Pew Sheet 1st and 8th January 2012

St Dunstan’s Church, Monks Risborough
& St. Peter’s Chapel, Owlswick

Part of the Risborough Team Ministry

www.stdunstanschurch.com

Vicar – The Revd James Tomkins

01844 275944 (day off Tuesday)

jamestomkins@btinternet.com

The Rectory, Mill Lane, Monks Risborough, HP27 9JE

Welcome!

We hope you will enjoy worshipping here with us.



On January 8th the Junior Church (10 o’clock Club) meet in the Church Hall before coming into Church for Communion.

Please join us for refreshments in the Church Hall immediately after the 10.00am service.

  All are welcome.

 

Sunday 1st January 2012

2nd Sunday of Christmas

8.00 am Holy Communion (BCP)

10.00 am All Age Family Eucharist
and Baptism of Andrew Huxford and Caroline Taylor

 

The words of the angels still echo in our ears: “Good news of great joy for all the people!” Come and rejoice with us, rejoice with Mary, rejoice with the angels, rejoice with the shepherds! Christ is born, and the whole world is born anew with him.

Hymns

Introit: 525
Gradual: 93 
Offertory: 588
Communion: 47, 182, 776
Recessional: 503

First Reading               Isaiah 61:10 – 62:3

Words of encouragement for a people whose failure sits heavy on their souls: they will be restored to joy and confidence, and be “a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord”.

Gospel Reading            Luke 2: 15-21

Having received further confirmation from the shepherds as to God’s special purposes at work in their son, Mary and Joseph name him Jesus, the name given to them by the angel. 


6.00pm  Choral Evensong

Readings  Isaiah 35, Colossians 1:9-20

Hymns: 536, Psalm 132: 1-7, 409, 69

Prayer for the week


God our Father, in love you sent your Son that the world may have life: lead us to seek him among the outcast and to find him in those in need, for Jesus Christ’s sake.

Sunday 8th January 2012
Epiphany

As we join the wise men from the East at the cradle of Jesus, prepare to bring your own gifts to the infant king.  If you come with a rich abundance of joy, then so be it. If you come with a great burden of unhappiness, so be it.  Come just you are, in riches or poverty, and worship the king of unconditional love.  

10.00am Parish Eucharist   (Lane Setting)

Hymns

Introit: 724
Psalm: 29  
Offertory: 40
Communion: 326, 77, 938

Recessional: 85
First Reading                Isaiah 60: 1-6

One day all nations will acknowledge the light of God.  Mention of frankincense and gold echo today’s story of the wise men. 

 Second Reading           Ephesians 3:1-12

Paul explains his mission: to bring the riches of his ancient faith to a people who had previously been excluded from its scope.

 Gospel Reading            Matthew 2: 1-12

It is business as usual for Mary and Joseph and their infant child when some strangers arrive from the East with gifts fit for a king.


11.30 am   Owlswick Holy Communion

Ephesians 3:1-12; Matthew 2: 1-12

6.00pm   Choral Evensong (Baptism of Christ)

Readings: Isaiah 42: 1-9, Ephesians 2:1-10

Hymns 516, Psalm 46:1-7, 84, 70


Prayer for the week

God of salvation, in the river Jordan you bathed your Son Jesus in glory and revealed him as your obedient servant.  In spirit and in power rend the heavens and come down to us.  Strengthen us to acknowledge your Christ, that we who are reborn in his likeness may walk with him the path of obedience.  Grant this through Jesus Christ, your Word made flesh, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, in the splendour of eternal light, God for ever and ever.

Your prayers are asked this week for:

• The political and military situations in North Korea, Syria, Afghanistan and other countries experiencing change or unrest
• The National Society, giving thanks for their long association with schools and their continued promotion of Christian Education
• The mission ministry and congregational life of St Mary’s Church (PR) and Holy Trinity Church (B)
• All nursery units within our schools for the firm foundations of good schooling
• Residents of Abbotts Way, Courtmoor Close (MR) Almond Way , Alscot Lane, Berryfield Road  and Berndene Rise (PR)
• Those in need who are known in our parish:
• and also further afield for:
• Gordon Haynes; Christine; Joan Male; Richard Irvine; Emma, Matt and Olivia; Sarah and Matt; Sally Maddox, Sylvia Jackson
• Those whose anniversary of death falls at this time particularly:  
•  (1/1/) Elizabeth Spittles, Shelagh Bartlett, Doug Crabbe, (8/1) Rotraut Campbell, Sheila Gibson, Doris Hill, Norman Roper

Please remember the charities that St Dunstan's supports, in particular this week:

Tearfund, working in partnership with Christian agencies and churches worldwide to tackle the causes and effects of poverty.   

Notices

Thank you

Thank you to everyone who has helped to make the Christmas season such a special time. Many people have helped out with the additional services, bell ringing, singing in the choir, decorating both the inside and the outside of the church, providing refreshments and being involved in various other ways. Just fewer than 600 people attended the services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and 150 people attended the service of Nine Lessons and Carols the week before. Around £650 has been raised as a result of our special services and carol singing. May I wish you every blessing for the New Year. James

Christmas Decorations coming down, January 5th

The decorations /flower arrangements are coming down on Thursday 5th January 2012 at 10.15 a.m. as well as ladies a man or two would be helpful to get the tree down.

New choir director

I am delighted to announce that starting from January 11th we will be welcoming Diogo Cerdeira to the parish as choir director. We look forward to working with him as we build on the long standing musical tradition within the parish.

Fellowship Group Jan 12th  Coffee Morning

There will be no evening meeting but Janet is hosting a coffee morning from 10.30 – noon at 6 Dovecote Close.

Bible Study Group – ‘The Apprentice’

‘The Apprentice’ is a course that covers the following themes: journeying; longing; believing; questioning and belonging. Following a short DVD, a series of questions will help us to explore and discuss these various topics. The next session will be held on Thursday January 12th from 8.00 to 9.30 at The Rectory. All are welcome. James

The Next Couple of Weeks

Morning Prayer takes place on Monday (apart from Bank Holidays), Wednesday and Thursday at 8.45 at St. Dunstan’s

Sun 1st Jan	8.00am  Holy Communion 10.00am  All Age Family Eucharist and Adult Baptisms 6.00pm Choral Evensong
Wed 4th Jan	No morning prayer
Thurs 5th Jan	9.30am  Healing and Holy Communion (Rev Jennifer Locke) 2.00pm Monks Monkeys restarts
Sun 8th Jan Epiphany	10.00am Parish Eucharist (Rev. David Wallace) 11.30am  Owlswick Holy Communion (Rev Donald Rydings) 6.00pm  Choral Evensong (Margaret Pitman)
Thurs 12th Jan	9.30am  Holy Communion 10.30am Fellowship Group Coffee Morning (see notices) 2.00pm  Monks Monkeys 8.00pm ‘The Apprentice’ house group at the Rectory (see notices)
Sun 15th Jan	10.00am  Parish Eucharist 6.00pm  Choral Evensong
Mon 16th Jan	8.00 pm PCC meeting (church hall)
Thurs 19th Jan	9.30am  Holy Communion 2.00pm  Monks Monkeys
Sun 22rd Jan	10.00am  Parish Eucharist, God in the life of...James Tomkins 3.00pm  Owlswick Choral Evensong

Pew Sheet 24th/25th December 2011

St Dunstan’s Church, Monks Risborough
& St. Peter’s Chapel, Owlswick

Part of the Risborough Team Ministry

www.stdunstanschurch.com

Vicar – The Revd James Tomkins

01844 275944 (day off Tuesday)

jamestomkins@btinternet.com

The Rectory, Mill Lane, Monks Risborough, HP27 9JE

Welcome!

We hope you will enjoy worshipping here with us.

   

Saturday 24th December 2011

Christmas Eve

11.30pm Midnight Eucharist       (Addington setting)

 

The journey of Christmas is the story of new life.  It is also the story of all creation, as the first words of Genesis are echoed in the Gospel of St John – “in the beginning” was the Word. 

Hymns

Introit: 521

Gradual: 148  

Offertory: 330

Communion: 634, 597, 326, 321

Recessional: 479

First Reading               Isaiah 52: 7-10

The proclamation of peace, good news and salvation is beautiful to behold and to hear.

Second Reading           Hebrews 1: 1-4

God spoke to our ancestors, through the prophets, but now he has spoken through his son, the heir of all things, and the exact imprint of God’s very being.

Gospel Reading            John 1: 1-14

The Word of God has existed since the beginning and before.  Jesus, the Word made flesh, the light of God, came into the world to enlighten humankind.  John was sent by God as the precursor of Jesus.  Though the light was not accepted, the darkness cannot extinguish it, and those who accept it become children of God.

  

Sunday 25th December 2011

Christmas Day

8.00am Holy Communion (BCP)

10.00am Christmas Day Family Eucharist

Hymns

Introit: 508

Gradual: 93  

Offertory: 745

Communion: 350, 321, 776

Recessional: 266

First Reading                Isaiah 62: 6-end

The prophet proclaims that the news of God’s deliverance will reach every corner of the world, to call all his people back to himself. He will redeem them, and make them his holy ones

 Gospel Reading            Luke 2 : 8-20

Luke, the master storyteller, gives us pictures we shall never forget, of the humble birth at Bethlehem of the Saviour of the world, and the shining glory which brought shepherds to worship the Lamb of God    

Prayer for the week

Lord Jesus Christ, your birth at Bethlehem draws us to kneel in wonder at heaven touching earth; accept our heartfelt praise as we worship you, our Saviour and our eternal God. 

Your prayers are asked this week for:

• The people of Iraq and Syria; that democracy may flourish and violence be set aside in favour of tolerance, trust and truth.
• The Whitechapel Mission helping to serve the homeless and the hungry 365 days a year
• Other charities that bring gifts to those in need, especially Crisis and their Christmas shelters
• All who have to work over the holiday to provide essential services or who give up their own time to bring joy to others
• The mission, ministry and congregational life of The Chilterns Christian Fellowship.
• Local MPs and those who support their work.
•  Residents of Windmill Hill (PR) Saunderton Vale and Saunderton Lodge, Wellington Ave (PR) and Little Lane  (Sa)
• Those in need who are known in our parish:
• and also further afield for:
• Gordon Haynes; Christine; Joan Male; Richard Irvine; Emma, Matt and Olivia; Sarah and Matt; Sally Maddox, Dewis Smith, Sylvia Jackson
• Those whose anniversary of death falls at this time particularly:  
•  Irene Edwards, Geoff Stevens, Philip Kelleway, Amy Wilkins, Geoff Copcutt

Please remember the charities that St Dunstan's supports, in particular this week:

Tearfund, working in partnership with Christian agencies and churches worldwide to tackle the causes and effects of poverty.   

Notices

 

Thank you

Thank you to everyone who has helped to make the Advent and Christmas season such a special time. Many people have helped out with the additional services, decorating both the inside and the outside of the church, providing refreshments and being involved in various other ways. By the end of this period we will have raised several hundred pounds for a number of charities following collections at our special services and by carol singing. May I wish you all a very happy Christmas and every blessing for the New Year. James

Volunteer Needed

Bob Reece has decided to retire from handling the advertising for the Newsletter after over 30 years!  We are looking for someone to take his place.  The work is to send out invoices annually to about 40 advertisers – and gently chase them up – sometimes! 

Adverts are usually prepared by the advertisers but suggestions are often welcomed. Further details can be got from Bob Reece (01844 346297) or David Kemp (01844 344097)

New choir director

I am delighted to announce that starting from January 11th we will be welcoming Diogo Cerdeira to the parish as choir director. We look forward to working with him as we build on the long standing musical tradition within the parish.

The ‘Stable’ DOOR

The January edition of The Door newspaper (free) is now available to take home. Articles include: ‘The Carol service mystery’; why singing carols is good for us and ‘The proof of the Christmas pudding’, by the Bishop of Oxford.


Applying for a Grant from Hody’s Charity

This was founded by a rector of St Dunstan’s Church, Monks Risborough in 1706, and added to by his successor Dr Quarles.  It provides grants for students in further or higher education or for apprentices who live in the parish or who are on the electoral roll.  Applicant must be <21 at the time of their first application and <25 years old on receipt of the last grant.  You can apply three times.  This is the time of year for applications.  Please call Rosemary if you would like to apply.  344417


End of year service

There will be a service of Evening Prayer on December 31st at 5pm to provide an opportunity to give thanks for the year that is about to pass and to ask for God’s blessing as we journey through 2012. James

Double edition of the Pew sheet (January 1st/8th)

Please ensure that all notices for this edition are submitted by December 28th. Space may be limited.

Fellowship Group Jan 12th  Coffee Morning

There will be no evening meeting but Janet is hosting a coffee morning from 10.30 – noon at 6 Dovecote Close.

The Next Couple of Weeks

Morning Prayer takes place on Monday (apart from Bank Holidays), Wednesday and Thursday at 8.45 at St. Dunstan’s

Sat 24th Dec	Christmas Eve 3.00pm   Crib service 6.00pm   Village carol service 11.30pm  Midnight Eucharist
Sun 25th Dec	Christmas Day 8.00am  Holy Communion (BCP) 10.00am  All Age Family Eucharist
Thurs 29th Dec	9.30 am Holy Communion
Sat 31st Dec	5.00 pm Evening Prayer (see notices)
Sun 1st Jan	8.00am  Holy Communion 10.00am  All Age Family Eucharist and Adult Baptisms 6.00pm Choral Evensong
Wed 4th Jan	No morning prayer
Thurs 5th Jan	9.30am  Healing and Holy Communion (Rev Jennifer Locke) 2.00pm Monks Monkeys restarts
Sun 8th Jan Epiphany	10.00am Parish Eucharist (Rev. David Wallace) 11.30am  Owlswick Holy Communion (Rev Donald Rydings) 6.00pm  Choral Evensong (Margaret Pitman)
Thurs 12th Jan	9.30am  Holy Communion 10.30am Fellowship Group Coffee Morning (see notices) 2.00pm  Monks Monkeys 8.00pm ‘The Apprentice’ house group at the Rectory
Sun 15th Jan	10.00am  Parish Eucharist 6.00pm  Choral Evensong

Pew Sheet 18th December 2011

St Dunstan’s Church, Monks Risborough
& St. Peter’s Chapel, Owlswick

Part of the Risborough Team Ministry

www.stdunstanschurch.com

Vicar – The Revd James Tomkins

01844 275944 (day off Tuesday)

jamestomkins@btinternet.com

The Rectory, Mill Lane, Monks Risborough, HP27 9JE

Welcome!

We hope you will enjoy worshipping here with us.

The Junior Church (10 o’clock Club) are staying in the Church Hall for their party.

Please join us for refreshments in the Church Hall immediately after the 10.00am service.  All are welcome.

 

Today

Sunday 18th December 2011

4th Sunday of Advent

When the Angel Gabriel told Mary she was favoured by God, he gave her the most difficult task in the world, but Mary instantly pledged her obedience.  In our worship today, let us listen for the song of the angels and the voice of God, and let us too pledge our obedience, whatever God should ask of us. 

10.00am Parish Eucharist (Merbecke Setting)

Hymns

Introit: 631    

Psalm: 89:1-9  

Offertory: 406

Communion: 381, 182, 536

Recessional: 405

First Reading                2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16

David wants to build a magnificent house for God, but God has other ideas. God has not asked for a permanent house. Instead, God promises to establish the royal house and heritage of David for all future generations.  

Second Reading           Romans 16:25 - 27

In a final climax to his book, St Paul proclaims Jesus Christ as God, the revelation of a mystery which was kept secret from human beings for aeons, but is now revealed to the whole world. 

Gospel Reading            Luke 1: 26-38

The angel Gabriel visits Mary to inform her that she has been chosen by God to bear God’s Son, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Mary promises obedience to God. 

3.00pm             Owlswick Carol Service

6.00pm             Nine Lessons and Carols 



Prayer for the week


Here in our midst, O God of mystery, you disclose the secret hidden for countless ages.  For you we wait; for you we listen.  Upon hearing your voice may we, like Mary embrace your will and become a dwelling fit for your Word.  Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever.

Your prayers are asked this week for:

• The people of Iraq, that following the withdrawal of American troops, democracy may flourish and violence be set aside in favour of tolerance, trust and truth.
• All who are suffering as a result of financial crisis
• The work of Christian Aid and Cafod, for their commitment to the world poor and establishing fair trade
• Longwick CE Combined School, its pupils, staff, head and governors.
• Residents of Windsor Hill (Princes Risborough) Crownfield and Wycombe Road (Speen)
• Those in need who are known in our parish:
• and also further afield for:
• Gordon Haynes; Christine; Deborah Ryley; Joan Male; Richard Irvine; Emma, Matt and Olivia; Sarah and Matt; Sally Maddox, Dewis Smith, Sylvia Jackson
• For the recently departed:   
•  Rowland Hill
• Those whose anniversary of death falls at this time particularly:  
•  Nancy Rutland, Peter Hoar, Lilian Green

Please remember the charities that St Dunstan's supports, in particular this week:

Parents and Children Together (PACT), working to build and strengthen families in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and across the UK and internationally. 

Notices

Carol Singing around the village, December 19th

Meeting at 6.30 pm at St. Dunstan’s everyone is invited to come carol singing around the village to help raise money for charity. Afterwards refreshments will be served. If you enjoy singing please come along – singers of all standards are welcome!

Volunteer Needed

Bob Reece has decided to retire from handling the advertising for the Newsletter after over 30 years!  We are looking for someone to take his place.  The work is to send out invoices annually to about 40 advertisers – and gently chase them up – sometimes! 

Adverts are usually prepared by the advertisers but suggestions are often welcomed. Further details can be got from Bob Reece (01844 346297) or David Kemp (01844 344097)

New choir director

I am delighted to announce that starting in the New Year we will be welcoming Diogo Cerdeira to the parish as choir director. We look forward to working with him as we build on the long standing musical tradition within the parish.

The 'Stable DOOR'

The January edition of The Door newspaper is now available to take home. Articles include: ‘The Carol service mystery’; why singing carols is good for us and ‘The proof of the Christmas pudding’, by the Bishop of Oxford.

Advent reflection

A last chance to look at the 2011 Advent Calendar. For each day there is a reading, meditation and prayers based around Mary's journey to Bethlehem, from her meeting with the Angel to the first Christmas in Bethlehem. Please use the link below to subscribe to this site and to help you prepare yourself spiritually for Christmas. James

https://sites.google.com/site/adventsite2011/

Applying for a Grant from Hody’s Charity

This was founded by a rector of St Dunstan’s Church, Monks Risborough in 1706, and added to by his successor

Dr Quarles. It provides grants for students in further or higher education or for apprentices who live in the parish or who are on the electoral roll. Applicant must be <21 at the time of their first application and <25 years old on receipt of the last grant.  You can apply three times.  This is the time of year for applications. Please call Rosemary if you would like to apply.  344417

End of year service

There will be a service of Evening Prayer on December 31st at 5pm to provide an opportunity to give thanks for the year that is about to pass and to ask for God’s blessing as we journey through 2012. James

Double edition of the Pew sheet (January 1st/8th)

Please ensure that all notices for this edition are submitted by December 28th. Space may be limited

The Next Couple of Weeks

Morning Prayer takes place on Monday (apart from Bank Holidays), Wednesday and Thursday at 8.45 at St. Dunstan’s

Sun 18th Dec	10.00 am Parish Eucharist and Sunday School Christmas Party! 3.00 pm Carol service, Owlswick 6.00pm  Nine lessons and Carols
Mon Dec 19th	6.30 pm Carol singing (see notices)
Wed Dec 21st	2.30 pm Friendship Group (hall)
Thurs 22nd Dec	9.30 am  Holy Communion
Sat 24th Dec	Christmas Eve 3.00 pm  Crib Service 6.00 pm   Village Carol Service 11.30 pm  Midnight Eucharist
Sun 25th Dec	Christmas Day 8.00 am  Holy Communion 10.00 am  All Age Family Eucharist
Thurs 29th Dec	9.30 am Holy Communion
Sat 31st Dec	5.00 pm Evening Prayer (see notices)
Sun 1st Jan	8.00 am  Holy Communion 10.00 am  All Age Family Eucharist and adult Baptisms 6.00 pm Choral Evensong
Wed 4th Jan	No morning prayer
Thurs 5th Jan	9.30 am Healing and Holy Communion (Rev Jennifer Locke) 2.00 pm Monks Monkeys restarts
Sun 8th Jan	10.00am Parish Eucharist (Revs. David and Nancy Wallace) 11.30 am Owlswick Holy Communion (Rev Donald Rydings) 6.00 pm Choral Evensong (Margaret Pitman)

Pew Sheet 11th December 2011

St Dunstan’s Church, Monks Risborough
& St. Peter’s Chapel, Owlswick

Part of the Risborough Team Ministry

www.stdunstanschurch.com

Vicar – The Revd James Tomkins

01844 275944 (day off Tuesday)

jamestomkins@btinternet.com

The Rectory, Mill Lane, Monks Risborough, HP27 9JE

Welcome!

We hope you will enjoy worshipping here with us.

The Junior Church (10 o’clock Club) meet in the Church Hall before coming into Church for Communion.

Please join us for refreshments in the Church Hall immediately after the 10.00am service.  All are welcome. 

Today

Sunday 11th December 2011

3rd Sunday of Advent

On this third Sunday of Advent, we gather in hope and faith, preparing for the promised coming of Christ at Christmas and in the age to come. 

10.00am Parish Eucharist (Merbecke Setting)

Hymns

Introit: 527    
Psalm: 126  
Offertory: 259
Communion: 374, 168, 931
Recessional: 565

First Reading                Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11

God promises justice and joy, restoration and renewal; the good news has already brought salvation, for it is God’s nature to fulfil the promise.
Second Reading           1 Thessalonians 5:16- 24

Guided by the Spirit, let us rejoice and give thanks for the good news of Jesus Christ and trust in his return, for God keeps promises.

Gospel Reading            John 1: 6-8, 19-28 Although John was not God’s promised Messiah, his baptism of repentance prepared the way for Jesus; yet the religious establishment failed to recognise either of them. 


11.30am   Owlswick Holy Communion

6.00pm   Choral Evensong

Readings:  Malachi 3: 1-4 & chapter 4

Philippians 4: 4-7

Hymns: 580, Psalm 68:1-8, 633, 314



Prayer for the week

O God, most high and most near, you send glad tidings to the lowly, you hide not your face from the poor; those who dwell in darkness you call into the light.  Take away our blindness, remove the hardness of our hearts, and form us into a humble people, that, at the advent of you Son, we may recognise him in our midst and find joy in his saving presence.  We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever.

Your prayers are asked this week for:

•  For the leaders of the European nations as they seek to ease the financial crisis
•  For the people of Egypt and of Syria, as they seek freedom and justice
•  For those who have died in the recent violence in Afghanistan
•  For those whose homes and businesses have been damaged by the recent storms and wintry weather
•  For those who will be homeless and living in poverty this Christmas: that we may we show a true concern for their needs and that they too may rejoice at the coming of Christ.
• All teachers and lecturers and other staff in schools and colleges. Good parent-teacher relationships.
• International aid charities and those who collect and support them.
• Residents of Walnut Crescent (Longwick), Hinton Crossing (Bledlow)
• Those in need who are known in our parish:
• and also further afield for:
• Gordon Haynes; Christine; Deborah Ryley; Joan Male; Richard Irvine; Emma, Matt and Olivia; Sarah and Matt; Sally Maddox, Dewis Smith, Sylvia Jackson
• For the recently departed:   
•   Joan Pitcher, Dorothy Pine
• Those whose anniversary of death falls at this time particularly:  
•  Roy Faithfull, Joan Howard, Jason Travers, Ronald Faulkner, Lillian Thomas, Audrey Astley-Cooper

Please remember the charities that St Dunstan's supports, in particular this week:

Parents and Children Together (PACT), working to build and strengthen families in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and across the UK and internationally. 

Notices

Christingle 2011 – wow!
Thank you to everyone who came along to help last Saturday at the Christingle making factory. In total 200 Christingles were made in record time. The service itself was attended by around 230 people and around £500 will have been raised for the work of the Children’s Society. Rosemary and James

Volunteer Needed
Bob Reece has decided to retire from handling the advertising for the Newsletter after over 30 years!  We are looking for someone to take his place.  The work is to send out invoices annually to about 40 advertisers – and gently chase them up – sometimes! 
Adverts are usually prepared by the advertisers but suggestions are often welcomed. Further details can be got from Bob Reece (01844 346297) or David Kemp (01844 344097)

Christmas Candlelight Concert, December 14th
The Chinnor Band will be performing a variety of seasonal music along with the opportunity to sing some carols.  Tickets £7 and include interval mince pie and drink.  Tickets Rosemary 344417 or David Shuttle

Carol Singing around the village, December 19th
Meeting at 6.30 pm at St. Dunstan’s everyone is invited to come carol singing around the village to help raise money for charity. Afterwards refreshments will be served. If you enjoy singing please come along – singers of all standards are welcome!

New choir director
I am delighted to announce that starting in the New Year we will be welcoming Diogo Cerdeira to the parish as choir director. We look forward to working with him as we build on the long standing musical tradition within the parish.

Advent reflection
Welcome to the 2011 Advent Calendar. For each day there is a reading, meditation and prayers based around Mary's journey to Bethlehem, from her meeting with the Angel to the first Christmas in Bethlehem. Please use the link below to subscribe to this site and to help you prepare yourself spiritually for Christmas. James
https://sites.google.com/site/adventsite2011/

Monks Monkeys, Thursdays (term time), 2 pm to 3 pm
Praise and play for the under fives plus parents/carers in the church hall. Each session includes ‘action’ songs, an interactive Bible story and short prayers. There is also some time for the children to play, adults to chat and refreshments to be served. On the 4th Thursday of the month we meet in the Church for an additional special craft activity. No need to book, just turn up on the day. If you would like more information please contact: Rev James Tomkins (01844) 275944; Sarah Fairall (01844) 344164; Sue Ingram (01844) 275287; Debbie Norie (01844) 345437; Ann Myers (01494) 488479

Applying for a Grant from Hody’s Charity
This was founded by a rector of St Dunstan’s Church, Monks Risborough in 1706, and added to by his successor Dr Quarles.  It provides grants for students in further or higher education or for apprentices who live in the parish or who are on the electoral roll.  Applicant must be <21 at the time of their first application and <25 years old on receipt of the last grant.  You can apply three times.  This is the time of year for applications.  Please call Rosemary if you would like to apply.  344417

End of year service
There will be a service of Evening Prayer on December 31st at 5pm to provide an opportunity to give thanks for the year that is about to pass and to ask for God’s blessing as we journey through 2012. James

The Next Couple of Weeks

Morning Prayer takes place on Monday (apart from Bank Holidays), Wednesday and Thursday at 8.45 at St. Dunstan’s

Sun 11th Dec	10.00 am  Parish Eucharist 11.30 am  Holy Communion, Owlswick             6.00 pm    Evensong
Mon 12th Dec	11.30 am Funeral service for Joan Pitcher
Wed 14th Dec	8.00 pm Concert (see notices)
Thurs 15th Dec	9.30 am Holy Communion 10.30 am School service 2.00 pm Monks Monkeys
Fri 16th Dec	9.30 am School service
Sat 17th Dec	Decoration of the church (am)
Sun 18th Dec	10.00am Parish Eucharist and Sunday School Christmas Party! 3.00 Carol service, Owlswick 6.00 pm  Nine lessons and Carols
Mon Dec 19th	6.30 pm Carol singing (see notices)
Wed Dec 21st	2.30 pm Friendship Group (hall)
Thurs 22nd Dec	9.30 am  Holy Communion
Sat 24th Dec	Christmas Eve 3.00 pm  Crib Service 6.00 pm   Village Carol Service 11.30 pm  Midnight Eucharist
Sun 25th Dec	Christmas Day 8.00 am  Holy Communion 10.00 am  All Age Family Eucharist

Pew Sheet 4th December 2011

St Dunstan’s Church, Monks Risborough
& St. Peter’s Chapel, Owlswick

Part of the Risborough Team Ministry

www.stdunstanschurch.com

Vicar – The Revd James Tomkins

01844 275944 (day off Tuesday)

jamestomkins@btinternet.com

The Rectory, Mill Lane, Monks Risborough, HP27 9JE

Welcome!

We hope you will enjoy worshipping here with us.

Please join us for refreshments in the Church Hall immediately after the 10.00am service.  All are welcome.

Today

Sunday 4th December 2011

2nd Sunday of Advent

Today we hear the voice of John the Baptist calling to us from the wilderness.  He calls us to prepare ourselves for the coming of the Lord.  We pray that as we come to worship God and seek forgiveness and blessing, God will reveal his glory and give to us healing and peace through the Holy Spirit. 

8.00 am Holy Communion (BCP)

Readings


First Reading                Isaiah 40:1-11

The prophet brings good news and comfort to the people of Jerusalem to whom the glory of the Lord is to be revealed.

Gospel Reading            Mark 1:1-8

John identifies himself as the voice spoken of by Isaiah.  He is out in the wilderness, calling people to turn to God.  He urges them to prepare themselves for the revelation of God’s glory n the one who is to come after him.

 

10.00 am Christingle Service         

6.00pm   Evensong

Readings:  1 Kings 22:1-28 Romans 15:4-13

Hymns: 57, Psalm 40:14-21, 655, 447



Prayer for the week

Almighty God, purify our hearts and minds that when your Son Jesus Christ comes again as judge and saviour we may be ready to receive him, who is our Lord and our God. Amen

 

Your prayers are asked this week for:

• Vulnerable and disadvantaged children, and the work of The Children’s Society
• Bucks University College, young people from this area at university
• Peace throughout the world, particularly in Egypt and Syria that people’s human rights might be honoured and respected.
• The Anglican Church of Nigeria
• Cancer charities which work for a medical cure for all forms of this medical condition
• Residents of The Avenue (PR) Oddley Lane (B)
• Those in need who are known in our parish:
• and also further afield for:
• Gordon Haynes; Christine; Deborah Ryley; Joan Male; Richard Irvine; Emma, Matt and Olivia; Sarah and Matt; Sally Maddox, Dewis Smith
• For the recently departed:   
•   Bill Benham, Joan Pitcher
• Those whose anniversary of death falls at this time particularly:  
•  Barry Mortimer, Eva Plumbe, Ethel Foster, Francis Lambell, Alan Gibson, Joseph Cooper

Please remember the charities that St Dunstan's supports, in particular this week:

Parents and Children Together (PACT), working to build and strengthen families in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and across the UK and internationally. 

Notices

Advent reflection

Welcome to the 2011 Advent Calendar. For each day there is a reading, meditation and prayers based around Mary's journey to Bethlehem, from her meeting with the Angel to the first Christmas in Bethlehem. Please use the link below to subscribe to this site and to help you prepare yourself spiritually for Christmas. James
https://sites.google.com/site/adventsite2011/

Very many thanks.....

to everyone who helped before, during and after the Advent Craft Fair. Thanks to your efforts we raised over £750 for the church, and hosted a happy morning for the community.


Lift to Winchester Christmas Market - Monday 5th

I am meeting some friends near Winchester next Monday and I shall be visiting the market by the Cathedral. If you would like a lift (there and back!) please let me know. Rosemary 344417


Silent Prayer Meeting, 8.00 pm (church hall), December 5th

We need silence to help us to get a proper perspective on our lives; to hear the still, small voice of God, and to refresh our inner being. All are welcome to these meetings of any faith or none. Each meeting lasts about 45 minutes. The meeting starts with some simple relaxation exercises, a short passage from the Bible to reflect upon in the half hour of silence, followed by a time of sharing of our experiences if people wish. James

Fellowship Group Christmas Party December 8th

All welcome at 8 pm

The Bethany House Group

On Wednesdays at 76 Westmead, from 10.30-12.00, we are having four reflective studies: “The Advent Messiah”, adapted from words by David Winter and with music by Handel.  Please come! For more details please ring Su Viney (275461) or Jill Iredale (346488) or James.


Applying for a Grant from Hody’s Charity

This was founded by a rector of St Dunstan’s Church, Monks Risborough in 1706, and added to by his successor Dr Quarles. It provides grants for students in further or higher education or for apprentices who live in the parish or who are on the electoral roll. Applicant must be <21 at the time of their first application and <25 years old on receipt of the last grant. You can apply three times. This is the time of year for applications. Please call Rosemary if you would like to apply. 344417


Christmas Candlelight Concert, December 14th

The Chinnor Band will be performing a variety of seasonal music. Tickets £7 and include interval mince pie and drink. Tickets Rosemary 344417 or David Shuttle


Carol service readers, December 18th and 24th at 6pm

If you would like to volunteer to do a reading at one of these services please let me know. James


Carol Singing around the village, December 19th

Meeting at 6.30 pm at St. Dunstan’s everyone is invited to come carol singing around the village to help raise money for charity. Afterwards refreshments will be served. If you enjoy singing please come along – singers of all standards are welcome!


The Door Newspaper (December issue)

Look out for these stories:

Women Bishops: One step closer - The Oxford Diocesan Synod has voted in favour of the Church of England's proposals on women bishops.

Where there is no imagination, the people perish - The Revd Ernesto Lozada-Uzuriaga on the importance of imagination and creativity.

Coping with Christmas - advice for helping bereaved children and families over Christmas

Marking the New Year - As Advent marks the start of the new liturgical year, Helen Ann-Hartley writes about what makes Mark, the Gospel for the next 12 months, unique.

Plus win a copy of Helen's Making Sense of the Bible.


New choir director

I am delighted to announce that starting in the New Year we will be welcoming Diogo Cerdeira to the parish as choir director. We look forward to working with him as we build on the long standing musical tradition within the parish. He hopes to be able to come along to the service on Sunday 11th December to meet people. James


Monks Monkeys, Thursdays (term time), 2pm to 3pm

Praise and play for the under fives plus parents/carers in the church hall. Each session includes ‘action’ songs, an interactive Bible story and short prayers. There is also some time for the children to play, adults to chat and refreshments to be served. On the 4th Thursday of the month we meet in the Church for an additional special craft activity. No need to book, just turn up on the day. If you would like more information please contact: Rev James Tomkins (01844) 275944; Sarah Fairall (01844) 344164; Sue Ingram (01844) 275287; Debbie Norie (01844) 345437; Ann Myers (01494) 488479

The Next Couple of Weeks

Morning Prayer takes place on Monday (apart from Bank Holidays), Wednesday and Thursday at 8.45 at St. Dunstan’s

Sun 4th Dec	8.00 am  Holy Communion (BCP) 10.00 am  Christingle Service (No communion) 6.00 pm  Evensong
Mon 5th Dec	8.00 pm  Silent Prayer (church hall)
Thurs 8th Dec	9.30 am Holy Communion 2.00 pm Monks Monkeys 8.00 pm  Fellowship Group Christmas party
Sun 11th Dec	10.00 am  Parish Eucharist 11.30 am  Holy Communion, Owlswick             6.00 pm    Evensong
Mon 12th Dec	11.30 am Funeral service of Joan Pitcher
Wed 14th Dec	8.00 pm Concert (see notices)
Thurs 15th Dec	9.30 am Holy Communion 10.30 am School service 2.00 pm Monks Monkeys
Fri 16th Dec	9.30 am School service
Sat 17th Dec	Decoration of the church (am)
Sun 18th Dec	10.00 am  Parish Eucharist 3.00 am Carol service, Owlswick 6.00 pm  Nine lessons and Carols