Romans 12 v. 1

Let us keep running in the race that God has planned for us.

Here we are again at the start of a new year! Time to make new plans, get fit, and be better at what we do. This year particularly is one when we will all be thinking about fitness and running races as we approach the 2012 London Olympics. What are you planning for this year? Will it be Messy church sessions, family praise events, holiday clubs or maybe you are thinking about your own personal development and what training you need. Sarah and I, along with the members of the Children’s Committee would like to know your plans and how our team may be able to help you and your parish. Please get in touch and let us know.

The first training day this year is on Saturday 11th February - ‘Running the Race’ when we will have workshops to help you to plan Olympic themed events for children’s ministry. You can choose to come for the morning or afternoon at the Foxfields Hotel near Blackburn and workshops for ‘Messy Olympics, Olympic All-age worship, Olympic crafts, under-five Olympics and Olympic holiday clubs. We will also have lots of resources for you on all things Olympic. So we think we’ve covered the Olympics!!!!  Workshop leaders will be Alison Newsham-Messy Church, Lisa Fenton-All-age worship, Veronica Priest-holiday clubs, Janet Taylor-crafts and Sarah Earnshaw-under-fives. We hope to see you there!

We have sent letters to all clergy and PCC secretaries encouraging them to support children’s workers who may want to come to the Children’s Work Conference in March at the Headway Hotel. This may be in the way of financial support or simply by supporting your personal development through arranging to cover or cancel the children’s work on the Sunday should you wish to come for the weekend. More information about the weekend can be found inside.

Exciting News!! We have booked Farmer Parr’s again for a family day at the farm on Saturday 28th April. We had such a great day there last year and so many families enjoyed themselves as we thought about Creation, met the animals and shared our picnics.

God bless                                                                                                                 Sue