Weekly Newsletter and Other News
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This page contains information about upcoming services and events and groups that we support. Please contact clare@standrewspsalterlane.org.uk or garethjones11@googlemail.com if there is anything you would like to see or to add, or anyone you would particularly like us to pray for. Weekly Newsletter Sunday 22nd May 2022 Because we are back in church for Sunday morning services, this Newsletter will be more like the Notices that we used to hand out each week, but will continue to be emailed instead of being printed to hand out in church. This will be better for us as an Eco-Church. There will be printed copies in church, but only for people who cannot receive the emailed newsletter. We aim to live-stream services from now on, for those people who aren't able to join us in church. We hope that the Newsletters have been useful while we could not join together in worship in church and have helped you to feel connected to the SAPLC worshipping community, and that you are enjoying the gradual return to normality. All contributions, serious or light-hearted, would be very welcome!
Sunday 22nd May 2022 6th Sunday of Easter
10.30 am Morning Worship Jenny Carpenter
Collect Risen Christ, by the lakeside you renewed your call to your disciples: help your Church to obey your command and draw the nations to the fire of your love, to the glory of God the Father.
Reading Jeremiah 22 v. 11-19 Hymns H&P 190 Christ is alive! Let Christians sing H&P 556 Pray for the Church, afflicted and oppressed StF 713 Show me how to stand for justice H&P 381 Forth in thy name, O Lord, I go
The service will also be live streamed - you will be able to watch it here from 10.30 am. There is a Junior Church Activity sheet available here.
3.00 pm Dementia Week Songs of Praise at St. Mark's Broomhill The choirs of St. Mark's Broomhill, St. Mary's Walkley and St. John's Ranmoor are combining to lead a Songs of Praise at St. Mark's at 3. 00 pm. The hymns have been chosen by dementia sufferers and their carers. All are welcome.
To ensure that you are as safe as possible in church, please observe the following rules: - Observe 2 metre social distancing from anyone outside your bubble and please keep your mask on at all times. - Please sanitise your hands as you enter. - Please do not linger in the Narthex, entrance to the main part of the church, the porch, or just outside the doors. - Please give your name to a Welcomer if asked or complete a card giving your contact details; we will inform you if anyone in church today tests positive for Covid-19. - Please notify us if you have a positive Covid-19 test within 2 weeks of being in church. - The toilets are all in use: Please use disinfectant wipes on all surfaces and handles after use, and use the wipe to open the door. It can then be disposed of in the bin provided. - We are now allowed to sing hymns, but please sing quietly, and from behind a mask. We may not be singing at every service.
NEXT SUNDAY Sunday 29th May 2022 7th Sunday of Easter
10.30 am Holy Communion Revd Gareth Jones
NEXT WEEK Monday 7.30 pm Riding Lights Theatre Company at Chapeltown Methodist Church - details in Notices section Wednesday 10.30 am Morning Prayer live in church and also on Zoom. The passage for study will be available on Dropbox at https://www.dropbox.com/sh/tcbtnjt8o1oixjp/AAAl7TtlZmeBZEWKn0Hc3kuSa?dl=0 The Zoom link, which is the same every week, is https://zoom.us/j/94587949802?pwd=cmg2UFlqNGtGcEJ2NWc5QngxYnRBQT09 Meeting ID: 945 8794 9802 Passcode: 336647 Thursday 7.00 pm Taizé Prayer for Ascension Day in church Saturday 6.30 pm Ceilidh to raise funds for Christian Aid - details in Notices section and poster in narthex
Crisis in Ukraine You can read here a report from Anne Hollows on a meeting about Ukraine at Sheffield Cathedral on 11th May
Ukraine Appeal All We Can and the Methodist Church in Britain have launched an emergency appeal in response to events unfolding in Ukraine. Sanctuary for Refugees Revd Inderjit Bhogal, past President of the Methodist Conference and recipient of the World Methodist Peace Award 2018 has written an article on Solidarity with Ukraine: Sanctuary for Refugees. In it he says: As Christians we are called to speak out for peace and support sanctuary. It is good to hear of churches around Britain, Ukraine and other countries offering space for prayer, and opening their doors to offer sanctuary. Every Church can be a Church of Sanctuary. You can read the full article here: Sanctuary for Ukraine Refugees
How you can stand in solidarity with people seeking sanctuary – a statement from Sheffield City of Sanctuary Sheffield City of Sanctuary stands in solidarity with Ukrainians and with civilians of other nationalities fleeing war”, says Magid Magid, Co-Chair of the Board of Trustees. Sheffield City of Sanctuary has been shocked and alarmed by Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine and appalled by its devastating effects on the lives of civilians in the country. We deplore the UK government’s weak response to welcoming those fleeing from this war. However, locally, we welcome the declaration from Sheffield Councillors Terry Fox, leader of the council, Douglas Johnson, leader of Sheffield Green Party, and Shaffaq Mohammed, leader of Liberal Democrats, which stated: “Sheffield is a city of sanctuary, we are proud of that fact and our city is open to those who need a safe place in their time of need. We call on our world leaders to do all that they can to ensure we all live in peace and we look forward to living in a more tolerant and respectful world.” Alongside our list here, the national branch of City of Sanctuary has put together a list of things we can all do to help refugees from Ukraine and indeed beyond (see here). As ever, we will continue to lobby any and all decision-makers willing to listen to foster a genuine culture of welcome for people seeking sanctuary. Our Co-Chair of City of Sanctuary Sheffield’s Board of Trustees, Magid Magid remarks: “This has to be a genuine moment of inflection and reflection. The tragedy unfolding in Ukraine invites us to demonstrate more than ever our solidarity with refugees. We owe it to refugees from Ukraine to help but we also owe it to refugees from other countries where conflict rages on, such as Yemen, Afghanistan, Sudan, Syria, or where tyrannical governments deny their citizens their most basic human rights to resist the culture of callous disregard. We also deplore the racist treatment of non-Ukrainians of colour, including Africans, Afghans, and Yemenis who have been facing discrimination while waiting in line at the border and while trying to access critical resources. We must stand together in our common humanity, help and protect all people fleeing from war and persecution. Our current government systematically fails to live up to this.” “We must use this moment to affirm that those who govern can and simply must do better”.
Christian Aid As you will have seen on the various news channels, more than half a million people have fled their homes to escape conflict in Ukraine. Leaving behind jobs, belongings and loved ones, they need shelter, food and water. It is predicted that 7.5 million people will be displaced. This would make it one of the biggest movements of people in Europe since World War II. Heavy fighting, shelling and air strikes across Ukraine have had devastating consequences. Lives have been lost and families torn apart. Homes have been destroyed, schools, health facilities, water and food supplies have been destroyed or damaged and many roads are blocked. If you're wondering what you can do to help, Christian Aid have three ways you can offer support. Go to https://www.christianaid.org.uk/appeals/emergencies/ukraine-crisis-appeal to donate, sign a petition to call on the government to help Ukrainian refugees, or join in prayer for the people of Ukraine – or better still, all three!NOTICES
Church spire The spire was surveyed using a cherry-picker on April 8th - you can see some slides from the day here. There is more damage to the spire than had previously been thought, and it will cost a lot more than expected to repair it! We will be applying for grants to cover some of the cost, but it is likely that we will have to ask for donations to raise funds as well - watch this space for more information!
SAPLC Charitable donations The list of church charitable donations will be reviewed shortly. If you have any recipients to suggest please contact Gareth - Tel. 0114 250 8251, email garethjones11@googlemail.com
Christian Aid Week 15-21 May 2022 Please return your envelopes to Caroline Cripps on Sunday 22nd May! If you did not receive an envelope through your door, you can put your donation in an envelope in church on the 22nd and hand it to Caroline. Christian Aid really needs our donations, there is terrible need in the world, and we are so lucky to live in a peaceful wealthy country – please show your gratitude by donating as generously as possible.
Walk to raise money for Christian Aid Week Mary and Eleanor Mitchell walked along Hadrian's Wall path (84 miles!) over eight days starting on Wednesday, 11th May. They have set up a JustGiving page to collect for this charity. If you wish to donate to Christian Aid this way then see here or speak to Mary in church on her return.
Ecclesiastical (Insurance) Movement for Good 2022 has started! And this year they have over £1 million to donate! The charity donation programme, Movement for Good is back - and this year there are even more opportunities for your favourite charity – it could be SAPLC! - to win a £1,000 donation. Getting your charity in the running is easy: Visit their website and nominate your chosen charity.
Action for Children Update In March, we launched a new campaign, 'Star in Every Child', which shines a light on the ways we can make a positive difference so that every child has the bright future they deserve. To learn more about it and how you can get involved:
Brighter Future Ahead?: Three-generational report into top challenges children face.To mark the launch of our 'Star in every child' campaign, Action for Children published a report exploring childhood across three generations. Ask the government to tackle the cost of living crisisFollowing cuts to Universal Credit, soaring energy bills and prices rising at their fastest rate in 30 years, low-income families are enduring a miserable time.
Riding Lights Theatre Company - Chapeltown Methodist Church, Monday 23 May The world-famous Riding Lights Theatre Company will be presenting My Place - somewhere to belong at Chapeltown for one night on Monday 23 May at 7.30pm. Due to last minute change of venue, ticket prices have been reduced to a minimum donation of £5, though they hope you'll pay the full price £8 or £10. Riding Lights is partnering with the charity Home for Good, which encourages people to open their homes and hearts to children and teenagers through adoption, fostering and supported lodgings. It also resources churches to be a welcoming and supportive community for all families who care for vulnerable children and advocate on their behalf at all levels of government. To book phone 07388 327 306 or email chapeltownmethodist1@gmail.com
A Ceilidh to raise funds for Christian Aid is to be held at Wesley Hall, Crookes, S10 1UD, on Saturday, 28th May 2022 from 6.30pm. Music by The Well Dressed band. Tickets can be reserved by contacting crookesceilidh@aol.com or 0114 268 0924. All are welcome.
Walking With Micah The Methodist Church Walking with Micah project aims to establish a new framework for the Church response to issues of Justice and Peace. Everyone is invited to take part in a local conversation about justice, and the feedback will help to influence what the Methodist Church does and says to tackle injustice. You can find a questionnaire to fill in here, or pick up a paper copy in church. Please return your completed copy by 29th May, either in church or by email to anne.hollows@gmail.comThe Methodist Church Walking with Micah project aims to establish a new framework for the Church response to issues of Justice and Peace.
Party at Pentecost at Highfield Trinity Church On Saturday 4th June, 10.00 am to 2.00 pm. See poster in narthex for further details.
District Celebration Service We are all invited to attend the Celebration Service which will be held on Sunday 12 June at 3pm in Central Methodist Church, Chesterfield. We will be rejoicing with the Revd Mark Carrick as he shares his testimony as part of his preparation for ordination at this year's Methodist Conference. Details on poster in narthex. It is hoped to be able to live-stream the service for those not able to attend in person. More details on this nearer the time. Mark was with us here at SAPLC doing his ministerial training from 2017-2019 - we wish him well.
Bishopscroft Garden Party Bishop Pete and Cathy invite you to a Garden Party with the theme of Creation Care, Eco Church and Upcycling Saturday 18th June 2-5pm Bishopscroft, Snaithing Lane, S10 3LG. Crafts, cakes, refreshments, plants etc. with all money raised going to Christian Aid and Refurnish Ltd - a charity committed to saving resources and enriching lives. See poster in narthex for further details.
SAPLC Summer Social Saturday 2nd July We are planning a mini Summer Fair (with a gift stall, a cake stall, a book stall, and light refreshments e.g. strawberries and cream and scones), on Saturday 2nd July – it will be so nice and refreshing to have a social and fundraising event like this, after the last couple of years! It will also be our official leaving do for Gareth, who as you know will be finishing his appointment here at the end of July. So please put this in your diary now - and perhaps pray for good weather!
Sheffield Diocesan Conference: Released to Shine, 4th July to 6th July 2022 The Diocesan Conference is to be held from 4 to 6 July 2022 at the Hayes Conference Centre in Swanwick, with both residential and non-residential places available. Booking is now open to clergy, active retired clergy and lay people (lay must be nominated by their parish (one per parish)). There are three ticket options:
For further details and how to book see here.
Foundations Course The Diocese is running a one-year Foundations Course for anyone wanting to think more deeply about what it means to be a follower of Christ and to explore serving the church and its local context. It is particularly designed for those who are not yet sure about where God might be leading them and into which area of service. If anyone is interested in thinking about this, please contact Gareth for further details. Information can also be found here.
Car Parking If you are parking at church, please take care not to park directly opposite the yellow lines marking the path towards Shirley House and Southcroft, as this blocks pedestrian access for people coming to church from Southcroft
Junior Church helpers Now that we have more children coming to church we could do with one or two more helpers/leaders for Junior Church. This probably only means a once a month commitment, and lessons and craft things will be prepared if you don’t feel that this is your particular gift. Do please speak to Imogen if you feel you could help. We will need to do DBS checks but please don’t let this put you off.
Calling all musicians!We are looking for people to join the SAPL band and play for Sunday2 services. Great expertise is not required and any instrument will be welcome! If you are interested in playing please speak to Mary Mitchell, John Booler or Imogen Clout after any service. Mary can be contacted by email on m.e.connor@sheffield.ac.uk if that is more convenient. A routine practice time before the Service has yet to be confirmed, but may be on the day of the service at 8.30am before breakfast begins. We also plan to arrange a meeting /play through of interested players well before the April Sunday2 service at a mutually convenient time.
All We Can Appeal Have you any spare change or coppers that are taking up room in your pocket or purse? If so, please bring them along on Sunday and put them in the All We Can bowl. Do the small things. Thank you.
Methodist podcast Have you discovered the weekly Methodist Podcast? Available here and on most audio streaming services. Half an hour of inspiring stories, emerging ideas and latest news from across our national church.
Sheffield Interfaith news Visit the Sheffield Interfaith website for news on what they are doing. Please also note this post about getting the Zoom links for their events.
Nether Edge Fair The Nether Edge Fair is a runaway success! With more than 195 stalls and over 5,000 visitors, it is THE place to buy presents and treats for yourself and others. Profits from the stall fees go to charity, so everyone wins! You can browse and shop here, and please spread the word to everyone you know and help local independent businesses. Jean Allen
Foodbank and Baby Basics Firvale Foodbank and Baby Basics are still desperately in need of help, so that they can help the most vulnerable members of society. If you are able to give anything, donations can be dropped off at the following addresses – why not combine donating with your legal daily exercise? Food Bank Donations can be left at the rear of 16 Edgehill Road, S7 1SP or in Church. Fir Vale continue to take referrals and just under 100 people are being supported. Food and cash donations are welcome. Food is especially welcome. The Food Bank particularly need pasta, rice, UHT milk, toiletries and toilet rolls, but are ever grateful for canned goods.
Elizabeth & Joe Dey were there last Sunday morning and they are really grateful for our support. They had a lovely warm welcome from Deacon Dave and Linda. At present: They have plenty of
They need
If you would like to give cash, you can donate here, or you can send a cheque made out to St Cuthbert’s (write Fir Vale Food Bank on the back) and send to Joe Dey at 16 Edgehill Road, S7 1SP, who will hand it over when he delivers to the Food Bank at St Cuthbert’s.
Baby Basics Gifts, especially nappies, toiletries and hand-knitted items (cardigans and jumpers for 2-5 year olds rather than babies if possible), and the following items for 2-5 years are always in short supply: pyjamas, underwear, socks, tights and warm trousers/jogging bottoms for boys and girls. Donations can be left in the basket at 51 Barkers Road, S7 1SD or in Church; cash donations should be put through the letter box. If Pat is away she will remove the basket from her front door step and she asks that items aren’t left at her door if the basket is not there. If you have something you can put through the letter box, that would be alright. The Facebook page also has information about donating via their Amazon wishlist. Donations can be left in the box at 51 Barkers Road, S7 1SD; cash donations should be put through the letter box. Pat would be able to collect donations if you cannot get them to her – telephone her on 2014881 if you would like to donate this way. You can also now donate online. We are grateful to all the very kind people who are taking these donations to where they are so desperately needed.
We need your help! 2021 was a tough year for us all, but for St Andrew’s Psalter Lane Church it was particularly tough financially. Our income dropped dramatically when we had to stop hiring out rooms in Shirley House due to the lockdown, but unfortunately our outgoings increased – our wonderful online services cost about five times as much to make as a ‘normal’ Sunday morning service would! There is also a lot of important repair work to be done on both the church and Shirley House, which will eat into our reserves even more. Many of you have been incredibly generous with your donations over this time but unfortunately we need to ask again – please give what you can to help us keep producing our online worship and keep our buildings in good repair. There is a variety of ways in which you can give – if you want to make a one-off donation, the easiest way may be to donate online here. You can also choose to give regularly on this page. Alternatively, you can pay money directly into the church bank account: Account name St Andrews Psalter Lane Sort code 05-08-08 Account number 36930499 OR send a cheque made out to St Andrews Psalter Lane Church to the Church Office, Shirley House, 31 Psalter Lane, Sheffield S11 8YL. You can find a Gift Aid declaration to fill in here, if needed. If you are able to, a regular donation makes it easier for us to budget our income and outgoings – please contact our Giving Secretary, Rodney Godber (rodney.godber@btinternet.com) to set up a Standing Order. The Envelope Scheme is another way to give regularly – see the separate notice in this newsletter for more information. Thank you in advance for your generosity!
Help Needed!
(Not necessarily an accurate representation of a Working Party!)
A message from John Cripps: 'Many thanks to all who came to help at the Working Party on Saturday 7th May, their work makes a great difference to the appearance of the church grounds, which we can all enjoy. The next Working Party will be on Saturday 4th June starting at 9.30 am. More volunteers would be very welcome!
The Green Box Calling all potential climate activists!
Our Eco Group presented 'An Introduction to Eco Church' Open morning last Saturday 14th May. It was for churches of any denomination interested in considering, getting started, or already involved in the Eco Church movement. We had already run the event in November last year, so we did not expect huge numbers, but we had some visitors, and we feel that if only one person came and found the answer to their question it is worthwhile, and we certainly did that (and for more than one!). Thanks to all who contributed, and all who visited.
Eco Tip We all want to care for the planet, but can’t do everything at once. Here is the next in a series of tips to think about. Some can be done today, some this month, and some will not be for you. But remember - everyone can do something! Slow down and save Drive at 60mph on the motorway and 50mph on main roads and save 10% on fuel and CO2e emissions. See the Eco Group page for more Green news!
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