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Easter 2013 Easter Sunday visitors share some excellent news!... Our sunday school session was interrupted this week by some very special visitors from afar. Peter (the fisherman), Mary Magdalene and Maximus the Roman guard at the tomb shared some startling news. They'd just visited the grave of Jesus to find Him risen from the dead!! Peter told us he had ran at the news, Mary had wept with joy and poor old Maximus had, at the sight of an angel, promptly fainted! The children enjoyed hearing from the visitors and asked their own questions of them, a few even tried some of Peter's disgusting fish guts (also known as strawberry laces) which he found in his pocket. Thanks go to our Galilean news team (our 11-18's Pacers group) who brought us the important news and weather updates during the service. Good Friday walking, walks and more walking... Good Friday began as we joined Newport's other church's for the CTNP yearly walk of witness down the High Street from the Parish Church to Market Hill. Jesus carried his own cross, quietly accepting a barrage of abuse from some rather burly Roman soldiers whilst the crowds followed quietly behind. At market Hill, we heard as the nails were driven into the wood and sang songs of praise and gratitude for the ultimate in selfless suffering. Although early in the day, passers-by stopped to observe the scene and will have undoubtedly been blessed with a great reminder for the fantastic reason for the bank holiday. After lunch we re-donned our walking shoes and 41 folks plus 2 four legged friends enjoyed a 3 mile circular route from World Vision through Broughton Village and Milton Keynes Village. With a number of youngsters in the group we stopped off at various playgrounds. In this picture 24 of us managed to squeeze onto a caterpillar in one of the playgrounds (it's under our feet in case you were looking for it!) Easter Cracked We have seen over 200 local school children at the Bridgebuilder Easter Cracked events recently and these could not have gone ahead without the support of many people who were involved in helping this group of children understanding the importance of Christ’s death and resurrection. Many thanks to all those involved on the day, those who held Easter Cracked in their prayers and of course not forgetting those who kindly donated Crème Eggs!

March 2013 Annual Church Meeting & Elections The church met for its Annual Meeting on Tuesday 19th March and seventy-eight members shared in the agenda. Elections to the eldership and diaconate resulted in the following being elected: Eldership – Angela Gordon and Roger Hall Diaconate – Mark Bendall-Jones and Lewis Chinkwende We welcome them, and thank them for their willingness to serve the church in this way. The meeting also adopted the annual reports from the various church organisations and ministries and approved the Trustees’ Annual Report

January 2013 Jack & Jill heading for Newport Pagnell At NPBC, we are preparing to usher in 2013 with the great news that our new minister is on his way. Jack Walker accepted an invitation to become our new pastor back in September 2012. Now, after many weeks of planning, Jack and his wife Jill are making the journey from Havant in Hampshire to Newport Pagnell and are expected to move into their new home in the town within the next couple of weeks. The official induction service takes place on Saturday, 2nd February when we can expect to welcome many friends as we celebrate Jack and Jill’s arrival. In the meantime, Jack and Jill will be using the next few weeks to settle into their new surroundings. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11.

September 2012 40 years and lots to celebrate We gathered this Sunday to celebrate our 40 year anniversary at which we were joined by our good friends Paul & Janet Rosier. Paul retired in February 2011 after serving as minister at NPBC for nearly 25 years. Having shared much of this rich history with the church his timely sermon (click here to listen) covered the apostle Paul's 2nd letter to Timothy where he handed over the baton of spiritual and pastoral care. This was especially relevant to NPBC as we celebrate this week the acceptance of Jack Walker to become our new minister. Around 150 stayed after the service to catch up with Paul & Janet and enjoy a celebratory lunch together. We're 40 years young - join us 10.30 Sunday 23rd September 2012 It was on the first Sunday of December in 1972 that the reformed Baptist Church in Newport Pagnell met for its first service of public worship. Now as we approach the 40 year mark we shall be holding a service of celebration later this month. Any of you with birthdays in December will know how hard it is to fit in time for yourself. That is why we have decided to celebrate in September. It was at about that time 40 years ago that the first moves were made towards re-establishing a Baptist presence in the town. Two of the founding members are still in membership here but they were the last of the four couples to feel the call to this project. By the time they were on board (20th October) some of the original work had already taken place. Therefore we see no reason why we can't mark the anniversary in September. We have invited Rev Paul Rosier to lead this worship and we would like to invite you to join us if you are able. A light lunch will follow. If you are able to stay for lunch we would appreciate it if you could let us know by sending an e-mail to r.beesley18@btinternet.com or by phone.

July 2012 Church Away Day “Food for the Journey” When you’re on a journey, you need to make sure you have the right fuel to keep you going. Being a Christian is the greatest and most challenging journey we will ever take. Join us for a day of teaching, prayer, music and encouragement as the Rev. Peter Laws leads sessions that give us “Food for the Journey”: > God Values You - Discover how much you mean to God, and how he helps us grow, even through hard times. > You Have a Call - Learn how God knows you completely and has a specific purpose for your life. > Do Not Worry - Hear Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount as he teaches us how to deal with the worries that so often plague us. See you there!... September 29th 9:30-5:00pm at Loughton Baptist Church, Milton Keynes MoPS Mums get street The MoPs end of term street (ish) party was where it was at this month. We enjoyed spot the baby, getting to know each other around a beachball, fancy hat competition and party tea. All topped off with lashings of fun and a bravery award for our little Moppets who have very kindly played next door, allow Mum a break at MoPS!

June 2012 Jubilate!... Girls' Brigade kicked off our Diamond Jubilee celebrations with an indoor street party. Our GB girls (dressed in clothes from every era from 1950's to today) took part in games, enjoyed the all important party tea and discovered more about the Bible's Queen Esther, whose bravery was compared to our own Queen's strong Christian faith. All the girls agreed it was a brilliant party and gave special thanks to our Brigaders and Leaders for all their excellent effort, planning and especially the baking! It was very red, white and blue at our Jubilee Sunday service with flags, bunting and a poignant message from Acts 3 about the earliest church foundations and the beating heart of the Christian message. To mark the occasion every child was presented with a special copy of the New Testament as a keepsake of this memorable day. After the service around 130 jubilee-ers enjoyed a street party style lunch (indoors of course - just because we're British doesn't mean we like rain soaked sandwiches!)

May 2012 Sam's marathon fundraiser.. Our own Sam Downton had a cracking result at the recent MK marathon, where she raised a whopping £626 (plus Gift Aid!) in aid of Bridgebuilder and the amazing work they achieve with schools across Milton Keynes

April 2012

NPBC News & community events...

NEWS FLASH - men can cook! The Men’s Group had a most enjoyable evening on March 8th at the Rose and Crown, directly opposite the Church, where the 19 men who came cooked their own food on several griddles provided, and then ate it. Other occupants of the bar were able to savour the aroma of barbecued (definitely not burnt) chicken, pork and beef, while the chefs engaged in lively conversation. The Annual Church Meeting took place on March 13th. The evening provided us with an opportunity to look back over the past year and also to look forward to where God might be guiding us in the next 12 months. It also included the election of Deacons and Elders, with the following members having been elected to serve in the following offices: Diaconate: David Huckle, Mark Nicholls, Roy Taylor and Jonathan Winship. Eldership: Eric Eyre, Chris Row. We are grateful to all those who put themselves forward for election, as well as those whose period of service came to an end –Eric Djan, Chris Kirby, Paul Manning and Roger Hall. The meeting adopted the annual reports from the various church organisations and ministries and approved the Trustees’ Annual Report, which included the Financial Statement and the Treasurer’s Financial Report. All of which are available in the members area of the website. Easter Cracked - Once more NPBC played host to local schools as four Year 6 year groups discovered the true meaning of Easter through Easter Cracked. The young students took part in a series of quizzes, presided over by “Mr Easter Egghead”, watched a drama featuring the Centurion who was responsible for Jesus’ crucifixion, had round table discussions with volunteers from the Church about the significance of bread and wine in the celebration of Communion and the link to the Passover, and made palm crosses to take home. Every child also received a crème egg from the Church – thanks to everyone who prayed, donated, and to all those who helped under the guidance of Sam Downton and Natasha Wood. MOPS Unite - On March 24th, the Church played host to the MOPS national Spring Event. Women came from as far as Edinburgh, the military base of Mildenhall and Surrey. Participants were able to worship together, heard a series of useful talks, testimonies, took part in discussion groups, and enjoyed some excellent NPBC hospitality.

March 2012

NPBC News & community events...

Food & Fellowship dominates the news again this month. On February 9th, the Men’s Group had another Curry Night, and returned to the Kolkata Restaurant in the High Street for another successful evening of fellowship. Shrove Tuesday fell on 21st February, and we had our by now traditional Pancake Party in the Tickford Room, organised by Richard Beesley and his hard-working band of helpers. About 90 people attended during the evening and, together with the team of helpers, managed to devour some 270 pancakes. We were particularly pleased to welcome one young man, now in the RAF, who comes regularly. He dropped in with his mum and brother on his way from The Falkland Islands, via home, to his base in Scotland. That's what we call dedication! The evening raised £200 for the work of Willen Hospice. Easter Cracked will begin at the end of March, please pray for this important work as our team share the real easter story with our towns younger folk. Donations of a creme egg or 6 to support Easter Cracked are very VERY much appreciated!

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

Don't forget about Lent Lunches every Friday during Lent at the United Reformed Church Hall (to the right of the URC which is behind the Co-op on the High Street). Join us for lunch at just £3.50 for homemade soup, bread, cheese, tea and coffee with all proceeds to Christian Aid.

February 2012

Baptisms & dedications...

We were delighted to formally welcome baby Luke Robbins recently as he was bought by Mum & Dad Flora and Steve as well as sisters Emily and Esther and brother John in an act of infant dedication.

NPBC News & community events...

The month of January was dominated by the preparations for the second visit of a minister to preach with a view to the pastorate, the actual event, and the prayerful consideration afterwards. On the day, we enjoyed a morning service and an evening communion together, punctuated by an Open Forum in the afternoon and a tea. At the Special Church Meeting which followed, attended by over 100 of our members, the many strengths of the minister concerned were recognised by those who spoke, along with areas where it was felt that he did not quite meet the ministerial profile that we had drawn up. In the ballot that followed, the motion to issue a call failed to reach the required majority of 75%. The search therefore continues: the Search Team is about to reconvene. PANCAKES 2012 - Shrove Tuesday, February 21st 6.30 - 8.00pm. Yes, it’s that time of year again - time for our annual Pancake Party. Choose from cherry, lemon, toffee and marshmallow, chocolate, banana, syrup, cream and ice cream! The cost is still 60p per pancake and any proceeds and donations will once again go to Willen Hospice in memory of David Buckell.

January 2012

NPBC News & community events

Christmas Covered!... Christmas Cracked – Year 6 children from all the primary schools in Newport Pagnell, and from Giffard Park, came to our church in early December for the annual presentation of the real Christmas story, this year with a new script, provided by the Bridgebuilder Trust. For over 2 hours, the children were educated in a fun way, participating in the making of mince pies, taking part in quizzes and listening with great attention to presenters and actors explaining why Christmas is special to Christians. Brigades' Christmas celebration – parents and church members turned out in large numbers to support the Brigades as they reminded us of the main features of the Christmas story, in verse, Bible readings, and carols, and were then rewarded with mince pies and coffee. Community Carol Service - as usual, the church was packed on the Sunday before Christmas when we held our annual Carol Service. Children from the Sunday School dressed as their favourite nativity character and our older young people took part, alongside the Music Group and a Choir specially put together for the occasion. Christmas morning - our Elder Steve Wood led the service and followed what has become a tradition of encouraging the younger children to show one of their presents – as well as taking the opportunity once more to put across the message of Immanuel – God with us. New Year's Eve Party - In recent years this has also become something of a tradition, organised by Steve Greenfield and other helpers. As usual, a great time of fun and games, talented performances ontop of a yummy buffet supper was enjoyed by all. We then quietened down, just before midnight, for an epilogue led by Mary Buckell and Claire Sexsmith. The party ended after the obligatory singing of “Auld Lang Syne” followed by an enthusiastic rendition of the Hokey Cokey, and about 100 people went off happily to bed.

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

Blue Christmas service – this experimental service, designed for those who, for various reasons, find Christmas difficult or a painful time, was attended by six people, who greatly appreciated the liturgy, put together by Revd Mindy Bell, and led by Revd Jenny Mills and Chris Row. All participated in the symbolic sprinkling of salt into water to represent God's tears, and in lighting a candle to remind us of hope coming into the world with Jesus. Christmas Eve open air service at Market Hill - preceded by the journey of Mary and Joseph (and their donkey!) from the Parish Church, which was much appreciated by the large crowd which had gathered. We estimate that 200 people were present for the service, which used a new script. Many stopped what they were doing to join in, while heads turned in all the shops as they passed. When the little procession stopped outside the Dolphin, carols were sung, and the shepherds and the wise men (drawn from the crowd) came to visit the baby, after the visit of the angels (more pressed volunteers). Even those people who did not stop at Market Hill for the whole service were talking about it as they carried on with their day, and the donkey added its contribution by lifting up its voice at one point! We hope that this event will have served to remind passers- by whose birth it is we are celebrating.

December 2011

Baptisms & dedications...

Whilst we did not have a Baptismal service on our own premises this month, we were delighted to hear that Beatrice Djan had been baptised at a service in London, where she is currently studying. We did, however, have a service of Dedication, when Phil and Esther Price brought Amelia Joy for blessing.

NPBC News & community events

At our Church Members Meeting, 82 members shared in the agenda and we were delighted to accept Frances Abrams’ application for church membership. The meeting also agreed to move to the next stage in the ‘Search for a Minister’ which will involve inviting the prospective minister back to lead a couple of services and giving the congregation an opportunity to met him. Our treasurer reported on the church’s finances, which are better than budget, and the 2012 financial budget was adopted. The premises group provided a progress report which included approval being obtained for the refurbishment of the unisex wheelchair access toilet. A guidance note was approved which clarifies some aspects of the Church Constitution, as it affects the election of Deacons and Elders and to close we spent time in prayer for guidance in our search for a minister and for the needs of the fellowship and its organisations. YET MORE BB Success! - Congratulations to the Boys’ Brigade Quiz Team who recently won, by 15 points, the Battalion Masterteam competition. Even more impressive was the full marks they received on the Bible knowledge round. The team comprised of Chris Allen, Joshua Brown, Matthias Djan and Alistair Eelbeck. They now go on to the second round of the National Competition. The Men's Group - We gathered for what proved to be a very convivial evening of a good chat over good food, and would be glad to welcome more male members of the congregation and their friends to future occasions. Further details are available from Graham Cramp. Christmas the Mops way - The Mops Christmas fair was well attended and enjoyed by all with scrummy cakes, hotdogs, stocking fillers, craft stalls and activities for the children - not to metion the best teddy tombola ever! Food was also on the agenda for our MOPS Mums and volunteers, at their annual Christmas Meal. The hall was beautifully decorated, and that quality was reflected in the food, all prepared and served by the MOPS leadership team. Eric (or should we say Elvis) was even on hand for and excellent rendition of Houndog! Mission in focus - Completing the foodie items this month was our Church Lunch on Mission Sunday, when over 100 people stayed to enjoy a meal together and hear Revd Edwin Penman, the Church Relations Coordinator for the Baptist Missionary Society, continue the challenging theme of his sermon that morning. He reminded us that Mission – whether in this country or overseas – is the responsibility of all Christians. On the preceding Tuesday evening, we had had the first in a series of Mission Evenings, this one entitled Four for Mission, where four of our members took turns to speak about work in which they were personally involved, or which they strongly supported both financially and in prayer. Games ahoy - November 18th was the occasion of one of our Games Evenings, when members of the congregation came to relax over a board game or work up a lather at the table tennis table.

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

Covenant Renewal - NPBC is not a party to the Covenant which links five of the Churches within CTNP, but nevertheless several of our members attended the annual Renewal Service, which was held this year in the Parish Church and led by the Rector, Revd Michael Godfrey. Prayer stations were set up around the Church, and after a brief opening, members of the congregation moved between them. Chris Row, the President, then read out the Covenant as an act of renewal, and the service concluded with worship, followed by light refreshments. Blue Christmas - This time of year can bring back memories of past pain and sorrow. It highlights and heightens new experiences of suffering. For many, this time of year, that we call the holiday season, is no holiday at all. It is filled with difficult times, humps to get over, gatherings to endure, varieties of pressures and a flood of memories that darken and dampen the days. This service will allow for some time to recognise that this season is not a joy for everyone, for example anyone who - mourns the loss of life, love, relationship, job or good health - has worries or anxieties which overshadow the season - feels isolated or alone during this time of year - faces struggles in other ways The service, which will be held at the Methodist Church at 7.30 pm on Tuesday 20th December, seeks to support all who wish to gather in prayer with others who might be experiencing challenges during this holiday season, while also gently guiding us towards hope and healing. Open Air Service – Christmas Eve 11 am, outside the Dolphin. Last year, as an experiment, we acted out the search of Mary and Joseph for shelter in Bethlehem, and our actors, complete with real donkey, made their way along the High Street, meeting rejection at every pub until they finally found accommodation at the Dolphin. This attracted so much public interest that we decided to do it again, but with a different script for the short service that follows outside the Dolphin. We hope that members of all the churches will give this their support by turning up at 11 am. No walkies this year - As New Year's Day falls on a Sunday, there will be no inter-church walk this year.

November 2011

Baptisms & dedications...

Our Baptistry was opened for the second time in 3 months when Jo Dunk and Elizabeth McLeod demonstrated their faith in Jesus in a very vivid way by being baptised. The service was conducted by the Duty Elder, Revd Eric Eyre, and our guest preacher was Revd Peter Green from Sutton Coldfield. Both Jo and Lizzie spoke movingly of some of the challenges they had faced in their lives, and of how their faith had helped them.

NPBC News & community events

Ten Pin Triumph - Eighteen of our menfolk attended the latest social event organised by the Men's Breakfast team, on November 7th – this time Ten Pin Bowling at the Leisure Plaza. They each bowled two games, punctuated by a burger meal, and a number of respectable scores were achieved – most notably by Derek Eastman, who scored 144 in his second game. The next Men's event is scheduled for 1st December. Further details from Graham Cramp.

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

Harvest surprise - A rousing rendition of the popular Harvest hymn, was enjoyed by High Street passers-by courtesy of those gathered from all Newport Pagnell's churches to support The Foodbank in their plight to increase food stocks and donations and this time of 'harvest abundance'. Light party - Many of our children enjoyed an alternative to Hallowe'en by attending a Light Party run by the CTNP at The United Reformed Church. A series of games and craft activities were followed by an excellent party tea, and all who attended reported that they had had a great time.

October 2011

Baptisms & dedications...

We were pleased to be joined by the family and friends of Spencer Hazel when he was brought by his parents, Fiona and Stuart and welcomed into the Church by dedication at our harvest festival service. Our next service of baptism will take place on Sunday 6th November. Please join us for this joyous occaision when two members of our congregation will share their testimony and give their life to Jesus through this act of joyful obedience.

NPBC News & community events

Church Weekend update - The recently rebuilt Brooklands Centre was the excellent venue for our first a Church awayday for several years. We all gathered for drinks and pastries before the start of our first session of worship, before the children set off to walk along to the Church to begin their exciting programme. The weather had other ideas and a heavy downpour just minutes after they had set off meant that they needed to hurry back to shelter and dry off before finally making the journey to NPBC for the fun to commence. Meanwhile the adults' programme had got under way, under the capable hands of our external speaker, Chris Poole from World Vision, and our very own Steve Wood. In three sessions we looked back at the way God had blessed us and brought us on in the 39 years of the Church's history, and then looked forward and discussed some of the challenges that we anticipated facing. We had the opportunity to record and reflect upon our own thanks by writing them on stones reminiscent of those from the book of Joshua (4:4-7 & 24:27). After a marvelous lunch together, the children returned, and undertook a series of challenges with adult help, including building the tallest Jenga tower, making the best paper aeroplane, getting the best putting score, and taking part in a treasure hunt in the High Street. There was a chance to learn how to create floral masterpieces under expert tuition and an opportunity to chat and catch up with friends old and new. Later that evening we gathered afresh at Lovat Hall for a fab barbecue and line dancing (yeeha!). On Sunday, the morning service, led by Steve Wood, carried on Saturday's theme of “Growing Together”, and we shared lunch afterwards. Massive thanks go to everyone involved with planning and facilitating, feeding the troops, taking care of the children and clearing up. The whole weekend was greatly enjoyed by all who came, and a huge renewal of energy and synergy was felt as we as Church family wholeheartedly agreed that we should not wait so long to have another! Church Meeting update - At the Church Meeting on 20th September, we were delighted to welcome Jo Dunk, Jo Isherwood and Phil & Ester Price as church members. The meeting also approved the elder’s recommendations following the annual review of the Church Members Roll, which included the transfer of Abigail Wilks (nee Evans) to Reading Baptist Church. Roy Freestone brought the meeting up to date on the search for a new minister and requested prayer for the Search Team as they would meet on the following Monday. Our treasurer informed the meeting of the changes to the Baptist Union Pension Scheme and how it will affect us going forward as a contributor. A presentation on MK Prospects was received and the meeting was informed of work on the premises which had been carried out over the last six months. The meeting heard reports on many aspects of the work carried out by the Church and CTNP. The evening closed in a time of prayer for our fellowship, the leadership and the organisations. Four go to Uni - Four of our young people are going to university this month for the first time. Beatrice Djan is going to Kings to read Biomedical Sciences, Connie McCaffrey is off to Wolverhampton to study British Sign Language, Michelle Taylor is to study Music Industry Management at kent and Catherine Turner is going to Leicester to read History. We congratulate these four young ladies on their A level results and in obtaining a university place in a competitive year. Golden Celebrations - We congratulate three couples who have all celebrated golden wedding anniversaries recently. Christine and Trevor Ransome were the first to be feted, on September 9th, followed by Margaret and Eric Eyre on September 30th, and Elaine and Chris Kirby on October 7th. The Men's Breakfast Club branches out - Two very successful evening social events for the men of the church and their guests have so far taken place. On September 18th 18 men gathered at the Mysore Restaurant in the High Street for a curry. An excellent meal and pleasant company were enjoyed by all, and it was decided to make this a regular arrangement, on the first Thursday evening of each month.Therefore on October 6th, a dozen men met at the Working Men's Club in Silver Street for darts and pool, and a fish and chip supper. This had the advantage of allowing everyone to circulate and get to know one another. The same will be true of the next event, Ten Pin Bowling, on November 3rd, and any men wishing to come along are welcome to get the details from Graham Cramp.

September 2011

Baptisms & dedications...

Our congregation was even larger than usual on 7th August when we were joined by the family and friends of Rob Stanford and Matthew & Jane Main to witness their moving testimonies about their journey to faith and their baptism in our on-stage pool. If God is gently poking you to ask about baptism, don't ignore Him - speak to one of our Elders, Deacons or your friendly pastoral assistant and get the ball rolling!

NPBC News & community events

250 candles for Carey - 30 members of the congregation met for a fascinating insight into the life and calling of William Carey, a local man who founded what became the Baptist Missionary Society and spent the peak years of his life working in India. We watched a DVD which showed how much opposition he faced, both from many of the church leaders of the day, and from his own family. We were challenged to pray about modern mission opportunities, and to add to the church's display of causes that are meaningful to members of the congregation (by adding details to the map in the corridor). We were grateful to Catherine Hall and Eric Eyre for arranging this event, which was part of the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of Carey's birth Church weekend : be there or be square : Sat 17th & Sun 18th Sept - Don't miss out on your opportunity to join us for inspirational talk, fellowship, fun and food right here in Newport Pagnell (at the newly refurbished Brooklands Centre on Saturday) for every member of our church family. Places are limited so contact the church office today to book.

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

Seeds sown this August - The first CTNP Holiday Bible Club was a great success and totally surpassed the expectations of all involved. Around 45 local 5-11 year olds attended the URC each day to learn in a 'Mission Rescue' style the story of how God rescued the Israelites through Moses and how even today He can rescue us through Jesus. Each day we would start with a warm up, songs, games, and clue finding before finding out (via a high tech satellite link to HQ) more about Moses and how he was getting on. Each day built on the Moses story from baby in the rushes, to crossing the Red Sea. After a focus time in our groups (groups were spilt according to age) where children were able to reflect on the story, check their knowledge and create a craft to remind them of that day, we would come back together and interrogate a character. The children asked some amazingly insightful questions showing a real understanding of the story. One 5 year old asked 'Moses' if he had meant to kill the Egyptian or not and another asked how he felt when the Pharaoh's magicians had been able to turn their sticks into snakes as well (tough or what!??). The week ended with a family BBQ back at NPBC which was enjoyed by around 150. Children were able to present to their parents the songs, dances and most importantly the story they had learnt during the week. Feedback from the children and parents, many of whom had never attended church, was extremely positive and by the second day we already had parents asking which week it would be held next year because it was such a hit with their little one. The date has been set for next year - 13th to 17th August if you would like to be involved or know a 5 to 11 year old who might love to come along. Thank you to everyone who was involved this year either in prayer, financially, helping with the children or feeding us at the BBQ. It was truly worth the effort and we are certain CTNP-HBC will grow year on year, making Jesus more familiar to anyone who may not have met Him yet.

August 2011

Baptisms & dedications...

Please join us for our baptismal service on Sunday 7th August where three members of our congregation will share their testimony and give their life to Jesus through this act of joyful obedience.

NPBC News & community events

Check out Scuba Keith - Keith Bedford, completed the British Gas Great London Swim on 2nd July in 52mins 56 seconds in aid of Bridgebuilder Trust. This event was a 1 mile open water swim in London’s Victoria Dock. Keith writes. “It was quite an experience. As we assembled at the start I took care to make my way towards the back of the wave to avoid the stampede into the water. Many of us were doing the swim for the first time and lightened the atmosphere by comparing the fit of the wetsuits and the Nora Batty legs. Then we were in the water and the first 1000m was down the length of the dock. The water was murky but not unduly cold.When we turned to swim across the dock it was noticeable that there was a current which was pushing back down the dock and it was hard work to keep on course for the next bouy. The final 400m was back down the dock and in the last 200m I was caught by the leaders of the following wave. They just swam over me! The hardest bit was getting out of the water, my legs didn't want to work and the added weight of a soggy wetsuit didn't help. A short stagger up the ramp to collect the goody bag and medal, by which time my legs were functioning again.” Keith is hoping to raise £1000 from the Great Swim for the Bridgebuilder Trust. The just giving page is still open for donations at www.justgiving.com/Keith-Bedford-GreatSwim. Please hand sponsor monies to Keith or Barbara as soon as possible. Thank you for your support and generosity. Home on the Range - Regular attendees of the Men’s Breakfasts enjoyed some man-time together on July 5th, when they met at Wavendon Golf Club to hit a bucket of balls on the driving range, followed by a supper of ham and eggs. A good time was had by all. A change of scene - The need to refurbish part of the floor in the Main Hall, following a recent flood, and then to re-polish the whole floor, meant that the main hall was out of action for a week in late July. So our service on 24th July was held at the nearby Cedars School. The children from the Sunday School left the service at the usual time, and were then escorted back to Lovat Hall for their classes. And it was all worth it because the floor looks fab too!

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

Carnival winners! (again) - CTNP were delighted to win another trophy – 2nd in their class – for their float at the Newport Pagnell Carnival on July 9th. But it very nearly didn’t happen. Despite strenuous efforts by the Carnival Committee to find us a lorry, one had not been located by the evening of the 8th. Fortunately, one of our members, John Ecclestone, came to our rescue and by 9.30 pm we had a suitable vehicle. As it was then too late to build the float, the team of helpers came back at 7.30 am on the Saturday to begin their task, and completed it just in time. Painted panels on the sides of the float told the story of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat”, and we had not one but two Josephs on the float (one facing each side), as well as other characters from the story, accompanied by the soundtrack from the show, provided by Keith Bedford. Other members of CTNP, drawn from the various churches in town, distributed balloons and information leaflets – including details of the forthcoming Holiday Club – to the throng of spectators along the route. As a humorous touch, the lorry was “pulled” by two Hebrew slaves. Carey Evening: 7.45pm Tues 16th August - We invite you to come along to Lovat Hall to explore the story of William Carey in establishing what has become the modern mission movement of BMS and to consider how this can relate to us as Christians in the 21st Century. William Carey was born on 17th August 1761 in a Northamptonshire village not many miles from Newport Pagnell. He was instrumental in forming the Baptist Missionary Society in 1792 before sailing to India as its first missionary.

July 2011

Baptisms & dedications...

Last month regular NPBC attendees Matthew & Jane Main presented twins Ava & Sally Main as well as their brothers Callum & Mikey in an act of dedication for the whole family. We were also blessed the following week when church members Michael and Helen Donelan bought for dedication their second son Thomas, brother to Luke. Next month we have a baptismal service on Sunday 7th August. Please join us for this joyous occasion, not only for those giving their testimony and their life to Jesus through this act of joyful obedience, but also for our Church family as we share this amazing journey together.

NPBC News & community events

Sunshine and sports at NPBC Picnic - On Sunday 3rd July many of the congregation stayed on after the morning service to enjoy a picnic lunch together, followed by games of rounders and football on the field. The weather was kind, and a good time was had by all. Some of those who stayed later helped with painting the CTNP Carnival float, while keeping an eye on progress in the Wimbledon Men’s Final!

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

Newport Carnival - Saturday, July 9th. On three Sunday afternoons over the past couple of months, the NPBC halls have been busy with people preparing artwork on hardboard panels for the CTNP float at the Carnival. The theme of our float this year was “Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”. Photo's and a full report will follow in next months news! Mission:Rescue Holiday Club is coming! CTNP are supporting this fantastic event for children aged 5 to 11 which will run this summer at the United Reformed Church every morning from 15th to 19th August. Flyers have been sent via 3 of the primary schools in Newport Pagnell and places have been limited to 80 for this first year. More information about the event and how to register is available from http//newport-pagnell.org.uk. Please help if you can.....Any help you can offer either financially or with time will be gratefully received. Please also take time to pray for this important work - for the seeds that will be sown in our town's young hearts and the ground that those seeds might find within their families and for the future. Social Events planned - The team that brings us the very popular Men’s Breakfasts have planned a series of social events before the end of the year. The outline details are: >>Early September - Curry Night >> 24th September - Breakfast >> Late October/Early November - 10 Pin Bowling >> 10th December - Breakfast >> December - Pub Games Night at The Working Men's Club. Further information will be available in our weekly in-church publication, J14, nearer the events.

June 2011

NPBC News & community events

Bridge Builder 100 bridge sponsored walk - Bridge Builder is a faith-based educational charity, working in the schools of Milton Keynes. The 21st May 35 mile bridge walk followed the 100 bridges from Kings Langley to Milton Keynes to raise much needed funds for this excellent outreach. The NPBC all male team; Graham Cramp, Rod Ruston, Michael Sexsmith, Keith Bedford and Andy Brown completed the 14 miles between Leighton Buzzard and Great Linford and solo slogger, Sam Downton completed the whole 35 miles! BB slog it out - The Company Section boys organised and completed, on 21st May, a 12 hour non - stop games session to raise funds for the Company. The boys have decided to donate half of the money raised to Willen Hospice. As well as board games they played football, cricket, unihoc, badminton and volleyball. They hope to raise between £400 -£500. The event finished at midnight and they stayed on for a sleepover in the church, eventually settling down about 3 am. Breakfast was at 8.00 and after a stroll around Newport Pagnell they returned to the church for the Sunday morning service. One boy cycled to Stoke Goldington to complete his paper round between breakfast and church! Many thanks to those who supported the boys. NPBC Picnic Sunday 3rd July - Bring your own picnic and enjoy a time of fun and fellowship immediately after the morning service. Simply relax and chat or if you want something a bit more energetic then there will be organised games on the field. A great afternoon for all the family. Mens (late, late) Breakfast Tuesday 5th July - 6-30pm - Wavendon Golf Centre with a large Bucket of balls plus Ham, Egg & Chips to boot! Only £5.99 - please contact Steve Greenfield to book a place. For your info NPBC Men's Breakfast events for the rest of the year are:- >>Late June - T20 Cricket at Campbell Park >>5th July - Golf Range >>Early September - Curry Night >>24th September - Breakfast >>Late October/Early November - 10 Pin Bowling >>10th December - Breakfast >>December - Pub Games Night at The Working Men's Club

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

Mission:Rescue Holiday Club is coming! CTNP are supporting this fantastic event for children aged 5 to 11 which will run this summer at the United Reformed Church every morning from 15th to 19th August. Flyers will be sent via the 4 primary schools in Newport Pagnell and places have been limited to 80 for this first year. More information about the event and how to register is available from http//newport-pagnell.org.uk. Please help if you can.....Any help you can offer either financially or with time will be gratefully received and please take the time to pray for this important work and for the seeds that will be sown in our town's young hearts and the ground that those seeds might find within the children's families and future.

May 2011

NPBC News & community events

Yet more BB success! - The Company Section of our Boys’ Brigade Company entered two teams into the West Anglia Battalion Unihoc Competition on the 9th April in Luton. Our ‘A’ team were overall Battalion Champions with our ‘B’ team in second place, only losing out to the ‘A’ team. This victory has strengthened our pole position in the Battalion Champions Cup. With only one event to go, we have a lead of 15 points. The company was represented by Matthias Djan, Tim Holmwood, Joshua Brown, Sam Kelk, Paul Chinkwende and Alastair Eelbeck (not in picture). Easter Services - At the Palm Sunday service, we were charmed when the Sunday School children came back into the hall just before the end of the service, waving palm branches and distributing palm crosses to the adults. As an innovation this year, Roy Freestone led a Communion service on Maundy Thursday, explaining the significance of the Last Supper, and this was attended by over 40 people. He then took the lead at the Good Friday service, which entailed meditations on the theme “At the Foot of the Cross”. There was a very positive response to both services. At 7.30 am on Easter Day, 30 of us gathered in the garden behind the church for our annual Sunrise service, and, unusually, the Sun was in evidence! Trevor Ransome led the service, and it was great to be able to sing some of the great Resurrection hymns in the open air. Then at 10.30 Eric Eyre continued the theme, with a sermon entitled “Mission Accomplished – Son Rise”. Throughout all the Easter services we were greatly blessed by the contributions of the worship leaders and preachers, by the musicians and those who had spent a number of Friday evenings practising the hymns and worship songs so that they could give a lead, and by a number of members of the congregation who took responsibility for Bible readings. Good Friday walk - We had a sunny and warm afternoon for our traditional walk, devised as usual by Richard Beesley, who also set a treasure hunt quiz for the children. Setting off from the car park at Furzton Lake, we had a circular walk of some 5.5 miles, including a very pleasant stretch through the bluebells in Howe Park Wood. The picture shows some of the tailenders, just before the finish, clearly still enjoying the experience. News from Alan and Anne Penn - We have recently received the latest Newsletter from our Link Missionaries, the Penns, who are working in Nepal. Alan is presently recovering from heart surgery. Click here to read the full newsletter. Girls Brigades' royal wedding fun - Our Explorers and Junior sections enjoyed a fab indoor street party to celebrate the royal wedding with style. With bunting, tiaras, princess gowns and even an official wedding photographer the evening was topped of with a traditional tea of cucumber sandwiches and yummy cake.

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

Healing on the Streets - The final seminar in the series about healing was held at the URC on April 9th. Wendy Bull and her colleague Trevor from High Wycombe came to tell us about their ministry of healing on the streets. During a couple of hours on most Saturday afternoons a group of Christians goes out to offer prayer for healing to passers by. Where the offer is taken up, two of the group will lay hands on the person concerned and pray for their healing. In many cases, pain has been relieved and healing has taken place. The meeting was chaired by Revd Richard Cadell, Vicar of Haversham, who wants to explore whether this is a ministry we should be offering in Newport Pagnell. In consequence, the next AGM of the CTNP Forum has been rescheduled to take place on Thursday 7th July, at the Methodist Church, at 8 o’clock to enable Richard to come and discuss this with us. CTNP organised their usual Open Air Service earlier on Good Friday. Over 120 members of all the churches in Newport Pagnell processed silently along the High Street on Good Friday, to mark the most solemn day in the Christian calendar. They followed an actor (our very own Steve Wood) portraying Jesus Christ, carrying his cross and guarded by a Roman Centurion (Geoff Morris). There was then an open air service on Market Hill, made up of a series of Bible readings, reflections and prayers about the main events of the first Good Friday. Passers by were offered a leaflet, explaining the significance of the service and containing an invitation to attend one of the many services in the town’s churches on Easter Day.

April 2011

NPBC News & community events

Pancake Mania - It was great to see so many pancake lovers on Shrove Tuesday. There were quite a few chocolaty fingers (and faces!) but lots of satisfied customers. The event raised £225 for Willen Hospice in memory of David Buckell, part of the original Pancake Party team back in the 1980s. Easter Cracked - This fantastic event continues this month thanks to a great deal of hard work and commitment from the team. Thank you to everyone who has being praying for this amazing opportunity to share the Easter story and the Gospel with hundreds of our local 9 - 11 year olds. Thank you also to all those involved in the events, for creme egg donations and especially to our exceptionally skilled team of presenters! Newport Pagnell BB First Aid Winners - The Company Section of our Boys’ Brigade Company travelled to Flitwick on Friday 1st April to take part in the West Anglia Battalion First Aid Competition and returned as outright winners. The team consisted of Matthias Djan (team leader), Joshua Brown, Paul Chinkwende and Tim Holmwood. This victory has put them into first place in the Battalion Champions Cup, with two events to go. Well done boys. Craft Fair - Saturday 9th April from 10am to 2pm here at Lovat Hall with plenty of scrummy handmade and craft items. If you can pop along and support this lovely event, there's sure to be more to come! Good Friday Walk - The gardeners tell me that they need some rain so we have decided to hold our Good Friday Walk once again this year. This year the starting point is the car park at Furzton Lake (off V4 Watling Street – opposite The Bowl). The car park sign is quite small and is set back near the hedge. It has a 6’ 3” height barrier which is ample for most vehicles.We aim to start at 2.15pm. The main walk is between 3½ and 4 miles with an optional extension of 1 – 1½ miles for the more speedy walkers. When we finish will depend on how far and how fast you walk! The walk is suitable for pushchairs but it does cross more roads (quiet estate roads) than is usual. It is essential that all children are supervised by an appropriate adult. For more details or any questions please see Richard Beesley. Easter Services - For the first time this year we will be having an Evening Communion Service on Maundy Thursday, 21st April at 7pm. This will be led by Revd Roy Freestone, who will also lead our Good Friday Devotions at 10.45am on Friday 22nd. These will follow on from the CTNP Open Air Service, starting outside the Parish Church at 9.40 am. There will be a series of Bible readings, reflections, prayers and hymns, before and after the usual procession to Market Hill in the centre of town. This time, however, the procession will accompany Jesus, who will be carrying his cross to the place of execution. We have two services, as usual, on Easter morning (April 24th). Trevor Ransome will lead our Sunrise Service at 7.30am, on the river bank behind the Church, and then our family service at 10.30am Revd Eric Eyre will lead a service in the Church which has the theme “Mission Accomplished: Son-rise”.

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

Healing on the streets - The third talk in the series “Understanding Healing” took place at NPBC on Saturday 19th March. The speaker was Lin Button, Director of Counselling at All Saints’ Church, Woodford Wells, who has been involved in Healing Prayer for more than 30 years, and has a well established private practice. She continues to research and develop healing prayer in the context of conference teaching, prayer ministry and counselling. The final talk will be held at the URC on Saturday 9th April, again from 2 pm to 4 pm, when Wendy Bull will speak about the ministry of Healing on the Streets. A night at the theatre - THE NARROW ROAD - Riding Lights Theatre Company, Tuesday 19th April 7.30 pm Stantonbury Campus Theatre. Amid the heat and beauty of ancient Palestine a man stands on a dusty road. An extraordinary journey will take place; one which will re-trace the footsteps of Jesus into a world of miracles and madness, violence and liberation. As the narrow road is walked, this turbulent world is turned upside down; its inhabitants confronted by an unexpected and surprising vision. Meeting the characters and re-living the events of the gospels, this passion story takes its audience back along that original road, through the place of the cross and into the challenge of a life beyond. Compellingly performed, The Narrow Road asks each of us to review the understanding and practice of our own faith in relation to that journey today. Tickets are £10 (£8 concessions) available from Anne Slee email anne.slee@gmail.com or tel: 01908 660957 or Stantonbury Campus Theatre Box Office tel: 01908 324422.

March 2011

Baptisms...

It was a great joy to see Graham and Judy Cramp, Jose Kroukamp and Ester Price, demonstrate their faith by being baptised on 13th February. Each spoke movingly about their spiritual journey and how they had reached this point. We recognised that these would be the last baptisms carried out in this Church by our retiring minister, Paul Rosier, but knew that arrangements would be in place for anyone who wished to follow their example in the future.

NPBC groups & community news

Paul & Janet Rosier's retirement events - We held a weekend of special events to mark the retirement of our first Minister, Revd Paul Rosier, and his wife, Janet. On Saturday 19th February there was a social for past and present members, which included a special edition of “This is your life” hosted by Trevor Ransome. On the following day, Paul conducted the last service of his ministry in the church, and this included a presentation by the Sunday School, highlighting Paul and Janet’s passion for long distance walking. There was then a lunch for almost 250 people, when members of CTNP Executive, clergy from the area, family and friends joined the Mayor of Newport Pagnell and church members in honouring Paul and Janet’s contribution to our local community. In a series of short speeches after lunch, David Huckle (who hosted the proceedings), Chris Row, President of CTNP, Revd Beverley Hollins, and the Mayor, Cllr Ian Carman, paid tribute to Paul, and Yvonne Higgins highlighted the contribution of Janet to the Christian community in Milton Keynes. The Church Treasurer, Richard Beesley, presented a gift to the couple on behalf of the Church, Roy Taylor presented gifts on behalf of Thames Valley Police (whom Paul had served as Chaplain), and Chris Row gave Paul a crystal glass engraved with the CTNP logo. Christine and Rachel Mulwa sang a beautiful musical tribute to their Pastor. Paul and Janet’s children also played a major part in the proceedings. Judith read a message of greeting from Andy, who is currently working in Australia, and Tim gave a hilarious tribute to his Dad, “in the style of Paul Rosier”, complete with a three-point sermon. There were greetings from former members now in the USA, and a video of Paul fulfilling an ambition of playing the triangle in an orchestra – the MK Music Service Intermediate Orchestra – following which he was presented with a triangle as a memento. The proceedings were rounded off with prayer by the Moderator, Revd Roy Freestone, followed by a tea, including the cutting (and eating) of a cake specially made by Marian Whitaker. Pancake Party! - On Shrove Tuesday (March 8th) we shall once again be holding our PANCAKE PARTY here in the Tickford Room. Come and join us between 6.30 and 8.00 for a menu which includes cherry, lemon, toffee and marshmallow, chocolate, banana, syrup, cream and ice cream! The cost is 60p per pancake and all proceeds, and any donations, will go to Willen Hospice in memory of David Buckell who was part of the original Pancake Party team back in the 1980s. Easter Cracked School events - At the end of this month and the beginning of next we shall be giving an opportunity for Year 6 pupils from local Primary Schools to come to the church and learn about the true meaning of Easter by taking part in the “Easter Cracked” programme. As part of this, each child will receive a Crème Egg, donated by members of the congregation.

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

The second in the series of talks supported by Churches Together in Newport Pagnell on different aspects of healing took place on 19th February. Dr Gareth Tuckwell, the Chief Executive of Burrswood Christian Hospital spoke about his work. As with the first, those who attended from our church spoke very highly of the event. The third in the series will be at NPBC on Saturday 19th March, again from 2.00 until 4.30 pm. The speaker on that occasion will be Lin Button, who has had a healing prayer practice for 30 years.

February 2011

Baptisms & dedications...

We were delighted to see two of our number, Sandra Maher and Mark Bendall-Jones, demonstrate their Christian commitment by being baptised last month, and we are looking forward to four more folk taking this step on Sunday February 13th, at 10.30 am. We warmly welcome to the service anyone who wants to find out more about what is involved in baptism, and why it is important to us as members of a Baptist Church. It was a real pleasure to see the church so full on Sunday 30th January, when two babies, Mia Hall and Lethiwe Mpoko, were brought for dedication. Members and friends of the two families added to the usual numbers in the congregation, and many stayed on after the service for a fabulous buffet lunch.

NPBC groups & community news

Boys' Brigade - 15th January 2010 saw six of our Boys' Brigade Company Section boys travel to Luton to compete in the West Anglia Battalion Annual Five-a-Side Competition. Having not lost a game and only conceding one goal the boys deservedly reached the final. The final was a close match against 2nd Bedford and after extra time and penalties our boys lifted the trophy for the first time, still having only conceded one goal. Well done to Tim Holmwood (Goalkeeper), Joshua Brown, Paul Chinkwende, Simon Cowling, Matthias Djan and James Winship Paul & Janet Rosier retirement - Over the weekend of 19/20 February, we shall be holding a number of special events to mark the retirement from the ministry of Revd Paul Rosier, and to say farewell to him and his wife Janet, who have both been part of our life as a church for nearly 25 years and will be greatly missed by us all.

Churches Together Newport Pagnell (CTNP)

CTNP are supporting a series of talks on different aspects of healing. The first was held on January 8th, when Revd Dr Russ Parker was the speaker. Those who attended from our church spoke very highly of the event. The second one will be on Saturday 19th February, from 2.00 until 4.30 pm at the United Reformed Church, when Dr Gareth Tuckwell of Burrswood Christian Hospital will be speaking, and the third will be at NPBC on Saturday 19th March, again from 2.00 until 4.30 pm. The speaker on that occasion will be Lin Button, who has had a healing prayer practice for 30 years.