October 2025

Stewards Scribblings

Now the evenings are drawing in, thoughts turn to indoor pursuits, cosy evenings in, curtains drawn against the dark sky, a good book to hand, purring cat on lap (essential!!), knitting needles rhythmically clicking, knitting gradually lengthening and shaping.

Perhaps you, like me, wear one of those oodies, an oversized plush smock-like garment, which has a kangaroo pocket with a lead in it which can be connected to a rechargeable battery which in turn operates several heat pads front and back. Soooooooooo very cosy and warm. Not very flattering, but definitely nice and warm.

The mention of knitting reminds me of two things; one is to look at Joan's beautiful knitting, featured elsewhere in this Messenger, and secondly, our Autumn Project, little knitted Christmas candles which will be distributed around the town in a similar way to last year's angels, which meant so much to their finders.

The candle pattern can be found in September's Messenger, or ask me for one. Each red, green or white little candle will have a tag telling the finder that Jesus is the Light of the World, and that it's come from us here at Christchurch.

Jesus said, " I am the light of the world.
Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness,
but will have the light of life.

John 8, verse 12

I hope you enjoy whatever you do during October, tidying the garden, going for a walk and kicking up the leaves, and gathering chestnuts.

God bless

Chris Cox, Senior Steward

Money & Property Matters – and Barry’s Babblings

As many readers will know, the work on the church roof has been completed and hopefully some of the wet problems have been resolved. The internal walls will now (hopefully) dry out and then we can redecorate and repair the damage to the ceiling above the organ. In addition, it is anticipated that the required electrical work can be put in hand in the near future.

When you read this magazine we will have celebrated the Harvest Festival and this is always a happy time. As well as the special service a 'Bring and share' lunch and auction was arranged.

During October there are several important meetings including the Pastoral Committee (14th) and the Church Council (22nd). The latter will have the opportunity to discuss an important paper written on behalf of the Connexion that will concentrate our minds on the best way ahead.

It has been a pleasure to welcome the new Superintendent Minister, Rev Ian Couchman and his wife, into the circuit. Some of us were able to attend the Calvert Methodist Church in Hastings when a special service was held and led by the new District Chairman. We look forward to supporting Rev Ian as he settles into the new Manse and area.

It is good that the Fun and Friendship Group, and the Christchurch Bible and Prayer group, continue and all are most welcome to come along. The dates are usually in the Weekly Diary and in this issue (thank you, Jill for preparing the weekly news sheet ).

I would remind readers of the two important events that we have in a few weeks' time: Saturday 15th November with Coffee morning from 10am followed at 11 by the Christian Voices' Presentation of 'Test of Faith'. Then on Thursday 11th December at 7.30pm the church there will be a concert with Stephen Page on the organ and the Crescendo Choir. Sunday 26th October is designated Bible Sunday and I am grateful that I have been invited to lead the worship when the 'Good Book' will be the centre of attention. It is said that the Bible is the most owned book in the world, but also the most neglected. Not sure if that is true but, if so, it is a very sad fact - and it could be read so much more.

To conclude I thought that I would try to make you smile! Signs seen outside of various churches:

'Hoot if you love Jesus, Text whilst driving if you want to meet him!".
Seven days without prayer makes one weak!'
Come work for the Lord--the work is hard, the hours are long and the pay is low - but the retirement benefits are out of this world!

We hope to see you again soon.

Every blessing and Christian love

Barry Turnwell, Church Treasurer and a Property Steward

Christchurch Messenger Website

You may know that much of the content of the Christchurch Messenger also ends up on this website but not all of it. So it is well worth your while to read the Messenger, but also to keep a watchful eye on the website, which is updated every month.

Over 17,500 visits (hits) are made to the website each year, around 48 each day. There are 18 web pages, and the most popular ones are the Home Page, News & Events, Diary, Contacts, Ninfield, and Christchurch Singers. There is also a link to the Winchelsea Chapel website.

If you have any comments or suggestions to make about the website, please let me know.

Peter Downes
Web Developer

Winchelsea Methodist Chapel News
www.winchelseachapel.org

This month the Chapel will celebrate the Harvest Festival on Saturday 11th at 10.30am for 11am. All are most welcome to come and worship in this historical building (correctly known as a 'Preaching House').

Saturday 1st November is All Saints Day and a special service has been planned for that day at 10.30am for 11am. We look forward to welcoming the Rev Carol Cockcroft - who happens to live right next door to our Chapel (together with her husband). Carol is also a Team Vicar at St Michael's Church in Bexhill.

Do try and join with us.

Barry Turnwell, Publicity Officer

Membership Secretary 01424 216456