bromley baptist church

Cafe church

2009-09-21T10:03:00.003+01:00

Cafe church is back!

St arbuck's Sundays start this coming Sunday - 27 september - at 3:30. We meet at Starbucks in the Market Square, Bromley

We'll be thinking about celebrity and who we follow. The programme will last 45 to 50 minutes and involve a quiz, a couple of short thoughts and plenty of opportunity for discussion

Bring a friend, grab a beverage and a snack and come and join us upstairs at Starbucks in the Market Square, Bromley.

LBA Leadership Training Day

2009-09-08T09:13:00.002+01:00

7th November 2009

All Nations Baptist Church,
Clapham Park
Bonneville Christian Centre
12 Poynders Road
CLAPHAM PARK
SW4 8NY

This is a day for all people with any role within the life of the church. There will be workshops for treasurers, deacons, secretaries and pastors and seminars covering “The leader as Disciple”, “Missional Leadership”, “Decision Making” and “Maintaining Spiritual Journeys”. There will also be an evening celebration where the speaker will be Tony Mason.

The event will run from 11am – 7pm

The Back To Church Sunday Prayer

2009-07-30T19:28:00.001+01:00

Welcoming God, thank you for today.
Thank you for making us and loving us.
Thank you for inviting us to know you.
Help us to invite (Your friend's name here) to come to church so they can know you too.
Please bless Back to Church Sunday and bless everyone in our church.
Help us all to know you better.
We pray in the name of Jesus. Amen

"Even if one person came, (and more did), it was good news! " St John the Evangelist - Bexley

This comes from the website where your can find more info...

Back To Church Sunday

2009-07-27T08:03:00.000+01:00

On September 27th 2009 half a million people will be inviting someone special back to church with them.

This is an excellent opportunity to invite a friend, neighbour, work colleague or just about anyone to come to church. They may be someone who has just slowly drifted out of church or they may be on the fringe and possible considering it. Your invite may be just the encouragement to get them through the door.

The London 2012 Olympics - PRAYER WALK

2009-07-27T08:01:00.000+01:00

More Than Gold (MTG) is the lead organisation for the official Church response to the London 2012 Olympics. MTG held an engagement conference at Wembley Stadium on Thursday 16th July and hoped to engage and envision key stakeholders to be proactive in preparing for the opportunities the Olympics offers to Churches.

The LBA Mission strategy Forum (MSF) hosted a reception for eastern District ministers at Custom House Baptist Church to discuss a baptist response to the Olympics. A brief summary of that reception will be circulated shortly along with PowerPoint presentations. At the end of the reception we explored what might possible be the 'way ahead' for Baptist Churches? One suggestion was a prayer walk From Victoria Park Baptist Church to the Olympic site and then on to Woodgrange Baptist Church for a meal and fellowship. This will take place at 10:00am on MONDAY 21st SEPTEMBER.

For more information visit here.

LBA Announcements - THE GATHERING

2009-07-27T07:54:00.001+01:00

10 October 2009

The Gathering seeks to encourage people to discover the richness of multiculturalism and fresh expressions of mission, leadership and worship. Our hope is that people will leave with a new perspective on church, key resources to connect with their community and will have made good connections with a range of people from different cultures.

This year's The Gathering event will aim to capture the worship and styles of the Indian subcontinent with the theme 'How is Jesus revealed in your culture?'. The Gathering event will be very informative and educative for leaders who are wanting to learn more about Asian culture and spiritualities so as to equip Christians to share the gospel with their local Asian community.

Everyone is welcome to The Gathering and will find the exploration into another culture enriching for their own.

· Date of the event: Saturday 10 October 09

· Place: Edmonton Baptist church, The Green, Monmouth Road, Edmonton, N9 0LS

· Time: Doors open at 10.30am

· Cost: £15 [£12.50 if you book before 31 July]

For more information or to book a place contact Deborah

Sylvena's a movie star!

2009-07-24T22:11:00.002+01:00

There is now a video taken at the LCM 'Fun with a purpose' book launch here with our very own Sylvena playing the starring role!!!

Fun With A Purpose

2009-06-29T20:48:00.005+01:00

Sylvena's book has been published!!

There's lots more information here on the London City Mission website where you can also order the book. If you're a Thursday Leisure Club regular you are probably in it...

Here is a taster of what they say:

"This brand new LCM publication by recently retired missionary Sylvena Farrant was developed as a result of her appointment to work with older people in a nursing home in the Bromley area. She found there were very few things available to the elderly and disabled to aid them as they journeyed through this most difficult time of their lives."

I especially like this bit:

"Sylvena’s work in this area has been thought by some to be ground-breaking..."

Excellent stuff!!

St Arbucks Thursday cancelled

2009-06-29T16:41:00.002+01:00

St Arbucks, Thursday on July 2nd has had to be cancelled.

Apologies for any inconvenience caused and we'll let you know future dates as soon as we have them...

Church Allotment - can you help?

2009-06-25T16:42:00.002+01:00

The church allotment is going to be cleared on Saturday and there are certain items that have been requested that you might have about your person that are needed...

Do you have...

2L plastic drink bottles which will make cloches
any spare wood e.g. from pallets to make raised beds
any plants that will be ready for planting out in two weeks time
any spare gardening eqiupment e.g. trowels, spades and the like?

If you do please can you contact Rob Shelley or Glenis Ruston
Thanks

Church Allotment

2009-06-24T10:15:00.001+01:00

Exciting news!

We have been allocated a plot at Ravensbourne Road Allotments. Work on clearing it has begun and if you would like to help in further activities, planting, tending etc. please contact Rob Shelley or Glenis Ruston.

Sri Lanka

2009-06-23T21:17:00.000+01:00

Simon will be returning to Sri Lanka in July to teach at the Lanka Bible College and be involved in ministry in a number of Baptist churches on the island.

Prayer information on the trip is available.

Sunday School Anniversary

2009-06-23T21:15:00.001+01:00

We will be celebrating our children's’ work on Sunday July 5th. Sunday School has a Praise Party in the hall starting at 10.15am.

Holiday at Home needs you!

2009-06-23T21:13:00.001+01:00

More helpers are needed to give our guests a fabulous time 18-21 August. Response forms are available - see Brian for details. A full team meeting will take place on Wednesday July 8th at 7.30pm.

Logos Hope Event Details

2009-06-17T15:47:00.003+01:00

Thursday 18th
Business Persons Lunch
A lunch appointment with a difference!
13.00 - 13.45
A lunch appointment with a difference! Enjoy a light lunch on board Logos Hope, meet members of the international crew, network with other Christian professionals and hear Stagecoach Group Co-founder Brian Souter share about faith in today’s business world.
Passes are £5 and can be obtained in advance via the Logos Hope office.

Saturday 20th
Going for Gold
10.00 – 11.30
The eyes of the world will be turned to London in 2012. An event for all those interested in mission leading up to the Olympics, with involvement from More than Gold.
Conference passes are £4 and can be obtained in advance via the Logos Hope office.

Saturday 20th
Hope starts here
17.00 – 18.00
(programme for the local church)
Discover the Logos Hope vision during this inspiring programme for the local Church.

Sunday 21st
Hope starts here
(programme for the local church)
14.30 – 15:30
16.30 – 17.30
18.30 – 19.30
20.30 – 21.30
Discover the Logos Hope vision.

Tuesday 23rd
Young professionals evening
19.30 – 21.00
Unwind on board the ship after a busy day in the office. Discover the Logos Hope vision, enjoy refreshments, meet other professionals and hear about hope in the workplace. Featuring Christian entrepreneur and former Mayor of London candidate Ram Gidoomal.
Passes are £5 and can be obtained in advance via the Logos Hope office.

London launch celebration - onshore venue
19.45 - 21.30
A time of thanksgiving for all God has done to launch Logos Hope. Hear OM Founder George Verwer share his vision for the vessel’s future ministry.
Onshore venue – Emmanuel Evangelical Church, 9-23 Marsham Street, Westminster, London SW1P 3DW .
Free admission but advance booking required via the Logos Hope office.

Alternative Wednesday

2009-06-17T11:43:00.000+01:00

Alternative Wednesday on 24 June will be a prayer time for all the organisations in the church. Please speak to Glenis if you would like to take part or if you have any prayer requests. Thank you.

Date for your diary

2009-06-17T11:41:00.001+01:00

Please note – the Church Family Meeting has been moved from Sunday 5 July to Sunday 12 July.

Prayer Ministry

2009-06-15T09:59:00.004+01:00

Sunday 21 June

At all our services on this day, there will be an extended opportunity for prayer ministry. If you would like prayer for any reason—perhaps you are facing a challenge, seeking healing or strength or new vision our prayer team will be happy to pray with you for you. Anointing with oil will also be available if you would like it.

Logos Hope

2009-06-08T09:42:00.006+01:00

From FRIDAY 12 to SUNDAY 28 JUNE, the OM ship Logos Hope will be docking at South Quay, Canary Wharf. Details of visiting times are displayed in the Welcome Area and there is lots more information here...

THE LONDON EVENT – Saturday 13 June 2009

2009-06-07T07:11:00.000+01:00

The London Event is the annual gathering of Baptists in London. It is being held on Saturday 13 June at Bloomsbury Central Baptist Church, 235 Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2H 8EP.

The theme is ‘Making Disciples – sharing the good news of Jesus’.

The afternoon session runs from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm. The afternoon includes a seminar programme and the Association’s AGM. See me for more details.

The evening programme will include worship, inspiration and celebration and will run from 7.00 pm – 9.15 pm. The preacher is Revd Dr Nigel Wright, the Principal of Spurgeon’s College.

Please do go...

Church anniversary

2009-06-04T22:43:00.003+01:00

Next week, Sunday 14 June, we’re celebrating our church anniversary.

We’ll be exploring what it means to be a community of Jesus followers in today’s world.

We will also be offering the chance to participate in an act of covenant renewal at Sunday Break and the Later Service for those of who missed the chance to take part last week at our Pentecost service.

St Arbucks tonight

2009-06-04T07:17:00.002+01:00

Be there tonight for a 7.00pm start and have a great evening...
More details on the website.

Giving online to George

2009-06-04T07:09:00.004+01:00

Only a few days now before George and John fly out to Marrakech and climb all 13,565 feet of Mount Toubkal.

Please do support them. George had a webpage here at justgiving.com where you can give securely online.

Mount Toubkal Challenge

2009-06-03T09:28:00.003+01:00

George Ruston & John Langford will attempt to climb Mount Toubkal in North Africa from June 6th to 13th.

George will be raising funds for Hope UK & John for SAT-7.

Sponsorship forms are in the Welcome Area.

St Arbucks Thursdays

2009-06-03T09:26:00.004+01:00

We’re gathering at Starbuck's in the Market Square on Thursday 4 June from 7:00pm.

There will be live music between 7:30pm and 8:30pm. There’ll be a chance to chat and consume the beverage and bun of your choice in a convivial atmosphere.

So bring a friend—especially one who doesn’t usually go to church—and come prepared to talk to people who turn up about who we are and why we’re here.

After this one, we’ll be there again on 2 July.

Pray 4 Bromley

2008-11-03T11:52:00.002Z

Saturday 8 November, 7.00 to 9.00pm at Bromley Civic Centre - an evening of united worship and prayer.

We attended this last year and hope to go again this Saturday - hope to see some of you there!

Robin and Lorna

Good news indeed...

2008-11-02T17:33:00.003Z

ALGERIA: CHRISTIANS ACQUITTED IN BLASPHEMY CASE

Verdict suggests Algerian government could be softening crackdown on Christians.

ISTANBUL, October 29 (Compass Direct News) – A court in northwestern Algeria today acquitted three Christians charged with blaspheming Islam and threatening a member of their congregation who re-converted to Islam.

The acquittal was announced in a court at Ain El-Turck, 15 kilometers (nine miles) west of the coastal city of Oran. The defendants believe the judge’s decision to acquit was due to the spurious evidence used against them.

The acquittal also comes as part of a larger trend of the Algerian government bowing to negative international media attention and government condemnations of such cases, they said.

Defendant Youssef Ourahmane said that as a result, a recent government crackdown against evangelical Christians has eased off in recent months.

“We had noticed the last four or five months the government is trying to back down a little bit,” Ourahmane said. “I think the pressure on them has been strong, such as condemnations from the U.S. and foreign ministries from France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria and Spain. This pressure from outside has embarrassed the Algerian government very much.”

Read more here...

The Prayer Connection - transforming your circumstances

2008-11-02T17:24:00.000Z

Trick or Treat?

2008-10-30T17:55:00.002Z

For anyone who didn't receive this by email:

If, like me, you dread 31st October here are some suggestions:
• Borrow a Rottweiler for the evening
• Put up a sign – “We burn witches here!”
• Redirect the little darlings to the Manse for mass exorcism.
Seriously, though, you could consider turning the whole ghastly business into a positive experience out of which some good might come. Down at Wesley Owen I found rainbow-coloured erasers with messages printed on such as, “God is love” or “God keeps His promises” (45p), pencils stating “You are special” or “Jesus loves me”, with an accompanying text (25p), and various other bits and bobs with a Christian flavour. These little gifts (much better than sweets) could be wrapped up individually and put in a basket as a “lucky dip”. If that feels like one extravagance too many, you might buy a packet of envelopes, perhaps decorate them with stickers to make them look irresistible and pop into each one a leaflet advertising the Dad’s Pop-in/Contact Messy Church event at the end of November.
If nothing else, they probably won’t bother you next October!
Brenda Crisp

Bromley Baptist Contact List October 2008

2008-10-19T22:04:00.003+01:00

I've just sent out the email version of the Bromley Baptist Contact List for October 2008. This is a list of all the friends of Bromley Baptist and you need to be included in the list to receive a copy. If you didn't receive one but would like to, please email me. (Let me know too if you receive it but no longer want it). Hope that makes sense...

A print version should be following along shortly...

Church Family Meeting

2008-10-01T19:54:00.002+01:00

There is a Church Family Meeting this coming Sunday (5th October) straight after the morning service with lunch included.

Don't worry if you haven't signed up for lunch for now - there will be extra provided - should be enough for all.

During this meeting we will be looking at a proposal for interim arrangements for support of our youth work.

Please come and also pray for the meeting and discussions.

Great facility

2008-09-29T09:31:00.007+01:00

Simon told us yesterday that in future MP3 versions of Sunday sermons will be available on the website. This is a super idea. Thank you to all who have been and will be involved in this initiative. Nowadays we find that, if we come out to the morning service, we just don't make it to the afternoon or evening - to have the facility in our own home now to listen to the sermon (without having to bother about tapes - although we have been grateful for this ministry in the past) is such an added bonus. Thanks to everybody concerned. Why not hop over to the church's website and take a look?

Hazel's card sale this Saturday

2008-09-23T11:04:00.004+01:00

Just doing a bit of blog-hopping and was reminded when I arrived at Hazel's place that it's her card sale supporting the work of Tear Fund this coming Saturday 27 September.

Her cards are gorgeous and you can see a sneak preview here

Please do go along...

A welcome surprise

2008-09-22T10:12:00.002+01:00

I had an email from someone today wanting to get involved with the blog, which is just great. I'm looking forward to hearing their views, ideas, chatting with them, just about anything really.

If anyone else would like to do the same please get in touch here - the more the merrier...

One year on...

2008-09-14T21:06:00.001+01:00

...missing Andrew Gosden is still a blank space in family’s heart...

Linda sent this link to an article in last Friday's Times.

Andrew still missing one year on

2008-09-14T17:09:00.005+01:00

Andrew Gosden went missing a year ago today. A service is being held to mark the timing and leaflets are to be distributed in the hope that someone's memory will be jogged. Our prayers are with the family and for his safe return.

CaféChurch in August

2008-07-14T13:38:00.002+01:00

Tuesday 12 August at 7pm will be the next CaféChurch in Bromley at Costa Coffee, Market Square. The focus this month will be Fair Trade.

CafeChurch Network

2008-06-01T18:36:00.004+01:00

CafeChurch Network is coming to Bromley!

Tuesday 10 June at 7pm sees the launch of CafeChurch Bromley in Costa Coffee, Market Square. We'll be taking the elements of a cafe church service that we're used to running here at Park Road, and presenting them inside Costa's.

This is a perfect opportunity to invite friends and family that might be just beginning to think about faith, or who need a way of connecting with God, his people and his church again.

The CafeChurch Network co-ordinates congregations that are working with Costa to provide a church on every high street, and here in Bromley we'll run once a month on the second Tuesday.

It will take a team to run it, and a good number of people have come forward, but if you could pray for CafeChurch, welcome people on the door, or host a discussion around a coffee table please sign up and speak to Jonathan.

Half term week

2008-05-27T07:04:00.003+01:00

It's half term this week (hence the lovely weather we're having!) so the usual weekday groups aren't meeting...

...except for Alternative Wednesday at 8pm in the church where Jonathan will be Introducing Biblical Meditation and Thursday Leisure Club which meets as normal.

If you are able to help on Thursday with crafts, clearing tables and equipment, please contact Sylvena. Thanks.

Drop-In at 4pm on Wednesday in the Bug Hut and PYP Movie Night at 8pm on Friday are also happening. Please contact Jonathan for more details.

Whatever you're doing have a great week

Alternative Wednesday invitation

2008-05-11T06:43:00.002+01:00

This Wednesday is an 'alternative' week.

Michelle has been doing an overview of the Old Testament and it has been great. Not only has it been memorable which is all important but God has spoken to us through her. Do try and come to the next sessions if you can. Don't worry if you've missed some because she does a recap at the start. They are:

May 14 - Samuel to the Division of the Kingdom
June 11 - Prophets and Scattering to exile to Return

and don't forget on May 28 Jonathan will be looking at 'Understanding and Practising Biblical Meditation'

All are welcome at the church from 7.45pm for refreshments and an 8pm start. Hope to see you there...

Anyone for a picnic?

2008-05-09T14:04:00.002+01:00

I was interested to read the recent comments on this site about food. I missed the orginal discussion at the church meeting, but I'm all in favour of food and eating together! The lively gathering after the visit from the African children's choir recently was a good example.

You may have read that a church picnic is being planned at Manna House in June. I think it's a great idea, but why just stop at one? I was sharing a meal with some friends from church last night (!) and we agreed that it would be good to revive an old tradition of regular picnics on Sundays after church - weather permitting!

We used to meet at High Elms, but wonder whether this has become too crowded now and parking may be a problem. Has anyone got any ideas of a suitable venue? - Easy to get to, plenty of space for children to run around, plenty of parking, and access to toilets!

We're hoping to start on Sunday 25 May - everyone's welcome - so keep your eyes and ears open!

Family Fun Day

2008-05-09T08:07:00.002+01:00

Saturday 10 May

2.00pm to 4.30pm

Something for all the family - Bouncy castle, face painting, false tattoos/nails, side shows, craft, lucky dip and refreshments

To raise money for Demelza House - a children's hospice in Kent.

Come along, bring your family and friends, it's a great afternoon out...

Congratulations Brian!

2008-05-07T11:28:00.002+01:00

At this year's Baptist Assembly in Blackpool, Brian Reed, Minister for Pastoral Care, was formally recognised as a Fully Accredited Minister. This follows a period of study, reflection and affirmation by the local church and the Baptist Union of Great Britain.

We're delighted to have been part of this milestone, and pray that God would continue to bless Brian's ministry amongst us.

In the above picture, you can See Brian receiving a welcoming handshake from Jonathan Edwards, the General Secretary of the Baptist Union of Great Britain. In the envelope Jonathan's holding is Brian's certificate of ministerial recognition. Brian was also welcomed by John Weaver, this year's BU President and Alistair Brown, the General Director of BMS World Mission. It was a moving and affirming occasion, in front of a gathering of approximately 1800 people, and had been preceded by prayer and anointing with oil at Prism, the interactive and creative strand of the Baptist Assembly.

Food in Church

2008-05-01T03:41:00.002+01:00

I just wanted to say that I was really pleased to hear Betty speak out at the recent church meeting. Despite discussion on what I really wanted to hear about being artificially constrained, I was glad to hear that some people were willing to speak up for themselves. I actually disagree with Betty's point on food in church, but totally and wholeheartedly support the sentiment behind it.

I agree that spending the church's (your and my) money on lavish entertainment is hardly what Mission is all about. However, Mission is about outreach. Whatever it takes to bring the unchurched into the building, to hear the word of God. If it takes Fellowship food to do that then I am all for it, even if those in the congregation could well afford to pay for it. We do not know this of everyone and should therefore not make assumptions. For instance, Alfa courses seem to be so much more productive when they include a meal. I have been to both kinds, so can speak from experience.

There is Hope in Friendship

2008-04-28T10:05:00.003+01:00

As part of Bromley Salvation Army's Mission Week, you are invited to a "Friendship Festival" on Thursday 1st May 2008 1.30pm - 2.30pm at the Salvation Army, Bromley, Ethelbert Road.

Light refreshments served from 12.30pm.

Speaker: Lt. Col. Glenys Heins

Soloists: Anthony Harris and Tristan Lancey

Some dates for your diary

2008-04-09T21:33:00.003+01:00

Here are some alternative Wednesday dates for your diary...

Michelle is doing an overview of the Old Testament on

April 23 - Creation to Entry to Egypt
April 30 - Slavery to Judges
May 14 - Samuel to the Division of the Kingdom
June 11 - Prophets and Scattering to exile to Return

and on May 28 Jonathan will be looking at 'Understanding and Practising Biblical Meditation'

All sounds really good - hope to see you there...

London Marathon

2008-04-03T13:28:00.000+01:00

Steve Garvey will be running on Sunday 13th April and is raising money for Smile International's work in India. A sponsorship form is available in the Welcome Area.

Alternatively, you can sponsor directly through www.justgiving.co.uk and follow the links to Smile International.

Alternative Wednesday

2008-04-03T13:22:00.002+01:00

This coming Wednesday 9 April Prayer there will be a discussion with Jonathan who will be joined by Cid Latty from the Café Church Network to share the vision for beginning a new congregation in a local coffee shop.

There will also be a opportunity to go prayer walking around the neighbourhood.

Church Family Meeting

2008-04-03T13:19:00.002+01:00

The Church Family Meeting is on Sunday 20 April after the morning service.

Please could you sign up in the Welcome Area to let us know if you are coming so lunch can be provided. Alternatively drop me an email. Thanks.

Look forward to seeing you there

Baptist Assembly, Blackpool

2008-03-28T11:19:00.004Z

The annual gathering of our Baptist family is from Friday 2 May to Monday 5 May. This year it is enlivened by the fact that our own Brian Reed will be recognised as a fully accredited Baptist minister at the National Mission Evening. If you would like to go, it is not too late to book and the church would help to cover some of your costs if you go as our delegate. More information here and from Simon.

festival of the nations

2008-03-24T13:39:00.006Z

Sunday 27 April 4.45pm -9.00pm

Come along to a special afternoon and evening of music, teaching and feasting:

At Sunday Break The African Kidzsing choir from Johannesburg, South Africa will be singing and Simon will be preaching on Shoved by the Spirit from Acts 21:15-26.

After that we’ll be sharing food from around the world together and then at around 7.00pm we are hosting a concert with Gareth Davies-Jones who will be launching his new album Water & Light.

There’ll also be a fair-trade stall, including wonderful fruit juices from Colombia. More details will be posted in the bulletin nearer the time. Bring your friends to some or all of what promises to be an exciting and enriching evening.

Six months on

2008-03-19T19:58:00.004Z

March 14 marked six months since Andrew Gosden disappeared. Sport Relief 2008 are supporting the charity 'Missing People' and on YouTube there is a short video with Matt Dawson interviewing Kevin and Glenys, Andrew's parents.

Please watch it, share it, and continue to pray for Andrew and the whole family.

Passion reviews

2008-03-19T17:43:00.008Z

I hope you've managed to catch BBC's The Passion. I know I've been riveted - the tension is palpable and I'm looking forward to the concluding episodes. They are on Good Friday at 9.00pm and Easter Sunday at 7.30pm. Of course we'd rather you came along with some friends to discuss the issues at the Easter Sunday services at 4.45pm and 7.00pm.

In case you haven't seen any of it, Episode 1 and Episode 2 are available for a few more days on BBC iPlayer and there's now lots of stuff on the BBC website including some interesting articles. Quite a few are written by Mark Goodacre, Associate Professor of New Testament in the Religion Department at Duke University and historical consultant for the series. He has helpfully done a round up of the reviews which you can read here on his blog.

Simon has also posted his views over on his blog. Feel free to let us know what you think here or better still see you Sunday.

Meanwhile a very happy Easter to you all...

Update on Algerian Christians Facing Sentencing

2008-03-19T14:53:00.002Z

I recieved this update today from VOM...

In February, Middle East Concern (MEC) requested prayer from Christians around the world on behalf of Christians facing court hearings and awaiting official verdicts in Algeria (see www.persecution.net/news/algeria4.html).

On March 4, they requested prayer for three items. First, one Christian brother had a court hearing scheduled for Wednesday, March 5. The believer concerned had been told informally that he would be sentenced to one year in prison and fined. On March 6, MEC happily reported that he had been acquitted. According to MEC, two other items require your prayers. The written verdicts for three Christian men accused of insulting Islam was expected on February 12 but has still not been received. They have been told informally that they will be sentenced to prison and fined. Another brother has a hearing scheduled for April 2. Christians in Algeria ask that we continue to pray that our three brothers awaiting a written verdict will not be sentenced to jail and that the brother involved in the hearing on April 2 will be acquitted. Please pray that the media attention will have a positive impact on the church, drawing more people to respond to the love and truth of Jesus. Pray also that fellowships recently closed in Algeria will be allowed to reopen and that believers will find worship and fellowship with others. Pray that God will provide pastors for the groups of Christian migrant workers in the country. Finally, pray that Algerian officials will hear the gospel of Jesus Christ and respond to His love.Go to www.persecution.net/country/algeria.htm to learn more about the increasing pressure being put on Christians in Algeria.

Christian executed in Pakistan after confession under torture

2008-03-14T11:45:00.000Z

Please pray - more details here

The Passion Schedule

2008-03-13T09:43:00.005Z

Watch the series through the week, then come along and talk about it on Sunday evening. Here's the schedule...

Episode One Sunday 16 March 8.00pm - 9.00pm, BBC1
Episode Two Monday 17 March 8.30pm - 9.00pm, BBC1
Episode Three Friday 21 March 9.00pm - 10.00pm, BBC1
Episode Four Sunday 23 March time 7.30pm - 8.00pm, BBC1

Episodes 1-3 omnibus: Sunday 23 March, 2.15pm - 4.40pm, BBC1

More details about each episode can be found on the BBC website here.

BBC's The Passion

2008-03-12T19:47:00.009Z

We have been in talks with the BBC today! In response to an email asking permission to use images from BBC's The Passion, Tim Leith phoned and sent over some images for us to use to publicise the programme. Thank you if you read this Tim...

He also sent a link to some flickr images which you can see here.
Please do watch the series, details here in preparation for Easter Sunday and any conversations you might have with people.

Image copyright BBC

On a mission to help people on the streets

2008-03-12T18:22:00.002Z

There's some good publicity for Street Pastors this week in the Newshopper, which focuses particularly on the Beckenham Team - there's an article which you can read here (or in the paper of course) and the lead letter is also on the same subject.

Everyone welcome

2008-03-11T21:08:00.020Z

image copyright BBC

will the real Jesus please stand up?

Following the BBC’s excellent and intriguing retelling of the events of the first Easter, come and talk about who Jesus is, what these events mean for us in 2008.

On Easter Sunday:
At 4:45pm there’ll be a presentation on the Jesus of the gospels wrapped in a service full of familiar Easter hymns.
At 7:00pm, we’ll be having an interactive forum on issues raised by the programme and the gospels – who is Jesus? Are the gospels true? What does it mean to follow him in 2008?

Come and join the conversation. Bring a friend.

The Passion schedule

2008-03-08T20:34:00.008Z

In the run up to Easter the BBC is screening a 4-part series called The Passion. The first two programmes are due to run on Sunday 16 March from 8:00-9:00pm and on Monday 17 March from 8:30pm-9:00pm. The final two episodes will be screened on 22 and 23 March at times to be announced.

We’ll be focusing on issues raised in this series at two guest services on Easter Day. Invite your friends. There are now full details on the BBC website with information about the cast and interviews with the director and others involved in making the series.

Special invitation cards will be available next week so you can invite your friends and neighbours to our special services at 4:45pm and 7pm.

Algeria

2008-03-04T14:22:00.003Z

I receive a bi-monthly prayer alert from Release International which we are encouraged to share with our church and home groups etc. This time there is a request for prayer for Algeria and so I've posted it here.

Christians in Algeria report a concerted campaign to rein in the church as the government starts to use laws limiting evangelism.

At least seven house churches have been closed down in recent months. And several believers have been formally charged under legislation that has lain dormant for two years. Newspapers have published false claims that churches ‘pay’ their members for converts.
Within the last week, a source told RI that the authorities were not renewing residency visas for foreign church workers.

RI’s sources believe that the government is yielding to pressure from Muslim leaders to use laws which were adopted in March 2006 but never implemented. The laws forbid anyone from trying to ‘shake the faith of a Muslim’ and order non-Muslims to register all buildings used for worship. Penalties include heavy fines or up to five years in jail.

One of the first to be convicted under this law was a French pastor given a one-year suspended prison sentence in Oran in January. His crime: praying with Cameroonian immigrants at a private home not registered for worship. His co-defendant, a Muslim doctor, was sentenced to two years in jail for giving the immigrants medicine provided by a church.

Three Algerian Christians, awaiting sentence for ‘insulting Islam’, have been told to expect a three-year jail term. And at least two other Christians are due to stand trial over the next two months. Christians make up less than one per cent of Algeria’s population of 33 million.

• Ask God to strengthen the faith of Algerian Christians who are under pressure.

• Pray that charges against Christians tried in the coming months will be dropped.

Sources: Assist News Service; CBN News; China Aid; Christian Solidarity Worldwide; Christian Today; Compass Direct; International Christian Concern; International Crisis Group; Jubilee Campaign USA: The Voice of the Martyrs Canada.

Thanks

Andrew

2008-03-02T20:46:00.005Z

I've been searching for some images for The Passion series from the BBC for the web and I keep coming across this picture of Andrew still missing. Please pray especially for Glenys, his mum, and the whole family on this Mother's Day. Thanks.

The Passion

2008-03-02T19:47:00.019Z

In Holy Week the BBC is running a series called The Passion, dramatising the events of the first Easter. It starts Sunday 16th March 2008 on BBC1. We'll be focussing on issues raised in the series at two guest services on Easter Day. Invite your friends. There are now full details on the BBC website with information about the cast and interviews with the director and others involved in making the series.

Special invitation cards will be coming soon so you can invite your friends and neighbours to our special services at 4.45pm and 7pm.

Happy belated blogversary

2008-03-02T19:28:00.004Z

I've just been reading Hazel's blog and it is a year old - congratulations on keeping up such an entertaining blog, Hazel. I've said it before here but it has a real community feel to it and even I feel I know some of the people who visit frequently and leave comments.

It made me realise that this blog must be about the same age and yes, it is around a year ago that this one got going...

Another day at the office

2008-02-26T14:47:00.007Z

I've just got back from the offices of Release International where I work as a volunteer on a Tuesday doing a bit of admin and whatever is needed.

For those of you who don't know, Release International, is an organisation which supports persecuted Christians and their families around the world and you can find out more here.

Today I sent a few emails, stuffed a few envelopes, opened the post and met Rose. Rose is the niece of Haik Hovsepian who was the leader of the Evangelical Christians of Iran. He was martyred for his faith in 1994 and in particular for speaking out about the wrongful imprisonment and death sentence of a zealous Christian convert, Mehdi Dibaj. Although Mehdi was released, Haik disappeared soon after and his body was found twelve days later. He had been stabbed to death. All this and more we saw on a DVD called 'A cry from Iran' which was produced by Haik's two sons to tell their father's story and that of other Christians in Iran still being martyred and persecuted for their faith. It was incredibly moving especially sitting next to Rose.

Find out more about the DVD here and please pray for them.

Catching up

2008-02-24T20:07:00.003Z

I felt I couldn't let February slip by without even one post. I had intended to update this every week but you know how great good intentions are...

Anyway I'm taking the opportunity of sending you off elsewhere. That's the beauty of the internet so here goes.

We had a fantastic service this morning with Mat Wilson on this BMS Sunday. He challenged us all to get involved in a number of ways with the work of BMS World mission.

I also met Hope Somerville for the first time and if you haven't checked out Jonathan's blog there's a gorgeous picture of her there.

There's a concert this coming Saturday in aid of Hope UK at the church at 7.00pm.

I was also given a leaflet for Women's World Day of Prayer at St. Andrew's Church, Burnt Ash Lane in Bromley at 10.30am.

Our very own dear Hazel is holding another Card Sale in aid of Tearfund - pray her health holds up - and I know from experience you'll be guaranteed a warm welcome, as well as the opportunity to buy some fabulous cards, so please do support her on Saturday 8 March from 10am-12noon and 2-4pm.

Continue to pray too for Youssef and Hie-Tee and I've put here a link to CBN news report a while back which reports on the amazing growth of the church in Algeria.

That's all for now but I hope to be back before April!

a fresh look to Sunday evenings

2008-01-27T18:24:00.000Z

Starting next week, Sunday 3 February, the evening services will be at 4.45pm and 7.00pm.

Details can be found in the weekly bulletin, on the website and over at Simon's blog...

covenant

2008-01-24T13:05:00.000Z

As promised the 'covenant and membership document' and the 'declaration form' are now on the website.

Just follow the links: downloads>church documents from the home page.

Church Family Meeting

2008-01-21T22:54:00.000Z

While it's fresh in my mind, I thought I'd share a bit of what happened at the church meeting for those who couldn't make it on Sunday. Simon's already posted his thoughts here

It was really well attended with around 120 people staying to lunch and the meeting. Thanks to Gill, Caroline and the team for a fab lunch.

It was an AGM so Nick gave a membership report and there are now five new members which is great. In Bob's absence, Dave gave a summary of the annual finance report which was accepted. You can email Bob if you'd like a copy. There is also a new finance team in place headed by Iozeph who will be taking over from Bob - a huge thank you to him for all his amazing hard work.

The covenant was agreed by a majority and when I get the chance I'll post it here and on the website. If you can't wait then I know there are a few copies in the church office. This covenant will be signed annually at Pentecost but this year it will be at Easter. Please chat to any of the ministry team or leaders if you want to know more. Throughout February and March the process will be explained to those not at the meeting and it was made clear that no-one will be taken off the membership list if they are already members.

Also nine new leaders were co-opted all with specific areas of responsibilities.

Oh and while we're without a church administrator, I'll be taking on some of that role so please contact me if you need to and I'll do my best to point you in the right direction. It is hoped there will be an admin team along the same lines as the finance team so please if you're interested let me or one of the leaders know. Can't tell you how welcome you'd be made to feel...

And if that wasn't enough from February there'll be a new evening programme - watch this space for details.

Thanks very much to Glenis and her team for looking after the children who had a great time.

Minutes will be available in the church office in due course.

Pray for Bromley

2008-01-09T20:43:00.000Z

The first meeting of the New Year will be on Friday Jan 18th at Bromley Baptist. This is the start date of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The meeting is organised primarily for Central Bromley churches - but obviously open to anyone to attend.

Church Family Meeting

2008-01-09T20:38:00.000Z

Just a reminder that there is to be a Church Family Meeting on Sunday 20 January after the morning service and following lunch.

Please sign up this Sunday on sheets in the Welcome Area if you are coming and need feeding...

Quiz and Pudding Night

2008-01-09T10:31:00.000Z

Quiz and Pudding Night

Saturday 19th January in Bromley Baptist Church Hall

7.30 pm

Come as a team or make up one when you arrive

Donations in aid of getting Ben R-S to New Zealand

for his YWAM Discipleship Training School!

RSVP to Nick

Dick van Zweden

2008-01-06T19:15:00.000Z

We were saddened to learn recently of the death of Dick van Zweden, aged 54.

Dick and Carla, from Holland, worshipped with us in the late 70s/early 80s while serving with Operation Mobilisation and were part of the Over 21s group. Dick was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy over 20 years ago and has gradually deteriorated. As well as Carla, he leaves four children, all in their teens and twenties.

We have been in touch with Carla to express our sympathy and also on behalf of Bromley Baptist Church. Please remember Carla and the family in your prayers.

New year, new responsibilities

2008-01-01T13:10:00.000Z

It is with a mixture of emotions that Robin and I face the new year as we take over responsibility for welcome care – we feel excited but we still have a lot to learn. Alan and Anne have done an excellent job for many years and are a hard act to follow.

We know that we are not doing it alone. It goes without saying that we do it with God’s help, but also with the support of the existing welcome care team.

However, welcoming isn’t restricted to the welcome care team. We would like everyone to see that they have a role to play in welcoming newcomers. It’s been said before that the hardest steps for a newcomer to make are from the forecourt gates to the church doors – that’s why we stand on the forecourt and greet visitors and have deacons and stewards on duty at the doors. But it doesn’t stop there. The welcome needs to continue inside and everyone can play a role here.

If you see someone sitting on their own, why not go and sit with them? If you don’t know the person sitting next to you, introduce yourself, find out about them, invite them to go through to the welcome area for coffee after the morning service, encourage them to fill in their details on the purple sheet, etc.

Many of us are members of Bromley Baptist because someone extended a welcome to us and visitors often say that they have been made to feel very welcome. Your saying hello to the stranger next to you could be the one thing that encourages them to come back. Conversely, some people have not returned because no one has spoken to them once they’ve entered the church building.

We hope that we can count on all of your support and would be pleased to hear if you have any ideas about how we can improve the way we do things.

...and a happy New Year

2007-12-30T19:51:00.000Z

Please join us for a WatchNight service from 11.30pm to 12.15am if you can.

A prayer for you to reflect on what the New Year holds for you as an individual and us as a church:

Lord of the ages,
you are our beginning and our end:
we place our days within your care.
We praise you
for your faithfulness in the past
and trust you for your constant care.
We put ourselves in your safe keeping,
trusting you to guard and guide us
this day and every day;
and we offer our lives
for your service
in this church, our workplaces and community,
through Jesus Christ
your eternal Son, our Saviour.
Amen.

Christmas Greetings to you all

2007-12-23T09:20:00.001Z

Here's wishing you all a very peaceful Christmas and don't forget if you want to send greetings there's still plenty of time to write on the big card in the Welcome Area and donate to Project Malawi.

How do we treat people? Part Five

2007-12-23T09:18:00.000Z

Here's the last one - thanks to Roy for sending them over.

Fifth Important Lesson - Giving When it Counts...

Many years ago, when I worked as a volunteer at a hospital, I got to know a little girl named Liz who was suffering from a rare & serious disease. Her only chance of recovery appeared to be a blood transfusion from her 5-year old brother, who had miraculously survived the same disease and had developed the antibodies needed to combat the illness. The doctor explained the situation to her little brother, and asked the little boy if he would be willing to give his blood to his sister.

I saw him hesitate for only a moment before taking a deep breath and saying, 'Yes I'll do it if it will save her.' As the transfusion progressed, he lay in bed next to his sister and smiled, as we all did, seeing the colour returning to her cheek. Then his face grew pale and his smile faded.

He looked up at the doctor and asked with a trembling voice, 'Will I start to die right away'.

Being young, the little boy had misunderstood the doctor; he thought he was going to have to give his sister all of his blood in order to save her.

How do we treat people? Part Four

2007-12-23T09:17:00.000Z

Fourth Important Lesson - The Obstacle in Our Path.

In ancient times, a King had a boulder placed on a roadway. Then he hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the king's wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it. Many loudly blamed the King for not keeping the roads clear, but none did anything about getting the stone out of the way.

Then a peasant came along carrying a load of vegetables. Upon approaching the boulder, the peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the stone to the side of the road. After much pushing and straining, he finally succeeded. After the peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been. The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the King indicating that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway. The peasant learned what many of us never understand!

Every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve our condition.

How do we treat people? Part Three

2007-12-23T09:15:00.000Z

Frustrating how the posts appear backwards but you'll work it out.

Third Important Lesson - Always remember those who serve.

In the days when an ice cream sundae cost much less, a 10-year-old boy entered a hotel coffee shop and sat at a table. A waitress put a glass of water in front of him.

'How much is an ice cream sundae?' he asked.
'Fifty cents,' replied the waitress.
The little boy pulled is hand out of his pocket and studied the coins in it.
'Well, how much is a plain dish of ice cream?' he inquired.
By now more people were waiting for a table and the waitress was growing impatient.
'Thirty-five cents,' she brusquely replied.
The little boy again counted his coins.
'I'll have the plain ice cream,' he said.

The waitress brought the ice cream, put the bill on the table and walked away. The boy finished the ice cream, paid the cashier and left. When the waitress came back, she began to cry as she wiped down the table. There, placed neatly beside the empty dish, were two nickels and five pennies..

You see, he couldn't have the sundae, because he had to have enough left to leave her a tip.

How do we treat people? Part Two

2007-12-23T09:12:00.000Z

Sorry for the delay in posting the other ways to think about how we treat people - children breaking up from school is my excuse - they are sooooooo excited.

Anyway here goes...

Second Important Lesson - Pick Up in the Rain

One night, at 11:30 p.m., an elderly African-American woman was standing on the side of an Alabama highway trying to endure a lashing rainstorm. Her car had broken down and she desperately needed a ride.
Soaking wet, she decided to flag down the next car.
A young white man stopped to help her, generally unheard of in those conflict-filled 60s. The man took her to safety, helped her get assistance and put her into a taxicab.

She seemed to be in a big hurry, but wrote down his address and thanked him. Seven days went by and a knock came on the man's door. To his surprise, a
giant console colour TV was delivered to his home. A special note was attached..

It read:
'Thank you so much for assisting me on the highway the other night. The rain drenched not only my clothes, but also my spirits. Then you came along.
Because of you, I was able to make it to my dying husband's bedside just before he passed away... God bless you for helping me and unselfishly serving others.'

Sincerely, Mrs. Nat King Cole.

How do we treat people? Part One

2007-12-19T16:40:00.000Z

Roy sent me this which came via Colin. There are five 'lessons' in all to make us think about how we treat others. I'll post the others later...

First Important Lesson - Cleaning Lady.

During my second month of college, our professor gave us a pop quiz. I was a conscientious student and had breezed through the questions until I read the last one:

'What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?'

Surely this was some kind of joke. I had seen the cleaning woman several times. She was tall, dark-haired and in her 50s, but how would I know her name?

I handed in my paper, leaving the last question blank. Just before class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward our quiz grade.

'Absolutely,' said the professor. 'In your careers, you will meet many people. All are significant. They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say 'hello.'

I've never forgotten that lesson. I also learned her name was Dorothy.

any question answered

2007-12-19T07:54:00.000Z

I've just heard on the radio that there's a new text service called 'AQA' which stands for 'Any Question Answered.' Apparently they have around 100000 researchers on hand to answer any question that you care to text in.

And the top three questions are:

How can I make a million?
How do you stop global warming?
Is there a God?

It's good to catch up...

2007-12-14T10:38:00.000Z

Lorna dropped by the other evening to invite us to the home group social. I do miss not going on a regular basis but as all parents know 8.00pm doesn't always work. She arrived about half past nine just as we'd finished eating dinner!

It was good to catch up and especially to learn how Daniel and Sarah are doing. Many of the students are back home now or will be soon for Christmas.

Time flies so fast - apparently Daniel finishes soon and it doesn't seem five minutes ago he was deciding where to go. He's been doing journalism and Lorna kindly sent a link so you can read an article he wrote recently for the Newshopper interviewing Simon. He'd like to point out he didn't write the headline! You can read it here.

Also why not take time this Christmas to catch up with a few people you haven't seen for a while...

Project Malawi

2007-12-03T22:29:00.000Z

Following on from the success of last year's goat herds, this year there will again be a single big card in the Welcome Area for everyone to send each other seasonal greetings.

You're invited to donate the money saved on cards and postage to Project Malawi, a UK registered charity that works in partnership with national agencies, bringing care for the whole person - mind, body and spirit - to remote Malawian villages.

You can read about the charity here as well as hearing more from David and Gill Mason on Sunday 16 December.

Christmas Voices

2007-11-24T19:13:00.000Z

Andrew has now been missing for 10 weeks with no news.

There is a BBC1 programme on Sunday 2nd December which the family hope might bring more sightings or information called Christmas Voices about them facing Christmas without their son. It airs at 10:00am - 11:00am on BBC1. Kev (Andrew's dad) asks that we let anyone know who might be interested.

Also if you are on facebook, there is a group set up (type andrew gosden in the search box) which is updated from time to time, please spread it as the more people that see his face and are aware the better. Andrew's sister, Charlotte, has set up a similar group on bebo here - as more teenagers might see this.

And goes without saying really but please keep on praying...

cafe church

2007-11-20T09:21:00.000Z

It's our birthday! We're 144 years old - and some of us are looking pretty good.

We're celebrating this weekend: a special all-age service in the morning (10:30 kick off) with Nick Lear and then in the evening we're having a party.

There'll be balloons, games and special party food. We'll be looking back and thanking God for his goodness over many years. And we'll be looking forward, dreaming dreams about how we can continue to earth the Kingdom in Bromley.

Everyone's welcome. No need to RSVP - just turn up.

We start at 6:30pm and will finish around 7:45pm

The Remains of the Day

2007-11-19T15:45:00.000Z

It was good to hear from and be able to pray for the work Ali Davis is involved in with Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) on Sunday.

There is a documentary about the persecuted church in Nigeria being shown on November 20 and 21. The Remains of the Day, a co-production by CSW, Release International, and The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada, is being broadcast on Genesis TV (Sky 772) on Tuesday November 20 at 9.00 pm. It will be followed by an hour-long studio and phone-in discussion at 10.00 pm. The documentary and discussion will be repeated the following day at 8.00 am.

The aim is raise awareness of the plight of Christians in Nigeria and to generate prayer and support. Thousands of Christians have been killed in violent persecution in Nigeria. The Remains of the Day covers the story of five Christians in Maiduguri in 2006, as a mob fanned out to torch their houses, churches and businesses – and kill 65.

This powerful hour-long documentary is also available on DVD, for a suggested donation of £10 - please call RI on 01689 823491 if you'd like a copy.

Still no news

2007-11-15T06:39:00.000Z

I heard from Linda yesterday and there's still no news on Andrew. Please continue to pray. Thanks.

Pray for China

2007-11-13T07:02:00.000Z

This coming Sunday 18 November is the UK's International Day of Prayer for the persecuted church. Please if you can, remember China and Chinese Christians in your prayers.

Rob Frost, Release International's president says, 'China needs our prayer. This emerging superpower, host of next year's Olympics, is home to the largest unregistered church in the world. These house churches have experienced incredible church growth over recent years - but still face many challenges ahead.'

And here's a prayer from a young Chinese believer,
'Dear Jesus Christ, we thank you so much for your miraculous movement in China. We ask you continue to give your light, and send your Holy Spirit.
We pray especially for the government, we pray that you give them wisdom, give them a godly character.
We pray that you would raise up more Chinese leaders, so they can share your gospel, that they will lead a godly life for you, so people can see Jesus through them.
Lord we pray that you continue to send your Holy Spirit and transform lives in China. Give the Chinese church your wisdom, your strength, and your faith.
We ask you to continue to be with your children in China and make them a blessing to other nations.'

If you're interested you can find more resources here and here.

Putting our ethos and values in black and white

2007-11-07T14:40:00.000Z

The following statement attempts to summarise what it is the church stands for and is designed to stand alongside the covenant (which is still in the process of being agreed).

Bromley Baptist Church – ethos and values

We are a Christ-centred community believing Jesus to be God in the flesh, believing his death and resurrection to be the source of our salvation and new life, knowing him to be Lord of our lives as individuals and as a church.
We are a church of the Bible holding to the evangelical Christian faith as expressed in the ancient creeds and the Evangelical Alliance basis of faith.
We are a church of the Spirit believing that all believers need to be filled and go on being filled with God’s Spirit, growing in his fruit (Galatians 5:22-23) and being helped to discover and exercise the gifts God has given them.
We are a Baptist church practicing believer’s baptism on profession of faith and a desire to be a disciple of Jesus and encouraging full participation by all members in the decision-making life of the church.
We are a covenant community, bound together by a commitment to follow Jesus and walk together in love. Membership of our church is via agreement with our covenant and annual commitment to it at our covenant renewal service and is expressed most fully every time we break bread together.
We are partners in God’s mission, each sent to live out the gospel in our daily lives, making Jesus known through what we do, how we treat others and what we say. We commit our resources and those of the church to the creative and loving proclamation of the gospel in our town and across the world.

Our core values: We seek to be a community like those modeled to us in the New Testament in Acts 2:42-47, Colossians 3:1-17, Ephesians 4:11-16 and Philippians 2:1-18. In particular we are committed to:

Being an inclusive fellowship – all people are welcome to participate fully in the life of the church regardless of age, sex, ethnic background or educational attainment; each individual will be equally valued and enabled to participate in the life of the church to the fullest extent possible.
Loving one another – we aim to grow in relationships, recognizing that it is through one another that we encounter God and are strengthened to live for him a complex world.
Seeking the blessing of our neighbours – we want to share the good news of Jesus in such a way that many will come to faith and even more will feel the benefit; we want to do good to our neighbours because we follow a God who indiscriminately does good to everyone.
Caring for creation – we believe we need to be good stewards of all God’s creation. This will include creative and mission-focused use of our buildings and prayerful use of all the resources he has entrusted to us.
Creative and relevant expressions of community that nurture existing disciples and attract others to Jesus.

Pray for Bromley

2007-11-04T07:11:00.000Z

Next Saturday 10 November is an opportunity to pray for Bromley with other churches from across the Borough.

This first borough-wide united prayer meeting will take place in the Great Hall at the Civic Centre, Stockwell Close, Bromley from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. The focus of the meeting will be the needs of the community.

Pray for Bromley have a website here and there is also a flyer advertising this event here.

A perfect son, a model family — so what made him run away?

2007-10-29T14:46:00.000Z

Simon pointed out this article that he'd read in The Times last Saturday. It's a brave interview with Glenys and Kevin Gosden which is painfully honest. You can read it here and as it says Andrew's is an unusual case not merely for the length of time he has been missing, but also because there seems to be not the slightest clue explaining his decision to leave home.

If you think you have seen Andrew, call Missing People’s 24-hour, confidential Freefone service on 0500 700 700, or e-mail seensomeone@missingpeople.org.uk

Prayer vigil for Andrew

2007-10-23T22:43:00.000+01:00

Kevin, Andrew's dad who has commented here on a previous post, reports that sadly there is no further news about Andrew and their fears worsen as time goes by.

Their church is holding another day of fasting and prayer tomorrow with a prayer vigil from 6 to 7. He asks that if you are further afield to pray with them at that time.

So if you can, please do pray especially as Kevin describes how people's prayers and practical responses continue to encourage and touch them very much. Please also keep Linda and her family in your prayers too.

May God strengthen and bless them all at this time and bring Andrew home safely...

Youth Cafe @ Starbucks

2007-10-23T09:46:00.000+01:00

This Friday (26th Oct) sees the next of the Youth Cafe nights at Starbucks, Bromley South.

A place for young people aged 13-19 to gather for coffee chat and a chill out time. Open 18.30-20.30

Can you help?

2007-10-22T22:12:00.000+01:00

The church is opening its doors on Wednesday 28 November from 9.30am to 7.30pm for anyone who wants to pause and find stillness amongst the bustle of everyday life.

It's a global event and there's a dedicated website here.

There will be a sign up sheet available in the Welcome Area this coming Sunday if you are able to spare a couple of hours to help out by welcoming people and generally being around. Either that or let Simon know...

riding on the crest of a wave

2007-10-22T20:03:00.000+01:00

Buoyed up by the response to the previous posts, I'm feeling confident to ask you for help.

As some of you may know I'm doing a bit of theology study and at the moment I'm looking at mission and the church.

For the next section I have to carry out some research in my own church. I have to ask how you respond to the following questions:

What is the primary task of the church?
What is the relationship between worship and mission?
Does God only work through the church to advance his mission?
Should we witness to people of other faiths? What challenges does this present to the church?

Please don't feel you have to answer here but I'd love to hear from you if you have any responses to any or all of the above. You can email me or grab me for a chat. I'll understand if you want to totally avoid me but any help at all would be great. It's all confidential and there are no right or wrong answers, just your opinions.

Cheers...

thanks for the feedback

2007-10-22T07:06:00.000+01:00

Thanks to Lorna and Hazel for their wise and useful comments on the post about Halloween below.

It's great how these posts generate conversation. In church this week, I spoke to another mum who was concerned and suggested a party next year as an alternative. Also a home group had raised the issue and we'll probably continue the conversation in our family home group next time we meet.

The party could be along the lines of the family home group sessions where we bring food and play games on the church premises. It would certainly send out the message that Halloween's not something we celebrate (as well as getting away from the constantly ringing front door bell!)

I think it's a great idea so please keep them thoughts on this or anything else coming...

2007-10-17T12:15:00.000+01:00

I heard an interesting quote on Radio 2 Thought for the Day this morning, something we really could have a long hard look at. Apparently Abraham Lincoln is credited with saying, "I don't like that man, I must get to know him." Could be we could make a difference if we took this on board.

Missing Andrew

2007-10-16T17:20:00.000+01:00

This photograph is the last confirmed sighting of Andrew at Kings Cross. His family were on GMTV today to make a plea to anyone who might have seen him. You can read the full report here.

Andrew if you see this your Dad says "Please get in touch. We love you, we care about you desperately. Please let us know you are ok.''

Please continue to pray for Andrew and his family...

It's that time of year again...

2007-10-16T05:26:00.000+01:00

"Mummy, why can't I have the pink and black witch's outfit?", "Mummy, why can't I go trick or treating? All my mates do." "Mum, are there really evil spirits?"

Yes it's Halloween time again and the questions from my three young children seem to get tougher the older they get.

Actually it's been 'Halloween' since about mid-September in every shop you could imagine. The costumes that used to terrify my kids are now only a source of amusement and evoke "Mummy, I'm going to be a werewolf." (Notice how they subtly stop asking coz they know what I'll say!)

Come November 1st it'll all be over, replaced by Christmas stuff but that's another story and a whole new set of questions.

So how should I respond to their questions and unfortunately avoidance tactics no longer work. I know there's quite a bit out there on the web (be careful what you google) to help, like from the Evangelical Alliance but from a personal point of view I find this a really tricky one. Halloween, by the way, is my birthday and I spent many a happy birthday party eating frogs' legs sandwiches and drinking purple witches' brew and later on down the local pub which always put on a great bash. Interestingly I never went trick or treating - that's a more recent and growing phenomenon or perhaps I'm older than I think?!

Do I accept it as a bit of fun or do I take a long hard look around at our country which is slowly and almost imperceptibly descending further and further into spiritual darkness and do something about it with the light of Christ that I know makes a difference and if so what?

Love to hear your thoughts and experiences about Halloween whether you have little ones or not and especially how you would respond to the tough questions they pose.