(Note: the Newsletter can also be downloaded as a PDF.)
A warm welcome to
The Parish of Christ Church, Lancaster
on Sunday 5th June 2022 Pentecost
Vicar: Revd Carol Backhouse 01524 942105
revcarolbackhouse@gmail.com 1 East Road, Lancaster, LA1 3EE
www.christchurchlancaster.org.uk Facebook:@ChristChurchLancaster
Everyone is welcome to join in prayer and worship this week:
Today – Sunday 22nd May
8:30 am Holy Communion (Lady Chapel)
10:30 am All Together for Pentecost
3 pm Churches Together for Pentecost at Lancaster Priory
6 pm Taizé Eucharist (Lady Chapel)
Wednesday
5:30 pm Meditation and Evening Prayer (Storey Chapel)
Friday
9:30 am Eucharist (Lady Chapel)
Next Sunday – 12th June Trinity
8:30 am Holy Communion (Lady Chapel)
10:30 am Parish Eucharist with Baptism *
6 pm No Evening Prayer (6:30 pm Diocesan Service at Lancaster Priory)
*Our YouTube channel is at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPoAvGj4K9085RV8zo0ZS9Q
Children and Youth
Tiddlers
Every Friday from 10.30am in the Hall
For under 5s and their parents/carers
Children’s Church
Every Sunday during the 10.30 service
For KS1/2
Monthly Messy Church
Crafts, stories, song and a meal together
4pm on 26th June in the Hall for KS1/2
Youth Group (KS3+)
Fortnightly on Fridays at 4pm in the Hall
Prayer for the Week:
Holy Spirit, sent by the Father,
ignite in us your holy fire;
strengthen your children with the gift of faith,
revive your Church with the breath of love,
and renew the face of the earth,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
A Prayer for our new Bishop
Heavenly Father, we pray for a bishop full of your Holy Spirit:
a disciple who makes disciples,
a bold witness to Jesus,
and a Christ-like leader,
able to inspire children and young people
with the transforming message of your gospel.
We ask this in the name of your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
Gluten-free wafers available. Please ask the Stewards for directions and assistance.
Please send items for inclusion in this newsletter to Jacqueline Stamper by Thursday lunchtime. Many thanks.
Scripture Readings for our Worship today:
Acts 2.1-21
When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.
Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. Amazed and astonished, they asked, ‘Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs—in our own languages we hear them speaking about God’s deeds of power.’ All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, ‘What does this mean?’ But others sneered and said, ‘They are filled with new wine.’
But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them: ‘Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o’clock in the morning. No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel: “In the last days it will be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams. Even upon my slaves, both men and women, in those days I will pour out my Spirit; and they shall prophesy. And I will show portents in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and smoky mist. The sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the coming of the Lord’s great and glorious day. Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
This is the Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
Psalm 104: 26-37b
Refrain: I will sing to the Lord as long as I live.
26 O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.
27 There is the sea, spread far and wide, and there move creatures beyond number, both small and great.
28 There go the ships, and there is that Leviathan which you have made to play in the deep.
29 All of these look to you
to give them their food in due season.
30 When you give it them, they gather it; you open your hand and they are filled with good.
31 When you hide your face they are troubled; when you take away their breath, they die and return again to the dust.
32 When you send forth your spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the earth.
Refrain: I will sing to the Lord as long as I live.
33 May the glory of the Lord endure for ever; may the Lord rejoice in his works;
34 He looks on the earth and it trembles; he touches the mountains and they smoke.
35 I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will make music to my God while I have my being.
36 So shall my song please him
while I rejoice in the Lord.
37 Let sinners be consumed out of the earth and the wicked be no more.
Bless the Lord, O my soul.Alleluia.
Refrain: I will sing to the Lord as long as I live.
Romans 8.14-17
For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption. When we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’ it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ—if, in fact, we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.
This is the Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
Psalm 97
Refrain: You, Lord, are most high over all the earth.
1 The Lord is king: let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of the isles be glad.
2 Clouds and darkness are round about him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
3 Fire goes before him
and burns up his enemies on every side.
Refrain: You, Lord, are most high over all the earth.
4 His lightnings lit up the world;
the earth saw it and trembled.
5 The mountains melted like wax at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.
6 The heavens declared his righteousness, and all the peoples have seen his glory.
Refrain: You, Lord, are most high over all the earth.
7Confounded be all who worship carved images and delight in mere idols. Bow down before him, all you gods.
8 Zion heard and was glad, and the daughters of Judah rejoiced,
because of your judgements, O Lord.
9 For you, Lord, are most high over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods.
Refrain: You, Lord, are most high over all the earth.
10 The Lord loves those who hate evil; he preserves the lives of his faithful
and delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
11 Light has sprung up for the righteous and joy for the true of heart.
12 Rejoice in the Lord, you righteous,
and give thanks to his holy name.
Refrain: You, Lord, are most high over all the earth.
Revelation 22.12-14, 16,17,20,21
‘See, I am coming soon; my reward is with me, to repay according to everyone’s work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.’
Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they will have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by the gates.
‘It is I, Jesus, who sent my angel to you with this testimony for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.’ The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come.’And let everyone who hears say, ‘Come.’And let everyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who wishes take the water of life as a gift.The one who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all the saints. Amen.
This is the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God
Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John (John 14.8-17)
Glory to you, O Lord.
Philip said to him, ‘Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and you still do not know me? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, “Show us the Father”? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own; but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; but if you do not, then believe me because of the works themselves. Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father. I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If in my name you ask me for anything, I will do it. ‘If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you for ever. This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in you.
This is the Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, O Christ.
Prayer after Communion:
Faithful God, who fulfilled the promises of Easter by sending us your Holy Spirit and opening to every race and nation the way of life eternal: open our lips by your Spirit, that every tongue may tell of your glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Please remember in your prayers:
Those who are sick: Youngblood McCray, Ernie Wilson, Ivy Buckley, Stephen Gardner, Ann Gilbride, Thomas Platt, Janet Ball, Dorothy Eidsforth, Sitar Rose, Istok Bratić, Yan Connell, Barbara Cocker, Lori Guerrard, Pauline Green TOHP, Niki Artega, Molly Saylor, David Morris
Those who have died recently: Olive Niccolls, Luke Wilson, Susan Edwards, Sheila Gaskell, Alan Liver, Lindsey deLao
Those being baptised: Devon Parker
Those preparing for marriage: Sam Robson and Ella Hall
Parish Cycle of Prayer: Albion Mews, Balmoral Road
For the work of Lancaster City Council and Lancashire County Council
Zoom Prayer:
Tuesday 21st June is the next meeting of Prayer4 – 30 minutes of prayer, at 4pm every fortnight. There’ll be a short Bible reading, some music, some stillness, and space to pray for the people and places on your heart – all from the comfort of your own sofa. Zoom details: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/8069459310?pwd=cVJ1ZDlnNXF2dDVFWThVa0Z0VWE5dz09
Meeting ID: 806 945 9310
Taizé
On the first Sunday of every month at 6pm, there is a beautiful service of prayer, music and stillness in the style of the Taizé Community. There’ll be a special celebration for Pentecost on the 5th June – everyone welcome! If you’d like to join the music group (singing or instrumental), the rehearsal starts at 4.30pm. Do see Julian if you’d be interested.
Thought for the week
The Spirit loves us and knows everyone’s place in the grand scheme of things: for him, we are not bits of confetti blown about by the wind, rather we are irreplaceable fragments in his mosaic. Pope Francis
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 prayer@christchurchlancaster.org.uk or text the Prayer Chain on 07980 351855. Please ask the person’s permission if you’d like them included in the weekly notices.
In Other News…
The Olive Branch Foodbank
… is in particular need of tins – including meat, fish, vegetables and pies, as well as donations of rice (not pasta or baked beans). All other items, including toiletries, are also gratefully received! Or you can give money for them to buy what is needed: https://www.the-olivebranch.org.uk/donate/
Let’s Be Friends
Are looking for a Network Coordinator (6 hours per week @ £12 per hour with an initial 12-month contract) to help befriend
those who are homeless More details attached, or from Louise: Let’s Be Friends Project Coordinator on 07871902764
Eco-Group Thought/Action for the Week
Enrich your spirit by taking a walk in the park. Listen to the birds sing, see nature at its best and marvel at God’s creation.
Recycling at Christ Church
The next collection of crisp packets, used toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, and blister packets of tablets will be today, Sunday 5th June, and the first Sunday of every month.
Cross Bay Walk for Madagascar
The Eco-Group are supporting a local charity, Money for Madagascar, as part of their work to reduce the effects of climate change. In addition to the fundraising bookstall at the back of church, you may also wish to join some of the group to do the Cross Bay Walk on the 25th June, leaving Arnside at 3pm.
Please book your place at https://moneyformadagascar.org/crossbaywalk/ and let Rev’d Carol know if you’d like a lift. The walk costs £12/adult, and £2/dog, plus money for train fare.
Giggle (or Groan) of the week – suggestions welcome!
Q. What’s a penguin’s favourite breed of dog?
A. A Bisson freeze. (With thanks to Valerie)
Community at Christ Church:
Christ Church Choir
….. sings at the 10.30 service about once a month, plus other special occasions, and practises in church on Thursdays at 7.15pm for an hour. New members always welcome; if you’re not sure, come along and give it a try for a few weeks! Have a word with Clive or contact him via cliveshaw54@gmail.com
PCC Meeting
The next Church Council meeting will be on 22nd June – if there are ideas, suggestions or issues you’d like discussing, please let Rev’d Carol/Julie Buckley know.
Thank you!
To everyone who helped make last Sunday’s Cream Tea and Choral Evensong such a success – it was an excellent start to the Jubilee celebrations!
Christ Church Crafting
… will meet next on Tuesday 14th June at 11:30am in the Hall – all welcome! Bring your own craft project, or make a pennant for the community bunting. Future meetings will be on the second Tuesday of the month at the same time. Contact Marion Cowan for further details.
Gardening Session
Thank you to everyone who came to help out this week! The next church gardening session will be on 24th June 2-3 pm. All welcome!
Pentecost
As the Easter season draws to a close, we remember Jesus’ ascension into heaven, and then, nine days later, the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples to empower them to continue Jesus’ work. This Novena (nine days) has been a time for prayer joining Christians around the world praying for God’s Kingdom to come.
Sunday 5th June (Pentecost)
Parade Service at 10.30am – as we come All Together to celebrate the birthday of the Church.
Then at 3pm there will be a Churches Together service in Lancaster Priory, followed by a picnic in the Castle – everyone welcome!
And if you’re looking for a peaceful, reflective end to the day, the Taizé Eucharist at Christ Church begins at 6pm.
Saturday 25th June – Help Needed!
From 9.30-12.30am help is needed to clean and tidy the church and hall, along with some basic DIY. Please bring gloves and old clothes, and wear closed-toe shoes. Come for 30 minutes, or longer if you’re able, children welcome to help too. Brunch will be provided!
New Assistant Archdeacons
From Sunday 12th June, there will be three assistant Archdeacons in our Diocese, and a Dean of Women’s Ministry. There will be a special commissioning service on Sunday 12th at 6.30pm in the Priory – everyone welcome. (No evening prayer at Christ Church that day). Please hold Rev’ds Fleur Green, Leah Vasey-Saunders, Sarah Gill and Anne Beverley in your prayers.
Save the Dates: Please pick up a flyer!
29th May – 4pm Choral Evensong and Cream Tea to begin the Jubilee Weekend
24th July – 3pm Pet Blessing Service
31st July – 3pm Pimms and Hymns Service celebrating our favourite hymns
14th August 10.30am Feast of the Assumption, followed by Barbecue in the Church grounds.
9-18th September Heritage Open Days
24th September – 2-4pm Community Apple Festival
8th October Parish Bounds Walk
1st October Ceilidh
2nd October Harvest Festival
1-4th December Christmas Tree Festival
Supporting Christ Church
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
Sponsored Sundays
If you would like to Sponsor a Sunday hymn (perhaps in memory of a loved one), please fill in one of the blue forms from the noticeboard at the back of church, and give it to Rev’d Carol with at least a month’s notice before the Sunday you’d like to sponsor. You can nominate a hymn if you wish. Please place your donation in an envelope labelled ‘Sponsored Sundays’, and place it in the offertory box. It is up to you how much you wish to give!
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.
Key contacts:
Churchwarden: …Ms Jacqueline Stamper churchwarden@christchurchlancaster.org.uk 01524 64083
Priest with PTO and Choir Contact: …Rev’d Clive Shaw. cliveshaw54@gmail.com
Lay Reader: …Dr Pat Allen reader@christchurchlancaster.org.uk 01524 39552
Parish Safeguarding Officer: …Ms Jane Lippitt safeguarding@christchurchlancaster.org.uk 07930 979503
Children, Youth & Families Coordinator: …Mrs Julie Tinnion children@christchurchlancaster.org.uk 07749 489623
Parish Secretary: …Mrs Julie Buckley buckleys@live.co.uk 01524 37229
Hall Bookings: …hall@christchurchlancaster.org.uk 07980 351855
Nightshelter Co-ordinator: …Ms Jan Norbury coordinator.nightshelter@gmail.com 07547 717 060
Christ Church School …Ms Emma Simpson 01524 60955
Ordinations
Please hold in your prayers those in our Diocese preparing to be ordained priest or deacon on 2nd and 3rd July: Jordan Bentliffe, Amy Bland, Sam Dickinson, Andrew Downes, Lloyd Etheridge, Alan Gault, Liz Gethin, Nathaniel Gilmour, Simon Griffiths, Barbara Houghton, Simon King, Martin McDonald, Jordan McDermott, Ian McGrath, Bryn Naylor, Tristan Meares, Ryan Otley, Matthew Rowley, Anna Walker, Mark Wooding, and Matteo Zambon.