Latest News From The Benefice
Lent Course
The Benefice of Chelsfield with Green Street Green and Pratts Bottom. This year we are offering the chance to gather to look at the six week study course by Paula Gooder “The Joy of the Gospel”. This is based on Pope Francis’ much acclaimed reflections on mission and evangelism, published as Evangelii Gaudium (‘The Joy of the Gospel’). Widely recognised as offering wisdom and vision for all Christians in a culture that is often hostile to the church, Evangelii Gaudium offers a positive and realistic approach to sharing faith in the modern world. Paula Gooder introduces its key themes to readers in all denominations and challenges them to consider its application in their own contexts. We will meet over six weeks on Tuesday evenings beginning on Tuesday 17 February 7.30-9.00pm (including coffee) at St Mary’s. If you wish to purchase a copy the book is currently available on Amazon Kindle for £6.49 or in paperback at various suppliers including Blackwells.co.uk and Amazon. We look forward to sharing together in this way.
Rev Susan
Lent Charity Appeal
This year we are supporting Dovetail Two (www.dovetailtwo.org), a very local organisation, which meets on Fridays, between 10-14.30, in Pratts Bottom Village Hall. It’s a self funded social club for the physically disabled, from 25 and upwards. Run by disabled people, it provides a wide range of fun and safe activities, including games, speakers and chair exercises. Like all good clubs, a meal is also involved. Dovetail Two focuses on providing a supportive and engaging community space for its members, emphasising both social interaction and well-being through its diverse activities.They always welcome visitors, and like so many organisations, really need more helpers. Jam jar collections will be available from Sunday 15th February in church.
Rev Michael writes
We were made welcome as soon as we arrived and that kindness has been shown throughout our time here. I hope we have touched the lives of many whilst we have been here and we have lots of happy memories. We are excited for our move and know that there are plenty of new challenges ahead. Thank you also to all those who came to my farewell Service on 18th January. It was good to see people from the churches and the community and I hope you enjoyed the wonderful lunch provided. Thank you also for the generous gift of a new Vestment Carrier and money to spend, which will help with our new home. We are not moving out of the Rectory for a few more weeks so we may well see some of you around.
As I prepare to leave the Rectory, it is a good time to write and say thank you to the congregations of Chelsfield, Green Street Green, Pratts Bottom and Well Hill. Sue, Anna,
Suzzie and I have thoroughly enjoyed our four and a half years with you all. I pray that the Benefice will continue to grow together in the coming months and years and I also give thanks for my time being able to serve you all in mission and ministry. With love and best wishes
Michael