Methodist Post • Clifford • Bramham May 2017 Minister’s Letter Franks & Son Dear Friends, In the book of Amos, you will find these words written; Plumbers, Heating Engineers “I hate, I despise your festival, and I take no delight in your Gas & Oil Installation solemn assemblies…… Index of Advertisers Take away from me the noise of your songs; I will not listen Please support our advertisers 4 Green Lea Close to the melody of your harps.” whenever possible. Boston Spa To us these words, referring to the worship practices of To advertise in future issues, God’s people, express extremely negative thoughts about what was going on. It may please contact Graham McGuire Tel: 01937 843830 surprise you to know that these were God’s thoughts on the worship offered to Him by on 01937 844838. Mobile: 07802 762958 the Jews, a brief time before the exile of Israel in Assyria in 722BC. Franks & Son...... 2 God was speaking through the prophet Amos, and was clearly very angry, so Gents Hair...... 2 REGISTERED GAS SAFE what was He so angry about? Well the last verse of this section tells us quite clearly: Peter Norman Plumbing & Heating...... 6 “… let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream” Gifted...... 6 God doesn’t want insincere worship from people who are not living as He would Andrew Morgan Opticians...... 6 want them to, who are not seeking to bring about justice, people who are not treating Kate Mell Flowers ...... 9 Gents Hair others fairly. Why? Because justice and righteousness in the treatment of other people Sandersons...... 10 are the key evidences of a right relationship with God. This theme flows through Amanda Buch...... 11 210 High Street the book of Amos, and indeed through much of the Old Testament. God wants His The Central Garage...... 12 people to make a difference in the world and to be an example to those around Tony Barker & Sons...... 12 Tel: 01937 843012 them. This is not just a reoccurring theme in the Old Testament though; Jesus in his Queripel and Kettlewell...... 16 teaching about judgment, through the parable of the sheep and goats, says; Vanessa Jude...... 16 We also have a ladies salon Douglas Yeadon Hardware...... 16 “You that are accursed, depart from me…. For I was hungry and you gave me no Bobbins...... 17 Old and new customers food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did Kirby Builders Merchants...... 18 very welcome. Give us a try – not welcome me, naked and you did not give me clothing, sick and in prison and Your Housing Group...... 22 you did not visit me”. Skelf Frames Ltd...... 23 you won’t be disappointed When asked about the greatest commandments, Jesus replies that the first is to Spa Travel...... Back cover love God with all that we have, and the second is to love our neighbours as ourselves. How does God judge us and our worship today? Could it be that our worship is offensive to God in the way that the worship of the Jews was all those years ago? Ideas and contributions for future issues of the Methodist Post Hopefully not, but we do need to look at the way we live our lives in the light of what always welcome. For the June issue, please send copy to: we believe. [email protected] by 10th May. Thank you. We make so many decisions, every day, that impact on others around us directly or indirectly and we should seek to make good decisions; decisions that help in some Cover photo: The Bluebells on the cover are in Middleton Woods at . These small way to bring about justice and righteousness; decisions that help in some way ‘Wood Hyacinths’ are our beautiful native plant which is characterised by its cream to bring about God’s Kingdom. coloured pollen and the fact that the florets grow on only one side of the stem thereby Christian Aid Week from 14th-20th May gives us an opportunity to give of our time causing them to droop to one side. The Spanish variety has blue to green pollen and and our money to help others; opportunities to pray for those who are facing injustice they generally grow taller and are upright and can be pink, pale blue or white. in different situations around the world. You can get more information on the work they On the edge of the woods is the fascinating Calvary Garden with its carved Italian do from their website: http://www.christianaid.org.uk/christian-aid-week. You can give stone sculptures forming the stations of a cross. Enter through a wooden gate set in directly through the churches, or if you have some time to spare and would be willing the wall reminiscent of the ‘wicket’ gate through which Christian passed on his way to help with collections, please speak to me on 01937-842156. to the Celestial City. AWF Every Blessing – 2 – – 3 – Boston Spa Church Rotas – May

Door Stewards Flowers Church Stewards

7th Joan Dyer Carmen Ashton Barbara Hudson Pauline O’Melia Sheila Humphreys 14th Kathleen McGuire Molly Fowler Pauline O’Melia May Diary Dates Graham McGuire Joan Dyer 21st Julie Thompson Jackie Faulkner Bob Hutchinson Sunday 7th 10.30am Dr Alan Bell with Mrs Jean Walne as Worship Leader Val Woodhams Jean Walne 6.00pm MWiB: Circuit Service for the dedication of Easter 28th Heather & Claire Grant Sheila Humphreys Heather Grant offerings – Methodist Church Pauline O’Melia Tuesday 9th 2.00pm WFG: Mr Mike Henzell Wednesday 10th 7.15pm Men’s Group (see below) Saturday Coffee Sunday Coffee Friday 12th 12 noon Light lunches to be served prior to 1.00pm Lunchtime Concert (see p.11) 6th Mike & Jean Walne 7th David & Barbara Parrott Saturday 13th 10am-1pm “Where do we go from here?” – all welcome to 13th Angela Coleman 14th Ken & Judith Grimditch come and share ideas for the future of our church Barbara Hudson 21st Mike & Jean Henzell Sunday 14th to 20th Christian Aid Week (see p.19) 20th Heather Grant 28th John & Barbara Hudson Sunday 14th 10.30am United Service to celebrate 27th Brian & Jackie Marsden Joy Ackroyd the start of Christian Aid week Tuesday 16th 10.30am Evergreens Luncheon Club 3 Jun Mike & Jean Walne 4 Jun Bob & Sheila Humphreys Thursday 18th 10.00am MWiB (see p.15) Saturday 20th 10am-12 noon Pentecost ‘Say One for Me’ (full details p.14) Busy Bees Cleaning Sunday 21st 10.30am Mr Dennis Ashton with Mrs Molly Fowler as Worship Leader 3rd Christine Mitchell 1st-14th Jackie & Arthur Faulkner 6.00pm Reflections Service led by Revd Steve Jakeman 10th Jean Walne 15th-28th Dennis & Carmen Ashton Tuesday 23rd 2.00pm WFG: Revd Steve Jakeman 17th Carmen Ashton 29-4 June Jackie & Brian Marsden Sunday 28th 10.30am Communion Service led by Revd Gordon Shaw 24th Jackie Faulkner with Mrs Barbara Hudson as Worship Leader 31st Judith Grimditch Wednesday 31st 3.30pm Messy Church

Future Events Birthday Greetings Spring Fair Fundraising Day at Wetherby Hall – Saturday 3rd June Women’s Friendship Group Stalls, refreshments. Further details to follow. 1st: Mavis Nettleton 15th: Kath Mountain 23rd: Mary Ruston Lunchtime Concert – 1pm, Friday 9th June – James Gaughan, Baritone Children – 13th: Lucy Ingle Evening Concert – 7.30pm, Friday 23rd June Showtunes Singalong – The 4 Shades Entente Thank you Boston Spa Festival Weekend – Friday 14th to Sunday 16th July The family of the late Susan Hardy would like to say a very sincere thank you to everyone that attended Sue’s funeral and for the generous donations given in her Boston Spa Methodist Church Men’s Group – Wednesday 10th May, 7.15pm Peter Cunliffe – Speaker, Author, Military Historian, will give an illustrated presentation memory to Martin House Hospice. Thank you also for the many cards, messages and flowers received during this very sad time. on “Sunderland flying boats and the Windermere factory”. Open meeting: all welcome. Mary Ibbotson

– 4 – – 5 – Frank Hill (1933-2017) PETER NORMAN “I only came for two weeks!” Plumbing & Heating Limited This is a saying that will be well known to the family and ESTABLISHED 1993 many friends of Frank Hill who gathered on March 28th, with members of the church family to celebrate his life in a Thanksgiving Service led by Revd Steve Jakeman. Frank Hill was born in, Glasgow on 25th May 1933 where he lived with his family until the age of 16. He moved to Thorner, through the YMCA “British Boys for The Plumbers’ British Farms” scheme. It was in Thorner that he met his wife Joan; who he qualification Qualified proposed to after only three months! They married in 1953. Mulberry Cottage, New Mill Lane, Clifford, LS23 6HN Tel: 01937 843935 In 1951 he became Assistant Manager, at the Home and Colonial store in ; and this was going well until he was called up for National Service; joining the Royal Signals. He continued in the Army until 1957, having attained the rank of Sergeant. After leaving the army, Frank joined the West Riding Police and was posted to , where they found lodgings. Eventually he was stationed in Rawmarsh, South for ten years. Gifted In 1967 Frank, Joan and their children moved to Boston Spa where Frank soon became the village bobby and used to ride around his beat on a 'noddy Fine and exclusive gifts for all occasions. bike'. He was respected and admired, by most people that he came into Free gift wrapping service contact with, for his firm but fair dealings with young and old alike. In 1976 Frank gained promotion to Sergeant and was moved from Wetherby Open Monday–Saturday, 9am-5pm to Chapel town in Leeds (part of the Police Force). He was there, on duty, during the riots and had many tales to tell of that time. In 1987, after 30 years of service, he retired from the Police Force and, 182A High Street, Boston Spa, LS23 6BT Tel: 01937 541600 following a 12 month “rest’, he went to work as a storeman at Rudgate Prison. www.giftedbostonspa.co.uk [email protected] He enjoyed his time there and again made many friends. He retired from there in 1998. Frank enjoyed chatting to people and telling stories about his life and Andrew Morgan family. His favourite, of course, was how he had only come to Yorkshire for two weeks and was still here nearly seventy years later! OPTICIANS He loved it when the family all got together at Christmas, birthdays or other celebrations. Visits by all the family, especially his two great granddaughters, brought great joy to him. Frank was a very kind, caring and generous man. He particularly loved 170 High Street his family and was always delighted with each new addition to the family, and Boston Spa, LS23 6BW on March 28th, when we joined together to give thanks for his life, the love in which he was held filled the Chapel; blotting out the greyish skies outside. Tel: 01937 849933 It is with a mixture of sadness for having lost a friend but with gladness for him that he is now at peace, that we give thanks to God for the life and love of A M A. J. Morgan, B.Sc., M.C.Optom. our friend Frank Hill.

– 6 – – 7 – CLIFFORD Afternoon Tea & Songs From the Shows METHODIST CHURCH Following last year’s successful Afternoon Teas with community singing, we are holding a similar event on Sunday May 14th in Clifford Methodist Schoolroom from 3pm to 5pm. Come along and enjoy singing songs from your favourite shows with keyboard accompaniment from Simon Noble. Then tuck in to a fabulous Afternoon Tea. All this for £5. Get your tickets from Clifford Church Stewards, or ring Kathryn Whaley on 845692. The church is a bit tucked away at the end of Nursery Way, or from the High Street, where a blue noticeboard points the way Baby and Toddler Group: We would like to start a baby and toddler Group in Clifford Methodist Schoolroom on Friday mornings during term time. As we are few in May Services number, we need extra helpers on a rota basis. 7th 10.30am Service of Holy Communion, led by Revd Steve Jakeman If you are interested, please ring Alison Smith on 845511. 14th 10.30am Revd Stanley Jackson 21st 10.30am Café style worship, led by Dr Alan Bell 28th 10.30am Mr Nick Payling Happy Birthday Door Stewards Flowers Vestry Alexia Salou, Kathryn Whaley, Ron Rodgers, Sheila Biercamp, Joan Bartlett, Marjorie Robinson 7th Alison Smith, Julie Norman Carol Smith Jason Turner 14th Sheila & Katy Biercamp Margaret Suggate David Mountain 21st Carol Smith, Margaret Suggate Mavis Rodgers Alison Smith 28th Catherine Catton, Ros McCall Catherine Catton Michael Whaley

Schoolroom cleaning – Margaret Suggate Bespoke flowers for KATE weddings, parties & MELL functions, birthdays Long Service Award & anniversaries, On 9th April, a framed certificate for FLOWERS business contracts, Long Service as a Local Preacher funerals & sympathy, was awarded to David Mountain. Or.... ‘just because’. It’s hard to believe, but David has been a local preacher for 40 years, www.katemell.co.uk Pick up the perfect beginning about the time he left 01937 841415 present for yourself Hull University. or others from our Revd Steve Barlow announced Facebook.com/KateMell Twitter.com/KateMellFlowers range of gifts & this award at the morning’s service interior furniture, to in Clifford, much to David’s surprise 160 HIGH STREET home and garden as he didn't realise he had been a BOSTON SPA | LS23 6BW accessories. local preacher for so long! [email protected] Well done David.

– 8 – – 9 – Circuit Team Quiz evening Unfortunately, for various reasons, Appleton Roebuck, , Clifford and Ulleskelf were unable to enter teams this year. So 15 teams competed – one from Collingham, two from , five from Wetherby, and seven from Boston Spa. Whizz Kids (Boston Spa) went into the lead after the first two rounds of Geography & TV/Films, but the next two rounds of Sport & Arts/Literature resulted in Calcarian Crackers (Tadcaster), Pointless Singers (Wetherby), and TT Ruby (Boston Spa) achieving 100% marks in Arts/Lit and competing for premier position. The interval enabled all to partake of the grand buffet arranged by our splendid The Lunchtime Concert will take place on Friday, ladies. 12th May at 1pm. Light lunches will be served from Then proceeding to the next rounds of Music and History which resulted in noon and concert admission is £5. Concerto (Boston Spa) and again Pointless Singers achieving 100% in Music, We shall be entertained by John Wallis resulting in Pointless Singers tying with Whizz Kids in first place. Then although Formerly a Chartered Civil Engineer, John is now Calcarian Crackers achieved 100% in Science, it could not stop Pointless Singers fulfilling an ambition – as a speaker and entertainer claiming the Trophy in first position, attaining 81 points out of a possible 96, followed with a difference. by TT Ruby (Boston Spa) and Whizz Kids tying for second place. Using his extensive knowledge of the history of An enjoyable evening of fellowship passed all too quickly; thanks were expressed Music Hall and Variety (incorporating the history to all concerned, particularly Arthur Faulkner as question master, Chris Harrison of humour) he has developed a series of talks, for running the raffle and Mike Walne for providing the all illustrated by performing songs and humour loudspeaker. The evening resulted in £408 being raised for from the whole era, to his own banjo, ukulele and Action for Children. Gordon Hurren mandola accompaniment. He appeared in “The Good Old Days” at Leeds City Varieties in March 2014.

Our lunchtime concert next month will be held on Friday 9th June, WITH OVER Sandersons when we welcome James Gaughan (baritone) and Koki Imada (piano). 50 YEARS’ Check our website for further details of all of our concerts: EXPERIENCE ... the first choice www.bostonspamethodistchurch.org.uk v Residential removals v Container storage v Shipping Amanda Buch M.C.S.P., BSc(Hons) v CHARTERED MUSCULOSKELETAL PHYSIOTHERAPIST Office removals Registered with the Health Professions Council v Document storage v Self store Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Now at TrainFX Health Club, Estate, Wetherby LS23 7BJ British Association Tel: 07968 051012 Email: [email protected] Tockwith 01423 358934 of Removers www.sandersonsremovals.com If you are moving, Evening and weekend appointments available look for the badge Registered with BUPA, PPP and all major insurance companies

– 10 – – 11 – Stuart Townend concert and hymns in worship On Monday 27th March Boston Spa Methodist Church THE CENTRAL GARAGE was again full and rejoicing (swaying/rocking!) to the for service you can rely on sounds of Stuart Townend and his band. It was great that A family business established 1926 Boston Spa had been able to attract one of the country’s u Tyres, exhausts, batteries and brakes foremost modern hymnwriters u to perform and express so well Servicing and repairs – all makes a his faith through his words and u Courtesy cars available music. He spoke about using hymns as his way of teaching u MOT testing the gospel of our Lord, as Photo courtesy Arthur Faulkner opposed hearing it through sermons, although ministers in the congregation might not agree! 153 High Street, Boston Spa, LS23 6BH This was a super performance enhanced by being able to follow and sing along to Tel: 01937 842283 Fax: 01937 849001 the words projected on the screen. I’m sure that Steve will be keen to use his hymns on occasions in morning worship. There are actually ten Townend hymns in ‘Singing YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT SERVICE CENTRE the Faith’, but surprisingly one of his best loved, “How deep the Father’s love for us”, does not feature. It should also be noted that Stuart has co-written many hymns with Keith Getty, including the classic, “In Christ alone” (hymn 351), which ends with that glorious statement, “here in the power of Christ I’ll stand!” Stuart has also given old traditional hymns fresh expression and one example of this is “The Lord’s my shepherd” (hymn 481). The concert also prompted me to think again about the importance of hymns in Independent Family Funeral Directors in church services and other hymnwriters that have made significant impact to praising our Lord. The Bible and hymn book belong together. The church needs both. The Boston Spa, Tadcaster and surrounding areas Bible contains the Word of God, while the hymn book is full of poetry and music which can console, challenge and inspire. ESTABLISHED OVER 100 YEARS Of course, in the Methodist Church, the hymns of Charles Wesley are renowned and have been loved by generations of church goers across the world (The Wesley Private chapel of rest hymn “And can it be” remains one of my favourites). John and Charles Wesley made Golden Charter prepaid funeral plans an incredible impact on British Church life not only through preaching, but partly due to the stress they laid on hymn singing. We may not hear much of their sermons now but their enduring legacy is the many hymns we still regularly sing today. Tel: 01937 842574/07773 226045 So with the permission of the magazine editor, I would like to feature other modern Email: [email protected] hymnwriters over the next few months to highlight the contribution they have made to church life. There are so many to choose from but I thought I might start next month 24 HOUR SERVICE featuring Fred Kaan. [Note, you will find 12 of his hymns in ‘Singing the Faith’.] Jim Murison

– 12 – – 13 – ‘Say One For Me’ I, Daniel Blake 20th May – 4th June 2017 Churches What timing – the screening of ‘I, Daniel Together Blake’ in the week when further benefit Local churches in Boston Spa, Clifford, Bramham, Thorp cuts came into force. Arch and Walton will be praying, with focussed vigour, for The film depicts the treatment of the needs of local people and communities. Daniel when he tries to claim benefits. Despite the fact that both his GP and Saturday 20th May, 10am-12pm consultant had declared him unfit for The week will start with an information morning in Boston Spa and free refreshments, work, the “system” denied him disability as an act of hospitality, at the Methodist Church. allowance. The only benefit available to him – Jobseeker’s allowance – required him to prove spending at least 35 hours a week actively seeking work which he couldn’t Over the fortnight there will be: accept anyway. It was this which ultimately defeated him. The film also features single v Prayer walks in local communities; mother Katie and her two young children, with whom Daniel strikes up a friendship. v Creative prayer spaces, 9am-5pm every day, in St Mary’s, Boston Spa Katie’s only chance to escape a one-roomed homeless hostel in is to accept and All Saints’ Bramham; a flat some 300 miles away. v Opportunities to request specific prayer. The most disturbing aspect of the film was the way Daniel was treated atthe benefits office – more like a number than an individual. There was little or no respect PENTECOST Sunday 4th June, 11am-12pm or sympathy shown to him, either for the situation in which he found himself, or his The fortnight will end with a shared, family friendly, celebration service at St Mary’s feelings. Applications had to be completed on line and there was no direct help Church, Boston Spa, followed by refreshments. Everyone welcome. provided for someone like Daniel who had no computer, or experience of using one. Sanctions were imposed and money withheld if forms were not completed correctly, Prayer-Walks 2017 causing further distress and deprivation. Having honestly tried to comply with all the Everyone is welcome. No prior experience required! requirements, he is finally defeated and walks away. Prayer-walking is as simple as it sounds – praying as you walk around the local area. Perhaps the one positive element of this film was the compassion shown by When we prayer-walk we are bringing God’s blessing to people and places, in Jesus’ volunteers in the Foodbank. Name. All walks will start at 7pm and finish at 8pm. The film makes you feel angry and appalled that a system which is supposed to help the vulnerable and needy so often lets these people down. Ken Loach, the Monday 22nd May – Boston Spa Meeting place*: Deepdale Community Centre Leader – Revd Steve Jakeman director of the film, said in an interview that he had done a lot of research into the benefit system and spoken to people who worked in the sector. This suggests that the Wednesday 24th May – Clifford film is an accurate portrayal of what is happening in our country: not only disturbing, Meeting place*: Clifford Methodist Chapel Leader – Revd Steve Jakeman but should shame us all. Friday 26th May – Bramham The end of the film was met with complete silence, as Daniel Blake collapses and Meeting place*: Red Lion Public House Leader – Revd Jane Brown dies before his appeal against sanctions is heard. Ursula Turner Monday 29th May – Boston Spa Meeting place*: Fox and Hounds Inn Leader – Revd Jane Brown Wednesday 31st May – Walton Meeting place*: Walton Village Hall Leader – Revd Jane Brown Methodist Women in Britain, Tadcaster Circuit Friday 2nd June – Thorp Arch District Spring Day with Ruth Dale Meeting place*: The Green (finishing at The Pax) Leader – Revd Trish Anslow Thursday 18th May, at Bricknell Avenue, Hull * Please note we will meet outside each of these places. Morning: Working with and signing for the deaf Afternoon: Hearing Dogs for deaf people For further details please contact Revd Steve 01937 842156. 10am coffee for 10.30am start. Finish 3pm. Please bring a packed lunch.

– 14 – – 15 – Citizens of? ...... The then 27 European Union countries signed the Treaty of Lisbon on 13 December Queripel and Kettlewell 2007. Article 50 of that Treaty provides that any member state can give notice of intention to withdraw from membership of the Union. The country triggering Article 50 Chartered Accountants, Chartered Tax Advisers must then negotiate an agreement with the other member countries on the terms of and Registered Auditors withdrawal. The Treaty of Lisbon and all the other EU treaties – with their rights and obligations – cease to apply to the country leaving the EU on the coming into force Preparation of Accounts of the withdrawal agreement or, failing that, 2 years after the date of the trigger. The v v European Council can agree with the state concerned to extend the period. Tax Returns Tax Advice Tax Planning Following the result of last year’s referendum, the UK government triggered Article 50 on the 29th March of this year. We now have to negotiate a withdrawal Phone Paul Queripel on 01937 541770 agreement acceptable to all the other member states by 29th March 2019, or leave The Barn, Hall Mews, Boston Spa, LS23 6AA without agreement, or seek an extension of time from the European Council. This is not an easy task; for example, Spain has already linked the future of Gibraltar with its willingness to agree. But let’s put this on one side for the moment. One of the many vital areas for negotiation will be concerned with the position Vanessa Jude Supershop of UK citizens living in the rest of the EU, and of EU citizens living in the UK. Many British citizens live and work abroad; and some of our own industries – for example Newsagents and deliveries health, horticulture and hospitality – depend heavily on foreign workers in the UK. We need first to pray for wisdom and understanding for our leaders and those of the other Confectionery p Greetings cards p Stationery countries involved. UK nationals living and working abroad do not necessarily take Mobile phone top-ups up citizenship there, nor do EU nationals living and working in the UK necessarily take it up here. Our home and our present temporary location may not be the same. Dry cleaning service For Christians, this should not seem strange. In his letter to the early Christians at Philippi, Paul reminds us of this. Our citizenship is not of this world; we are here for a while to live and to work. In a very real sense, we are people living and working 179b High Street, Boston Spa Tel: 01937 845779 abroad in a land which will never be our final home. How are we to relate to it and influence it? Dennis DOUGLAS YEADON HARDWARE of BOSTON SPA Bobbins for all your DIY and household needs Ladies & Gents 169 High Street, Boston Spa Specialist Alteration Service Tel: 01937 842338 www.douglasyeadonhardware.co.uk 166 High Street, Boston Spa Tel: 01937 844722

– 16 – – 17 – British churches founded Christian Aid in 1945 to support refugees who had lost their homes and possessions in the Second World War. Twelve years later, Christian Aid Week was launched to help fund ongoing work and projects. BUILDERS This year’s Christian Aid Week focuses on refugees, reflecting on Christian Aid’s support for KIRBY MERCHANTS refugees since 1945. As part of that theme, Christian Aid highlights the story of Nejebar, who, with her family, fled horrors in Afghanistan where her husband was YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT MERCHANT threatened with torture and death for being a government worker. But having reached Greece, all they have now is a tent. Specialist supplier of natural landscaping materials Nejebar doesn’t have a safe place to call home including natural stone paving, decorative aggregates, Nejebar fled Afghanistan with her family after the Taliban threatened to killher husband, Noor, who was a teacher. It wasn’t an idle threat – the Taliban first blinded, hardwood sleepers and timber decking then murdered, another member of their family. When the family arrived at the refugee camp in Greece, they thought they would only stay for 10 days. But they’ve been v Reclaimed Building Stone there six months now and there’s no end in sight. The only protection they have against the wind and rain is their tent. There’s no v Logs and Kindling school for their children. Five-year-old Sudai, their youngest, is ill, but Nejebar and Noor don’t know what’s wrong with him because We’ve been v Bricks, Blocks, Sand and Cement they can’t communicate with the camp’s doctor, who is Greek. there for ‘The last days and weeks in Afghanistan were the hardest,’ refugees since v Driveway Block Paving says Noor. ‘When I went to work, my heart was beating harder. I 1945. We didn’t know if my family were going to be alive when I got back.’ won’t turn our v Timber, Plywood and Fencing backs now. Nejebar’s hope for the future v Insulation, Plasterboard and Plaster Nejebar is the rock at the centre of her family, holding them together throughout all this uncertainty. She has even welcomed Faraidoon and Farzad into the v Clothing, Tools, Fixings and Fasteners family, two brothers who don’t know where their parents are, or if they’re even alive. ‘We still have some hope for our children’s future,’ says Nejebar. ‘We only want a peaceful life. We want our children to go to school. The most important thing is our children.’ Christian Aid has been there for refugees like Nejebar for over 70 years, providing essential food, shelter and legal assistance for people far from home. Christian Aid is asking us this year to focus on the displaced. Please remember this family and many others throughout the world in our prayers now, but especially when we mark sixty years of Christian Aid this month. Our Christian values of tolerance and compassion are once again being tested as we consider our response to disasters, conflict and climate change. In his hymn ‘Beauty for brokenness’ [hymn 693], Graham Kendrick’s words express so well the suffering in our world… Inglebank, High Street, Boston Spa ‘God of the poor, friend of the weak, give us compassion we pray: melt our cold hearts, let tears fall like rain; come, change our love from a spark to a flame’ Tel: 01937 843493 Jim Murison www.kirbybuildersmerchants.co.uk There will be a united service at Boston Spa Methodist Church at 10.30am on Sunday 14th May to celebrate the start of Christian Aid Week.

– 18 – – 19 – Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan virgin appeared and took him into the building, where dwelt other attractive young ladies, who asked Christian why he travelled without his wife and children. Greatly saddened, 4. Christian stands before The Cross and ventures onwards the Pilgrim recounted as to how they were persuaded by neighbours to remain in the City The broad path which Christian now followed was fenced on either side with a wall called of Destruction and how he had encountered many who had likewise been persuaded Salvation. Up this way did Christian run, but not without great difficulty, because of the to diverge from the true path. After much discussion until the small hours, they each load upon his back until he came to a place with a cross, below which was a sepulchre. departed for their chambers, and Christian lay down to sleep. And just as he came upon the cross, the burden fell free from his back and rolled down The following morning, they talked more and seeing that Christian was preparing the slope to be swallowed up within the cavity of the sepulchre. to depart, offered to show him some of the treasures of the place. The first was the Thus lightened Christian cried out in joy, “He has given me rest by His sorrow, and pedigree of the Lord and so doing they opened a book in which were recorded the life by His death”. names and achievements of those who had served faithfully by such acts as overcoming Greatly surprised that the sight of the cross should bring such enormous relief, the fire, sword and many dangers and how, out of their weakness they had become valiant in spiritually renewed pilgrim stood in awe as his eyes filled and through the blur he saw routing armies of alien minded peoples. On the following day they led him to the armoury, three shining beings: “Peace be to thee” said the first, “Thy sins be forgiven” whilst the wherein they saw those articles by means of which the Lord had equipped them to serve. second stripped him of his rags and clothed him with a change of raiment; the third set a These include swords, shields, breastplates, helmets, shoes and every prayer; so much mark in his forehead and gave him a scroll with a seal upon it telling him to keep it with that none should go short of the means of support in the fight. him all the way to the Celestial City. After another good night’s sleep, Christian prepared to leave but once more the Then Christian leap for joy and went on his way singing a new song until he came young women implored him to stay another day in order that they might show him the upon three men sleeping; Simple, Sloth and Presumption, by name. Scoldingly, Christian Delectable Mountains which, they said, would be of great help and comfort on his bid them wake, saying that they were like a ship’s lookouts who slept whilst on watch and pilgrimage. Leading him up to the roof of the lodge they bid him look to the south, where were thus in great danger. Simple, replied that he could see no danger, Sloth claimed the he was able to gaze at an unbelievably splendid sight. There lay before him beautiful need for more sleep whilst Presumption bid Christian to mind his own business! woodlands, streams, waterfalls, flowers and many kinds of fruit. “What is the name of this Continuing on his journey, Christian espied two men called Formalist and Hypocrisy magnificente land” enquired Christian.“Immanuel’s Land” they replied in unison, and it is scrambling furtively over a wall. By way of conversation he enquired as to where they for all true pilgrims; but before you leave we must prepare you for your defence against were going and from whence they came. The two replied that they came from the land of those along your route who may seek to attack you. Vain-glory and were heading for the Celestial City. “But why did you not come in through Down in the armoury they dressed him in metal armour and accompanied by the Gate for did not Jesus say that those who did not use the gate were like thieves and Discretion, Piety, Charity and Prudence, he set forth for the mountain. The five then robbers?” The two explained that most people regarded the way via the door as long descended the Hill Difficulty into the Valley of Humiliation where Christian espied a foul and hard and that they could readily shorten their passage. After a lengthy discussion fiend called Apollyon. Terror struck the Pilgrim and he thought to turn tail and run away regarding the scriptural legalities of their entry, Christian told them of how he had been but remembering that the breastplate did not offer protection from the rear, he faced the reclothed at the gate and that a mark had been placed upon his forehead, a mark which monster which greatly resembled a scaled, winged dragon which belched smoke and they did not carry. On hearing this the two friends laughed and continued on their way flames. quite unperturbed by what Christian had told them. Claiming himself to be the Lord of the land to which Christian was heading, Apollyon, Presently Christian came upon a steep hill called Difficulty at the bottom of which through divers threats of great calamity, bid him abandon his adventure and join his evil was a spring. Here, Formalist and Hypocrisy took separate paths, one to the left called scheme for the domination of mankind, whereupon Christian proclaimed his loyalty to Danger and the other to the right named Destruction, thereby avoiding the steep hill up the one true Christ and caused the fiend to fly into a fearful rage. For half a day the two which Christian, after a refreshing drink, started his ascent. Up this hill, with many a fall, struggled and as Christian’s strength waned Apollyon made a desperate l effort to force did the dishevelled Christian haste until he arrived breathlessly at an arbour where the Christian to join him but again the Pilgrim replied “nay in all things we are more than Lord bid him rest a while. Soon the exhausted Pilgrim was sound asleep. conquerors through Him that loved us”. The evil creature then spread his wings and flew Presently, Christian awakened and refreshed, tackled the final stretch to the summit away, while Christian gave thanks to God for his deliverance from the devil. beyond which he came upon two lions. Filled with fear, he stopped and made as though ‘Hobgoblin, nor foul fiend, can daunt his spirit to retrace his steps whereupon the porter at a nearby lodge, perceiving that the chains He knows he at the end, shall life inherit. were hidden from the traveller addressed him, “is thy strength so small? – do not be afraid Then fancies flee away’ John Bunyan for they are chained and you will not be harmed”. Christian then enquired as to whether Condensed from an 1851 copy of the original by Arthur Faulkner he could spend the night at the lodge whereupon the porter called and a beautiful young (: David Bogue. London)

– 20 – – 21 – Spa Surgery ~ Patient Participation Group At the March meeting, Debbie Docherty, Practice Manager, gave an update on developments within the Practice with the arrival of Dr Louise Boyle as a salaried Are you looking for GP and Dr Imran Shaikh arriving this month as another salaried GP following the retirement of Dr Brady. A new Practice nurse will also be starting this month whose accommodation for background is in A&E and Paediatrics. In line with the National 5 Year Forward View programme in General Practices, over 60s? a number of new posts will be introduced to assist GPs in areas of mental health support workers, pharmacists, physiotherapists and physician’s assistants. Further information about these posts will be given in future reports. The Practice now has a lady who works for Connect Well who covers a range of topics including finance and social issues. Furthermore, all GP receptionists will be receiving training on ‘Care Navigation’ where patients will be asked to explain their symptoms so that they can be directed to the most appropriate clinician in order to receive their correct treatment. This will not always require or need an appointment with a GP but we are assured that whoever patients see, they will be looked after by a suitably qualified person. These changes will occur in the coming months and they are for our benefit which we shall appreciate as we come accustomed to them. Use of the patient online service is increasing but many more of us are urged to speak to a receptionist about signing up to use this service. A huge benefit in time saved and convenience to patients is to be gained and it is easy to use – if I can, you can! There remains a great concern for the number of patients who do not attend an Orchard House, Church Mews, Boston Spa appointment. If an appointment cannot be kept then patients must advise the surgery to give another patient the opportunity to take up your appointment. We are fortunate is a lovely development specifically to have a surgery in our village and we must all cooperate to avoid being removed from the list which can happen! designed for retired persons David Coates

Each apartment has its own kitchen, bathroom and living room, as well as the use of the communal lounge and laundry facilities. SKELF FRAMES LTD The scheme boasts a lively social calendar, including Picture framers with over 25 years’ experience fish and chip suppers, coffee mornings and bingo evenings. Unit 15a, Station Estate Please contact our Leeds office on Tadcaster LS24 9SG 01925 592600 Tel: 01937 530623 www.skelfframes.co.uk Your Housing Group is a Housing Association and is not for profit. There are no sign-up fees and tenancies are offered on an assured basis. Also find us at Wetherby market every Thursday

– 22 – – 23 – Spa Travel No Ordinary Travel Agent

“Passionate travel people for people passionate about travel...”

We have been in business now for over 30 years providing custom bespoke holidays and, while we embrace the latest technology, we believe just four simple words are the key to our continued success. Knowledge: Every member of staff is highly-trained and incredibly well-travelled: we believe that our clients deserve as much first-hand knowledge as possible and we are pleased to be able to give them just that. Experience: Our staff members are passionate about travel and regularly attend training events, conferences and educational overseas visits to increase our knowledge. Between us, we have more than 100 years’ experience in the industry. Service: We feel that clients who put their trust in us deserve the highest levels of personal service and, quite simply, that is what we give them. Anyone can use the internet to make a simple booking, but we aim to give much more and call on our own extensive knowledge, personal contacts, specialist operators and experience to get the right holiday for each individual client. Inspiration: Don’t know where to go? Not a problem: we love a challenge and, after consultation to establish your requirements, we will come up with a selection of suggestions to inspire you. Paul J Dayson Partner

85 High Street, Boston Spa 01937 845678 www.spa-travel.com