NOVAR NEWS February 2012 - April 2012
Finishing the race
One of our preoccupations, as a nation, over these coming months will be the holding of the Olympic Games. That day in 2005, when we were awarded the games seems so long ago now, but many will remember when they first heard the news – I was crossing Victoria Station during a lunch hour when they announced it over the tannoy. And so our minds will be on races.
Usually there is the great race to have all the facilities ready on time, although we seem to be more advanced than most host cities. Then there will be the races themselves, with athletes running or swimming, pushing themselves to be the first to the finishing line, so as to win the gold medal. Olympic Games go right back to bible times so it is not surprising that references to races sometime are to be found.
Paul, coming towards the end of his earthly life says this "...the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4 v 6 – 7). Paul is seeking to encourage Timothy to continue his ministry and Christian life, and so cites the example of his own faithfulness to the gospel. "Press on, Timothy, just as I have done." What is good for Timothy is good for us also. We must press on too. But is it worth it? you may ask.
Paul continues...
I have in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day" (2 Timothy 4 v8).
The prize for an Olympic champion is a gold medal; for Paul it is a crown of righteousness. Not for Paul only, but all faithful Christians, for Paul goes on "and not only for me but also to all who have longed for his (Christ's) appearing ". (2 Timothy 4 v8) DG
News
Novartots - We still have 10 Mums at present with no waiting list so please pray that more will be encouraged to come and join a very happy group on Tuesday mornings. It has been good to see several of the mums, including those who have left, at Messy Church.
Shipshapes - have nearly 20 each week. Please pray for the busy leaders and for more leaders so that they can split the group into different ages when appropriate.
Little Fishes - As you know we have been praying for more babies and mums to come along. We have seen 1 or 2 visit a few times but nothing continuing. Well, prayers are being answered and we have recently seen a response. We are hoping that through Lucy, Robina, Alex and Anna we can reach out to more mums and babies in the area. Speaking to ex-Little Fishes mums it really seems that this unique little group has been and hopefully will continue to be a haven for new mums. Please continue to pray and have a special prayer for
Lucy and Christopher, Robina, Adam and Zara, Alex and Isla, Anna and Marie Louise
Ladies’ Fellowship - We were looking forward to our Christmas lunch cooked by Christine and Pam and we weren't disappointed. A big thank you to them.
Our new term has begun and we look forward to meeting together and listening to our very good speakers.
We are unfortunately a small group and when anyone is not there we do miss them. We are particularly concerned for Connie who is in a unit Thamesmead for assessment following a couple of falls. Our love and prayers go out to her.
We were also sad to hear that Ellen Rudd died recently. Our thoughts are with her family. I'm sure we would all appreciate your prayers, firstly for the ladies' health and for more people to join us. Chris
Messy Church - We have now held 4 events and have received very good feedback from the parents. We do not advertise it widely as we do not have room for many more when all the tables are up and full of children and adults involved in a variety of crafts. They then quieten down for a short service followed by a much appreciated hot meal. We do thank all those who come and help in various ways.
Please continue to pray for this venture that the message will be heard and remembered after all the fun has finished.
Rock Solid - see about 12 regular teenagers once a fortnight.
The Sunday Club and RS2 meet during the morning service each Sunday.
The Men's group - 10 - 12 meet once a month to play games, see a video and hear a message.
Craft Club -also meet once a month and enjoy making all sorts of creations.
For your prayers
For your diary -
Messy Church – 10th February, 9th March
United prayer meeting - 7 March at Novar