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ISSN 2049-4971

MAY 2012

Reading scoop promotion while Kerith and Greyfriars net cup wins

NOW Bigger & better!

let’S CeleBRAte! Fantastic guide to Jubilee events

Join us online

News2 May 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

Welcome to your bigger and better

Points mean a better world with a revolutionary reward scheme

v Ted’s offer for Xn readersA LOCAL carpet company will help Yeldall Manor for every order placed through Xn.

Callaghan Carpets and Flooring – which advertises in our trades directory – has made the generous offer as it seeks to support the community.

“For every job I do as a result of advertising in Xn magazine I will donate 5% of the total invoice price to Yeldall,” says Ted Callaghan, managing director of the Woodley-based company.

“We believe our prices are very competitive – so what have you got to lose?”v For full details, call Ted on (0118) 962 8527 or log on to www.callaghanflooringandcarpets.co.uk.

v Food for thoughtRECIPIENTS of food parcels from ReadiFood are also being given food for thought.

The Christian-run group, which provides emergency food parcels to people in real need across the Reading area, is including a copy of the latest issue of Xn with the parcels.

“This is great,” said Phil Creighton, editor of Xn.

“Xn is packed with encouraging and inspiring stories and we hope that the recipients of the magazine will enjoy reading them.”

Confused by parables????? A systematic approach to understanding

Parables Three sessions with Michael Penny

(Chairman of Churches Together in Reading) 2.30-6.30 Saturday June 9th, 2012.

St. Stephen’s Church, Upper Basildon, Reading, RG8 8LS

Refreshments will be served between sessions and there is no charge for the afternoon.

For directions and further information please call 01491-671357

email admin@obt.org.uk for a free copy of Search magazine or visit

www.obt.org.uk

v Correction

Dear Editor,I find Xn very interesting and

informative and a pleasure to read, but please can we have our Vicar back!

In the March and April issues, the Revd Denis (only one n) Smith is stated to be Minister of St Mary Magalden. In fact he is our Revd – of St Catherine’s Church of Sienna, Wittenham Avenue, Tilehurst.

Please will you return him to his rightful church!

St Catherine’s is 50 years old this year and we have many functions organised to celebrate our half-century.

Many thanks,A member of the congregation

v Thanks to this reader for spotting our mistake. We’d like to take this opportunity to apologise to Denis for both mis-spelling his name and for attributing him to the wrong church.

Bishop’s grand tour

WelCOMe to the May issue of Xn. As you’ll notice it’s bigger and better than the previous issues.

We’re always striving to bring you the best possible publication, packed with the latest news from Christians and churches across the thames Valley.

Our new page size allows us to bring you even more news and information that will encourage, inspire and inform you about life in our churches. And, best of all, Xn is still completely FRee!

We want you to be able to share copies with the groups that meet in

your church, with your neighbours and at local events.

And we want to encourage you to advertise YOUR business in our pages – you’ll support our ministry and reach thousands of Christians every month.

Phil Creighton, editor Xn

Reward Your World’s Nick Crowder launches the scheme which enables you to help charities through their everyday activities

A ReVOlUtIONARY new reward scheme is being launched in Reading later this month and individuals, churches, local business and community organisations are being invited to join up.

Reward Your World has been designed to help us all to do better together.

The scheme sees participants earn BetterPoints when they undertake a range of activities, from shopping to taking part in voluntary work.

These points can then be spent in three different ways: within the local community such as towards a church-project or a school building fund, donated to charities who work across the world, or spent on yourself and your own household.

Reward Your World has been launched by Dan Gipple, Dan Girdler and Nick Crowder, who launched Christian Community Action.

“We all want to do better, live better, make an impact,” said Dan Girdler, “but life is full. Reward Your World makes it easy and rewarding”.

The scheme has a real focus on helping community engagement, by building partnerships and encouraging social action.

Reward Your World, which is based locally, is designed to support – in a host of

ThE Bishop of Reading marked May with a special pilgrimage – he travelled on water.

The Rt Revd Andrew Proud, who is responsible for the “old Berkshire” part of the Diocese of Oxford, spent a week aboard a narrowboat on the Kennet and Avon Canal and the Thames as a way of getting to know his patch and encouraging clergy to take time out from their busy lives.

Each evening he held a service in nearby churches.his journey started in Newbury on Monday, April 30 and

ended in Windsor on Sunday, May 6. Accompanying him was his wife Dr Janice Proud and his

chaplain for the week, the Revd Graeme Fancourt. Along the way he raised money for WaterAid in Ethiopia – where he served as a bishop before moving to Reading a year ago.

“The area I serve is vast and its shape makes it very difficult for us to feel connected to each other,” said Bishop Andrew. “A year into my time here, I decided I wanted to do something to bring as many of us together as possible, to help me understand the Area better.

“I’m hoping this will be a chance for us to draw breath and reflect on the fast pace of our life in Berkshire.”

ways – the good works already happening in the area.

The scheme is backed by a range of partners including Reading Borough Council.

Its outgoing CEO, Michael Coughlin, said: “The thinking that has gone into Reward Your World has been immense.

“It will help people do more for themselves and each other and build communities

around interests that can scale very, very rapidly.”v Reward Your World launches its pilot scheme in Reading during May. For more details, turn to the centre pages. vFor more details email info@rewardyourworld.com, or log on to www.rewardyourworld.com to see the introductory video.

3To advertise call 01932 246408 | www.xnmedia.co.uk |May2012News

Celebrations as Reading FC win promotion back to Premiership

v Plans for Abbey Quarter A KEY piece of Reading’s past will be transformed into a unique historical and cultural destination if the town’s council bid for Lottery cash is successful.

The Abbey Quarter, next to Forbury Gardens and backing on to St James’ Catholic Church and Abbey Baptist Church, is home to a number of important historic sites including the 12th century Abbey ruins and Reading Gaol.

At the April Reading Borough Council cabinet meeting, plans were approved to repair the ruins of the Abbey, which has been closed since 2009. There will also be renovations to Abbey Gateway and St Laurence’s churchyard wall.

If the bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund is turned down, alternative restorations plans will be acted on. Work should start in the summer of 2013 and take two years.

v All the fun of the street fayreWOKINGHAM’S annual May Fayre – the biggest street fayre in the south of England– takes place across the town centre on the May Day bank holiday Monday, May 7.

Organised by the Wokingham Lions, the event sees stalls and entertainment take over Denmark Street, Market Place, Broad Street, Peach Street and Elms Field.

So far, more than 100 organisations are taking part in the day, including a range of charities from the area.

Attractions include a mini-fun fair, a Punch and Judy show, live music and dance displays and local groups including morris dancers and street entertainers.

Entry to the event is free, and the day runs from 10am to 5pm. v For more details and the latest programme, log on to www.wokinghamlions.org.uk.

vFaith answersTHOSE looking for more information about the Christian faith can take part in an Exploring Faith course, which starts this week.

St Michael and St Mary Magdalene in Easthampstead is hosting the six-week course, which launches on Tuesday, May 7 with a supper starting at 7pm.

For more details, call the Revd La Stacey on (01344) 428518.

LifeSpring plans restoration of The PavillionA CHURCH that’s met without its own buildings for the last 30 years could be a step closer to having its own home after it completed the purchase of Riley’s Snooker Hall.

LifeSpring Church bought the Oxford Road based buildings at the end of April and is now applying for a change of usage agreement from Reading Borough Council in order to fulfil its vision of having a permanent base in the town.

Currently the church meets

in Prospect School on Sunday mornings and in homes during the week. It has also been expanding its youth and children’s work as well as running a hostel for men recovering from addictions.

If permission is granted for the change of use, LifeSpring will seek to restore the original name of the building – The Pavilion – which dates back to its beginnings as a cinema.

LifeSpring hopes to make the building a community

resource, running toddler groups, youth events and lunches for senior citizens. It also hopes to offer courses and support for marriages, debt counselling and arts-related activities such as music, dance and creative workshops.

The church also plans to make space available for concerts and conferences.

“Our vision is to be a church which makes a positive difference to the people and town of Reading,” says the

church’s pastor Neville hollands. “We are looking forward

to being part of the local community in the Oxford Road area and believe our contribution will add positive benefits to this part of Reading. We hope The Pavillion will become a hub of activity and life serving the local community.”

To avoid any parking issues with the busy Oxford Road, LifeSpring will encourage visitors to use nearby Chatham Street car park or visit by bus, cycle or walk.

PICTURE EXCLUSIVE: Reading fans celebrate the team’s promotion to the Premier League with their victory over Nottingham ForestPictures: Martyn Strong and Steve Prince

v WitnessedAFteR a four-year gap, Reading FC are returning to the Premier league after winning the Championship. HereReading FC’s Chaplain Steve Prince gives an insight into the night when a single goal got the promotion party started – and looks at what happens nextThE celebrations started big-time as the final whistle was blown by the referee at the end of a tense game against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday, April 17.

After putting us through an emotional roller coaster, Reading FC achieved phenomenal success by gaining promotion to football’s top flight after a four-year absence.

The game itself was nervy and anxious

but as news filtered through about West ham’s draw at Bristol City, the crowd started to sing “score a goal and we are up”.

The team duly obliged and the goal was scrambled in – and the Mad Stad erupted as if the next 10 minutes of the game didn’t matter.

When the final whistle blew, the crowds rushed on to the pitch and the players were exalted and honoured as the heroes they are.

One of the very special characteristics of Reading FC is that it really is a team.

Promotion to the Premier League has twice been achieved by teams who have worked hard together rather than through the efforts of one or two “superstars”.

Behind the scenes there are also strong teams of people who work together with similar values and common purpose.

Running through the club is a rich vein of leadership at every level and in every department. There is also a pastoral prayer team which meets at the stadium every Friday to pray for the health and well-being of everyone associated with the club.

Promotion brings its own challenges but, as chairman Sir John Madejski has said, there is a Reading way of doing things which includes ensuring that good foundations are sustained and that the club’s role in the community continues to grow and develop.

The investment of new major shareholder, Anton Zingarevich should help provide further resources to help Reading FC establish itself at the higher level.

All the talk is of strategic spending that will help further strengthen foundations.

Come on URZ!!v Steve is pastor of Brookside Church, Earley

News4 May 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

Christians celebrate new lifev Steve to pick up the batonAN INTERNATIONAL ministry devoted to helping equip the Church to make fruitful disciples will see a Reading man become its international leader at a special service later this month.

Freedom In Christ ministries has been led by Neil Anderson for many years but at the celebration event, Steve Goss will pick up the baton from Neil.

Millions of people around the world have benefitted from the ministry of Neil Anderson, founder of Freedom In Christ Ministries and author of best-selling books such as Victory Over The Darkness and The Bondage Breaker.

This is likely to be Neil’s last visit to the UK, as he hands over his work to Steve, who runs Freedom In Christ UK and is co-author, with Neil, of The Freedom In Christ Discipleship Course.

Neil said: “This coming summer will mark 40 years of ministry, and I will be 70.

“It is time to pass the baton, and I couldn’t have handed it to a better person.”

The service takes place at Greyfriars Church on Wednesday, May 30 from 7.30pm. Entry is free and an offering will be taken for Freedom In Christ’s work internationally.v For more on the ministry, log on to www.ficm.org.uk.

v Hope & funCHURCHES Together in Marlow are expecting more than 1,000 people for its Hope in the Park event at Higginson Park, Marlow on Sunday, May 20.

Running between 1pm and 6pm, it will be an afternoon of fun for all the family with activities, stalls, music, worship and entertainment with, among others, Reading Community Gospel Choir. The theme is Let The Flame Burn Brighter and will also include testimonies from guests including Delroy Brown who appears in the television series Scott and Bailey.

A CHURCH in Crowthorne will be making the most of the bank holiday with its annual May fair.

St John’s Church will be taking over Morgan Recreation Ground on Monday, May 7 for a fun-packed afternoon of entertainment.

Attractions include three bouncy castles, fun stalls including a Mr Men Shy, a visit from Sam The Engine and a real fire engine and toys and sweets.

Older visitors will enjoy a plant sale and a beer tent.

There will be entertainment from the Yateley Morris Dancers, the Sandhurst Community Brass Band, the Laura Henderson School of Dance and the church’s GLorEE singers.

It takes place between 2pm and 4.30pm.

“We hope you have a great day out,” said a spokesperson from the church.

MEN are being invited to take part in a weekend of discovery and restoration, led by fellow men.

Organisers of the Alive and Dangerous event will encourage participants to accept Christ’s invitation into a larger story, one that involves risk, adventure and battle.

“About 40 of our guys attended last year and, for a number, it was life changing,”

said Lynn Chetcuti, associate pastor of Network Vineyard Church.

The men-only weekend takes place from 7pm Thursday, September 13 to lunchtime on Sunday, September 16 at Windmill Farm, Clanfield, Oxfordshire. It costs from £135-£195 and will include all food and accommodation. v For full details, log on to www.aliveanddangerous.co.uk.

Enjoy all the fun of the fair Be Alive and Dangerous

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SoNNING Despite the wet weather, villagers turned out in force for some traditional easter games and climb the tower of St Andrew’s church on easter Monday.

rEADING Abbey Baptist Church stood in for a Churches together Reading sunrise service. It was planned for Forbury Gardens, but rain forced the change of plan.

WoKINGHAM the Good Friday shop reopened its doors during Holy Week for crafts, stories fun and Christian art displays. On Good Friday, an open-air play was performed in Market Place.

TILEHUrST On Good Friday, churches walked to the triangle for an open-air service of witness. It was followed by a sunrise service on easter Sunday.

CAVErSHAM Songs of easter praise were sung in the town centre on Holy Saturday as churches in Caversham joined forces for the simple act of witness.

News 5To advertise call 01932 246408 | www.xnmedia.co.uk |May 2012

v AldermastonFAMILIES in Aldermaston are being invited to a special fun day on Sunday, June 3.

held at Aldermaston CE Primary School, attractions include an aeroplane fly-past, Olympic athletics, a hog roast, competitions including tug o’war and a children’s fancy dress and a screening of the Queen’s procession.

The day also includes a special Songs of Praise service led by parish rector, the Revd Becky Bevan. The day runs from 10.45am to 6pm. Tickets are £1.

v BrimptonUNDER 16s living in the parish of Brimpton will receive a free commemorative cup as part of the area’s Jubilee celebrations.

v CavershamIN CONJUNCTION with the residents of highmoor Road, there is to be a Jubilee Party at Caversham heights Methodist Church on Tuesday June 5 from 2pm.

It will include a bring and share tea, games and races in the afternoon and a barbecue in the evening.

v EarleyEARLEY St Peter’s Church will celebrate the Jubilee with an open-air Eucharist.

Music will be provided by the Pangbourne Silver Band.

After the 11am service on Sunday, June 3, the church plans an open-air lunch where the menu will include coronation chicken.

All are welcome, but the parish office will appreciate knowing if you intend to stay for lunch by Sunday, May 27.

For more details, call the office on (0118) 966 8575.

v FinchampsteadFESTIVITIES planned at St James’ Finchampstead include a Big Lunch on Sunday, June 3.

On Monday, June 4, the church hosts a barn dance with fish ‘n’ chip supper at the Memorial hall, followed at around 10pm with a procession up to the Church for the lighting of the Jubilee beacon and some rousing community singing with a glass or two of bubbly to help with the celebrations.

v WoolhamptonSONGS of Praise for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee will take place at Douai playing fields, Upper Woolhampton on Sunday, June 3 at 11am. The service will be led by the Revd Des Foote and include the nation’s favourite hymns.

v SonningST ANDREW’S Church will hold a parish service of Thanksgiving for the Jubilee starting at 10.30am on Sunday June 3. Afterwards, there will be a street party for the parish to enjoy.

Over the Jubilee bank holidays – Monday, June 4 and Tuesday, June 5 – there will be a scarecrow trail around the village. Children are encouraged to make their own scarecrows and the winners will be judged by local MP Theresa May.

Villagers will also be opening their gardens to the public. More blooms can be seen at a flower festival in St Andrew’s Church.

v SwallowfieldChURChES in Swallowfield, Farley hill and Riseley are joining forces for a Jubilee festival which takes place from Thursday, May 24 to Sunday, May 27.

It starts with a preview evening which will include short talks on the churches’ treasures and Mary Russell Mitford. On Friday and Saturday there will be open houses, coffee events and, on Saturday, a Mummers’ Play.

A Songs of Praise service will be held on Sunday and throughout the weekend there will be an exhibition reflecting life in the villages during the Queen’s reign.

On Saturday, June 9, All Saints will host its summer fete, bringing the Jubilee celebrations in the village to a climax.

For more details, log on to www.loddonreach.org.uk.

v TilehurstST MIChAEL’S is having a street party to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee.

Routh Lane in Tilehurst will be closed for the party from 9.30am to 5.30pm on Saturday, June 2.

Parking has been arranged in the Church of the Latter Day Saints on The Meadway.

The fun starts with a bring-your-own food barbecue from noon. An all-ticket afternoon tea will be held from 4.30pm in St Michael’s Church hall on The Meadway. Tickets are £5 or £12 for a family – call Jackie Chappel on (0118) 956 9791 to book.

Prizes will be awarded for the best fancy dress.

For more details, log on to www.stmichaeltilehurst.org.uk

v Twyford EVERYONE is invited to celebrations at St Mary’s church and grounds from 4.30pm until dusk on Monday, June 4.

The Jubilee concert from Buckingham Palace will be shown on a big screen, a vocal group and a clown will entertain. Food and drink will be available.

The Jubilee beacon will be lit

accompanied with a short peal of bells around dusk.

v WargraveON TUESDAY, June 5 the Queen will attend a special service at St Paul’s Cathedral in London and St Mary The Virgin, Wargrave is erecting two large screens to screen the broadcast.

The church will open at 9.30am and, when the service begins at 10.30am, visitors can join in singing the hymns and praying.

Admission is by ticket. For details, email andyferguson1@btinternet.com

v WhitleyWhITLEY’S churches are teaming up for a Diamond Jubilee Celebration Street Party from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, June 2.

There will be a prayer walk in preparation for the party on Thursday, May 31 at 7.30pm.

v WokinghamON Saturday, June 2, there is a Jubilee Chorus Concert featuring 250 singers. It takes place at Elms Field from 7.45pm.

After the concert, The Bradbury Centre at Wokingham Methodist Church will show the Jubilee flotilla on the River Thames.

On Sunday, June 3, members of the The Corps of Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers will march through the town with “drums beating and flags flying”, after a parade inspected by the Mayor at 9am.

A Civic Parade will leave the Town hall at 10.30am, heading to All Saints for a Service of Thankgiving.

The parade features the Town Mayor and Councillors, and St Sebastian’s Band.

The Big Jubilee Lunch takes place in Market Place and the surrounding streets from noon. Local restaurants will be providing Jubilee Platters at £5 – or you can bring your own Jubilee Picnic. It runs from 12.30pm to 4pm.

In the evening there will be the Big Jubilee Concert with top bands playing music from every decade of the Queen’s reign. Admission is free.

It takes place at Elms Field from 4pm to 10.30pm.

Next month sees celebrations everywhere as the country marks the Diamond Jubilee of Queen elizabeth II’s reign. Here, we round-up just some of the many events and street parties being organised by our churches

v Berkshire’s thanksgivingBERKSHIRE will celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee at a special service of celebration and thanksgiving, which will be held at Reading Minster of St Mary The Virgin on Sunday, May 27 at 3pm.

The Bishop of Reading, The Right Revd Andrew Proud will officiate at the service, which will include representatives of many different faiths.

After the Service the Lord Lieutenant’s party, Civic Dignitaries and members of the congregation will be invited to process from the Minster to Reading Town Hall for a reception.

The Lord Lieutenant of the County, The Hon Mrs Bayliss, has invited representatives from many organisations in Berkshire to attend the special service.

Some seats have also been reserved for members of the public and applications closed on May 4.

The Lord Lieutenant said: “I hope members of the public will join in the Service of Thanksgiving and play their part in marking this memorable occasion.”

Jubilee will be a right Royal celebration

News6 May 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

Rabbi shares a generous message

The Revd Dan Tyndall, vicar of St Peter’s Caversham, introduces Rabbi Lionel Blue at a special talk held in the church last month

The Praise Bus will be travelling ahead of the Olympic Torch as it tours the country. It launches from Land’s End on Saturday, May 19

Get ready to catch the busv Evolution explored at talkTHE ins and outs of evolution will be explored at a special seminar taking place at Three Mile Cross later this month.

South of Reading Christian Fellowship and its school, The Vyne, will be welcoming Dr David Catchpoole and Tim Matthews from Creation Ministries for the talk, which takes place on Tuesday, May 22.

The international ministry aims to provide answers to the most-asked questions regarding creation and evolution.

In the afternoon, the duo will address pupils at the school and home schoolers aged 12 to 17 are invited to join them. The session, running from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, is called Facing The Facts Of Life.

Then, at 7.45pm, the pair will give an hour-long lecture entitled Evolution – Busting The Myth. All are welcome at this talk and, afterwards, there will be a bookstall.

The church is on the Basingstoke Road, Three Mile Cross, near Reading.v For details, visit sorcf.co.uk, or call (0118) 988 4508.

v Medalist Debbie to speak at family night AN OLYMPIC silver medallist will be the special guest at a special Olympic-themed night for families taking place on the day that the Olympic Torch starts its journey across the UK.

Rower Debbie Flood, who scooped silver medals in the 2004 and 2008 games, will share her story at the special evening on Saturday, May 19.

Organised by the Reading Churches Men’s Group, the evening also includes a quiz that all ages will enjoy.

The group are also organising light refreshments including cheese and nibbles, and guests can bring a bottle of wine should they wish.

Tickets for the evening cost £5 and it will be held at Reading Blue Coat School in Sonning. Bookings should be made by Tuesday, May 15 for catering purposes. v For more details, call John Broady on (0118) 954 3879.

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A WORLD famous Rabbi was the special guest at a new series of talks launched in Caversham last month.

St Peter’s Church was the venue for Sunday Supplement – talks that focus on values adopted by St Peter’s and other churches in the Parish of Caversham Thameside and Mapledurham – St John’s and St Margaret’s.

Rabbi Lionel Blue, well-known for his regular appearances on Thought For The Day on BBC Radio 4, recalled aspects of his life, notably after the

Second World War, when he helped Germany rebuild synagogues as part of his talk on the meaning of generosity.

More than 100 people heard his enthralling testimony held on Sunday, April 22.

The next talk in the series will be given by the Revd Dan Tyndall, the parish priest, and take place on Sunday, May 27.v For more details, call St Peter’s on 0118 947 1703 or log on to www.stpetercaversham.org.uk.

AN eXCItING series of events are being planned for when the Olympic torch will pass through Reading in July.

Although final details are still being worked out, a special evening is planned at St Andrew’s United Reformed Church in London Road, Reading on Tuesday, July 10, from 5pm to 7pm.

The church will act as a stop-off point for the Praise Bus that is touring the nation ahead of the Olympic torch, sticking as closely as possible to the route that the torch itself will take.

The Praise Bus, organised by members of the small chapel of Escalls in Cornwall, leaves Land’s End on Saturday, May 19 and snakes its way across the whole of the British Isles en route to London for Friday, July 27.

As the open-topped bus travels, it will offer prayer and praise for the neighbourhoods it passes and local worship groups will provide music at every step of the journey.

It is hoped that the special evening of celebration at St Andrew’s will feature the Reading Scottish Pipe Band – who rehearse at the church and will be taking part in the Olympics closing ceremony on August 12.

As they play, there will be a display of Scottish dancing and across the evening there will be music and singing from other local groups.

Organisers are keen to invite other churches to take part. If a church has a group, choir or solo singers or musicians who would like to take part in the event between 5pm and 7pm on Tuesday, July 10, email Richard Becher at becherhouse@btinternet.comv The torch will also be touring Windsor, Maidenhead, Ascot and Bracknell on Tuesday, July 10 as part of its journey to the London.

News 7To advertise call 01932 246408 | www.xnmedia.co.uk |May 2012

Gospel night will help Yanne get a life-changing operation

Park plans summer mission to South Africa

Farm to host Rogation service

v Pentecost retreat at DouaiAN OPPORTUNITY to celebrate Pentecost is on offer thanks to Douai Abbey.

The Woolhampton-based monastery is hosting a Pentecost retreat over the weekend of May 25 to 27.

Over the three days, guests will have the chance to celebrate the liturgy of Pentecost with the monastic community as well as exploring the working of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

The retreat will be led by Stefan Reynolds, administrator of the Institute of Religion, Ethics and Public Life at Heythrop College.

It costs £120, with discounts available for low incomes.

For details, email guestmaster@ douaiabbey.org.uk, call (0118) 971 5399 or log on to www.douaiabbey.org.uk.

v Concert for Christian AidTO MARK Christian Aid Week, a church in Sonning is hosting a special Jubilee Prom Concert.

During the Last Night of the Proms-style evening – to be held at St Andrew’s church in the village – the choir from Reading Blue Coat School will perform a Jubilee Anthem that they recently sang for the Queen at Westminster Abbey.

Also taking part at the concert will be St Andrew’s junior and adult choirs and well as some soloists.

It starts at 7.30pm on Saturday, May 12 and tickets, costing £10, will be available to buy on the door and include an interval drink.

v Bridge drive for SingersTO raise funds for its Jubilee concerts, the Twyford Singers are holding a Bridge drive on Thursday, May 31.

The afternoon is limited to 25 tables, with each table costing £28. Participants need to arrive at 1.30pm and bring their own playing cards.

The choir normally rehearses at the URC Church Hall in Twyford, and will give its Jubilee concert at Loddon Hall on June 23. A Christmas concert will take place at St Mary’s, Twyford.

For more details, call Sue Thomas on (0118) 934 2406.

A CONCeRt taking place later this month will help make a difference for a nine-year-old with Cerebal Palsy.

Friends and family of Yanne Nkurunziza, a pupil of Christ The King Catholic School in Reading, are looking to raise £50,000 so he can receive pioneering treatment in America.

Yanne was born with Kasselbach Merrit Syndrome, in which a vascular tumour leads to decreased platelet counts, and sometimes leads to other bleeding problems which can be life-threatening. he has also been diagnosed with Cerebal Palsy as a result of bleeding on his brain.

Currently confined to a wheelchair, the brave boy struggles with balance, sitting and walking. The muscles in his legs are very tight and very painful.

Two years ago, a new treatment known as Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) was devised in the USA, and will

help Yanne’s sitting, standing, walking and balance without the tightness in his legs. Importantly, he will not have pain. All being well, Yanne will receive the treatment this June or July. It will cost an estimated

£50,000, including aftercare physiotherapy.

To help with the fundraising efforts, The Globe in Portman Road, Reading, will be the venue for a special Make a Difference Gospel Concert on Saturday,

May 12. Starting at 6pm, the evening will feature music from Mark Burney, Reading Community Gospel Choir, By Faith and TVMC choirs.

Tickets for the concert cost just £5 in advance or £7 on the door and all proceeds will help Yanne get closer to his target.

This is not the first concert for Yanne, whose family attends the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Reading.

Just before Easter, 11 primary schools in Reading came together for a concert at The hexagon, which raised more than £2,000 for the fund.

So far, more than £24,000 has been raised.

“We’re still appealing to all who can to support to please make a difference in his life,” said a spokesperson for the fundraising team.v For more information, log on to www.yannesjourney.org, follow @yannesjourney or search for Yannes Journey on Facebook.

A fundraising concert will help Christ The King Catholic School pupil Yanne Nkurunziza receive vital treatment in the USA Picture: AOMedia

MEMBERS of Park United Reformed Church in East Reading are making sure they keep in touch with the missionaries they support – they’re flying out to meet them this summer.

Nine young people and 12 adults are planning to visit church members Neil and hilary Applegate in South Africa and offer practical help and support for their work.

The pair are working with Alathea Bible College, which provides skills training to local people as well as Bible tuition. Also connected to the College is a school for children aged five to 18.

While the Park members are visiting, they will have the chance to take part in a range of projects that may include running an after-school club, supporting church plants in rural areas and taking part in hospital ministry and some open-air drama.

The group is currently raising the funds needed to finance the trip.

FAMILIES are being invited to celebrate creation at a special rogation service being held later this month.

St Peter’s Church in Brimpton will hold the family service at nearby Manor Farm.

“Providing the weather is kind we will be walking to various parts of the farm where we sing a hymn and say a prayer asking for God’s blessing for different aspects of farm life – machinery, crops, animals, the community,” says the church’s Janice Macdonald.

“We finish up with refreshments in the barn. If the weather is too wet we stay in the barn.”

It starts at 10.45am and all are welcome. For more details, call the Revd Becky Bevan on (0118) 971 2281.

News8 May 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

A GROUP from Bracknell are proving that retirement can be fun.

The There’s More To Life (TMTL) club sees around 40 people get together on Thursdays for worship, teaching, sharing and keep fit.

Meeting at Kerith Community Church, the members also go on monthly outings. Venues include museums and local parks where they enjoy walks and picnics. In July, they are planning a visit to Bognor Regis.

“I enjoy TMTL because of the fellowship with one another, particularly for me, as I live on my own,” said one of the members.

New members are welcomed and meetings start at 1pm on Thursdays. It meets in the K2 Hall, Church Road (part of the Kerith Community Church complex) and guests should bring a packed lunch – drinks are provided. v For more details, log on to www.kerith.co.uk, email info@kerith.co.uk or call (01344) 862699.

A CHURCH will celebrate its 150th anniversary later this month with a blooming good show.

Christ Church, on Christchurch Road, Reading, will mark its milestone with a flower festival from Friday, May 18 to Sunday, May 20.

As well as the displays, there will be musical interludes from a selection of musicians and the church is preparing an exhibition of historial documents.

On Sunday, the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Andrew Proud, will preach at a 10am Eucharist service and, at 6pm, there will be a Festal Choral Evensong.

The flowers will be on show from 6pm-9pm at a ticket only preview evening on Friday, 9.30am-3.30pm on Saturday and noon-6pm on Sunday.v For details, visit www.christchurchreading.org.uk.

A FAMILIAR face stood in the pulpit of St James’ Finchampstead before Easter – it belonged to Jon Snow, the Channel 4 newscaster.

he was visiting the packed church to give a lecture as part of the church’s Lent course. Speaking on the theme The Media: Why The Worst May Be Over, And The Best Is Yet To Come, the journalist gave an inspiring talk.

In it, he looked at how the technology that brings us the news has changed over his career, right up to present-day reporting utilising camera phones and social media.v You can listen to the six lectures in full by logging on to st-james.finchampstead.co.uk/news/notices.

Saying it with flowers Jon gives Lent talk

Fraser swims the Solent

v Fundraising summer fayreTHE Warehouse, part of Wycliffe Baptist Church in East Reading, will host a summer fayre on Saturday, May 26.

Money raised will go to the Jo Jones Leukaemia Fund and the Royal Berkshire Hospital’s intensive care baby unit.

The fun starts at 12.30pm and continues to 4.30pm.

v Simply jesus at discussionTOM WRIGHT’S Simply Jesus will be the topic of conversation at a book group which meets later this month.

St John’s in Crowthorne is organising a discussion evening on Tuesday, May 22 and all are welcome to join in.

For more details, call Anne Pelham on (01344) 774973.

v Question timeALL Saints Church in Downshire Square, Reading is hosting a quiz night on Saturday, May 12.

The fun evening starts at 7.30pm. Entry is £5 per person and includes refreshments. All proceeds go to church funds.

For details, call the church on (0118) 957 5049.v A PUZZLING quiz night will help raise funds for a local and an international charity.

Ben Kwaku, a member of St James and William of York Church in Reading, is organising the night on Saturday, May 31.

Tickets cost £3 and raise funds for Reading Mencap and Zambia’s Mongu Maternity Clinic.

The questions start at 7.30pm and takes place at Eat & Drink, formerly the Cotton Club, on Redlands Road.

For details and tickets, email: kwaku_ben@hotmail.com.

v Historic dance to be recreatedTHE first recorded morris dance in Reading took place in St Laurence Church in 1513 – now, plans are being made to re-enact it.

The Kennet Morris Men, who practice in St Mary’s Church Hall, Shinfield, want to celebrate the event and are looking for more male dancers. v For details call Chris Hutchinson on 01252 875510 or 07739 216553.

A teeNAGeR from Reading has raised more than £1,200 for Cancer Research after swimming all the way to the Isle of Wight.

Fraser Carter, who attends Wycliffe Baptist Church in east Reading undertook the 5km swim from Portsmouth across The Solent on Friday, April 13.

his epic splashabout was in memory of a close friend who lost their battle with cancer.

“I thought this would be a great way to pay my respects to her,” he said on his Just Giving page.

“The money donated will go from scientists working in labs to doctors testing new drugs in hospitals and people researching types of causes of cancer.”

Fraser’s swim took just over three and a half hours. Accompanying him in a canoe was friend Joe Foster.

he got the idea after taking

a trip to the Isle of Wight last year.

“I thought to challenge myself for the next time I go,” he said on his Just Giving page.

“Instead of taking the ferry, why not swim?

“It took a fair bit of training as I haven’t swam more than 100m

in one go before.”Fraser had planned on raising

£1,000 for his efforts so he is delighted to have beaten his target.v It’s not too late to donate to Fraser’s fund. His Just Giving page is www.justgiving.com/Fraser-Carter.

A jubliant Fraser Carter punches the air with joy as he finishes his epic swim from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight in aid of Cancer Research

v A night with Mark’s GospelAN Earley church is inviting you to get the whole story when it reads through Mark’s Gospel in an evening.

Earley St Nicolas will host Mark – My Words on Friday, May 18. During the informal evening, the Gospel will be read in full, accompanied by pictures and music.

“So often, we hear or read the Gospels and the Bible in bite-size chunks; whether in church or at home,” said organiser Lindsey Sharpe. “This is a wonderful opportunity to take time away from busy lives to listen to, and reflect on, Mark’s words as he tells of Jesus’ time in our world from his baptism through to his resurrection.”

The evening starts at 7.30pm and refreshments will be provided.

It will be held at the church in Sutcliffe Avenue, Earley. v For more details, call (0118) 966 9080 or log on to www.stnicolas.org.uk.

v Chance to share togetherCHRISTIANS in Wokingham are being invited to an evening of praise and worship later this month.

Churches Together In Wokingham are meeting for an Ecumenical Prayer & Worship event at Corpus Christi Church on Tuesday, May 15.

The evening will include opportunities to worship together, share Bible passages, reflections and Psalms and pray.

“We would encourage anyone who would like to, or feels moved to do so, to bring prayers, psalms or readings which they would like to share, to this Prayer & Worship evening,” said organiser Richard Hughes.

It starts at 7.30pm and will end by 9.30pm and will be held at the Sturges Road church in Wokingham.

v Ascot church needs organistA PARISH church in Ascot Heath needs an organist. The chapel of St Mary and St John is looking for someone to help play the electric organ or piano for its 9am Mass on most Sundays.

If you can help, call the parish office on (01344) 884686 or email office@all-saints-ascot.org

Taking time to enjoy life to the full

News 9To advertise call 01932 246408 | www.xnmedia.co.uk |May 2012

CHURCH leaders in Reading are calling for a Reformation for the town.

Members of the Reading Christian Network (RCN) are planning a half-day conference next month to explore what such a Reformation would be like.

The call for the meeting, which takes place on Wednesday, June 20 at Greyfriars Church in Reading’s town centre, comes after 15 years of regular prayer and relationship building among the town’s church leaders through RCN.

The Reformation invites church leaders in Reading to imagine a variety of situations where every Christian

• understands and receives their call and mandate to be a minister and missionary.

• is regularly equipped to serve, affirmed and encouraged to minister in the workplace, schools, university, communities – literally everywhere

• is compelled by the love of Christ and secure in the love of Father God, sharing his heart and compassion for all humanity and resisting judgmental attitudes

• is released to servce wherever God calls them to

• is commissioned and sent out – from a gathering of as many Christians from as many churches as possible.

The vision is one that encourages the involvement of leaders from a wide range of church denominations and streams and other Christian ministries who want to see more of the kingdom of God “on earth as it is in heaven”.

“One of the things we are learning following nearly 15 years of leaders praying together for God’s blessing on our area is that our unity is proving very important in helping to establish an environment that attracts an increase of his presence through his people,” the leaders wrote in a statement announcing the conference.

“The question now is, can we work together and pray for a fresh reformation that mobilises every community.”

v The conference

RCN invites Reading church leaders to Reformation event

v All quiet in the gardenA CENTRE that helps Christian enjoy some peace and quiet is gearing up for a series of reflection days over the coming months.

The Aston Tirrold Centre for Reflection, near Didcot, launched its series of Quiet Garden days on Saturday, May 5 with a day dedicated to listening.

The series, which is led by the Revd Keith Green, continues on Saturday, July 14 with a day devoted to giving thanks. On Saturday, October 13, it focuses on praying ways, while the final event, held on January 19 next year, will focus on Gardening in Africa.

Each meeting costs £10 and includes a light lunch. Booking is essential.

For more details, call (01235) 850423, e-mail: coordinator@reflect.freeuk.com or log on to www.reflect.freeuk.com.

v Bluebells are blooming niceRUSHALL Organic Farm hosted a weekend of bluebell walks over the weekend of April 28 and 29.

The Bradfield-based farm welcomed visitors for its special walks through up to five miles of the seasonal flower.

The event, like its lambing weekends in March, raised funds for the Reading Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Although the public open weekends are now over for the year, it is possible to book a visit via its website, www.rushallfarm.org.uk.

v open space for big ideasSPRINGBOARD, a group that aims to help people in Reading to run with their dreams and visions to transform the town, is hosting an open space event later this month.

During the evening, which will be held at Southcote Mission Church in Southcote Lane, people have a chance to share their vision and ideas with others, gaining a helping hand on making those dreams a reality in the process.

The evening includes food and starts at 7.30pm on Friday, May 18. Places must be booked.

For details, visit www. springboardreading.org.uk.

Members of Tamesis, conducted by Louise Rapple, record a track for their forthcoming CD at St Martin’s Church, East Woodhay

MOST groups recording a CD head to a recording studio – not so for a Reading based choir.

Members of Tamesis Chamber Choir visited a church to perform tracks for its forthcoming album Remembrance, which will be released in the autumn.

The 24-strong choir spent the weekend of April 14 and 15 recording at St Martin’s Church, East Woodhay. The church was chosen for its excellent acoustics.

The CD will feature Bob Chilcott’s 2010 Requiem, as well as Purcell’s Funeral Sentences.

The idea for the CD arose after Tamesis Chamber Choir’s successful autumn 2011 Remembrance concert.

“We had such overwhelmingly positive feedback from our audience that we thought we should reprise the programme and record it for posterity,” said Musical Director Louise Rapple.

The CD will raise funds for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity (formerly the Army Benevolent Fund).v The final concert in Tamesis’ Historic Times season celebrates the 2012 Olympics.

A Time to Perform, part of the Reading Summer Proms, will be sung at St Lawrence Church, central Reading, on Saturday, June 23. Tickets are £12 or £8 for concessions. For details, call (0118) 934 3200 or visit www.tamesischamberchoir.co.uk.

IMAGINE Reformation In Reading is an opportunity for church leaders in Reading to explore what the impact of a reformation would mean for the town and for the Christians who live and minister in it.

During the half-day

conference, which includes lunch, there will also be discussions as to what will happen next and what the results could look like.

It takes place at Greyfriars’ Church, Friar Street, Reading on Wednesday, June 20 from

9.15am to 1.30pm. The event is hosted

by Reading Christian Nework’s leadership team and is open to all church leaders in Reading and the surrounding area.

For more details, email readingchristiannetwork@gmail.com.

A LUNCh club will this month mark its 30th anniversary with a special celebratory meal.

Launched by Anne Soley on Ascension Day 1982, it has served thousands of bowls of soup, sandwiches and cakes to local people ever since.

Now, it will be adding birthday cake to its menu at the celebration lunch which will be held on Thursday, May 17.

hosted at St Catherine of Siena Church in Tilehurst, the club aims to offer friendship and food to local people, many of whom feeling isolated and lonely in their own homes.

“I had been visiting several people in the local community and realised that I could offer a chance for people to meet together over lunch and coffee,” Anne explained.

Anne had been working at St Catherine’s playgroup, but she had to step down when her elderly mother came to live with her, and from this came out a vision for the lunch club.

Anne’s plan obviously worked and – thanks to some willing volunteers – lunch was served to many, including staff from the nearby Acorns Nursery and Birch Copse Primary School.

The club continues to provide a relaxing place to come for lunch.

And, St Catherine’s is also looking forward. It is working on a redevelopment of the premises to further enhance its work.

It is planning to open café style facilities to benefit the local community and offer a full cooked lunch to elderly people once or twice a week.

SONIA lUDFORD

Anne’s lunch club vision serves up 30th birthday cake

Who needs a recording studio?

News10 May 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

Priory Automotive, the respected suppliers of motor cars to Clergy and the Church community, promise you the highest level of service, whilst also offering the very best value.

ethically run by a Christian team of industry managers they guarantee to take away all the worry and hassle usually associated with buying a used car.

one call to them and you will be met with courtesy, respect and honesty as they begin to fully understand your needs and requirements.

only after a nationwide search and history check of the very best cars will they offer you a suitable option. even then, every car is fully inspected and prepared to the highest possible standard, before a free of charge delivery to your door.

there are no hidden costs, everything is included, Service, Warranty, tax, mot, and part exchange of your old car is welcome.

there is no better way to buy your next car – many Church members have called Priory and been amazed just how easy it was to get a fantastic car, at a great price.

With options to suit all budgets, take a look at their website. it is full of genuine customer feedback, or call them, for a friendly chat to see how they can assist you too.

For more information call 0114 255 9696 or visit prioryautomotive.com

v MotoringAdvertiser’s announcement

When you are happy, we are happy…

Builders rise to charity cake baking challenge

v Children’s choir to give concert

These boots were made for fundraising

A BUIlDING firm proved that fundraising was a piece of cake when it held a bake-off for Help For Heroes.

Kingsmen Limited – run by a Christian board of Directors – is aiming to raise £5,000 for the military charity this year and encouraged its workforce to swap bricklaying for cake making as a fun way of making that total.

Just like their cakes, the workforce rose the occasion and on March 23, there were more than 20 entries ready for judging in the builders’ yard, which is based on Elm Park Road, Reading.

Judging was carried out by Rosie Anstice, owner of local catering firm The Banqueting Table. The overall winner was Jon Dent for his whiskey soaked fruit cake, with other prizes being awarded

for prettiest cupcake, biggest cheat and worst entry.

Rosie Anstice said: “I am overwhelmed by the quality and effort that has been put it, it’s been such fun to be part of”.

Chloe Baker said: “I was so pleased everyone entered in to the spirit of the event and we raised so much money!”

More than £200 was raised, and Kingsmen are looking forward to the other fundraisers later in the year including an endurance bike ride in September.

Last year Kingsmen raised £7,000 to fund. the drilling of wells in Uganda via Fields of Life. v For more details, log on to www.kingsmenlimited.co.uk or call (0118) 958 5777.

Jon Dent celebrates winning the Kingsmen Limited builders’ bake off. More than 20 entries were received for the contest that raised funds for the company’s charity of the year, Help For Heroes

ChRISTIANS from across the county are being encouraged to put on their walking shoes for a good cause.

As part of the annual Christian Aid Week celebrations, a sponsored walk is taking place on Saturday, May 19.

There will be three routes across the Oxfordshire countryside, ranging from five, 10 or 15 miles. Each one takes in the gorgeous Berkshire

countryside around Bix, a village between henley and Nettlebed.

Walking can start between 8.30am and 10am and participants are encouraged to get sponsorship for their efforts, or donate a minimum of £10 on the day. The start point is Bix’s village hall and this venue will have refreshments available and First Aid facilities, courtesy of the Red Cross.

“It is a great family

opportunity to get some exercise and do some bird, flower and animal spotting on a well marked route,” says local organiser John Russell. “The routes are well marked with our own marshals at various points with checkpoints to sign off your sponsor form.”v For more details, log on to www.christianaid.org.uk/walks or email walks@christian-aid.org.

A CHILDREN’S choir comprising some of Africa’s most disadvantaged orphans will be performing in Finchampstead later this month.

The Watoto Children’s Choir tours the world to raise awareness and support for its charity, which looks after children, many of whom have

lost their parents to HIV/AIDS. The Choir will perform at

Finchampstead Baptist Church on Tuesday, May 15 between 7pm and 8pm. Entry is free, and there will be an opportunity to give to the work of Watoto.

For more details, log on to www.finchampstead.com or call (0118) 908 8160.

Faith at work 15To advertise call 01932 246408 | www.xnmedia.co.uk |May 2012

Our philosophy is to treat everyone as a child of God; To see the gifts and talents that make each of us individually different and

yet part of God’s family.

As a Franciscan community of sisters and brothers, we desire to offer all people a place of welcome where they may discover a loving God in

their lives and in the beauty of creation.

Further information available on our Website: - www.coldashcentre.orgor from Sr. Helen FMM, at Cold Ash Centre, The Ridge, Cold Ash,

Thatcham, Berks. RG18 9HUTelephone: - 01635 865353

Cold Ash Centreof Franciscan Spirituality

Pregnancy doesn’t have to be daunting – especially if you have a doula to help you. Vicky Wong meets lisa Ramsey, a member of the Journey Church, who explains how she can help mums-to-be

PReGNANCY is no easy job and lisa Ramsey knows that all too well. On the evening we chat about her life and faith her working day had started at one o’clock in the morning and she was about to help an expectant mother go in for a C-section.

Like most mothers, Lisa knows that the most daunting thing about pregnancy is the decision-making: do I breastfeed or not? Should I give birth at home or at a hospital? What do I do on the day?

To take the fear out of pregnancy and make it simpler, Lisa and Karen Mitchell set up Confident Birthing in 2008. Both took Lamaze classes when they were pregnant and went on to have a positive experience giving birth with Lisa giving birth at home.

Lamaze is a childbirth technique that focuses on improving the mother’s confidence or as Lisa puts it: “The Lamaze approach to pregnancy and parenting is that it is a normal and natural life event.

“Lots of what we do is quite practical like movement and massage birthing techniques, and it’s not what you get on a standard antenatal class.

“Women have a whole range of options thrown at them. What we try and do is strip all of that back and let them decide what’s going to fit into their life. We help them make decisions for themselves and say, ‘Actually, you can make those decisions on what feels like the right answer for you regardless of what your friends or family are doing.’”

Lisa and Karen undertook childbirth training with Doula UK and started teaching Lamaze classes straight away. Being a doula involves helping the mother get through pregnancy from before, during and after the baby is born. This could include helping with the chores and the housework and the school run.

“Part of the deal when clients book us is when they call, we go. Clients book us to support them up to and during the experience, we meet with the couples and go on call two weeks before the due date until the baby is born. We are a constant support person and having a doula – someone experienced and someone you know who is with you the whole time – can make it easier.”

Like motherhood, faith is also a journey itself for Lisa and, as part of the Journey Church, it plays a huge part of her life and work with Confident Birthing.

“We are a church in that we gather regularly, believe in God, believe in Jesus, we worship, pray but we meet in each other’s homes instead of a church. None of us have got sorted lives but we are all on this journey together and are at different stages of our relationship,” she said.

“I always pray on my way to a birth. I believe that God makes sure nothing adverse happens and I try and tap in and encourage the mother to believe in herself.

“When in a desperate situation I tend to pray quite a lot, and in a couple of births where there is concern for the baby

I would say ‘I don’t know where you are in terms of faith and I would like to pray at this stage’ and they would go, ‘Oh, that would be great!’.”

As well as holding Lamaze classes, Confident Birthing also hold Mums & Baby coffee mornings at the Posha Café in Pangbourne and this year they set up Birth Reflections to help mothers who had a difficult experience giving birth.

“We have had women who have come out of their experience and have some unanswered questions. Some mothers who have had to have a caesarean ask themselves ‘why did that happen?’ What they hoped for hadn’t happened and often they will blame themselves.

“We get women to reflect and talk through it. There is some healing when women listen to each other and sometimes we arrange for them to meet with the midwife and pull apart the decisions they made, what happened and why and to bring some closure to it.

“If it failed it could be because your baby was struggling and the situation can become quite traumatic and difficult

to process, and a lot of it is not anybody’s fault. At the end of the day the baby and mum being healthy is the outcome you’re looking for.”

As well as doula-ing Lisa is involved in helping mothers have a better experience with birth. She sits on the Maternity Services Liasion committee at the Royal Berkshire hospital and also works with female young offenders who are either pregnant or at risk of becoming pregnant. She recently took part in the Reading half Marathon to raise money for the Stork’s Fund which was set up by the Royal Berkshire hospital to buy extras for mothers and babies that are not covered by the NhS.

What is it about helping mothers that Lisa finds so rewarding? “Seeing women’s strength,” she says. “Labour is what it says on the tin and it is hard work. Watching them persevere and push through, watching the partners help them and telling them they’re doing well is rewarding. And seeing new life, there’s nothing like it.”v For more details, log on to www.confidentbirthing.co.uk or call Lisa on 07747 806033.

Lisa is a Mum’s helping hand

Lisa Ramsey is ready to help mums have a

better birthPicture: Paul Barnfather

News16 May 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

CURVES health clubs recently gave food to ReadiFood, but the charity urgently needs more donations

CURRY, comedy, films and fun are on the menu this summer, thanks to a local church.

And Network Vineyard Church (NVC) – which meets in Reading and Bracknell – is inviting the local community to come along to any or all of the events planned this month and next.

The summer of fun launched on Friday, May 4 with a popular men’s curry night at the Rose Tandoori restaurant in Woodley.

Then, on Saturday, May 26, there will be a screening of Courageous, a film created by the makers of Fireproof.

“This is a powerful film that stirs emotions about fatherhood and honour and is highly recommended for everyone,” said Salim Yakub, spokesperson for NVC.

The film is rated PG-13 in the USA, which

is roughly the same as a 12 rating over here. On Saturday, June 2, the church invites

everyone to a family day out at the picturesque stretch of the River Thames by the Wokingham Waterside Centre on the Thames Valley Business Park in Reading.

“The day will be filled with picnic fun and games and hopefully, plenty of sunshine,” Salim said. “Wokingham Waterside Centre is a magnificent and exceptionally well equipped water activity centre that is set on a particularly beautiful stretch of the Thames. The centre will be open so there will be opportunity to go on the river in canoe and KataKanu (twin canoes) rides.”

The following weekend sees zany conjuror Steve Price perform a zany evening of magical fun thanks to his slight-of-hand tricks and illusions. The Christian recently

performed to a capacity crowd at Wycliffe Baptist Church in Reading and is a member of the Christian Inner Magic Circle.

Network Vineyard members are also planning a series of lunch dates, which have to be confirmed as we went to press.

Rob Gardiner, pastor of the church, says: “We are pleased to announce a series of fun-filled social events that will be hosted by the church during the summer. NVC’s mission is to multiply kingdom communities and, as part of its evangelism priority, the church is welcoming new members to join.”v All events are bookable and Network Vineyard Church says that early reservations are recommended. For more details, or to book a place, email salim@networkvineyard.org.uk or call the church office on (0118) 966 9782.

Food bank sends out 50 parcels a week as demand for help soars

Vineyard plans a fantastic summer of fun

tHe front page of GetReading recently shared the news that Food parcel requests are soaring. Sadly this is the case according to Malcolm Peirce, director of FAItH Christian Group which runs Reading’s local Food Bank ReadiFood.

“We have seen an enormous increase in demand for emergency food parcels over recent months”, Malcolm said.

”In fact, in just two years demand has rocketed three times over. We are currently being asked to supply over 50 parcels per week.”

This increased demand is put down quite simply to the changes in the economy and the number of people losing their jobs.

The worry for ReadiFood is that the trend seems to be showing no signs of decline and indeed local authority sources are suggesting that things may get a lot worse in the coming year.

ReadiFood relies entirely on donations of food, much of it collected by local schools and churches.

Last autumn’s harvest festivals produced a bumper crop and ReadiFood were recently blessed with a donation of food collected by the Curves health clubs in Reading and Lower Earley.

however, food stocks are again going down fast and the staff at FAITh are concerned that they won’t last till the Autumn.

If you know of a local church or business who could place a

food collection point on their premises, ReadiFood said that they would love to hear from you.

FAITh has a small army of volunteers and occasional added help from teams coming in to sort food. They have had help from Abby Girl’s School, St Edwards Boys and more recently LifeSpring Youth (Response).

however, as demand expands, so pressure on staff hours mounts with inevitable implications for finances. FAITh says it would really appreciate your support, as Malcolm said “Every little helps!”

As well as the Food bank, FAITh also run a Street Outreach

v Foodbank needs food

taking hot drinks and food to the homeless and have started a small housing project. v Full details of everything

FAItH Christian Group do and details on how to donate can be found at www.fcg.org.uk and www.readifood.org.uk .

BRACKNELL’S Foodbank was one of the recipients of money from the Waitrose Community Matters scheme last month.

Shoppers at the Bracknell store were invited to place a token of support for the charity as they shopped. Each month, Waitrose shares £1,000 among three local charities according to how customers vote.

The cash will be welcomed

– during February, the scheme gave out 1.8 tonnes of food to 238 people, the second highest number total to date.

The scheme is based at Kerith Community Church in Bracknell and urgently needs a range of items including breakfast cereal, pasta sauces and long life juices.v For more details, log on to www.kerith.co.uk.

v Climate justice talkA TALK to be held later this month will give you the chance to find out more about the global Time For Climate Justice campaign.

The evening will also include ways in which participants can get involved in taking action to gain climate justice.

It will be held at St John the Baptist Church, Waterloo Road, Crowthorne on Tuesday, May 15 from 7.30pm. All are welcome. v For more information, call Hannah Brooks on 07976 309668 or log on to www.climatejusticeonline.org.

v Solar panels get green lightA WOKINGHAM church will be hoping for a bright summer after getting the green light for solar panels.

The Cornerstone, the community centre in Norreys Avenue, Wokingham, will be able to install 40 solar panels after planning permission was granted by Wokingham Borough Council last month.

The panels are estimated to cost £25,000, and it is hoped a grant from electricity supplier EDF will meet half of this figure.

The Cornerstone is part of All Saints Church and the solar panels are part of the church’s ongoing commitment to reduce its carbon footprint.

v Book store in a phone boxWHAT is probably the country’s smallest bookstore will be launched this month.

The Parish of Bucklebury has bought the village’s BT phone box for £1 and has transformed it into a community book exchange.

The box will include details of Bucklebury’s history.

The kiosk’s new life will be launched with a performance of The Ballad of Bucklebury at 4pm on Sunday, May 6. Afterwards there will be a tea at the Bladebone pub in Chapel Row.

v Hymn appealA CHARITY hymn singing event was held at Bearwood College in Sindlesham on Friday, April 27 in aid of the chapel’s organ restoration appeal. £70,000 is needed for the renovations.

News 17To advertise call 01932 246408 | www.xnmedia.co.uk |May 2012

WHeN Caversham churches decided over a year ago to engage with the Olympic games by organising a Festival, they found that the local music charity Readipop also had plans for their annual Caversham festival a week later.

The Revd Jeremy Tear, a community priest in Caversham, suggested that Churches Together in Caversham and Readipop get together. The result is a partnership between the two for the Caversham in Christchurch Meadows on Sunday, July 8.

It is expected that 10,000 people will attend the event being held between Caversham and Reading bridges.

“We hope to help provide a joyous celebration that will give our local community a

chance to celebrate the positive things that life and faith offer. The festival will be suited to all ages and backgrounds,” said Barbara Macrae of Caversham heights Methodist Church, and a member of the organising steering group.

The churches’ involvement will include an all-age act of worship to start the festival at 11am on the mainstage, a prayer and information tent and Christian bookstall, and the day will include light hearted sporting activities, free inflatables, funfair attractions,

and a performance space in which local schools and sports clubs will give short displays of their singing, acting and sporting abilities.

Thirty bands will play on the festival stages, including two Christian ones.

Entry is free.“It was thanks to Jeremy for

coming up with this great idea of combining our 2012 plans”, said Russell Alsop of Readipop. “As a charity, Readipop uses music and arts to help those in need.

“What is so special about our partnership with Churches Together in Caversham is that they have similar goals but expressed differently”.

In addition to the festival, Churches Together will be running a holiday club for children aged 5-11 at a local

school the week before the Olympics.

It is also taking part in the More Than Gold athlete family homestay programme.

“We are delighted to be working in partnership with Readipop for the Caversham festival and see this as a great opportunity to engage with our local community around the time of the Olympics, as is the children’s holiday club”, said Jeremy.v For more information contact Jan Beardsley, CTC Olympics Events Co-ordinator atjanet.bearsdley@tiscali.co.uk. v For the children’s holiday club, megan.temple@cavershambaptistchurch.org.uk.v For the athlete family homestay programme, visit www.morethangold.org.uk.

JOHN MADeleY

Caversham Festival promises to be a joyous celebration

Plants for sale while you browse renovated church

v South Stoke plans major refurbishmentST Andrew’s Church in South Stoke is looking to improve its facilities.

The church is the largest in the village and is looking to install a disabled toilet, improve a flexible seating area and create a purpose-built servery.

Plans are in place to start work in 2014, and the church is now looking to raise £75,000 for the cost of the work.

For more details or to find out how to donate, log on to www.st-andrews-southstoke.org.uk.

v Ascension songs in BinfieldTO MARK Ascension Day, a church choir will be getting up extra early.

Members of All Saints’ Binfield will climb the church tower to sing Ascension hymns from 6.30am on Thursday, May 17.

Afterwards, the church will lay on a big breakfast and everyone is welcome.

v Get cycling for roof appealTHE roof restoration project at Holy Trinity Church, Bracknell will be one of the beneficiaries of funds raised by the Three Counties Cycle Ride on Sunday, June 10.

The ride starts at Garth Hill College in Bracknell and there are three routes to follow, 15, 33 or 50 miles.

For more details on how to enrol, log on to www.3ccr.org.

v Quiz night for Peru childrenA QUIZ night will help street children in Peru.

Taking place at the Barn, Purley on Thames on Friday, May 18, the evening will include a ploughman’s supper as well as the puzzling questions.

All money raised will go to the British Community Trust, which works in Peru.

For details, or to book tickets, call Liz Illman on (0118) 945 5365.

A ChURCh which has reopened after extensive renovations is springing back into life with the return of its popular plant sale and spring bazaar.

St Michael’s in Tilehurst replaced flooring, stonework and renovated fixtures during the work, completed in time for holy Week.

The plant sale takes place from 11am to 1pm on Saturday, May 12 and will include

a selection of annual and bedding plants, Refreshments and perennial plants will be in the Morlais Room and the Cloisters at the church on New Lane hill at the same time that day.

Green-fingered guests will also be able to explore the re-opened church.

“We want to welcome visitors to our newly restored Church which reopened on

after three months’ of dedicated work on Palm Sunday,” said a spokesperson for the church.

“Do come and see our William Morris window, Victorian pulpit and tiled floors, 17th Century marble effigies and our newly revealed 17th Century ledgerstone for the Zinzan family.”v www.stmichaeltilehurst.org.uk

STORYTELLER Bob Hartman entranced visitors to Greyfriars Church in Reading when he popped over from the United States of America for a day of fun.

He visited the church’s Time Out group and crèche before giving an assembly for EP Collier Primary School and taking part in an Easter egg hunt.

Then, in the evening, Bob gave an all-age performance.

“Budding young actors, and

even some willing adults such as the Vicar of St Matthew’s, Southcote, Pads Dolphin, were playing impromptu parts in Bob’s stories including Bible stories and stories from Aesop’s Story Shop – all imaginative, fun stories with a message,” said Debbie Thompson, Greyfriar’s Bookshop manager.

The day ended with Bob sat on the floor signing books for the children before travelling to Spring Harvest.

Bob’s busy day telling stories

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tHe Mayor of Reading, Cllr Deborah edwards, visited CCA’s Southcote Charity shop in Coronation Square to officially re-open the shop after refurbishment.

At the ceremony held at the end of March, she talked about the significance of the Christian Community Action shop for Southcote and its role as a focal point for the community.

Pads Dolphin, priest in charge of nearby St Matthew’s and a volunteer at the shop on Friday afternoons, prayed a blessing over the store and spoke of the value of the work CCA do in the local Community of Southcote.

“The shop is a really important hub of the

community,” he said. “People come in not just for affordable goods, but to meet others, to find a listening ear, to seek help and information, and to give their time and unneeded possessions.

“What’s more, the shop has enabled St Matthew’s to

help a number of people in the Community by making us aware of their needs.

“In many different ways, CCA provides an invaluable service to the Southcote community”.

The shop was refurbished at the end of last year – it was redecorated and recarpeted

and a new central heating system was installed.

This was made possible by a Capital Grant from Reading Borough Council and the support of Connect Reading, who arranged a team of 10 volunteers from SSE energy company to help redecorate.

News18 May 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

A fond farewell for East Ilsley

v WitnessedON GOOD FRIDAY, east Ilsley Baptist Chapel held its final service after 148 years to the village. the Chapel had strong links with Abbey Baptist Church in Reading’s town centre. Here, JOHN CHIlVeRS – Abbey’s church administrator – reports on the farewell service.

ThE chapel was full, as it always is for Good Friday services, but this year marks the sad occasion of the chapel’s closure after a witness in the village for 148 years.

It had been established by henry Fuller who founded five churches in West Berkshire – Ashampstead, Streatley, Compton, East Ilsley and West Ilsley.

East Ilsley is the last one to close.Jean Wells, the church secretary

welcomed the 120-strong congregation, and worship was led by the Revd Paul

Burnish, minister of Abbey Baptist Church in Reading.

As henry Fuller had been a member of that same church (formerly King’s Road, one of the oldest Baptist churches in the country), it was fitting that Paul would be the one to preach the last sermon at East Ilsley.

he said that the church at East Ilsley has accomplished what God wanted it to do; but God has not finished with the people in that church.

As Jesus sent out his disciples as missionaries, in the same way the remaining members of the chapel were being sent on to be missionaries in other places. This is not the end but the beginning of a new chapter. God wants to use all of us and he wants to use all of our experiences, things that have been learnt which can be taken and used in other congregations to help build them up.

The disciples when they were sent out were called to remember, to draw on their experiences of Christ and lead others to

a place where they too can know him as Lord and Saviour. For some that means going somewhere new and experiencing something new.

For others it means remaining where we are and dealing with the people and situations God sends us to. We serve a risen Saviour and that is our calling wherever we are, whether that be in East Ilsley, Reading, Didcot or Outer Mongolia, to declare his victory and love for all humanity and bring others to know him.

Three former Sunday School pupils spoke of their experiences, and Jeanne Smith (a former lay pastor) and Paul Revell (lay preacher and lay pastor of Cholsey Baptist Church) both gave a short address.

The Revd Colin Norris, regional minister for the Southern Counties Baptist Association closed the service.

A buffet followed, during which everyone had an opportunity to study a wonderful display of old photographs.

More than 100 people gathered at East Ilsley Baptist Chapel on Good Friday for a special service of closure after 148 years

Mayor reopens CCA store in Southcotev The Link blessed by friendly Dragons

Reading’s Mayor, Cllr Deborah Edwards (second left) re-opens the CCA store in Southcote

A befriending charity based in Wokingham has tamed dragons to win £12,000.

The Link Visiting Scheme –was one of five charities taking part in a Christian version of Dragon’s Den on Tuesday, April 24 and came away with funding to contribute towards the costs of replicating the model of the project in other parts of the UK.

The charity was shortlisted from more than 100 that applied to attend the event run by Christian charity Cross Pollinate and was held in one of the offices of accountancy company KPMG in central London.

All charities were given six minutes to present details of their work and vision, followed by a further six minutes of questions from the audience of 50 Christian potential donors.

Following the presentations, members of the audience were invited to complete a ‘pledge form’ in which they could support all or none of the charities financially for as little or as much as they chose.

Pledges were then gathered together and the results announced at the end of the evening.

Other charities present included Tools with a Mission, Time for Families, Child Aid and Big Lunch and a total of over £57,000 was raised on the night through the generous giving of those present.

The Link Visiting Scheme in Wokingham Borough has been operating since 1998 when it began as a small community project run by Woodley Baptist Church serving the Woodley area.

In 2007, 20 other churches from across the wider Borough area became involved, which enabled the project to cover a much wider area. At this stage, funding was secured from Wokingham Borough Council to enable staff to be employed and the project became a registered charity in 2010.

The core focus of the work remains visiting isolated older people in their own homes and there are now more than 130 residents receive visits from a similar number of volunteers. v For more details call (0118) 979 8019 (Wokingham project) or Jeremy Sharpe on 07970 100131 (national project).

Arts 19To advertise call 01932 246408 | www.xnmedia.co.uk |May 2012

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3 Thunder Dog Michael Hingson

4 Grace outpouring Roy Godwin

5 Walking in the Supernatural

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6 If God, Then What?Andrew Wilson

7 Do Yourself a Favour...Forgive

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8 Fearless LoveJames Andrews

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10 redeeming LoveFrancine Rivers

1 Courageous DVD

2 Fresh: New Songs For The Church

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3 The Loft SessionsBethel Music

4 10,000 reasonsMatt Redman

5 The Same LovePaul Baloche

6 Homemade Worship by Handmade

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7 Live in MiamiHillsong United

8 AwakeningJesus Culture

9 Decades of WorshipMichael W. Smith

10 Worship Anthems 2012 Various

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Serving the Church & Communities in Berkshire with Christian ResourcesMaidenhead | Reading | Slough | Wokingham• Bibles & Christian Books • CDs & DVDs • Gifts & Cards • Discipleship Course Material• Church Candles• Communion Wafers & Wine• Confirmation, Christening & Baptism Certificates• Bible Reading Notes & Study Guides• Sunday School & Teaching Material• Children & Youth Work Resources• and much, much morePop into your local store Monday-Saturday

Or visit us online at quenchshops.comStore addresses & opening hours are on-line

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Serving the Church & Communities in Berkshire with Christian ResourcesMaidenhead | Reading | Slough | Wokingham• Bibles & Christian Books • CDs & DVDs • Gifts & Cards • Discipleship Course Material• Church Candles• Communion Wafers & Wine• Confirmation, Christening & Baptism Certificates• Bible Reading Notes & Study Guides• Sunday School & Teaching Material• Children & Youth Work Resources• and much, much morePop into your local store Monday-Saturday

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Maidenhead 01628 621985 Reading 0118 957 6078Slough 01753 538999 Wokingham 0118 977 6715

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A SPORTS enthusiast and French aristocrat wants to take you on a whirlwind trip back to where it all began – the rebirth of the Opymlic© Games in Athens, in 1896.

Although he’s aiming to re-invigorate the world, body, mind and spirit with heroic sporting endeavours, Baron Pierre de Coubertin soon finds he has his own marathon to run in a play coming to Marlow.

Monsieur de Coubertin’s Magnificent Opymlic© Feat!’

the new and witty piece of theatre from Riding Lights Theatre Company.

The show aims to unpack the surprising spiritual roots to the modern Opymlic© Games using comedy, and the best moustaches this side of the 19th century.v You can see the play at Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School, West Street, Marlow on Monday, May 14.

For tickets, log on to www.ridinglights.org/opymlic or call 01904 613000.

Ride on, ride on!

v Fiction

Steve’s on the write linesSteVe BURt, a Caversham-based wordsmith has created a brand-new short story and is posting chapters on his website. He explains how it came about.

IF YOU said to me that 15 years ago I would have been wanting to blog and tweet about my new short story, I would have said, “Sorry mate” – but 15 years ago I was just beginning to start my journey with God. that’s actually quite key in my spiritual development, basically because I was not ready.

If you said the same thing 10 years ago, well I was certainly using my gift of preaching round various different churches who were kind enough to have me – but even if I look back on some of my old notes, even then I still was not ready/

Sometimes I look back and think, did I say that, or did I write that?

Today I am one of the leaders at Caversham Baptist Church.

I played a strong part in looking after the church during an interregnum and now surely I must be ready?

Well you know what? I think that after 15 years, I have learnt one thing ... I will never be ready, but the Lord is. he is ready and is well able.

And it’s armed with that knowledge that I put pen to paper so to speak. I personally believe that either by speaking or writing a preacher or writer must transport the listener to the heart of the message, basically bring it alive.

You may be sitting in your chair in church wondering what you are going to have for lunch, meanwhile I am in the business of transporting you into downtown Damascus, somewhere around noon 2,000 years ago, to follow in the footsteps of the Paul the Apostle.

For me the Word of God is alive and God is trying to say something, and how that’s portrayed is so vital – one can have all the latest technology but how you speak and how your emotions are conveyed is the key.

I can’t sing, or play an instrument, but I can draw a picture in the mind and that’s the gift I use. If I can put it into a message then there is no reason why I can’t turn it into a short story. That’s exactly what Washed is – a short story based on a Bible passage which I try to paint in words. Rolf harris was very good at taking his audience through a drawing, and they would never quite get the picture until the last minute – I sorta do the same.

What can your readers expect to see? Washed starts to introduce a main character, quite an important one, rather like a physician, which I believe will return in future stories, set somewhere in the 21st century mainland England.

I have always been partial to history, so one can expect to see an element of that.

Most of all I pray that whatever is written will be underpinned by the truth that Jesus is alive and will be for evermore.

Washed was a blessing to write, I have enlisted a proof reader, and I am currently looking for an illustrator, so it’s a collaboration in a way a very enjoyable one.

v How Washed startsAS the dawn tears itself across the Galilean mountainside and the warmth of the sun starts to penetrate the cool rock, as it warms, lizards and small reptiles slowly start to emerge from their night-time refuge, as they start to bask in the warmth of her rays.

In the almond and olive groves, the rich lush noise infiltrates the silence, as birds of all varieties compete for sound void. Still further down the hillside down towards the shores of Galilee itself, the sea is a tranquil calm as fishermen bring their boats back from a night of fishing.v To find out what happens next, log on to: sherbertpunt.wordpress.com

Sport20 May 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

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MArCH 24Brookside St Laurence 10 - 0 rW Corinthians

Warfield FC 3 - 3 West readingtilehurst Albion 6 - 1 reading SaintsKerith Community 4 - 1 Greyfriars FC

Bethel united 4 - 2 vineyard FC

MArCH 31Warfield FC PoSTPoNED vineyard FC

Wycliffe Wanderers 3 - 1 rW CorinthiansKerith Community 8 - 0 reading Saints

Greyfriars FC 2 - 1 West reading

APrIL 7tilehurst Albion PoSTPoNED Wycliffe Wanderers

APrIL 14vineyard FC 4 - 3 reading Saints

real World Corinthians 2 - 0 Greyfriars FCtilehurst Albion 1 - 3 Kerith Community Church

Bethel united 4 - 1 Wycliffe WanderersWest reading 2 - 4 Warfield FC

APrIL 28Greyfriars FC v tilehurst Albion

MAY 5Brookside St Laurence v tilehurst Albion

Kerith 2 – 1 Tilehurst Albion

leAGUe action took a back seat on Saturday, April 21 as the tVCFl focused on its two cup finals.

Ben Findlay continued his season-long goal-scoring form with a fabulous winner five minutes from time to secure the Philmar Cup for Kerith Community Church.

In a match largely devoid of the free-flowing, open and attractive football that has defined the top two teams’ seasons, let alone their league match a week earlier, Kerith had the crucial quality in front of goal when it really mattered.

Tilehurst Albion had the better of a scrappy first half, forcing most of the play and creating the clearer openings, but couldn’t break down a well-marshalled, stubborn Kerith defence.

For their part, Kerith were unable to settle into their own passing game and offered very little of note going forward.

In contrast, the second half

was a distinct improvement; the game began to open up and, as early as the 47th minute, Kerith wasted a glorious opportunity to take the lead when, eight yards out and with only the keeper to beat, the usually reliable James Charlton screwed his shot wide when he had so much time; a real head-in-hands moment.

The match didn’t really come to life until 20 minutes remained, when a Kerith free kick swung in by centre-half Andy Roberts was met with a sweetly timed, powerful header by his defensive partner James Kirby.

This sparked Tilehurst into playing with some greater urgency and they were rewarded a short time later when, after a cross had caused confusion in the Kerith defence, the ball broke to Lewis Wigginton, who lashed an equaliser into the roof of the net.

Attrition accompanied the heavy rain and the play became punctuated by several petty bookings.

It began to look like extra-time would be required until Findlay popped up to shatter Tilehurst Albion’s dreams.

From the left-hand corner of the area and with his back to goal, the striker neatly turned to the outside and clipped a left-footed strike into the top of the net, just beyond the fingertips of Jack Rogers’ despairing dive.

It was a worthy winner and the men in pink celebrated in style.

CHRIS BARLTROP

Home Away P W D L F A W D L F A Gd Pts 1 Kerith Community 18 7 1 1 49 10 8 1 0 71 8 102 47 2 tilehurst Albion 17 8 0 1 54 10 7 0 1 33 6 71 45 3 Brookside St Laurence 18 7 2 0 41 15 5 1 3 33 22 37 39 4 Warfield FC 17 4 2 1 24 10 7 2 1 50 12 52 37 5 Wycliffe Wanderers 19 6 1 3 28 18 4 2 3 40 21 29 33 6 West reading 17 4 0 5 34 26 3 1 4 21 25 4 22 7 Greyfriars FC 19 4 1 4 25 20 3 0 7 14 39 -20 22 8 Bethel united 18 3 0 6 19 31 4 0 5 23 24 -13 21 9 reading Saints 19 2 1 7 17 47 2 0 7 16 35 -49 13 10 real World Corinthians 19 1 0 8 6 57 1 1 8 10 60 -101 7 11 vineyard FC 19 1 0 9 7 83 1 0 8 16 52 -112 6

Name Team Goals Ben Findlay Kerith Community 38 Neil Healy Wycliffe Wanderers 33 Jamie Carstairs West reading 22 toby Briggs tilehurst Albion 20 Carl Wyatt Warfield FC 19 James Hern Greyfriars FC 16 Barry Agar Kerith Community 16

LEAGUE TABLE AS oF APrIL 21 ToP SCorErS

LEAGUE rESULTS

CoMING UP

For THE LATEST oN THE LEAGUE, LoG oN To TVCFL.FooTIFY.CoM

v News from the Thames Valley Churches Football League

Findlay fires Kerith to Philmar Cup GloryHat trick nets Greyfriars the cup

Kerith Community Church celebrates winning the Philmar Cup. The team could complete a double if they continue to top the league. Pictures: Hannah Goodwin

Greyfriars 4 – 1 W reading

JAMES hERN scored a treble to ensure Greyfriars FC lifted the Lowery Trophy under the floodlights at Reading Town FC’s Scours Lane ground.

The match against West Reading CFC – played on Saturday, April 21 – was a closely contested game between two teams that are only separated by goal difference in the league.

West Reading started the brightest, retaining possession well and creating the best of the early chances, forcing Rob Tebby in the Greyfriars goal to tip a shot onto a post, but Greyfriars stuck to their task, defended well and soaked up pressure before counter-attacking, probing for openings.

It was Greyfriars who struck first, hern holding off his marker after half an hour to poke home a clever through ball after fine work by Jeff hallett and George Dodd on the right hand side.

After the interval, West Reading predictably raised their game but two swift Greyfriars goals knocked the wind out of their sails.

First, the move of the match, saw the ball shift from wing

to wing before hallett again produced a fine pass that the hard-working skipper John Ellaby finished with a first-time, right foot thunderbolt.

Minutes later, hern raced onto a George Dodd through ball to slot it first time under Mark Jones in the West Reading goal.

With a mountain to climb, West Reading made substitutions and continued to press forward, finally bringing themselves back into the match with 30 minutes to play.

Buoyed up by this, West Reading predictably pressed further and Greyfriars wobbled, scuffing clearances and gasping when Chris hayman’s deflected effort came back off the crossbar.

however, with 15 minutes left, Greyfriars finally cleared their lines for one last, critical time, hern again showing the greater determination and desire to head home and seal the 4-1 victory and put the Greyfriars contingent into raptures. v The TVCFL would like to thank the Chairman and staff of Reading Town FC for allowing the four teams and their supporters to make use of their facilities for the day.

CHRIS BARLTROP

Talents 21To advertise call 01932 246408 | www.xnmedia.co.uk |May 2012

Mark-Aaron welcomed

God has given each of us unique gifts and skills. Xn’s talents directory is an opportunity to connect local people with local businesses. For more on some of our advertisers, visit our website. We’re sure you’ll find these pages invaluable.

To advertise call 01932 246408

Place your advert in and reach Christian

buyers For details call 01932 246408

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eXPeRIeNCeD PIANO ACCOMPANISt available for music exams and recitals. Judith Creighton www.judithcreighton.co.uk or 07957 193366.

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v Family circlelIFe is an amazing journey. From our very first breaths to our last, we are told to live it to the full.

There are so many things we can celebrate and commemorate and sometimes telling everyone can be a tricky job. This is where Xn can help.

Our Family Circle page is designed for you to share your news. It could be the birth of a new

baby, an ordination or induction, a wedding, an anniversary, a baptism service or even a first communion.

Whatever the occasion, we’re here to help you share with the church family in Reading, Wokingham and Bracknell. Our skilled staff will help you choose the correct wording for your notice and you can be assured

it will be read in churches across the region.

We think this is an invaluable service you’ll treasure.

To place an announcement in Family Circle call 01932 246408

v Funeral directors

St MARY and St John’s Church in Finchampstead held a special service to welcome the Revd Mark-Aaron tisdale as its new Associate Priest.

Worship included music sung by of the combined choirs of St Mary & St John and St James’ Churches. During communion, they performed the beautiful composition Ave Verum.

After the service, which was held on Saturday, March 31, the church held a celebration buffet, which was attended by members of the two Finchampstead churches, as well as visitors from Mark-Aaron’s former parish of Clifton and Southill.

Mark-Aaron is pictured above with his son, Winston James, and wife Cigil (pronounced ‘Chill’).

NeW ReCtOR. The Institution and Induction of the Revd Luke Taylor as Rector of Binfield will take place at All Saints Church on Wednesday, June 13 at 7.30pm. All are welcome.

Calendar22 May 2012 | www.xnmedia.co.uk | To advertise email advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

Sunday, May 6BUCKleBURY – the Kiosk.

Launch of the telephone box book exchange. 4pm.

Bank Holiday Monday, May 7CROWtHORNe – St John’s

Church, Waterloo Road. May fair including children’s stalls, a visit from a real fire engine, a plant stall, displays by Yateley Morris Dancers, Sandhurst Community Band and more. 2pm-4.30pm. All welcome.

tuesday, May 8- Friday, May 11eSHeR – Sandown Park,

Portsmouth Road. Christian Resources Exhibition. 11am-6pm Tues. 10am-5pm Wed-Thurs. 10am-4.30pm Fri. Details: creonline.co.uk.

Wednesday, May 9ReADING – Wesley Methodist

Church, Queens Road. Churches In Reading Women’s Centre AGM plus talk by Sue Winyard on Christians Against Poverty. 2pm. Details: enquiries@cirwic.org.uk.

Saturday, May 12AlDeRMAStON – the Red

House, the Street. Plant swap in aid of St Mary’s, Aldermaston. Plants to swap or buy. 10.30am-noon.

BINFIelD – St Mark’s. Men’s monthly country walk round Binfield. 7.45am. Details: (01344) 421079.

BRACKNell – Kerith Community Church, Church Road. Activate Book Club discusses Shauna Niequist’s Bittersweet. 6pm. Details: Ope 01276 608979 or b3ope@hotmail.com.

CAVeRSHAM – St Andrew’s Church. The Roy Bailey Big Band in concert. 7.30pm. Details: (0118) 947 6067.

ReADING – All Saints Church Hall, Downshire Square. Quiz Night. Teams of four or five adults. £5, includes refreshments. In aid of church funds. 7.30pm. Details: Ron or Sylvia Cummins (0118) 957 5049.

SONNING – St Andrew’s Church. Jubilee Prom Concert with the Reading Blue Coat School Choir, St Andrew’s Junior and Adult

choirs and more. £10, in aid of Christian Aid. 7.30pm.

WOODleY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Spring Fair in aid of Tools For Self-Reliance. 10am-1pm.

Sunday, May 13BRIMPtON – Manor Farm.

St Peter’s Church, Brimpton presents a special rogation service for families. 10.45am.

CAVeRSHAM – St Peter’s Church. Churches Together Christian Aid service. 6.30pm.

StReAtleY – St Mary’s. Churches Together service to mark the start of Christian Aid week. 5pm.

WOODleY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road. Messy Church: fun, games, food and friendship. 4pm.

Monday, May 14ReADING – Communicare,

behind Wycliffe Baptist Church, Kings Road. Learn4Life (Reading Schools’ Christian Work Trust) prayer meeting. 7.30pm-9pm. Details: www.rscwt.org.

tuesday, May 15FINCHAMPSteAD – Baptist

Church. Watoto Children’s Choir in concert. 7pm. Free entry, donations welcomed. Details: (0118) 908 8160.

Wednesday, May 16CAlCOt – Kennet Valley Free

Church. Learn4Life (Reading Schools’ Christian Work Trust) Celebration. 7.30pm. Details: www.rscwt.org.

thursday, May 17BINFIelD – All Saints’ Church.

Ascension Day celebration: the church choir will sing at the top of the tower as dawn breaks. 6.30am. Followed by breakfast. All welcome.

GORING – the Canterbury Room, St thomas’ Church. Pick-A-Flick club for retired folk present Mrs Caldicot’s Cabbage War. 10.30am-2pm. £3. Transportation can be arranged on request. Details: Caroline Blamey 01491 873128.

CAVeRSHAM – St Andrew’s Church. Sung Eucharist for Ascension Day. 7.30pm.

Friday, May 18HARe HAtCH – Yeldall Manor.

Celebration service. 7.30pm.

Details: (0118) 940 1093.PURleY – the Barn,

Goosecroft Road. Quiz night with ploughman’s supper, bar and raffle. In aid of British Community Trust. 7pm. £10, including food. Details: (0118) 945 5365.

ReADING – Christ Church, Christchurch Road. Flower Festival to mark the church’s 150th anniversary, with stalls and interludes of music. Details: (0118) 931 3468.

SOUtHCOte – Southcote Mission Church in Southcote lane. Springboard,Open Space event. 7.30pm. Booking essential. Details: www.springboardreading.org.uk or email admin@springboardreading.org.uk.

Saturday, May 19BIX – Village Hall. Christian Aid

Walk choose 5, 10 or 15 miles in Oxfordshire countryside. Details: (0118) 978 3232.

BRACKNell – Kerith Community Church, Church Road. Girls’ quiz night. 7.30pm. £8 including fish ‘n ‘chip supper. Details: (01344) 862699 or www.kerith.co.uk.

CAVeRSHAM – Methodist Church, Gosbrook Road. Spring fair. 2pm-4pm.

ReADING – Christ Church, Christchurch Road. Flower Festival to mark the church’s 150th anniversary, with stalls and interludes of music. Details: (0118) 931 3468.

SANDHURSt – Sandhurst and Yateley Methodist Church, Scotland Hill. Brass band concert with the Charles Church Camberley Band. £5. 7.39pm. Details: Robert Godden (01252) 872503.

SANDHURSt – St George’s Church. Quiz night in aid of Christian Aid. 7pm. £8, includes fish ‘n’ chip supper. Booking essential for catering. Details: (01344) 762407 or Kegferretfan@aol.com.

SONNING – Reading Blue Coat School. Olympic Family event hosted by Rading Christian Men’s Group.

MAIDeNHeAD – St Mary’s Church, St Mary’s Close, High Street. South Central Women’s Day: Treasuring Christ in the Challenge of Today, a chance to hear God’s Word with women from across the region 10am-4pm. Details: www.thegoodbook.co.uk/scwd2012.

SONNING COMMON – St Michael’s Church. Quiz night and social. Details: (0118) 972 3418.

Sunday, May 20ReADING – Christ Church,

Christchurch Road. Celebration service with the Bishop of Reading to mark the church’s 150th anniversary. 10am. Flower Festival to mark the church’s 150th anniversary. Details: (0118) 931 3468.

ROtHeRFIelD PePPARD – All Saints’ Church. Celebration service for the 350th anniversary of the Book of Common Prayer. 6.30pm.

tuesday, May 22BINFIelD – St Mark’s Church.

The Silver Service: short service followed by a hot lunch. Noon. Details: Margareta hawkins (01344) 411681.

thursday, May 24SWAllOWFIelD – All Saints’

Church. Jubilee Churches Festival preview evening including a quarter peel by the bell-ringers, short talks and cheese and wine.

Saturday, May 26BINFIelD – St Mark’s. Men’s

Breakfast: New Archbishop –Does It Matter? From 7.30am. Followed by spring clean for the church. 9am. Details: (01344) 421079.

ReADING – the Warehouse, Cumberland Road. Summer Fayre in aid of the Jo Jones Leukaemia Fund and Royal Berkshire hospital Special Care Baby Unit. 12.30pm-4.30pm.

SONNING – C of e Primary School, liguge Way. Car boot sale. 8am-1pm. £5 per car, £7 per van, entry 50p. Details/book pitch: Vicki Emmett. PTA Chair, 07916 177529 or vickimotwo@hotmail.com.

SWAllOWFIelD – All Saints’ Church. Jubilee Churches Festival including a Mummers’ Play, afternoon tea and more.

WOODleY – St James, Kingfisher Drive. Barn dance with buffet supper. 7pm £7.50, children £3. Family ticket £20. Details: (0118) 966 2568.

Sunday, May 27BINFIelD – St Mark’s Church.

Binfield Singers’ and Adevntus Domini Diamond Jubilee Concert. 7.30pm. £5, £4 concessions.

eNGleFIelD – estate. Berkshire Country Fayre with craft and food stalls, children’s entertainment, fun fair, dog show, classic cars and more. 9am-5pm. Free parking.

SWAllOWFIelD – All Saints’ Church. Jubilee Churches Festival including a Family Songs of Praise, open house and an afternoon tea.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s. West Forest Sinfonia in concert. 7.30pm. £15, £12 concessions, under 18s and students £1. Details: (0118) 933 2435.

YAteleY – the thythings, Yateley Green. Churches Together service to mark Pentecost, includes live drama, dance and songs, kite making and flying. 3pm. All welcome.

thursday, May 31CHARVIl – Village Hall, Park

lane. Twyford Singers fundraising bridge drive. 1.30pm-5pm. £28. Bring your own playing cards. Details: Sue Thomas (0118) 934 2406.

Jubilee Saturday, June 2BRIMPtON – School Field.

Jubilee celebrations including fancy dress contest, activities, live music, beer tent, raffle and hog roast. Free entry, £5 for hog roast. From 3pm.

ReADING – All Saints Church Hall, Downshire Square. Jumble sale in aid of parish funds and Christian Aid. 1.30pm.

KNOWl HIll – St Peter’s. Book sale. 10am-noon. Details: 01628 825288.

Jubilee Sunday, June 3AlDeRMAStON – Cofe

Primary School. Diamond Jubilee celevrations including live screening of the Queen’s Procession, hog roast, Songs of Praise, fancy dress contest. £1. 10.45am-6pm.

COleY PARK – Community Fun Day. From noon.

SONNING – St Andrew’s Church. Parish service of thanksgiving for the Jubilee. 10.30am.

WOODleY – Memorial Ground, Headley Road. Diamond Jubilee Praise In The Park. 11.30am.

Jubilee Holiday Monday, June 4SONNING – St Andrew’s

Church. Flower Festival for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

twyford – St Mary’s Church, Station Road. Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration, 4.30pm-dusk. Big screen live presentation of the Jubilee Concert, straight from The Mall, barbecue, beer tent, Pimms Bar, singers, clown and lighting of beacon on church tower as part of the international beacon chain. Donations to Global hearts, (Feed the Children) Charity. Details: (0118) 934 0642.

Jubilee Holiday tuesday, June 5SONNING – St Andrew’s

Church. Flower Festival for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

ReADING – english Martyrs Catholic Church, liebenrood Road. Barbecue and entertainement to celebrate the Jubilee.

PURleY ON tHAMeS – the Barn. Thames Vale

Singers present a Diamond Jubilee Conert including Mendelssohn’s hymn of Praise and Land Of hope And Glory. £9, £7 concession. 7.30pm. Details: tickets@thamesvalesingers.org.uk or Jean (0118) 984 2563 or Margaret (0118) 962 4425.

Saturday, June 9SWAllOWFIelD – All Saints

Church. Summer fete. Afternoon.

CAVeRSHAM – Our lady and St Anne Church Hall, South View Avenue. Sing-A-Long night. Details: (0118) 947 1787.

Wednesday, June 13BINFIelD – All Saints’ Church.

Installation of the Revd Luke Taylor as Rector of Binfield. 7.30pm.

Saturday, June 16WOODleY – Baptist Church,

Hurricane Way. Pete Evens’ ordination. 3pm.

Friday, June 22BRACKNell – Kerith

Community Church, Church Road. REAL Women’s Conference. Evening events, continues tomorrow. Details: (01344) 862699 or www.kerith.co.uk.

Saturday, June 23BINFIelD – St Mark’s. Men’s

Breakfast: Why is sport so important for men? From 7.30am. Details: (01344) 421079.

BRACKNell – Kerith Community Church, Church Road. REAL Women’s Conference. All day. Weekend £30. Details: (01344) 862699 or www.kerith.co.uk.

Saturday, July 14CROWtHORNe – St John’s

Church, Waterloo Road. Flower Festival: Best of British. 10am-6pm. All welcome. In aid of Coats and hope Zone.

HARe HAtCH – Yeldall Manor. Annual open day – strawberry tea, thanksgiving service, stalls and more. Details: (0118) 940 1093.

Sunday, July 15CROWtHORNe – St John’s

Church, Waterloo Road. Flower Festival: Best of British. Noon-6pm. Songs of Praise. 6.30pm. All welcome. In aid of Coats and hope Zone.

WOODleY – Baptist Church, Hurricane Way. Southern Counties Baptist Association event with Chris Duffet, president of the Baptist Union of Great Britain.

v What’s onthese are some special events taking place in churches over the next month. A full events calendar, complete with listings for special church services and local activities can be found at xnmedia.co.uk.

You can also submit your own events by sending an email to editor@xnmedia.co.uk

Puzzles/reader offer 23To advertise call 01932 246408 | www.xnmedia.co.uk |May 2012A

NSW

ErS

Xn is published by Xn Mediac/o Abbey Baptist Church,

Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BE

www.xnmedia.co.ukTwitter: @xnmedia

editor & publisher Phil Creighton

editor@xnmedia.co.uk

DistributionJudith Creighton

judith@xnmedia.co.uk

ContributorsMichael Penny, Jeremy Sharpe, Steve Vaughan-Turner, John

Madeley, Richard Becher, John Chilvers, Ken Perrett, Christine

thanks to Michael Penny, Alan Magness, Louise Cole, Laura Blackburn

Finlay, Paul Burnish, RCN, Richard hughes, Mary

Brockington, Colin Preston, Matt hearn, Ann-Marie Paterson, Sharon Elliott,

Christine Joyce

AdvertisingRichard Roper, Roperpenberthy

01932 246408 advertising@xnmedia.co.uk

Printed by Trinity Mirror Reading

Xn is published monthly by Xn Media. ISSN 2049-4971

The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers.

Every care is taken to ensure that the contents of the magazine are accurate but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors.

While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements, the publishers cannot accept any responsibility for any resulting unsatisfactory transactions.

They will, however, investigate any written complaints.

Xn conforms to the newspaper industry’s voluntary Code of Practice, administered by the Press Complaints Commission. If you feel we have made an error in a report, or have fallen below our usual high standards, please write in the first instance to: Phil Creighton, editor, Xn, c/o Abbey Baptist Church, Reading RG1 3BE. If the editor is unable to resolve your complaint, it will be passed to Xn’s independent Council of Reference for arbitration.

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So, if the Holy Spirit gave ‘em language at Pentecost, can I hav’ French, cos I got

the GCSE oral next Tuesday!

Steve Vaughan-Turner www.drawingfromexperience.blogspot.com

Dare To Walk In Power, Authority And Lovethe fifth title in Suzanne Pillan’s Dare to series, this book dares you to enter into the miracle ministry of God by simple faith and obedience to the Word of God. It focuses on the Protection of God, the Authority of Jesus and the love and Grace of God. Suzanne’s ministry supports over 200 Step out in Faith Bible schools and five orphanages.

RRP £7.99, Xn price £5.99

Beloved AfricanJohn Hammond was one of Rhodesia’s foremost educators of the black population. Born in a pole and dagga hut and brought up speaking Ndebele, he educated a generation of children so they could run a modern country. John’s faith gave him motivation that so impressed people that he was called ‘our father – the great teacher, loved by all Africans’.

RRP £11.99, Xn price £8.99

From Chairbound To Heaven BoundJean Neil was severely abused in both her family life and in children’s homes in Jersey, and confined to a wheelchair after a car crash left her paralysed below the waist. But she ws instantaneously and miraculously healed on March 12th 1988. Her book is written to build faith that however hard your circumstances nothing is too hard for God.

RRP £7.99, Xn price £5.99

The Most Famous Book in the World – a Celebration of the King james Bible twenty two well-known personalities; clergy, politicians, media and sports personalities, scientists and businessmen, from across the spectrum of churchmanship, reveal their favourite Bible passage.

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Mummy, I Can’t Wait To Go To Heaventhe story of the life, faith and death at the age of 11 of James Hurst, as told by his mother Sadie. this is a moving testimony to the faithfulness and goodness of God in the most trying of circumstances – the long illness and suffering of a child. the story will inspire individuals and families who find themselves in similar circumstances.

RRP £7.99, Xn price £5.99

Women in the Bible, Miracle Births, Heroic Deeds, Bloodlust and jealousyFrom Abi to Zipporah, eve to the Whore of Babylon, this book tells the stories of the Women of the Bible. It looks at the meaning of their name, and explores what is known about them and the relevance and importance of their life in the wider Bible story. the beautiful gift book is illustrated and is a mine of information.

RRP £11.99, Xn price £8.99

v Xn shopevery month, we’ll put together a range of special offers and discounted books specially for you. Here’s our latest selection. look out for another collection of great titles next issue!

To order, call 01932 246408 state code RXn001to order your books and claim your discount telephone 01932 246408 and state code RXn001.

Alternatively write with a cheque to RoperPenberthy Publishing ltd, Springfield House, 23 Oatlands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey Kt13 9lZ or email grace@roperpenberthy.co.uk. Post and packing £1.50 per book, orders over £10 post free.

25% offfor readers

Foreword by Ed HardingDare To

WALK IN POWER,AUTHORITY AND LOVE

SUZANNE PILLANS

Step Out in Faith Bible schools have grown to 206 with over 20,000 students and 5 orphanages with 1,857 orphans.

This was not through Suzanne’s vision or planning, but a result of hearing and obeying God in prayer.

This book teaches on the power, authority and love Suzanne has received from God and the Bible that has enabled this work to be done.

This is the fi fth book in the ‘Dare To’ series. Suzanne lives with her husband and family

at the Standlake Equestrian Centre and ranch in Oxfordshire, England.

They run a riding school for a living and the ranch to raise funds for the ministry.

They also travel extensively, speaking at conferences and crusades in many countries and running Bible schools and orphanages.

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“Suzanne is a remarkable woman, simply being obedient to the call of God, learning and teaching biblical principles and above all, living in faith to believe God for big things.” - Ed Harding, evangelist and author

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26 –28th July 2012Rivermead Leisure Centre,Reading, Berkshire

This conference is about bringing “Heaven down to Earth”. We believe that we are poised for amove of God and are asking our friends locally and nationally to come together, to stand with usand see His Kingdom come.

Book online at: www.barnabasengland.org

Coming to the conferenceNational and local leaders will be standing together to see the Lord come in greater measure uponour city of Reading and in our land. To find out more about each leader attending the conferenceplease visit our website. www.barnabasengland.org.

Paul and Heather Garratt.Leaders of Radiant

Rachel Owen.Leader of Seekers.

Nicci Whittaker.Leader of Creche

Ministering to Youth and Children

Dr Michael Maiden.Leader of Church forthe Nations

Christen Forster.Leader of‘Supranatural’ Life

Billy Kennedy. Leaderof Pioneer Network

EvangelistDon Double

John Noble. FormerLeader ofCharismata

Tracey Dolding.Barnabas WorshipLeader

Yinka Oyekan.Leader of Barnabas

Rob Gardiner.Leader of NetworkVineyard

Pat Whittaker. Leaderof Jubilee Fellowship

Dr Hugh Osgood.Leader of CICInternational

Dr Joel Thomas.Leader of COGWWM

Chris Cole. Leader ofCross Rhythms

Keith Dolding. Leaderof Barnabas

Neville Hollands.Leader of LifeSpring

John Manwell.Chairman of Togetherfor the Harvest,Liverpool

Rev GrenvilleOverton.Team LeaderSouthern CountiesBaptist Association.

Would you love to see the UK impacted byanother move of God? God has promised thatwhere cities, towns and villages will receiveHim, He will come. We feel the Lord has givenus a vision of renewal that is coming to thenation. This renewal is about God’s sons anddaughters having a fresh encounter with Him

Eric Whittaker.Leader of JubileeFellowship

Conference hosted by:Barnabas Fellowship of Churches,LifeSpring church, Network Vineyard andThe Globe.Supported by:Reading Christian Network and Charismata

26 –28th July 2012Rivermead Leisure Centre,Reading, Berkshire

This conference is about bringing “Heaven down to Earth”. We believe that we are poised for amove of God and are asking our friends locally and nationally to come together, to stand with usand see His Kingdom come.

Book online at: www.barnabasengland.org

Coming to the conferenceNational and local leaders will be standing together to see the Lord come in greater measure uponour city of Reading and in our land. To find out more about each leader attending the conferenceplease visit our website. www.barnabasengland.org.

Paul and Heather Garratt.Leaders of Radiant

Rachel Owen.Leader of Seekers.

Nicci Whittaker.Leader of Creche

Ministering to Youth and Children

Dr Michael Maiden.Leader of Church forthe Nations

Christen Forster.Leader of‘Supranatural’ Life

Billy Kennedy. Leaderof Pioneer Network

EvangelistDon Double

John Noble. FormerLeader ofCharismata

Tracey Dolding.Barnabas WorshipLeader

Yinka Oyekan.Leader of Barnabas

Rob Gardiner.Leader of NetworkVineyard

Pat Whittaker. Leaderof Jubilee Fellowship

Dr Hugh Osgood.Leader of CICInternational

Dr Joel Thomas.Leader of COGWWM

Chris Cole. Leader ofCross Rhythms

Keith Dolding. Leaderof Barnabas

Neville Hollands.Leader of LifeSpring

John Manwell.Chairman of Togetherfor the Harvest,Liverpool

Rev GrenvilleOverton.Team LeaderSouthern CountiesBaptist Association.

Would you love to see the UK impacted byanother move of God? God has promised thatwhere cities, towns and villages will receiveHim, He will come. We feel the Lord has givenus a vision of renewal that is coming to thenation. This renewal is about God’s sons anddaughters having a fresh encounter with Him

Eric Whittaker.Leader of JubileeFellowship

Conference hosted by:Barnabas Fellowship of Churches,LifeSpring church, Network Vineyard andThe Globe.Supported by:Reading Christian Network and Charismata

26 –28th July 2012Rivermead Leisure Centre,Reading, Berkshire

This conference is about bringing “Heaven down to Earth”. We believe that we are poised for amove of God and are asking our friends locally and nationally to come together, to stand with usand see His Kingdom come.

Book online at: www.barnabasengland.org

Coming to the conferenceNational and local leaders will be standing together to see the Lord come in greater measure uponour city of Reading and in our land. To find out more about each leader attending the conferenceplease visit our website. www.barnabasengland.org.

Paul and Heather Garratt.Leaders of Radiant

Rachel Owen.Leader of Seekers.

Nicci Whittaker.Leader of Creche

Ministering to Youth and Children

Dr Michael Maiden.Leader of Church forthe Nations

Christen Forster.Leader of‘Supranatural’ Life

Billy Kennedy. Leaderof Pioneer Network

EvangelistDon Double

John Noble. FormerLeader ofCharismata

Tracey Dolding.Barnabas WorshipLeader

Yinka Oyekan.Leader of Barnabas

Rob Gardiner.Leader of NetworkVineyard

Pat Whittaker. Leaderof Jubilee Fellowship

Dr Hugh Osgood.Leader of CICInternational

Dr Joel Thomas.Leader of COGWWM

Chris Cole. Leader ofCross Rhythms

Keith Dolding. Leaderof Barnabas

Neville Hollands.Leader of LifeSpring

John Manwell.Chairman of Togetherfor the Harvest,Liverpool

Rev GrenvilleOverton.Team LeaderSouthern CountiesBaptist Association.

Would you love to see the UK impacted byanother move of God? God has promised thatwhere cities, towns and villages will receiveHim, He will come. We feel the Lord has givenus a vision of renewal that is coming to thenation. This renewal is about God’s sons anddaughters having a fresh encounter with Him

Eric Whittaker.Leader of JubileeFellowship

Conference hosted by:Barnabas Fellowship of Churches,LifeSpring church, Network Vineyard andThe Globe.Supported by:Reading Christian Network and Charismata

26 –28th July 2012Rivermead Leisure Centre,Reading, Berkshire

This conference is about bringing “Heaven down to Earth”. We believe that we are poised for amove of God and are asking our friends locally and nationally to come together, to stand with usand see His Kingdom come.

Book online at: www.barnabasengland.org

Coming to the conferenceNational and local leaders will be standing together to see the Lord come in greater measure uponour city of Reading and in our land. To find out more about each leader attending the conferenceplease visit our website. www.barnabasengland.org.

Paul and Heather Garratt.Leaders of Radiant

Rachel Owen.Leader of Seekers.

Nicci Whittaker.Leader of Creche

Ministering to Youth and Children

Dr Michael Maiden.Leader of Church forthe Nations

Christen Forster.Leader of‘Supranatural’ Life

Billy Kennedy. Leaderof Pioneer Network

EvangelistDon Double

John Noble. FormerLeader ofCharismata

Tracey Dolding.Barnabas WorshipLeader

Yinka Oyekan.Leader of Barnabas

Rob Gardiner.Leader of NetworkVineyard

Pat Whittaker. Leaderof Jubilee Fellowship

Dr Hugh Osgood.Leader of CICInternational

Dr Joel Thomas.Leader of COGWWM

Chris Cole. Leader ofCross Rhythms

Keith Dolding. Leaderof Barnabas

Neville Hollands.Leader of LifeSpring

John Manwell.Chairman of Togetherfor the Harvest,Liverpool

Rev GrenvilleOverton.Team LeaderSouthern CountiesBaptist Association.

Would you love to see the UK impacted byanother move of God? God has promised thatwhere cities, towns and villages will receiveHim, He will come. We feel the Lord has givenus a vision of renewal that is coming to thenation. This renewal is about God’s sons anddaughters having a fresh encounter with Him

Eric Whittaker.Leader of JubileeFellowship

Conference hosted by:Barnabas Fellowship of Churches,LifeSpring church, Network Vineyard andThe Globe.Supported by:Reading Christian Network and Charismata

26 –28th July 2012Rivermead Leisure Centre,Reading, Berkshire

This conference is about bringing “Heaven down to Earth”. We believe that we are poised for amove of God and are asking our friends locally and nationally to come together, to stand with usand see His Kingdom come.

Book online at: www.barnabasengland.org

Coming to the conferenceNational and local leaders will be standing together to see the Lord come in greater measure uponour city of Reading and in our land. To find out more about each leader attending the conferenceplease visit our website. www.barnabasengland.org.

Paul and Heather Garratt.Leaders of Radiant

Rachel Owen.Leader of Seekers.

Nicci Whittaker.Leader of Creche

Ministering to Youth and Children

Dr Michael Maiden.Leader of Church forthe Nations

Christen Forster.Leader of‘Supranatural’ Life

Billy Kennedy. Leaderof Pioneer Network

EvangelistDon Double

John Noble. FormerLeader ofCharismata

Tracey Dolding.Barnabas WorshipLeader

Yinka Oyekan.Leader of Barnabas

Rob Gardiner.Leader of NetworkVineyard

Pat Whittaker. Leaderof Jubilee Fellowship

Dr Hugh Osgood.Leader of CICInternational

Dr Joel Thomas.Leader of COGWWM

Chris Cole. Leader ofCross Rhythms

Keith Dolding. Leaderof Barnabas

Neville Hollands.Leader of LifeSpring

John Manwell.Chairman of Togetherfor the Harvest,Liverpool

Rev GrenvilleOverton.Team LeaderSouthern CountiesBaptist Association.

Would you love to see the UK impacted byanother move of God? God has promised thatwhere cities, towns and villages will receiveHim, He will come. We feel the Lord has givenus a vision of renewal that is coming to thenation. This renewal is about God’s sons anddaughters having a fresh encounter with Him

Eric Whittaker.Leader of JubileeFellowship

Conference hosted by:Barnabas Fellowship of Churches,LifeSpring church, Network Vineyard andThe Globe.Supported by:Reading Christian Network and Charismata