(Note: the Newsletter can also be downloaded as a PDF.)
A warm welcome to
The Parish of Christ Church, Lancaster
for Sunday 18th January 2026 Second Sunday of Epiphany
Vicar: Revd Carol Backhouse 07857 449724
revcarolbackhouse@gmail.com 24 Wentworth Drive, Lancaster, LA1 3RJ
www.christchurchlancaster.org.uk Facebook:@ChristChurchLancaster
Everyone is welcome to join in prayer and worship this week:
Today
8.30am Holy Communion
10.30am Rev’d Kaarina’s First Mass (with Children’s Church)
6pm Taizé Eucharist
Tuesday
5pm Evening Prayer (Zoom)
Wednesday
5.30pm Meditation followed by
6pm Evening Prayer
Friday
9:30am Eucharist
Sunday 25th January – Third Sunday of Epiphany
8.30am Holy Communion
10.30am Parish Eucharist with Children’s Church
4pm Messy Church
6pm Evening Prayer
Gluten-free wafers available. Please ask the Stewards for directions and assistance.
Prayer for this week
Eternal Lord, our beginning and our end: bring us with the whole creation to your glory, hidden through past ages and made known in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Little Seedlings
Every Tuesday from 9am in the Church Hall for under 4s and their parents/carers.
Children’s Church
… is an important part of our church life, and one of the ways children learn more about Christian faith. If you can offer one Sunday morning each a month (or more if possible) please have a wor with Innes. An Enhanced DBS check will be arranged. All children need to be accompanied to church by a parent/guardian, please.
Messy Church – today – 25th January
On the 4th Sunday of the month at 4pm in the Hall for KS1/2 children.
Please send items for inclusion in this newsletter to Jacqueline Stamper by Thursday lunchtime. Many thanks.
Scripture Readings for our Worship – Sunday 11th January:
Isaiah 49: 1-7
Listen to me, O coastlands, pay attention, you peoples from far away! The Lord called me before I was born, while I was in my mother’s womb he named me. He made my mouth like a sharp sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me a polished arrow, in his quiver he hid me away. And he said to me, ‘You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.’ But I said, ‘I have laboured in vain, I have spent my strength for nothing and vanity; yet surely my cause is with the Lord, and my reward with my God.’ And now the Lord says, who formed me in the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him, and that Israel might be gathered to him, for I am honoured in the sight of the Lord, and my God has become my strength – he says, ‘It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the survivors of Israel; I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.’ Thus says the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, to one deeply despised, abhorred by the nations, the slave of rulers, ‘Kings shall see and stand up, princes, and they shall prostrate themselves, because of the Lord , who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.’
This is the Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
Psalm 40: 1-12
Refrain: Great are the wonders you have done, O Lord my God.
1 I waited patiently for the Lord;
he inclined to me and heard my cry.
2 He brought me out of the roaring pit, out of the mire and clay;
he set my feet upon a rock and made my footing sure.
3. He has put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God;
many shall see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.
4 Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,
who does not turn to the proud that follow a lie.
5 Great are the wonders you have done, O Lord my God. How great your designs for us!
There is none that can be compared with you.If I were to proclaim them and tell of them they would be more than I am able to express.
Refrain: Great are the wonders you have done, O Lord my God.
6 Sacrifice and offering you do not desire but my ears you have opened;
Burnt offering and sacrifice for sin you have not required;
7 Then said I: ‘Lo, I come.
8 ‘In the scroll of the book it is written of me that I should do your will, O my God;
I delight to do it: your law is within my heart.’
9 I have declared your righteousness in the great congregation;
behold, I did not restrain my lips, and that, O Lord, you know.
10 Your righteousness I have not hidden in my heart; I have spoken of your faithfulness and your salvation;
I have not concealed your loving-kindness and truth from the great congregation.
Refrain: Great are the wonders you have done, O Lord my God.
12 Do not withhold your compassion from me, O Lord;
let your love and your faithfulness always preserve me,
Refrain: Great are the wonders you have done, O Lord my God.
1 Corinthians 1.1-9,
1Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes, To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, together with all those who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours:
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that has been given you in Christ Jesus, for in every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind— just as the testimony of Christ has been strengthened among you— so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. ‘
This is the Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John 1.29-42
Glory to you, O Lord.
The next day he saw Jesus coming towards him and declared, ‘Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, “After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.” I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.’ And John testified, ‘I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, “He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.” And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Son of God.’
The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, ‘Look, here is the Lamb of God!’ The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, ‘What are you looking for?’ They said to him, ‘Rabbi’ (which translated means Teacher), ‘where are you staying?’ He said to them, ‘Come and see.’ They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon. One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his brother Simon and said to him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which is translated Anointed). He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas’ (which is translated Peter).
This is the Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, O Christ.
Prayer after Communion
God of glory, you nourish us with your Word who is the bread of life: fill us with your Holy Spirit that through us the light of your glory may shine in all the world. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Please remember in your prayers:
Those who are sick: Youngblood McCray, Thomas Platt, Yan Connell, David Foster, Ron Holmes, Ann Boss, Geoffrey Heywood, Christine McCrann, Richard Jones, Marlene Phillips. – that God’s healing, wholeness and peace are with them.
Those who have died recently: Lizzy Hilton, Donald Silverwood, Pauline Shepherd, Roger Myles Mason, Joyce Hodgson, Katie McDermott – may they rest in peace and rise in glory.
Those preparing for Baptism
Ruby Riding – may they shine like lights in the world
In our parish, we ask God to bless and provide:
For those who live and work in Lyth Road, Cartmel Road
For Lancaster Priory as they discern who is to be their new Vicar
For Rev’d Kaarina, following her priesting on the 17th January.
For the appointment of a parish administrator.
– that God’s loving kindness is found and shared.
Tuesday Evening Prayer
At 5pm most Tuesdays, the clergy say Evening Prayer over Zoom. If you’d like to join them to give thanks for the day past, read the Scriptures and pray, the details are: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81366929814?pwd=jTDuW7HO8lR7I0nQ9Jrm2BrMxjJqVS.1.
Children’s Church
… is an important part of our church life, and one of the ways children learn more about Christian faith. We’re looking for helpers for Children’s Church for the new term. If you can offer one Sunday morning each a month (or more if possible) please have a word with Innes. An Enhanced DBS check will be arranged. Please note that all children need to be accompanied to church by a parent/guardian.
Meeting up
The clergy are available for pastoral support and spiritual direction, please don’t hesitate to be in in contact. If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time or is seriously ill, please let us know as soon as possible, to arrange prayers, home communion, a hospital visit, or anointing of the sick. If you would like us to pray for you, or for someone you know, for any reason, please email your request to revcarolbackhouse@gmail.com. Please ask the person’s permission if you’d like them included in the weekly notices.
Sponsor a Hymn
If you’d like to suggest and sponsor a hymn, to be sung within the 10.30am Eucharist, please fill in one of the blue forms from the noticeboard.
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Please join us at Lancaster Cornerstone (Dalton Square) on Wednesday 21st January at 6.30pm for a short service of prayer for Christian Unity, joining with churches from across Lancaster.
Thank you – Christingle!
The Christingle donations from church members and from Christ Church School raised just over £200 in total towards the invaluable work of The Children’s Society.
Chimney Tops and Spire Appeal
Urgent repairs are needed to our church chimney and spires to make the building watertight and safe – 170 year old mortar has washed out, causing damage inside the building. We need to raise £10,000 ourselves before we are eligible for grant funding. Please would you help? Pick up a flyer with details of how to donate, and if you have ideas for fundraising events please have a word with Rev’d Carol or the fundraising team. We’re getting closer to the target – can you help us get over the line? Thank you in advance.
Thought for the Week
Why is the way of Jesus worth choosing? Because it is the way to the Kingdom, the way Jesus took, and the way that brings everlasting life. Henri Nouwen
Giggle (or Groan) of the week – suggestions welcome!
Years ago I used to supply Filofaxes for the mafia. I was involved in very organised crime.
In Other News…
The Olive Branch Foodbank
The Olive Branch badly needs all kinds of long-life food and drink – please bring a tin or packet to church with you to leave in the collection crates. . You can also give money for them to buy what people need: https://www.the-olivebranch.org.uk/donate/
Eco-Group Thought/Action for the Week
Celebrate Change The World Energy Investment 2025 report reveals that global investment in renewables is twice that of fossil fuels, a quarter of all new vehicles sold worldwide are electric and half of the power generating capacity of China and India is low-carbon.
Recycling at Christ Church – from the Eco-Group
On the first Sunday of the month, we collect medical blister packs and personal care items such as soft plastic tubes (e.g. for hand cream), wet wipe packaging and used make-up such as lipsticks, eyeshadow and mascara. Please look carefully at the information provided on and close to the collection boxes to ensure that you only bring in what can now be recycled volunteers. No bottle tops or dental products, please.
PCC
Our PCC met on the 7th January. We discussed our plans for the year ahead, fundraising for the repair work, and long term planning for Children’s Ministry among other things. Please do talk to your PCC reps about any aspect of life at Christ Church, and pray for the PCC in its work this year. You might want to use the following prayer:
Lord God, Together with you by our side, we can bring growth to our Church. Send your Holy Spirit to give us good planning, wise actions, joy in worship and our welcome, the right words when we speak to others. Help our Church grow in numbers, in Spiritual commitment to you, and in service to our local community, through Christ our Lord. Amen
Community at Christ Church:
Little Seedlings – New Group for 0-4 year olds and their carers.
We have launched a baby and toddler group called Little Seedlings, which meets 9-10.30 every Tuesday in the Church Hall. New children always welcome. f you know anyone with a child 0-4 who would like to come along with their carers, please pass it on. Free! It resumes on Tuesday 13th January.
Choir
Our Choir rehearses on Thursdays 7-8:15 pm in Church. We’re a friendly and supportive bunch who welcome new singers. There’s lots of exciting music as we prepare for the Advent season, so please contact grahamtoft1@aol.com if you’d like to know more.
Hall Kitchen and Cupboards
Thanks to grants from the Walney Trust, Community Fund and the Harold and Alice Bridges Trust, we have a new Hall Kitchen! Please ask for help if you are using any of the white goods for the first time – there will be a short briefing/orientation session so watch this space! Work is still needed to redecorate – but we’re nearly there!
Hall for Hire – Don’t forget that the Hall is available for hire, especially at weekends and during the day. £24/first hour and £12 for each subsequent hour/part-hour. Please contact Jacqueline at hall@christchurchlancaster.org.uk 07808 765364 for more info.
Gardening Group
Our friendly gardening group meets on the first Friday of each month (6th February) between 12noon and 2pm to keep our church garden looking lovely. New members welcome – whether for all or part of the time. If you can, please bring gloves & secateurs.
Book Group
The church book group normally meets on the first Friday of each month at 4 pm in the church hall (6th February). Anyone who enjoys reading and discussion is very welcome to join us. You can just turn up on the day, speak to Joyce, or send an email to joycelynch1946@gmail.com
Craft Group
…. meets in the Hall most Tuesdays at 11.30am. Everyone welcome – bring your own project, or share in one of the others on the go! No prior experience needed. Please talk to Julie Buckley if you’d like more info.
Rev’d Kaarina’s First Eucharist and Lunch -18th January
Congratulations to Rev’d Kaarina, who was ordained Priest yesterday, Saturday 17th January 2026, It was a wonderful service at St Bartholomew’s in Colne! Today, Sunday 18th, she will celebrate the Eucharist for the first time at the 10:30 am service – and all are welcome to the celebration to follow, so please come along
Save the Date (1)
Our next Family Quiz Night will be on Saturday 31st at 6pm! Join us in the Hall for a light buffet, and lots of fun. Please BYO drinks. £10/family or £4/individual
Save the date (2) – Chinese New Year Dinner – Tuesday 17th February
All are warmly invited to a Chinese New Year Dinner in the Hall, organised by Rev’d Kaarina. There’ll be a sign-up list in due course, but please put the date in your diary in the meantime.
Lifts to church? Why not join the FunBus?
Do you or someone you know need a lift to church? If you’re finding it difficult to get to church services (perhaps especially in the winter months), we’re organising a “bus” to bring people to church. Please contact Rev’d Kaarina if you’re interested.
Taizé Eucharist – 18th January, and the third Sunday of the month
This evening at 6 pm, all are invited to the first Taizé Eucharist of 2026, a reflective service of prayers, song and stillness in the style of the Taizé community of France. Please note that these services will now be held on the third Sunday of each month.
Epiphany Gifts Appeal
Each year, we appeal for funds towards the cost of candles, bread, wine, and other items used in worship. Please take a list at the back of church, and sign up to purchase one (or more) items. If you are paying cash, please mark the envelope ‘Epiphany Gifts’. Thank you very much!
New Youth Group – starting 30th January
Innes is starting a new group for Year 6 upwards meeting monthly on Fridays, 3:30-5 pm, in the hall. All are welcome. Please share this with youngsters you know.
Promoting a Safer Church
If you believe that someone is at risk of immediate harm please call emergency services on 999. Anysafeguarding concerns in a parish should be brought to the attention of your Parish Safeguarding Officers,Debbie Steele and Emma Muckalt, who can be contacted as above. Concerns can also be raised directly with our Diocesan Team,Tel: 01254 503088 or email safeguarding@blackburn.anglican.org
Refreshments today!
All are welcome for refreshments after the service.
Receiving the notices by email
If you would like to receive these notices by email, please contact Jacqueline Stamper on the above address.
Supporting Christ Church
Fundraising – ideas, opportunities, and support needed!
We’re blessed to have received some generous grant funding for the work we need to do on the building, but we still need all the help we can get to raise the match funding we still need from our own resources. There was a meeting in church last Sunday to discuss fundraising ideas. Julie Buckley has collected these together, and you’re welcome to send more to buckleys@live.co.uk. if you’re able to send a financial contribution, for which we’re really grateful, you can do so by using the QR code below, thank you. We’re getting closer to the target, so anything you can give would be much appreciated.
Church Repair Fund
Our Church Repair Fund helps keep our buildings in good condition so that they can continue to be used for ministry and outreach in the years to come. There are several big projects on the Porch, East Wall, and Hall, which are in need of urgent work.
If you’d like more details about what is going on, please pick up a leaflet – and if you are able to make a donation, there are envelopes available. You can also contribute online via the Give a Little website: https://givealittle.co/campaigns/1c7889a9-7ef8-4730-a84a-2d434726c909
Supporting Christ Church – One-off Gifts
If you would like to make a one-off donation to the church as an offering, to pay a fee, or as a gift to regular funds, you can give through our ‘Give a little’ page: https://givealittle.co/campaigns/f63a0655-b270-4d05-bf35-3994747785d0 This will also give you the option to Gift Aid your donation (if you pay tax in the UK), enabling the church to get an extra 25p back from the taxman for every £1 you give.
Supporting Christ Church – Regularly
Christ Church is now taking part in the Parish Giving Scheme, which enables you to give regularly by Direct Debit, and to to easily review how much you give depending on circumstances. Online at www.parishgiving.org.uk Or by telephone 0333 002 1271 Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm. For any of these methods our PGS code 030603240 ensures that your gift goes to our church.
EasyFundraising
Did you know you can support Christ Church when you shop online? Register using https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/, and the brand’s commission will be donated to the church.
Key contacts:
Vicar: … Rev’d Carol Backhouse revcarolbackhouse@gmail.com 07857 449724
Curate: … Rev’d Kaarina Leong curate@christchurchlancaster.org.uk 07749 489623
Children’s Ministry Leader… Innes Heron-Stamp children@christchurchlancaster.org.uk 07853791776
Church Warden: Greg Skelland churchwarden@christchurchlancaster.org.uk 07944 683847
Director of Music: Graham Toft grahamtoft1@aol.com
Notices: Ms Jacqueline Stamper j.stamper@btinternet.com 01524 64083
Parish Safeguarding Officer: … Mrs Emma Muckalt & Ms Debbie Steele safeguarding@christchurchlancaster.org 07547 717060
Parish Secretary: …Mrs Julie Buckley buckleys@live.co.uk 07717 824574
Hall Bookings: …hall@christchurchlancaster.org.uk 07808 765364
Christ Church School …Miss Emma Simpson 01524 60955
Promoting a Safer Church
Christ Church, Lancaster have adopted the House of Bishops’ ‘Promoting a Safer Church’ policy and the Parish Safeguarding Handbook. All those working with children and adults at risk have undergone safer recruitment and received safeguarding training. If you believe that someone is at risk of immediate harm please call emergency services on 999. Any safeguarding concerns in a parish should be brought to the attention of your Parish Safeguarding Officers, Debbie Steele and Emma Muckalt, who can be contacted as above. Concerns can also be raised directly with our Diocesan Team, Tel: 01254 503088 or email safeguarding@blackburn.anglican.org