Dear Friends

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

1. Prayer Breakfast... Sat 10 Nov

2. ROOT66: Youth & Children’s Work Training... Sat 10 Nov

3. Bethesda Chapel: Rededication Service… Sat 10 Nov

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

5. At7... Sun 11 Nov

6. Remembrance Day Parade & Service... Sun 11 Nov

7. Election Forum - Staffs Police & Crime Commissioner... Mon 12 Nov

8. Trade Aid: A Taste of India... 15 Nov

9. Abolitionist Tour... Sun 18 Nov

10. Beacon HOP...prayer days

11. Fire 2012... 23-24 Nov

12. Men: Alive... Sat 24 Nov

13. Trafficking Training... Mon 26 Nov

14. Saltmine Theatre presents: Cinderella... Fri 30 Nov

15. Welfare Benefits Reform... Thurs 29 Nov & Wednesday 5 Dec 2012

16. A Festival of Light... Sat 1 Dec

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

18. Embrace: Annual Fundraiser Event... Wed 5 Dec

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

20. Compassion fun day... Sat 8 Dec

21. Volunteer Staffordshire Awards

22. Bible Society: opportunity to make good sense of the Bible

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

24. Book Linvoy Primos for your event!

25. 2012 UCB Leaders Meeting

26. New Christian TV show for children

27. Christian Vision for Men

28. Nightchurch

29. Christian Meditation

30. Street Pastors: Looking for Volunteers

31. SOT Prison Fellowship Prayer Group

32. Free

33. New Testament Church of God: Musicians volunteers needed

34. Blurton Community Hub

35. Swanbank Coffee Lounge

36. Swanbank Coffee Lounge volunteers needed!

37. Rock UK

38. Fair Trade Group in Newcastle

39. Stoke-on-Trent Foodbank

40. Breathe City Church Distribution Centre

41. Embrace

42. Volunteers Needed at Women’s ‘Drop-In’

43. Healing Rooms

44. Free Adult Training Courses

45. Relax: Aromatherapy & Sports Massage

46. SALTBOX

47. The Lounge Booking

48. Affordable and Reliable PAT Testing Service

49. Wanted: Tenant to house share

50. Cross Rhythms: Properties to Let

51. Volunteers for S-o-T Foodbank... 20-21 Sept 2012

52. Volunteers...Saltbox PhoneLink telephone ‘befrienders’ needed

53. Volunteer....Saltbox Money Matters volunteer administrator

54. Volunteers for Stoke Minster

55. Treasurer: Bentilee Volunteers

56. Vacancy: Ruby Girl UK Sessional Project Worker

57. OHP – Free to a good home

58. 2012: Why not pray for a change?

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

Prayer Breakfast... Sat 10 Nov

Date: Saturday 10 November

Venue: St Peter’s Academy

Time: 9:00am-11:30am.

We will meet in the restaurant on the Penkhull Site and enjoy a time fellowship together whilst tucking into a delicious continental style breakfast. Following this we shall enter into a short time of prayer and worship together. We know that ‘prayer changes things’ and thought that this would be a great opportunity to get together collaboratively and pray for the future of St Peter’s Academy.

If you have not already done so please would you confirm whether or not you will be attending by e-mailing mbailey@sgfl.org.uk

ROOT66: Youth & Children’s Work Training... Sat 10 Nov

Children and Young People in the Church

Training to equip those involved in gospel ministry with children and young people. The guest speaker will be Dave Fenton, Training Director of Root 66

Morning Session: A Whole Church Strategy

Afternoon Session: The Role and Work of Leaders

Venue: St. Andrew’s Church in the Westlands, Newcastle-under-Lyme, ST5 3RE

Date: Saturday, 10 November 2012

Time: 10.15am to 6.15pm

Cost: Suggested contribution to help defray costs £5 per individual session or £25 for a Church block booking

For more information www.churchinthewestlands.org.uk. To sign up for all or part of the day please contact Chris Gill chris.gill@tesco.net 01782 625924

Bethesda Chapel: Rededication Service… Sat 10 Nov

When Bethesda closed in 1986 the chapel was entered and a lot of damage and destruction was carried out inside the chapel by unwanted visitors. Among the items destroyed were the four Rolls of Honour naming all the young men from Bethesda who went to fight in the two world wars and a WW1 glass memorial dedicated to thirty young men who did not return.

In 2009 the Friends of Bethesda raised enough money to have the Rolls of Honour remade and in November 2009 held a wonderful service of re dedication for the Rolls of Honour before they were reinstated onto the wall each side of the vestry door. Since then Friends of Bethesda have been raising money to have the glass memorial remade.

The memorial has been remade and is now ready to be reinstalled above the vestry door. Therefore, you are invited to come to the service of re dedication for the Bethesda Memorial to the Fallen:

Date: Saturday 10 Nov 2012

Venue: Bethesda Chapel

Time: Doors will be open for the service at 10.15 am and close at 11.00 am for the duration of the service.

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 10 Nov 2.00-4.30pm - "Meet and Greet"

Sunday 11 Nov 10.30am & 6.30pm - Pastor John will be ministering to us at both services

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

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

At7... Sun 11 Nov

‘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. ALL WELCOME! Includes worship, teaching, testimony and prayer ministry

Date: Sunday 11 November

Time: 7pm

Venue: Market Drayton Methodist Church, Shrewsbury Road, Market Drayton, TF9 3DL

Speaker: Rt Revd Mark Rylands (Bishop of Shrewsbury)

Please call Mark Savill on 07773 748819 for more information.

Remembrance Day Parade & Service... Sun 11 Nov

A Remembrance Day Parade and Service will take place at Hanley War Memorial, adjacent to the Town Hall, on Sunday 11 November starting at 10.50am. ALL ARE WELCOME

Election Forum - Staffs Police & Crime Commissioner... Mon 12 Nov

MAKE THE CROSS COUNT !

In November Staffordshire will appoint its first ever Police & Crime Commissioner. To inform voters there will be a specific Election Forum arranged for people from Stoke-on-Trent & North Staffordshire to attend. THIS IS AN IMPORTANT OPPORTUNITY FOR CHRISTIANS TO DEMONSTRATE THEIR INTEREST IN THIS MOST IMPORTANT ELECTION.

The introduction of Police and Crime Commissioners for England and Wales provides Christians with a new opportunity to be salt and light in the life of their local communities:

· By voting in the upcoming elections, Christians can, as Jeremiah 29:7 puts it, “seek the welfare of the city” where they have been placed.

· By campaigning to have the best possible candidates elected to serve as Police and Crime Commissioners, we can help fulfil our calling to “seek justice” (Isaiah 1:17) in local communities.

· By engaging with candidates before the election and with their elected Commissioner afterwards, Christians can be a positive influence as they prepare their policing strategies.

There is further information available from Care. www.makethecrosscount-pcc.org.uk

Date: Monday 12 November

Venue: Breathe City Church, Leek Road, Abbey Hulton

Time: 7.30-9.00pm

Further details from the Saltbox – Tel: 01782 207200

Trade Aid “A Taste of India”… Thurs 15 Nov

Fairtrade shop at Methodist Book Centre, Hanley

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

Dates: 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: 01782 212146 (shop) or 01782 817720 (home)

Abolitionist Tour... Sun 18 Nov

Join Ben Cooley CEO of Hope for Justice, Mark Stevens, from Abundant Life Church, Bradford and the Hope for Justice team as we seek to empower the next generation of Abolitionists, sharing stories of rescued victims of human trafficking in the UK and their restored hope.

Date: Sunday 18 November

Time: 5pm

Venue: Breathe City Church, City Campus, Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST2 8BY

For more information visit www.hopeforjustice.org.uk/events/abolitionist-tour/

Beacon HOP...extra prayer days… Fri 23 Nov

We are planning two prayer days this autumn at Beacon House. The concentrated time of prayer during May's Holy Convocation was so valuable that we felt we should set a whole day aside now and again to worship and seek the Lord. We are inviting you to join us for some or all of the day each time.

The times of corporate worship and prayer are 10am-12.30pm; 2-4.30pm; and 7-9.30pm.

These days will give longer opportunity to share God's heart and also share what we sense of the new season opening up out of all that has been prayed this year. Please just come along, or even better, let us know if you can make it.

God bless, William & Karen & Beacon HOP team

For further information telephone the Beacon team on: 01782 827238

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: 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

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 Raising Event

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.

Places are limited to book a place. Please request a booking form from 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 St., 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

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.

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

More information from www.stmarysalsager.org/concerts-at-st-marys

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

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).

Bible Society: opportunity to make good sense of the Bible

Become an h+ facilitator and help your church make good sense of the Bible:

· How can we have more confidence in the Bible?

· What do we make of the Conquest of Canaan?

· Can history help us understand Genesis today?

· Does the structure of biblical writing convey meaning?

h+ Making Good Sense of the Bible is Bible Society’s ground-breaking 10-session programme to help you interpret the Scriptures. Incorporating discipleship material, practical exercises, expert advice, facilitator input and audiovisual features, h+ deals with questions like the ones above and many more to help you to make good sense of the Bible.

Phone 01793 418222 and find out more about our upcoming h+ training days:

13 October, Nottingham
6 November, Kendal
13 November, Crawley
15 November, Addlestone
20 November, Hadleigh

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:

23 November Parkinsons’ Concert 7.30 - 10 pm

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

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 on 07858 782816 or email terry.english50@gmail.com

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

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 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

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. *Special offer for October 2012 which is £5 off full Body Aromatherapy Treatment on or before 31^st October 2012.

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

SALTBOX

Restart (formerly North Staffordshire Community Chaplaincy) 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 on 01782 252708 or visit us at Unit 19, Podmore Street, Burslem, ST6 2EZ

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

Volunteers Needed: S-o-T Foodbank... 20-21 Sept

Strong men needed to help dig a pathway and create a road for Foodbank deliveries on 20-21 September.

If you would like to help please contact Mary-Anne, Sue or Ron on 01782 281 818.

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 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

Vacancy: Ruby Girl UK Sessional Project Worker

12 hours per week / £8.60 per hour

Key areas of work:

Supporting the project in the direct delivery of its programs & services & associated tasks.

Co-ordinating & developing the volunteer, trainee & apprentice schemes.

Evaluation & monitoring of RGUK’s products & services in liaison with establishments, participants & ex-participants

Deadline for application: Monday 19 November.

For a full & detailed job specification / application form please call Dawnie Deaville 07812 774 632.

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.