Church Bulletin

It was reported on the radio on Wednesday this week that it was exactly 18 months since our Prime Minister announced the first lockdown. Now there is evidence that we are emerging from the pandemic or at least “learning to live with the virus”, enabling us all to move forward into some kind of normality. 

I have spent the last few days watching cricket at Edgbaston, which almost feels “normal”.  I have said before that watching 4 day county cricket in the open air offers the ideal chance for safe distancing.  I counted about 400 spectators in a stadium that can accommodate well over 20,000!!  There is hardly any need for the official guidelines to state that there is no longer a policy of social distancing at Edgbaston!!  And, fortunately, we don’t have to wear face coverings to watch cricket!!  Similarly, it was a great joy to be a small part of the team supporting our St Andrew’s “heroes”, who undertook and completed the 20 mile sponsored walk through some wonderful scenery, taking in the 6 churches of Greg’s new parish; and, of course, to see Greg and Fran again and share the experience with some of their new flock.  Veronika, Linda and Steve (and Paul and Mark, as support) earned every penny of the sponsorship for the church that you have given or will give – there is still time!!

Indoor events are a little different, of course.  Even in the vast expanse of the Edgbaston stadium, the spectator guide advises that nothing and nowhere is 100% risk free, and not everybody is fully comfortable about returning; so all are requested to make the experience less anxious by wearing face coverings on entry and exit and when moving around the stadium, and to show respect for others at all times – much as we do in church, now that we are encouraging people to come back to worship together.  We can even sing now (behind face masks!) and there is definitely a more normal feel to services; and it is good to be back and to see “real” people again.

The situation is under constant review, and last Tuesday the Prayer Ministry Team prayed, amongst other things, about the future and how services are to be presented as we emerge from the pandemic.  It was also a great privilege and joy to be invited back to King Henry VIII School for two events in the last week or two – as a volunteer host for the Heritage Day Tours of the school and as a guest at the Annual Prizegiving, where one of its many former pupils who have gone on to distinguished careers was the guest speaker, spoke inspiringly to the pupils and reminisced with his former teachers!!  The Headmaster, Head Boy and Head Girl all declared from the stage how good it was to be back, with the Hall full of parents, pupils and guests; there seemed to be little concern about mixing.  But all present were required to produce evidence of a negative Natural Flow Test from the preceding 24 hours.  Maybe this is a way forward?  One thing is certain: it is all in God’s hands; and we can be confident that Jesus is with us and we can put our trust in Him.  He will never let us down. So:

 ^“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  (Philippians 4: 4-7)  

Jeremy Thomas 

Church Guidelines

The PCC met on Monday 2nd August and have agreed the following changes which will be reviewed regularly.

People are requested to:

Use the sanitiser when entering church.

Social distance.

Use a face covering when in church.

Singing – will now be allowed but requested to be done behind a face covering.

Move to a 1 metre distance – therefore all pews will be open, but only 2 people (related or formally in a bubble) are allowed to sit in each pew. People will be asked to sit at the opposite end of the pew from the people in the pew in front/behind. This is to achieve the 1 metre social distance.

Upstairs will now be open on Sundays to increase capacity.

If people, due to mobility or preference, wish to sit downstairs for the Sunday service you will need to contact Julie to book a place. Otherwise, the booking arrangements will be suspended, and people will be seated on a first come first served basis, utilising both the main body of the church and upstairs. The capacity of the church will be 60 people.

People will still be encouraged to record via the track and trace app.

We will continue with the current arrangements for sharing the peace.

Communion – will be administered in the pews as now. We will follow the option to administer the bread only at this time. We will request that people continue to wear a face covering when receiving Communion to protect both themselves and visiting clergy.

Coffee – will not be available after any service at this stage.

Wednesday Service – Wednesday service at 10am has resumed.

Life Events Weddings/Baptisms/Funerals – The church can accommodate 68 people utilising upstairs and downstairs and choir stalls. The number able to attend will be at the discretion of the person officiating at the service. Singing will be requested to be undertaken behind face coverings.

As you can imagine trying to get the balance right is very difficult, but we will keep the guidance under review. We will continue to take our steer from the Church of England and Public Health England guidance to make sure that we are keeping us all as safe as possible.

The church will continue to open on Thursdays and Sundays from 9am until 5pm.

Nick Tooby – Churchwarden

On behalf of the PCC

Church Opening Times

The church is open for private prayer on Thursday (9am – 5pm) and after the service on Sunday.

Online Service & Bulletin

The PCC met on Monday 13th September and has agreed that the online service will come to an end from this Sunday (19th September). The online service has been a great way for us as a church to meet together during the pandemic. We are so grateful for the IT team who have worked continuously during the pandemic putting the online services together (all working full-time), all the readers, leaders and preachers who have made it possible for us to worship throughout. It was also agreed that the bulletin would reduce to once a week with it being sent out on a Friday starting from 24^th September.

Becky Crowe – Churchwarden
On behalf of the PCC

Peter Bruton’s Funeral

Peter’s funeral is in church on Wednesday 29th September at 1pm. As we know, Peter had a very full and active life, being involved in many groups. Due to Covid restrictions in church we are limited to only 70 people at the service. Unfortunately, so that all the groups and friends can be represented, attendance is by INVITATION ONLY. I appreciate many people will be disappointed, but the family would appreciate, if you are not invited, to take a moment at 1pm to remember Peter wherever you maybe at that time, and give thanks to God for his life.

St Andrews Church – Weddings through the age’s exhibition and Gift Day

Help required – As part of our Gift Day this year, to support the finances of the church, we want to hold an exhibition of weddings through the ages. This will focus on the people and wedding dresses worn in our church by the many couples who have held their “big day” in St Andrews Church.

Can you help?

We want to exhibit wedding dresses from people who have been married in our church. The church has been holding weddings since 1875, and it would be great to exhibit a selection of dresses from as early as possible up to the current day. The good news is you don’t need to wear them yourself! If you have a wedding dress, we could borrow please email me.

We are also wanting to exhibit wedding photos of the happy couple across the decades. Again, if you are willing to loan us your wedding photo to display, please email me.

The event will be held on the 30th October between 10am – 3pm in the church.

Thank you,

Nick Tooby – nicktooby@btinternet.com

Tailors Dummy or Mannequin

Does anyone have a tailors/dress makers dummy or a mannequin that the church could borrow for the above event? We would need them for 27^th October to prepare for the event on 30^th October. If you have one and are willing to let the church borrow it please contact Nick Tooby or the parish administrator. It is will well looked after. Thank you.

Annual Sponsored Walk

Last Saturday, 18^th September, Steve, Veronika and Linda joined with Greg for a sponsored walk. Those of you who have been coming to church a long time will know this annual event, started about 15 years ago with a 40 mile walk across Wales. I, (Linda), only supported at this event along my husband, but have walked since. All these years later, and our hips, back and feet have aged somewhat and so we limit our walks to about 20 miles now.

This year, we joined with Greg Smith and a number of his congregation, who were raising money for the historic churches trust in Shropshire. However, with all the good works throughout the pandemic that St. Andrews have done, we decided that all the money we raise will go directly to St. Andrews church to enable us to continue our good work.

The walk started from St. George’s church in Pontesbury at eight in the morning. It was an early start for us as we needed to travel there, and so we set off at six o’clock. In itself it was a difficult walk as those who know the area will testify. It is really hilly and sometimes the terrain was quite tough underfoot. One particular area, going up stiperstones to nearby devils chair was particularly steep and it was rocky underfoot. The first half of the walk seemed all uphill, and the second part, when the feet were sore, seemed mainly downhill. We called into a number of churches along the way, and had a short reading and a prayer at each. The fellowship was wonderful, as was the hospitality as we were served refreshments and cakes at most churches and as facilities were not always available, one very kind lady opened up her home to us so that we could use her toilet too. In total about 25 people or slightly more participated in the walk. Only nine of us completed it all. This would not have been possible but the amazing support from my husband Paul, and Jeremy, who ferried people back and forth and gave moral support and encouragement as well as ensuring everyone had whatever was required. Finally, we ended up at the Nags Head, for a well-deserved drink and rest before returning home.

It is still possible to sponsor us using one of the following methods:

·         Sponsorship form is in church

·         Use our specific online giving page, which is secure and offers a receipt, just follow the link – https://givealittle.co/campaigns/5f369064-5669-4be8-94e1-86e6e23fbef8

·         You can telephone Lin direct for her to record you’re her number is 0247468535

·         Give your donation to one of the Churchwardens

A big thank you to you all.

Linda Chylinski

Flower Rota

We would like to return to the tradition of placing flowers on our altar table each week.  As from Sunday, 26^th September, there will be a Rota available on the Notice Board at the rear of the Church for the period October-December, 2021.  If you would like to reserve a week in which to remember a loved one by having flowers in Church, please would you sign up for the appropriate Sunday.

The procedure has changed, and we will not be collecting money from you.  Instead, we are returning to the original system:  You are asked to provide your own flowers and bring them to Church on the Thursday before the relevant Sunday.   Please arrange them in the brass vases and stand them on the altar table. (Water is available in the kitchen and scissors are in the kitchen drawer.) Any flowers from the previous week with remaining life can be transferred to the stoneware jug which stands at the back of church or other appropriate vases.  Dead flowers/cuttings and any rubbish should be taken to the appropriate bins outside church.

A special thank you to Ann and Frank Dove, for their amazing commitment and hard work in maintaining our flowers inside church over so many years. 

If you have any queries, please speak to Lesley Lee.

Children’s Service

Our next Children’s service will take place in church on Sunday 3^rd October.

Wednesday Service

Our Wednesday Service has now resumed and commences weekly at 10am. Everyone welcome. There is no need to reserve a seat.

Building Our Faith

Our Wednesday evening bible study and fellowship takes place on Wednesdays at 7.30pm on Zoom.  We will be looking at Old Testament characters over the next few weeks and everyone is welcome to join us.

The zoom joining details are:

812 4505 0020

Passcode: 295068

If you have not joined us before you are very welcome. If you have any questions, please contact me.

Sue Masters

Church Volunteers

This is a reminder that anyone who volunteers for a role at St Andrew’s, whether paid or unpaid, must be safely recruited and may also require a DBS check. St Andrew’s are proud to abide by the regulations stipulated by the diocese to ensure the safety of all as far as we possibly can. 

If you have a role, or volunteered for a role within the church and have not been safely recruited please contact either Julie Crow (Parish Administrator) or Linda Chylinksi (Parish Safeguarding Officer) immediately. The contact details are:

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk

Parish Safeguarding Officer: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

Sidespersons Rota

We are looking to resume a sidespersons rota for Sunday services. If you are willing to do sidesperson duty please let Julie or one of the churchwardens know.

Please note that each individual will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Youth Work

We are looking to safer recruit volunteers for our Youth work. If you feel you could help with either the Drama Club, Rock Solid or the Youth Wellbeing course then please get in touch with Emma at standrewscovyouth@gmail.com

Foodbank Donations 

To donate to Central foodbank, Sue Barnes is coordinating this so please contact her to drop off food at her house. Contact Sue at susanbarnes1960@outlook.com

If you are unable to give food you can also donate online here: https://www.trusselltrust.org/rddonate-checkout/

Save our Greenbelt

Please see the enclosed update on saving the greenbelt in Eastern Green.

Good News! – Save our Green Belt, Eastern Green, Coventry (crowdjustice.co.uk)

Good Neighbours

Please find attached some useful information from the Good Neighbours Project – some of you may already be involved in this initiative. 

The website link is https://hopecoventry.org.uk/projects/good-neighbours-coventry/ if you require further information.  I can also provide details of the contact who sent me this information.   Individuals can refer themself into the service or it is possible to refer others as long as permission has been given to do so.

Web: facebook.com/goodneighbourscoventry

hopecoventry.org.uk/projects/good-neighbours-coventry

Mission Partners

Please find enclosed the latest update from our Mission Partners, Dan and Phillipa Munday.

Christian Drama

Andrew Cullum would like to invite you to a performance of a new piece of Christian Drama.

The Gospel According to Others is written and performed by Andrew, and is a one man show lasting for about an hour.

When: 27th-29th October 7:30pm

Where: St Georges Church, Coundon, Coventry, CV6 1EA  

To give you a clear preview of the show, on his website he has one scene available for advance viewing in its entirety. Here’s the link: http://www.andrewcullum.co.uk/page3.php

It’s possible you may have already seen his performance as Peter walking on water at the Coventry Cathedral Centenary in 2018. This scene is part of the show.

For further information please see the enclosed flyer.

Do send Julie your favourite bible verses or hymn verses, names for prayer and any birthdays, celebrations or articles for inclusion in the bulletin. Julie can be contacted on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk
Church Contacts

Churchwardens: Nick Tooby – 07951 925772 and Becky Crowe – 07875 552518

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847

Parish Safeguarding Officer and Children’s Advocate: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

26th September 2021 – The Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity   Readings James 5.13-20 & Mark 9.38-50   Readers Angela Lamb   Preacher Lynnette Clarke   President Lynnette Clarke   Intercessions Nick Tooby   Next week Hebrews 1.1-4 2.5-12 & Mark 10.2-16

Church Bulletin

So, another step on the path towards ‘normality’ is taking place and as you will see from Becky’s announcement below, next Sunday, 19^th September, will be our last recorded service.  It is a bit of a watershed moment and causes me to look back to those early weeks of Lockdown when Greg and the wonderful IT Team: Paul, Steve and Vicky agreed that it would be possible to put our service on YouTube in order that St Andrew’s could continue to meet virtually in our homes. 

Of course, to do that, certain requirements had to be in place.  Most importantly was the possession of a smart phone on which we could record our input whether leading, preaching, reading or praying.  I had an iPhone and though it was fairly old, it had that capacity.  Dutifully, I wrote my scripts and then went about the process of recording.  How was I to do that?  Those of you who have participated in this exercise will understand only too well the challenge of finding the right place for standing the phone or the tablet; there was the necessity to have it at the right height and angle.  Not easy.  Recording was often an amusing or frustrating exercise in itself: one could be so near the end and then misread or mispronounce, sometimes quite hilariously; having a fit of coughing, having the phone ring just at the wrong time, only to discover that it was some cruel fraudulent person telling you that huge amounts of money had been sent to Amazon.  I know I was not alone in these frustrations.  At one point Nick suggested that we put together all our out-takes for your amusement.  And yes, you would have been amused!

Secondly, we needed to be able to transfer the recording.  WeTransfer was recommended.  Ah!  There was the rub.  My Wi-Fi is weak and had a very poor relationship with WeTransfer.  In those early days, I spent hours trying to transfer my recording only to have it ‘die’ at the last minute.  Fortunately, WhatsApp came to my rescue and I found I was able to transfer using that much more easily and reliably – until it came to my sermons.  You will appreciate that IT is not my strength. I was to learn the hard way that WhatsApp was happy with up to 3 minute long recordings but did not seem to have capacity for longer.  Later, I discovered that there was a way of recording the whole and using WhatsApp tools to divide it into sections.  It was a steep learning curve.  Our lovely Technicians were amazingly patient and supportive but, I suspect, were tested to their limits. Thank you to Paul, Steve and Vicky.  You were and are incredible! 

Thank you, too, to all who have contributed your wonderful readings.  Sue, Nick, Becky, Lynette and I  understand only too well the pain barriers that you may have traversed during this operation. Thank you, Di (and in their absence – Daniel and Kirsty).  How much more challenging it must have been for you with the additional element of music and song to take into account.  I’m sure that I am not alone in appreciating your wonderful talent, faithfulness and hard work.

Thank you, too, to all of you who have ‘tuned in’ during the past 18 months.  In those early days we had over a hundred in attendance and our St. Andrew’s family was able to meet and worship together and though it was not ‘Church’ as we knew it – it was Church!  Just lately numbers have diminished substantially.  Last week very few attended on line but we had over 30 in attendance at St Andrew’s Church building.  With Di at the organ playing the music to the litany and we able to sing –  with our masks on, it seemed to me, that it was very close to ‘Church’ as we knew it – a wonderful time of worshipping our Lord and God! 

Of course, we are not out of the woods yet so I finish with some words from Thomas Merton.  You may be interested to know that he wrote these words in 1956.:

“We live in a time of great uncertainty.  In fact, has there ever been a time of certainty in my life?  I don’t think there ever has.  But I know that I’m no different from anyone else, that there is never certainty in the things of this world, and there is a sure footing in only faith and hope and the love of God.  I don’t face these uncertainties alone.  I know.  I may not be able to see where I am going, but that doesn’t mean I cannot see You, and follow You.  (Thoughts in Solitude – Thomas Merton)

Lesley Lee,  Reader

Church Guidelines

The PCC met on Monday 2^nd August and have agreed the following changes which will be reviewed regularly.

People are requested to:

• use the sanitiser when entering church.
• Social distance
• Use a face covering when in church.

• Singing – will now be allowed but requested to be done behind a face covering.
• Move to a 1 metre distance – therefore all pews will be open, but only 2 people (related or formally in a bubble) are allowed to sit in each pew. People will be asked to sit at the opposite end of the pew from the people in the pew in front/behind. This is to achieve the 1 metre social distance. 
• Upstairs will now be open on Sundays to increase capacity.
• If people, due to mobility or preference, wish to sit downstairs for the Sunday service you will need to contact Julie to book a place. Otherwise, the booking arrangements will be suspended, and people will be seated on a first come first served basis, utilising both the main body of the church and upstairs. The capacity of the church will be 60 people.
• People will still be encouraged to record via the track and trace app.
• We will continue with the current arrangements for sharing the peace.
• Communion – will be administered in the pews as now. We will follow the option to administer the bread only at this time. We will request that people continue to wear a face covering when receiving Communion to protect both themselves and visiting clergy.
• Coffee – will not be available after any service at this stage.
• The online service will continue to support those who are not able to return currently.
• Wednesday Service – Wednesday service at 10:00am will start again from the 18^th August.
• Life Events Weddings/Baptisms/Funerals – The church can accommodate 68 people utilising upstairs and downstairs and choir stalls. The number able to attend will be at the discretion of the person officiating at the service. Singing will be requested to be undertaken behind face coverings.

As you can imagine trying to get the balance right is very difficult, but we will keep the guidance under review. We will continue to take our steer from the Church of England and Public Health England guidance to make sure that we are keeping us all as safe as possible.

The church will continue to open on Thursdays and Sundays from 9am until 5pm.

Nick Tooby – Churchwarden
On behalf of the PCC

Online Service & Bulletin

The PCC met on Monday 13^th September and has agreed that the online service will come to an end from this Sunday (19^th September). The online service has been a great way for us as a church to meet together during the pandemic. We are so grateful for the IT team who have worked continuously during the pandemic putting the online services together (all working fulltime), all the readers, leaders and preachers who have made it possible for us to worship throughout. It was also agreed that the bulletin would reduce to once a week with it being sent out on a Friday starting from next week.

Becky Crowe – Churchwarden
On behalf of the PCC

Holiday

The parish administrator is now on holiday until Monday 20^th September. For any church bookings or urgent enquiries please contact Becky Crowe, church warden, on 07875 552518.

Church Opening Times.

Reminder that the church is open for private prayer on Thursday (9am – 5am) and after the service on Sunday until 6pm.

Annual Sponsored Walk

Good luck to our wonderful, sponsored walkers who will be walking around the six churches of the Pontesbury and Stipertones tomorrow (20 miles). Its not too late to sponsor Selina, Veronika and Lin (and anyone else who would like to join them).

How do you sponsor:

• Sponsorship form is in church
• Use our specific online giving page, which is secure and offers a receipt, just follow the link – https://givealittle.co/campaigns/5f369064-5669-4be8-94e1-86e6e23fbef8
• You can telephone Lin direct for her to record you’re her number is 0247468535
• Give your donation to one of the Churchwardens

Please support this worthy cause, as over the past 18 months due to the ongoing pandemic, we have been unable to continue with many of our fundraising events and the money donated will continue to support the work of our church. Thank you all.     

Lin Chylinski

 Wednesday Service

Our Wednesday Service has now resumed and commences weekly at 10am. Everyone welcome. There is no need to reserve a seat.

Church Volunteers

This is a reminder that anyone who volunteers for a role at St Andrew’s, whether paid or unpaid, must be safely recruited and may also require a DBS check. St Andrew’s are proud to abide by the regulations stipulated by the diocese to ensure the safety of all as far as we possibly can. 

If you have a role, or volunteered for a role within the church and have not been safely recruited please contact either Julie Crow (Parish Administrator) or Linda Chylinksi (Parish Safeguarding Officer) immediately. The contact details are:

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk

Parish Safeguarding Officer: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

Sidespersons Rota

We are looking to resume a sidespersons rota for Sunday services. If you are willing to do sidesperson duty please let Julie or one of the churchwardens know.

Please note that each individual will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Flower Rota Coordinator

Ann Dove, having done the role for several years, is standing down as Flower Rota Coordinator. We are now looking to recruit a volunteer to take over the role. If you would like more information and a copy of the job description, please contact Julie on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk.

Please note that you will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Book Club

The next Book Club meeting will be on Tuesday 14^th September at 7.30pm and the book we have chosen is: Who moved the Stone, by Frank Morrison.  A well-known book seller says this about the book: The classic text on examining the evidence for the Resurrection. Convinced that the story wasn’t true, Frank Morison started to write about Jesus’ last days. However, as he studied this crucial period something happened… First published in 1930, this is an exploration of what happened between the death of Jesus and the resurrection as recorded in the Bible. Writing this book changed Morison’s life.

Why not read it and join us to discuss what it says?

Any questions please contact Sue Masters.

BUILDING OUR FAITH

Our Wednesday evening Bible  Study and fellowship resumes on Wednesday 15^th September at 7.30pm on Zoom.  We will be looking at Old Testament characters over the next few weeks and everyone is welcome to join us.

The zoom joining details are:

812 4505 0020

Passcode: 295068

If you have not joined us before you are very welcome. If you have any questions please  contact me.

Sue Masters

Youth Work

We are looking to safer recruit volunteers for our Youth work. If you feel you could help with either the Drama Club, Rock Solid or the Youth Wellbeing course then please get in touch with Emma at standrewscovyouth@gmail.com 

Foodbank Donations

To donate to Central foodbank, Sue Barnes is coordinating this so please contact her to drop off food at her house. Contact Sue at susanbarnes1960@outlook.com

If you are unable to give food you can also donate online here: https://www.trusselltrust.org/rddonate-checkout/

Update

We just took this picture of Ella and thought we’d send it over. She is with a rose from the tree we received as one of our leaving gifts!
Just to say we are all doing well and settling in to life down south.  Its great to be closer to parents and other family in both sides and we’ve been taking advantage of that with lots of visits.

Phil & Anne

Do send Julie your favourite bible verses or hymn verses, names for prayer and any birthdays, celebrations or articles for inclusion in the bulletin. Julie can be contacted on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk

Church Contacts

Churchwardens: Nick Tooby – 07951 925772 and Becky Crowe – 07875 552518

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847

Parish Safeguarding Officer and Children’s Advocate: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

Church Bulletin

“A remarkable achievement at such a young age!” An understandable response from our Queen to Emma Raducanu’s amazing success at the US Open Tennis Championship this week.  Only 18 years of age and reaching her first Grand Slam victory.  Emma has certainly experienced a meteoric rise to success, wealth and fame. 

Emma has achieved top grades with her A levels this year too and it is apparent that she is a highly intelligent and a seemingly well-grounded young lady.  In her response to the hordes of journalists’  questions, she has happily acknowledged her parents’ vital input into her development, “I think that the calmness and the mental strength definitely comes from my upbringing.”   But there must have been sacrifices.  She has had to work very hard at her training, probably forfeiting normal childhood and typical teenage freedom.  Her parents have had to release their care of her to the Tennis Association team.  Restrictions on USA travel meant that they were not even allowed to watch their beautiful, talented daughter play her matches.

If I’m honest, there is part of me that is anxious for Emma’s well being.  She has reached staggering heights of success and joy, but she has also become a commodity.  A young woman who will be chased by those who are eager to take advantage of her skills and make money out of her.  How does one cope with all that?  Just now, her world is her oyster, but I pray that those who look after her will protect her and guide her whilst giving her sufficient freedom to develop naturally.  No easy task!

Those of us of mature years may remember our 18^th year with fondness.  For my generation, we didn’t come of age legally until we were 21 but many of us had been at work since we were 16.  Others were at college or university or apprenticed.  In those days jobs were easy to come by, Unions were outspoken and strikes common.  Sports men and women were paid very little and Tennis stars such as Virginia Wade and Sue Barker had to make their own travel arrangements and sort out their own accommodation.  How the world does change!

Thankfully, our God does not change.  He is our rock. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”  Hebrews 13; 8.  When faced with life’s challenges, the ups of success and the downs of failure, God is there with us, holding our hand, always faithful, loving us for who we are.  That wonderful hymn ‘Faithful One’ by Brian Doerksen says it all:

Faithful One, so unchanging Ageless One, You’re my rock of peace Lord of all, I depend on You I call out to You, again and again I call out to You, again and again

You are my rock in times of trouble You lift me up when I fall down All through the storm Your love is, the anchor My hope is in You alone

Lesley Lee,  Reader

Church Guidelines

The PCC met on Monday 2^nd August and have agreed the following changes which will be reviewed regularly.

People are requested to:

• use the sanitiser when entering church.
• Social distance
• Use a face covering when in church.

• Singing – will now be allowed but requested to be done behind a face covering.
• Move to a 1 metre distance – therefore all pews will be open, but only 2 people (related or formally in a bubble) are allowed to sit in each pew. People will be asked to sit at the opposite end of the pew from the people in the pew in front/behind. This is to achieve the 1 metre social distance. 
• Upstairs will now be open on Sundays to increase capacity.
• If people, due to mobility or preference, wish to sit downstairs for the Sunday service you will need to contact Julie to book a place. Otherwise, the booking arrangements will be suspended, and people will be seated on a first come first served basis, utilising both the main body of the church and upstairs. The capacity of the church will be 60 people.
• People will still be encouraged to record via the track and trace app.
• We will continue with the current arrangements for sharing the peace.
• Communion – will be administered in the pews as now. We will follow the option to administer the bread only at this time. We will request that people continue to wear a face covering when receiving Communion to protect both themselves and visiting clergy.
• Coffee – will not be available after any service at this stage.
• The online service will continue to support those who are not able to return currently.
• Wednesday Service – Wednesday service at 10:00am will start again from the 18^th August.
• Life Events Weddings/Baptisms/Funerals – The church can accommodate 68 people utilising upstairs and downstairs and choir stalls. The number able to attend will be at the discretion of the person officiating at the service. Singing will be requested to be undertaken behind face coverings.

As you can imagine trying to get the balance right is very difficult, but we will keep the guidance under review. We will continue to take our steer from the Church of England and Public Health England guidance to make sure that we are keeping us all as safe as possible.

The church will continue to open on Thursdays and Sundays from 9am until 5pm.

Nick Tooby – Churchwarden
On behalf of the PCC

Holiday

The parish administrator is now on holiday until Monday 20^th September. For any church bookings or urgent enquiries please contact Becky Crowe, church warden, on 07875 552518.

Annual Sponsored Walk

On September 18th, Selina, Veronika and Lin (and anyone else who would like to join us), will be walking around the six churches of the Pontesbury and Stipertones group along with members of Greg’s new congregation. This is approximately 20 miles of quite hilly terrain, so more difficult than it sounds. We would like as many people to sponsor us as possible, and all proceeds will go to St. Andrews church.

How do you sponsor us:

• Sponsorship form is in church
• Use our specific online giving page, which is secure and offers a receipt, just follow the link – https://givealittle.co/campaigns/5f369064-5669-4be8-94e1-86e6e23fbef8
• You can telephone Lin direct for her to record you’re her number is 0247468535
• Give your donation to one of the Churchwardens

Please support this worthy cause, as over the past 18 months due to the ongoing pandemic, we have been unable to continue with many of our fundraising events and the money donated will continue to support the work of our church. Thank you all.     

Lin Chylinski

 Wednesday Service

Our Wednesday Service has now resumed and commences weekly at 10am. Everyone welcome. There is no need to reserve a seat.

Church Volunteers

This is a reminder that anyone who volunteers for a role at St Andrew’s, whether paid or unpaid, must be safely recruited and may also require a DBS check. St Andrew’s are proud to abide by the regulations stipulated by the diocese to ensure the safety of all as far as we possibly can. 

If you have a role, or volunteered for a role within the church and have not been safely recruited please contact either Julie Crow (Parish Administrator) or Linda Chylinksi (Parish Safeguarding Officer) immediately. The contact details are:

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk

Parish Safeguarding Officer: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

Sidespersons Rota

We are looking to resume a sidespersons rota for Sunday services. If you are willing to do sidesperson duty please let Julie or one of the churchwardens know.

Please note that each individual will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Flower Rota Coordinator

Ann Dove, having done the role for several years, is standing down as Flower Rota Coordinator. We are now looking to recruit a volunteer to take over the role. If you would like more information and a copy of the job description, please contact Julie on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk.

Please note that you will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Book Club

The next Book Club meeting will be on Tuesday 14^th September at 7.30pm and the book we have chosen is: Who moved the Stone, by Frank Morrison.  A well-known book seller says this about the book: The classic text on examining the evidence for the Resurrection. Convinced that the story wasn’t true, Frank Morison started to write about Jesus’ last days. However, as he studied this crucial period something happened… First published in 1930, this is an exploration of what happened between the death of Jesus and the resurrection as recorded in the Bible. Writing this book changed Morison’s life.

Why not read it and join us to discuss what it says?

Any questions please contact Sue Masters.

BUILDING OUR FAITH

Our Wednesday evening Bible  Study and fellowship resumes on Wednesday 15^th September at 7.30pm on Zoom.  We will be looking at Old Testament characters over the next few weeks and everyone is welcome to join us.

The zoom joining details are:

812 4505 0020

Passcode: 295068

If you have not joined us before you are very welcome. If you have any questions please  contact me.

Sue Masters

Youth Work

We are looking to safer recruit volunteers for our Youth work. If you feel you could help with either the Drama Club, Rock Solid or the Youth Wellbeing course then please get in touch with Emma at standrewscovyouth@gmail.com 

Foodbank Donations

To donate to Central foodbank, Sue Barnes is coordinating this so please contact her to drop off food at her house. Contact Sue at susanbarnes1960@outlook.com

If you are unable to give food you can also donate online here: https://www.trusselltrust.org/rddonate-checkout/

Sad News

On Monday afternoon Peter Bruton died after a short illness. Peter has been a member of our church for 30 years and over that time has served God and the church community in many ways. Most people will remember Peter serving as a side’s person or reading at the lectern on a Sunday. However, he was over many years involved in fund raising for the church and took an active role in the social events the church held. Peter will be missed by our Church family and we send our love and prayers to Sheila, Julia and James.

Do send Julie your favourite bible verses or hymn verses, names for prayer and any birthdays, celebrations or articles for inclusion in the bulletin. Julie can be contacted on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk

Church Contacts

Churchwardens: Nick Tooby – 07951 925772 and Becky Crowe – 07875 552518

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847

Parish Safeguarding Officer and Children’s Advocate: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

Church Bulletin

To celebrate our wedding anniversary, we purchased tickets for the open air theatre at the RSC in Stratford. An outdoor production of The Comedy of Errors promised an evening of entertainment and humour and was much anticipated as it was a long time since we had been to the Theatre. Almost a week of beautiful sunshine and balmy evenings added to the appeal of this evening as we looked forward to our visit to Stratford.

Despite the weather forecasts that predicted rain we were optimistic, and  then on Thursday in the early afternoon the heavens opened  and the rain came. We drove to Stratford with the rain  stopping and starting. We made our way to the theatre in heavy rain and as we neared the entrance a queue of people indicated that people were being held back from entering the theatre.  In conversations with others waiting, we learned that the afternoon performance had been cancelled and that  the theatre staff were awaiting updates from the Met Office about possibilities of Lightning and more rain.

Optimism for the evening was beginning to ebb slightly and then as we waited the rain eased and a rainbow appeared over the river, and our hope resurged.  Then… an announcement was made that the performance was cancelled because of the probability of lightening.

Our plans were curtailed and  people streamed  away from the theatre into the streets, to the car parks, and in our case to a local hostelry for a glass of fizz.  The promised evening gone, but the hope of a future visit to the theatre alive as we await our refund or ticket exchange.

Unlike our thwarted hopes of an evening of entertainment our hope in  Christ is secure:  ‘Now faith  is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see’ (Hebrews 11:1)

Sue Masters

Reader

Church Guidelines

The PCC met on Monday 2^nd August and have agreed the following changes which will be reviewed regularly.

People are requested to:

• use the sanitiser when entering church.
• Social distance
• Use a face covering when in church.

• Singing – will now be allowed but requested to be done behind a face covering.
• Move to a 1 metre distance – therefore all pews will be open, but only 2 people (related or formally in a bubble) are allowed to sit in each pew. People will be asked to sit at the opposite end of the pew from the people in the pew in front/behind. This is to achieve the 1 metre social distance. 
• Upstairs will now be open on Sundays to increase capacity.
• If people, due to mobility or preference, wish to sit downstairs for the Sunday service you will need to contact Julie to book a place. Otherwise, the booking arrangements will be suspended, and people will be seated on a first come first served basis, utilising both the main body of the church and upstairs. The capacity of the church will be 60 people.
• People will still be encouraged to record via the track and trace app.
• We will continue with the current arrangements for sharing the peace.
• Communion – will be administered in the pews as now. We will follow the option to administer the bread only at this time. We will request that people continue to wear a face covering when receiving Communion to protect both themselves and visiting clergy.
• Coffee – will not be available after any service at this stage.
• The online service will continue to support those who are not able to return currently.
• Wednesday Service – Wednesday service at 10:00am will start again from the 18^th August.
• Life Events Weddings/Baptisms/Funerals – The church can accommodate 68 people utilising upstairs and downstairs and choir stalls. The number able to attend will be at the discretion of the person officiating at the service. Singing will be requested to be undertaken behind face coverings.

As you can imagine trying to get the balance right is very difficult, but we will keep the guidance under review. We will continue to take our steer from the Church of England and Public Health England guidance to make sure that we are keeping us all as safe as possible.

The church will continue to open on Thursdays and Sundays from 9am until 5pm.

Nick Tooby – Churchwarden
On behalf of the PCC

Annual Sponsored Walk

On September 18th, Selina, Veronika and Lin (and anyone else who would like to join us), will be walking around the six churches of the Pontesbury and Stipertones group along with members of Greg’s new congregation. This is approximately 20 miles of quite hilly terrain, so more difficult than it sounds. We would like as many people to sponsor us as possible, and all proceeds will go to St. Andrews church.

How do you sponsor us:

1. Sponsorship form is in church
2. Use our specific online giving page, which is secure and offers a receipt, just follow the link – https://givealittle.co/campaigns/5f369064-5669-4be8-94e1-86e6e23fbef8
3. You can telephone Lin direct for her to record you’re her number is 0247468535
4. Give your donation to one of the Churchwardens

Please support this worthy cause, as over the past 18 months due to the ongoing pandemic, we have been unable to continue with many of our fundraising events and the money donated will continue to support the work of our church. Thank you all.     

Lin Chylinski

Wednesday Service

Our Wednesday Service has now resumed and commences weekly at 10am. Everyone welcome. There is no need to reserve a seat.

BUILDING OUR FAITH

Our Wednesday evening Bible  Study and fellowship resumes on Wednesday 15^th September at 7.30pm on Zoom.  We will be looking at Old Testament characters over the next few weeks and everyone is welcome to join us.

The zoom joining details are:

812 4505 0020

Passcode: 295068

If you have not joined us before you are very welcome. If you have any questions please  contact me.

Sue Masters

Church Volunteers

This is a reminder that anyone who volunteers for a role at St Andrew’s, whether paid or unpaid, must be safely recruited and may also require a DBS check. St Andrew’s are proud to abide by the regulations stipulated by the diocese to ensure the safety of all as far as we possibly can. 

If you have a role, or volunteered for a role within the church and have not been safely recruited please contact either Julie Crow (Parish Administrator) or Linda Chylinksi (Parish Safeguarding Officer) immediately. The contact details are:

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk

Parish Safeguarding Officer: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

Sidespersons Rota

We are looking to resume a sidespersons rota for Sunday services. If you are willing to do sidesperson duty please let Julie or one of the churchwardens know.

Please note that each individual will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Flower Rota Coordinator

Ann Dove, having done the role for several years, is standing down as Flower Rota Coordinator. We are now looking to recruit a volunteer to take over the role. If you would like more information and a copy of the job description, please contact Julie on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk.

Please note that you will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Book Club

The next Book Club meeting will be on Tuesday 14^th September at 7.30pm and the book we have chosen is: Who moved the Stone, by Frank Morrison.  A well-known book seller says this about the book: The classic text on examining the evidence for the Resurrection. Convinced that the story wasn’t true, Frank Morison started to write about Jesus’ last days. However, as he studied this crucial period something happened… First published in 1930, this is an exploration of what happened between the death of Jesus and the resurrection as recorded in the Bible. Writing this book changed Morison’s life.

Why not read it and join us to discuss what it says?

Any questions please contact Sue Masters.

Youth Work

We are looking to safer recruit volunteers for our Youth work. If you feel you could help with either the Drama Club, Rock Solid or the Youth Wellbeing course then please get in touch with Emma at standrewscovyouth@gmail.com 

Foodbank Donations

To donate to Central foodbank, Sue Barnes is coordinating this so please contact her to drop off food at her house. Contact Sue at susanbarnes1960@outlook.com

If you are unable to give food you can also donate online here: https://www.trusselltrust.org/rddonate-checkout/

Sad News

On Monday afternoon Peter Bruton died after a short illness. Peter has been a member of our church for 30 years and over that time has served God and the church community in many ways. Most people will remember Peter serving as a side’s person or reading at the lectern on a Sunday. However, he was over many years involved in fund raising for the church and took an active role in the social events the church held. Peter will be missed by our Church family and we send our love and prayers to Sheila, Julia and James.

Sunday Coffee Gathering

The access codes for the 11.15am Sunday gathering are:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88959758216?pwd=RXJ2SWdWNW5DMlhKOXJsak1GUzRCdz09

Meeting ID: 889 5975 8216
Passcode: 504896

Do send Julie your favourite bible verses or hymn verses, names for prayer and any birthdays, celebrations or articles for inclusion in the bulletin. Julie can be contacted on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk

Church Contacts

Churchwardens: Nick Tooby – 07951 925772 and Becky Crowe – 07875 552518

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847

Parish Safeguarding Officer and Children’s Advocate: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

Church Bulletin

This weekend Lesley Lee and I were relicensed as Readers in the Coventry Diocese by Bishop John,  along with around  70 other Readers  This is a process that happens every four years, after a review of our ministry with someone nominated by the Reader committee, and also usually with the vicar, obviously that part was not possible for me as we await our new vicar.

In his sermon the Bishop spoke of Readers as Lay Theologians and people who make connections between church and the world, The Bishop’s opening words  highlighted that ‘Readers are called to serve the church of God and to work together with Clergy and other ministers;  to preach and teach and to encourage the ministries of God’s people, as the  Spirit distribute gifts among us all.’

It was an opportunity for us reconfirm our commitment to God, and also to working collaboratively with others, to continue to develop our discipleship and to make Christ known. This was a space also to renew my commitment to the family of St. Andrew’s and to our parish. It was an important day for me that reaffirms my own ministry and looks ahead to a future where God will lead me.

Reader ministry is one that is licensed and authorised by the Bishop but it is one of many ministries in the church. As we lead and preach and work to make Christ known, encouraging others is an important part of our ministry as Readers. God calls us all to use the gifts he has given us in His service, and for the good of others. A healthy church is one where God’s people respond to His call and use the gifts God gives us to build up others and to glorify God. 

‘Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received. ‘(1 Peter 4:10)

Sue Masters

Reader

Church Guidelines

The PCC met on Monday 2^nd August and have agreed the following changes which will be reviewed regularly.

People are requested to:

• use the sanitiser when entering church.
• Social distance
• Use a face covering when in church.

• Singing – will now be allowed but requested to be done behind a face covering.
• Move to a 1 metre distance – therefore all pews will be open, but only 2 people (related or formally in a bubble) are allowed to sit in each pew. People will be asked to sit at the opposite end of the pew from the people in the pew in front/behind. This is to achieve the 1 metre social distance. 
• Upstairs will now be open on Sundays to increase capacity.
• If people, due to mobility or preference, wish to sit downstairs for the Sunday service you will need to contact Julie to book a place. Otherwise, the booking arrangements will be suspended, and people will be seated on a first come first served basis, utilising both the main body of the church and upstairs. The capacity of the church will be 60 people.
• People will still be encouraged to record via the track and trace app.
• We will continue with the current arrangements for sharing the peace.
• Communion – will be administered in the pews as now. We will follow the option to administer the bread only at this time. We will request that people continue to wear a face covering when receiving Communion to protect both themselves and visiting clergy.
• Coffee – will not be available after any service at this stage.
• The online service will continue to support those who are not able to return currently.
• Wednesday Service – Wednesday service at 10:00am will start again from the 18^th August.
• Life Events Weddings/Baptisms/Funerals – The church can accommodate 68 people utilising upstairs and downstairs and choir stalls. The number able to attend will be at the discretion of the person officiating at the service. Singing will be requested to be undertaken behind face coverings.

As you can imagine trying to get the balance right is very difficult, but we will keep the guidance under review. We will continue to take our steer from the Church of England and Public Health England guidance to make sure that we are keeping us all as safe as possible.

The church will continue to open on Thursdays and Sundays from 9am until 5pm.

Nick Tooby – Churchwarden
On behalf of the PCC

Annual Sponsored Walk

On September 18th, Selina, Veronika and Lin (and anyone else who would like to join us), will be walking around the six churches of the Pontesbury and Stipertones group along with members of Greg’s new congregation. This is approximately 20 miles of quite hilly terrain, so more difficult than it sounds. We would like as many people to sponsor us as possible, and all proceeds will go to St. Andrews church.

How do you sponsor us:

Please support this worthy cause, as over the past 18 months due to the ongoing pandemic, we have been unable to continue with many of our fundraising events and the money donated will continue to support the work of our church. Thank you all.     

Lin Chylinski

Holiday

The parish administrator is now on holiday until Monday 20^th September. For any church bookings or urgent enquiries please contact Becky Crowe, church warden, on 07875 552518

Church Volunteers

This is a reminder that anyone who volunteers for a role at St Andrew’s, whether paid or unpaid, must be safely recruited and may also require a DBS check. St Andrew’s are proud to abide by the regulations stipulated by the diocese to ensure the safety of all as far as we possibly can. 

If you have a role, or volunteered for a role within the church and have not been safely recruited please contact either Julie Crow (Parish Administrator) or Linda Chylinksi (Parish Safeguarding Officer) immediately. The contact details are:

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk

Parish Safeguarding Officer: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

Sidespersons Rota

We are looking to resume a sidespersons rota for Sunday services. If you are willing to do sidesperson duty please let Julie or one of the churchwardens know.

Please note that each individual will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Flower Rota Coordinator

Ann Dove, having done the role for several years, is standing down as Flower Rota Coordinator. We are now looking to recruit a volunteer to take over the role. If you would like more information and a copy of the job description, please contact Julie on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk.

Please note that you will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Book Club

The next Book Club meeting will be on Tuesday 14^th September at 7.30pm and the book we have chosen is: Who moved the Stone, by Frank Morrison.  A well-known book seller says this about the book: The classic text on examining the evidence for the Resurrection. Convinced that the story wasn’t true, Frank Morison started to write about Jesus’ last days. However, as he studied this crucial period something happened… First published in 1930, this is an exploration of what happened between the death of Jesus and the resurrection as recorded in the Bible. Writing this book changed Morison’s life.

Why not read it and join us to discuss what it says?

Any questions please contact Sue Masters.

Youth Work

We are looking to safer recruit volunteers for our Youth work. If you feel you could help with either the Drama Club, Rock Solid or the Youth Wellbeing course then please get in touch with Emma at standrewscovyouth@gmail.com 

Foodbank Donations

To donate to Central foodbank, Sue Barnes is coordinating this so please contact her to drop off food at her house. Contact Sue at susanbarnes1960@outlook.com

If you are unable to give food you can also donate online here: https://www.trusselltrust.org/rddonate-checkout/

Please Pray

For Peter Bruton who is in hospital.

Do send Julie your favourite bible verses or hymn verses, names for prayer and any birthdays, celebrations or articles for inclusion in the bulletin. Julie can be contacted on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk

Church Contacts

Churchwardens: Nick Tooby – 07951 925772 and Becky Crowe – 07875 552518

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847

Parish Safeguarding Officer and Children’s Advocate: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

Church Bulletin

One of the most exciting things about my faith is the fact that people are continuingly asking me questions about it. This is both exciting but also at times quite challenging. Last week I was in church recording my parts for the on-line service when a member of the church came in and asked if it was ok for them to sit quietly in church for a while. “ Of course, you can I said” and went into the vestry to give them some space. Suddenly there was what sounded like quite a few people in church talking and I went out to see what was going on. To my surprise there was still the same person sitting there and when I enquired if they had heard all the noise, they explained it was them and they were listening to an audio bible reading, with different people reading parts. This led to a discussion about how we all access our Bible in different ways. I was then asked, “how do you study the Bible?” For a moment I had to think, “er….. well in many different ways” was my inadequate response. My enquirer wasn’t having any of that….” So, give me an example he said?”  I talked about how I study specific passages for sermons, how I use daily Bible notes to help me bring passages to life. How I often use a Bible commentary by Alister McGrath to help me understand passages that are too complicated for my small brain to understand. “Oh, right” was the response, “ I like to hear the Bible read to me as I can concentrate on it, which I find easier than reading it myself” my enquirer responded.

I mention this today because since I had this chat, it has made me think and question how do I study the Bible and what is the best way?

In today’s society, we are blessed with having so many different ways to access the Bible, audio, the written word, through the Internet and of course via film and TV. In fact, there are so many ways there simply isn’t any excuse not to be able to access the Bible in a way and format that suits you and your life style. However, accessing is different from studying something. Lesley and Sue have held an on-line Bible study meeting entitled “Building Your Faith” for many months, and is a great way of people meeting together to discuss a specific topic, passage, character or event from the Bible. I would certainly encourage you to try this approach when they start up again. The evening is interesting and if you’ve never thought about studying the Bible it is a perfect way to begin. It is not full of theologians but just curious people eager to explore and ask questions.

So, what is my approach:

    Exploring – if I’m looking at a passage, I have to understand what the context is. What happened in the verses before and after? I look to try and find out the Who, What, Where and When questions. Who are the characters? Why are they in this part of the reading? When is this taking place? – I find a Bible commentary is useful for this or a book called “The Life” by J John is a great book for setting the scene on the life of Jesus and the gospels.

    Interpretation – What does the text mean? Again, I’ll often use a Bible Commentary to help me with this or one of the many Bible Study booklets where they look at a passage each day. I’ll even look on the internet, but be warned, you do have to be careful, and I always focus on sites I trust. All these formats are meant to help us understand, but equally raise questions within us. Sometimes I’ll seek out someone I trust to get their views on the subject. There are plenty of people within our church who would be more than willing to help you with a question.

    Application – What does this text mean to my life? – My faith must have a meaning today and so therefore I need to bring it to life for me. The text may have been set thousands of years ago, but the principles are timeless. What is it saying to me today about my life and my relationship with God? As I answer these questions the Bible then brings its significance to my life.

So that is the more considered answer to the question I was asked. Is it the best way? It is for me, but I encourage you to find the best way for you. There are so many opportunities for us all to grow in our faith. Romans 15 vs 4 – “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope”.

Nick Tooby – Churchwarden

Church Guidelines

The PCC met on Monday 2^nd August and have agreed the following changes which will be reviewed regularly.

People are requested to:

• use the sanitiser when entering church.
• Social distance
• Use a face covering when in church.

• Singing – will now be allowed but requested to be done behind a face covering.
• Move to a 1 metre distance – therefore all pews will be open, but only 2 people (related or formally in a bubble) are allowed to sit in each pew. People will be asked to sit at the opposite end of the pew from the people in the pew in front/behind. This is to achieve the 1 metre social distance. 
• Upstairs will now be open on Sundays to increase capacity.
• If people, due to mobility or preference, wish to sit downstairs for the Sunday service you will need to contact Julie to book a place. Otherwise, the booking arrangements will be suspended, and people will be seated on a first come first served basis, utilising both the main body of the church and upstairs. The capacity of the church will be 60 people.
• People will still be encouraged to record via the track and trace app.
• We will continue with the current arrangements for sharing the peace.
• Communion – will be administered in the pews as now. We will follow the option to administer the bread only at this time. We will request that people continue to wear a face covering when receiving Communion to protect both themselves and visiting clergy.
• Coffee – will not be available after any service at this stage.
• The online service will continue to support those who are not able to return currently.
• Wednesday Service – Wednesday service at 10:00am will start again from the 18^th August.
• Life Events Weddings/Baptisms/Funerals – The church can accommodate 68 people utilising upstairs and downstairs and choir stalls. The number able to attend will be at the discretion of the person officiating at the service. Singing will be requested to be undertaken behind face coverings.

As you can imagine trying to get the balance right is very difficult, but we will keep the guidance under review. We will continue to take our steer from the Church of England and Public Health England guidance to make sure that we are keeping us all as safe as possible.

The church will continue to open on Thursdays and Sundays from 9am until 5pm.

Nick Tooby – Churchwarden
On behalf of the PCC

Annual Sponsored Walk

On September 18th, Selina, Veronika and Lin (and anyone else who would like to join us), will be walking around the six churches of the Pontesbury and Stipertones group along with members of Greg’s new congregation. This is approximately 20 miles of quite hilly terrain, so more difficult than it sounds. We would like as many people to sponsor us as possible, and all proceeds will go to St. Andrews church.

How do you sponsor us:

Please support this worthy cause, as over the past 18 months due to the ongoing pandemic, we have been unable to continue with many of our fundraising events and the money donated will continue to support the work of our church. Thank you all.     

Lin Chylinski

 Children’s Service

Our next Children’s service will take place in church on Sunday 5^th September.

Wednesday Service

Our Wednesday Service has now resumed and commences weekly at 10am. Everyone welcome. There is no need to reserve a seat.

Church Volunteers

This is a reminder that anyone who volunteers for a role at St Andrew’s, whether paid or unpaid, must be safely recruited and may also require a DBS check. St Andrew’s are proud to abide by the regulations stipulated by the diocese to ensure the safety of all as far as we possibly can. 

If you have a role, or volunteered for a role within the church and have not been safely recruited please contact either Julie Crow (Parish Administrator) or Linda Chylinksi (Parish Safeguarding Officer) immediately. The contact details are:

Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk

Parish Safeguarding Officer: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535 

Sidespersons Rota

We are looking to resume a sidespersons rota for Sunday services. If you are willing to do sidesperson duty please let Julie or one of the churchwardens know.

Please note that each individual will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Flower Rota Coordinator

Ann Dove, having done the role for several years, is standing down as Flower Rota Coordinator. We are now looking to recruit a volunteer to take over the role. If you would like more information and a copy of the job description, please contact Julie on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk.

Please note that you will need to be safely recruited for this role. We will need a short application form completing and contact details to obtain 2 references. A DBS check will not be required for this role.

Book Club

The next Book Club meeting will be on Tuesday 14^th September at 7.30pm and the book we have chosen is: Who moved the Stone, by Frank Morrison.  A well-known book seller says this about the book: The classic text on examining the evidence for the Resurrection. Convinced that the story wasn’t true, Frank Morison started to write about Jesus’ last days. However, as he studied this crucial period something happened… First published in 1930, this is an exploration of what happened between the death of Jesus and the resurrection as recorded in the Bible. Writing this book changed Morison’s life.

Why not read it and join us to discuss what it says?

Any questions please contact Sue Masters.

Youth Work

We are looking to safer recruit volunteers for our Youth work. If you feel you could help with either the Drama Club, Rock Solid or the Youth Wellbeing course then please get in touch with Emma at standrewscovyouth@gmail.com 

Foodbank Donations

To donate to Central foodbank, Sue Barnes is coordinating this so please contact her to drop off food at her house. Contact Sue at susanbarnes1960@outlook.com

If you are unable to give food you can also donate online here: https://www.trusselltrust.org/rddonate-checkout/

Sunday Coffee Gathering

The access codes for the 11.15am Sunday gathering are:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88959758216?pwd=RXJ2SWdWNW5DMlhKOXJsak1GUzRCdz09

Meeting ID: 889 5975 8216
Passcode: 504896

Do send Julie your favourite bible verses or hymn verses, names for prayer and any birthdays, celebrations or articles for inclusion in the bulletin. Julie can be contacted on 07756 918847 or administrator@standrews-eg.org.uk