The Parish Magazine Is Available Electronically, Please Contact the Parish Office Or Speak to Your Distributor to Get Your Copy Via Email

THE PARISH MAGAZINE IS AVAILABLE ELECTRONICALLY, PLEASE CONTACT THE PARISH OFFICE OR SPEAK TO YOUR DISTRIBUTOR TO GET YOUR COPY VIA EMAIL

St Helen’s, Bilton-in-Ainsty  St John the Baptist, Healaugh  St John the Baptist, Hessay  All Saints, Moor Monkton  All Saints, Wighill

READINGS AND PSALMS FOR DECEMBER AND JANUARY YEAR A These are the readings taken from the Church Lectionary and are suggested as read on the following Sundays. They may be changed depending on the theme of the service. Sunday 1st December Isaiah 2:1-5 • Psalm 122 • Romans 13:11-14 • Matthew 24:36-44 Sunday 8thDecember Isaiah 11:1-10 • Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 • Romans 15:4-13 • Matthew 3:1-12 Sunday 15th December Isaiah 35:1-10 • Psalm 146:5-10 or Luke 1:46b-55 • James 5:7-10 • Matthew 11:2-11 Sunday 22nd December Isaiah 7:10-16 • Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 • Romans 1:1-7 • Matthew 1:18-25 Sunday 29th December Isaiah 63:7-9 • Psalm 148 • Hebrews 2:10-18 • Matthew 2:13-23

Sunday 5th January Jeremiah 31:7-14 or Sirach 24:1-12 • Psalm 147:12-20 or Wisdom of Solomon 10:15- 21 • Ephesians 1:3-14 • John 1:(1-9), 10-18 Sunday 12th January Isaiah 42:1-9 • Psalm 29 • Acts 10:34-43 • Matthew 3:13-17 Sunday 19th January Isaiah 49:1-7 • Psalm 40:1-11 • 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 • John 1:29-42 Sunday 26th January Isaiah 9:1-4 • Psalm 27:1, 4-9 • 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 • Matthew 4:12-23

CONTENTS Parish Letter 3 To All the Saints of the Diocese of York 5 Christenings 6 Wedding Blessings 8 Light a Candle this Christmas 9 “For is in giving that we receive” 11 Community Events in the Parish 13 RAYC and Loft 14 Special Events for Young People 15 Renew 17 Alpha 18 From the Registers 19 Survive to Thrive 20 Magazine News 21 Community News 21 Hessay Posada 26 A Church Near You 26 A Space for Prayer 27 Live Nativity Rehearsals 27 Yorkuleles 28 Kids Corner 29 St Mary’s Church of England Primary School 30 Nativities 32 Marston Moor Probus Club 34 Rainbows 35 Brownies 36 Classified adverts 36 Contacts 43 Events and Services in December 44

PARISH LETTER What to buy someone for Christmas? … and why I may not buy as many presents this year! I am sure, like me, you often hear the phrase at this time of year. “Well, I don’t know what to get him or her!” The giving of gifts at Christmas is important but it is so hard when we live in a society where we seem to have everything we need. Our gift-giving is often a chore, we scurry around ‘on-line’ or in the shops thinking ‘what on earth should I get them!’ Sometimes we just get caught up in the moment and buy something entirely inappropriate or wrong, that eventually will be added to the growing pile of junk destroying our planet, … I’ve certainly done that in the past. Our gift-giving can also become somewhat of a transaction. We feel obliged because ‘we always have and they always do’. Sometimes gifts are given without any thought. “Well we always buy them a bottle of their favourite tipple”. Or “I’ve just slipped the usual £10 note into their card”. There is that saying “It’s the thought that counts!” but this saying doesn’t say how much thought gets us over the line for our present to be a true gift. So, what do you give to someone who has everything, or seems not to need another ornament on the mantelpiece, socks in the drawer or bottle in the cupboard? If we look at this from another perspective … What would we give God as a gift? Does a God of everything need anything?

…. the answer is YES

Our God, of unconditional love, longs for our gift of love. How do we know this? Well that is what Christmas is all about.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” John 3:16

When we show love to God and others it doesn’t change how much God loves us, but it does please God. Each and every gift we give this Christmas is a true gift if given with love and when we share love, we please God. We could take this further by cutting out completely the risk of an unnecessary gift and go straight for an unconditional act of loving kindness. Or maybe that’s too hard and a £10 note slipped into a card is enough! It’s not the ‘thought that counts’ it’s the ‘love that counts’. We wish you all a joyful, blessed Christmas. May you all be filled and share with others the gift of God’s love. In Christ Richard PS – This Christmas Our Christmas services this year offer something for everyone. From the quite and contemplative to carol singing in every village. This year we have introduced a Midnight Mass at All Saints, Wighill (24th Dec at 11.30pm) , this evocative service is extra special and worth the late night! All Saints, Wighill will also be hosting the Ainsty Choir for their annual carol service (which was re- introduced last year). The season of Advent and Christmas will begin on Friday 29th as we try something new and invite you all to “Light a Candle for Christmas” (see page 9 for more details). At Hessay, weather permitting, I am sure that we will enjoy a Christmas procession from the Chapel to the Church as part of our Nativity and Carol service. Something to enjoy as a village and a Parish. Everything about Christmas has a special feel and some services form a regular part of what we are and do. The Nativity and Christingle on Christmas Eve at All Saints, Moor Monkton is always important and popular. Do come along. Christmas would also not be Christmas without our Live Nativity at St John the Baptist, Healaugh and this again returns on the 23rd and 24th December.

Our Christmas celebrations will culminate in a 10.30am Christmas Day service for the whole parish, at St Helen’s, Bilton. A wonderful time to celebrate the birth of Christ, together as a parish-wide family. I also make a promise that, unlike last year when we were a bit overwhelmed with the number of people coming, this service will be kept to an hour (although we may have some festive refreshments at the end). This means we can all get home and enjoy our Christmas Lunches! Finally, over the Christmas period, Radio York are following what we are getting up to. Each week I will be recording what is going on in our Parish for broadcast, which I think will happen on their Sunday Morning show!

Lucy, Myself, Churchwardens and all those in our Church family look forward to welcoming one another and you to our Churches over the festive season. See page 44 for service details

TO THE SAINTS OF THE DIOCESE OF YORK Introducing chaplaincy life? Where are our Mustard Seed opportunities to grow? Is our giving realistic and is it truly a prayerful You’ll already response to God’s goodness? know all about Our goals aren’t just about special our Diocese’s initiatives. But we are about to move goals, I’m sure! forward with a new focused venture in mission called Mustard Seed, and we’re applying for national funding to extend — Reaching people we currently its reach. Mustard Seed faces the fact that in don’t, moving to growth both in places of deprivation (of finance, numbers and in discipleship, health, opportunity and more) a very and establishing sustainable small proportion of people have giving based on a vision for contact with the church or join in its mission. life. Mustard Seed will have two main Let’s remember, these goals came out actions. The first is to run Stepping of a big consultation exercise across the Up — equipping people to show and Diocese. We can all engage with them, share the love of Christ in their whoever and wherever we are. Let’s communities. There’ll be a one-year ask: Who isn’t part of our parish or mission apprentice scheme, with some 5

people going on to Stepping Up Two, Initially we are concentrating on the a local leadership programme. urban areas of our Diocese, but it The second action is to would be wonderful to see the have Ambassadors — people with a experience of Stepping Up extending connection to places with deprivation, to our smaller communities where we but based elsewhere, encouraging an know there is deprivation, though it’s interchange of prayer, energy and often less easy to see. giving. It’s early days and it will be next year The intention is that we shall before we know whether we will get see Community Hubs — places that the full funding we are applying for. offer welcome and practical support, Please pray for Mustard Seed, and for combined with opportunities to people to find welcome, hope, joy and explore and develop faith, and where fresh purpose through a living Jesus is at the heart of everything that relationship with Jesus. happens. + Paul Whitby CHRISTENINGS

This year, across the Parish, it has been a joy to see so many Christenings taking place. We thought it may be useful to explain a bit about what a Childhood Christening means: Your child is precious to you and precious to God. You want the very best for them, and so does God. You want them to make right choices in life, for themselves and for others. A christening is just the beginning of this and so much more. Over the years to come, it’s a journey you’ll share together with your child by:  Being there for your child to talk to about the bigger questions of life – questions about hope, faith and love.  Praying for your child through the ups and downs of their faith journey.  Showing them practically how to make those good choices in life.  Helping them to learn more about their Christian faith, through their church and in other ways Christening’s are about making a commitment to start as you mean to go on.

A Christening is also a time to celebrate and welcome your Child into the Christian family of love and faith. It is also an important rite of passage for the child and the whole family. It is a celebration of life and love. If you are considering a christening we are here to guide and support you through this and through the christening service (which is often part of the usual Sunday morning service). Both Lucy and I make the service special and memorable for you, your Godparents, family and friends. If you are considering a Christening please do contact us (contact details can be found on the back pages of the magazine). We are also happy to discuss Adult baptisms, a wonderful experience where promises are made and people are welcomed into the Church. People are never too old to be baptised! Finally, many people ask me what the fee is for a Christening. I am very pleased to say that, rightly, there is no charge for a Christening (this has always been the case and is a church rule). A Christening is a time for welcome, with no conditions or barriers.

WEDDING BLESSINGS

Over the years I have had the joyful privilege of blessing the marriage of husband and wife.

These services may have taken place shortly after a civil ceremony or many years later, perhaps at a significant milestone or perhaps for other reasons. Whatever the reasons it is always an absolute joy to see two people acknowledge and rededicate their union, asking for God’s blessings and guidance for the future.

These relatively simple services can have the look and feel of a wedding with hymns or contemporary worship songs, readings, flowers and bells. Alternatively, they can be more intimate and lower key. Fundamentally the service is about love and reflects the love between two people.

A few years ago, these services were often held for couples, where one or both parties, had previously been married. The blessing usually following a civic service. However, as the practice in our Church is, following discussions, to remarry divorcees, this is now not usually the case.

There are no set fees for such a service, but we do ask for a voluntary donation for the work and mission of the church.

If this speaks to you just contact Lucy or Richard for a chat.

LIGHT A CANDLE THIS CHRISTMAS It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Or so the song goes. I know that the reality of this can, to a lot of people, fall well short of this. Christmas can be a really hard time. - We remember loved ones who have died, either in the last year or whose memories are never far from our hearts and minds. - We struggle with the pressure of expectation, pressure we may load on ourselves or the pressure placed on us by others. - We prefer the day to day rhythms and the security that brings, as opposed to the unexpected or the way in which Christmas disturbs our balance. - Christmas may be an intensely lonely time. Everyone else seems to be with others, whereas we may be the one in an empty house, or even feeling lonely in a crowded room. Struggling as we watch TV, with fake smiles, fellowship and laughter. - We feel the pressure of spending more time than usual with family and friends, and the potential claustrophobia or stress that may result. - Financial burdens and worries may rise and eat away at our ability to enjoy Christmas Christmas places an emphasis on being of “Good Cheer” it equally and unwittingly can bring an emphasis on “Sadness and Loneliness”. Jesus said “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 We know of Christ’s promise reading scripture, by talking to others, in prayer and in finding a moment of sacred piece. In doing this we can lay worries and regrets down and get a right perspective, find a new way through the challenge of Christmas. As a Church we want to help …. we are here to do this, supporting the communities we serve. To open the Christmas season, we are holding a time where all our Church buildings will be open from 3pm to 7pm on Friday 29th November. We invite you to come and spend time either on your own, with others or with myself or Lucy in our Churches. To light a candle and give to God your worries, concerns and prayers for the forthcoming Christmas season. 9

Both Lucy and I will be moving between each Church, so it is up to you whether you would like to arrange to be there with others or visit when we are present, or just use the time for a personal visit, on your own. Details of when Lucy and myself will be there are as follows: 3pm to 7pm on Friday 29th Lucy will be at Richard will be November … at … All Saints, Moor Monkton 4.40 - 5.20 pm 3.00 - 3.40pm St John the Baptist, Hessay 5.30 - 6.10pm 3.50 - 4.30pm St Helen’s, Bilton with 3.50 - 4.30pm 6.20 - 7.00pm Bickerton St John the Baptist, Healaugh 6.20 - 7.00pm 4.40 - 5.20 pm All Saints, Wighill 3.00 - 3.40pm 5.30 - 6.10pm

We remember that, as Christmas approaches, a Church is based on relationships and we support one another. Both Lucy and I are here for you over and above the times above. If you would like a visit just to chat or to pray, we will be there (our contact details are towards the back of the parish magazine). Never feel we are too busy to spend time with others and talk! May your Christmas be a time to know the peace of Christ

“For it is in giving that we receive” St Francis

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”. Luke 12.34

Our Church is flourishing and its fruitfulness is fundamentally based on love, shown through spiritual and physical generosity. Spiritual generosity ensures that our God of Love is at the centre of everything we are and do. It is from this Spirit of generosity that acts of generosity flow. As Christians we are naturally generous because of the love we have. When we undertake acts of generosity, we …  … recognise that we are blessed by God and that all things ultimately come from God. In ‘gifting back’ a proportion of what we have we acknowledge this, we are ploughing our blessings back in, so ourselves and others may be lifted and supported by our growing community and family of God.  … show that we have a balanced approach to what we have, not letting money and possessions overwhelm us.  … commit some of what we have to God’s work, demonstrating that we are investing our interests, and ultimately our hearts into God’s work. We are more likely to be interested and want to be a part of a Church when we have contributed to its success. At the moment, at every Church service there is the opportunity to contribute to the work of our Church and I know there is a willingness to do so. However, I know that in this increasing cashless society we scrabble around when the collection plate comes around, somewhat embarrassed, looking for that elusive bit of money! I have frequently been in that position. Sunday morning giving on the collection plate is great but it is also far easier for our Church to accept direct, planned gifts straight into our Bank Account.

What is Planned Giving?

Planned Giving means regular giving, giving the same amount each month, by Direct Debit or Standing Order. Regular giving helps us to take stock, ask

11 ourselves how important God and the church are in our lives, and how we reflect that in what we plan to give.

Planned Giving ensures that we put by enough each week or month to support the things we believe are good and worthwhile – it means our giving is planned from the start as a priority, rather than thinking about it only after we’ve paid all the bills, or what’s left at the bottom of our purses. God should be the first on our list. Our planned giving reveals our priorities, where our heart is, and our faith.

How is my gift put to use?

The cost of running our mission and our five Church buildings amounts to over £80,000 per year, although this does change from year to year according to any restoration work that we undertake on our buildings. Over and above restoration costs your gift goes towards building utility costs, insurance, building maintenance, administration, legal costs (copyright licenses … etc), diocesan support costs, clergy costs and the actual cost of running the mission …. the list is long.

How can I help?

Recently, in order to bring a clearer picture and better governance we have established a new bank account for the whole of the Parish. This is the account has been set up to allow people to show and exercise their generosity. Any regular planned gifts made into this account will be treated with utmost discretion. The details of this account are:

Bank: Reliance Bank

Sort Code: 60-01-73

Ac No: 00219655

I pray that we are blessed by generous hearts, and that the spirit of generosity flows throughout our Parish so we, in turn, can be generous to others.

In Christ Richard

COMMUNITY EVENTS IN THE PARISH

Wednesday 4th December 12.15pm Community Lunch, Wighill

Saturday 14th December 10.00am – 11.45am Coffee Morning, Hessay

Saturday 21st December 10.00am -12.00pm Community Café, Healaugh Memorial Hall

Saturday 11th January 10.00am-11.45am Coffee Morning, Hessay

Saturday 18th January 10.00am-12.00pm Community Café, Healaugh Memorial Hall

Tots Groups in term time, Hessay Tots meet on Tuesdays, 9.30am-11.30am in Hessay Methodist Chapel, and Moor Monkton Tots meet on Thursdays 10.00am- 11.30am in The Old Schoolroom, Moor Monkton

For more details on any of the above activities please email [email protected] or call Revd Richard

SUNDAY 8th DECEMBER THE OLD SCHOOL ROOM MOOR MONKTON AT 6.00PM

“A service that has a steady, contemplative rhythm with pockets of stillness.” The simple format offers an experience of worship that is multisensory, creative and contemplative. We hope it will be a blessing for those searching for peace in this busy world. Rev Lucy

ALPHA

Do you ever have big questions about life?

 Where do we go when we die?  Is there more to life than this?  How does faith fit in with 2019?

Then Alpha is for you. Our first course started on 14th November, 7.30am, at the Old Hall, Healaugh. Each week we share a free meal, drinks, a short film and lots of opportunities to question. If you want to find out more or would like to come along please contact: [email protected], call or text 07596 599386.

The next date is 12th December followed by a break for Christmas.

What is Alpha? Alpha is a series of sessions exploring the Christian faith. Each talk looks at a different question around faith and is designed to create conversation. Alpha is run all around the globe, and everyone's welcome. It runs in cafés, churches, universities, homes and now in Rural Ainsty. No two Alphas look the same, but generally they have three key things in common: food, a talk and good conversation.

First up there's … Food Whether it's a group of friends gathered around a kitchen table, or a quick catch up over coffee and cake, food has a way of bringing people together. It's no different at Alpha. Most sessions start with food because it's a great way to build community and get to know each other.

Then a … Talk The talks are designed to engage and inspire conversation. Usually around thirty minutes long and delivered over about eleven weeks, they can be given as a live talk or played as a video. They explore the big issues around faith and unpack

the basics of Christianity, addressing questions from Who is Jesus? and How can we have faith? to Why and how do I pray? and How does God guide us?

Followed by … Discussion Probably the most important part of any Alpha: the chance to share thoughts and ideas on the topic, and simply discuss it in a small group. There's no obligation to say anything and there's nothing you can't say (seriously). It's an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly and open environment.

FROM THE REGISTERS

WEDDING Shannon Leary and Kane Lebad-Riley All Saints, Wighill Saturday 23rd November

FUNERAL Stephen Wright St John the Baptist, Healaugh Monday 11th November

FUNERAL June Richardson St Helen, Bilton in Ainsty Wednesday 13th November

SURVIVE TO THRIVE

November 4th 2019 was special as we hosted again a group of wonderful young people who are refugees. This time most of the group were from Ecuador and had been trafficked.

Fiona, who lives in Wighill, has made a great connection with the work of The British Red Cross, based in Leeds. The Red Cross partner with local communities who are well set to offer opportunities for fun and relaxation for those vulnerable young people in their care.

Under the umbrella of Survive to Thrive, we have spent enjoyable time, eating together, playing football and other games, and this time we had a bonfire with some toasted marshmallows!

Their young people met with our older youth group and we all had fun trying to communicate. We had a smattering of Spanish and yet they were much better at English. We found that smiling, along with sign language of sorts is great when you’re not sure of the exact words!!

Both groups of young people enjoyed meeting up and it was brilliant to offer hospitality and show genuine care for those who have so little.

If you would like to be a part of these types of projects please let Richard, Fiona or Lucy know via the parish admin email address.

MAGAZINE NEWS THANK YOU Thanks to everyone that has renewed their magazine subscriptions for the year. Subscriptions are £5 for the year. Please contact the Parish office if you are not sure how to pay. GOING PAPERLESS For environmental reasons, we are moving towards more electronic distribution of the Parish magazine. If you can receive the magazine by email it could save a considerable amount of paper and ink. Each month we produce over 260 copies of the magazine, using 10 double sided A4 pages at least. Over 2600 pages each month. We are very grateful for your continued involvement in its production, giving us your news items and sharing your advertisements. If you would like to receive the Parish magazine as an electronic copy, and don’t already do so, please email Lisa at [email protected] or call her on 07596 599386. COMMUNITY NEWS

SPECIAL APPEAL TO ALL DOG OWNERS We have had continued complaints about dogs being exercised in our church yard. The actions of a few are continuing to cause distress to both church visitors and other members of the public. We would therefore respectfully request that the church yard is not used as a playground to exercise your dog. Dogs on short leads, confined to the paths are welcome, please respect this request in consideration to the bereaved and others who want to use this space for quiet reflection with loved ones no longer with us.

EAST WINDOW REPAIRS AT ALL SAINTS, WIGHILL We are making slow progress with this project, Faculty Application and further grant applications are on- going. Meanwhile we need to carry on with our fundraising efforts.

DECEMBER ROTA AT ALL SAINTS, WIGHILL Flowers: No flowers in Advent. Christmas Flowers Mrs Morrell Cleaning: Mrs Morrell WHITE SWAN WEDNESDAYS 4TH DECEMBER Yes, it’s nearly Christmas and although there are three celebratory lunches at the White Swan on Mondays in December, we will still have the opportunity to celebrate with our WWW friends on Wednesday 4th December! 12.15 as usual. Val will contact you to for your lunch orders on Friday 29th November. Warmest wishes to everyone. Or if you want to come for the first time and are not on the contact list please contact the parish office (contact details on page 43). Prior to the lunch you are also invited to a simple 30 minute communion, led by either Rev Richard or Rev Lucy. A peaceful service in the middle of the week. VACUUM CLEANER We have had a Dyson vacuum cleaner donated to the church in Wighill. We already have a vacuum cleaner, so if this would be of use to anyone please get in touch for further details at [email protected] or ring Janice on 01937 530652. SUMMER CHURCH OPENING A big thank you to everyone who helped to have the church open at weekends during the summer, this year quite a few people appear to have visited us.

LEP COFFEE MORNING Saturday 14th December and Saturday 11th January 2019, 10.00am – 11.45am, Hessay Chapel

Cake Stall, Produce and Preserves Bric a brac, Books and Craft The LEP Coffee Morning is held on the second Saturday of every month for the benefit of the three churches in the Hessay and Moor Monkton LEP. Thank you to everyone who supports this event. All welcome!

COFFEE MORNING FOR HEALAUGH AND CATTERTON Please join us for a coffee and catch up at the home of Lisa Brookman. Blacksmith Cottage, Main Street, Healaugh.

CHATTERBOX REFLECTIONS AND NEWS, OCTOBER/NOVEMBER/DECEMBER As we approach the end of our first year it is perhaps a good time for reflection. The Chatterbox venture was born from a pastoral initiative led by Rev Lucy Brencher in November 2018. Lucy was looking into ways of bringing people together, how to address need of all types, for all ages and in ways that would make a lasting impact. If we as a team could interrupt ‘loneliness’ for some, provide companionship for others it would be a start. Bickerton residents

23 did not disappoint, they came along and found their friendly HELLO made all the difference to someone else. Our first gathering was in December of last year. Bickerton villagers met at Linda and Johns, ‘Acorn House’ for mince pies and a cuppa’. There was lots of conversation about future village venues, entertainment, speakers, educational visits and more... the list is endless. We soon realised an opportunity was needed for people, not just to gather each month for coffee but also to be part of a group, for activities/outings. By discussing our ‘likes,’ experiences were shared and entertainment/tours/speakers were organised, friendships have been made and may long it continue. Chatterbox is a Bickerton village initiative but we have been delighted to welcome people from all parts of the wider parish on our outings and events. It is through the generosity of the Rural Ainsty Parish that we use St Helen’s Church when a larger venue is needed; this has made much of what we do possible. We are grateful to the previous PCC at St Helen for its forethought in introducing the toilet/kitchenette facility. Without the finance and commitment from the PCC, local people, other charities and the Parish Council, this addition would not have been possible. We are be all set for our Christmas activities and off to a fine start with a joyous evening on Friday 6th December 7.30pm at St Helen’s in the company of the York Ukulele Band. Taste your first homemade Mince pies of the season accompanied by a festive beverage. We do hope you will join us on this the first of our Christmas activities, with the chance to sing along to some well-known Christmas favourites. Tickets available at just £5 from Susie and the Team. Also, on Friday the 20th December we will have our village carol singing followed by Mince pie and Mulled wine at Trevor and Margaret Grants house. Our grateful thanks to Trevor and Margaret for hosting this event. If you prefer not to join us for the carol singing, the mulled wine and mince pie invitation is still on offer so please come along, Margaret and Trevor will be delighted to see you. Suggestions for next year’s outings/activities – Comments appreciated. Tour of Allerton Park Castle, probably after Easter (April) Visit to Beatrice Wright Centre for hearing dogs. Thursdays (max 20). Road to Pocklington. Alistair to investigate a trip in April, May.

Leventhorpe Wines visit and Yorkshire Heart Nun Monkton visits. Alistair to investigate evening visits in the summer. Beningborough Home Farm Lunch. Linda has investigated, and a group visit has been pencilled in, £7.50 for a two-course lunch at 12m on Wednesday 18 March as a pre-Mother’s Day celebration, you don’t really need an excuse, inform Linda by January 10th 2020 if you are intending to come along. More reminders WILL follow. Bickerton open gardens (Chill! weeds are good, they are natures flowers) let us know if you think this could be of interest to you and you are willing to open your garden? Pantomime York January 2021 we will look out for offers! suggestion from Margaret Rogers. Other group outings for Wetherby cinema or theatre can be arranged if enough interest. Visit to Barley Hall York, town house of the 15th century Snawsell family from Bilton. Beginners Bridge contact Linda if this ‘floats your boat’. Grass bowls still possible rain meant we had to cancel this year, Sorry! Fashion Show we are still looking into. CPR and work a Defibrillator session run by Paramedic Geoff Farnworth. He is getting back to Joyce. We have a chatterbox WhatsApp group, names to Dianne Middleton. If you have neighbours who would like to receive the ‘Bickerton Chatterbox’ newsletter, or discontinue it, please ask them to contact Susie. If you have any suggestions please also inform Susie [email protected] or any of the team. Best wishes Karen, Susie, Joyce and Linda

A CHURCH NEAR YOU You can access information about services and events in our Parish on A Church Near You website, www.achurchnearyou.com In the last year our churches received 4205 visits through the website. Through the website not only can you find out about services and events, but you can also download the Weekly God Thoughts and current issues of our Parish magazine.

A SPACE FOR PRAYER …

We are currently looking at when, where and how we can offer more opportunities for quiet time and prayer across our Parish and in our Churches. Opening our Churches on certain days, early in the morning or later in the day. We have a wonderful opportunity to create space for well-being, mindfulness, contemplation and at the heart of this … prayer. If you have any ideas or would like to be involved, please let myself or Lucy know. Do look out for further notices on this … Richard

KIDS CORNER

St. Mary’s Church of England

Primary School

At St. Mary’s we aim to provide an environment for all members of our school community where positive attitudes to learning and creativity are promoted and valued within the context of Christian belief and practice.

Core Christian Values: Compassion, Friendship, Koinonia and Trust

Christian Values: Forgiveness Each half-term we focus on a different Christian value. This half term our Christian value is Forgiveness. Forgive us our sins, as we also forgive everyone who sins against us. Luke 11:4 Mrs Cooper’s Award Mrs Cooper’s Award is a very special award that is presented every half term to a child who has displayed outstanding personal qualities and Christian values. The award for the first half-term was presented to Jack. Mrs Beighton chose Jack because of his support of others and putting them before himself — very well-done Jack! Harvest Service Thank you to all of you who were able to join us for our Harvest Service. The children impressed us all with their performing, singing and speaking throughout the service. Thank you for your kind donations which have been split between St Mary’s Church and Christian Aid. Remembrance Day We held our Remembrance Service for children and staff on Monday 11th November. Children wore their poppies with pride and each class presented work that they had been creating. This year we remembered all those who had served in wars and battles fighting for our freedom. This included recognition of the support from other countries around Europe, the Commonwealth and the world. Anti-Bullying Week As part of Anti-Bullying Week we delivered an assembly around this year’s theme of ‘Change starts with us’. The children will also be carrying out follow up work in class during the week.

Children in Need

This year Children in Need takes place on Friday 15th November. To raise money for this great cause, the School Council have planned a book fair and are making jelly to sell to the children – and staff! – across school. Friends of St Mary’s (FOSM) A huge thank you to FOSM for all the hard work that they do for our children. The Film Night was a great success so thank you to all who organised the event and helped supervise the children. The money raised will be spent on further resources for the children throughout school. Reception places for 2020-2021 Applications for Reception places starting September 2020 at St. Mary’s can now be made. This can be done either online at www.york.gov.uk/schooladmissions or alternatively you may request a paper ‘Primary Application Form’ from the Admissions Team on 01904 551554 or email: [email protected]. All applications must be made before 15th January 2020. Applicants will be advised of their allocated school on National Offer Day, which is 16th April, 2020. Class 3 News - Experience Church Day 4th November 2019 was the day all four classes from St. Mary’s went to church, but this article is about Class 3’s visit. We found out lots of interesting things.

Firstly, there was the font. The font is a pillar with a stone dish on top where the vicar, during the baptism, scoops up some water with a shell and puts it onto the person’s head. Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist in the water of the River Jordan. We folded up paper that said ‘Welcome’ and then we dropped them in the font. They unfolded slowly in the water.

Next, we wrote two prayers, one for us and one for someone else. We learnt that prayers can be said with eyes closed so we are closer to God. We also learnt about the altar and a special service called The Eucharist. Did you know a paten is the piece of bread used in this service?

Finally, we made our stained-glass windows.

It was a really exciting and interesting morning. Thank you, Reverend Martin, Lindy and Ann.

By Ralph and Freddie

MARSTON MOOR PROBUS CLUB At the Club’s meeting on Tuesday 29th October 2019 Mr Ashley Watson welcomed back Jeff Jacklin to give his second talk on the National Health Service, “Life in the NHS Part 2 “. Jeff divided his talk into four sections, The NHS Today, Hospitals, A&E, and The Future. The NHS is now over 70 years old, employs 1.3 million people, costs £140 billion per year of which 75% is staff costs and has to recruit one third of its staff from overseas. In the last 30 years the number of hospital beds have halved which is a measure of the improved treatment regimes now used. Jeff added that waiting lists may be long but it is the time a person that is on it, that matters. Targets for treatments are set nationally and the Hospital Trusts’ success are available in the public domain. Jeff gave some figures for our local hospitals. He said that I in 5 attending A&E are admitted to hospital and ¾ of the people in hospital come through the emergency route. Not everyone follows the recommended method of seeking help which depending on the circumstances is meant to be Self Care: NHS Phone 111: a Pharmacist: GP: NHS Walk in Centre and finally A&E. Looking to the future newer techniques and drugs plus the use of automation and artificial intelligence will all play a part in improving all aspects of the NHS. Jeff’s talk included power point and some amusing videos to lighten a serious talk. Jeff was thanked after some questions. The Club normally meets on the morning of the last Tuesday of the month in Long Marston Village Hall, which has a good car park. The December meeting is at The Bridge Inn, Walshford. New members and guests are welcome, contact the Secretary, Mr Bob Ellis on 01423 358 393.

RAINBOWS NEWS Rainbows - a fun and exciting programme for girls aged five to seven

1st Askham Bryan Rainbows meet in the Village hall in Askham Bryan. Girls come from villages including; Catterton, Healaugh, Wighill, Rufforth, Askham Bryan and Appleton Roebuck. The Rainbows are looking forward to a ride on the Santa Special from Pickering and meeting the man in red himself, in December. We are have a waiting list for girls not yet 5. Rainbows is all about developing self- confidence, building friendships, learning new things and having fun. Girls get their hands dirty with arts and crafts, get in touch with nature and play games - it's all about learning by doing. Contact Lisa Brookman at [email protected]. Call or text 07979505067 for more details and to register your daughter’s interest.

1st Askham Bryan Brownies are looking for new members! We are a friendly and active unit who welcome girls between the ages of 7 and 10 from Askham Bryan and surrounding villages. We have a waiting list for girls not yet 7, and spaces for those aged 7–10 years. To find out more and register interest, please contact Rebecca Kramm on 07894663336 or [email protected]

 Dry Seasoned Firewood in Bulk or Nets for Stoves and Open Fires (moisture tested)  Kiln dried logs also available  Kindling  Wood Briquettes (wood shavings hydraulically compressed for use on Open Fires, Stoves & Chimineas)  Trade/ Retail/Domestic/Pubs/Hotels/Farm Shops/Garden Centres/pet stores etc. (Bulk or small orders)  Delivered direct to you  Reliable Friendly Service  Competitive Prices Contact Guy Pears on 01937 830700/07931 566811

email: [email protected] www.acgwoodfuels.co.uk www.facebook.com/acgwoodfuelsuk/

Moor Monkton’s own Pop up Pub ‘The Merry Monk’ is open for business on the last Friday of each month in the Old Schoolroom.

Doors open at 7pm, there is draft beer from The Yorkshire Heart Brewery on tap, fine wines, lagers, soft drinks, snacks and a fish and chip supper. Or simply bring your own favourite tipple if you prefer. Usual pub games to amuse and entertain and any profits go to village charities.

Why not come along and catch up with the neighbours you hardly ever see? E-mail [email protected] or look on www.moormonkton.com for more details.

PARISH OF RURAL AINSTY CONTACTS Priest: The Revd Richard Battersby The Vicarage, Main Street, Healaugh LS24 8DB Tel: 07795 302119 or 01937 830933 Email: [email protected] Richard is always easily contactable but does usually try to keep each Monday as his day off, so please bear that in mind. Curate: The Revd Lucy Brencher Tel: 07940 514492 Email: [email protected] Rural Ainsty Office: 07596 599386 [email protected] Methodist Minister Moor Monkton and Hessay The Revd Ian Hill. 98 Main Street, Upper Poppleton Tel: 01904 788033 Church Wardens Bilton in Ainsty with Bickerton Vacancy- please contact Revd Richard with enquiries Healaugh with Catterton Mrs Priscilla Smith 01937 833248 Mr Jon Brookman 07884 232935 Moor Monkton and Hessay Mrs Kathryn Wright 01904 738498 Wighill Mrs Janice Quinn 01937 530652 Dr Mark Denyer 01937 835632 Parish Administrator Mrs Lisa Brookman 07596 599386 [email protected]

RURAL AINSTY PARISH NEWS Please keep your contributions coming in! The deadline for items to be included in the February issue is 15th January 2020 email to [email protected] Handwritten and verbal news can also be accepted, please ring Lisa Brookman, on 07596 599386. Blacksmith Cottage, Main Street, Healaugh LS24 8DB For advertising in the magazine, please contact Lisa as above

Services and Events in December Sun 1st Healaugh Family Breakfast 9.15am Hessay Chapel Service 9.30am Wighill Holy Communion 11.00am Hessay Christmas Messy Church 4.00pm Wed 4th Wighill Mid-Week communion – 11.30am Sun 8th Healaugh Parish Confirmation Service 10.30am Healaugh 6 O'clock Praise 6.00pm Moor Monkton Renew 6.00pm Fri 13th RAYC Christmas Party 5.00pm Sun 15th Wighill Christingle 9.30am Healaugh Communion 11.00am Bilton Carol Service 4.00pm Moor Monkton Carol Service 7.00pm Mon 16th Healaugh and Catterton Carol Singing meet at the Memorial 6.00pm

Tues 17th Moor Monkton meet at the Old School rooms Carol Singing 6.00pm Hessay Carol Singing from 5.00pm at Corriedale, The Fold. Singing from 6.00pm Wed 18th Bilton Carol Singing meet at the church 6.00pm Thurs 19th Wighill Carol Singing meet at the noticeboard 6.00pm Fri 20th Bickerton Carol Singing meet at the noticeboard, Holly Cottage Main Street 6.00pm Hessay Carols and Celebration of New Piano 2.00pm Sat 21st Hessay Nativity Procession and Carols by Candlelight 4.00pm or 4.30pm at the Church Sun 22nd Bilton Christingle 9.30am Healaugh Carols and Christingle 11.00am Wighill Carol Service with Ainsty Choir 6.00pm Mon 23rd Healaugh Live Nativity 6.00pm Tues 24th Moor Monkton Christingle 2.00pm Healaugh Live Nativity 4.30pm Wighill Midnight Mass 11.30pm Wed 25th Bilton Joint Christmas Celebration Service 10.30am Sun 29th Healaugh Joint Parish Service 10.30am

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