation. She now often appears on stage with Patrick Magee, the very man who planted the bomb that tore her life apart. Together they work internationally to put an end to violence, and to promote Peace and Reconciliation through empathy and understanding. Their relationship was featured in a BBC programme “Everyman – Facing the Enemy”.

The afternoon will include a candlelit Peace Ceremony Music from singer/songwriter Mel Ellis. Seasonal refreshments included. This event is free, but donations will help Jo to continue her vital work across the world.

To book please contact Moyra Irving on 01782 416423 or email moyrairving@yahoo.co.uk


Advent Service... Sat 1 Dec


Come and join us as we welcome our partners from Mecklenburg to a special service marking the beginning of Advent. Songs, readings and prayers will be in both English and German.  The service will be followed by a Bring-&-Share supper.

Venue:                        St Mark’s Church Basford
Date:               Saturday 1 December
Time:               7pm

For further Information contact The Revd Terry Bloor on 01782 623668
E: terry.bloor@btinternet.com   W: www.stmarksbasford.co.uk


Ceramic City Choir at Stoke Minster... 1 & 19 Dec

Handel's MESSIAH
Date:               Saturday 1st December 7.30pm
Tickets:           £10, Students £5
Family Christmas ConcertDate:               Wednesday 19th December 7.30pm
Tickets:           Adults £5 (inc. Refreshments)
                        Children FREE

Tickets available from Music Mania 01782 206000 or from choir members or on the door
Enquiries: 01782 721693 


Embrace: Annual Fundraising Event... Wed 5 Dec


You are cordially invited to the first annual fundraising dinner for Embrace, which is being held in order to help raise vital funds & also to celebrate our first year of being fully operational as an independent small charity.

Date:               Wednesday 5 December 2012
Time:               7.30pm
Venue:            Mirchi Indian Restaurant, 60 Snow Hill, Shelton, ST1 4LY
Cost:                £20 per person 

There will be music and also a raffle on the evening with some fantastic prizes to be won. There is also ample parking at the restaurant premises.
To book contact Nickie Carter on nickie.carter@stoke-cab.org.uk or contact Julia Roberts on 07989 980016 or email embracewomen@gmail.com.


Hanley Elim Church: Three Men and a Lady... Fri 7 Dec


It’s Cabaret Time with “Three Men and a Lady” Tour.

An evening of music, comedy and entertainment with a twist of faith.

Date:               Friday 7 December
Time:               7.30pm
Venue:            Hanley Elim Church, Bucknall Old Road, Hanley, ST1 2AF

No need to book. This event is free.


Hardeep Singh Kohli: Indian Takeaway... Sat 8 Dec


Broadcaster, writer and celebrity chef Hardeep Singh Kohli is on a mission to find the best Indian Takeaway in the UK. Hardeep will order a takeaway live, for delivery to the stage and then race against time to cook his own sumptuous feast before the takeaway arrives, sharing recipe tips, anecdotes and wonderful stories of his shared Scottish and Indian heritage.

Date:               Saturday 8 December
Time:               7.30pm (bar open from 6.15pm)     
Venue:            St Mary Magdalene Church, Crewe Road, Alsager, ST7 2EW
Cost:                £20 from kohligig@aol.com, 01270 879114, or visit



Compassion fun day... Sat 8 Dec


A Compassion fun day at Swan Bank Church, Burslem with Real Guinea pig nativity, face painting, cakes, Handmade crafts, Gifts, toys, Christian gifts and more!

Date:               Saturday 8 December
Time:               11pm-3pm.

Money raised is for Compassion children in Thailand and the Philippines. www.compassionuk.org


Stafford Street Pastors Curry Night... Tues 11 Dec


Curry Night at The Curry Kuteer.

Date:               Tuesday 11 December
Time:               6.30pm-8.30pm
Cost:                Tickets £15.00
(£5.00 of which will be a donation to Street Pastors).

To book Tickets call 01782 607932 or email williammorris@btinternet.com  

Bring a party, have a great evening and raise funds for Stafford Street Pastors too!


Beacon House of Prayer: Creative Weekend 14 & 15 Dec


Creative art & prayer are great ways of depicting faith and expressing our prayer. We have organized a creative art weekend as part of the ‘Why not pray’ year of prayer in North Staffordshire to help people engage with God in this special time of the year.

This weekend will run from 4pm – 10pm on Friday 14 - Saturday 15 December. This provides the opportunity to explore:

·         An art gallery: there will be a small art gallery in the main room exhibiting work by local Christian artists and some community artwork summing up the year of prayer in 2012.
·         Hands on workshops: from 5-9.30pm on Friday & Saturday. Includes painting, sculpture, photography and much more!
·         A place to pray: we have various rooms with helpful themes and focuses for prayer. Why not follow an Advent theme to help you think and draw close to God.
·         Worship: During the evenings there will be quiet worship being led by individual musicians to aid a worshipful atmosphere.

Booking for workshops—there are limited spaces in the workshops—between 10 and 12 people for each. To book in on first come first served basis, please drop in to the Beacon and sign up on the sheets in the refreshment room. Alternatively, phone up to book 01782 827238.

Beacon House of Prayer is based at 550-552 High Street, Sandyford, Stoke on Trent, ST6 5PD. For further directions visit the website


Stafford Street Pastors Coffee Morning... Sat 15 Dec


Venue:            Church Lane Evangelical Church
Date:               Saturday 15 December
Time:               10.30am – 1.00pm

Includes: refreshments, face painting, crafts, second hand books/CDs/DVDs,  Bob’s Cosmetics and more...


Christmas Spirit Art Exhibition... 17-21 Dec


A chance for you to take a few moments for yourself in the midst of tinsel, presents and turkey. Christmas Spirit carves out a space in the festive season for you to catch a glimpse of an ancient story. A story that changed the world, and still can!

Date:               17-21 December
Time:               7-9pm
Venue:            Kidsgrove Central (Old Methodist Church)
More information at www.ikidsgrove.wordpress.com 


Staffordshire University Lectures… Dec 2012


A wide range of fascinating free lectures will take place at Staffordshire University’s new Science Centre in Stoke-on-Trent over the coming months.

December:

METAMORPHOSIS: FROM SCRUBBY CHILD TO BUTTERFLY ECOLOGIST... Tues 4 December
BY Professor John Dover
John takes us on a journey into the intriguing habits of butterflies through his years of painstaking research around the world, to his own metamorphosis to inspirational ecologist.
Time:   6pm

THE CHRISTMAS LECTURE... Weds 12 December
BY Veteran TV presenter Johnny Ball
Johnny revisits Michael Faraday’s Christmas Lecture and explains how Science continues to shape the world around us.
Time:   2pm

To secure your place at any of the lectures please email: public@staffs.ac.uk or call 01782 294116.


Holocaust Memorial Day… Mon 28 Jan  


Holocaust Memorial Day is commemorated internationally on 27th January each year. This date was chosen as it is the anniversary of the day in 1945 on which the Soviet Army liberated the largest Nazi concentration camp – Auschwitz-Birkenau. Each year Holocaust Memorial Day urges us to pause and reflect on what can happen when racism, prejudice and exclusionary behaviour are left unchecked. It is a day on which we take time to remember the lessons of the past in order to bring hope for the future.

This year’s theme is 'Communities Together: Build a Bridge'. Includes talks by Dr Caroline Sturdy Colls, Question & Answer session, commemorations by North Staffs & Stoke-on-Trent Hebrew Congregation and refreshments.

Date:               Monday 28 January
Time:               6pm welcome – 7.30 refreshments

Confirm your attendance to Julie Smith (Corporate Events Manager) at Staffordshire University on t: 01782 294116 e: julie.smith@staffs.ac.uk
For more information about Holocaust Memorial Day 2013, please visit the official website: http://hmd.org.uk/


Volunteer Staffordshire Awards


Volunteers make a big difference to people’s lives, and the Volunteer Staffordshire awards give local residents and organisations that work with volunteers a chance to say thank you. Volunteer Staffordshire is a partnership initiative between Staffordshire County Council and Volunteer Centres Staffordshire.

The Volunteer Staffordshire awards are now in their third year and celebrate volunteering, in all its forms, across the county. They recognise the massive contribution of local people giving their time and energy to help others.

Nominations for the Volunteer Staffordshire Awards 2013 are now open. There are ten categories:
·         Volunteer of the Year Award
·         Young Volunteer of the Year Award
·         Volunteer Team of the Year Award
·         Lifetime Achievement Award
·         Sporting Volunteer of the Year
·         Cultural Volunteer of the Year
·         Outstanding Leadership Award
·         Environmental Volunteer of the Year Award
·         Unsung Hero Award
·         Business Contribution to the Community Award

People can make as many nominations as they wish and they can be for either individuals or groups of volunteers.  You can nominate either by completing the online form at www.volunteerstaffordshire.org.uk  or by telephoning 0300 111 8000.  Nominations close on 4 January 2013.

N.B. These awards are for those working in the Staffs County Council area (not Stoke-on-Trent).


The Funky Choir: Dates for your diary Oct-Dec 2012


We'll be meeting every Thursday through to 20 December (with a one week break on 25 October for half-term).

Fees for the new season are £28 for the first half-term (7 weeks) and £32 for the second half-term (8 weeks). Payment in full for the whole 15 weeks is just £56. We can now accept cash, cheques, electronic payments and payments using PayPal via our website.

We've got a busy time coming up with a lot of requests already in for concerts. So for those members who enjoy performing, get your diaries ready and pencil in these dates:

1 December                Jon Satchwell & Deborah Gregory's Wedding afternoon (during service)
8 December                Bridgemere Garden World afternoon concert
21 December              Cheshire Academy Christmas Fundraiser - Crewe Town Centre

For more information check out www.TheFunkyChoir.com or ring Brent Robinson on 07944 953243


Book Linvoy Primos for your event!


Linvoy Primus is one of the most liked and humble footballers from this generation. Linvoy has spent the last twenty years playing football, finishing his amazing career in the Premier League with Portsmouth FC.
Now he travels across the globe sharing his faith and testimony. You can book him for your event! Click here for more details: http://www.linvoyprimus.com/
   

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.

Tuesday  4 December            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.  


New Christian TV show for children


UCB Media have produced a brand new Christian kids' TV show right here in the U.K.  

It's a fantastic show, full of fun and colour, but most importantly it's something that parents and grandparents will feel happy to put their kids in front of!

It has much of the professionalism and polish you'd expect from something more mainstream, but is a Christian show filled with the love of the Lord.

Tune in either on Sky channel 585 or watch live on the UCB website. Scheduled air times are: Tuesday at 7:30am and 4pm, Thursday at 7:30am, Saturday at 7am


Christian Vision for Men


CVM is a movement. It is made up of thousands of men who believe the message of Jesus is true, relevant and much needed in the UK today. CVM exists to serve the local church to engage with men in every village, town and city in this country. The movement is a faithful reaction to the significant number of men who have walked away from the Christian church during the last 30 years. CVM supports and equips anyone who believes the Christian message can still radically change people’s lives today. The movement is accessible to men from every background, church and culture. CVM employs specialist Christian communicators operating in sport, the work place, Asian culture, sub-cultures, minority groups and beyond. If you would like to see more men in your local church, drop us a line. We are stacked full of resources, ideas and contacts, as well as having an extensive knowledge of the best curry houses in the UK.

If you would like to arrange for Jon Stockley (Area Co-ordinator for North Staffs & Cheshire) to visit your men's group please ring 07885 472248 or email him jon.stockley@cvm.org.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
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


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.


New Testament Church of God: Musicians volunteers needed


The New Testament Church of God in Crewe has musical instruments but no musicians to play them. We require a drummer and chords player plus guitarists.

Experienced learners considered.

For more information: contact Pastor David Edwards 01270 668996.

Stoke-on-Trent Prison Fellowship Prayer Group


Meets on the first Monday of every month at the Penkhull Christian Fellowship Centre at 19:30pm.

The foundation of everything we do at the PF is prayer - many attendees go into prisons like Drakehall Women’s Prison (Alpha Course and Bible Studies) and Thorn Cross, Warrington (Sycamore Tree Programme).  We are hoping to deliver the course at our Werrington Young Offenders in October.
For further information please contact Richard Walley on 01782 768152 or 07526 474732 or email: rdw64@hotmail.co.uk

Blurton Community Hub


Blurton Community Hub is a place to socialize in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

These social afternoons are on every Wednesday afternoon, with live music, bingo, quizzes, a raffle and tea, coffee and biscuits. For more information about this hub, contact Alex Fagan on 01782 409694 or e-mail alex@bchub.co.uk


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 Manager on: 01782 575129/07806 987439 or email 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 07557471616 or email jon.munt@rockuk.org. Or visit: 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 


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 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


Stafford “House of Bread” Food Bank open


The House of Bread Food Bank opened in Stafford last week. With winter and the general current economic climate as it is, many people have the dilemma of spending their money on heating or food. The House of Bread food bank aims to help people with these difficult choices to make.

The Food bank is manned and managed by a House of Bread representative, who will be on hand to assist and a discuss your needs. Contact details are detailed below.

If you would like to donate to the House of Bread, please contact HOB. Your food donations will sustain the level of food HOB need to support the many referrals that are starting to come in.

For more information about the House of Bread Food Bank, the projects it runs or how to donate to HOB please contact them on:

T: 01785 607932         E: houseofbread@btinternet.com   W: www.hobstafford.co.uk 


Embrace: Women’s Group for Asylum seekers and refugees


Are you, or do you know, a female Asylum Seeker or Refugee with children?
Are you, or are they, feeling isolated and lonely?
If so, then our Women only weekly ‘drop-In’ session is the place to be.

When:             Every Wednesday
Time:               10.30am to 12.30pm
Where:            St Mark’s Church, Shelton, Broad Street, Shelton. ST1 4LJ.

The ‘Drop-In’ provides a non-judgemental, peaceful and safe space, weekly activities such as beading and yoga and support and signposting to local agencies/organisations within North Staffordshire.
There are refreshments such as tea, coffee, fruit & biscuits and there is also a supervised crèche facility available for your child/children. Provision packs are also distributed weekly.
For any further information, please contact Julia Roberts: 07989 990016 embracewomen@gmail.com  or visit www.embracedrop-in.org.uk

Embrace is currently self-funded and in desperate need of non-perishable food and toiletries donations for adults and babies. You can drop off provisions any Wednesday morning between 9am to 12.00pm at St Mark’s Church in Shelton. If you can’t donate provisions, then please consider a financial donation via local giving. All you have to do is go to www.localgiving.com, sign up, look up Embrace and donate. It’s easy and will make a real difference to us. Thank you.


Volunteers Needed at Women’s ‘Drop-In’


Are you passionate about women’s issues? Do you feel a calling to help the destitute and homeless? If the answer is yes, then please consider volunteering for Embrace, a small North Staffordshire charity, which runs a weekly ‘drop-in’ for female refugees and asylum seekers, and their children, at St Mark’s Church in Shelton.

If you have free time on a Wednesday morning then please consider applying to become a volunteer at the weekly Embrace ‘drop-In’. For further information or an application form, please call Julia on 07989 980016 or email embracewomen@gmail.com.

The weekly ‘Drop-In’ supports some of the most vulnerable, isolated and marginalised people in Stoke-on-Trent and wider Society. The women who attend are experiencing extreme hardship and social isolation as a result of the asylum process and many are destitute.


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.
Venue:                                   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 your 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:

For information: 01782 713165 or email NewcastleUL@exchangegroup.co.uk
Your LOCAL Centre address: First Floor, Newcastle Library, Ironmarket, Newcastle- Under- Lyme, ST5 1AT.


Relax: Aromatherapy & Sports Massage


With over 10 years’ experience, Anita offers sports massage and Aromatherapy treatments in the comfort of your own home.

Aromatherapy: The use of essential oils, mixed with carrier oil, to provide a massage which is tailored to the individuals requirements.
Sports massage: This is a twofold treatment. It can aid either in the warm-up, or cool down of muscles either before, or after sports related activities.

Prices start from £10, depending on type of treatment and distance travelled. Reductions are in place for OAP’s

For information: e-mail Relaxbyanita@yahoo.co.uk         Facebook: www.facebook.com/RelaxAromatherapySportsMassge


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 information contact Rachael: 01782 207200 or email Rachael@saltbox.org.uk


Affordable and reliable PAT Testing service


PAT Testing service for Churches and Christian businesses. Fully qualified, insured and CRB checked. Contact Alan on 01782 262388 or barrowjones@sky.com. A local Christian business supporting local Christians.


Wanted: Tenant to house share


Young Christian man seeking male or female tenant to share a rented bungalow with garden in Werrington.  Includes own bedroom and shared facilities. 

For more information contact: Stuart on 07564 044550


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.


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 or 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: 01782 265651 or email Zi@saltbox.org.uk


Money Matters Saltbox Administration Volunteer


The Saltbox is extending Money Matters, its debt advice service, and is looking for a part-time volunteer who can provide appropriate support.
The ideal person will be reliable, competent in English and Maths, have good administrative skills and computing abilities. They must be sympathetic to the issues surrounding debt, have some knowledge of the Benefits System and have some degree of flexibility.
The position is based at the Saltbox Offices, Bemersley House, Gitana Street, Hanley, Stoke on Trent, ST1 1DY.
Hours are to be agreed. Travelling and lunch expenses will be covered. Training will be provided.
For further information please contact Anne Riddle on 01782 207200 or e-mail anne@saltbox.org.uk   

Volunteers for Stoke Minster


The Welcome Minster project has recently been launched to support St. Peter’s Church, Stoke in its role as Minster Church to the City of Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffs, particularly with regard to visitors. The catalyst for this project has been the launch of the Two Saints Way long-distance footpath/pilgrimage route between Chester Cathedral and Lichfield Cathedral (www.twosaintsway.org.uk), of which Stoke Minster sits at the centre.

For further information contact Rev Marg Hardcastle:
E: marghardcastle@aol.com             T: 01782 252183 / 07515 460537


Treasurer: Bentilee Volunteers
For further information please contact Tom Simpson on 01782 234614



Signposts Centre, Highfields Vacancy - Client Liaison Worker

 

The Signposts Centre at Highfields is a drop in centre that provides a free cafe and access to computers, the internet and advice and signposting to other services for the residents of the Highfields estate.

A vacancy has arisen for a part time Client Liaison Worker on a fixed term contract until 31st March 2013.  For the right candidate there may be an opportunity for the position to be made permanent at the end of the contract.

The main function of the position is to support clients in whatever way they need, advice, a listening ear or support in completing forms or using the internet.  The purpose is either to resolve their problems or to signpost then to a partner who can resolve their problems.  A secondary role is to support the Centre management in the day to day running of the centre and maintaining a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Experience of working in a customer facing environment, particularly in dealing with difficult personalities, in one of the following the Voluntary Sector, Public Sector, Church or Hospitality is desirable.  An awareness of national and local agencies for partnership working in communities would also be advantageous.

The successful candidate needs to be able to maintain a high level of confidentiality and requires excellent interpersonal skills.  The ability to work with others and display appropriate levels of empathy and compassion is a given and they need to be able to solve problems and make decisions in challenging and unpredicted situations.  Good verbal and written communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively in a variety of circumstances to a broad range of people are also necessary.

A good level of IT literacy, Word, Internet/Email/PC’s, is useful

Applicants should be educated to GCSE or equivalent in Maths and English and possess a clean driving licence.  Access to a vehicle is desirable as working at another centre may occasionally be necessary.

The hours of work are 9 am to 3 pm for two days per week.  If you are interested in the position or want more information please contact Alan Wyatt either by email at alan.wyatt@signposts-services.org.uk or in writing at Signposts Centre, Auden Way, Highfields, Stafford, ST17 9TX.

Closing date for applications is Friday 23rd November 2012.


OHP – Free to a good home


Over Head Projector free to a good home. For more details contact Rachael at Saltbox on 01782 207200.




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 




Kind regards,
Rachael Dabbs
   Administrator
   f:  01782 207300






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