TIMES OF TRANSITION
eriods of transition can be unnerving and yet also full of excitement and expectation. There has been much media comment on transitions of the new Archbishop of Canterbury and the new Pope, both of whom have begun their new ministries in recent months. All sorts of questions pose themselves as these two new men begin to take decisions and their influence begins to be felt in the Church of God. Often the secular media (and too often Christians as well) fall into the trap of viewing Christian leadership through the lens of political discourse. Yet the model that we actually have before us is Christ the Good Shepherd and we are called to share in his care of the sheep.
All of this has been much on my mind as I prepare to take up my own new role as Vicar of Holy Trinity, Lamorbey. Excitement is mixed with apprehension and I am very much aware of the sense of expectation, but perhaps also uncertainty, that may greet my arrival. It seems to me that Eastertide is a wonderful time in the liturgical year to begin a new ministry, as we recall and ponder the stories of the Risen Christ and reflect on how the Risen Christ continues to call us to follow him.
I am very much looking forward to getting to know the various churches that are part of Churches Together in Sidcup and forming relationships as we seek to faithfully follow Christ in our respective traditions. Please do pray for me and the people of Holy Trinity, Lamorbey, at this time of transition.
Fr. Philip Wells.
Holy Trinity, Lamorbey
Preparations for Bexley's First Free School
ope Community School is hosting a free Easter Party on the 20th April, 3pm-5pm at the school site on Rectory Lane for any local children due to start in a Reception class later this year.
Bexley’s first Free School and newest primary are arranging the party promising lots of fun with a bouncy castle, arts and crafts, party games and
an Easter egg hunt.
The party also gives children and their families an opportunity to visit the school and to meet the new headteacher, Lisa Morris and the
team.
Hope also have a few remaining spaces available for their Reception class 2013. Interest in the school, not only in pupil applications but also recruitment enquiries has been vast and continues to grow.
Local families are currently waiting to hear which school they will have been allocated a place at for their Reception aged children. Bexley local authority will be sending offers to families who have applied for local primary places on the 17th April. Those who specified Hope as preference in the Bexley process may be offered a place at HCS as well as those who have applied directly to the school however a few remaining places are up for grabs.
Initial applicants will be offered places in April and places will continue to be offered until the school has reached its full capacity of 30 students.
Plans for the renovation of school building are developing well. A firm of architects has been appointed who is working hard on designs for building
renovation and restructure. The final plans will be available to view on the school website and at up and coming open events, details of which can be found on
the website. www.hopecommunityschool.org
Grant Blowers
All Saints Church (CofE)
Rectory Lane, Foots Cray, DA14 5BU. Tel: 020 8300 7096
MAP
he Living Church on the Meadows, a small and beautiful old church on the edge of the Footscray Meadows, with a friendly, welcoming, family atmosphere.
Traditional Anglican Liturgy, the church welcomes all ages.
Services on Sunday:
9.30am All Age Worship (1st Sunday);
9.30am Parish Eucharist (Other Sundays).
or visit their website at: www.allsaintsandstjames.org.uk/index.htm
Avery Hill Christian Felowship
Southspring, Sidcup, DA15 8EA. Tel: 020 8859 7073
MAP
he Avery Hill Christian Fellowship is a lively and vibrant community of people of all ages who share a common faith in the grace of God through the person of Jesus Christ. Having a passion for mission both locally, nationally and internationally.
There are many activities throughout the week for all ages, including mother and toddlers,(www.springlets.org.uk), Whizz Kids club, youth events and even meetings and outings for the adults! Disabled facilities include hearing loop, wheelchair access to premises and toilet. The church hosts the Bexley Foodbank, open on Tuesday (10am-1pm) and Thursday (12noon-3pm).
Services on Sunday:
10.15am Morning Worship (Creche, Children & Y.P. Groups).
6.15pm Evening Service (2nd Sunday).
More information from:
or visit their website at www.averyhill.info
Website also contains audio files of Sunday sermons.
Christchurch (CofE)
Main Road, Sidcup, DA14 6PA. Tel: 020 8308 0835
MAP
atering extensively for families. Christchurch is Church of England in the evangelical tradition. On Sunday mornings there are various
activities for 3 to 14 year old's and above. During the week running many activities, home Bible study groups, meetings for women, a monthly men's breakfast plus
much more. Offers wheelchair access to premises.
Sunday services at 8.00am (every 2nd and 4th Sun), & 10.30am.
Evening Services as advertised.
For more information visit their website at www.christchurchsidcup.org.uk
or contact
Emmanuel Church
Granville Road, Sidcup, DA14 4AA. Tel: 020 8300 5064
MAP
welcoming and friendly church
of Methodist and United Reform traditions. There is a Sunday Club for 3-18 year old's and there are other church based activities during the week. For letting's,
bookings information, programme of activities, use of premises and other details speak to the church office.
Emmanuel Church is part of The Chislehurst and Orpington
Methodist Circuit. Sunday service at 10.30am.
For more information visit
www.emmanuelchurchsidcup.org.uk website, or from
Foots Cray Baptist Church
137 Sidcup Hill, Foots Cray, Sidcup, DA14 6JS. Tel: 020 8302 8136
MAP
t Foots Cray Baptist Church,
they are committed to the central truths of the Christian Faith and have a 'traditional' but warm and friendly approach to worship. Only baptising those who have
come to faith in Jesus but our Communion Table is open to all who trust Christ as Saviour, whether baptised as believers or not. Offers wheelchair access to
premises.
Sunday services at 11.00am and 6.30pm.
For more information from www.fcbc.org.uk or from
The Holy Redeemer Church, Lamorbey (CofE)
Days Lane, Sidcup, DA15 8JR. Tel: 020 8302 5356
MAP
he Holy Redeemer is a
Parish of the Church of England. Worship focuses on the Holy Eucharist, using a variety of styles. Having an active Children's Church and Choir.
Offers wheelchair access to premises and toilet. Sunday services at 8.00am and 10.00am.
More information from:
or visit their website at www.theholyredeemer.co.uk
Holy Trinity Church, Lamorbey (CofE)
Hurst Road, Sidcup, DA15 9AE. Tel: 020 8300 8231
MAP
oly Trinity is a traditional Anglo Catholic church with Parish Eucharist as their main service.
All will be very welcome to any Sunday service or any weekday meeting. Sunday services at 8.00am Eucharist, 10.00am Family Eucharist.
More information from:
or visit their website at:
www.holytrinitylamorbey.org
New Community Church
24 Station Road, Sidcup, DA15 7DU. Tel: 020 8300 0333
MAP
lively, diverse church that draws people from across the London boroughs of Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich and Lewisham. Sunday meetings
are relevant, relaxed and informal. During the week running activities for all the community including youth work, students and
twenties, exercise classes, meetings for the retired, a morning cafe and a substantial toddler group as well as midweek small groups.
A Debt Advice Service is now available for those who could benefit from talking over any money worries.
Their website contains a regularly updated list of what is going on. Offers wheelchair access to premises and toilet.
Sunday
services at 9.30am and 11.30am.
More information from:
or visit their website at www.newcommunitychurch.org.uk
New Generation Church
Birkbeck Road, Sidcup, DA14 4DJ. Tel: 020 8309 6056
MAP
ew Generation is a passionate and lively community. Passionate about Jesus, Sidcup and you. They are involved in projects locally, nationally and internationally. They offer many activities for many ages, speak to the office to find out what is going on right now. All ages are welcome at their Sunday meeting which includes HQ Kids Church and Sparkles creche. Offers wheelchair access to premises and toilet.
Sunday services at 9.30am for 9.45am at Bexleyheath Cineworld, DA6 7LL.
Evening gatherings (most Sundays) at St. John's Church, Church Road, Sidcup, DA14 6BX. Doors and cafe open at 5.45pm.
Weekday meetings at New Generation Centre, Birkbeck Road, Sidcup, DA14 4DJ.
More information from:
or visit their website at www.newgen.org.uk
Our Lady Of The Rosary Church (RC)
330a Burnt Oak Lane, Blackfen, DA15 8LW. Tel: 020 8300 2697
MAP
ur Lady of the Rosary (330a Burnt Oak Lane, off Days Lane) is a Roman Catholic parish community with a wide variety of spiritual, social and community activities. The parish includes
people of all ages with activities for children and young people, outreach to the elderly and housebound. A social club, football club and various groups, who meet
to contribute in diverse ways, to the building up of God's kingdom.
Saturday service at 6.00pm;
Sunday services at 9.00am, 10.30am and 6.00pm.
More information from:
or visit their website at www.blackfencatholic.org
Redeemed Christian Church of God - Victory Assembly
367A Footscray Road, New Eltham, SE9 2DR. Tel: 07852 100550
MAP
his congregation, belonging to The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), have now moved to new premises
in New Eltham. Under the leadership of Pastor Richard Odufisan the church meets for a Celebration Service at 10.00am each Sunday and at 7.00pm on
Wednesdays for a Bible Study & Prayer Meeting.
The foundation of the church is prayer and teaching the full counsel of God, to help people and families discover their purpose in
life through love and care for one another.
For more information click here for church website or
contact:
Sidcup Baptist Church
167 Main Road, Sidcup, DA14 6PA. Tel: 020 8309 9717
MAP
friendly, growing church with lively worship and a good cross-section of age groups, including a large proportion of children and young people. Their vision is to be a church that loves and serves God, His people and His world. The church hosts the Disabled Christian Fellowship (Sidcup Branch) on the 2nd Saturday afternoon in the month. Community lunches, Alpha group, daytime and evening Housegroups, Playgroup, Children's and YP's clubs. Disabled facilities include hearing loop (British Sign Language signing by arrangement), wheelchair access to premises and toilet. Sunday services at 10.30am (creche, children & Y.P's groups) and 6.30pm on 1st & 3rd Sundays. More information from: or visit their website at www.sidcupbaptistchurch.org.uk
St. Andrew's Church (CofE)
Maylands Drive, Sidcup, DA14 4RY. Tel: 020 8300 4712
MAP
mix of traditional and informal styles of worship throughout the month. There is a variety of activities and groups during the week for people of all ages from toddler to retired. Trusting you'll experience the love of God there, you are welcome to sample, visit or even stay. Disabled facilities include hearing loop, wheelchair access to church, hall and toilet on hall level. Sunday service at 10.00am. More information from: or visit their website at www.st-andrewssidcup.org.uk
St. James Church (CofE)
North Cray Road, North Cray, DA14 5HD. Tel: 020 8300 7096
MAP
small, pretty Church on the edge of the Meadows, in quiet surroundings and one of North Cray's best kept secrets. Traditional Anglican services, they welcome families and children and offer an all age service, once a month, which is popular with children from 1 to 91. Sunday services 10.00am (2nd Sunday), 11.15am (1st, 3rd & 4th) and 6.30pm (2nd Sunday).
More information from:or visit their website at www.allsaintsandstjames.org.uk/index.htm
St. John's Church (CofE)
Church Road, Sidcup, DA14 6BX. Tel: 020 8300 0383
MAP
he church is built to the glory
of God but seeks to make God known to the people in Sidcup. It is a great place for worship, young and old alike can enjoy what they do. Are family friendly and
value and appreciate the more senior members of the Church. There are various groups you can be involved in but just turning up on a Sunday is fine. Why not walk
with them for a while and enjoy the community life at St. John's. Offers wheelchair access to premises and toilet available in church hall.
Sunday services 8.00am and 10.00am.
For information visit their website at www.stjohnsidcup.co.uk
More information from:
St. Lawrence's Church (RC)
129 Main Road, Sidcup, DA15 7HB. Tel: 020 8300 2480
MAP
t. Lawrence's parish was founded from St. Mary's
Chislehurst in 1902. The first Mass was said on the Feast of St. Lawrence of Canterbury, (2nd February) hence the parish name.
Until August 2012 the church was served by a religious congregation of priests - The Society of Mary, known more generally as Marist
Fathers. A quarterly magazine called News and Views is published, giving details of services and organisations in the parish.
Offers wheelchair access to premises and toilet. Open daily 9.30am; Saturday 9.30am & 6.30pm; Sunday 8.30am, 10.00am and 11.30am.
More information from:
or visit their website at www.stlawrenceschurch.org.uk
"ALL BEING ONE" - 2012/13 CTiS REPORT
he year since the last AGM seems to have passed even more quickly than other recent years since my retirement. I have felt honoured to occupy the role of Chairman and have enjoyed, as I hope you all have, the many events that CTiS has made possible as well as the fellowship that has been engendered and maintained, so that, perhaps, we are all gradually moving ever closer to "All being one" (as somebody once said), while understanding each others' different backgrounds and approaches to worship.
I felt when my year as Chairman began that in my predecessor, Mike Attewell, I had a hard act to follow and I am aware of, and apologise for, my lesser productivity. I am grateful to Mike for his help and guidance to me in taking over from him. I am also sincerely grateful to my fellow committee members: Roger Power (Vice-Chairman); Alan Mason (Executive Member); John Wiltshire (Treasurer); Janet Norton (Minute Secretary); Maz Potts and Pamela Steed (former and current Circulation Secretary); for their assistance and support.
Once again, thanks are due to all those wonderful people who do the real work, including Tom Baker, Michael Baldry and Mike Barnes and Stephen Sealy for their work on the Civic Carol Service, the Carol singing outside Morrisons, the Good Friday Walk of Witness, the monthly "Harmony" leaflet and the CTiS website, as well as to Christine Burry, Jean Smith and Alan Mason and John Steed for Christian Aid and the very successful Lent Lunches.
Thank you also to Tom Parsons for allowing the use of Christchurch for the Lent Lunches and for making the preparations for the Unity Service which didn't happen because of the snow and ice, but which will take place, God willing and weather permitting at Christchurch on Sunday l9th May at 6.30pm (preceded by refreshments from 5.30pm. I am sorry that the new date clashes with other events, in particular at New Generation Church and St. John's. Can I also record our thanks to those who arrange hospitality for our General Meetings and for the monthly prayer meetings on the third Saturday morning of each month from 9.00am to 9.30am as well as those who support in prayer the street pastors in Bexleyheath on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Finally. please do your best to encourage increased involvement in CTiS among your congregation - we need to see new faces and particularly a few younger ones.
Richard Spencer (Chair of CTiS)
LOCAL CHURCH EVENTS
GREETINGS CARD MAKING WORKSHOPS
Saturday, 10.30am - 12noon
AVERY HILL CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Southspring, Sidcup, DA15 8EA
LOCAL COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
Hope Community School - Loving to Learn
idcup is getting a new primary school this September, and one that has the Christian ethos at the heart of all that it will do. Hope Community School is being set up by the New Generation Schools Trust, a body that was set up to work with local churches and businesses to bring Hope Community School to the local community through the Free School initiative.
The school, based in Rectory Lane, Foots Cray, Sidcup, will reach out to local families to increase children’s aspirations, encourage a spirit of adventure and maximise each child’s talents and gifts through underpinning the Christian values of generosity and hospitality to create community pioneers. Adventure, openness, creativity, excellence and values will drive the school forward and will be central to its learning, shaping not just the schools future, but the future of all the pupils. The curriculum will inspire the children to be adventurous and innovative in their learning. The thread of Christian values and purpose for all people will run throughout both the curriculum and the school so that pupils will have a sense of worth and know that they have a place in the world.
Admissions The first intake of children will be Reception age. In a class of 25, they can expect to grow, develop and receive the building blocks that every child deserves and needs as they start their school life. If you have a child born between 1 September 2008 and 31 August 2009 you can apply for a place at Hope Community School. There are two ways to apply. The first is through the Bexley admissions system placing Hope Community School as your first choice. The second way is to apply directly to the school. The closing date for both is 15 January 2013; however, if Hope Community School is undersubscribed they will continue to take applications after this date.
Consultation The school is also keen to have your views. As part of its formal responsibilities, it needs to consult with its stakeholders, potential parents and the wider community. It really needs to hear what you have to say about their proposals. It would be great if you could take some time out and to fill out a short questionnaire and give them your thoughts.
If you want to:
please contact Mary Rouse at mary@hopecommunityschool.org
or phone her on 020 8309 6056 or 07792 629099 and she will
get back to you as soon as possible.
Click here for details about the Bexley Foodbank
More information is on the Avery Hill Christian Fellowship website
-Click here, then yellow "Community" tab, and then "Foodbank"
For more information visit their website: New Community Debt Advice Service
WHAT DO CHRISTIANS BELIEVE?
There are several ways in which we can help you find out more about Christianity, its founder
Jesus Christ, and how Christian faith can improve your life.
The Christian Enquiry Agency provides information for people who want to find out about the Christian faith and its founder Jesus Christ.
Link to: Transform Bexley Borough
Link to: Churches Together in Kent.
For monthly e-News Report from Churches Together in England.
SIDCUP CHURCHES
The 2 hour session included a "Thought for the Day" given by the minister, Rev.Tom Parsons and by others church leaders each Wednesday during Lent.
Payment for the lunches and secondhand books were donated to Christian Aid.
Christine Burry, Christian Aid Organiser for CTiS, expressed her
thanks to everyone for their generous contributions.
