Welcome to the August Edi-
tion of Yorsay.
Forgive me if a large amount
of the magazine has confer-
ence details in it but as it is
the Governing body of the
Church I feel it appropriate to
include press releases as well
as delegates thoughts.
Guide to some articles
Page 2 London Olympics/
Lord Malwhinney
Pages 3-7 Conference Re-
ports and News releases
Page 8 Synod Mileage
Page 9 Trevor Bettley
Page10 Sutton Fundraising
11-15 General information
Page 16 DIGITAL SWITCH-
OVER REMINDER
AUGUST 2011
David Perry was asked to provide some photographs for use in Sunday Worship at the Methodist
Conference in Southport. The brief was to come up with images to accompany the reading of
Colossians 1:15-20
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; for in him all things in heaven
and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or
powers—all things have been created through him and for him. He himself is before all things,
and in him all things hold together. He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning,
the firstborn from the dead, so that he might come to have first place in everything. For in him all
the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him God was pleased to reconcile to
himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross.
(NRSV)
What you have here is his artistic intepretation of this passage. As used in the Sunday morning
worship at Conference. He hopes the results are self-explanatory and provides no commentary as
none seems necessary.
The Full size version of these can be found http://www.visualtheology.blogspot.com/
Olympics 2012. CHURCHES ARE FREE to show BBC coverage of London 2012 on big screens with no
need for a special licence. That's the assurance from the BBC's Editor of 2012 live sites, Tim Plyming, 'so
long as the content is not changed or charged for'. The BBC is committed to making every event available
through digital technology. This also offers churches a way to serve those from other countries or with an
interest in specialised sports. As part of their commitment to encouraging big screens, the BBC is to
identify the likely 'golden moments' when people will want to share the experience. The Corporation is
also working with LOCOG, the Games organising committee, on a practical guide for those planning to
hold big screen events. 'We hope thousands of churches will seize the opportunity,' says Marty Woods
leader of More Than Gold's Festivals Team. 'They could run a series of events that put them at the heart
of the community.
News Release
05 July 2011
Lord Mawhinney fires up Methodists for the 2012 Olympics
Methodist Conference shows support for More Than Gold
The Rt Hon Lord Mawhinney Kt told the Methodist Conference that the 2012 Games will be a once in a lifetime opportunity for
Churches to engage in the largest logistical event in peacetime Britain.
Speaking at the Southport Theatre and Convention Centre today, the chairman of More Than Gold backed the Methodist
Church’s response to the Olympics and Paralympics. Lord Mawhinney said that next year will provide the single biggest
opportunity for people to see what Jesus can do in communities.
"The Olympics creates an opportunity for all of us in our communities,” said Lord Mawhinney, former cabinet minister and
current Honorary President of the Football League. “It will provide a once in a lifetime opportunity for churches, either
separately or together, to serve their local communities thereby witnessing to the power of the Christian Gospel. Next year this
country is going to be totally bombarded with sport. The choice is not complicated: either be part of it or barricade yourself off
from the rest of the country for a few months. And we don't do barricades as Christians. More Than God’s job is to inspire,
encourage and train church workers. We are facilitators. We are going to make it happen.”
Ish Lennox, Olympic and Paralympic Coordinator for the Methodist Church, is a member of the More Than Gold executive; the
umbrella group for Christian outreach during the Games. “Now is the time for churches to get involved in what’s happening,”
she said. “Churches need to appoint a Gold Champion to find out all the latest news and there are lots of resources out there
that can help. The Games are an exciting mission and discipleship opportunity that we cannot afford to miss. The Shetland
district is already engaged and they are the furthest from any of the Olympic venues – other districts can engage too as the
Games take place across the country.”
Gold Champions act as a link between More Than Gold and churches. They receive dedicated eNews updates and invitations
to briefings. People can sign up to become Gold Champions by emailing Games@methodistchurch.org.uk and find out about
resources via the More Than Gold resources website.
2
3
06 July 2011
New Methodist president and vice-president designate elected
The Revd Dr Mark Wakelin has been elected president designate of the Methodist
Conference for 2012-2013 and Mr Michael King has been elected vice-president designate. The results of
the elections were announced at the annual Methodist Conference in Southport
Dr Wakelin is described by his nominators as "an inspirational and energetic speaker who speaks directly to
people in ways which they can apply to their own lives and the Church." He brings to the role of President a
wide experience of circuit ministry, chaplaincy, youth work and strategic leadership. He was formerly the
national secretary of the Methodist Association of Youth Clubs and is currently Connexional Secretary for
Internal Relationships for the Methodist Church in Britain. He lives in Oakwood with his wife Judith and has
three children and three grandchildren.
“Now is a good time to be in the Methodist Church," Dr Wakelin. "We have a real opportunity to become a
more confident and effective discipleship movement again. We need to be brave, creative and more
focused on God’s loving purpose for us and our world. The presidency can help the Church find and catch a
vision that will play a part in God transforming Methodism for the next generation and of Methodism playing
its proper role in transforming our society and world.”
Michael King is a Methodist local preacher, church steward and former circuit steward in the Enfield
Methodist circuit. He has been leader of the Church's World Church Relationships team for 11 years, and is
chair of the European Commission on Mission. Prior to 2000 he spent most of his working life teaching is
Sierra Leone and UK comprehensive schools.
Mr King describes himself as 'glocal', with a passion for thinking globally and acting locally. He said: "I want
to see God's love shared with all people. I want to see Christians deepen their understanding of what it
means to welcome others, offering genuine hospitality and inclusion. I long to see our overseas partners
taking part and making decisions at all levels of church life in this country. I want to see our church enriched
and invigorated by people from all over the world."
Michael is married to Isabel, has two married children and a six-month-old grandson.
Dr Wakelin and Mr King, who both live in the Enfield Circuit, will be inducted as President and Vice-
President as the first items of business at the 2012 Methodist Conference in Plymouth.
Stephen Leah
Stephen Leah
Sue Pegg
Joint Ethical Investment Advisory Committee (JACEI)
This committee was set up in 1983 to advise the Church on the ethics of its many investments and how we can encourage
Corporate Responsibility. It reports to the Conference each year and its report in 2011 demonstrated the huge breadth and
importance of its work. Amongst the areas addressed this year were Armaments, trafficking of children, Caste Discrimination
and the extraction of Oil Sands. The Conference accepted the report overwhelmingly, but in the debate two other areas
reported on were discussed.
One was to congratulate JACEI on its ethical investment policy regarding Palestine/Israel and the criteria it will use to judge
whether to invest in companies that profit from Israel’s illegal activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. This policy has
been accepted by the Central Finance Board and amongst other things, will involve the CFB ensuring companies they invest in
have addressed human rights concerns and international law in their dealings. A concern was raised however, over its initial
implementation regarding Veolia which it has been suggested has been involved in several business dealings in the West Bank
including the building of light railway and bus services between illegal settlements. JACEI agreed that these were serious
concerns that needed to be addressed.
The other concern that was expressed was over Executive Pay on which JACEI has also done much work. How is it
reasonable that some companies pay their Executives 75 times what they pay their lowest rank workers? What are the ways in
which JACEI is engaging with companies to help them moderate these differentials?
THE METHODIST
CONFERENCE
SOUTHPORT 2011
Newsletter Prepared by Representatives from York and Hull District
Representatives
Revds Sue Pegg, Andy Lindley, Mark Haynes, Dr Stephen Leah, Mrs Kate Woolley, Mrs Tricia Mitchell, Mr William Swires and
Mrs Heather Shipman. All Chairs of District are members of Conference so our Chair Revd Stephen Burgess was also with us.
Southport is a very attractive place with a wonderful marina and an adjacent Conference Centre. York and Hull District
representatives were staying in a Premier Inn and just in case you think we had a lovely relaxing week I have to tell you it is
hard work during the Representative Sessions. A 9.00am – 7.00pm day in a Conference Hall even if the sun is shining outside,
but it is also good fun and fellowship and very exciting worship.
On Thursday, Conference meets in Ministerial Session and on the Friday they remember those who have died during the year
in a moving service. As Lay representatives we joined our colleagues for the Communion Service on the Friday afternoon. And
then it was into the weekend’s services and celebrations. We heard addresses from the new President and Vice President and
Sunday was devoted to the Reception into Full Connexion of the ordinands, and their ordination at various venues during the
afternoon. This year we were delighted to support Sally Coleman in her ordination in Liverpool Cathedral. Sally was also well
supported by friends and colleagues from the Snaith & Selby and Goole Circuits.
This very brief newsletter can only give you a flavour of some of the discussion at Conference. We will all be at Synod in
September with red badges on and will try to give you a further update on Conference matters. Please do contact us.
Heather Shipman
Epworth Press
One of the saddest decisions that were made during the Conference was to close the Epworth Press publishers. For over a
year, no new books have been published and the only sales have been from back-listed titles. A Review Group has been
meeting to discuss the future of the Epworth Press, and their initial hope was that it could be maintained as a going-concern
and assist with the deepening of discipleship and learning. However, it was also recognised that if this were to occur,
additional investment would be needed.
It was initially hoped that a strategic alliance with a third party publisher might be the way forward, however, during this year,
this was tried but without success. As a result, Conference decided that keeping the publisher going was not its priority, so it
reluctantly took the decision to close Epworth Press.
Faith and Order – Re-affirmation of baptism vows?
Conference agenda included a suggestion from the Faith and Order Committee that a liturgical rite using water for the re-
affirmation of Baptism vows could be useful. This was particularly in the case of those who were Baptised as babies and then
later, as adults, had a conversion or renewal of faith experience. There were several speakers in the debate including one who
made the further suggestion that a rite could also be useful in some pastoral situations. These included babies born
prematurely and baptised in hospital sometimes without their families present and also in the case of older adopted children.
Conference gave permission for the rite to be written and the Faith and Order Committee will seek approval of it at next year’s
Conference
Youth
One more year to await the review of the Youth Participation Strategy, but already three of the 16-23 year olds employed thus
far are now pursuing vocations in the church. It was also clear to see that the Youth Assembly, which has now replaced
‘Breakout’, is a huge success and continues to develop confident and talented young leaders. What is also clear is our young
people want action, not just reflection, unlike much of our proceedings, which often leaves Conference off balance. This year
youth assembly asked us to support the simple idea, that sport shouldn’t be a distraction from church, but a part of what we do
as Church. It sounds simple, but you’d be surprised at the arguments! They reminded us again that our worship leader
4
Andy Lindley
Andy Lindley
Tricia Mitchell
training isn’t good enough…we wait for 2012 for that to deliver! Finally they wish us all to respond better to those with mental
health and drug issues…no easy task, but absolutely right as usual!
Statistics for Mission
This year Conference was also given the opportunity to divide up in order to address several topics in more depth, and perhaps
surprisingly, one of the most popular and exciting sessions was Statistics for Mission. Each year we send off our October
figures, details on ceremonies and church groups, but until this year all we’ve had back is tables. This year we’ve seen the start
of something new – statistics visualised for mission, not just tables, but graphs and maps. Our data, not just presented back to
us, but against a backdrop of census data, from population density to deprivation, in order that we might ask the simple question
– is our mission focussed in the right place! Normal non-geeky people were heard to say it was ‘sexy’ and ‘exciting’. Watch this
space - more developments to come! See www.methodist.org.uk for the present offerings.
President Designate - Revd Dr Mark Wakelin
Vice President Designate - Mr Michael King
What is worth More Than Gold?
Are you an armchair sportsperson? Did you miss out on tickets for the Olympics? Are the Olympics only really of concern to
those living near London, or with a particular interest in sports? At Conference we were inspired by Lord Mawhinney and invited
to take another look at the opportunities the London Olympics offers to Churches. More than Gold was set up to help Churches
to use the Olympic Games as a means to engage with local communities and to share God’s love beyond our Churches.
What can we do? As Olympic fever sweeps the nation we need to be ready to link in. From Easter onwards Children’s holiday
clubs and sports events might link to the Olympic theme. A big screen could be a community focal point to come and share the
games together. Churches could organise sports events of all sorts for their community linking to the Olympic enthusiasm –
from athletics and football to table tennis, bowls or beetle drives. How about a quiz with a range of questions but a sports
theme? Whatever the event Churches can reach out through hospitality and friendship and touch the lives of our communities.
The More Than Gold team offer advice and ideas so please look at their website: www.morethangold.org.uk. Think of the
impact we can make if every church reaches out just once during the Olympics and Para-Olympics in 2012.
The Theology of Pastoral Care
Revd Leo Osborn’s theme throughout his Presidential year will be “Pastoral Care as Disciples of Jesus”. The Statement on the
Theology of Pastoral Care engages with the scriptures and current practical issues. It identifies caring as being the fundamental
spirituality where loving attention focuses on humbly serving others. It characterises Christian care as disciples of Jesus
prayerfully working together, each contributing particular gifts and experience, to enable others to flourish, always being
sensitive and respectful to other lifestyles and faiths and engaging with individuals and groups. The statement recognises that
much can be learned about caring from dialogue with external organisations that deliver care. Whilst every Christian has a
ministry of pastoral care it is the lay and ordained leaders and pastoral visitors who share the responsibility for encouraging care
and discerning best pastoral practice. The statement emphasises the importance of good listening and the sharing of personal
testimony in releasing possibilities for mutual support and bridge building between church and society. Pastoral conversations
are just as likely to begin in the coffee shop or walking the dog as in a formal pastoral visit which often only happens when an
emergency arises. The President expressed concern that the Church does not always live up to its high calling and that many
still feel uncared for. The Conference therefore directs that further work is done to support the various pastoral ministries and
that the statement is discussed in local meetings for further comment.
Kate Woolley
Contemporary Methodism: a discipleship movement shaped for mission The General Secretary’s Report 2011
Revd Dr Martyn Atkins presented his Report to Conference.
He says, ‘I share with many Methodist people a desire to grow in Christian hope, passion and witness and kingdom focus – a
more effective vessel for use by a missionary God and that includes, ‘turnaround’. I believe God has made our direction of travel
clear, to be the best we can.’
The report states that there is always a fertile period for making hard choices which must not be missed rather than wait until
resources and energy to implement them are no longer available. This means permitting God to reshape and renew us, and
travelling with God. Faith means that we trust God for our very life as a Church, in profoundly real and concrete ways.
Patterns of ministry: discipleship and mission
A key theme is that ‘the ministry of the whole people of God’ must increasingly shape the way in which we actually use and
prioritise our resources.
•The size of many new Circuits and the changes this will bring about suggests that ‘pastoral charge’ is also necessarily
‘missional charge’.
•Greater team building, collaborative working and multiple partnerships are indispensible often requiring dedicated
training for new ministries discerned.
•Circuit ministry/leadership teams must take seriously the commitment to be outward-facing, world transforming,
beginning in their own locality - resulting in a host of healthy ministries, projects and initiatives.
•Greater investments in small group leadership - to discern, identify, train and help those so called.
•Seeking to respond positively to the insights and challenges posed by the ‘Missing Generation’ report including
children and young people.
•A review of Local Preacher learning, training and continuing development is integrated into the wider challenges and
opportunities of the project, Fruitful Field. This also includes Worship Leaders and one of the questions the report asks
is, ‘How can both these lay ministries best relate to each other, presbyters and deacons in leading worship?’
5
William Swires
God’s ‘worthship’ and our worship
Worship is everything that the Church offers to God in response to God’s love: its ‘wonder, love and praise’ and therefore its
ministries, property and resources – all is an offering to God.
God’s properties and our stewardship: resources of discipleship and mission
An overall roll call of 582,000 people
About 8500 local preachers (active and sat down)
Active presbyters – 1750
Active deacons 125
There are in excess of 5200 church properties
We are at our best when we regard our ‘plant’ as resources for God’s mission rather than an inheritance to be preserved at all
costs. We need to consider the sacrificial, strategic approach – ‘What kind of space do we need to be the discipleship, missional
movement God wants us to be?’
A fluid’ mixed economy’
Many fresh expressions of Church and new communities are emerging and new patterns of ministry and new policies regarding
our premises must be enabled to grow and flourish. Ministry and property are the two main factors in finance and challenges us
‘to change a mind set,’ that we use our giving, budgeting and spending to prioritise what we feel God is calling us to become.
Evangelism….making more disciples of Jesus Christ
Of the Regrouping for Mission initiative. Martyn goes on to say, ’We Methodists openly acknowledge that making new disciples
in ‘appropriate’ and ‘apt’ ways is what we feel least good and confident at.’ He then asks some ‘outcome’ questions: what do I
expect to happen? What will the person who says ‘yes’ to Jesus be expected to become like? A Christian discipleship
movement inevitably includes a commitment to making new disciples of Christ, and as the weakest ‘health indicator’ throughout
the Connexion we are being urged to make this a key priority.
The Ministries Committee, Faith and Order Committee and Methodist Council were directed by Conference to establish working
groups to report on several of these sections and the issues raised in them and to report back to Conference as soon as
possible.
Throughout Conference a highly significant number of speakers and presenters referred to this report. Conference commends
the report and its emphasis on the Methodist Church as a ‘discipleship movement shaped for mission’ to the whole connexion
for study, response and action.
The Fruitful Field
I’m not sure how many people would rush to read a report on training, even if it is called “The Fruitful Field project”. The name of
this interim report comes from a series of resolutions from 1820, but its impact will be felt in the future, and the implications
could be far reaching. The Higher Education Sector is currently going through tumultuous change, and not only as a result of
Lord Browne’s report on funding and student finance. This will inevitably affect initial training in all denominations. The
uncertainties that must be felt in all the training institutions should not be forgotten, decisions need to be made by conference
2012.
The Methodist Church is also in a period of change, and as the church positions itself to become much more a “discipleship
movement shaped for mission” the use of training resources needs better to reflect what we seek to be and do. We are
encouraged to use our resources “to facilitate what we feel God is calling us to become rather than adopting a default position
of sustaining what we have”. The greater part of the church’s training budget has previously been used to equip and sustain
presbyters and deacons. In the future as we seek to rediscover the ministry of the whole people of God, as more diverse
ministry teams are explored, decisions will need to be taken about the training and budgetary implications.
“A healthy Connexion is consequently a community of learning where every disciple is learning about their faith and telling the
story of the faith, where every minister is an educator and a reflective learner, and where every Circuit is a learning Circuit”.
Mark Haynes
The Big Society/Of Equal Value: Poverty and inequality
These two reports belong together. The former begins by asking “What is the Big Society and how could churches respond?”. It
is a balanced report which outlines some of the main strands and components of the Big Society. There are critiques of the Big
Society and then some church responses to it, from the enthusiastic to the cynical. The report quotes Archbishop Rowan
Williams “two and half cheers for the Big Society”. In its conclusion the report states that Methodists will have a range of
responses to the Big Society; that it is right that the church encourages people to engage with critiques of the Big Society and
that we should beware of being seen to collude with a politically divisive agenda. “It is possible to remain critical whilst seeking
ways in which the church can be a good neighbour to people in need and to challenge injustice”
Of Equal Value: Poverty and Inequality is filled with the results of much research. There is the necessary theological
underpinning and a reminder that “concern for the poor has been central to the message and ministry of the Christian Church”.
Also that there is a gospel bias to the poor and the marginalized.
Over 9 million adults in the UK rely on state benefits as their major source of income; of the £156bn spent by the Department of
Work and Pensions each year approximately 60% is accounted for by payments to people of state pension age, 13% by
payments to disabled people and only 2% for those who are unemployed.
There are many hurdles for people living in low income families if they are to move out of low income, money alone is not
sufficient. Poverty affects health and life expectancy. The poor are often misrepresented eg portrayed as scroungers. However
the government estimates benefit fraud to be £1.6bn per year while it estimates underpayment to those who qualify but do not
claim to be £16.8bn.
There are many practical and campaigning responses to poverty and inequality by churches: Credit unions; Faith in Affordable
Housing; Christians against Poverty; homelessness projects; the Church of Scotland’s Priority Areas programme and its church
twinning programme.
At the end of the report there are a number of recommendations including a commitment to a fair tax system where all income
groups share fairly the tax burden. The report calls upon the Methodist people to consider how best they may play their part in
bringing this about be it by prayer, charity, social action or political action. The website of the Joint Public Issues Team contains
6
Mark Haynes
many stories in written and video format in part a response to the Methodist councils call to listen to and tell the real stories of
those who struggle on low incomes.
We have agreed to support the Robin Hood tax. What is it? Ask your representatives or look at the report
Other Reports
Reports were also brought to Conference on: Safeguarding, Methodist Heritage, Missing Generation Research Project, Youth
Presidency and the Youth Assembly
Supporting Ministers who experience ill health, Moving Forward in Covenant (more locally enabled opportunities agreed by
Conference), Ministerial Development Review (approved in the format we have looked at) as well as those which are required at
all Methodist Conferences
Leading and Presiding : Developing the Presidency
No change. Conference rejected the suggested change of title for the Vice President to Co-President. Well, at least we have
talked about it!
Please remember that any of your Conference Representatives will be very happy to answer your questions or assist in any
way in bringing the work of Conference to the attention of Circuits and Churches.
Heather Shipman
CONFERENCE ROUND UP PRESS RELEASE
The 2011 Methodist Conference has drawn to a close in Southport after six days of prayer, worship and debate. The annual
Conference is the governing body of the Church and meets in difference venues each year.
More people than ever before followed the events and business of the Conference, with live video from the debates streamed over the
internet on the Methodist Conference website. At its peak, 180 people tuned in to watch the proceedings. Conference members and
guests, as well as those watching the live feed, were encouraged to use Twitter and Facebook to comment on debates and keep up to
date with the action. The Conference hashtag on Twitter (#methconf) was used every 14 seconds on average at its peak on July 6,
with 540,805 impressions (views) created and #methconf tweets reaching 58,303. During the week of the Conference, the Methodist
Media Facebook page was viewed over 9,500 times.
Toby Scott, Director of Communications, said: “I’m delighted that so many people were able to participate online, whether they were in
Southport or not. We have been using social media and live broadcast to share the Conference with the world for a few years, but this
year it all came together beautifully. The heart of Methodist Conference is in being together: praying, worshipping, celebrating and in
deliberating on important issues. But through online media we have helped share that worldwide. This only worked because so many
people got involved, both those in the office and the hundreds of others contributing online. There’s something wonderfully Methodist
about the whole experience – being and staying connected with each other wherever we may be.”
The Conference debated major reports on the Big Society, poverty and inequality, climate change and the Anglican-Methodist
Covenant . The Conference also elected a new President and Vice-President Designate for 2012/13, the Revd Dr Mark Wakelin and
Mr Michael King , who will be inducted as the first items of Conference business at Plymouth in 2012.
Conference representatives also expressed their deep gratitude to the Revd Kenneth Howcroft, who is stepping down from his role as
Assistant Secretary to the Conference to work as a presbyter at the Ponte St Angelo church in Rome and as Methodist Representative
in Rome. Mr Howcroft been Assistant Secretary to the Conference for seven years and will be succeeded by the Revd Gareth Powell.
Final Week~End
Travelled north again to spend time in the Malton Circuit. It was good to be able to be with them for the
evening of music and to rejoice at the talent available for their celebration. It was also fun to catch up with
friends from College days!
We shared in the 200th Anniversary on the Sunday morning, reflecting on the Fruit of the Spirit, and God's
desire to grow all that the Spirit offers in us. We gave thanks for all that our forebears had offered in
service and witness and committed ourselves again to what God has planned for the future.
Then a celebration meal; a visit I had promised to make while I was in the north; and home to finalise all
that is needed for Conference and the new President and Vice President.
Thank you for all your prayers which have sustained us during this year, and for the prayers that are
already supporting Leo and Ruth as they too follow God's leading.
Posted by Alison Tomlin at 16:15 27th June 2011
[Alison Tomlin’s final Presidential Blog of her year in Office]
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by fastest
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38
39
33
42
28
18
28
52
36
23
16
27
31
30
17
23
12
10
28
37
40
Miles
recommended route
38 mins
1hr 07 mins
1hr 01 mins
54 mins
1hr 08 mins
49 mins
33 mins
52 mins
1hr 33 mins
1hr 05 mins
39 mins
31 mins
46 mins
54 mins
45 mins
32 mins
40 mins
19 mins
18 mins
49 mins
1hr 03 mins
1hr 08 mins
Time
Representative Synod, 10 September 2011
to be held at Norton College Malton YO17 9PT
Please Note that parking at the College is limited and an overflow car park has been arranged at St Peter's Church House Langton Road
Norton YO17 9AE [shown on map on the web site]
Mileage to Synod
FROM
York
Hull
Snaith
Selby
Goole
Beverley
Driffield
Bridlington
Withernsea
Hornsea
Filey
Pocklington
Mkt Weighton
Whitby
Tadcaster
Helmsley
Scarborough
Sherburn
Pickering
Thirsk
Northallerton
Ripon
Mileage and times are approximate and supplied via Google mapping taking the the fastest route which may not be
the shortest .
8
25/6/45 – 30/6/11
PO BOX 1070, Cambridge, CB22 4WX
Call 01223 832671
Visit www.speakingvolumes.org.uk
e-mail info@speakingvolumes.org.uk
TREVOR BETTLEY
.
Trevor Bettley was born in West Hull on June 25th 1945 and passed away in East Hull on June 30th 2011, aged 66. He was an only child
but a much loved husband for Margaret – with whom he celebrated his Ruby wedding last year, proud father of Mark; Andrew and Tim, a
special granddad for Stephanie & Tyler and a much missed in law; cousin; uncle AND Christian friend.
Having left Hymers school with 10 ‘O’ levels Trevor spent all his life working as a Accountant in Hull for Hodgson Harris / Impey and then
Gray’s, retiring only last year. He was a man of many hobbies with football being his main one, notably Hull City but best known for his 20
years spent refereeing around East Yorkshire.
But it is for his great faith that Trevor will be remembered. From his early life at ‘Plain Street’ Methodist to his latter years at Sutton
Methodist, Trevor has been a true Disciple of his Lord. Yes he has done many jobs within our Churches at local; Circuit and D istrict Level
– not least Hull International House and the Church & Society committee but for Trevor working for the Church was always second to
working for Jesus.
He had a passion for working with children and young people – in many groups and lots of way – because he wanted them to meet the
Jesus that he knew personally. Trevor was a regular at Easter People, being much inspired by the ministry of Rob Frost and his faith grew
through regular sharing in house groups and prayer meetings.
Trevor, though in some ways a traditional man, loved new songs especially the ones written by Noel Richards and his signature song was
‘My Jesus; My Saviour’. The highlight of Trevor’s year was Easter Sunday when Trevor would help carry the transformed Easter Cross
outside Sutton Methodist Church singing Thine Be The Glory.
It was my privilege to be with the family as Trevor made that peaceful journey from this world to the better place Trevor lived his life for,
knowing without a shadow of a doubt that “in the Splendour of the King {even in sickness and death} HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD”.
May all who were blessed by Trevor’s presence reflect on his witness and continue to offer love and support to his family as we say ‘God
Bless You Trevor, thou good and faithful servant and witness.
Rev. Keith.
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Libraries have responded extremely positively to receiving a copy of the
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became apparent that giving Christian books to libraries is still as relevant
and necessary as ever.
One library commented that ‘donating Christian books to Libraries is a wonderful idea,
giving hope to our society through uplifting literature is certainly very welcome in the currently prevailing atmosphere’.
‘Christians all too readily perceive that a gift of Christian books would not be welcome by their local library but this response
blows that myth apart!’ Commented Paula Renouf, Director of Speaking Volumes.
To find out how your Church can make a gift of books to your library or school please go online at
www.speakingvolumes.org.uk or request a catalogue from info@speakingvolumes.org.uk or by telephoning 01223832671.
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£ 900 raised in Sutton to help Christian Orphange in Africa.
Malet Lambert school were delighted to receive a cheque for £900 from year 11 pupil Jessica Brownlee . Jessica was part of a group of
pupils and staff who visited the orphanage whilst on an educational visit to South Africa in 2010. .
That visit so inspired Jessica that she and her friends at Sutton
Methodist Church set together raising money for it. With the Hot
Chocolate Sunday morning group and our Youth Group, Jessica
encouraged us to hold a pancake evening; sell breakfasts after
morning worship; make donations from mum’s and toddlers as well
as use images from the orphanage in worship services.
Miss Dyer, the head teacher, was delighted to see how Christians in
Sutton have responded to the needs of those less fortunate and is
proud her school helped inspire such generosity.
Rev Keith Borwick.
The following email from the school explain more about the trip and the orphanage (it comes from one of the teacher who ran the trip).
Hi Keith,
The orphanage we visited is just outside Livingstone on the road to Zambia. It has a website and the link is:
http://www.ebenezerchildcare.org/about.htm
The trip was organised by Ashley Chapman, a science teacher at Malet Lambert School. We spent almost two weeks in southern Africa, landing
in Johannesburg, and then touring in two minibuses, through Botswana, going as far north as Victoria falls before returning to Joburg to fly home.
We camped all the way and had had many memorable experiences. The wildlife was amazing, seeing Elephants and Rhinos from just a few feet
as well as crocodiles, wildebeest and giraffe. We visited an area known as the cradle of mankind where some of the earliest known examples of
hominid fossils have been found. It certainly made us think about who we are and where we have come from.
However, visiting the Ebenezer Orphanage was undoubtedly one of the most moving experiences. All the orphans have been rescued off the
streets by Ranji Chara. The website explains how she had a vision, and that this experience was the driving force behind her work. When we
arrived all the orphans sang songs for us and danced for us. They were so open and friendly that many of the party were a little taken aback.
They ranged in ages from about 6-7 up to 16. They showed us around where they lived and many of our pupils started to realise just how
fortunate they were living in England. The accommodation was clean and well looked after but it was 4 to a room and each had an area for
personal possessions no bigger the 2 foot square. Each orphan had a teddy on their bed. All the pupils receive an education for free. This
includes English and Maths and has a formal curriculum structure so they leave with useful qualifications. They are also taught practical skills,
based around making African objects that tourists would want to buy. We all bought many little presents. I bought a model crocodile for my son
that was made from copper wire that was twisted round and round and is really quite beautiful.
We then had some healthy competition with our boys challenging their boys to a football match (we lost even though they played bare foot!). The
girls had a rounders match which we also lost.
What was particularly touching was, despite the rotten start to life the orphans had experienced, they were joyful, friendly, and had all developed a
firm faith that allowed them to see the positive futures they could have.
It was very hard to leave as many friendships had been made. I remember seeing the tears welling up in Jess’s eyes as she tried to say goodbye
and the orphans just kept hold of her hands.
All of this through the exceptional determination and courage of Ranji, who was an inspirational lady.
Regards
Gary Taylor Deputy Head teacher Malet Lambert School Kingston-upon-Hull
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'And why is everyone so quiet,
So sombre - give me a clue.'
'they're all in shock.
No one thought they'd be seeing you.'
JUDGE NOT!!
Remember...Just going to church doesn't make you a
Christian any more than standing in your garage makes you a car.
Every saint has a PAST...
Now it's your turn... Share this poem.
Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil...
[Poem of unknown source [to me] sent in by one of our readers.]
For local church or news:
On Saturday 1st October, the eve of the Conservative Party Conference, supporters from around the UK will be joining Christian
Aid, Cafod and Tearfund in Manchester for a day of learning, campaigning and worship on the issues of climate change and
global poverty.
Speakers from around the world will come together to discuss global issues with a focus on the damaging effects of climate
change on the world’s poorest communities. They will include former president of the South African Council of Chuches, activist
and theologian, Prof. Tinyiko Maluleke, who will speak on how the global church and Christians can lead action on climate
change.
After the speakers and a special ecumenical service in the Anglican Cathedral, attendees will form a procession to the conference
centre, where the Conservative Party Conference will be taking place, and will hold a candlelit vigil to pray for the government not
to forget the world’s poor during its conference.
By taking a stand in Manchester on this day, organisers and supporters hope to remind the Conservatives of David Cameron’s
promise to be the ‘greenest government ever’. The world’s poorest and most vulnerable people are already suffering the impacts
of climate change and are being hit first and hardest, despite doing the least to cause the problem. Now is the time to reflect on
what the government has achieved so far, but also to remind them of their pledge and encourage them to do more to help these
communities.
If you would like to join the ‘Bearing Witness’ event, or you would like further information, you can register at
www.christianaid.org.uk/bearingwitness or call the Christian Aid’s Yorkshire office on 0113 244 4764.
BEST POEM IN THE WORLD
I was shocked, confused, bewildered
As I entered Heaven's door,
Not by the beauty of it all,
Nor the lights or its decor.
'Hush, child,' He said,
But it was the folks in Heaven
Who made me sputter and gasp--
The thieves, the liars, the sinners,
The alcoholics and the trash.
There stood the kid from seventh grade
Who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbour
Who never said anything nice.
Every sinner has a FUTURE!
Bob, who I always thought
Was rotting away in hell,
Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
Looking incredibly well.
It has no point!
I nudged Jesus, 'What's the deal?
I would love to hear Your take.
How'd all these sinners get up here?
God must've made a mistake.
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Our Boys Brigade (boys and girls) has more than doubled in number at St Johns Methodist Market Weighton over the last three y ears
and now has over 60 members – young people from 5yrs to 18yrs .
Last week two of our youngsters, Sam and Stacey were presented with their Queens Awards (the highest awards attainable) for
services to the community, service to the Company, and other skills. The ceremony took place in the Town Hall in Sheffield and the
awards were presented by the Queens Lord Lieutenant and the Lord Mayor of Sheffield. Three other young people have also qualified
for the same award and will be presented with theirs later in the year.
Sue Pegg
Hi everyone,
Many of you will be aware that I am part of the team that organised ECG (Equipping Calling Going) which grew out of Easter People,
but which has a greater emphasis on outreach, helping in the town etc. ECG haas been in Llandudno for the last 5 years, and we were
due to go to Southport in 2012. This venue has had to be changed, and I have been asked to forward the attached letter to explain.
ECG will now be held in SCARBOROUGH for 2 years, and we will be contacting you shortly to see how the churches can be involved.
PLEASE ANNOUNCE THIS CHANGE OF VENUE IN YOUR CHURCHES - as some people are now booking for Southport.
Thanks,
Ruth Dale
www.ecgevent.org.uk
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We are delighted to have added another Hotel to the Epworth Group of Methodist Holiday Hotels Ltd. which has been refurbished and
re-opened recently.
Formerly known as the Divan Hotel, we have a new name of the WHITE HORSE
LODGE HOTEL taken from the nearby "White Horse " at Kilburn.
The Hotel is on the main A171 just over a mile out of Thirsk, in 'Herriott Country,
located in beautiful countryside and the ideal base for exploring The North Yorkshire National Park,
Dales, Ryedale and the many Heritage sites and attractions close by.
The 14 bedrooms include a family suite for up to 2 adults and 3 children, and both twin and double rooms.
There is a large car park, garden, lounge bar with TV and restaurant with a menu catering for all tastes - drinks, snacks and of course
coffee and cakes are available all day.
Rates are based on Bed and Breakfast for a twin/double room with the flexibility
of dining in the Restaurant for a full meal or light bite,
& special opening including 2 centre breaks with Raven Hall [http://
www.ravenhall.co.uk/ ] our
award winning Country
House Hotel in Ravenscar.
We are very excited about
this new business and
delighted to invest in the
Yorkshire Region.
For further information http://www.whitehorselodgehotel.co.uk/
Or telephone 01845 522293 or e mail :enquiries@whitehorselodgehotel.co.uk
Norton Bethel Methodist Church
Commercial Street, Norton. Malton. North Yorkshire. YO17 9HY
1864-2011
Sankey Evening
Friday 12th August
7.30pm
Praise & Worship from the Sankey Hymnal
Items by;
The Mens Choir. The Ladies Choir. Bethel Singers.
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Bilsdale Moor Transmitter not due to switchover
until 2012
Yorsay is sent on behalf of the York & Hull Methodist District by the Communications Office
Bob Lawe 27 Ryde Avenue Hull Hu5 1QA yhcommunications@msn.com
Please note that some of you may receive this and other mailings from a Karoo e mail address – Please do not reply
or use this address as it is for mail delivery only The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily the offi-
cial views of the Methodist Church or of the York & Hull Methodist District and no inferred support for any of the
items or organisations should be taken as granted. Yorsay Newsletter © 2011 York & Hull Methodist District – All
rights reserved.
Publication deadline for next month Yorsay is 20th of the Month
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