Mark's blog

Leaders Day refreshing

2012-01-29T13:27:00.002-06:00

On Saturday we had our annual Leaders Day. It was great. The new Beacon Centre was a fitting venue as we looked back over the past year of God's goodness and looked forward together to what He has in store for us in 2012. Even with some Youth Leaders away at Newfrontiers training I am humbled by the number and high calibre of dedicated leaders we have who serve so faithfully week by week. What a Team. We are so blessed.
We spent some time considering some of the prophetic words so far this year and looking at the plans we have for the church diary. During the first worship session God's presence was very real which set the tone for the day. He spoke clearly to us about being in His presence and taking His presence where ever we go.
Emily's word from 2 weeks ago still resonates in my soul: "I will display my glory amongst you...in My presence...in miracles..in provision..."

Sushi on Wednesday

2012-01-26T03:51:00.003-06:00

My enjoyment of the new church building knows no bounds. I am still thrilled each day to go to the new Beacon Centre and have a warm place to work with the staff - we used to have to wrap up in the winter to go to the old office. I am no longer apprehensive of another break in or damage to the (old) property. Every day there is some meeting, activity, party, going on - often several in a day. It is great to be in a warm, comfortable, secure building that is so alive and exciting.
On Wednesday my delight at being in the new building reached new heights when after a Cafe Craft Japanese food demonstration by Liz Teo I was offered Sushi for lunch! Occasionally I might manage a biscuit from Smarties (mother and toddlers), a cake from Golden Years(50+) but sushi from Cafe Craft!
Cafe Craft is just one of the new community initiatives in the building. It takes place on Wednesday afternoons at The Beacon and does what it says on the tin - a chance to do some craft with friends with tea and cakes (and sushi!).

Adrian Holloway

2012-01-24T03:11:00.002-06:00

Sometimes it is just a pleasure to be with someone - do you know that feeling? It was a real pleasure being with Adrian Holloway on Sunday. First I should explain - Adrian Holloway is a well known speaker in the UK. Young people know him from the platform at New Day where he is part of the regular line-up speaking to 1,000s of young people. He is also the author of The Shock of the Your Life and Aftershock. He also travels widely helping churches.
Adrian was great on Sunday morning addressing the church - so encouraging about making friends and over time helping those friends in the process of coming to know Christ.
Most people see the great communicator Adrian but what most people do not see however is the gracious, loving, patient husband and the attentive, devoted diligent father. Adrian is definitely a family man - married to the lovely Julia with four delightful daughters.
He speaks - but more than that his life speaks.

Watching Handball in London

2012-01-19T13:32:00.007-06:00

I watched Handball in London this week. Handball is like football in a sports hall. It is fast - very fast. It is also skillful and exhilarating. It is one of the ultimate team sports. Some of the top players in the country were there and I was seriously impressed. They were good. Very good. I felt like I was watching a herd of colourful gazelles in action. The change of pace, the speed of pass, the feint and dummy, the power, the practiced athleticism...
Phoebe also joined in and was quickly red of face and sore in hand!
I am often impressed with athletes who train hard and sacrifice a lot to be the best. I am similarly impressed with musicians, artists, dancers, singers who also practice, practice, practice. Anyone really who gives there all to their craft, art, skill, sport, parenting impresses me. I find it a joy to watch and a challenge.
What if we were all willing to give more, sacrifice more, go without more, focus more - how different would we be, how honed our skill, how different our body, how different our world...?

The Hebridean Revival

2012-01-17T08:48:00.003-06:00

I have been reading about the Hebridean Revival recently. It took place in 1949. A Revival is when the people of God are revived and come alive to Him in a fresh way and when lots of people turn to God. There have been lots of Revivals through out history. Some are happening now in places like South Korea and Columbia when churches of tens of thousands are common - some meeting in football stadiums. I have had the privilege of visiting both countries to observe what God is doing. It truely is amazing.
One of the hallmarks of Revival is prayer. In both South Korea and Columbia the earnest prayer of the people of God is immensely challenging. One of the hall marks of the Hebridean Revival was prayer too - largely started by and attributed to Peggy and Christine Smith - 2 sisters, 82 and 84 years old. Both were infirm and both knew how to pray.
As Revival fire spread throughout the Hebredean Islands 100s would gather together, often spontaneously, to pray and get right with God - in churches, barns, schools, fields, homes - by day and night. What might God do in our locality if we followed Peggy and Christine's example?

Budget in the home budget in the church.

2012-01-13T14:52:00.002-06:00

This week end is the church Big Budget Meeting. This is when the trustees sit down and work through the church budgets for the financial year 2012\13. It is an epic meeting which can take up to 5 hours as we diligently plough through each ministry area and scrutinise the budget applied for in the light of current and forcasted financial trends. Much the same principal applies to the home budget - we look at the income against the expenditure and make adjustments accordingly. In brief, as stewards of the resources God gives to us, at home, or in the church, can we afford it?
In recent months the finances of the church have been a challenge - as they have been with many households: pay for some church members has been frozen or in some cases reduced, whilst others have lost their jobs. This impacts the family purse and the church purse. From a church perspective we need to receive about £26k per month in order to cover all the church costs and break even. Added to this is the challenge of paying off the remaining debt of the building, our desire to add to the church staff and wanting to meet the unexpected needs of the poor when they arise. So big financial challenges ahead - at home and in the church.
Let's thank God for the resources He gives us - they are amazing, let's be good and faithful stewards of those resources and let's sow with joy into His purposes.

Got to Dance

2012-01-10T10:19:00.004-06:00

The X-Factor might be over and Strictly finished for the time being but in our house we are definetly following Got to Dance on SKY 1 Sunday evenings.
The main reason for that is the dance crew Antics are lead by my nephew Nathan. Some of the shots of the crew rehearsing for the programme were from my sister's house (and garden). Antics have successfully got past round 1 but now the really tough competition starts. If you have no idea what I am talking about click on the link to see Antics in action from Sunday nights TV programme:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=qc-ej0-A_1Q

Wrappers Rappin

2012-01-06T11:59:00.003-06:00

As well as looking forward to all that 2012 has in store I am still in the afterglow of Christmas. As a church we had a number of Christmas guest events from Carols by Candlelight to the Christmas Show. A vast number of people planned, rehearsed and took part. We had over 1,000 people through the doors (including some, like me, who went to everything); more than 100 of those were guests and visitors. Lots of people come and visit family at Christmas or just attend church because it is Christmas.
I realise too that some who would have liked to see the Show were themselves away. If then you would like to catch a glimpse of what went on click on the link below to see the Wrappers Rappin www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucg5vgo8hHM

from The Beacon Christmas Show 2011. A full cd of the show is available upon request from the church office.
Warning: contains rappin

Plans, plans, plans...

2012-01-04T06:23:00.004-06:00

Like most people and most pastors at this time of year I am spending a lot of time planning the diary - both personal and church. I am also trying to plan down time through out the year and master my diary rather than it master me. Bev and I are also working hard to sync our plans for the year and to make arrangements for the upcoming family wedding in April.
So I decided to start this week with a prayer day. Rather than rush onto the lap top, into meetings and into the diary I thought I should begin the year before God, seeking Him and praying through some things. I am trying to get the balance right of diligent planing, which is godly, whilst leaving room and expectation for God to do (and interrupt) whatever He wills.
I am reminded of the wag who said: "We plan. God laughs".
By contrast the Book of Proverbs tells us: "Commit your way to the Lord and it will succeed".
So I am left wondering: how much am I planning and how much am I planning with God?

Hopes and Dreams

2011-12-31T02:18:00.002-06:00

A tradition in our family at this time of year is Hopes and Dreams. We sit around the breakfast table together and write down our personal Hopes and Dreams for the coming year. We also review Hopes and Dreams for the year gone by. We then thank God for His faithfulness and pray together for the coming year.
I am always pleasantly surprised at how keen the children are to maintain this tradition which is often taxing, moving, humbling and hilarious ("a pair of Ugg boots" was one!).
This weekend is a good time to reflect with thankfulness on the passing year and look forward to and make some plans for the next. New Years resolutions can often be broken by the end of January but a sobering time of reflection and planning may last longer.
You might also like to know that I am the live studio guest on BBC Radio on New Years Day 8.30-9.00am discussing the years highlights in the papers.

Great Christmas

2011-12-26T04:32:00.002-06:00

We had a great Christmas Day which started with a fun time at church. Lots of people have asked me about the Bethlehem Rhapsody video I showed and where they can find it. You can either tap in Bethlehem Rhapsody on youtube or click on the link:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_AJ4xaONTA
As for "the second best nativity video" I mentioned and also requested - that is the NZ Children's Nativity _ either tap in Christmas Story NZ or click on this link:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=zduwusyip8M
Both are good fun.
Lunch time was a full-on LS Christmas dinner cooked by Joseph for the 7 of us (including Luki), watch The Queen (who talked about the importance of family and a Saviour!), open presents, then over to Luki's parents for the games evening. Even back in time for Downton Abbey! Great day.

A day with Dave Devenish

2011-12-22T05:55:00.003-06:00

Dave Devenish is a remarkable man. Until recently he lead a thriving church in Bedford which he has handed over to Martin Tibbert. He travels extensively around the globe helping churches, helping leaders and building the kingdom of God. He is also, at this time, steering Newfrontiers (the family of churches) through a delicate time of transition as Terry Virgo (the founding father) steps back.
Dave is an apostle - he (and his Team) looks after 140 churches in the Caucuses (Southern Russia), 40 churches in the UK plus other church plants in the muslim world. He has a lot on his plate!
Despite all this he has found time to write another book: Fathering leaders - Motivating Mission. It is brilliant. Although I have left it until the end of the year to read, Dave's book is a must read for anyone in any kind of church leadership and now rates as my 2011 Book of the Year.
In an intensely busy schedule Dave also found time to come to Surrey for the day to meet with me and the Home Counties Newfrontiers leaders and to stay on for lunch to chat some more. Impressive.

Standing room only.

2011-12-20T11:44:00.004-06:00

I am still in the afterglow (and tiredness and clear-up!) of the Christmas Show. It was great to see so many taking part with a big cast and equally big back-stage team making it all happen. I think having professionals in Luki, Jools, Kerri and Dan made a big difference, but a huge amount of work from lots of people went into the success of the show. Great too to have a full house of 550 with lots of friends and family visiting - standing room only. One visitor even asked me if she could be in next years show! So many appreciative comments afterwards and so much on Facebook too.
So after Carols by Candlelight and the Show, next is Christmas Eve at The Beacon 11.30pm - very different, then Christmas Day at Kings Int. 10.30am.

It's Show Time!

2011-12-16T14:26:00.002-06:00

This week has been an intense week of preparation and rehearsals for the Christmas Show on Sunday. The house is full of props and costumes. Almost every conversation at home seems to be about lighting, effects, music, script, items of clothing etc. We are definitely in show mode in the Landreth-Smith household - all the family are taking part in various ways. Saturday we rehearse all day. Sunday morning is run through (no church) then the show is Sunday 18th December at 3.00pm at Kings International College. Part panto\part nativity it will be funny at times, cute too (with Luki's dancers and Kerry's dancers) razor sharp at other times with the odd moment of intrigue - something for everyone. Not to be missed.

Need re-inflating?

2011-12-15T11:04:00.002-06:00

At one of the parties I went to on the w\e I returned to my car to discover 2 back tyres were flat. Someone had tampered with them. I slowly limped round to the local garage to re-inflate them - with out success. Time to call for rescue to get us home. "Within the hour they said". 1 1\2 hours later a jolly man called Morris rescued us and took us home on the back of his lorry at 1.15am.
On Monday I took the car to the tyre fixer (well, rescue took me there actually) fearing the worse - " 2 new tyres mate". To my surprise Stuart, the tyre man, said: "You have been the victim of a very considerate vandal. (I did not know there was such a thing!)He has let you tyres down with a valve key". So 2 new tyres not needed after all, thankfully. Valves not tyres - much better.
Apart from not having met a "considerate vandal" to my knowledge, I did wonder when we are feeling flat how do we get re-inflated? Is it time with God to get things and Him in perspective or is it time with a friend to encourage and lift us?

Party, party, party!

2011-12-11T14:22:00.003-06:00

Wow - what a great weekend. Went to 3 parties in 3 days: Friday night with Mahesh in Hounslow - good band. Saturday night with Nigel in Kingston - great food, clever garden marquee. Sunday in Camberley with Paul - fascinating conversations with people much cleverer than me. All non-church parties but each special with some lovely people to meet and chat to. Even enjoyed chatting to the man in the breakdown lorry who brought us home at 1.00am - Christmas is a great time to chat with people and make new friends. Now I have to wait 5 days before the next party.
Finished the w\e with Carols by Candlelight followed by tea and mince pies. Beautiful. Christmas has definitely arrived. To top it all Reading, Man Utd and Beacon FC all won.

Making the most of the media

2011-12-09T10:11:00.004-06:00

I went to the BBC Radio studio in Guildford today to do a pre-recorded piece about Christmas to be broadcast on Sunday morning. It seemed to go OK - in fact the producer asked if I would return as the live studio guest for a New Years Day special looking back over the events of 2011 and looking forward to 2012. Quite a challenge - I had better read more newspapers in preparation for that one.
It has been an interesting week or so with interaction with the media with BBC Radio, presenting for UCB TV and a piece in the local newspaper this week. The media are generally looking for good stories (with hours and inches to fill each week) and the church is full of good peopple with good stories to tell.
Oh, I also entred the world of twitter to see how I get on and if I get any followers ...

Wander and Wonder

2011-12-06T04:41:00.005-06:00

I love reading the Christmas story. Not the Santa Claus one the real one in The Bible. Each year I re-read the narrative and each year am amazed again. I also like to watch nativity plays. We are having one at The Beacon on Sunday 11th Dec at 4.00pm as part of Carols by Candleight. It will be great fun with children (and adults) dressing up. My favourire youtube version of the nativity comes from a very inovative troup in New Zealand who perform a walk through nativity outside www.youtube.com/watch?v=zduwusyip8M

Wether you enjoy nativity plays or not, Christmas is still a good time to wander along to a church near you and wonder again.

Getting ready for Christmas.

2011-12-02T07:41:00.005-06:00

I watched Martin Lewis on Daybreak this morning. He usually has some helpful money-saving tips and has become wealthy and well-known as a result. www.moneysavingexpert.com
His good-advice today however did fall into having a rant about Christmas, even suggesting a ban on buying Christmas presents. In his defence however, he does get fed up by people over-spending at Christmas, getting into debt, then needing help in January to pay off the credit card bill.
Some of his advice was helpful: don't feel the pressure to buy presents for everyone (even those who give you one). He even suggested a pre-nup (No Unnecessary Presents!). I would suggest, as with most purchases, do a realistic budget - how much can you afford to spend on Christmas? Even break it down to cards, stamps, food, drink, travel, presents (how many, maximum amount...). Beverley's family are particularly good at this - "put your wishlist on Amazon, maximum £10, everyone buys one present" (not everyone buying for everyone).

Filming on the beach

2011-11-30T10:36:00.002-06:00

brrrrr....just recovering in the warm after a day in Brighton filming on the sea front. I have been finishing TV programmes (9 for GOD TV and 4 for UCB TV). This meant some more work to camera about churches growing, buildings being outgrown, churches being planted, leaders emerging and lots of signs of health and growth. Some of the programmes are about Newfrontiers with clips taken from the Together On A Mission conference held in July in Brighton (hence returning to film on the same location) and interviews with key leaders. The UCB programmes will go out across the UK and the GOD TV programmes globally.
I always wanted to be a TV presenter so filming today was chilly but fun complete with a man walking past with his dog, a jogger in fluorescent pink and a group of Japanese tourists wanting to take photos of me!

Beacon FC

2011-11-26T14:21:00.003-06:00

For nearly 40 years of my life Saturday afternoon has meant football. Today was no exception - except that I was not playing (my knee will keep out for the rest of the season). I went to watch Beacon FC in a league match away to Woking. Two other Landreth-Smiths were playing. The team is made up of lads who come to church and some who don't. Although it was a tight match Beacon FC came away as 2-0 winners which means they remain unbeaten so far this season. There is still a long way to go but for a new, young side in their first season together it has been a remarkable debut, largely due to the inspirational coach Mike Craig (formerly Youth & Community Officer at Ipswich Town FC).

The challenge of church finances

2011-11-24T14:19:00.005-06:00

In these challenging economic times I have been watching the family finances quite closely, especially as Christmas approaches. I have also been watching the church finances. Thankfully, we have a fantastic Finance Team who are highly skilled and dedicated. Marc Barnett has been brilliant with his monthly financial reports. On Saturday however we needed to meet (for 3 hours) as trustees as the church financial position has become increasing one for concern.
In view of giving being 15% down (and the number of regular giving units dropping) and a present £3k per month deficit we had to make some hard decisions, especially in view of the amount owed on the new building. So in response, as with family finances, budgets are cut, spending restricted and savings made anywhere possible (including stationary and photocopying!).
I am comforted that we are not alone - Newfrontiers has seen its income fall by 15%. Other churches too, especially those with building projects, are feeling the financial squeeze
Let's be diligent but also generous and giving in times of economic challenge. After all, we are called to "live by faith not sight" and reminded that "God loves a cheerful giver".

No Perfect People Allowed

2011-11-22T16:12:00.002-06:00

I am doing my wish list for Christmas. I can always think of books I would like. Not much else. That got me thinking as to what have been the most influential books I have read this year? I think the one book that stands out for me is No Perfect People Allowed by John Burke. It had a profound effect on me. This is the story of a church in Texas that learnt to welcome and love anyone - no matter what their background or pain. Unconditional love to the max. The acceptance of the church is powerful and the stories of many broken lives made whole moving and challenging. It's not new. Its not rocket science, but sometimes we need reminding that Jesus loved people - all kinds of people - and He "came to seek and save that which was lost"

Even pastors need Small Group

2011-11-18T13:56:00.002-06:00

I went to my Small Group this week. I must confess I squeezed it in. I went for a short time as Bev was having a migraine, I had just done dinner and was feeling whacked myself - but I went, largely to say goodbye to Rosie who is moving away. I am glad I went. Rosie lead us in quiet worship with one song then proceeded to speak words of encouragement for me and Bev. The group (sensing my need at the time) then stood and prayed for us. I left invigorated and thankful.
Next day an encouraging email popped into my in box and dinner for the family mysteriously arrived in the kitchen.

More news of the knee...

2011-11-16T11:38:00.003-06:00

I went to the hospital again today - a follow up visit after the knee op. Surprising actually - I was told today that not only did the surgeon cut off and trim the torn cartilage but whilst inside the knee discovered excessive wear on the knee cap. He took the opportunity to operate on the worn knee-cap too. That probably explains the ongoing pain and swelling. So I was told today it would take a further 3 months to recover from the op. So still no sport (apart from front crawl swimming and weight free static bike.) Even physiotherapy would cause it to flare up apparently. I also received a letter from the Chief Exec of Frimley Park Hospital today - I had written to tell him of the excellent care I received and how grateful I am. He seemed pleased.
Learning more patience and marvelling at the intricate design of the knee...

700 in a w\e

2011-11-11T09:59:00.007-06:00

This week end is a special time as we host over 700 people at our meetings. On Saturday 12th November we will host the Newfrontiers regional Setting People Free course at The Beacon. 160 are booked in. We will also host the Inspire Ladies Day at Kings Int College. 220 are booked in for that. Livy Gibbs (left) and Ruth Haslam are the guest speakers. Then on Sunday we have 3 adults wanting to be baptised - over 300 will be in attendance - so about 700 over the w\e.
Look on the new Beacon Church web sitewww.beaconchurch.co.uk
for further details of these and other events.

News of the knee

2011-11-07T12:25:00.003-06:00

For those who are interested in my knee post-op: it is doing quite well. I am diligently putting ice on the knee 3 times a day and trying to exercise it a little. It did swell up and was very hot after Sunday. I think I did too much on it and was standing for quite a long time. I removed the plasters and steri-strips myself on the w\e to reveal the 2 small wounds. Very clever this micro-surgery. I am also off the crutches now and can walk slowly.
As for the rest of my body (post shock) - still a bit weak and wobbly but getting stronger each day. It does mean I have been able to slow down and catch up on some reading.

Breakfast with Michael Gove

2011-11-05T15:47:00.005-05:00

Within one unusual week I have found myself with several VIPs. Not only did the Countess of Wessex come to The Beacon but I recently attended a breakfast where I discovered I was sitting next to Michael Gove. I was the guest of Councillor David Allen at a Conservative Party event. I do know Michael, having met him now several times but his profile in the government and the nation has rocketed in recent months. He and Tom (the winner of The Apprentice) were the 2 speakers at the breakfast. Tom was sitting diagonally opposite me!
Michael Gove is a brilliant orator - intelligent, knowledgeable, with a huge grasp of current affairs and a phenomenal memory both for people and facts. I was very impressed. He has also written a fascinating piece in Saturdays's Daily Mail on adoption - a subject he can speak of with some experience having himself been adopted. His story is very moving and his apparent determination to speed up the process of adoption encouraging.

HRH Countess of Wessex

2011-11-02T17:01:00.005-05:00

The Beacon had a very special Royal visitor on Wednesday - HRH Countess of Wessex came for the Civic Reception at The Beacon Centre. Today's event has been a year in the planning and it was great. HRH was lovely - engaging, chatty and particularly good with the young mums and little children from SMARTIES. In fact, she was not the only dignitary present - there were several others including the Mayor of Surrey Heath, the High Sheriff of Surrey, leader of Surrey County Council, Surrey Heath Councillors and Surrey County representatives - to name a few.
The guests were served a delicious lunch and were given an insight into the life of the Beacon Church. Our own photographer, Andy Teo, was on hand to record the occasion. Photos are available to view on The Beacon website or Facebook. Camberley News and Mail were also present and the Sunday Express who followed Sophie for the day (that edition will be available on 27th November).
Jem and The Beacon team were magnificent. To view photos of the day:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.288823767805930.70447.186430798045228&type=3&l=560c0ab82b

Yay for the NHS

2011-10-31T12:25:00.006-05:00

Out of hospital now and home after and unexpected stay of 3 days - "systemic complications" I think it the official phrase. Basically, I did not do well under general anaesthetic. My temperature, pulse and blood pressure all fell (pulse to 40 and blood pressure to 83 - it was 59 and 118 pre-op)). Not good. I eventually woke to find myself in a cosy, warm air inflated blanket with tubes and wires and oxygen. So the Day Surgery turned into 3 Day Recovery.
I have to say though I was cared for very well. I am impressed and grateful to the hard-working and dedicated health care professionals who looked after me around the clock. So I am home - happy and grateful and a bit wobbly. I also had a visit today today from physio Emily who offered excellent advice regarding my knee, ice, exercises and crutches. My goal is not to be on 2 crutches when the Countess of Wessex arrives on Wednesday and to run on Boxing Day.

pre-op, op, post-op.

2011-10-26T16:27:00.004-05:00

This week I am going into hospital for a knee operation. I have a torn medial meniscus (cartilage) sustained playing football in May with the church boys. I will have a general anaesthetic and an arthroscope (key hole surgery). In one side of the knee with the light and camera, the other side with the shears to cut the torn bit off in the hope that new cartilage will grow to replace the damaged piece. It will all be done in a day. I will be out action for a few days recovering and on crutches for about a week followed by 12 weeks of physiotherapy. I hope to be at church on Sunday, sitting at the back with my leg up watching and listening,learning to be patient...

£39k !

2011-10-24T02:58:00.004-05:00

I woke very thankful. Thankful to God for an offering of £39,000; thankful for a memorable Sunday; thankful for the many acts of sacrifice and faith that £39k represents; thankful for the good-hearted team that make Sundays happen; thankful the for new building and all that is happening there; thankful for such generosity; thankful for a great church full of wonderful individuals.
If you would still like to give, it is not too late. You can bring your gift to the Beacon Centre anytime or next Sunday. There will also be another opportunity to give at the next Gift Day in April 2012 - £228k to go!
- Further gits have since come in which now takes the offering to £43k!

Gift Day Sunday 20th Oct

2011-10-19T12:36:00.004-05:00

This Sunday is The Beacon Church Gift Day. We are raising money for the new building. Actually, we are raising money for more than a building - we are raising money for the mission we are on together. The new Beacon building is part of that mission. The building houses some of the midweek ministries that serve the church and the community. By giving to the building we sew into mission. People's lives are transformed in the building - whether it is a hope-filled conversation with an older person at Golden Years: a single mum encouraged at Smarties: a young person who makes a new friend at Youth, an enquirer discovering Jesus at Alpha or someone who finds help and support from a staff member - all this and more takes place in the Beacon Centre. Be part of it - pray about Sundays Gift Day.
Also on Sunday Steve & Mayan Cadd from Sword Productionshttp://swordproductions.org/site/index.php (Philippines) will be with us for the day. In the evening, at The Beacon, they will share something of their remarkable life and ministry.
Another exciting Sunday beckons...

Looking for God?

2011-10-15T06:47:00.002-05:00

Joshua (my intern) and I met with Dave on Friday. Dave from Looking for God.. He had travelled all the way from Neath, South Wales, to see us.
http://www.lookingforgod.com/
Looking for God is a web site which does what it says on the tin - helps people find God. You can find out stuff about God and Jesus; you can be put in touch with someone to chat to if you like, or a church, you can even ask a question online.
So if you are not sure about God or not sure where to turn or who to ask (or if you want to see Dave on camera) click on the link and have a look - it might help you find more of God.

Money, money, money... (part 2)

2011-10-13T05:04:00.006-05:00

The feedback from Sundays message on Money has been very interesting as folks have gone away and looked at their finances with fresh eyes and fresh faith. For most of us we can get lazy about our money and our bank account. But reviewing our finances is an important and healthy discipline.
Here are a few more tips:
- Avoid debt if you can, especeially credit card debt.
If you are in trouble with debt then get help: CAP www.capuk.org
(Christians Aginst Poverty) or Frontline http://www.frontlinedebtadvice.org.uk/ both are good, trustworthy, descreet services to help.There is no shame is facing up to debt problems and asking for help.
Shop around for the best deals - whether that is savings interest rates, phone contracts or energy providers. Money Saving Expect is a useful website for up to date offers.
Review your giving. Giving regularly is a good, biblical discipline - to the local church, to mission, to a charity, or to an individual

Prayer and Fasting

2011-10-12T14:56:00.003-05:00

Have just back from 2 days away at Prayer and Fasting in Peterborough. 9 of us went this time from The Beacon including Bev which was a real treat. Hearing the update on Newfrontiers transition was always going to be a big draw this time around and it was helpful hearing from Dave Stroud and each of the newly appointed apostles as to how they see things shaping up. Interesting to hear of the growth of the various Together weekends and Bible Weeks. Great too to hear of how God is blessing other denominations and streams: the Anglican church through the success of Alpha: 10,000 now attending Hillsongs Church in London: Pastor Adi from Nigeria has planted 300 churches in the UK: 30,000 attending New Wine...blessing after blessing.
Amazing to hear testimony from a girl - Hannah, who was miraculously healed at Newday - she was deaf in one ear from birth, was prayed for and ...pop!
The times of worship were fabulous, especially Wednesday morning - lead by Simon Brading.
Home now. Exhausted, exhilerated, challenged.

Money, money, money (part 1)

2011-10-10T14:04:00.004-05:00

What an interesting week in terms of the economy worldwide and in the UK: Eurozone crisis, banks downgraded, Quantatative Easing by £75bn, Goldman Sachs losses, Tesco losses, a recession lasting years to come ...
Does The Bible have anything to say about money? Thankfully, lots. 15% of Jesus' teaching is about money - more in fact than prayer or heaven. The Bible is full of good financial sense and faith-filled giving.
Does anybody else have anything thing helpful to say about the economy in times of recession? Thankfully, yes - I read over the w\e John Pipers's sermon: What is the Recession for? http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/sermons/what-is-the-recession-for
Very interesting.
One of the great money themes of The Bible is the sharing of resources:" "No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had" Acts 4:32. What resources, time, money, talent could you share with those around you?

Newfrontiers transition.

2011-10-07T02:53:00.002-05:00

Bev and I had a day with Dave & Liz Holden this week. Dave leads New Community Church Sidcup and is one of the key leaders in Newfrontiers - the family of churches to which The Beacon is part. As a church, they are also about to embark on a major building programme.
Newfrontiers is going through something of a transition presently with Terry Virgo, the father and founder, stepping back. Terry has handed ownership and leadership over to a number of apostles in the UK and throughout the world. Dave Holden is one of those. An apostle is someone who takes responsibility for a large number of churches.
Dave has taken an active interest in the Newfrontiers churches in the Home Counties, the leaders and all we are doing. He made some very helpful suggestions, extended warm invitations and helped me a lot in thinking through the implications of Newfrontiers transition. I am looking forward to Prayer & Fasting next week for the further updates.

Messing about on the river.

2011-10-03T13:16:00.004-05:00

After 25 years of marriage, Bev and I decided we needed more time together...hanging out together and going to places together that we both like. So today, being our day off, we went to Henley-on-Thames and took a pic nic and a friend's boat out for a trip down river. Henley is famous for the Henley Royal Regatta held each year in June.
We like boats and rivers. It was glorious - warm sunshine and golden autumn colours.
We saw lots of birds including great crested-grebe, cormorant and red kite as well as the more common swans, mallards, coots and pigeons.
There are always jobs to be done around the house (and money things to sort out) but it is good to stop and just go somewhere nice - like Henley.

Golden October

2011-10-01T12:04:00.003-05:00

What a start to the month - record-breaking warm sunshine to enjoy. Shorts and T-shirts in October - wonderful. I am looking forward to October in the church calendar too with 3 milestone events: 24 next w\e (or rather 12 this time round) - The Beacon Centre will be open 12 noon to 12 midnight on Sat. 8th October for folk to come and draw aside anytime and pray. There will be leaders present at each session if you want to pray with others or you think, reflect, pray, read on your own quietly if you prefer.
Sun. Oct. 16th sees the visit of Andrew Wilson the author, theologian, apologist to The Beacon. He is fantastic. So come and enjoy and bring your (clever) friends too.
Then to finish off the month we have the Gift Day on Sun. 23rd Oct. We have raised an amazing £1.3m for the new Beacon Centre which leaves us £268,000 to raise to pay it all off over the next few Gift Days. So enjoy the sunshine and enjoy October at The Beacon too.

Life is fragile, handle with prayer.

2011-09-30T06:41:00.004-05:00

It started with a loud bang! A road traffic accident out side our house at 7.45am. No one seriously hurt but 4 shaken passengers, one with injured face and back. I took out the cups of tea, chairs and blanket. Then it was onto the M3 then M25 for the journey to visit my brother. Stand still. An accident had closed the motorway. Good job I had taken an audio book to listen to: Rick Warren The Purpose Driven life. Brilliant for being stationery on a motorway and reminded of what really matters - "Why Am I Here? What is The Purpose of Life? What Am I living For?".
Finally, eventually, on to see my brother injured in a assault - battered, bruised, in plaster but still smiling (crookedly). It happened quickly, then...unconscious.
Anything can happen ... any day. As I thought about the happenings of the day Rick Warren's words rang in my ear: "Live each day as if it were your last".

Joining the Zani fan club

2011-09-27T09:03:00.002-05:00

I was so impressed on Sunday by the Zani's. Rachel & Attilio Zani are a couple in the church who arranged a birthday for their twin girls, a Dedication Service (as opposed to a Christening - a Dedication is where the children are dedicated to God in the hope that they will make their own choice for Him at a later date) They invited 70 people for lunch at The Beacon Centre. Quite a feat.
The feedback from the guests has been very interesting including:

- "How people who did not even know us helped with our children
- Not what we expected of coming to a church at all!
- Wow you have a professional band playing (are those guys Christians too?)
- Everyone really cares a lot!
- I can see why you come here..."

2011-09-22T08:20:00.004-05:00

Last night I suddenly found myself surrounded: surrounded by VIPs. I was at the Collingwood Fashion Show and by virtue of being "Beverley's husband" (The Director of the show) was invited to sit on the front row with Beverley and the Countess of Wessex. I also found myself talking to Virginia Bottomley, the Mayor of Surrey Heath, the CEO of Surrey Heath, the Chairman of Surrey County Council and Gavin - bodyguard to the Countess; amongst others.
I was very impressed with HRH Sophie the Countess of Wessex. She looked lovely and was warm, friendly and engaging. At the interval she preferred not to mix with the other dignitaries but to be introduced to some of the students from the College backstage. I got the impression that she tires of pomp and ceremony preferring instead to mix with ordinary folk. Another good reason to have her come to the official opening of The Beacon.

Another new experience

2011-09-19T06:03:00.002-05:00

I like trying new things. I like eating new foods. I like going to new places. I like meeting new people. On Sunday I had another new experience - an MRI scan on my knee. An MRI is a bit like a detailed x-ray of soft tissue, only it takes longer - 20 minutes in fact of lieing motionless, listening to Adele through headphones (the machine makes quite a noise). You have probably seen on TV the person slides into the tube-like contraption. In my case just my head was sticking out. I imagined I was being launched into Thunderbird 2 or into a time-capsule to be released into another century where I recognised nothing and no-one or maybe my body would emerge from the scientific tube and exposure to radiation with super-human powers? What if the Lord returned whilst I was having an MRI and I missed it?!
20 minutes is quite a long time for me to lie still. I can imagine lots of things in that time!

More Together Than Apart...

2011-09-15T13:00:00.004-05:00

Being part of the Newfrontiers family of churches is great. Today I met with the other leaders of Newfrontiers churches in the Home Counties. We are able to do some great things together including Newday (for Teenagers), Carroty Wood (for children); the visit of Martin Charlesworth Thurs. 28th Sept for Social Action, a TAD (Trauma, Attachment & Dissociation) Training Day Sat.1st Oct; the visit of Andrew Wilson (theologian, apologist, author)Sun.16th Oct; a Pastoral Training Course for those in pastoral teams in churches and so much more...
Whilst Newfrontiers UK is going through something of a transition with Terry Virgo increasingly stepping back and with the appointment of apostles for the UK (to oversee spheres of churches), it is still great to meet with others from the Home Counties region to enjoy fellowship, pray, figure out how to help churches and plot the way ahead together.

Fashion Show Fever

2011-09-13T11:09:00.004-05:00

It is the week before the show. Rehearsals are in full flight, nerves are shredding; choreographers are yelling, the music system is straining, the runway is wobbling, the tickets are selling, the temperature is rising, the teachers are sweating, the shops are delivering, Beverley is praying - it has to be the Collingwood Fashion & Dance Show next week. Rehearsals are every day this week and all w\e so I don't expect to see much of Bev (or Phoebe) until after the show. Luki (Adam's fiance)is also choreographing scenes and helping with rehearsals.
Actually it is great fun watching students and teachers alike, walk, dance, pose, have fun and work together. A fashion show run way is a good leveler and good confidence booster! Even HRH Sophie Countess of Wessex is coming to open the show on Wednesday.

Abortion in the news...

2011-09-07T10:16:00.008-05:00

I have been trying to follow the abortion debate this week. I listened to Nadine Dories on BBC Radio 4 on Monday and have read some of the newspaper articles http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/sep/07/nadine-dorries-abortion-amendment-defeated

I generally support Nadine. I think she is courageous. I think she is correct is wanting to highlight the fact that most of the crisis pregnancy counselling in the UK is provided by the very clinics that offer abortions - so what is the likely outcome?
I have also been very impressed by the work of Achor in Woking www.achor.org and Care Confidential in Basingstoke www.careconfidential.com who offer Crisis Pregnancy advice and remain caring towards the women whatever the choice.
Did you know that 18,000 babies have been aborted since 2002 on the grounds of being "disabled" - some having a club foot or cleft palate? 1,189 of those were aborted after 24 weeks - according to Department of Health figures. You might want to read that again.

Another 6 months ...

2011-09-05T11:04:00.002-05:00

I finally went to the hospital to see the surgeon today after waiting 16 weeks since the football injury. He confirmed what we already knew - I need an operation on my knee. I am on the waiting list for another 3 months then it will take a further 3 months to fully recover - another 6 months without competitive sport. Ouch!
My son is also on crutches (and in plaster) after a football injury last week.
My daughter and I went swimming again this morning... so more swimming it is with more light bike work. Not quite chasing a ball but I am enjoying the swimming very much and it is amazing now what they can do with key-hole surgery.

Revolutionary teenagers

2011-09-02T10:37:00.002-05:00

I love teenagers. I especially love radical, God-loving-fly-in-the-face-of-culture teenagers. Today I have been working with some. Tom and Steph, both 18, get married on Saturday. I have been rehearsing with them. How refreshing that 2 teenagers should want to get married before they have sex.
I have also been with Josh today who, as another 18 year old, wants to take a year out before university to work for the church. Brilliant.
Last night a group of teenagers came to The Beacon to practice instruments, sing and worship God.
Lastly, there is Zach who lives in Malawi but, as a godly 15 year old, wants to get baptised on Sunday at The Beacon before returning to Africa. He loves Jesus and wants to show it.
At the end of a summer when some teenagers have been rioting on the streets of the UK it is great to work with young people who set such high godly standards - revolutionary teenagers.

Marriage - the 2nd half.

2011-08-31T12:05:00.002-05:00

On going away for the w\e with Bev, Nigel & Julie gave us a book to read: The Second Half of Marriage by David & Claudia Arp. "Not another marriage book to read" I carelessly thought. I quickly changed my mind however from page 1 and have found the book to be helpful, encourageing and a great source of communication. Bev and I have diligently read a chapter then asked each other the very frank and challenging questions at the end. If nothing else it makes you honestly assess your relationship and openly discuss things. It has been great for us - very refreshing.
The premise of the book is also helpful in terms of how your marriage changes facing the empty-nest years and according to their research gets better!. We still have a way to go before our nest is empty but the book is very helpful preparation.

More Celebrations ...

2011-08-24T16:07:00.005-05:00

2011 is the year for celebrations in the LS family: Joseph is 21, Tom is 18, I am 50, Adam has got engaged, my brother got married and this weekend Bev and I celebrate our Silver Wedding Anniversary - 25 years! I am taking Beverley away for the w\e to somewhere she has always wanted to go...
In many ways I feel I am still learning about marriage, still re-learning the same lessons of communication, service, selflessness...even after 25 years.
Recently a couple who have been married for 40 years shared about the secret of marital sucess - "tell the other every day you love them and kiss on the lips every day". I am still learning.
My son says I always make marriage sound like it is such hard work. Sometimes it can be. But it is also great fun being married to Bev. She definately brings the fun and bounce and generosity and creativity and colour into my life.
Silver is good but I am going for Gold.

Holidays with Teenagers (part 3)

2011-08-20T07:48:00.002-05:00

We have just come back from a week on Holiday with Teenagers. It was great. We went with Rob & Davina Brown who are back from Malawi for the summer. We had such fun - walking, talking, eating, playing games, canoeing, shopping (!)in the Lakes.
These are a few last thoughts about Holidays with Teenagers after several summers holidaying with other families we have had: (they may apply to any holiday)
Going on holiday with another family can be great - everyone has a friend (hopefully!).
Book early. Start thinking now for next year.
Talk about expectations (outings, food, get-up times, washing up...).
Have grace and patience for those who do things differently.
Plan some activities altogether and leave room to do things separately.
Serve one another.
Try and interact with everyone at some level at some time.
Make memories that will last forever.

A new kind of power.

2011-08-15T21:35:00.002-05:00

It started with a group of total strangers. I was on my own in a surreal environment; an introduction; an explanation, some unfamiliar jargon, a safety briefing, signing some visitor forms, a little apprehension then a lesson from a scary guy at the front; then I took the wheel - I was driving an off-shore Honda power boat in the Solent near Southhampton at 35 knots (50 mph)around a choppy and very unfamiliar race course.
The kind staff of The Beacon had bought me a ride of a lifetime for my birthday.
It was brilliant. One of the best rushes ever. Terrifying, exhilarating, thrilling, satisfying - beats any theme park.
Do you think it counts as worship? "Whatever you do..." Col 3:23.

Holidays with Teenagers (part 2)

2011-08-11T03:59:00.005-05:00

One of the challenges of the holidays with teenage children is to combat the screen or rather work with the screen. TV, i-pads, i-phones, computers and computer games feature so prominently in our children's lives - how can we help our children without them turning into cyber-zombies?
Firstly, take an interest in what they are watching and listening to. And talk about it.
When it comes to films for hire on Film Flex or going to the cinema watch the feature trailer together at home and make an informed decision about the movie. Talk about the plot, the values, the characters. I was very dubious about a film my daughter wanted to watch last night until we viewed the trailer together. It helped.
If you haven't come across the movie Soul Surfer yet, you might want to take a look:
www.soulsurferthemovie.com
As a radical alternative to video games try playing a board game together. You all might enjoy it!
Finally, in terms of music your teenager might like 10,000 Reasons - Matt Redman's new album containing the brilliant anthem "We are here for you".

Holidays with Teenagers (part 1)

2011-08-10T06:20:00.006-05:00

I think I am coming to the end of another era - the end of the L-S Family Holiday. Not so long ago I booked and looked forward to the whole family being on holiday together for 2 weeks in the summer. I would book the holiday in the winter and look forward to it. Not any more. Whilst I still think the Family Holiday is essential whilst the children are young, as they grow up 2 weeks with mum & dad (and no friends) becomes less attractive. My family now have their own plans and I seem to fitting around them - Mobilise, New Wine, New Day, Mission Trip to Spain, Soul Survivor and Carroty Wood are all part of the L-S summer holiday - without me! There are not 2 weeks left in the schedule.
I am of course grateful that my family want to go on Bible Weeks. No complaints at all. Get in the way of God and be with your friends!
So when they are here over the summer I will be with them, talk to them about what they have been doing and make the most of their presence. After all, it will not be long before they are not here at all.

Straight to the heart ...

2011-08-08T12:40:00.005-05:00

I have just finished Straight to the Heart of Revelataion by Phil Moore. This is one of a series by Phil. I found the book easy to read and contained some helpful insights and background - some gems actually. I used the book as part of my daily devotions so read a chapter a day - very easy. Sometimes it is a good discipline to work through a book of The Bible and in reading Revelation it is good to get some help! One of the highlights of this book is the very helpful insights into heaven - good preparation!
If you looking for an easy-read accessible commentary this could be the one for you. Like Tescos you can also pick up 3 for 2 at Newfrontiers Resources or £6.25 each at The Book Depositoryhttp://www.bookdepository.co.uk/Straight-Heart-Revelation-Phil-Moore/9781854249906
www.bookdepository.co.uk

The Afterglow

2011-08-03T16:33:00.002-05:00

I have just finished a good book and I am enjoying the afterglow - that feeling of accomplishment at having read a whole book; that finished feeling combined with the afterglow of the characters, plot and crescendo all coming to a satisfying, if somewhat surprising, climax.
In my case I have finished A Week in December, a novel by Sebastian Faulks. Actually it is more than a novel - more a social and cultural comment about the state of our nation, its morals - or lack thereof. Faulks presents the reader with 7 very different characters living in London and how their lives cleverly become intertwined in the space of a week before Christmas. Clever stuff.
So while it is summer - why not treat yourself to a good book and enjoy the afterglow?

New Day, New Wine New Everything...

2011-07-31T10:13:00.011-05:00

The Bible Week season is definitely upon us. This w\e the New Wine contingent arrived home having had a great time camping in the sunshine. I am jealous of them having sat under the ministry of Heidi Baker - what a woman of God. The Beacon Church enjoyed good fellowship with other churches from Camberley on the site.
On Monday 70 from The Beacon go to New Day. You can keep up to date on the daily news and events on the New Day blog.
Another group left this w\e for Faith Camp then the week after next another group of young people (well some of the same New Day crowd actually), go to Soul Survivor. Finally, at the end of August is Carroty Wood - the regional Newfrontiers Children's Camp. We will send a coach load of children and workers.
Whilst you are planning next summer with the Olympics why not consider a Bible Week too?
Newday
New Wine www.new-wine.org
Soul Survivor www.soulsurvivor.com

Punk Monk

2011-07-27T15:21:00.003-05:00

Now and again it is good to read a spiritual book out of ones' chosen genre. For me, who likes clear biblical reformed theology, church leadership material and Christian autobiography, Punk Monk is an interesting challenge.
Andy Freeman and his co-author Pete Grieg have established Boiler Rooms (houses of prayer in a neo-monastic style)and the 24-7 prayer movement. What is refreshing is Freeman's real commitment to prayer. His search of historic monastic traditions and liturgy left me feeling rather cold whilst his chapter on the ancient art of breathing made me strangely warmed and encouraged.
The book makes much of the Celtic view of "thin places" - special places where there is a thin line between the secular and the sacred. I have to say I found the thinking here woolly, sentimental and unbiblical - if the Holy Spirit dwells within us and Jesus' promise is to be with us always - where is this mysterious divide? I would much rather experience the presence of God wherever I am. I think that is what The Bible says ("abide in me", says Jesus).
Good food for thought though and an encouragement to pray.

bbqs and ice-cream vans

2011-07-24T15:28:00.002-05:00

Today we had the church picnic. It was actually much more than a pic-nic. It was a pic-nic, bbq, ice-cream van, bouncy castle, games, fun day. And it was sunny and warm. What a great time hanging out with the church family, chatting with old friends, getting to know new ones, sharing food and stories.
I particularly enjoyed watching real connections take place like when one army officer found another, or when one Mat & Claire found another Mat & Claire, or when Davina from Malawi can chat with Rachel from Cambodia about the challenges of raising children overseas.
I also enjoyed Benjamin, aged 4, coming up to me and saying: "Fancy a game of football Mark?". And to think I wouldn't play football again until after Christmas.
Great. Special moments. Special memories.

From Camberley to the nations ...

2011-07-22T05:26:00.003-05:00

This week we have some of the international members of the church home for a break: Colin & Rachel Saunders and the family are in the UK for a month back from Cambodia. Colin & Rachel both work in a Christian school in Phnom Pen. On Sunday evening 24th July they will tell something of their story and their work in Cambodia.
The Brown family have also just arrived from Malawi. Rob works as an accountant in Blantyre but Rob & Davina's vision is assisting local churches and projects amongst the poor.
The team from Uganda has this week also arrived home in good spirits after working amongst the poor. That is not all: another team go to Malawi next month to help in rural Africa whilst we also have Lazarus and Maggie away this week working amongst Iranians believers.
Our vision as a church is not just to bless the immediate locality where we live, or just the UK but to bring blessing to the nations of the world.

Fill up your i-pod!

2011-07-19T10:21:00.006-05:00

I am still in the good of the Brighton Conference - the awesome worship times, the powerful sense of God's presence, the good fellowship with friends and the excellent teaching. I have that feeling you get when you have had a good meal - full!
I am pleased to say that we have copies of PJ's outstanding message on Suffering & Sickness both on cd and dvd available from the church office. It is a must.
You can also now download all the messages from the conference free, so take some time to look at what is available and do your soul good over the summer - have a listen to some of this ...

http://newfrontierstogether.org/Group/Group.aspx?ID=143278

PJ at Brighton

2011-07-14T04:32:00.004-05:00

I have heard 1000s of sermons in my life. Last night I heard one of the best sermons I have ever heard: PJ Smythe on Suffering and Sickness. It was brilliant. I can recommend that you get the free download and listen for yourself. The mix of biblical truth, raw expereince, laced with grace and humour made for a compelling evening. As PJ finished by pointing us to our great, sovereign and sometimes mysterious God the worship exploded.
PJ leads God First Church in Johannesburg, South Africa. He is in remission from cancer so has some expereince of sickness and suffering and God.

Brighton & the beach

2011-07-13T03:28:00.003-05:00

I sat on the beach at Brighton this morning thanking God for all the good memories from Brighton conferences over the years - there have been many.
This year will also be memorable, I can see that already - the last Brighton Conference, Terry Virgo handing over more, the transition of Newfrontiers, great times of worship, dynamic speakers and fun together as The Beacon Church group. We invaded Zizzis last night and had such fun eating and talking together. More precious memories.
Several from Camberley have arrived today for the day and more arrive on Thursday for the last night of the last Brighton Conference.
The making of the various TV programmes is challenging, but fun too.
If you would like to keep in touch with what is happening at the conference please see: http://adrianwarnock.com/

Super Sundays with Hitch & Pike

2011-07-10T11:28:00.003-05:00

This morning I was the guest speaker at Harvest Church Alton. Harvest Church is a well-established, mature church which meets in a fabulous renovated old maltings building in the centre of town - low beams, sloping floor, welcoming glass front. The church itself has lots of people and lots of life. In fact I think they need another Sunday meeting as the building was full.
I am also looking forward to Sunday evening when we have Together for the Nations. This events draws a large crowd from the other Newfrontiers churches in the area. Several delegates and speakers from around the world come to the UK for the Together on a Mission Conference in Brighton next week. As everyone can not attend the conference I wanted to bring a bit of the conference to the people.
It is always a high octane event with professional musicians Hitch & Pike leading the worship. It's going to be great.

Once more unto the beach dear friends...

2011-07-06T08:11:00.005-05:00

I am looking forward to next week. I am going to the beach again. Next week is the Brighton Conference entitled Together on a Mission. The last Brighton Conference in fact as Newfrontiers goes through transition and Terry Virgo steps back from fathering the family of churches that is Newfrontiers.
5,000 leaders from 50 nations will gather on the Brighton sea front for a few days of worship, great teaching, catching up and making new friends. It is always a highlight in the calendar.
This year I am making a series of TV programmes for various Christian networks including God TV and UCB TV. I will also be conducting interveiws with BBC radio, Christianaity magazine amongst others...
If you can get the chance it is really worth a visit, especailly Thursday evening which is free to attend and will be very exciting.

Is it just me...?

2011-07-05T14:26:00.002-05:00

I know, as Christians, we are supposed to "reign in life" but do you sometimes feel it is raining on your life instead? Or is it just me?
As you know, I am coming to terms with my injured knee and not being able to do sport for the rest of the year. I am also struggling to see because I have lost my reading glasses. I have got to the sad stage where I am looking in the same draw 6 times over - just in case. Then there is the unexpected bill this week, a bit of trouble with the car and shock horror an argument with Bev - yes it happens to us too.
I knew all this was beginning to get to me so I got up early to read and pray. I settled into psalm 138 and took comfort in these words: "though I walk in the midst of trouble you preserve my life".As I meditated in these words I heard a dripping noise. I looked up and discovered a water leak in the roof. The header tank in the loft leaking onto the ceiling. Is it just me...?!

L.A.A.A.B.

2011-06-30T16:10:00.004-05:00

I have invented a new malaise. For those who are familiar with my blog I have invented illnesses, or rather named them, before - see P.U.G. - Parental University Grief. This time the malaise is called L.A.A.A.B - Loss of Athletic Ability and Associated Benefits. This is really about my knee. I went again to see Helen my physio who delivered the bad news:"you really need an orthopaedic surgeon" - pretty much what the doctor said. Helen went a step further however is saying that I would enter a period of grief - grieving the loss of not being able to do sport, grieving the loss of those friendship groups and the loss of myself as a person because doing sport is so much of who I am... I was very humbled by Helen's insight.
So I am coming to terms with my knee injury which now needs surgery and L.A.A.A.B.
I am grateful too for another friend, Sarah Parish, who said to me: "you will have to go though this. But God will speak to you and use you". I am sure He will.

Sarah's teddy bear

2011-06-29T05:39:00.003-05:00

I have to admit it - I am still in the good of the church w\e away. I find myself re-living precious conversations with folk, enjoying again the extensive food menu in the restaurant, chatting with the staff about what kind of church we are and why we would want to be together for a whole w\e. And thinking about the beach....!
I also find myself thinking about Sarah's teddy bear - on Sunday morning Sarah Cooper brought a wonderful prophetic picture of those who felt like a teddy bear that had the stuffing taken out of them. She then described how God was lovingly putting fresh stuffing and shape back into the teddy. Wonderful.
Sarah's word was one of many: Helen, Jane and Julie also contributed magnificently to Sunday morning. Sarah''s word was one of many highlights of the w\e.
As for the future and should we have Beacon at the Beach again? I am still thinking about it although the benefits have been amazing.
If you were there let me know your thoughts...

Back from Beacon at the Beach

2011-06-26T13:35:00.003-05:00

We are back and we had a fantastic time. Back from the church w\e away. The chalets were very comfortable, the food was excellent, the main venue very good, nice outdoor heated pool, the meetings powerful and lots of unhurried time together.
Time is the currency of relationship and so a w\e away together pays huge dividend relationally.
Beacon's Got talent was hilarious - songs, jokes, dancing, Ben Phelp's rendition of baa-baa black sheep and a brilliant rap from Phoebe made for a truly memorable evening. The baptisms on the beach were another highlight and the weather on Sunday afternoon .... brilliant. The whole w\e exceeded my expectations.

Church w\e away - its here!

2011-06-23T14:49:00.005-05:00

After being in the diary for a whole year - the church w\e away has finally arrived. We are off. 200 of us are going to Beacon at the Beach this w\e. If you are not coming for the w\e you can attend as a day visitor - just give Jemily a ring and let her know (07793559811). You can even come just for the baptisms on Saturday afternoon if you like. It looks like the weather will be good too. My family are all going except Joseph who is staying behind.
So no house-work, no thinking about "what is for dinner tonight?", no children glued to their screens, just lots of fun, time with the church family and an encounter with God - and it is not too late to come: Richardsons Holiday Park, South Downs, Bracklesham Bay, PO20 8JE

Rules of Engagement

2011-06-21T09:35:00.002-05:00

I am pleased Adam & Luki have got engaged. I am also pleased with the manner in which they got engaged.
I have often spoken to my children about courtship, boyfriends\girlfriends, sex and marriage. It is important, as parents, that we talk openly with our children so they feel able to speak with us about any of these subjects.
We have also spoken about engagement and how to go about it:
1. Get the right girl\boy. Choosing your mate is the biggest decision of your life, so choose wisely and take your time.
2. Involve others in the decision. Seek counsel from those who know you and your potential mate. What do they think?
3. When you have decided, honour the family - ask the father of your would-be-bride.
4. Plan the proposal and make it memorable. Adam certainly did. They will always remeber this moment so make it special.
5. Once you are engaged and have decided to wed don't leave it too long and once again honour the respective families by including them in the decisions and planning.
6. Pray! Pray for a husband\wife. Pray about this decision and the other subsequent ones. He knows what is best for you.

More Celebrations...!

2011-06-17T12:30:00.002-05:00

This year is a year of celebration. A Year of Jubilee. I celebrate a special birthday, Tom is 18, Joseph is 21, Bev and I celebrate 25 years of marriage, the new Beacon Centre opens, my brother got married to Keli, my neice Kathleen gets married, and this week Adam and Luki got engaged! What a fabulous year.
We are delighted for Adam & Luki and this evening the 6 of us (both sets of parents) meet for the first Wedding Planning evening. Another first.
I am used to helping couples plan their wedding, but not my own family.
Getting married is a great idea - to commit to one another in lasting, exclusive loving, heterosexual relationship; to enjoy one another and to enjoy sex where it should be - as God intended; to learn to live together as man and wife; to raise a family together in a stable home and to share your home with others.
It's still great - even after 25 years!

Royal Ascot

2011-06-15T06:45:00.005-05:00

I saw the queen yesterday, up close - lots of the royal family in fact. I very much enjoyed the royal procession at Ascot. Beverley and I have been saying for years that we should go as Ascot is only 15 minutes away from our house. Some friends invited us along with their group so we dressed up, packed the pic nic and hopped on a 10 minute train (as opposed to £17 to park there!). It was great fun. The weather was good, the food was good, the horse racing went passed very quickly(!) and the band were great - hadn't expected that. And the hats ...! We also planned to leave a little early so as not to get caught in the champagne-fuelled melee at the end.
What a fun day.

medial menicus and other matters...

2011-06-13T13:34:00.002-05:00

Bad news today. I went to the doctor about my painful knee - a football injury from 4 weeks ago. It was as I feared a medial meniscus tear (cartilage). The doctor said 6 weeks physio and if no better they would have to get in there. I have had 2 arthroscopies on my left knee. I do not relish the thought of one on my right knee. I remember how peculiar I felt after the general anesthetic and how long recovery was.
So for the time being no football, no tennis, no squash, no golf, no washing up - actually there probably will be washing up. Not good. So more swimming and more gym work it is. The knee is amazing.

Strategy, swimming and soup.

2011-06-09T16:46:00.004-05:00

I am away for a few days with the elders of the church on our annual retreat. This gives us uninterupted time to talk, plan, work hard and think about the future. I am enjoying the times discussing stratagey, swimming in the pool and the good food - nice soup today.
We get through such a lot during these times and are able to take time plotting the way ahead. We have also had several guests join us to help us think through various issues - Tim & Jem for Super Sundays and Keith & Jacqui for Community Mission. I thank God for such a great team around me who make so much happen - who serve God faithfully, giving of their time and talents generously to bless others. I am very aware that whilst I have the privelege of leading the church I could not do it alone. What a Team!

David Stroud this Sunday

2011-06-07T09:06:00.005-05:00

This Sunday we have a real treat - David Stroud is our guest speaker. David leads CCL - Christ Church London a growing Newfrontiers church in the centre of town. http://christchurchlondon.org/David also leads Newfrontiers UK. That means that he and the rest of his team look after the 250 Newfrontiers churches in the UK. The Beacon Church Camberley is part of the Newfrontiers family.
David is married to Philippa who works closely with IDS (Ian Duncan-Smith) at the Dept of Work & Pensions. She is also very involved with Centre for Social Justice. http://www.centreforsocialjustice.org.uk/
They have 3 delightful teenage children.
I think David is inspirational. His grasp of the prophetic purposes of God married to present cultural trends is quite unique. He is a great communicator - definitely worth listening to.

Agony & Ecstasy (part 4)

2011-06-04T06:01:00.003-05:00

The agony Jesus Christ suffered through was unbelievable. Excruciating even - that is where we get the word from - excruciating - the torture of the cross.
He was tortured and crucified. A terrible death. Agony. Slow, deliberate, agony. Why was He killed? For upsetting the Pharisees? For claiming to be God? For being in the wrong place at the wrong time or for being in the right place at the right time? All of those reasons, but mostly He died for our sin. Deliberately.
Jesus Christ died in agony that you and I may know ecstasy. The Agony and the Ecstasy - the ecstasy of sin forgiven, dealt with. The wrath of God avoided. Hell escaped. Heaven open.
The ecstasy of knowing and experiencing the grace of God daily. His love, His forgiveness, His peace, His joy, His assurance. The agony and the ecstasy.
Life takes on a different perspective.

Agony & Ecstasy (part 3)

2011-06-02T09:30:00.004-05:00

I am reading the Psalms at the moment. They are great. There is a psalm for every emotion, every trial, every life experience - good or bad. The Psalms are refreshing in their raw emotion. I am struck reading them again how open David, the writer of some of the psalms, is about his agony and his ecstasy. In Psalm 55, for instance, he speaks of his "trouble ...anguish...fear...overwhelmed...distress" .
Most of us are familiar with v6 :"Oh, for the wings of a dove that I might fly away". (from trouble). David knows what agony, anguish, trouble and distress are like. Up close.
After making his feelings known and in so doing providing the reader with comfort and reassurance that you are not the only one who feels like running away, he then provides the hope: "Cast all your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you...as for me, I trust in you". Ps 55:22
It's all a question of perspective.

Agony & Ecstasy (part 2)

2011-06-01T14:35:00.003-05:00

I love swimming. I love doing front crawl up and down an empty lane in a nice pool. I can worship God swimming. I love the rhythm, the feel of the water rushing past my body, washing my face. I love the feel of all of my body working hard. Yesterday I swam front crawl for the first time in 18 months. My frozen shoulder has taken nearly 2 years to get better. I have not been able to swim since August 2009. The surgeon said to me in October 2010 that I would be OK by the summer of 2011. He was right. It is great to swim again. Ecstasy.
Unfortunately swimming is about all the exercise I will get for sometime. I will not be able to play football or squash for several weeks. I have a lateral ligament knee injury (from playing football). Agony to exercise on. So, mixed emotions.
Will I recover? I think so. It is all a matter of time and perspective...

Agony & Ecstasy (part 1)

2011-05-30T15:53:00.006-05:00

What a shame. Double shame: today I watched my 3 sons play for The Beacon Church football team and go out in the quarter finals of a Camberley football tournament. They lost on penalties. Penalties! How often have we seen the destiny of a football team, or nation, shaped by one skied penalty? The team played well and acquitted themselves extremely well as gentlemen. Adam LS also helped to organise the event.
Then to come home and hear that Reading had lost in the Championship play-off Final to Swansea - double blow. The day started so brightly with such promise. Triple blow if you include Man Utd being so humbled by Barcelona on Saturday.
Will I recover? I think I will. It all comes down to perspective...

Bracklesham Bay

2011-05-29T07:30:00.002-05:00

This is Bracklesham Bay where we are going to have the church w\e away - Beacon at the Beach. I think that is me by the black car!
I heard this week that the open air heated swimming pool will probably be open by then. So not only do you get all meals provided but you also get to wear a skirt like the ones in the photo...

Fancy the beach?

2011-05-25T11:34:00.003-05:00

Summer is here. The sun is shining. The sky is blue. There is a gentle southwesterly breeze - it can only mean one thing - time for a trip to the sea side. Better still a whole weekend by the sea.
Beacon at the Beach is such an opportunity. This is the church week end away 2011. It will be great fun staying at a holiday village near Chichester exclusively ours for the week-end (it is used by CCK and HTB regularly). There will be lots of time for friendship, things for the children to do, 2 meetings (with the latest news from the elders' retreat), baptisms, Beacons Got Talent entertainment night, all meals provided (so mums can have a rest) and the beach!
All for the subsidised cost of £110 per adult, just £10 for children under 18. Bargain. Book in on the web site or at the church office. Come to the beach.

Open Day success

2011-05-24T04:55:00.002-05:00

The sun was shining. It was warm. The bbq was going. Gallons of tea and coffee were served. 400 cup cakes were shared, the press took photographs, a giant FIFA screen was up and lots of people came. The Beacon Centre Open Day was a great success. 100s of neighbours and friends came to have a look round, to have their face painted or just sit and chat and have a cup of tea. Many enquired about hiring the facility too - we have had to say no to all non church bookings for the time being until we have a policy in place. Many also completed the questionnaire about what they would like to see in the facility - so lots to think about and many new challenges (including buying more vacuum cleaners!).

The building in full swing.

2011-05-20T05:52:00.003-05:00

We had a great day yesterday here at the new Beacon Centre. It was full with all kinds of activities, morning, noon and night. It was great. In the morning we had the Smarties re-launch (mother and toddlers)with 45 children plus mums and dads; in the evening we had band practice at the same time as Small Group Leaders; we had folk popping in throughout the day off the street, deliveries, tradesmen, all kinds of conversations.
Being in the building and seeing it used to bless the church and the community is just great.
Then on Saturday 21st May 10.00am-2.00pm is the Open Day. There will be face-painting, bouncy castle, free hot dogs, tea, coffee and lots of chat.

Christianity Magazine

2011-05-17T11:19:00.004-05:00

I am a consulting editor of a magazine. Christianity Magazine. I think it is quite good. The magazine has a new editor called Ruth. She is great. In case you are not familiar with the magazine you can visit the web site and see for yourself:
http://www.christianitymagazine.co.uk/
I particularly liked how well Maggie dealt with the issue of pornography in this edition. I was also amazed to see how many Christian summer festivals, Bible Weeks and Conferences there are in the UK. Beverley and I are going to one in Brighton - Together on a Mission.
http://www.newfrontierstogether.org/Group/Group.aspx?ID=143278
This edition of the magazine also sees Rob Bell giving his side of the story regarding his new book Love Wins which has caused something of a stir. Well worth a read.
End of advert!

Humbled by golf

2011-05-14T11:08:00.003-05:00

It was a beautiful course at the wonderfully named Aspey Guise. A mild 17 degrees, slight wind and good company. Unfortunately for me the good company were also very good golfers.
The occasion was my friend's birthday party golf day. He is good at golf. So are his friends - except one. After a few holes of watching my partner drive, chip and put with laser guided accuracy (He is on the committee at Aspey) whilst I huffed and puffed and meandered along, he turned to me and said:
"So, you don't play golf very often do you?". A verbal thump to the solar plexus and further injury to an already wounded ego.
In truth the casual golfer like me can not compete with the cultured club golfer who plays 3 times a week off a handicap of 9. I could only watch in awe as his ball was drawn to the pin like a magnet, whilst mine preferred the scenic detour of undergrowth, woodland and pond. His ball made noises like "thwack". Mine noises like "plop"! Sigh.
They seemed to find it amusing and somewhat mystifying playing with a pastor though.

Enjoying the new building...

2011-05-11T07:28:00.002-05:00

Lots of firsts this week - first time in my new office, first time sitting on my new chair, first time trying to find my Current folder (not sure if it is in a box or in a cupboard!), first time meeting as staff in the main office, first time using meeting rooms for meetings, first time pressing lots of buttons and using euipment, first time going to the loo in nice new, clean toilets! All a joy.
It has also been great to have lots of visitors and even having staff lunch delivered - what a treat. It is also fun having some of the tradesmen still around. There is lots of life and joy about the place. Various folk in need have also come in for help, a listening ear and a cup of tea. I do find it interesting that we have a team of Street Angels who go out on the streets and God seems to be bringing in the street to us too. As it should be.

We're in!

2011-05-06T12:54:00.002-05:00

Today is the day. It has finally come. After years of meetings and 52 weeks of builders we took possession of the new Beacon Centre keys today!. An historic day indeed.
In actual fact everything is not quite finished. There is some snagging and a few details to finish: the lift has not been commissioned, an outside light does not work and some fobs fobs are not available...but generally the place looks great. Fantastic actually. Even the planting and turfing is done at the front. If you are near by come and have a look. I am sure you will like it.
So this weekend we begin by having the church to look round as part of 24 - 24 Hours of Prayer. 12 noon Saturday to 12 noon Sunday. . You don't have to come for the whole time of course. Come and go when you please and at a time that suits you. The Prayer Schedule is on the web site. What better way of christening the new building than by praying through it and for everything that will happen in it?
What a day!

To throw or not to throw - that is the question!

2011-05-05T09:33:00.003-05:00

We are moving. And because we are moving we are packing up. We are moving from the Roman Catholic Church where we have been for nearly 2 years into the new Beacon Centre. That means lots of boxes, files and papers. Everywhere. I quite like moving because it means clearing out. Streamlining.
During the course of this process I have had to make some difficult sentimental decisions: to throw or not to throw - that is the question. Do I keep that document, photo, sermon (!) just in case or chuck it? Some of the items I have found are reminders of God's blessing upon us as a church - people, meetings, letters. Others are reminders of a life changed and healed with a touch from the King of Kings. There are sobering reminders too from old church membership lists of marriages broken and families shattered.
All in all a healthy exercise to thank God and learn from the past and move on with gratitude and hope..

Sarah Young - my new heroine.

2011-05-01T13:28:00.003-05:00

Now and again you discover an author who God uses to change your life. Rarely does this happen. It has hapened to me recently. Whilst in Texas a new friend gave me a copy of Sarah Young's - 40 Days with Jesus. It is one of the best Daily Devotionals I have ever read. What makes this devotional different and refreshing is that it is written in the first person i.e. what Jesus might be saying to you. I was convicted Day One.
Sarah Young's ability to encouarge the reader to adopt a lifestyle of enjoying God's Presence and living a life of Thankfulness is like a breath of fresh air in an already busy world. The writing reminds me of that other classic "Practising the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence. He would encourage the reader to practice the presence of God whilst washing the pots or cleaning the floor.
Sarah has also written 365 Days with Jesus which I also hope to get.
So if you can - watch out for Sarah Young.

Watching paint dry ...

2011-04-27T07:11:00.002-05:00

Watching paint dry ... well, not quite but nearly. I have actually been watching tar mac dry not paint. It may not sound exciting but it is. That is because the tar mac in question is that being laid at the new Beacon Centre which means it is nearly finished. The car park is looking good.
After 7 years of meetings, planning, architects, money, design etc we are nearly there. In fact next week we get the keys. I can hardly believe it after all this time, 52 weeks of building, years of planning and generous giving we are nearly there.
Next week we have to pack up St Tars, where we are currently based - in the RC Church and take everything to the new Beacon Centre. Even the new sign with the new logo looks good. So does the bike rack! I am sure I will use that. So come along and see the new place soon or have a look on the web site at the building photos tab. It looks great.
As a church we will all have the opportunity to walk round the finished article on Saturday 7th May at 12 noon when we start 24 - 24 hours of prayer for the church, the community and all that will take place in the new Beacon Centre.

Happy Easter?

2011-04-22T16:31:00.003-05:00

It is always interesting hearing people's views about Easter or rather the message of Easter.
On Wednesday after football I asked one of my non-church going friends about the death and resurrection of Christ. He laughed and said it was "all nonsense". By contrast I was encouraged to read what President Barak Obama had to say about the significance of Good Friday a the White House Prayer Breakfast:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1378605/President-Obama-candidly-talks-faith-Jesus-Christ-Easter-prayer-breakfast.html
A clear presentation of the gospel narrative. And some claim he is a covert muslim...?!
This week has also seen an interesting series presented in The Times about the state of Christianity in Britain. Each day there has been a special pull-out section about an area of Christianity in Britain. Today was humbling and shocking with statistics from around the world regarding the continued and widespread persecution of Christians.
Add this to Anne Widecombe's interesting Sunday night BBC series "Does Christianity have a Future?", which you can still get on i-player - and you have lots of material to ponder.
In this we have hope: Christ died. Christ is Risen. And Christ will come again.
Find out for yourself.

Sporting Cathedrals in Dallas

2011-04-18T11:08:00.003-05:00

For our last few days in Dallas I decided we should visit some of the large well-known places of worship in Dallas. This was partly due to a new family member telling me "we do sports, family and God" (pronounced Gaad). Interesting that she should say it in that order.
Texans are very passionate about their sports teams. So we visited the home of the base ball team - the Texas Rangers, the new futuristic Dallas Cowboys stadium, took in an NBA play-offs game at the Dallas Mavericks and went to Prestonwood - a church of 26,000. All were very impressive. No one does a show quite like the Texans in a sports stadium or in a church. The similarities were striking - large auditorium, high tech visuals, loud music, cheer leaders, passionate crowd, large shop and very well organised (at Prestonwood first-time visitors are indentified and park at the very front of the parking lot).
Only one had a powerful quiet presence.

Open mouthed at the Rodeo

2011-04-16T09:28:00.003-05:00

After one party after another for the wedding we have left our new Texan family to go and do some L-S family things before the long journey home. First we went tubing down the Guadeloupe River which is as fun as it sounds - 2 1\2 hours of drifting down a mostly gentle river with the frequent friends of turtles, birds and snakes!
A must see in this part of the world is the Rodeo, so off we went to the Fort Worth Stockyard. More cowboys, long horns and amazing horsemanship.
I think the pro-bull riders are mad. Totally mad. The top riders earn good money ($250k per national championship) but it really is high risk stuff. I was open-mouthed. Amazingly, no-one was seriously injured, although one rider was slammed by a bull. Ouch.
Great, special family memories.

Wedding celebrations in Texas

2011-04-12T20:37:00.003-05:00

The wedding celebrations were great fun. My brother has married a Texas gal - Kelli and now suddenly I have new Texan family. The reception was at Kelli's brothers ranch complete with cowboys, pick ups, hay bales, country music and a Texan size bbq. Even the bride wore cowgirl boots. Unique and amazing. My new family are so warm and hospitable. They have spoilt us and fed us - Texas style.
One of the pleasant surprises has been how many church goers there are in my new family. So on Sunday we went to Greenacres Baptist Church www.gabc.org where some of the family attend along with 6,000 others! It was great. It was big: 40 in the band/orchestra; 200 in the choir, large auditorium; great pastor (who we met afterwards) multi-meeting; big campus. Interesting to observe that you can choose what type of worship service to attend according to your musical taste - traditional or contemporary. We went to both to get a feel and liked both (not quite sure what that says about me!).

No Perfect People Allowed

2011-04-08T21:40:00.002-05:00

John Burke leads a great church in Austin Texas. www.gatewaychurch.com. He has also written a fine book called: No Perfect People Allowed.As you can guess his premise is that the church should be a place of welcome for anyone regardless of what they have been through or what they are struggling with. Gateway is full of Christ seekers and Christ followers who have been through, or are experiencing, all kinds of difficulties.
His challenge that maybe Jesus would retell the story of the Good Samaritan using instead the Parable of the Good Gay makes you think.
The basic question then becomes: How welcoming is your church?
Burke also sites research conducted by Christan Schwartz who studied 1000 successful churches and discovered the following common characteristics:
-empowering leadership
-gift-orientated ministry
-spiritual passion
-organisational structure
-holistic small groups
-loving relationships
-need-orientated evangelism
-inspiring worship services

Diggin' Dallas

2011-04-07T09:22:00.003-05:00

I am enjoying one party after another in Dallas in the run up to the wedding reception on Saturday. My brother has found himself a real life gun-tottin' Texan wife. Last night was the family party at the ranch - complete with cattle, cowboys, dune bugs, jeeps and shooting guns. Certainly different and great fun.
Other events have included watching basketball, shopping, bird watching, meeting lots of the new family and the customary visit to the doctor for Phoebe - she was stung by a Texan style yellow-jacket and reacted to the sting. She is OK now.
One of the real highlights is the generous hospitality of our new Texan family and friends. They are so caring, kind and thoughtful. Nothing it seems it too much trouble: food, cups of tea, shopping, taking the boat out, playing golf, playing basketball...
Still 2 more parties to go before the Big One

92k!

2011-04-05T10:06:00.006-05:00

I am still enjoying the afterglow of a memorable Sunday; nintey-two thousand pounds raised on the Gift Day. Amazing. I am constantly amazed at God and amazed at the generosity and faith of the people of God. The Gift Day was for the new Beacon Centre which will be opening in a month. More than that however the money raised is money sewn into lives through the Mission and Ministry of the church.
This means of course that we will not have to borrow as much as we thought we might.
Not only was Sunday a milestone because of the Gift Day but we also unfurled the new look Beacon logos (see below). Kate's word to us as a church about the unfurling of the butterfly ready to fly was a great encouragement to us all. For me it also marked 16 years of leading the church and 25 years in ministry - so a milestone Sunday for many reasons.
What a great church I lead. God is doing something wonderful amoung us.

New logo

2011-03-30T06:17:00.002-05:00

Today I am excited. The new logos have arrived. That may not sound exciting but it is. Months of work, design and meetings mean that on Sunday 3rd April we can launch the new look of The Beacon Church. This means new look logo, new look banners, new look headed paper, new look signs, new look Update...new look lots of things. All on schedule and in time for the Gift Day\ Mother's Day this Sunday and ready for the new building.
I am grateful to Ruth, our designer, who has taught me a lot in the process. I did not know that shapes, colours and fonts had a tone of voice before!