While I've been off with the flu I've been watching Richard and Judy. Anyone who watches the show will know they have a book club/review type thingy. Could we start a similar thing on the forum? Books could be Christian or not whatever you like as all can throw up interesting points for discussion.
I've recently read The Heavenly Man by Brother Yun a Chinese christian who was imprisoned and brutally tortured for his faith. A barrell of laughs I bet you're all thinking but despite the many horrible things that happened it spoke to me of how God can be with you and work miracles even in the most difficult of cicumstances. Also it came across how human Brother Yun was and how anyone can have a relationship with God hearing directly from Him although I'm sure many of us (me included) feel like we could do with a spiritual hearing aid. Have you read any good books lately? Have you read this one and if so what did you think?

War on Want are having an excellent valentine's campaign to help people in Africa who pick and grow the flowers for valentine's day and other special occaisions. These people often work in terrible conditions and have little or no protection against the pesticides and chemicals used on the flowers. For an ethical and thoughtful valentines gift log onto http://www.waronwant.org/valentines and give a fiver for the flower growers rather than some overpriced roses to your paramour. Any other inventive valentine's suggestions?

Not even I'm that holy  Tee Hee. I did give up TV last year which mean't I had loads of time to do really useful things but I must say it nearly killed me. It so nice to have someone else on the forum. I was beginning to think I was alone and unloved

Hi Dr Simmy glad to see the forum up and running again.  On the question of Lent, are you thinking of giving up CHOCOLATE for lent this year? 

The vicar seems to have taken you up on your most excellent idea in the rogues gallery in the porch. I've been in the church years and I still find it difficult to remember peoples names.
At a church I went to in Cambridge they had a welcome pack with info about the church for visitors which they used to give out at each service. It mean't visitors had to be quite brave and put their hand up to get one but at least everyone knew they were new and could say hello. We could even use chocolate as an incentive. I know it would work for me!
Also once a month the visitors could go to lunch after the service. This was quite good as there were lots of students but I'm sure these ideas could be adapted.

Hello Chicken and welcome although this is a little late
The forum used to be buzzing but I think people have forgotten about the website so I've asked it to be put in the church notices to remind people so our online community can return to it's former glory.

I was reading my copy of Activate magazine when I came across an article about the C of E lent campaign "Love life live Lent". It's a booklet and website that gives inspiration for simple things people can do to spread a little happiness and generosity in their community during Lent and is particularly aimed at people who wouldn't normally go to church. It looks great. On this theme what's the weirdest thing you've ever done or given up for Lent?

Congratulations to Joe and Jean and everyone who helped with yesterday evening's Carol Praise service.

What a brilliant do.

I received many positive comments from people as they left but, knowing Joe, he won't be happy unless God uses the service to bring people into a relationship with Jesus Christ. So, let's continue to pray for all those who heard the message of the service.

A big thank you to Joe and Jean for all your efforts.

 

Hellooo too. Nice to have another perosn to chat to! It is new forum so people not cottoned on I think but hey! It'll happen.

Hi Helen

Welcome to our website.

We'll pray for you as you seek God's will regarding church.

Yes, the website is a newish setup and as we have not had a forum for a long while it is taking time for people to know its back. But, it is happening 

"Online community" is a good phrase.

Hope to hear from you again.