Diary Dates July 2018 1st Coads Green Open Air Service (see p.21) 3rd Communion service with prayers for healing, Dingley Hall 10.15am. 8th Action for Children buffet lunch, Central 12 noon onwards. (see p.20) 10th League of Prayer Dingley Hall 7.30pm. Spkr: Mr Mike Stearn. 12th Communion Service at Cedar Grange 14th Tabitha’s Blooming Great Tea Party, Trebullett Hall, 2 -5pm. 15th Circuit Home Missions Event Central 4pm. The Magazine of the 22nd Trebullett Chapel Sunday Lunch 12.45pm onwards. (see p.22) Launceston Area

29th Pipers Pool walk & cream tea. Methodist Church

July/August 2018 August 2018 9th Service at Cedar Grange Edition 181 13 -17 Holiday Club at Central (see p.14) 14th League of Prayer, Dingley Hall 7.30pm.

www.lamc.org.uk Your Circuit website - have you checked it out recently?

The circuit website at www.lamc.org.uk is a great way for the Launceston area to keep up to date with everything that is going on in the circuit’s churches and chapels. To take advantage of the site please send items to David Rogerson, Glebe House, , Launceston PL15 9PP (01579 370412). Better still, if you have access to email please send them to [email protected]

Editorial Team: Viv and Evelyn Sandercock, Mary Cole, Marion Allen, Catherine Jones -Bastard and Pauline Daniel. Collator: Richard Wright. Production & Distribution Assistance: David & Joanna Harley, Leighton Penhale and Sally Harvey. All articles for the September issue to the Circuit Office no later than 15th August2018. Items submitted after this date may be withheld or used in a subsequent edition. Please ensure items are clearly marked for Spotlight and include contact details. Whilst every effort is made to print forwarded material, its inclusion cannot be guaranteed. All items are printed at editorial team discretion.

Websites: www.lamc.org.uk www.central -methodist.org.uk Launceston Area Methodist Circuit - Registered Charity no: 1138314

Contact Information: Revd Malcolm Jones Tel: 01566 776603. Email: [email protected] Revd Jo Smart Tel: 01566 782921 Email: [email protected] Pioneer Sam Beazley Tel: 07540 107655 Email: [email protected] Circuit Office, Richard Wright, Dingley Hall, Castle Street, Launceston, PL15 8BA. Tel.: 01566 772797 Email: [email protected] Office open Tue.and Thur 9.30 am to 1pm

24 1 L R B E July 2018 Mon 2nd Calstock Village & viaduct view £8 Wed 4th Shopping trip to £14 Thur 5th Delabole Slate Quarry tour & stop for lunch £10 Tue 10th Cotehele Quay for Restful Refreshments £8 Thur 12th Camel Valley Vineyard tour Nr £10 Tue 17th £12 Wed 18th Lunch at Cornishman Inn -Tintagel £8 Thur 19th Free concert Lanson Town Band 7 -9pm local pickup £3 Thur 26th Eden Project (Hangloose Skywire) £12 Sat 28th Sterts Theatre “Oliver” matinee show £8 Sun 29th Lunch at Borough Arms Bodmin £10 Tue 31st Mystery Trip. A delve into Devon £10 Dear Friends August 2018 Wed 1st Shopping trip to Truro £14 In September, Andi and I will be cycling part of the Camino de Thur 2nd Free concert Lanson Town Band 7 -9pm local pick up £3 Santiago in celebration of my 50th birthday. We will be Sun 5th Steam & Cream -Bodmin & Wenford Steam Railway £10 starting in Leon and travelling 315 km until we reach Santiago in Tue 7th ‘Rustic Tea Rooms’ Northcott Mouth £8 Spain, the place where St James is buried. Mon 13th Charlestown Nr £12 Tue 14th Tamar Otter Park, North Petherwin £6 St James the Great, as he was called to distinguish himself from Wed 15th Lunch at River Life Bude £8 James the Son of Alphaues and James the brother of Jesus, was Thur 16th Aviation Heritage Centre Nr £12 the first apostle to be martyred in 44AD. He was executed by Sat 18th Plymouth Gin Distillery tour £10 the sword by Herod Agrippa and consequently his head was Tue 21st Callestic Farm (ice cream) & Goonhavern Gdn Centre £14 buried under the altar in the cathedral of St James in the Thur 23rd St Just in Roseland Church & £15 Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem, whereas the rest of his body Tue 28th Kit Hill and a cuppa at Louis café £8 found its final resting place in Santiago. Wed 29th Lanhydrock House & Gardens (NT) - Bodmin £10

James was the brother of John (the beloved apostle of Christ) Phone 01566 777960 10am to 12noon Mon to Fri. or leave message. and was one of the first disciples to join Jesus. He was also one Tuesday morning at Central Methodist Church Hall 9.30 -11.30am. of the inner group of disciples who accompanied Jesus and Email: [email protected] Facebook: Little Red Bus Launceston witnessed the transfiguration. It is believed that after Jesus’ death and resurrection, James spread the Gospel across Israel and the Roman Kingdom taking God’s word to the Iberian Musical Evening with Ladies Choir Peninsula, which includes Spain. and their guests I am continuously in awe of those first disciples who had the strength, courage and resolve to take the Gospel out into the The Burraton Boys world through the help and guidance of God’s Holy Spirit. I am Saturday 7th July at 7.30pm also extremely grateful that they did, for we would not have the Burraton Church Saltash Bible that we have today if they were not determined to spread God’s Word and fulfil Jesus’ Great Commission ‘to go and make Tickets £5 available from Piglets, Fore St, Saltash or on the evening of the concert at Burraton Church disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey Proceeds of this Concert will go to: everything I have commanded you.’ Farming Community Network

2 23 COADS GREEN METHODIST CHAPEL Andi and I will be raising money for Bible Society as we cycle “Our mission is to provide accessible worship and to nurture disciples, along St James’ Way. Bible Society is a charity, which is devoted so that as we meet the needs of others, in our chapel and our community, to translating, publishing and distributing the Bible, in effect we witness to God’s love.” continuing to spread God’s Word. All their efforts are driven by The award winning film LION tells the moving account of a five -year old Indian one conviction; they believe that when people engage with the boy who gets lost on the streets of Calcutta, thousands of kilometres from Bible lives can be changed for the good. We hope that our cycle home. He survives many challenges before being adopted by a couple in helps to change peoples lives by creating awareness of the Bible Australia. 25 years later, he sets out to find his lost family. Society and the work they do; by encouraging people to pray for all the good work that they do, such as initiatives like “Open the Whilst it is not heralded as a Christian movie it addresses the importance of adoption and how it is one of the most loving and generous acts any human Book” and “Bible Month”; and by raising money to support this can perform. Of course we are reminded that God chose to adopt each one of cause. If you would like to know more, or even donate to our cycle us into his family (Rom 8:15). So why not come along and join us on Sunday ride fundraising, then please contact me by email at 8th July at Coads Green Chapel at 2:30 pm to watch this moving [email protected] or phone 01566 782921. Alternatively you can portrayal…and don’t forget your tissues! go to www.justgiving.com and search for “Johanna’s 50th Birthday Challenge.” Many thanks and God bless TREBULLETT Jo METHODIST CHURCH SUNDAY LUNCH 22ND JULY 2018 SERVED FROM 12.45 PM PRICE £10.00 per person FAMILY TICKET AT THE DOOR

C M July 2018 3rd Central 10am -12noon hosted by Cats Protection 4th Lifton 10.30am 4th Trebullett 10.30 -12 noon 11th Polyphant with Book Club 10.00 -11.30am. 10th Central 10am -12noon hosted by Polyphant 14th South Petherwin 10.30 -12 noon 17th Central 10am -12noon hosted by Boyton Church 24th Central 10am -12noon hosted by St Thomas Church August 2018 1st Trebullett 10.30 -12 noon 7th Central 10am -12noon hosted by Children’s Society 8th Polyphant with Book Club 10.00 -11.30am. 11th South Petherwin 10.30 -12 noon 14th Central 10am -12noon hosted by 21st Central 10am -12noon hosted by Lions 28th Central 10am -12noon hosted by Christian Aid

22 3 C A N Christian Aid Week took place from May 12 -19th and on May12th the annual Boyton Churches Coffee Morning was hosted this year by Boyton Parish Church at the village hall, with a team of volunteers hosted by Jenny Smith and friends. The event was well supported by local people and visitors from beyond, with a good selection of fun competitions, sales of homemade cakes, plants etc which added to the good atmosphere. Ruth Allin and her team from Boyton Methodist, provided a selection of drinks and refreshments, enjoyed by all. Thanks to all involved in preparation and support on the day the total raised was £430. On Sunday May 13th the service at Central Methodist Church was conducted T B by Rev Malcolm Jones. The focus was on the work of C/Aid in Haiti. An excellent video showed us how Vilia was able to shelter 45 people in her On 17th June, the church celebrated its 2nd birthday. The Sunday morning hurricane proof house built by Christian Aid partner Koral. Pauline Smith gave service gave thanks and glory to God through adult baptism and child an update on the ecumenical prayer initiative “Thy Kingdom Come” and told dedication, partly in the church and partly on the beach with BBQ, games us that Central Methodist would be open on Tuesday mornings for public and a lot of fun. prayer weekly from 10am -12mid -day each Tuesday morning in the Summer. As the Bridge Church continues to think on the theme of ‘family’ this year, Following the service a Soup & Sweet Lunch was held in the hall at Central there’s been a particular focus on building friendships and strengthening Methodist Launceston. Thanks to the combined efforts Margaret Baker and relationships through the ministries that we organise across the days and Jenny Cook and a team of volunteers who did a wonderful job in providing a weeks of every month. great selection of food. also to those who supported us on the day we raised Not to be outdone by the women, who meet once a month for ‘Chosen’, the £889.10. Presently the income for Christian Aid Week is as follows. – men have begun to meet for breakfast every 1st Saturday of the month, 8 Boyton Churches C/Mng & Bring & Buy £430.00 10am in the Talking Donkey Café. A chance to build friendships over a cracking fry up. Central Meth Soup & Sweet Lunch £889.10 Bridge Kids continue to have fun in church every Sunday morning and every Church Collections £466.50 - Monday for ‘Connect’, the after school club. Family film nights, on the 2nd Total £1785.60 Friday of each month are a great way to wind down the week with popcorn and a good film before bed. The youth and others from the circuit are looking forward to joining 8000 other teenagers at Soul Survivor again this August. This annual celebration has never ceased to be a life changing experience of worship, teaching and Coads Green Open Air Service friendship building for every individual. Sunday 1st July at 6.30pm And for those of an older generation who love to sing along to the Hollywood With musical classics, The Musical Cinema Club meet every 2nd Tuesday of the Eric Rowland month at 2pm in the church. Youthful Spirit Callington Town Band All these social gatherings are completely open for anyone to come and join in in. Our aim is to see God’s Kingdom come through building relationships with Coads Green Sports Field our friends and neighbours in our community. Look on the bridgechurchuk.org website for more details. Jo Parsons

4 21 O J T ‘Our Janet’ because Janet Barriball was a friend to everyone. She had a Homebirds, night –crows, early birds –and others. family which was very important to her but also her door and her heart was always open to anyone who chose to call. She was a part of the community at When you set up a 24 hour marathon you need all sorts. As a part of a St Giles being a school governor for many years firstly when her children National campaign of a 24 hour marathon prayer, everyone has a place. Rev were at the school and later following the recovery from a serious car Teresa Folland organised our Launceston Parish`s efforts. We were the first accident such was her charisma that she was invited back and became chair church on the rota, beginning at 10 am. The other churches of St Mary`s, St. of the governors. Thomas and St Stephens followed on, in the days after. Each church worked out their own timetable. Some, for various reasons, prayed at home, The car accident she had in 2000 proved to be a major trauma in her life but whilst, those who came to church were encouraged to pray over a wide even in the hospital bed she managed to reach out in love to people in the variety of subjects. The afternoon service was lead by Rev. Alison Hardy. hospital, she was an encourager to those in the ward and those who came to Whilst an idea was to pray for 5 items in many categories, it did not restrict visit her. Following her accident she studied and became a local preacher in the range covered. It is surprising, when one concentrates, how wide a 2009, a role in which she displayed a natural talent, she said it as it was. It range of needs. praise and thanksgiving can come into people`s minds. Rev was her ability to lead people in worship and prayer for which we will all have Teresa, after the whole event was full of praise of those who made it such a fond and enduring memories of her. success. That included all those who kept vigil through the night, and the

Janet’s impact on people’s lives was admirably displayed by the fact that 25 early hours of the morning. visitors arrived in one day to see her in hospital towards the end of her life Safari Supper - the team are beginning to plan! Booking is essential —please. what an amazing lady, our lives are richer for having known her. Thursday September 6th —Dorothy [86324] Ann [775168] Sarah [880244]

Anon Mavis [86251] Terry Jones A C For nearly 150 years, Action for Children has been looking after children and young people in need of support. S P They have been able to do that because of support like ours. 150 years is a long time but we want to make sure they we can continue to be there for Prayer Meeting report children and families when needed. Since February 2016 a small number of people from South Petherwin Last year we raised £1,019.50 from the lunch on Action for Children Day Methodist Chapel have been meeting on a regular basis to pray for the life of and a total of £1934.20 for the whole of 2017. the church and the community that it serves. We have been seeking God’s guidance in how we can be effective Christians as well as praying for known This year the lunch is on 8th July at Central which we hope will be just as situations within our chapel and community. These prayer meetings have well supported. developed and were later tasked with considering our churches growth plan Please make a note of the date and try to support by donation, by providing and our mission statement. To assist us with our discussions and prayers we help or food on the day. have been working through ‘A Discipling Presence’ workbook, which helps to promote and sustain an effective Christian presence in rural communities and

Hope to see you there, Sunday 8th July from 12 noon onwards at Central. is produced by the Methodist Church. We have found the book to be an excellent resource, as well as it affirming the ideas that have come out of our ACTION FOR CHILDREN prayer meetings. We would like to share some of these ideas with you and

BUFFET LUNCH the learning we have acquired. Central Methodist Church We recognise that for every community to be whole, balanced and healthy it needs to have at its heart a committed group of Christians who are willing to Sunday 8th July 2018 serve and embrace different ways of reaching our communities. In addition,

From 12 noon onwards we need to see where God is already working and join in. This means getting Price: Adults £8.00 Children £4.00 to know our community. We have therefore explored the joys and challenges

20 5 of living in our community, and surrounding villages, by referring to a recent several cases the present lay leaders are only the latest of several generations survey that was published in the parish magazine as well as talking with the of their families to serve the churches. While there is a determination to head teacher at the local primary school. We recognised that there was a need maintain the Christian work for as long as humanly possible, they recognise to bring people together, to create greater links with our brothers and sisters at that, regrettable though it be, modern society's priorities do not currently the Anglican Church and to provide opportunities to serve those who feel apparently include the acceptance of Jesus Christ as guide and example. We isolated. The workbook gave us lots of examples and helped stimulate ideas as must surely continue to support the local lay members as well as our ordained well as affirming the idea ‘Tea & Toast’. ministers and deacons in their combined endeavours, while praying for a revival of Christian witness. Tea & Toast has been extremely well received and has steadily grown with around 17 parents and their under 5’s joining us each week. The atmosphere is Finally, the Cornish Methodist Historical Association plans to visit chapels in warm and welcoming. Fresh coffee and tea is served along with toast and a the far west of the county on a Saturday in May 2019. If anyone from the selection of jams. The relationships that are being established are encouraging Launceston Circuit would like to join us, the provider of this Report would be and the people who come are very grateful that the church is putting this on. In delighted to learn of their interest. fact their appreciation is shown in their desire to support both financially and Dr John Lander (01872 862297 or [email protected]) physically to this new initiative. We have also had opportunities to talk about our chapel, our faith and to offer prayer to those who want it. We were delighted, as a church, to be able to participate in the recent Could you use your gift to create Spotlight magazine? scarecrow festival by making our very own “Wesley” scarecrow, complete with Work with the team and collate all the articles sent in. Bible. This drew much attention, although some mistook the scarecrow for our minister Jo! Add your own flair and ideas. You will need your own computer but software package and training We were also encouraged by being able to join with our brothers and sisters at provided if required. the Anglican Church at the beginning of the Scarecrow festival and then welcoming them to our Coffee & Worship Service at the end of the festival Please contact Richard Wright for more information at [email protected] week. Many have said how they would like more combined services and this is This is a volunteer role. something that we are actively seeking. In addition, as the workbook informs us, ‘our togetherness in Christ flows out of the gospel imperative that ‘they should be one.’’ Of course, that unity is illustrated at its best when we consider N A T L the Trinity – God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. Therefore good relationships need to be built on this example, as well as on trust, respect, e would all like a religion that kept us within our comfort zone, understanding and most importantly love. but just as C S Lewis’ Aslan is not a tame lion , neither is the Christ of the gospels always a comfortable Saviour, saying and Our ‘Coffee & Worship’ services, that happen every 4th Sunday, are doing things that are often unexpected and challenging. opportunities for us to grow in our fellowship, which is imperative for developing W effective Christian disciples. As the workbook says, ‘Good discipleship needs to At Coads Green we are going to be looking at clips from three of CS Lewis’ be at the centre of what the Church does’ and this can be achieved when films: The Lion, the witch and the wardrobe; Prince Caspian and Shadow- together we discover and explore what our faith means. lands . Each film clip will be related to one of the sayings of Jesus and will be used to spark a wide range of discussions covering some challenging topics We are aware that sometimes change can cause discomfort as we try to adjust, such as suffering, God’s absence and sin. but it is also a necessity if we want to grow and be fruitful. The vice -president, in a recent address at Truro Cathedral, spoke about the actions of the disciples There will be five sessions in total, which will be held the 2 nd & 4 th Tuesday of after Jesus’ death. She explained that it would be all too easy to stay still and every month starting on Tuesday 11 th September. We will meet in the not step out of the upper room because of fear and grief. However, standing still parlour at 6:30 pm where we will share food, before watching the film clips is where death is, whereas fullness of life is where there is movement and and breaking into small discussion groups. A short meditation will follow growth. Let us unite and grow God’s kingdom here so that we are able to before the evening ends at 9:00 pm . The first evening will be a “bring and ‘demonstrate the love of God by worshipping and by serving our community.’ share” meal. God bless If you are interested and would like to know more then please contact Revd Jo Smart 01566 782921 or [email protected] South Petherwin Prayer Meeting.

6 19 '...religion is now competing with alternatives undreamed of 100 years ago.' L Despite that being even more the case in 2018, the members at Boyton maintain their Christian witness and their service in the provision of community Our June Family Service was led by Anne Rowe who took us on a nature trail activities. as the theme was based on the hymn ‘If I were a Butterfly’. There were games, illustrated stories and interesting facts on all the animals mentioned in Yeolmbridge chapel, built at Ladycross by the Wesleyans in 1879 to replace an the hymn. The children showed everyone their pictures of butterflies that they earlier chapel located close to the in Yeolmbridge village, was the had coloured at home and brought along. A prayer was read by Jemma and next to be visited. The land had been given by the owner of Yeolmbridge Slate a lesson by Primrose, and the verses and chorus from the hymn were read Quarries who also gave generously to the Building Fund. The chapel has a by Jemma, Jessica and Florence. The organist was Denise Gribble, particularly interesting interior design, layout and fittings which perhaps accompanied by Becky Martin on flute and Frank Arscott on trumpet. Coffee explains why the cost of £1,055 was much larger than that of most chapels built and biscuits were enjoyed afterwards. At the service on the 20th May Roy towards the end of the 19th century. Indeed, the trustees in 1882 felt it Goodson was presented with a card and gift on the occasion of his ‘special’ necessary to write to members to '...earnestly solicit your prompt and hearty birthday. assistance', to help repay the considerable debt that had been incurred. The neighbouring house, previously home for the caretaker, is retained and has Thank you to Jane Bath who did a superb arrangement on behalf of our provided useful income despite the need to regularly spend considerable sums chapel depicting the Devon Air Ambulance at the Flower Festival recently on renovations. The closure over the years of Methodist chapels in the area held at St Mary’s Church, Lifton. has helped to support the maintenance of the congregation. Here, too, a Coffee Mornings dedicated group of people seek the most appropriate way of providing Christian worship to the local community. The next monthly coffee morning will be on Wednesday July 4th at 10.30am at the chapel. All are welcome. The final visit was to the large Launceston Central Methodist Church, situated in the centre of the town. Here we were provided with a splendid tea before we There will be no coffee morning in August, as the Holiday Club will be running - - met in the sanctuary to learn aspects of Methodist history. The Wesley brothers from Monday July 30th Friday August 3rd the theme this year being ‘Tales were regular visitors, receiving differing reactions. In 1751 John was confronted from the Lighthouse’. by a 'mob' but in 1766 'the room at Launceston would not near contain the Diane Northey congregation'. A number of Methodist groups established chapels in the town but the only remaining chapel was built by the Wesleyans in 1869 and 1870 at a cost of £4,702. However, the spire, a prominent feature, was damaged, C G became unsafe and had to be taken down in 1984. Launceston Methodism We started the new youth club last night ( June 15th ) with 22 children of benefited greatly from the close involvement of several prominent 19th century ages ranging between 7 - 14, with a Sausage Sizzle and Rounders. business people, notably members of the Dingley family, who in addition to Our program for the rest of this term is: their professional banking interests, were mayors of the town and, with others, June 22 cooking / javelin throwing (foam) established a school for the '...education of children of Wesleyan Methodists.' " 29 sports / art We learned that the church was one of the earliest to have a choir and July 6 trip to the Climbing Barn (6.30pm) 'instrumentalists' but in 1832 they were '...reprimanded by the trustees...for July 13 games / cooking attending the theatre with their instruments.' The very up to date situation in- " 20 sport / crafts cludes imaginative attempts to attract folk to different types of being 'Church' Meeting at 7.30 till 9pm except the trip. We are charging £1 per session this with a group meeting at a place known as 'Bridge' and having encouraging term, and then adjusted as necessary. Plus a tuck shop available. results. Our fascinating and thoroughly enjoyable day ended with an epilogue service conducted by Malcolm Jones. We are experimenting with running all ages together, at the request of the youngsters, till the end of term and will then, review for the autumn. In addition to being grateful for the wholehearted cooperation that the organiser of the 2018 Pilgrimage received from members in all five chapels in preparing We are very fortunate to have the playing field to hold sports in and plenty of for the day, he has reflected on some important features. While the situation in different equipment available, so we can chose between cricket, rounders, each chapel community is unique, there are common aspects that are relevant football etc. plus table , tennis, air hockey and pool tables. It really is a to note. To a greater or lesser extent the continuation of worship and influence, blessing to be able to build up good relationships within the village, especially in the village chapels, depends on the incredible loyalty and surrounding area and the Chapel. commitment of a relatively small and declining number of aging members. In Linda Medland 18 7 B T C M H A We celebrated our 120 year anniversary over the weekend of the 16th & 17th V C

June. he Cornish Methodist Historical Association undertakes an annual Saturday morning coffee was served and floral displays, depicting past Pilgrimage each May to chapels with interesting histories in various Sunday School Anniversary themes were admired and remembered. The parts of Cornwall. On Saturday 12th May 2018 we visited five chapels photographs, Sunday School/Chapel Records and objects exhibition proved Tin the Tamar Valley region of the county. interesting and informative. Members living between in the west and St Austell to the east made A celebratory concert was held in the evening with a variety of performances up a coachload of 44 people, and arrived at Marhamchurch in time for morning by people connected to the chapel, the guest chairperson, Mr Brian Gerry coffee. Two Methodist denominations, the Wesleyans and the Bible Christians, provided much entertainment with his own recollections which resonated with came to Marhamchurch in the early 19th century and we learned the history of many in the congregation. both churches. The Wesleyan chapel built in 1883, replacing a much earlier one, was bought by one of the trustees in 1954 who converted it into two Many attended the concluding service on Sunday morning which was homes. The Bible Christian chapel, built in 1861 which became the Sunday considerately led by Reverends Anne and Howard Curnow. Refreshments School, was replaced in 1905 by the adjoining present chapel. One interesting were shared and photographs taken. aspect of Methodism in the village was the relatively quick and, happily, Shirley Jordan apparently painless decision in 1947 to close the Wesleyan chapel and for the congregations to worship together in what had become known as the Marhamchurch West chapel. We noted the dedicated service of a Bible Christian minister, W Lane Gibb, born in the village in 1865 and who ministered WANTED! Due to the retirement of Maureen Jones as to congregations for well over 40 years . A small number of dedicated treasurer/secretary of the Launceston Area Methodist Circuit - members continue to worship in a wonderfully maintained building. Graveyard a/c, a replacement is required from September 1st The Pilgrimage then moved to Whitstone where the members enjoyed lunch 2018. This is an interesting job for someone who has the time and heard of the history of the present building that was opened in 1864 by to be involved in the Circuit both in organising the maintenance Frederick Bourne, a leader of the Bible Christians for well over 40 years. and dealing with enquiries for the redundant graveyards where Another of the denomination's leaders, James Thorne, had laid the foundation

there is no longer an active Church. stone a year earlier. The present chapel replaced a building known as 'Ayres Please speak to Malcolm Jones if you are interested or speak Chapel' built in 1835 and then used for the Sunday School until it closed in the to Maureen Jones who can give you more details. 1950s. Situated 200 yards away from the present church, it is a Grade 2 listed building that had been used as a store until it was again sold for conversion into a private house. Sadly, it remains in a largely dilapidated state. The church members now contribute to serving the local community in a variety of ways

TABITHA’S BLOOMING GREAT TEA PARTY and, encouragingly, children's work continues. For MARIE CURIE The third chapel to be visited was at Boyton where we were joined by Rev Malcolm Jones, Superintendent minister, who accompanied us for the SATURDAY 14TH JULY 2018 remainder of the day. The original chapel, built in 1842 on the site of the TREBULLETT HALL present building, was constructed for yet another Methodist group, the Wesleyan Methodist Association. That chapel became too small and the from 2pm to 5pm present chapel was opened in 1889. The final words at the opening ceremony Please come along to enjoy tea and cake and were that the chapel should be '...a dwelling place for the Almighty, and a Support this wonderful charity home of mercy, consolation and salvation to the needy.' An interesting feature of the church for many years from about 1890 was a thriving Band of Hope group that contained at least 80 members in 1900. Rev Ian Haile, a former Chairman of the Cornwall District of the Methodist Church and of the Cornish Methodist Historical Association, conducted the 100th anniversary service in July 1989. In the same year, a booklet to commemorate the centenary, said 8 17 S L aving made the conscious decision to be free of public duties I would like to express how much I have enjoyed being part of the Spotlight editorial team and live on with the hopes that Spotlight will Hlong continue to be a part of the Circuit’s salt and light. Sometimes changes are forced upon us. Recently I experienced a mini stroke which leaves one feeling very tired, more especially when in the older age bracket! To any readers who are forced into a less energetic life -style and are finding it a difficult transition, take heart. Your salt flavours and your light beams in the shadows where the more intense and energetic may not notice. So, keep on flavouring and beaming in the lesser noticed areas of life. At the risk of repeating, I offer you the words of a favourite prayer that has come through the ages from St Francis of Assisi: LORD, help me to live this day QUIETLY - EASILY To lean upon your great strength TRUSTFULLY - RESTFULLY To wait for the unfolding of your will PATIENTLY - SERENELY To meet others PEACEFULLY - JOYOUSLY To face tomorrow CONFIDENTLY - COURAGEOUSLY W D C 2018 Amen. W C, T With love ur Wesley Day Celebrations at Trewint commenced on 24th May Catherine J -B. 2018 when at 8pm people from three Methodist circuits gathered for a spiritually uplifting evening in the historic Prophet’s Chamber. Hymns Oby Charles Wesley were sung and the sermon by John Wesley on Fanaticism presented by John Hogarth, Curator of Wesley Cottage. The Scriptures were read by Helen Pengelly a Local Preacher from the Saltash Area Circuit and prayers specific to the day were led by Chris Clark. The atmosphere intensified further at about a quarter before nine as the account of Wesley’s Conversion was read by Naomi Sparey, a volunteer at Wesley Cottage. The second part of our Wesley Day Celebrations were held on Sunday 27th Thank You Catherine May when over 100 people gathered outside in the sunshine to hear the Catherine Jones -Bastard has been a valued member of the Spotlight Team President of the Methodist Conference, Lorraine Mellor preach at the historic porch. Lorraine told us some Tales of the Unexpected and encouraged us to since 2010 and has given eight years of wonderful service which have been reflected in her contributions to and her suggestions for editorial content in respond to the God of surprises. Spotlight. She also took her turn in the production side helping in the folding Steve Wild, Chair of the Cornwall Methodist District led our worship in his own and stapling of over 200 copies of Spotlight each issue. To those of us left in engaging style. We were delighted that the Methodist Youth President Michael the team Catherine’s leaving will be with mixed feelings. For her we will be Pryke was able to join us to read the account of Wesley’s Conversion. Michael pleased because she can now take a well -earned rest from at least one of her received a surprise as he was interviewed by Steve Wild ably assisted by many public duties and concentrate on getting well. For us left in the team we Florence the Frog. will greatly miss her contributions, counsel and spiritual advice. Our friendship The Bible Readings were brought to us by Paul Melling of Saltash and Ralph will of course continue. We would like Spotlight readers to join with the Team Osgerby from Newquay. Both our readers have been heavily involved in the in thanking Catherine for her service and wishing her well for the future.

16 9 Wesley Cottage Development Project which will soon be completed providing C M better display and visitor facilities. or six months the Church Calendar rolls steadily on remembering the The afternoon concluded with the singing of the great Charles Wesley Hymn events of Jesus’ earthly life. Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, Love Divine expertly pitched for us by Mark Pellow of the Wesley Cottage Ascension (and Pentecost). Then suddenly it all seems to come to a Management Committee. Fhalt and there is nothing for the next six months until Advent rolls Then it was time for an excellent tea in Altarnun Parish Church Hall provided round again. Of course this is really only a matter of perception. There are for us by a committed team of local Methodists who along with our stewards many other events in the Church Calendar: some such as Patronal Festivals are the unsung heroes of such a day, as ever we are very grateful for all they and Anniversaries being spread through the year; and others like Harvest and do. Remembrance filling in the gap. But if we restrict ourselves just to those festivals which commemorate the main events in the life of Jesus then the six From 6pm Paul Fry of Landrake Methodist Church played for us on the organ month rule applies very well indeed. in Altarnun Parish Church prior to our united evening worship at 6.30pm. Personally I find this fact quite challenging. It is a reminder that with Jesus’ Here Deryn Roberts, the vicar of Altarnun, gave us a warm welcome, worship departure at Ascension and with the arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, to was led by Steve Wild and Rev Lorraine Mellor preached a most inspiring empower the Church, God in effect says “It’s over to you now; get out there sermon encouraging us to find our courage, be confident in God and use our and spread the Good News.” With all the busy -ness of making sure that we God given imaginations. The Parish Church resounded to the singing of get our celebrations right we can forget that the essential function of the another Charles Wesley Hymn as ‘And Can it be’ brought our celebrations to – Church does not change in those empty six months nor has it in the past a close for another year. two thousand years. Wesley Cottage, Trewint is open to the public until the end of October We might do well to ask who the celebrations of the Church Calendar are for? Tuesday to Saturday 10am -4pm Complimentary light refreshments are usually Surely it is not those in the Church who need reminding of the events of the available. www.wesleycottage.org.uk life of Jesus! It is true that every effort is made to encourage those who do not John Hogarth usually attend services to come along for the big festivals – with varying degrees of success. The major festivals of the Church are rightful celebrations of the good things that God has done for us in Jesus, and so have value in ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ their own right, but wouldn’t they be better if there were more people there to join in! Perhaps these celebrations should be taken outside the Church buildings and into the community. There was an Easter trail around Trebullett C A this year which sought to do just that with quite some success. How best should the Church be using these quiet six months in its Calendar. n March this year Jill Stone asked the Christian Aid committee if they The temptation might be to take a break from ‘religion’ and concentrate on the would be willing to raise £5000 for a Community Partnership in Ghana, rest of life. But the New Testament teaches us quite the opposite. It was which we agreed to. If we did raise this amount the EU would agree to when Jesus had gone, when the joy of his physical presence was over, that triple this amount. Ghana is in West Africa surrounded by Burkina Faso, I - the early believers had to step up to the mark and continue His mission. Cote d' Ivoire and Togo Area 238,533 km (a little smaller than the UK), Believers today similarly need to share Jesus with their families, friends and Population 28.21 million, Capital City Accra, Life expectancy - Women 64 neighbours, so that when the celebrations begin again there will be more years, Men 61 years, Languages English, Akan & Ewe, Religions Christianity, there to join in. Islam & indigenous beliefs. More than half of the population (60%) is under 25 years old. Unemployment is the main problem. Over the last 10 years its If the Churches hope for visitors on the big occasions – and are often real growth rate has averaged 7.4% and oil production is set to increase. disappointed – how much more surprised they might be if members of the Ghana's economy depends on gold, cocoa and oil. Youth unemployment is a community visited on an ordinary Sunday. So, on behalf of the Churches, may real problem in Ghana. Our Project would go a long way to tackle this I extend an invitation to you all to come and surprise us – visit now and don’t problem. Women are politically under represented. 5 million people have a wait for the next big calendar event! And to those in the Churches - keep disability in Ghana. Our Project aims to empower young women and people getting out there with the Good News; this is not the time to relax this is the with disabilities and work towards a more equal working environment. time for action! Chris Gaunt Keith Browne

10 15 enough money, even what they had saved belonged to their master. LETTER FROM THE DISTRICT CHAIR

Freedom needed a third person to pay the price for their redemption. Paul closed by speaking of the times when we are tested – when we pass through water and fire (v2). These would have been vivid images to the Jews who would recall the passing through the Red Sea to freedom and to the Dear Friends ‘burning, fiery furnace’ recorded in Daniel. The Christian life does not give us immunity from difficult challenges but God has promised to be us in them I recently re visited the Lancashire mill town of Rochdale where I was because we belong to Him and we are His and precious to Him. He says; ‘I born. My spiritual home a former United Methodist Free Church called will be with you....My grace is sufficient’. Syke on the edge of the Pennines The July meeting will be on Tuesday July 10th when Mike Stern will be the The brightly painted chapel by the green is where I preached one of my speaker. Please join us in the Dingley at 7.30pm for a time of fellowship, first sermons, sang in the choir (!) sat on the Church Council, helped prayer and teaching. run the Youth Club and was a Sunday School teacher. Pat White These Methodist folk put up with a lot as I sought to follow Christ after a Cliff College Easter Mission and was very enthusiastic teenage Christian, whatever mistakes I made and they were many - these people just loved and accepted me and have prayed for me for all these years. C H M I remember the Centenary in 1968. They invited me back to conduct the he Circuit Home Missions event will take a little different form this 150th Anniversary of the opening of the chapel this May. I met again year ; we are holding it on Sunday 15th July at Central in the many old friends they are only 15 members now but they were in good schoolroom instead of the usual outdoor meeting. heart and the chapel was full I’d been told by the minister that there would be a baptism and reception of a new member in the service but TThis will commence at 4.0pm with a talk on the Gideon movement what really surprised me was that this wasn’t a baby to be baptised but by Mr Eric Rowland and Mr Richard Burt who are both members of the a 40 year old man. My old church had taken on the challenge I set out Gideons, having been involved with the rural and urban situations. We shall for each church to make one new member they had prayed for this that look forward to a most interesting presentation. This will be followed by a the Lord would help them to witness and care in the community. Bring & Share tea; gifts of food will be much appreciated. We feel this could Their prayers were answered and this man had an encounter with God be a more appropriate venue and time to enable friends to come along. not in a church or religious building but outdoors and because Syke was Margaret Stephens the nearest church turned up one Sunday. He was warmly welcomed the minister was glad of the contact and she has been discipling him. He had never been baptised so at this 150th anniversary his story was the main part of the service and we all AROUND THE WORLD rejoiced. Join us at Central Methodist Christ Jesus came to show us what God is like, loving, fair, grace filled Church Holiday Club and kind he wants His people on earth to be like that. this message is too good to keep to ourselves and all around us He is at work. In your 13th -17th & 19th August prayers ask God to give you opportunities and let’s not be afraid. Our 10 am till 12.30 pm District this year has been challenging all Cornish Methodists to be 10% Fun, Games & craft with a snack bolder - it happened at my old church Syke it can happen for you. For 5 – 11 year olds God bless £2 per child & £1.50 for other family children per day Full details and booking info at Steve Wild

www.central-methodist.org.uk

14 11 L P aul Smith, former minister of Plymouth Central Methodist Church, was the speaker for the June meeting. It was chaired by Keith Frost and Christine Craig very kindly travelled in to accompany the singing

LAUNCESTON AREA CHRISTIAN AID ACTION GROUP Pon the piano. GHANA COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP PROJECT focusing on young Keith opened with a time of open prayer, guided by prayer suggestions people and helping them secure employment, particularly those who are provided by Mike Stern. living with disabilities Paul read from Isaiah 43 vv 1 - 7 and gave a lively and encouraging message. FUND RAISING ACTIVITIES He explained that there were 2 great events recorded in the Old Testament th Sunday July 8 Project Launch which shaped God’s peoples’ understanding of His nature: 245 Revive – 6.30pm The Exodus : The nation escaped from slavery in Egypt, showing that God Central Methodist Church calls, chooses, saves and delivers His people. However, following their th eventual settling in the Promised Land, they strayed from Him and sinned. Tuesday August 28 Tuesday Coffee morning 1000 -1200 Central Methodist Hall The Exile: As predicted by their prophets, judgement came in the form of nd captivity and they were deported to Babylon. There they had no special place Friday November 2 Silent Auction & Buffet Supper 7.30pm of worship and adapted their previous worship, based on sacrifice at the Trethorne Leisure Farm Temple, to worship based on the law in local synagogues. 70 years of exile The auction needs good quality items of art, glassware, ceramics, jewel- followed until the Persians conquered the Babylonian Empire and allowed the lery and collectibles and these will be professionally valued prior to the Jews to return home and to rebuild their Temple. auction to give a reserve price. All items donated and not reaching their Paul talked about a timeline of Jewish history between these two great reserve will be auctioned at Jeffreys of events, and how placing the prophets in context allows us to see how their If you have any items you think might be suitable and would like to donate messages fit with what was happening at the time. – them to this appeal please get in touch with Isaiah’s writings span the time before and during the exile, so chapters 1 -39 Sarah Vinson (01566 880244 /[email protected] ) are warnings but the opening of chapter 40 changes tone and brings hope. In exile the people would have felt lost, bereft and maybe even abandoned by Jenny Cook (01566 773821 [email protected] God. They knew they had sinned, but God said to them, “I have redeemed to provide your name and contact details and a brief description of the you”. item by FRIDAY AUGUST 31 st 2018 We were reminded that, at the time of the Exodus, there was a death in every family in Egypt: either of the first born or of a lamb. Redemption requires sacrifice. Paul illustrated this by telling the story of the boy who, having made a boat, lost it and then found it for sale in a shop. He bought it back – re- - MWiB World Federation Day 2018 deemed it saying that it was twice his as he had made it and bought it. God told His people, as He tells us: ‘I have redeemed you.... you are mine.’ I am sure you will have heard by now that Cornwall is to host the God’s love is for everybody, but if we are redeemed by Him we are really World Federation Day of Methodist and Uniting Church Women in October precious to Him. When we go through hard times this message brings comfort - this is a real opportunity for us to attend the event as it has never been when other words may not. The value placed something depends on the price held in Cornwall before and will be an inspirational time. paid and the sacrifice that had to be made to obtain it. We only have to look at Details are as below. If anyone would like to go, a booking form can be the cross to see the value God places on us. Our value to God does not requested from Jill Price 01579 370835 or Cathy Arscott 01566 780555. depend on us and how we feel but on how He sees us, which is the people

Life and Learning Quality Education for All. Saturday 27th October 2018 He sacrificed His only son for. 10am to 4pm at Truro Methodist Church, Union Place, Truro. For the Jews, the picture of redemption from slavery was very strong. They could never buy themselves out of it because, even if they managed to save

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