Services you can now access via TV and online and a message from Rev Sonia Hicks

Sonia’s Space

Last week, the world looked so different – we had a Circuit Service to celebrate the work of Local Preachers in our midst at Windsor Methodist Church. I looked out at the worshippers as they shared The Peace with one another using sign language and it was beautiful and awe-inspiring. Because of the Coronavirus pandemic, we were not allowed to shake hands anymore but we adapted; we found another way.

I think about the Israelites as they fled from Egypt in the Bible. [Numbers Chapter 13] They were being led by a man whom God had called but who felt singularly overwhelmed by the task before him. Yet God was with them. It was God who provided manna from heaven. It was God who led them through the wilderness. God was there.

God is with us too. God is with us in our bewilderment, in our confusion, in our isolation. God is here. The same God who entered this world in the form of a small baby, is with us now. We are not alone. We are never isolated from His loving presence.

May His peace with you.

Sonia

Although Windsor Methodist Church is closed temporarily our love of God and community is still strong, if anyone needs help please contact your pastoral visitor - that’s what we are here for!

In the meantime take care of yourselves, keep in touch with one another and follow government advice.

There are services being broadcast this weekend see below for details:

BBC1 is broadcasting Sunday Worship at 11:45am tomorrow morning.

Songs of Praise at 1:15pm

Live-streamed services:

Wesley’s Chapel in London - Sunday 9.45 and 11.00.
Swan Bank Methodist Church in Burslem Sunday 10.30
Methodist Central Hall, Westminster Sunday 11.00

Dear Members and Friends,

We have received the following message from our minister, Rev. Sonia Hicks:

Following Methodist guidelines, the circuit and its churches will:

Hold no services or baptisms until further notice.

Continue to hold funerals BUT limited to immediate family only.

For weddings, please speak to your minister.

Sonia and the staff are working out a strategy to cater for the spiritual needs of the circuit.  Useful information is available on the Methodist website on this link:

https://www.methodist.org.uk/about-us/coronavirus-guidance/

It includes a worship from home service. I am attaching the one for Sunday, 22nd March.

This same page includes details of  live streamed services from Wesley’s Chapel with the relevant times and the youtube link.

Churches Together in England is calling for a national day of prayer on Sunday, 22nd March.

This includes lighting a candle and putting it in your window at 7 pm. This initiative is also being supported by Thy Kingdom Come. For further information, here is the link:

https://www.cte.org.uk/Articles/569010/Home/News/Latest_news/Light_a_candle.aspx?redirected=1

The Church is now CLOSED

Apart from the funeral this Thursday afternoon and following Government advice, Windsor Methodist Church is closed with immediate effect for the next 2 weeks. This means from Tuesday 17th March, there will be no services or group meetings of any kind.

Watch this space for further updates, thank you.

Saturday 25 January - Marriage & Relationships Consultation

Message from our Supt Minister, the Rev Sonia HIcks

“In light of the decision that Conference has made on the recommendations contained in the Marriage and Relationship Report it has been decided to hold three Consultations in this Circuit. There will be an opportunity to raise any questions and to discuss in a loving and non-threatening environment. Anyone can attend any of the Consultations. These will be held in the following places and times:

·         Saturday 11 January     1pm-4pm, Windsor Methodist Church

·         Saturday 25 January  10am–1pm, High Street Methodist Church, Maidenhead

·         Monday 10 February 2pm–5pm, St Andrews Methodist Church, Slough

Copies of the report and Study Guide have been ordered for each Church Council member and I would invite you to read the report before attending the Consultations. Any questions, please contact any member of staff.”

From the Circuit Meeting - Could you be a foster carer?

Foster care

There was a short presentation on Slough Foster Care at the Circuit meeting this week, and the need for foster carers in the 23-mile radius round Slough.

Children with many differing needs are taken into long- or short-term care, depending on their circumstances.  They come from different ethnic backgrounds, and many have multiple problems.  There are insufficient houses in Slough with a spare room.  The presenters were asking for us, with our contacts in our communities, to spread the word, perhaps by displaying a banner outside. Church Councils to check whether they can help.                                                                                                                                       

Foster carers have training and are supported and paid. The need is very urgent so if you do feel called to offer such a home and care for a child please see poster/leaflets at church.

 

Community Craft Coffee Morning

The next date for the craft morning is Saturday 14 September from 10.30 until 12.30.

Do come and join this friendly morning, try a new craft or enjoy homemade refreshments and a chat with friends. Craft activities for adults and children plus a fun toddler corner - something for everyone! Entrance is free just a donation towards refreshments and craft materials would be appreciated.

Successful Community Craft & Coffee Morning

Thanks to all those who came along to support the craft morning in aid of church funds. £60 was raised and a very friendly and enjoyable morning was had by all, beautiful crafted birds were made by adults and children. A big thank you to Marion for her inspirational craft ideas, can’t wait for the next one in September! Watch this space for the date.

Community Craft and Coffee Morning Next Saturday!

Next Saturday 13 July from 10.30 until 12.00, something for everyone…………..

Come and join the fun!

coffee/tea and homemade cakes  - relax and chat with friends 

craft activity for adults and children – come and try something different...?

play activities for toddlers

Everyone welcome  - no charge just a donation for refreshments towards church funds please.