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Prayer Thought is put together weekly by Julie Lomas and e-mailed to those people on a circulation list who wish to receive it. It also contains prayer requests for individulals which are not on this web site for confidentuality. Please contact Julie if you wish to be on the circulation list, (contact details are in the church address book) or the Church Office. More information about prayer at St Thomas' is available here. Hello everyone, Because of family commitments the next prayer e-mail will be in the new year. May you look on the Christ Child this Christmas and see Him return your gaze with His smile. Julie xx 20.12.07 and over Christmas and New Year Prayer Thought John 1 v 5: The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it. "Christ, as a light illumine and guide me. Christ, as a shield overshadow me. Christ under me; Christ over me; Christ beside me on my left and my right." (Taken from the Morning Prayer of the Northumbria Community) Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for: - Gareth and Kat's trip to Kosovo this past week. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know, not to inform God of their needs, but to be open to Him and a channel for His love into their situation. We remember especially: -Those who are suffering with their health and need to know how special they are to God. -Those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, and need to feel the arms of God wrapped tight around them, especially in the weeks leading up to Christmas. -Those who are caring for others, and struggling with the many responsibilities of family life - may they know God's presence with them even in their darkest moments of distress and anger. Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of: - the Christmas Winter Wonderland Ball - specifically for Gemma, that she may be well enough to lead the event; Tony, in charge of catering for 60 young people in the church "kitchen"; and for the young people to have FUN! -Those leading and preaching at all the Christmas services -please remember in your prayers Robin and Eileen Balch and Dawn Edinborough. Parish Focus Please pray for everyone attending a Christmas service - for ears to hear, an open heart and a willingness to be "found" by God. Mission Focus News from the Lapworth Family - Paul, Ruth, Simeon, Emma and Lucy - is to be found in their letter at the back of church. They ask for our prayers for: -Unpacking and settling into the new house. - A restful Christmas holiday. -Lucy's potty problems. -Wisdom in choosing study options for next term. -Open hearts and minds to receive what God has in store for us here. "This will be our first Christmas in the UK for 4 years and it's been a bit of a shock to realise what a busy and stressful time it has become (or is this just because we are in the process of moving house?!) May you know the peace of Jesus the Messiah this Christmas." 13.12.07 Prayer Thought God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help,to put the world right again. -John 3 v 17, (The Message) Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for: - Spotlight being delivered to every home in the parish. - The encouraging feedback from families who attended the Christmas Craft morning held on Saturday. - The support and encouragment that Gareth and Kat have received this last week. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know, not to inform God of their needs, but to be open to Him and a channel for His love into their situation. We remember especially: -Those who are suffering with their health and need to know how special they are to God. -Those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, and need to feel the arms of God wrapped tight around them, especially in the weeks leading up to Christmas. -Those who are caring for others, and struggling with the many responsibilities of family life - may they know God's presence with them even in their darkest moments of distress and anger. Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of: -The Christmas Ball Winter Wonderland event for the youth on 22nd December. Please pray for more tickets to be sold for a great atmosphere; for the catering arrangements; and for help on the night. - The people who will interview initial candidates for Rector - The Venerable David Garnett, Rev'd Andy Broom, Karen Riley, Bernard Blanksby and one from St Peter's to be decided. -Members of the PCC - this week please pray for Marion Malcolmson; Phillipa Buswell; Helen Nightingale (St Peter's representatives) -The many events planned for December including: Christingle service (16th); Rapture social for youth (18th) Carol singing at Chatsworth Lodge (19th) People at prayer (19th) Communion and Cuppa (20th) Winter Wonderland Ball (22nd) Carol singing at Morrisons (1.30 - 2.30pm); Carol service (23rd); Christmas Eve services (6pm and 11.30pm); Christmas Day service (10.30am). Please pray that in all our busyness we may be people focused, and not just diary / event focused. -Those leading and preaching at all the Christmas services - for inspiration; energy and love. -Everyone attending a Christmas service - for ears to hear, an open heart and a willingness to be "found" by God. Parish Focus One of the roles of the Parish Rector is to pray for the souls of the Parish, and that not only means the members of their Church, but also for everyone who resides within the parish boundary. In the absence of a Rector, perhaps we could spend some time with God each week for all the souls in our care. To help in this task you may like to use some or all of the following: -Church Family members - the Church Address book runs to just over 14 pages which means that over the course of a fortnight we could pray for everyone listed there by name. -Parish Family members - As we think of the residents of the Parish let's pray that they might begin to feel that they too belong to God, and to the Church Family. This week perhaps you would pray for the following streets and all who live in them (using the Spotlight delivery list which is why it might look a bit odd!): Friday - Brookside bar; Brookside Glen; Westbrook Drive; the Knoll; Westbrook Close and Oakfield Avenue Saturday - Somersall Park Road; Chatsworth Road; Haddon Close Sunday - Rhodesia Road; Green Glen; Greengate Close; West Lea; Westfield Gardens; Heaton Street Monday - Mayfield Road; St Thomas' Street; Westfield Avenue; Queen Mary Road; Linden Avenue; Thornfield Avenue Tuesday - Somersall Lane; Somersall Close; Somersall Hall Drive; Somersall Willows; Ashgate Avenue; Ashgate Road; Inkerman Cottages; Newlands Avenue Wednesday - Ashtree Close; Manor Road; Rockingham Close; Brookfield Ave; The Mount; Ryehill Ave; Stevensons Place; Old Hall Road; Victoria Street West Thursday - Old Road; Brampton Court flats; MacMillan Mews; Ardsley Road; Pine View World Mission Focus Operation Christmas Child Please pray for Gareth Simmonds and Kat Witham as they leave for Pristina in Kosovo on Saturday. They ask for our prayers for: -Their travel plans to and from Kosovo. -The children they encounter to know that they are loved. -The partners based at the churches in Pristina to be encouraged and to feel supported, especially Leonora Christian Solidarity Worldwide. We are asked to pray that more Christians in the UK would be aware of the struggles of the persecuted Church - if you have time please log onto www.csw.org to find out more for yourself. 07.12.07 Prayer Thought Overheard in Morrisons on Tuesday at 11.20am - "well, in three weeks time, the kids will have opened thier presents and it will all be over" For Christians, Christmas day is just the beginning ...can we share this thought with others during the week? Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for the positive meeting held on Tuesday with the Archdeacon and the encouraging way in which the process is unfolding. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know, not to inform God of their needs, but to be open to Him and a channel for His love into their situation. We remember especially: -those who are suffering with their health and need to know how special they are to God; -those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, and need to feel the arms of God wrapped tight around them; -those who are caring for others, and struggling with the many responsibilities of family life; may they know God's presence with them even in their darkest moments of distress and anger. Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of: - Gemma Machin and the work amongst the young people. Specifically she asks for our prayers for the planning and preparation of the Christmas Ball 'Winter Wonderland' event for the youth on 22nd December. It's the biggest and most professional thing we've attempted to far. Prices have gone up, so please pray for people to still want attend; - the people who will interview initial candidates for Rector - The Venerable David Garnett, Rev'd Andy Broom, Karen Riley, Bernard Blanksby and one from St Peter's to be decided; - members of the PCC - this week please pray for Karen Riley, Bernard Blanksby, Cat Witham and Josh Wheeler (CYFA reps); - the many events planned for December including: Christmas Craft Morning (8th); Youth service (9th); Totzone Pram service and party (10th); Children's Workers Social evening (10th); Kidzone party (11th); Christingle service (16th) Please pray that in all our busyness we may be people focused, and not just diary / event focused. - the delivery of Spotlight to the Parish - for the recipients that they might find it of interest and want to find out more; and for those of us involved in delivering it - for our prayer lives to be enhanced as we walk the streets. Parish Focus One of the roles of the Parish Rector is to pray for the souls of the Parish, and that not only means the members of their Church, but also for everyone who resides within the parish boundary. In the absence of a Rector, perhaps we could spend some time with God each week for all the souls in our care. To help in this task you may like to use some or all of the following: - Church Family members - the Church Address book runs to just over 14 pages which means that over the course of a fortnight we could pray for everyone listed there by name. This coming week why not give it a go! As we think of the residents of the Parish let's pray that they might begin to feel that they too belong to God, and to the Church Family. This week perhaps you would pray for the following streets and all who live in them (using the Spotlight delivery list which is why it might look a bit odd!): Friday - Netherleigh Road; Old Road; Slack Lane; South Lodge Court; Poplar Avenue; Chatsworth Road (Wash House Lane - Holymoorside turning); Saturday - Ashgate Road; Deerlands Road; Loxley Close; The Dell; Walton Road; Delves Close; Grove Cottages; Lindasfarne Court; Windsor Close; Sunday - Ashdown Drive; Salcey Square; Bramshill Rise; Kielder Court; Tnstall Green; Tunstall Way; Monday - Walton Crescent Inner; Walton Drive; Hillside Drive; Pickton Close; Upland Rise; Wolfe Close; Walgrove Road (odds); Tuesday - Walgrove Road (evens); Vincent Cresent; Westfield Close; Calton House; Storrs Road (nos 1 - 65 and 2 - 80); Wednesday - Storrs Road (67 - 83 and 82 - 106); Ash Vale; Westbourne Grove; Chatsworth Road (corner Quarry Lane - Terminus); Chatsworth Avenue; Upper Moor Street; Chatsworth Road (Old Road - Walton Road); Bobbin Mill Lane; Wlaton Fields Road; Thursday - Chatsworth Court; Wlebeck Court; Holly Court; Church View; Glenthorpe Close; Quarry Lane; Church Street West; Heaton Court; Meynell Close. World Mission Focus From Andy & Liz Goodacre who have brought our attention to a couple of important things going on in the world this week: The trial in Turkey has started for the those accused of killing three Christian workers earlier in the year. Christians are facing increasing pressure in Turkey right now - please pray for them, especially as public awareness of this situation is high at the moment. A North-Korean man, now offically a citizen of South Korea, faces trial on Monday in China after being caught assisting refugees fleeing from the regime in North-Korea. Mr Yoo became a Christian following his own escape from North-Korea and has since been involved in helping others who have made the same dangerous journey. From Johnnyand Ann McClean in Thailand As we head into the Christmas season we want to ask you to pray especially for the following events. Christmas Fun Camp 'THE GIFT' 7th-10th December. Over the weekend we expect to see around 75-100 students attend this annual camp. The past weeks have been full of preparations and we are now getting into the final days before we have the privilege of sharing the Christmas Story with Thai students for three days. Pray with us for stamina, joy and abounding energy over this weekend. Pray for the different staff leading the bible times each day (1½ hours each morning) and for Johnny giving the final talk on John 3:16 on Monday morning. Pray too that the Christian students are encouraged and built up in their faith as they see God provide for the practical and financial aspects of the camp. 'What's the Meaning of Christmas?' 12th December and 17th December. Ann will have two opportunities to present a one hour interactive programme on the meaning of Christmas. Firstly with the university students at INTERactive and then with the high school students who come to her English is Fun class each Monday. Pray for creativity and ability to communicate the true meaning of Christmas to these students who often think of Christmas as the foreigners New Year. 30.11.07 Prayer Thought "Conscious repentance leads to unconscious holiness" -Oswald Chambers Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for the reactions generated by Sunday afternoon's meeting about the Church building / development project. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know, not to inform God of their needs, but to be open to Him and a channel for His love into their situation. We remember especially those who are caring for their friends and family, coping with shock, and perhaps questioning where God is in all this. Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of: - Gemma Machin and the work amongst the young people. Specifically she asks for our prayers for the planning and preparation of the Christmas Ball Winter Wonderland event for the youth on 22nd December. It's the biggest and most professional thing we've attempted to far. Prices have gone up, so please pray for people to still want attend. - Karen Riley and Bernard Blanksby our Church Wardens and for Bishop Alistair - for energy, wisdom and discernment. - members of the PCC - this week please pray for Phil Johnson, John Goodacre and Barry Thompson. - the many events planned for December including : "Section 12" meeting between the Bishop and PCC (4th); 1st Thursday Rendezvous (5th); Christmas Craft Morning (8th); Youth service (9th); Totzone Pram service and party (10th); Children's Workers Social evening (10th); Kidzone party (11th); Christingle service (16th) Please pray that in all our busyness we may be people focused, and not just diary / event focused. Parish Focus One of the roles of the Parish Rector is to pray for the souls of the Parish, and that not only means the members of their Church, but also for everyone who resides within the parish boundary. In the absence of a Rector, perhaps we could spend some time with God each week for all the souls in our care. To help in this task you may like to use some or all of the following: - Church Family members - the Church Address book runs to just over 14 pages which means that over the course of a fortnight we could pray for everyone listed there by name. This coming week why not give it a go! - Parish Family members. Please pray each day for your neighbours and those in the roads round about you. World Mission Focus Andy & Liz Goodacre In their latest newsletter they invite us to thank God for their daughter, Olivia and for their new family life as well as his studies at St John's Nottingham. We are also invited to pray for Andy's current work in Marburg, Germany, and for guidance over future plans once he is ordained. 22.11.07 Prayer Thought The best way to remember people is in prayer. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit for all the saints. -Ephesians 6.18 Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for: - the time of quiet and spoken prayer held on Wednesday evening. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know, not to inform God of their needs, but to be open to Him and a channel for His love into their situation. Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of: - the Church Development Project, and the meeting at 4pm this Sunday, 25th November. - for Karen Riley and Bernard Blanksby our Church Wardens and for Bishop Alistair - for energy, wisdom and discernment. - members of the PCC - this week please pray for Mark Hoare, Gaynor Roberts and Nanette Sanderson. Parish Focus One of the roles of the Parish Rector is to pray for the souls of the Parish, and that not only means the members of their Church, but also for everyone who resides within the parish boundary. In the absence of a Rector, perhaps we could spend some time with God each week for all the souls in our care. To help in this task you may like to use some or all of the following: - Church Family members - the Church Address book runs to just over 14 pages which means that over the course of a fortnight we could pray for everyone listed there by name. This coming week why not give it a go! - Parish Family members. Please pray each day for your neighbours and those in the roads round about you. World Mission Focus Andy & Liz Goodacre In their latest newsletter they invite us to thank God for their daughter, Olivia and for their new family life as well as his studies at St John's Nottingham. We are also invited to pray for Andy's current work in Marburg, Germany, and for guidance over future plans once he is ordained. SAMS, Paul & Sarah Tester We thank God for · Good health. · Our residents visas. · Our flat feeling more comfortable and us feeling at home in Surco. · The children at Ventanilla. Please pray for: · Discernment as to which Church to make our home Church. · Us to hear Gods call clearly as to which projects / groups to get fully involved in and to get started on them properly. · Bishop Williams health. · The Youth Leaders weekend 16th-18th November. · The planning of the childrens Christmas party in Ica and the event itself on 15th December. OMF, Johnny and Ann McClean As we look at the many important events planned for this month it is easy for us both to feel overwhelmed. Please pray with us that we will also have times of stillness and refreshment from the Lord and that we will constantly draw our strength from him alone. Pray too that we will remain people focused rather than diary or event focused in our ministry day-to-day. Thank you for standing with us and praying for us in these next weeks. With our love Johnny, Ann, Matthew, Bethan and Joshua. 16.11.07 Prayer Thought "Have a Mary heart in a Martha world: Find intimacy with God in the busyness of life" -Joanna Weaver Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know, not to inform God of their needs, but to be open to Him and a channel for His love into their situation. We remember especially: - David and Lisa Mouncer, Ben, Elizabeth, Joshua and Samuel - please ask God for special healing for David, and for progress in the purchase of their new home. - Dawn Edinborough - for time for her to plan the job for the rest of this year, and into 2008. - those who are suffering with their health and need to know how special they are to God. - those who are caring for their friends and family, coping with shock, and perhaps questioning where God is in all this. Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of: - the People @ Prayer meeting on Wednesday 21st - whatever the obstacles that will surely come our way to prevent us from attending this, may God clear the way for us to join together to pray for the Vacancy and the new Rector. - for Karen Riley and Bernard Blanksby our Church Wardens and for Bishop Alistair - for energy, wisdom and discernment. - members of the PCC - this week please pray for Pam Brimelow, Eileen Balch and Paul Benson. - the Church Development Project, and the plans being made for the Church meeting on 25th November Parish Focus One of the roles of the Parish Rector is to pray for the souls of the Parish, and that not only means the members of their Church, but also for everyone who resides within the parish boundary. In the absence of a Rector, perhaps we could spend some time with God each week for all the souls in our care. To help in this task you may like to use some or all of the following: - Church Family members - the Church Address book runs to just over 14 pages which means that over the course of a fortnight we could pray for everyone listed there by name. This coming week why not give it a go! - Parish Family members. Please pray each day for your neighbours and those in the roads round about you. World Mission Focus Operation Christmas Child please pray for the Chesterfield team as they receive the shoe boxes that are going to go around the world as a token of our love and of God's love, remembering Jane Simmonds at this busy time. Please also pray for Simon Barrington, executive director, who is coming to speak at St Thomas' this Sunday. OMF, Johnny and Ann McClean As we look at the many important events planned for this month it is easy for us both to feel overwhelmed. Please pray with us that we will also have times of stillness and refreshment from the Lord and that we will constantly draw our strength from him alone. Pray too that we will remain people focused rather than diary or event focused in our ministry day-to-day. Thank you for standing with us and praying for us in these next weeks. With our love Johnny, Ann, Matthew, Bethan and Joshua. SAMS, Paul & Sarah Tester We thank God for · Good health. · Our residents visas. · Our flat feeling more comfortable and us feeling at home in Surco. · The children at Ventanilla. Please pray for: · Discernment as to which Church to make our home Church. · Us to hear Gods call clearly as to which projects / groups to get fully involved in and to get started on them properly. · Bishop Williams health. · The Youth Leaders weekend 16th-18th November. · The planning of the childrens Christmas party in Ica and the event itself on 15th December. 10.11.07 Prayer Thought "The wish to pray is a prayer in itself" -Georges Bernanos Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for: - the farewell service for David last Sunday. - the work amongst children and young people on a Tuesday night led by Dawn and Gemma. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know, not to inform God of their needs, but to be open to Him and a channel for His love into their situation. We remember especially: - David and Lisa Mouncer, Ben, Elizabeth, Joshua and Samuel - please ask God for special healing for David, and for progress in the purchase of their new home. - Dawn Edinborough - pleae pray for the job, for her daughter, and for herself. Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of: - all involved in leading worship and the acts of Remembrance in our Churches this coming Sunday. - Karen Riley and Bernard Blanksby our Church Wardens. - members of the PCC - this week please pray for Sue Ward, Chris Witham and Emma Atkinson. - Please also pray for the PCC meeting to be held on Monday evening. - Bishop Alistair - for wisdom and discernment of the right person to be Rector of the parish. - the Church Development Project, and the plans being made for the Church meeting on 25th November. World Mission Focus Operation Christmas Child: - please pray for the Chesterfield team as they receieve the shoe boxes that are going to go around the world as a token of our love and of God's love, remembering Jane Simmonds at this busy time. Please also pray for Simon Barrington, executive director, who is coming to speak at St Thomas' a week on Sunday. Christian Solidarity Worldwide: - please pray for the Christians in Pakistan, and in particular for the Lawyers and Judges under arrest following this week's crack down. 03.11.07 David's Prayer Thought O Lord, do not forsake me, be not far from me, O God. -Psalm 38 People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know, not to inform God of their needs, but to be open to Him and a channel for His love into their situation. We remember especially: - David and Lisa Mouncer, Ben Elizabeth, Joshua and Samuel. - the families of the fire fighters who died in the blaze in Warwickshire. - our brothers and sisters in the persecuted church throughout the world. (www.csw.org.uk) Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of: - Karen Riley and Bernard Blanksby our Church Wardens. - members of the PCC - perhaps you could find out the names of two or three members of the PCC from the picture board in Church, and commit to pray for them over the coming weeks and months as they lead the congregation during the vacancy. - Bishop Alistair Over the next four weeks there you are invited to also lift before God our Childrens' and Families Worker - Dawn Edinborough. This week please pray for: Settling in - time and space for prayer and reflection amongst all the "busyness". Current Work - new volunteers to come forward in all areas of work. Future vision - that many lives will be touched and changed through the childrens' and families work. Mission Focus Urgent prayer requests from the Novi Most team in Mostar. Novi Most workers Kate Wilson and Karin Antoni have started schooling poor Roma children in Bisce Polje, Mostar. Not all children can now attend school because of some fights between the Roma families. School has had to be relocated to a small, dark, dirty barrack with no windows and it looks like it will be leaky when the rain comes. Also half of the children now aren't being allowed to come because of a false rumour that one girl has a contagious skin disease. Along with school, Kate and Karin are running a Sunday School where they are teaching the children about God. Since the weather has changed for the worse it is very difficult to continue to carry on the Sunday School work. Kate and Karin strongly feel that it needs to be held in the open so that no rumours can start about what they are teaching the children behind closed doors. Please pray that God will provide a neutral place where they can hold school and will give wisdom in going forward with what they have started. Please also pray for the Centre Novi Most which has started in the neighbouring town of Caplinjia, those who are leading it, and those who are attending and their families. 26.10.07 No official prayer thought this week, but do pray for David Mouncer and family during their last week with us in the Parish. 19.10.07 David's Prayer Thought I will fear no evil, for you are with me, your rod and your staff they comfort me. -Psalm 23 FEAR = Fantasies Envisioned As Reality. Today in our prayers, instead of thinking the worst, try to give thanks for the best. Do this because of his love not your own strength. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know including: - David and Lisa Mouncer, Ben Elizabeth, Joshua and Samuel as they prepare to move. - Jane Simmonds as she organises the Shoe Box Appeal. - The young people of our church and their leaders who are away this weekend. Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of: - Karen Riley and Bernard Blanksby our Church Wardens - all involved in this week's memorial service at 6.30pm on Sunday, and for those attending who are in mourning - those helping to run and lead the Furnace event on Friday 26th Over the next four weeks there you are invited to also lift before God our Children's and Families' Worker -Dawn Edinborough This week please pray for: Settling in - The time to do all that needs to be done in this transitional stage, from domestic tasks, through to preparation and planning for church events and activities. Current Work - That there will be new opportunities for reaching out to families, and that this area of the role will develop and for new volunteers to come forward in all areas. Future vision - For the raising up of new leaders and training possibilities for all who want or need it. Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people - take time today to thank Him for answered prayer in your own life: - Steve Willis, baptised last Sunday. - Families bringing children for baptism over the next two weeks. Mission Focus Please pray for Gill Rowell, the UK based Director of Novi Most, who is making a special visit to Bosnia this coming week, 22-27 October.Gill will be leading a day long prayer and strategy presentation to the Mostar and Capljina teams. Then Gill and Claire Gingell, a senior long term worker in Mostar,will visit Christian leaders across Bosnia Herzegovina to personally share where God has led Novi Most as an organisation, to listen to what they have to say and to seek Gods guidance as they begin to establish a Bosnian Board, appoint a Bosnian Director and set up a Bosnian-led organisation. Gill writes, sometimes I am overwhelmed by the task at handbut God has been faithful so far and He will be in the future. OMF, Johnnie and Ann McClean write concerning: Oct 21-26 Student Ministry Staff Training on Evangelism @ LIFE Centre, Nakhon Sawan. We will be leading the Central Thailand team in a week of training, practice and planning on the theme of evangelism. We will also be joined by several TCS national staff for the first time. Pray that the teaching will be of a high quality, that we will communicate well in Thai and that this week will help us all as a team to be re-enthused and equipped for ministry in the coming term. Through all these comings and goings please pray for the children that they will be able to handle the change in routine and respond positively to the different situations and people they interact with. The students start back at school on Oct 29. Thank you for continuing to partner with us Johnny, Ann, Matthew, Bethan and Joshua 12.10.07 David's Prayer Thought Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you. -Psalm 55 To cast means to throw, it means to leave them where they have been thrown. So often we pray to God bringing him our cares then as soon as we have finished praying we take them back. Today let us present and leave in his nail-scarred hands our cares and our burdens. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know including -David, Lisa, Ben, ELizabeth, Joshua and Samuel Mouncer as they prepare to move to new Church Life Please pray for this Sunday's meeting about the Development Project - please pray for those who are preparing to speak from the front, and for those of us who are going to be listening, that God's way will become clear to all of us. We continue to come into God's presence on behalf of - the Wardens, Karen Riley and Bernard Blanksby - the PCC - think of one member of the PCC that you know - pray for them this week Over the next few weeks there you are invited to also lift before God our Childrens' and Families Worker - Dawn Edinborough. This week please pray in particular for: -Settling in - Holly's continued healing and for her tutoring to be put into place for her as soon as possible. -Current Work - that those she meets and works with will be accepting of a new person with different ways of doing things. -Future vision - for discernment and wisdom in all areas. Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people - take time today to thank Him for answered prayer in your own life. Mission Focus Samaitan's Purse - Please pray for Jane Simmonds, who leads up the work for this organisation in the Midlands, as the busiest time of the year comes round once again with the annual Shoebox Appeal. Jane has asked us to pray for her and in particular: "Please pray for me; my stamina and my sanity! Due to the amazing volunteer growth in my region I am finding the demand of so many new people increasingly difficult and at the moment feel terribly inadequate and unable to support and serve all those who need me as I would like. This has a detrimental effect on the family, and I am sure that is not Gods desire. Please pray for the right regional volunteer support to come forward and for the agreement of similar permanent support in the near future." OMF Johnnie and Ann McClean write concerning: Oct 5-15 Holiday in Prajuab. Please Pray for refreshment and quality family time as we relax and unwind together for 10 days. Oct 16-20 OMF Home School Week in Bangkok. This week our kids will get to play and learn with other OMF kids who are Home Schooled. We will have some responsibility for teaching the younger children, will also have our OMF medicals and will be preparing for Student Ministry Training Week to follow. Pray that the kids will have a happy and relaxed time with their friends and that we will be able to complete final preparation for the following week. 05.10.07 David's Prayer Thought God is our refuge and strength...-Psalm 46 Who is our strength and refuge in times of trouble? Ourselves? When we look to God there is a consequence. Look at verse 2. Commit your ways and the future of St Thomas' to God. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know including -David, Lisa, Ben, ELizabeth, Joshua and Samuel Mouncer as they prepare to move to new Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of: - the Wardens, PCC and Church Leadership Team as they prepare to lead us through the next few months - Bishop Alistair, the Archdeacon and Rural Dean who will help guide and support us - Anne and Heather in the Church Office as they carry out their duties Over the next four weeks there you are invited to also lift before God our Childrens' and Families Worker - Dawn Edinborough This week please pray for her and Holly as they relax on holiday and in particular for: Settling in - The continued support, co-operation and patience from collegues and church members, as she get to grips with a new job, location and community. Current Work - that she is able to continue building on established relationships and find new opportunities fpr development and growth. Future vision - that there will be an openness to new ideas and a renewal of vision. Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for: - Maureen Rolfe's excellent recovery from surgery, and the news that she is now home for her period of convalesance. - Robin Dawson's wonderful news that he and Val will be married in January. Mission Focus Please continue to pray for the people of Burma - Christian Solidarity Worldwide urges us to pray & these words may be of help: Lord, we lift up all the troubles occuring around the world and place them firmly in your hands, knowing that you are in control of all these situations. We ask that where innocent people are suffering You would work to ensure that justice prevails. Amen. OMF Johnnie and Ann McClean write concerning: Oct 5-15 Holiday in Prajuab; please Pray for refreshment and quality family time as we relax and unwind together for 10 days. Meditation for the Week Suddenly my Lord was speaking: "My Name is I AM". He paused. I waited. He continued, "When you live in the past with its mistakes and regrets, it is hard. I am not there. My name is not I WAS. When you live in the future, with its problems and fears, it is hard. I am not there. My name is not I WILL BE. When you live in this moment, it is not hard. I am here. My name is I AM" Helen Mallicoat 28.09.07 David's Prayer Thought Earth gapes, hell burns, fiends roar, saints pray -Shakespeare, Richard III O Lord, my God, I take refuge in you. -Psalm 7 People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know who are ill or struggling. Church Life We come into God's presence on behalf of the PCC and church leadership team as they meet on Saturday for their annual review and planning day, and as they plan for the forthcoming vacancy in the Parish. Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for: - answers to prayer for our mission partners, Andy and Liz Goodacre who praise God that Olivia's passport has arrived; they have accommodation for their 6 weeks in Nottingham; they now have a vehicle and will be driving over from Germany. Mission Focus Please pray for the people of Burma - Christian Solidarity Worldwide urges us to pray a these words may be of help: Lord, we lift up all the troubles occuring around the world and place them firmly in your hands, knowing that you are in control of all these situations. We ask that where innocent people are suffering You would work to ensure that justice prevails. Amen. OMF Johnnie and Ann McClean write concerning October 1-5 OMF Leadership Training in Bangkok. Pray for a teachable and discerning spirit as we consider different issues of leadership with other new leaders from within the wider OMF fellowship in Thailand. This week will be led by OMF staff from IHQ in Singapore Andy, Liz and Olivia Goodacre -Please continue to pray for them for: -a safe journey. - they leave Marburg early this morning (Friday), cross the channel early Saturday morning and then drive up to Nottingham. -that they will all settle quickly into life in Nottingham, particularly Liz and Olivia when Andy is in college. - for the first two weeks they are living with a family then move to another house, which is waiting to be sold, for the last 4 weeks. -Andy will adjust quickly into studying again as he starts his next block at St. John's on Monday, 1st October. 21.09.07 David's Prayer Thought Who one believes God to be is most accurately revealed not in any credo, but in the way one speaks to God when no one is listening. -Nancy Mairs For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer. -1 Peter 3 People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know and also for: -all mums and dads of very young children known to us - for strength and energy! Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: -Dawn Edinborough as she picks up the pace at work as Children's and Families Worker in the Parish, and her "commissioning" to the work on Sunday 23rd September Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for: - a lovely time last weekend when Sam Wheeler and Eleanor Lomas were baptised / confirmed - answers to prayer for our mission partners, Paul and Sarah - they write: Dear Praying Friends, We just wanted to drop you a line to let you know that we have arrived safely in Peru and to thank you for your prayers. In the last eight days we have had a lovely Commissioning Service, good final farewells with family and friends, a relaxing few days in Miami and an amazingly stress free journey to Peru. We are starting our search for a place to live. We have felt so peaceful over the past few days so thank you so much for your prayers! Lots of love, Paul and Sarah Mission Focus OMF Johnnie and Ann McClean write: Sept 24-28 TCS Staff Days in Bangkok. Please pray for wise tongues and gracious hearts as we move to a place of big brother and sister in the national staff team. Peung and Off will also be attending with us. Please pray for a good weekend off in Bangkok between these intensive meeting and the OMF Leadership Training which follows! Andy, Liz and Olivia Goodacre: Please continue to pray for them as they prepare to come to Nottingham for Andy's next block of study (six weeks at St John's College), and in particular for: All necessary documentation to get a British passport for Olivia by the end of September. Accommodation for the three of them needs to be sorted. Possible need for a car whilst in the UK. 13.09.07 David's Prayer Thought Only he who is helpless can truly pray. Ole Hallesby The Lord upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. -Psalm 145 People Please pray for Bryn and Maureen Garland as they prepare to move to Norfolk with Bryn's job Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: - Sam Wheeler and Eleanor Lomas as they prepare to be confirmed on Sunday 16th September - Dawn Edinborough as she starts her work as Children's and Families Worker in the Parish, and her "commissioning" to the work on Sunday 23rd September - David Mouncer our Rector Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for: - a new home for Pauline and Bill Woodend in Spain, and improvements in Bill's health Mission Focus Christian Solidarity Worldwide CSW ask for our prayers for Younis Masih, a Pakistani Christian who was recently sentenced to death for blasphemy. Please ask God to protect Younis from death threats from Muslim extremists and to give wisdom and guidance to CSW's partner, LADS as they work on his case. South American Missionary Society (SAMS) Paul and Sarah Tester as they fly to Peru today, Thursday 13th September at 9.40a.m. Please pray for a safe journey to Miami on 13th September and on to Peru on 16th September; and for patience and wisdom as we begin to adjust to life in Lima, look for accommodation and discern our roles within the diocese. Andy, Liz and Olivia Goodacre Please continue to pray for them as they prepare to come to Nottingham for Andy's next block of study (six weeks at St John's College), and in particular for: All necessary documentation to get a British passport for Olivia by the end of September. Accommodation for the three of them needs to be sorted. Possible need for a car whilst in the UK. 12.09.07 David's Prayer Thought Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you. -Psalm 55 To cast means to throw, it means to leave them where they have been thrown. So often we pray to God bringing him our cares then as soon as we have finished praying we take them back. Today let us present and leave in his nail-scarred hands our cares and our burdens. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know and - David, Lisa, Ben, ELizabeth, Joshua and Samuel Mouncer as they prepare to move to new pastures 5.09.07 David's Prayer Thought The prayer preceeding all prayers is May it be the real I who speaks. May it be the real Thou that I speak to. C.S. Lewis Whom I have in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire beside you. -Psalm 73 People Pleae pray for Bryn and Maureen Garland as they prepare to move to Norfolk with Bryn's job Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: - Sam Wheeler and Eleanor Lomas as they prepare to be confirmed on Sunday 16th September - Dawn Edinborough as she starts her work as Children's and Families Worker in the Parish, and her "commissioning" to the work on Sunday 23rd September - Gemma and all involved with the youth work in our church as Rapture, Pathfinders and CYFA restarts - our Readers, Mission & Ministry Team leaders, PCC members - David Mouncer our Rector Give Thanks God continues to answer the prayers of His people. Please thank Him for: - the safe arrival of Zoe Lily Frost, daughter for David and Betty, and sister to Dillon, Lucas and Alex - the safe arrival of Olivia Jayne Goodacre, daughter for Andy and Liz, and grand-daughter for John and Barbara - the arrival of Dawn Edinborough, and her daughter, Holly, and especially a place for them to live - the Summer Rendezvous event - the miraculous recovery of Julie Barton's friend, Angela - the testimonies and expriences of God shared at the Furnace event in August Mission Focus South American Missionary Society (SAMS) Paul and Sarah Tester write: We will be commissioned as SAMS Mission Partners on 9th September during the 11am service at our home church, Holy Trinity, Aylesbury. We will then be flying to Peru on Thursday 13th September at 9.40a.m. As we would have to change flights in Miami anyway, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to spend three days there visiting our friend Gareth, another Aylesbury Park Street emigrant. Having hopefully recovered from jet lag, and adjusted to the Peruvian time zone, we fly on to Lima on the Sunday arriving at 9.15p.m. (peruvian time). We have kindly been invited to stay with the Dean of the Cathedral and his wife, John and Susan Park, until we find our own place to live. We hope to find a flat to rent fairly quickly somewhere central to the city and then move into a more permanent home in a community when we have settled into a church and our jobs, and are clearer about where we should be. Please pray for: Emotional strength for our families (particularly our parents and sisters) and for us as we say our goodbyes A safe journey to Miami on 13th September and on to Peru on 16th September For patience and wisdom as we begin to adjust to life in Lima, look for accommodation and discern our roles within the diocese. Andy, Liz and Olivia Goodacre: Please continue to pray for them as they prepare to come to Nottingham for Andy's next block of study (six weeks at St John's College), and in particular for: All necessary documentation to get a British passport for Olivia by the end of September Accommodation for the three of them needs to be sorted Possible need for a car whilst in the UK. August David's Prayer Thought Genesis 2 verse 2 "By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing, so on the seventh day he rested from all his work." Holiday time - pray that we all will rest, gain strength and grow in grace. Upholding our Pastor in Prayer Please pray for David, Lisa and the children as they enjoy a well earned family holiday together. Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: - the team leading the Summer Rendezvous in August - the services at St Thomas' and St Peter's over the coming few weeks - as we join together each Sunday to worship, our numbers may be reduced, but our God is as great as ever - Psalm 150 People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know and also for Dawn Edingborough and her daughter, Holly, as they prepare to move to Chesterfield, so that Dawn can take up the post of Childrens' and Families' worker in September - and in particular, that they will find a house to rent in the Parish. Give Thanks - all 150+ children who attended jungle jamborree - and for the leaders and helpers who delivered the action! -for holidays! -for God's word - please continue to pray and meditate on the passage from 2 Chronicles ch 7v 12-16 Mission Focus over the next 2 months please continue to pray for: -the Lapworths for a good transition to life back in the UK; study at All Nations Christian College for Paul and Ruth and new schools for Simeon and Emma and nursery for Lucy in September -for Robin Dawson coming home on 28th July and his readjusting to life in the UK and plans for the future -Paul and Sarah Tester in their final preparations in July and August before they leave for Peru -Klub Novi Most Summer Outreach in Mostar 6th July - 2nd September; Church and Klub camps, volunteer teams from the UK working with the long term team -over 100 Scripture Union Holidays and Missions taking place throughout July and August in the UK and overseas, run by SU staff and many, many volunteers -the safe arrival of Andy and Liz Goodacre's baby at the beginning of August and their practical needs for Andy's next 6 weeks of study at St. John's in the Autumn ie. accomodation in Nottingham and a car during October/November Please continue to look on the World Mission Board in church for more information and up to date news. 19.07.07 David's Prayer Thought John 1 verse 12 "... to those who believe in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or of a husband's will, but born of God." 'Children of God' - as we pray for the holiday club next week - let's pray that children will become the children of God! Upholding our Pastor in Prayer This week, please pray David will continue to regain his strength. Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: Jungle Jamboree taking place next week for 145+ children aged 5 - 11 - please pray for: -Julie Brown, event leader -all the volunteers - for good health so they can see through the 3 days, and receive God's blessing in so doing -all the activities - craft, games etc - for safety and fun -the many teenagers and young people who are involved - praise God for their energy, enthusiasm and for being prepared to serve in this way And please pray for the team leading the Summer Rendezvous in August People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know and also for: - for Dawn Edingborough and her daughter, Holly, as they prepare to move to Chesterfield, so that Dawn can take up the post of Childrens' and Families' worker in September - for those getting married on the next two Saturdays Give Thanks -for holidays! -for God's word - please continue to pray and meditate on the passage from 2 Chronicles ch 7v 12-16 Mission Focus over the next 2 months please continue to pray for: -the Lapworths for a good transition to life back in the UK; study at All Nations Christian College for Paul and Ruth and new schools for Simeon and Emma and nursery for Lucy in September -for Robin Dawson in his final weeks in Afghanistan, planning to return on 28th July and his readjusting to life in the UK and plans for the future -Paul and Sarah Tester in their final preparations in July and August before they leave for Peru -Klub Novi Most Summer Outreach in Mostar 6th July - 2nd September; Church and Klub camps, volunteer teams from the UK working with the long term team -over 100 Scripture Union Holidays and Missions taking place throughout July and August in the UK and overseas, run by SU staff and many, many volunteers -the safe arrival of Andy and Liz Goodacre's baby at the beginning of August and their practical needs for Andy's next 6 weeks of study at St. John's in the Autumn ie. accomodation in Nottingham and a car during October/November Please continue to look on the World Mission Board in church for more information and up to date news. 12.07.07 In the week ahead, please read 2 Chronicles 7:13 - 16. These verses have been brought to us as a Church by two people independently of one another. The leaders of our Church invite us all to read this passage, chew it over, wait, and pray - so that the words of this passage become the focus of our collective thoughts and prayers, and that through us all opening ourselves to the same passage from the word of God at the same time we might know the will of God for us collectively and as individuals. Upholding our Pastor in Prayer This week, please pray David will take time to nurture the garden of his soul during his enforced rest. Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: - The Parish Centre building project and our ability to take the plans forward in a way that is pleasing to God. - Totzone, Please pray for the Pram Service on 16th July. - Jungle Jamboree for children aged 5 - 11 taking place the week after next. Julie Brown asks us to pray for the many volunteers and for the 100+ children who have booked a place. Please also pray for Julie and the leaders that last minute planning and activity might fall into place - and these three days of outreach may bring glory to God. - the planning for Summer Rendezvous in August Give Thanks - For the appointment of Dawn Edingborough as our Childrens' and families worker - please pray for her move to Chesterfield over the summer. Mission Focus -Ann and Johnnie McClean in Thailand have been in touch and ask us to pray urgently for a site to become available for an evangelistic camp planned for 3 - 5th August and for 1,500 free Bibles that can be distributed to students in central Thailand. -The Lapworths ( who left Nairobi yesterday) for a good transition to life back in the UK; study at All Nations Christian College for Paul and Ruth and new schools for Simeon and Emma and nursery for Lucy in September. -Robin Dawson in his final weeks in Afghanistan, planning to return on 28th July and his readjusting to life in the UK and plans for the future. -Paul and Sarah Tester in their final preparations in July and August before they leave for Peru. -Klub Novi Most Summer Outreach in Mostar 6th July - 2nd September; Church and Klub camps, volunteer teams from the UK working with the long term team. -Over 100 Scripture Union Holidays and Missions taking place throughout July and August in the UK and overseas, run by SU staff and many, many volunteers. -The safe arrival of Andy and Liz Goodacre's baby at the beginning of August and their practical needs for Andy's next 6 weeks of study at St. John's in the Autumn ie. accomodation in Nottingham and a car during October/November. Please continue to look on the World Mission Board in church for more information and up to date news. 5.07.07 God grant us: the serenity to accept the things we cannot change, courage to change the things we can, and wisdom to know the difference. Amen Let us praise God for some wonderful answers to prayer this week including: The sudden and dramatoc release of Alan Johnston in Gaza. The "co-incidences" that prevented major bloodshed by terrorists last weekend. Upholding our Pastor in Prayer This week, please pray that David will be concerned for the lost. Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: - the appointment of the Childrens' and Families' Worker. As an offer has been made, please pray for the successful candidate as they consider whether to accept, and for the arrangements that will bring them to our Parish. - the Parish Centre building project and our ability to take the plans forward in a way that is pleasing to God, especially the PCC meeting to be held on Monday 9th. - Totzone - Praise God for all the encouragement the leaders continue to receive from the mums and grandmas who bring the children every week. Please pray for new mums and children who have joined recently, for the short bible story time which takes place each week and for the Pram Service on 16th July. - the planning for Jungle Jamboree for children aged 5 - 11 in July, and Summer Rendezvous in August. Give Thanks -for the witness and testimony to our Creator God at last week's Furnance. - for the Church meeting held on Sunday to consider the options for the Parish centre project. - for holidays! Mission Focus Ann and Johnnie McClean in Thailand have been in touch and ask us to pray urgently for: 1. A camp site for our evangelistic camp on August 3-5 We have just spent more than 5 hours driving around the local provinces looking at various sites (with kids in tow!). None were suitable. Then we decided to go and book the camp site we used last Christmas only to discover that they have dug up the road 3km from the resort and there is no access to the resort for buses or larger vehicles in the foreseeable future. We dont have any options left and we have four/five weeks to find somewhere suitable for 100 people! 2. Bibles International Bible Society has confirmed today that they have no bibles available either to give away or for sale (they are republishing Thai bibles and have run down all their stock!) What next? What does the Lord what us to do? A different Christian charity may possibly have some available and IBS are following that up for us. We should hear on Monday if there is a possibility of some bibles from this second source. We long for 1,500 free bibles to be able to distribute to the students of Central Thailand. Please pray hard for the Lords guidance, peace and wisdom in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. With our love. Johnny and Ann (on behalf of the Central Thailand Student Ministry Team) World Mission Summer Focus -The Lapworths leaving Nairobi this coming Wednesday,11th July; for a good transition to life back in the UK; study at All Nations Christian College for Paul and Ruth and new schools for Simeon and Emma and nursery for Lucy in September. -For Robin Dawson in his final weeks in Afghanistan, planning to return on 28th July and his readjusting to life in the UK and plans for the future. -Paul and Sarah Tester in their final preparations in July and August before they leave for Peru. -Klub Novi Most Summer Outreach in Mostar 6th July - 2nd September; Church and Klub camps, volunteer teams from the UK working with the long term team . -Over 100 Scripture Union Holidays and Missions taking place throughout July and August in the UK and overseas, run by SU staff and many, many volunteers. -The safe arrival of Andy and Liz Goodacre's baby at the beginning of August and their practical needs for Andy's next 6 weeks of study at St. John's in the Autumn ie. accomodation in Nottingham and a car during October/November. Please continue to look on the World Mission Board in church for more information and up to date news. 28.06.07 God of truth help us to keep your law of love and walk in the ways of wisdom that we may find true life in Jesus Christ your Son, Amen Upholding our Pastor in Prayer This week, please pray that David's ministry will be Christ-centred. Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: - the appointment of the Childrens' and Families' Worker. Pray for the candidates who have been seen, and for the one person yet to be interviewed, and for those involved in the selection of the right person to the post. May God's will be known, and acted upon. - the Parish Centre building project and our ability to take the plans forward in a way that is pleasing to God, especially the meeting being arranged for Sunday 1st July. - Totzone - Praise God for all the encouragement the leaders continue to receive from the mums and grandmas who bring the children every week. Please pray for new mums and children who have joined recently, for the short bible story time which takes place each week and for the Pram Service on 16th July. - everyone involved in Furnace on 29th June. - the planning for Jungle Jamboree for children aged 5 - 11 in July, and Summer Rendezvous in August. Give Thanks - for the dry weather on Saturday which enhanced the fun had at the summer fayre! - for Totzone, and the prayers for this work amongst families with young children. - for the answers to prayer that we can see, and for those that we cannot yet see. Mission Focus Please remember 4 of our world mission partners in your prayers this week - (maybe a different partner every other day?) Paul and Sarah Tester are being supported by us as they go to Peru in September. A copy of their prayer letter is pinned at the back of church, (e-mail Peter Rolfe if you would like to regularly get a copy sent to you). Praise God for: - The excellent preparation we have received and for the experience of being part of Redcliffe College. - The chance to slow down and take time to get organised over the summer. Please pray for: - Finances. That our review at the end of June would be positive and that our departure date can then be confirmed. - Preparations for Peru including: a successful visa application (currently pending), the opportunity to brush up on our Spanish, immunisations, U.K. paperwork e.g. wills, pensions etc. and much, much more! - Visits to supporting churches (St John the Evangelist, Welling: 22nd July, All Saints, Hunmanby: 29th July, St Andrews High Wycombe: 19th August). - For quality time with family and friends over the summer and for good goodbyes and a sense of settledness (as ever!), during our nomadic lifestyle over the summer months. -Paul and Ruth Lapworth and family as they pack up all their belongings and prepare to leave Nairobi on 11th July. Pray they will settle back quickly into life in the UK and all the finanacial support they need to see them through their two years of study at All Nations Christian College will be raised. -Novi Most's Summer Outreach Progamme starting 6th July with Children's Church camp; for final preparations for special Klub activity weeks in Mostar; for Novi Most camps throughout the summer; for teams of UK volunteers sharing in this outreach. (Please take copies of the new Prayer Diary and newsletter giving specific information and details for prayer. They are by the World Mission board at the back of church.) -Scripture Union Summer Outreach Summer is a very important and busy time for Scripture Union - community outreach events, missions, residential holidays and short-term mission opportunities. Focus for this week: SU ask us to pray for - Tens of thousands of young people whose lives will be impacted by the gospel in the coming weeks through the ministry of local church teams and Scripture Union volunteers and staff. - Older teenagers helping out and being trained as young leaders with the Junior Team training scheme. preparation and prayer by all holiday and mission team members - about 1,000 new first time volunteers and some experienced team members taking over leadership of events for the first time. - About 5,000 churches around England and Wales that will be using the new SU "Wastewatchers" or other SU resources for their holiday bible clubs. - Great opportunities to introduce thousands of children with no church connection to Jesus - the first step on a spiritual journey 21.06.07 Holy God, faithful and unchanging, enlarge our minds with the knowledge of your truth, and draw us more deeply into the mystery of your love that we may truly worship you. Amen Upholding our Pastor in Prayer This week, please pray that David will resist temptation. Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: - the appointment of the Childrens' and Families' Worker. Pray for the candidates who have been seen, and for the one person yet to be interviewed, and for those involved in the selection of the right person to the post. May God's will be known, and acted upon. - the Parish Centre building project and our ability to take the plans forward in a way that is pleasing to God, especially the meeting being arranged for Sunday 1st July. - the organisation and dedication of everyone involved in the Sumnmer Fayre on 23rd June - and in particular for a dry afternoon! - everyone involved in Furnace on 29th June. - the planning for Jungle Jamboree for children aged 5 - 11 in July, and Summer Rendezvous in August People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know who are ill or grieving. We also pray for Madelaine McCann and her family, and for Alan Johnston in Gaza - God knows where they are - please pray for them. Give Thanks - for something God is doing in your life. Mission Focus We pray for Paul and Sarah Tester as they prepare to start their mission work in Peru. Read their latest prayer letter here. 14.06.07 Holy Spirit, sent by the Father, ignite in us your holy fire; strengthen your children with the gift of faith and revive your church with the breath of love. Amen Upholding our Pastor in Prayer This week, David will continue to make personal devotions and quiet time a priority. Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: - the appointment of the Childrens' and Families' Worker, as 3 candidates prepare for interviews on 18th June. Pray for them, and for those involved in the selection of the right person to the post. May God's will be known, and acted upon. - the church building project and our ability to take the plans forward in a way that is pleasing to God. - People @ Prayer on Wednesday 20th June @ 7.45pm - pray for the "Prayer Walk" around our parish, starting and finishing with prayer in church. Those who are unable to walk are invited to stay and pray in church. The walk will last around 30 mins and prayer guides and routes will be available. Refreshments will be provided afterwards. Please join us for this exciting new opportunity to make a difference in our community. - the organisation and dedication of everyone involved in the Sumnmer Fayre on 23rd June. - the planning for Jungle Jamboree for children aged 5 - 11 in July, and Summer Rendezvous in August People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know who are ill or grieving and for Fathers who nuture and care for their children, and for those who don't. Give Thanks - for Ellie Michell, daughter of Phil and Rachel who will be dedicated to God this Sunday. Mission Focus It's Your Move! Please pray for Scripture Union workers across the country who, in the next few weeks, will be helping Year 6 primary pupils to prepare for their transition to secondary schools. Their sessions use the booklet "It's Your Move", to provide a positive shared experience as the children approach their move in September. Novimost are asking for prayer for the Church Summer Camps in Bosnia. They write, "We are in our final week before we go off to the camps and we are in the midst of our final preparations." Prayers are asked for: -all the practical preparations. -the long term team of workers for continued strength and stamina, and a powerful sense of God's guidance as they build friendships with the young people and talk with them. -all the young people who will be going to the different camps that their hearts will be open to hear the word of God. -for the health of the campers and the workers because there have been a few cases of sickness (from the livestock - sheep) in the area where the camps are being held. 07.06.07 Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Are you ready to make this your prayer for the week? God might just take you up on it - you could be the answer to your prayers. Upholding our Pastor in Prayer Over the coming few weeks, you are invited to uphold David Mouncer in prayer in his role as our Pastor. This week, please pray that David will know God's will - and do it. Church Life We come into God's presence asking for His guidance, protection and energy for: - the appointment of the Childrens' and Families' Worker, as 3 candidates prepare for interviews on 18th June. Pray for them, and for those involved in the selection of the right person to the post. May God's will be known, and acted upon. - the church building project and our ability to take the plans forward in a way that is pleasing to God. - the organisation and dedication of everyone involved in the Sumnmer Fayre on 23rd June. - the planning for Jungle Jamboree for children aged 5 - 11 in July, and Summer Rendezvous in August. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of people we know - use these headings to ask God to bring to mind a name and rest with them a while with God: - confused - people with chronic illnesses - the recently bereaved - those still suffering the loss of a loved one at any stage in the past - an angry person trying to forgive Give Thanks - the work of the Furnace team and the development of this ministry - the response within the Parish to Christian Aid week - answers to prayer in our lives - from major events to "God - incidences" - give Him the glory! Mission Focus Paul and Ruth Lapworth, Tear Fund. In their latest newsletter, Paul and Ruth invite us to join with them in prayer as follows: Give thanks for: - the appointment of Serena to replace Paul as Programme Director. - good progress with construction of new house and office in Juba. - safety of the Tearfund teams working in Sudan and good progress in health and nutrition projects. - safety for Paul despite extensive travel in recent months. Pray for: - the appointment of a new Finance Manager to replace Serena, plus a new Deputy Programme Director and a nutritionist. - a good transition for the family back to the UK in July -( they fly back on 11th July - Julie). - that wed be able to sell our car before leaving and also raise the financial support we need to see us through the next two years - (they need £10,000 for the first year alone- Julie). - continued security for the teams in Sudan and that their work would continue to have a high impact on the communities they serve. 01.06.07 Just a brief 'Prayer Thought' this week for the website from Mark Hoare. As so much unrest is in the world we pray that: The peace of God may reign in all our hearts and in our nations. The justice of God may inform our thinking and that of our leaders. And the love which God has for the world infect our's and the world's compassion. Think of a place where there is suffering and pray for the people threre. Church Life We lift to God the Development Project prayer meeting on Monday and the 'Church on the Bus' Mission Sunday next week. 25.05.07 This Sunday we celebrate the Day of Pentecost - read all about it in Acts chapter 2. Holy Spirit, sent by the Father, Ignite in us your holy fire; Strengthen your children with the gift of faith, Revive your Church with the breath of love, And renew the face of the earth, Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. Upholding our Pastor in Prayer over the coming few weeks, you are invited to uphold David Mouncer in prayer in his role as our Pastor. This week, please pray that David will be empowered by the Holy Spirit. People Come into the presence of God on behalf of: - Alex and Pat Simpson, for a smooth and successful move to their new home. - Those who are unwell. Church Life Please pray for everyone preparing to take part in tonight's (Friday) "Furnace" event. Give Thanks For Dave Simmonds' fund raising achievements following the London Marathon for Samaritan's Purse. Mission Focus This week, please remember the work of Samaritan's Purse - they ask us to pray for the situation in eastern Africa where there is a severe drought - yet again.... The UN estimate that 11 million people across eastern Africa are in desperate need of food and water right now. There have been no rains for 18 months, people are dying of thirst and livestock are dying. The extent of the drought and famine range across Kenya , Uganda , Ethopia , Somalia , Eritrea and Southern Sudan . Samaritan's Purse has teams already established across this region and we would value your prayers for us at this time, as we work through with our teams how best to respond. The next few weeks are vital with the long rains due and it is vital that they do not fail this year. Please pray for: -The people of Kenya , Uganda , Ethopia , Somalia , Eritrea and Southern Sudan. -For the long rains to come soon. -For the team from Samaritan's Purse as we seek to determine how best to respond. 18.05.07
Come into the presence of God on behalf of: - the journalist held now for 2 months in Gaza, Alan Johnston, in the week of his 45th birthday. - those who are unwell. - Madelaine in Portugal and all who are involved in searching for her. Mission Focus Tearfund has written to ask us to pray for Darfur and the surrounding region. As intense conflict enters its fourth year, the people of Darfur and neighbouring Chad continue to be forced from their hoes to live in fear in refugee camps with scant resources. Please pray for: - the people of Darfur, Chad and the rest of Sudan - for peace - that governments and rebel leaders will act wisely and justly for the people - for aid and God's love to reach those in need. The Bishop of El Obeid, western Sudan, has writtent he following prayer - may we join with millions of other christians and stand before God on behalf of these people through the words of this prayer: Almighty God, you have seen the suffering of our people in Darfur. We pray for your divine intervention to touch the hearts of people. We pray, Lord God, that the different factions will unite for peaceful dialogue so that the inhuman war atrocity will stop, and that the discrimination between tribal groups may cease. Amen. 10.05.07 Have you ever felt like this? Dear Lord, so far today, I'm doing all right. I have not gossiped, lost my temper, been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish or self-indulgent. I have not whined, complained, cursed or eaten any chocolate. I have charged nothing on my credit card. But I will be getting out of bed in a minute, and I think I will really need your help then. Ask God for His help this day and every day - He loves it when you do! People Come into the presence of God on behalf of: Madelaine - the little girl missing in Portugal - and her parents and family. Te new Children's and Families Worker - whoever, and wherever they are right now -may they hear God calling them to St Thomas'. Gemma Machin and Julie Brown - working away faithfully each week to lead our work with chidlren and young people. Janet and Ron Hamilton's son, David, on active service in Iraq. Church Life Please pray for Christian Aid week, for Eileen Balch and for all the volunteers who will step out next week - may the sun shine! Please pray for the PCC members (by name if you can) as they prepare to meet on Monday (14 May). Give Thanks For Bill and Pauline Woodend who have arrived safely in Spain. For improvements in David's health and well being. Mission Focus Today (10th May), Andy Lines, the General Secretary of Crosslinks, departs on a nine-day trip to Egypt and another North African country, Pray that he would build good contacts, especially with the Primate Mouneer Anis, who covers a wide area including North Africa and Ethiopia. 03.05.07 Here is a prayer thought I came across whilst reading this week - "Intercession means to simply stand in the presence of God on behalf of another: not talking, not asking, just being." Close your eyes and allow your awareness to centre on the following people so that God's love might flow between us all. People Pray for a good holiday (starting Friday) for the Mouncer family. Church Life Please pray for the forthcoming Christian Aid week, for Eileen Balch as she leads our efforts in the parish, and for volunteers to come forward to raise awareness and funds. Give Thanks For Ian and Katie Hoare who are beginning their married life together and for Bill and Pauline Woodend who are on their way to their new home in Spain. Mission Focus Andy and Liz Goodacre thank you for your continued prayers. Please continue! Novimost, please continue to pray for more volunteer leaders and helpers for the Summer Outreach to children and young people in Mostar, 7th July - 2nd September. Paul and Sarah Tester ask: please pray that all the arrangements that still need to be made in order for us to go to Peru at the beginning of September, including: all our church and individual support to be pledged by the end of June, visas to be forthcoming, language learning to go well. Also that we spend enough quality time together during our preparations for Peru. A sense of settledness, particularly for Sarah, as we travel around the country, visiting supporting churches at weekends and as we come to the end of our time at college and have to say goodbye to good friends. 26.04.07 Matthew 28 v.20 I am with you always to the very end of the age. You are not alone as you pray! Before we give him our requests this day, spend a few moments coming into his presence. Imagine him with you in the room, sitting next to you, reach out and know he is with you. People David (Mouncer) says "Many thanks for all the prayers. I am also very grateful for the APCM meeting last Sunday night - it was good in so many ways - it was, simply, an act of worship. Thanks, David" Please also remember Lisa and the children. Let us ask God to surround this family with His love. Please pray for Eileen Balch as she heads up our Christian Aid Week activities. As we say goodbye to Pauline and Bill Woodend this weekend, please hold them before God in prayer for their move to Spain, and for their new life. We thank God that He is with them always - even in Spain! Let us thank God for Dave Simmonds and his London Marathon success last Sunday, and the money he will raise for Samaritans Purse International through his effort. Dave's feet are in a mess, but he has a lovely story to tell of the experience - and he may even do it all over again next year! Church Life As the Marriage Event takes place this weekend, please pray for Janet Turville and everyone leading the sessions. Please think of a Christian couple you know and pray for them. For Gemma Machin and the lovely variety of young people who are wholly responsible for this week's Youth Service on Sunday evening. Give Thanks Ian (Hoare) and Katie are getting married on Saturday at Enfield Baptist Church, London. Please pray that God would bless their marriage and life together. Also please pray that all the arrangements would go smoothly and for safe travel for all those attending. Mission Focus Andy Goodacre has asked us to pray ¡viva la revolución! At the end of April we have a students / young adults weekend away called ¡viva la revolución!. My hope for this weekend, as well as people getting to know each other better and a sense of community being able to develop further, is that we really develop some new and creative ways of living out our faith and connecting with people around us who dont currently connect with CT. Please pray for the individual students and young adults in Christus Treff, that they would keep on growing more like Jesus, and be bold in living out their faith with integrity. jesushouse I will be in Hamburg in the north of Germany during the last week of April, working as an interpreter at Jesus House, a big youth mission week. The main events are happening in the Fischauktionshalle, a popular concert venue, right in the middle of the city, and are being broadcast simultaneously to hundreds of youth groups all over Germany and central Europe. Please pray that young people would get to know who Jesus really is during this week. Please pray for the many youth groups and youth leaders all over Germany, that they would see their prayers answered during this week. Prayer Request from Novimost International Gill Rowell writes, "Each summer brings fantastic opportunities to bring a quality programme of activities to the youth of Mostar and to reach out into the community and make a lasting difference to their lives. The Summer outreach programme is from7th July - 2nd September. We need more people - and soon - if we are to deliver the programme we have prepared! Summer volunteers, aged 18+, need to have a heart for God, be committed Christians with an expectancy that God will use them and be flexible team players." Please pray that offers of help will come flooding in. Further information is available on www.novimost.org . 19.04.07 Matthew 28 v.18 All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me. In whose name do we pray this day? In whose name do we make our requests this day? Can you name a place where his authority doesnt cover? Give Thanks For the decision to recruit a full time Children's and Families' worker and pray for the right person to be identified for this post. People As Pauline and Bill Woodend prepare to move to Spain at the end of the month, please pray for the organisation of the move, for tender farewells, and careful uprooting and replanting, and for their health over the next few weeks. We pray God's mighty blessing on them both. Church Life Please pray for the "Furnace" celebration event being held tomorrow (Friday 20 Aptil) As the final arrangements for the Annual Parochial Church Meeting are made for Sunday evening, please pray for all who will be ivolved in reporting on the church's life in the parish at St Thomas' and St Peter's. Please pray for David as he leads the meeting, and for the Holy Spirit to breathe renewed hope and life into our church family. Mission Focus Paul and Ruth Lapworth have been in touch with this update: Paul got on really well in his 24hrs at All Nations and we were offered places at the college, places at a C of E school not far away for Simeon and Emma, and a flat on campus for half the rent of a house in town! So quite successful really! We're so thankful for the way things have fallen into place and it just seems to confirm that we're heading in the right direction. However, they also provide an example of the work siutation facing Paul: A few weeks ago one of the Tearfund vehicles in Sudan was involved in an accident which resulted in the death of one Tearfund staff member and injuries to several others also in the vehicle. Please pray for the family of the deceased man, that they wouldn't seek revenge for the accident, and for the driver that he'd have peace and courage to accept his situation (he may also lose his job). Oh, and do pray for wisdom for Paul as he manages the whole situation and tries to work out the best course of action. Christian Solidarity Worldwide reports that yesterday (18th April) one German and two Turkish Christians were attacked and killed in a Christian bookshop in Malatya, Southeast Turkey. The men were members of the Malatya Kurtulus Church. The men are survived by their wives and children. Please pray for the families of these men, and for the authorities, that they take appropriate and swift action. See www.csw.org.uk for more on this tragedy. May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Love of God, and the Fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all, evermore, Amen. 05.04.07 (Covers two weeks) Matthew 27 v.46 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me. These words were said by Jesus during his trial before the Sanhedrin. A good reminder that this is the position of authority that Jesus has. We pray to the one who has this authority. Give Thanks For the "Furnace" event last Friday, and pray for the plans for the next one on 20th April. For the decision to recruit a full time Children's and Families' worker and pray for the right person to be identified for this post. For this month's "Rendezvous" which was held today. As the Lent course on prayer as the source of life draws to an end, give thanks to God for the insights gained, the lessons learnt, and our relationship with God deepened. People Please pray for the many people who will be travelling this week and next to spend time with their family and friends - if you know anyone who is travelling, ask God to keep them safe and bless their holiday. Mission Focus Thank God for the "Church on the Bus" and for all those involved in giving their time to serve God in this mission activity. Please pray for Captain Alan as he provides leadership, and for the people of Chesterfield who are visiting the Bus. The next World Mission Prayer Event is on 18th April - please find out the latest news and join with others to pray for Church on the Bus, Operation Christmas Child, OMF, and Robin Dawson Christ is Risen - He is risen indeed! 29.03.07 Matthew 26 v.46 In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven. These words were said by Jesus during his trial before the Sanhedrin. A good reminder that this is the position of authority that Jesus has. We pray to the one who has this authority. Give Thanks For the safe arrival of Thomas Elias Atkinson, a son for Emma and Scott, and brother for Sam and Ben. For the success of the "Easter Cracked" event on Tuesday, and for the 90 or so children who heard more of God's love for them. May the word of God reach their hearts. As the latest edition of "Spotlight" is delivered across the Parish, please thank God for all the work that has gone into it, and pray for those who pick it up from their doormat will allow God into their lives. For the work of the team who run the monthly "Rendezvous", and for next Thursday's event. People We continue to pray for David Mouncer, our Readers and Retired Clergy, as they lead and preach at the services during Holy Week, and on Easter Sunday. Please pray for this Friday's "Furnace" - especially for those leading from the front, and those supporting at the rear of church. Saturday afternoon sees the wedding of Beki and Mark - pray God's blessing on their wedding day and on their marriage. Slavery This week we remember the work of Wilberforce and others to bring an end to slavery, we are encouraged by CSW (Christian Solidarity Worldwide) to use this prayer: Lord God, we ask for your forgiveness for the millions of people around the world still residing in slavery and servitude. We pray that You would help us to share in Your love for the needy, and ask that You would guide us in playing a part to end slavery. 22.03.07 Julie Lomas has now taken over Prayer Focus. Julie writes: Thank you for the lovely messages and encouragement I have received this week. Many thanks to Emma for her work with this over the last couple of years. Walking to Easter! Matthew 26 v.39 yet not as I will, but as you will Jesus words in the garden must be our words with our prayers! Give Thanks For Totzone, and the wonderful ministry to families with young children each Monday afternoon. Please ask God to bless the Pram Service on Monday 26th, and to call someone to be the leader / coordinator for this activity. Church Life Next Tuesday evening sees the Easter Cracked event for children at church. Please pray for Julie Brown and David Mouncer as they head up the evening, and also for the volunteers who are looking after the groups, organising the activities, and ensuring the 90 or so children who have booked are safe. Please also pray that as well as a good time, the children may also understand more about God's love for them through Jesus' death and resurrection. Overseas Focus Zimbabwe As you may have heard in the media, on Saturday (10th March) a peaceful prayer rally in a suburb of Harare was abandoned because of violent obstruction by the police. The meeting was organised by the Zimbabwe Christian Alliance. It was intended as an opportunity for Christian and civil society organisations and local churches to join together in prayer for the political and economic crisis gripping the country. Please join with others around the world in prayer. Thailand We have received prayer requests this week from Johnny and Ann McClean (and Matthew, Bethan and Joshua) in Thailand. Their full letter will be in Church, but here are their prayer requests: The school year finished at the end of February for the university and high school students. At the beginning of March we had an impromptu Bible School for ten days when Johnny met with a group of 6-8 students each night to study Johns Gospel together. This was an encouraging time as they wrestled with the basics of their faith and Johnny was particularly thrilled to see them so hungry for Gods Word. Many of them are now on work-placement or back living with Buddhist families for the summer break (until June 1). Praise God for this unexpected opportunity to study Gods Word with the students and pray that the Lord will continue to keep and guard them over the coming weeks. We are looking forward to the summer break but expect to continue with half-day Thai school and half-day English home-school for the next academic year. We also hope that Bethan will start Nursery in Thai and Home School in June alongside Matthew. Please pray for Ann as she teaches the children each afternoon and for the kids as they handle two educational systems. Pray for wisdom as we relate to the Buddhist school and for good relationships with their teachers. Please also pray for: A reliable and trustworthy house-help for the Nakhon Sawan Youth House and our family A short-term worker/volunteer to help us with home-school and child-care in July-August (anyone interested? Julie). Nigeria In today's edition of The Independent, a small piece on page 28 reports that muslim pupils from a secondary school beat a christian teacher to death, after accusing her of "desecrating the Koran". The paper states: "It was not clear what she had done to anger the students". Please pray for the safety and witness of our brothers and sisters in Nigeria this week. 15.03.07 Philippians 2 v.6 Who, being in the very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing... This verse is often seen in terms of the incarnation. Personally, I see its fulfilment at the cross. He made himself nothing for you for me for this parish. He must love us! Pray with confidence to the one who loves us so much. Give Thanks We give thanks for the safe arrival of Katherine Emily Murray, born last Wednesday, a beautiful daughter for Helen and Bryan and sister for Elizabeth. We pray for Gods rich blessings on Katherine as she grows; for Gods guiding and wisdom for Helen and Bryan as they bring her up. We give thanks for the PCC meeting on Monday night, especially for the way the relationship with St Peters is improving and becoming more positive. Church Life We continue to pray for the young people following the Weekend Away. We thank God that they had such a fabulous time and that God was really moving among them. We pray that their encounters with God not fade but would strengthen their faiths. We pray for the Mothering Sunday services, when we usually receive a number of visitors. We pray that they would feel welcomed and drawn into our fellowship and that their experiences would lead them to return to future services. Well, the time has come, and here is my last prayer email. I just wanted to say thank you for all your support and encouragement whilst I have been doing the email all very much appreciated. I shall miss doing it but look forward to receiving it now Julie is taking over. On a personal note, we would very much appreciate your prayers for Wed 28th March when our baby is due to be delivered by elective caesarean section. God bless, Emma. 08.03.07 Lamentations 1 v12 Is it nothing to you, all you that pass by? Look around and see. Is there any suffering like my suffering that was inflicted on me, that the Lord brought on me in the day of his fierce anger. Spend a few moments meditating on this verse. Put the words into the mouth of Jesus! Give Thanks We give thanks for Julie Lomas and her decision to take over the prayer email. We ask that God would bless her richly for her service. Church Life Youth Weekend away: Please pray for all the members of Pathfinders and CYFA as they take part in their weekend away in Durham. Please pray for all members, both those going and those not able to, for God's protection, spiritual growth and the opportunity to draw closer to God in faith. We continue to pray for our relationship with St.Peters. We give thanks for Alexs service to the parish as he prepares to leave on 20th May. We ask for Gods provision, protection and guidance for David as he copes with the extra workload which will follow. World Mission Update on Decision-making - from Paul and Ruth Lapworth in Nairobi We want to thank you so much for your prayers for us over the last couple of months as we have asked the Lord for direction for the next step. Many of you wrote with your thoughts and words of encouragement. Many also expressed relief that we had decided not to go to Juba as a family at this time. It has been a blessing being reminded that we are part of a community of believers and not on our own. Well . were both very excited and committed to the idea of going to bible school for a couple of years. Many of you will know that this is something that has been on our hearts for quite a few years and our home church is very much supportive of. When praying about the next step we felt God speak through Joshua 1 to take courage and a step of faith. The themes of a change of leadership, becoming grounded in Gods word and entering a time of rest seemed particularly significant for us at this time. We have applied to go to All Nations Christian College in the UK. Paul has applied to do the BA in Biblical and Intercultural Studies which he is hoping to complete within 2 years. Ruth has applied to do the certificate in the same subject part time over 2 years. Paul will be back in the UK at the end of this month and will have an interview with the college which we trust will be successful. We are trying to avoid trying to answer the ultimate question of what will come after college?. We are confident that whatever it is, the church, the poor and Africa will probably figure significantly. We would continue to value your prayers as we take things forward with All Nations, and work out accommodation and schooling as well as look for the financial support we will need to raise to get through college. We hope to send out a full newsletter within the next week or so. God Bless, Paul, Ruth, Simeon, Emma & Lucy. 01.03.07 Matthew 6 v10 Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. As we spend time in prayer, we can begin to see the world through God's eyes and understand more fully his heart of compassion. Stand alongside Tearfund's partners in prayer this Sunday. Give Thanks We give thanks for last Friday nights Furnace event at church, for the encouraging attendance, and positive feedback. Please pray that this initiative - which is from the young people (but for everyone!) - will grow and gather support from across the church and wider community. Church Life We pray for the forthcoming youth weekend away to Durham from 9-11 March, which will see around 30 of our Pathfinders and CYFA members attending. We ask for Gods protection over all preparations and travel, and pray that God would work through Gemma and the leaders to help the young people in their spiritual journeys. We pray for World Mission Sunday this week focussing on Tearfund and that the faith lunch afterwards would be a good opportunity to strengthen church family relationships as well as learning more about Tearfunds work. 22.02.07 Philippians 4 v6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Have the confidence to trust that God has heard your prayers. Have peace that he will respond in the most perfect fashion. Give thanks that we have a God who does this. Church Life We pray for the first Furnace event which takes place tomorrow (Friday) night. We give thanks for the vision of those who have set it up; for their openness to God's directing and ask for an anointing of the Holy Spirit. We pray that many would feel led to attend and that all who go will be touched in new ways by God's presence. 15.02.07 Romans 12 v12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. What does it mean to be faithful in prayer? Can I suggest that we need to be persistent when we pray, fervent, hopeful and faithful. Give Thanks We give thanks for Alex Cartledge who is coming for baptism this Sunday. We ask that God would shine as a light in his life and that one day he might come to make a commitment to Christ for himself. We thank God for his parents who have decided to bring Alex for Baptism and pray for them as they make these solemn promises both for themselves and their child. Church Life We pray for St Peters DCC meeting on Monday evening which has been especially convened for them to further consider future plans for Rose Cottage. We pray for the Spirits presence and guiding. 08.02.07 Colossians 4 v2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. What does it mean to devote yourself to prayer? Not, the last resort, but the first resort! Give Thanks We give thanks for the wonderful news that last weeks Rendezvous saw more people there than. How encouraging to know that the majority were not church members and that there were 4 new ladies who came from a branch of the Towns Womens Guild who said they would certainly come again. Praise God! We thank God for all those that attend, and pray that He would continue to work through this group. Church Life We pray for Totzone, thanking God for the growing numbers (they are almost at capacity). The group is however desperately in need to a leader and we pray that the right person may step forward to serve in this role. World Mission From Johnny and Ann McClean working in Thailand with OMF: Please pray for Mrs Sompit, a Thai Christian lady whose 34 year old son, Bam, suddenly died of a stroke last week. Bam was not a Christian and he looked after his two small children, aged 5 and 3, after his girl friend abandoned both him and the children. We pray for Mrs Sompit as she grieves the loss of her only child, as she witnesses to family and friends and as she works out how to care for both herself and her grandchildren on a rural teacher's salary. Last Saturday, Johnny travelled to Lopburi to be with Mrs Sompit during the three Buddhist funeral days which ended on Wednesday. Ann stayed in Nakhon Sawan with the children in order to continue with their on going work, but joined Johnny on Wednesday for the final cremation. They were hoping to return to Nakhon Sawan this Thursday. This last week has been very challenging for them and they have relied on friends to look after the children. Ann writes, "Please pray for Johnny as he tries to help and support Mrs. Sompit through this very painful time. In Nakhon Sawan we also face a heavy week with preparations for the evangelistic Valentine's Party next Wednesday (14th) and a number of other bible studies. I am particularly grateful for the Lord's provision of Natalie, a short-term worker from New Zealand, who has unexpectedly joined us for two weeks. She is an excellent extra pair of hands and as a primary school teaher she is more than willing to do Matthew's home school each afternoon." (Matthew goes to a Thai school each morning. 01.02.07 1 Peter 3 v12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears attentive to their prayers. As we pray, remember the attentiveness of the Lord pray with confidence. Give Thanks We give thanks and praise to our God and King for this news from David re the meeting with St Peters: the meeting on Monday went very well. There was a real desire by the DCC to solve the issue of Rose Cottage. A plan has been put together that, with the PCC approval, will result in a solution which I believe will be satisfactory to the whole parish. It was a wonderful meeting. Church Life Following the housegroup leaders meeting yesterday, we give thanks that it was such a positive evening when our leaders were able to worship together and support and encourage each other. We rejoice in the news that most of our groups have welcomed new people so much so, that in the not to distant future, some may need to consider splitting exciting times. Praise God! World Mission Barbara Goodacre writes: Thank you for praying for Andy Goodacre and the young leaders' representatives, along with two older leaders, from across Europe who met in Poland last weekend. Andy reports that it was a very productive weekend. There was a a good mix of male and female and they were all very competent leaders. They are now planning to set up mentoring groups for young leaders. Further into the future they are looking to arrange a big conference for young leaders from across Europe to take place at the end of 2008 or the beginning of 2009. 25.01.07 Psalm 27 v.8 Your face, Lord, I will seek. Do it! In silence, in meditation, seek his face. Go through the whole psalm and list all that the Lord is to you (ie. my light, my salvation). Church Life As the job advert for the Development Project Officer appears in this weeks notice sheet, we pray that God would already be preparing and prompting the right candidate. Although it is hoped to appoint from within the congregation, it may be necessary to go externally. This is such an important role as it will take the project to the next stage over the coming 12 months and we ask for Gods blessing. As yet, no one has stepped forward to take over the prayer email. Please continue to pray that the right person would be found so that this valuable ministry might continue. My last one will be Thurs 15th March unless baby arrives sooner! World Mission Paul & Ruth Lapworth have asked us to pray as they consider the options for their future. Based in Nairobi , Paul is currently leading the Tear Fund team working in Southern Sudan . A move to Juba in South Sudan was being planned but the deteriorating security situation means this is no longer an appropriate posting for a family. The Tear Fund team had to be evacuated from Juba during December. Paul is passionate about the poor and the role of the church in making a difference. Please pray that they will be guided to the right place to use the gifts God has given them. Gill Rowell of Novi Most International writes, Thank you for your continuing prayers for us, it is wonderful to have the support of St Thomas. I am in Mostar this coming week (w/b Mon 29th Jan). If you could pray for me and all of us I'd really appreciate that. We are reviewing Advance our 10 year strategy. Wisdom, discernment, boldness, clarity, confidence are the things I think I need! Thank you. Pray also fro Gary Swart from Tearfund who will be facilitating this time of review and revision. Andy Goodacre will be in Poland this weekend 27 -30 January, meeting with 14 other young leaders representing different European countries. Pray for wisdom, discernment and guidance as they seek ways forward to encourage young leaders throughout the whole of Europe in outreach and mission. 18.01.07 Psalm 26 v.8 I love the house where you live O Lord, the place where your glory dwells. Pray that Gods glory would be evident in your life and in all the situations we are to pray about. Church Life We pray for the meeting on Sunday afternoon where the latest plans for the Development Project will be shared. We pray for Gods wisdom in all the planning and for the Holy Spirits guidance in the decisions that have to be made. We pray also for unity and peace across the whole parish in the decision-making that all our conversations and plans will bring glory to God. 11.01.07 Psalm 25 v.4 Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths. Its so easy to shopping list our prayers. We too easily think that prayer is telling God what to do. Lets take some time to pray for his will to be done, his kingdom to come. Give Thanks We give thanks for the prayer email which has been running for nearly a year now. We thank God for all the answers to prayer we have seen as we have joined together as a church to pray for each other and the life of St Thomas . As some of you may know, we are expecting our third baby due end March / beginning of April and with this new addition to our family, I shall sadly need to take a break from compiling the prayer email. If anyone feels this is something they could commit to, please feel free to contact me and I can tell you a little bit more about what is involved. We pray that the right person would feel called to this role. Church Life We pray for the first PCC meeting of 2007 to be held on Monday evening. Once again, there are a number of important decisions that need to be taken and we pray for wisdom and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. 04.01.07 Psalm 24 v.1 The earth is the Lords, and everything in it. Who do we pray to? Focus on the might and majesty of God, and lift up your heads (v.7). Give Thanks David writes: Christmas was a good time. We give thanks for the many visitors to St Thomas and let's pray that some return. Church Life As we enter a new year, we pray for ourselves as individuals and as a church that Christ would be at the centre of all we say and do throughout 2007.
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