Dear Friends,

This Sunday is national church Safeguarding Sunday, and we will be marking it in services with a special prayer or song, suitable for the congregation. Jenny Lansdowne is the Safeguarding Officer for BHC, and will continue this role for Godalming Minster, alongside Sarah Higgins who is the safeguarding officer for St Peter and St Paul’s. Everything we do as a church and Minster is underpinned by our Safeguarding policy. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, but we are hugely grateful to Jenny and Sarah for leading us in this undertaking.

Advent & Christmas – we are celebrating as Godalming Minster as Christmas is too good a chance to miss to share our new identity tell people about the changes afoot. There’s a full programme coming soon, but the imminent items are:

Book now for the Christmas Quiz organised by Nexus on Sat 2 Dec, 7.30 at Busbridge Church. It’s just 2 weeks away, and a great fun start to the Advent season. With quizmasters from the men’s group, it’s really a joint collaboration, and a great chance to draw everyone together from across the congregations and ministries.

Donations for outward giving Hampers are needed now! Within Godalming Minster, what was the Besom hamper project is now going to be coordinated by the Foodbank. Please pick up a shopping list from church this Sunday, and bring your goodies to the Yew Tree Café any day of the week until 3 December.

Oh, and in recent weeks, 14 people have joined a small group! We pray for new friendships and faith deepening relationships, and that it will be a blessing to the new joiners and their group in the weeks, months and years to come.

SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER

GOD WITH US:  HOPE AND RECONCILIATION.
John chapter 21 verses 1 to 19.

9.30AM Contemporary Service
Busbridge Church & online
All gather in church before the children leave for their groups in the Old Rectory.

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Hambledon Church & online

4PM Messy Church
Hambledon Village Hall

SUNDAY 26 NOVEMBER

The Advent Sermon Series begins
”Be prepared” 
Ezekiel 34: 11-16, 20-24, Ephesians 1: 15-end, Matthew 25: 31 – end 

9.30AM Contemporary Service
Busbridge Church & online
All gather in church before the children leave for their groups in the Old Rectory.

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Hambledon Church & online

6PM Busbridge Evening Service
Busbridge Church

Notices

Annual Memorial Service 18 Nov, 3PM at Busbridge Church
Each year we hold a Memorial Service to remember friends and family members who have died, either recently or at any time, however long ago.  This year’s service is on Saturday 18 November at 3.00 p.m.  During the service we read out the names of those we remember and light candles in their memory.  Refreshments are served afterwards and all are welcome to stay.  The service is open to everyone, so please look up the details HERE if you would like to come. 

Godalming Minster’s first Alpha course is starting on 11 January 2024 at Godalming Minster St Mark’s Franklyn Road. It will actually be the 3rd course run together, but we are starting a bigger campaign for this one. You can a) sign up yourself, b) invite a friend or family member, c) offer to cook or help with hospitality for one of the sessions or d) all of the above. Keith Harper will be delighted to hear from you whichever option you choose!

Christmas sur-thrival For those looking ahead further, the dates for Christmas services and events are now available on the calendar, and on A church near you. Some details might get a tweak, but you can at least save the dates. There is now a very simple holding page for www.godalmingminster.org to direct everyone to Christmas events and services, and the existing church web sites. (Development of an exciting new web site for January is getting underway.) If you missed the short presentation at church last Sunday, you can find it HERE.

Christmas Hampers
Godalming Minster is collecting goodies to make up gift hampers for local families, some of whom are supported by the Foodbank at St Mark’s year round, and some who appreciate a little help at this time of year. We hope to make the hampers a real treat and show of love and generosity to those who might not be able to enjoy the nicer things at Christmas. It is especially appreciated if the items are from the luxury range rather than value range. There will be more details and a specific shopping lists available next week, but no gifts will be wasted. You can drop items hamper off at the Yew Tree Café from next week until 3 December.

Save the dates (More details to follow):

Special Parochial Church Meeting on 7 Jan, 11.30 at Godalming Minster Busbridge Church Brighton Road
Godalming Minster Launch service on 14 January, 10.30am at Godalming Minster Church Street.

Coming Up / plan ahead

See the events coming up next and look up dates further ahead in the full calendar.

Can we pray for you?

***Please send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Monday Morning Reflections on Zoom
If you  would like to start your week in quiet reflection over a passage of scripture do join us at 8.45am on Mondays – you will be very welcome. For any further information please contact: Gertrud Sollars or Shan Hallam.

Wednesdays at 9AM:
Morning Prayer at Hambledon Church
Morning Prayer on Zoom

Groups & Activities

Nexus meets on the 1st Thursday of the month, with talks and activities for church members and the community. The 2023 Nexus programme can be found on Nexus.

Ladies’ Drinks takes place every 1st Friday of the month, 7.30PM at the The Pavilion by Howling Owl.

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. See the calendar event for details.

Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic takes place 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jul-Dec is now available. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

Bereavement Café – The Bereavement Café is for anyone who has been bereaved recently or some time ago and provides a safe and supportive space to come and chat with members of the pastoral care team, and others who have experienced loss. Every last Tuesday of the month in the Old Rectory. More details >>>

get involved / serving

We’re passionate about people feeling like they’re a part of our church family and one of the best places to do that is as part of a team.

No matter your age or experience, there’s a team that you can join, serving alongside others and getting to know people better in the church. You can find out about all our opportunities to serve and offer your time and talents on the Join a Team page.

Don’t forget about…

The MyChurchSuite app. It’s the easiest way to check dates, rotas, church emails, look up church members and sign up to events (without having to enter your details again and again!). Contact the Church Office if you’ve lost your login details or would like to request an account. The instructions which are now on the web site HERE.

Elsewhere

For news from all the other local churches, see:
Churches Together Link Up – NOVEMBER 2023

The Yew Tree Café at Busbridge Church is open 8.30am-4pm weekdays in term time, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and 10am-4pm during school holidays.

PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY TEAM AVAILABLE

If you, or someone you know at church, are in need of support and care, please contact Sandra Wilkin via the church office, or e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org.

To contact the EMERGENCY prayer chain, email prayer@bhcgodalming.org or call 01483 421267.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

Dear Friends,

Today is Godalming’s Day of Peace, and there’s an exhibition running in Godalming Museum, a poetry reading at 6pm, and one of our church members, Dawn O’Toole, is leading a peace craft workshop in the Pepperpot this afternoon. This is an important sign for our town, particularly as we look ahead to tomorrow and Sunday when Remembrance services will be taking place, and we continue to pray as ever more alarming world events unfold. In fact, let’s double our prayer efforts this weekend.

SUNDAY 12 NOVEMBER

GOD WITH US:  SACRIFICE. John chapter 19 v 16b to 27

10.30AM Hambledon Remembrance Service
Hambledon Church & online
(No children’s group this week.)

10.45AM Busbridge Remembrance Service
Busbridge Church & online
Please note: Children will not be starting in the service this week – parents, please drop off in the Old Rectory from 10.30am onwards. Explorers (age 7-11) will be combining with Ark and Tiny Tigers (age 2-7) as we expect that a number of our children (and leaders) will be attending uniformed parades elsewhere.

6PM Busbridge Evening Service
Busbridge Church

SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER

GOD WITH US:  HOPE AND RECONCILIATION.
John chapter 21 verses 1 to 19.

9.30AM Contemporary Service
Busbridge Church & online
All gather in church before the children leave for their groups in the Old Rectory.

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Hambledon Church & online

4PM Messy Church
Hambledon Village Hall

Notices

The monthly Saturday prayer group meets tomorrow 11 Nov, 8am at Busbridge Church for an hour to pray about topical matters and other things close to ourselves and our community.  All welcome to join. Please contact Michaeleashing@aol.com for info, and to submit a prayer requests. 

Prime Time Tea & Talk – Busbridge Commonwealth War Graves, by Simon Taylor
Monday 13 November, 2-4pm at Busbridge Church. Busbridge churchyard has a handful of war graves that are officially recognised and maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Join us for this Tea & Talk when Simon Taylor, our Rector and keen amateur wartime historian, will introduce us to casualties of war at rest in our churchyard. Non-PT members welcome! More details and sign up.

Annual Memorial Service 18 Nov, 3PM at Busbridge Church
Each year we hold a Memorial Service to remember friends and family members who have died, either recently or at any time, however long ago.  This year’s service is on Saturday 18 November at 3.00 p.m.  During the service we read out the names of those we remember and light candles in their memory.  Refreshments are served afterwards and all are welcome to stay.  The service is open to everyone, so please look up the details HERE if you would like to come. 

For those looking ahead further, the dates for Christmas services and events are now available on the calendar, and on A church near you. Some details might get a tweak, but you can at least save the dates. There is now a very simple holding page for www.godalmingminster.org to direct everyone to Christmas events and services, and the existing church web sites. (Development of an exciting new web site for January is getting underway.) If you missed the short presentation at church last Sunday, you can find it HERE.

Christmas Hampers
Godalming Minster is collecting goodies to make up gift hampers for local families, some of whom are supported by the Foodbank at St Mark’s year round, and some who appreciate a little help at this time of year. We hope to make the hampers a real treat and show of love and generosity to those who might not be able to enjoy the nicer things at Christmas. It is especially appreciated if the items are from the luxury range rather than value range. There will be more details and a specific shopping lists available next week, but no gifts will be wasted. You can drop items hamper off at the Yew Tree Café from next week until 3 December.

Busbridge is blessed to have a great team of Road Stewards who deliver The Bridge magazine six times per year.  We are currently looking for a volunteer to deliver in the Monteagle, Westdene and Birchanger area near Summerhouse Road.  This will take less than 30 minutes, so it is a commitment of less than 3 hours per year!  We would also like a Road Steward who could cover for other Road Stewards who are on holiday as required.  Please email David Brockman if you think you can help or want more information at editor.atthebridge@gmail.com.

Coming Up / plan ahead

See the events coming up next and look up dates further ahead in the full calendar.

Can we pray for you?

***Please send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Monday Morning Reflections on Zoom
If you  would like to start your week in quiet reflection over a passage of scripture do join us at 8.45am on Mondays – you will be very welcome. For any further information please contact: Gertrud Sollars or Shan Hallam.

Wednesdays at 9AM:
Morning Prayer at Hambledon Church
Morning Prayer on Zoom

Groups & Activities

Nexus meets on the 1st Thursday of the month, with talks and activities for church members and the community. The 2023 Nexus programme can be found on Nexus.

Ladies’ Drinks takes place every 1st Friday of the month, 7.30PM at the The Pavilion by Howling Owl.

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. See the calendar event for details.

Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic takes place 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jul-Dec is now available. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

Bereavement Café – The Bereavement Café is for anyone who has been bereaved recently or some time ago and provides a safe and supportive space to come and chat with members of the pastoral care team, and others who have experienced loss. Every last Tuesday of the month in the Old Rectory. More details >>>

get involved / serving

We’re passionate about people feeling like they’re a part of our church family and one of the best places to do that is as part of a team.

No matter your age or experience, there’s a team that you can join, serving alongside others and getting to know people better in the church. You can find out about all our opportunities to serve and offer your time and talents on the Join a Team page.

Don’t forget about…

The MyChurchSuite app. It’s the easiest way to check dates, rotas, church emails, look up church members and sign up to events (without having to enter your details again and again!). Contact the Church Office if you’ve lost your login details or would like to request an account. The instructions which are now on the web site HERE.

Elsewhere

For news from all the other local churches, see:
Churches Together Link Up – NOVEMBER 2023

WANTED: ACCOMMODATION FOR YOUTH WORKER RELOCATING TO GODALMING
Wanted: self-contained flat or annexe for Christian youth worker (Ola from TTT) from early October. Quiet, respectful and tidy tenant prepared to pay rent in return for own private space. If you have, or know of such accommodation in the Godalming area, please contact andy@trinitytrustteam.co.uk.

The Yew Tree Café at Busbridge Church is open 8.30am-4pm weekdays in term time, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and 10am-4pm during school holidays.

PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY TEAM AVAILABLE

If you, or someone you know at church, are in need of support and care, please contact Sandra Wilkin via the church office, or e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org.

To contact the EMERGENCY prayer chain, email prayer@bhcgodalming.org or call 01483 421267.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

Praise for the Light Party!

Dear Friends,

We had a full house/church/Old Rectory on Tuesday evening for the first Godalming Minster Light Party! More than 100 little superheroes turned up in force to bounce in church, sumo wrestle in the chancel, make a crafty shield or search light, and hunt for stars to exchange for treats in the OR garden. Batman and Robin led a superhero workout, and there was a brilliant team of volunteers to face paint, help with craft and serve hot dogs. We should probably do it again next year!

“What an incredible evening, thank you so much. Jacob loved every minute, it was fantastic. You are superheroes too! Hope the clearing up wasn’t too horrendous!”

“Thanks to all concerned in arranging the Light Party this evening. It was a wonderful event. My two children enjoyed it; Ricky the games, Becky the craft activities in particular.”

“I just wanted to say a huge thank you to you, Ben and Marcus for the Light Party. 
The boys loved it and I was blown away by the amount on offer for the children to do and the levels of organisation. It was amazing! Thank you and please pass on our thanks to everyone involved.”

SUNDAY 5 NOVEMBER

John 13: 1-3
God with us – Service
In this Sunday’s reading, Jesus gets up from the meal to wash his disciples feet, providing a startling demonstration of master serving servant. We’ll start by asking ourselves when do we need to ‘get up from the table’ and take a practical step to serve others? 

9.30AM Muddy Church
Holloway Hill Recreation Ground
For ages 0-100. BYO cup for coffee. The forecast looks dry, but thankfully it’s still sure to be muddy!

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Hambledon Church & online

6.30PM Deanery Confirmation Service
St John’s Church, Farncombe
The 6PM congregation will not be meeting at Busbridge on 5 Nov, but are encouraged to attend the Confirmation Service to support our candidates for confirmation. Our youth director, Ben Barnes will be among the candidates, leading by example! Please pray for all those who are re-committing their lives to Jesus this Sunday.

12 November
Remembrance Sunday
GOD WITH US:  SACRIFICE. John chapter 19 v 16b to 27

10.30AM Hambledon Remembrance Service
Hambledon Church & online
10.45AM Busbridge Remembrance Service
Busbridge Church & online
6PM Busbridge Evening Service
Busbridge Church

Notices

Ladies – there’s drinks tonight at the The Pavilion by Howling Owl on Holloway Hill Rec. See you at 7.30pm for as long as you like.

Gents – there’s breakfast tomorrow at 8.15am in the Old Rectory where the national and global events of the last month will be discussed over coffee and porridge. All are very welcome.

Thanks to all those who attended the Godalming Minster prayer gathering on Monday. Chairs in different arrangements around Busbridge Church were used to guide prayers for Godalming Minster to draw in those who have left and those who are not yet part of Godalming Minster (2 empty chairs), for those in the Minster family and our community who are grieving or lonely (a single chair), and for the clergy and those in leadership (a stack of chairs). Please join us for the next prayer gathering which will be at St Peter and St Paul’s 7.30pm-8pm – date tbc, and please continue to pray for God’s blessing and guidance as we countdown to the launch of Godalming Minster on 1st January 2024.

There is now a very simple holding page for www.godalmingminster.org to direct everyone to Christmas events and services, and the existing church web sites. (Development of an exciting new web site for January is getting underway.) If you missed the short presentation at church last Sunday, you can find it HERE.

Busbridge is blessed to have a great team of Road Stewards who deliver The Bridge magazine six times per year.  We are currently looking for a volunteer to deliver in the Monteagle, Westdene and Birchanger area near Summerhouse Road.  This will take less than 30 minutes, so it is a commitment of less than 3 hours per year!  We would also like a Road Steward who could cover for other Road Stewards who are on holiday as required.  Please email David Brockman if you think you can help or want more information at editor.atthebridge@gmail.com.

NEW Hymns we Love – Fridays, 2.30pm, for 5 weeks
With the help of our Anna Chaplain and Prime Time Team member Jane Tomes, Prime Time is starting Hymns We Love – a 5 week series of sessions which uses well-loved hymns to explore the Christian faith.  Each session features a beautifully shot video set in a historic English church, and tells the story of the hymn and the gospel message behind it.  It is a series that has been developed specifically for use in groups of older adults and so is perfect for Prime Time, but may have wider appeal too. All are welcome.

Annual Memorial Service
Each year we hold a Memorial Service to remember friends and family members who have died, either recently or at any time, however long ago.  This year’s service is on Saturday 18 November at 3.00 p.m.  Invitations will be going out within the next few weeks, and there will be spare invitation letters at the back of all our churches.  During the service we read out the names of those we remember and light candles in their memory.  Refreshments are served afterwards and all are welcome to stay.  The service is open to everyone, so please put the date in your diary.It’s not too late to join the Bereavement Journey course, continuing Wednesday 1 November. Please use the link below for details, and share with anyone you know who might benefit.

For those looking ahead further, the dates for Christmas services and events are now available on the calendar, and on A church near you. Some details might get a tweak, but you can at least save the dates. You will be able to pick up a programme in church after half term. Before that there is plenty in the following notices which we kindly ask for your attention!

church family news

We send our love to Sally Morgan, whose brother Michael died in October, and whose funeral took place this week.  Please hold Sally, Owen – who has lost a dear uncle and godfather, and the whole family in your prayers. Please ask for God’s comfort and presence to be with them all.

Many will know by now that Richard Postill, son of John and Jeannie, died in hospital in Brussels on Saturday 21 October.  We send our love to Jeannie on this double bereavement.  Please pray for her, for Richard’s wife Marielle, and for Liz and the wider family, as they mourn the loss of both John and Richard – for God’s comfort and grace to enfold them all.

Liz Gorst’s father Brian died suddenly on 21st October.  Please hold Liz, Steve and James in your prayers, together with Brian’s wider family – pray for God’s peace and comfort to surround them all.

get involved / serving

We’re passionate about people feeling like they’re a part of our church family and one of the best places to do that is as part of a team.

No matter your age or experience, there’s a team that you can join, serving alongside others and getting to know people better in the church. You can find out about all our opportunities to serve and offer your time and talents on the Join a Team page.

Coming Up / plan ahead

See the events coming up next and look up dates further ahead in the full calendar.

Can we pray for you?

***Please send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Monday Morning Reflections on Zoom
If you  would like to start your week in quiet reflection over a passage of scripture do join us at 8.45am on Mondays – you will be very welcome. For any further information please contact: Gertrud Sollars or Shan Hallam.

Wednesdays at 9AM:
Morning Prayer at Hambledon Church
Morning Prayer on Zoom

Groups & Activities

Nexus meets on the 1st Thursday of the month, with talks and activities for church members and the community. The 2023 Nexus programme can be found on Nexus.

Ladies’ Drinks takes place every 1st Friday of the month, 7.30PM at the The Pavilion by Howling Owl.

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. See the calendar event for details.

Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic takes place 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jul-Dec is now available. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

Bereavement Café – The Bereavement Café is for anyone who has been bereaved recently or some time ago and provides a safe and supportive space to come and chat with members of the pastoral care team, and others who have experienced loss. Every last Tuesday of the month in the Old Rectory. More details >>>

Don’t forget about…

The MyChurchSuite app. It’s the easiest way to check dates, rotas, church emails, look up church members and sign up to events (without having to enter your details again and again!). Contact the Church Office if you’ve lost your login details or would like to request an account. The instructions which are now on the web site HERE.

Elsewhere

For news from all the other local churches, see:
Churches Together Link Up – OCTOBER 2023

WANTED: ACCOMMODATION FOR YOUTH WORKER RELOCATING TO GODALMING
Wanted: self-contained flat or annexe for Christian youth worker (Ola from TTT) from early October. Quiet, respectful and tidy tenant prepared to pay rent in return for own private space. If you have, or know of such accommodation in the Godalming area, please contact andy@trinitytrustteam.co.uk.

The Yew Tree Café at Busbridge Church is open 8.30am-4pm weekdays in term time, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and 10am-4pm during school holidays.

PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY TEAM AVAILABLE

If you, or someone you know at church, are in need of support and care, please contact Sandra Wilkin via the church office, or e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org.

To contact the EMERGENCY prayer chain, email prayer@bhcgodalming.org or call 01483 421267.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday!

Dear Friends,

It’s half-term, so the notices are “light” this week, but there is still some important stuff (and slight amendments) since last week’s edition, so please read through to check you are working with the latest information!

SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER

“Lie in” Sunday – watch out for the clocks going back!

John 2. 13-25
God with us – The Challenge

9.30AM Busbridge Contemporary Service
Busbridge Church & online
Crèche and children’s groups for ages 3-14 take place in the Old Rectory.

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Hambledon Church & online

6PM Busbridge Evening Service Social!
Inn on the Lake
On Sunday 29th October there will be a 6pm congregation social at the Inn on the Lake. There is  no evening service as it is a 5th Sunday. The service team will be there to greet you so do come and join us for a drink and a chat. All welcome. 

Notices

A call to prayer for Godalming Minster, Monday 30 Oct, 7.30pm – as we countdown to the legal establishment of Godalming Minster on 1 Jan 2024, a prayer gathering will take place on Monday 30th October, from 7.30-8PM at Busbridge Church. All from the parishes of Godalming, Busbridge and Hambledon are encouraged to attend.

The last Bible Course session took place last Thursday at St Mark’s.  Sheila and Keith were overwhelmed with joy and thanks at having 23 attendees (representing all the Minster churches and others).  Please pray for “next steps” – for attendees and future courses.

Sunday 5th November, 6.30pm – Confirmation Service at St John’s, Farncombe
The 6PM congregation will not be meeting at Busbridge on 5 Nov, but are encouraged, with others, to attend the Confirmation Service to support our candidates for confirmation, including Ben Barnes and members of Ichthus. Please pray for these young people who are giving their lives to Jesus, and that our work as Godalming Minster to “grow younger” yields many more! If you would like to find out about confirmation please contact Simon Taylor e: simon.taylor@bhcgodalming.org.

Busbridge is blessed to have a great team of Road Stewards who deliver The Bridge magazine six times per year.  We are currently looking for a volunteer to deliver in the Monteagle, Westdene and Birchanger area near Summerhouse Road.  This will take less than 30 minutes, so it is a commitment of less than 3 hours per year!  We would also like a Road Steward who could cover for other Road Stewards who are on holiday as required.  Please email David Brockman if you think you can help or want more information at editor.atthebridge@gmail.com.

We have nearly 100 children signed up to the Light Party, and need more helpers who are not already accompanying children. It will be very good fun indeed! Please complete the online form below.

NEXUS
Thursday 2nd November 8.00pm in Busbridge Old Rectory: Norwegian Expedition in Photos, shown by Helen Sturney
Helen has kindly offered to share with us her experiences of a cruise to see the Northern Lights in Norway.  This included expeditions in rigid inflatable boats and visiting the most northerly point in Norway’s Artic Circle.  For us, this will be a photographic adventure, including pictures of the Ice Cathedral and other Norwegian wonders.  Come and enjoy this and more in the warmth and comfort of our familiar Minster Room venue!

We’ll meet in the Busbridge Old Rectory at 8.00pm.  The evening will start with refreshments and a chance to mingle and meet new people. We’ll then hand over to Helen for her photo presentation.

NEW Hymns we Love – Fridays, 2.30pm, for 5 weeks
With the help of our Anna Chaplain and Prime Time Team member Jane Tomes, Prime Time is starting Hymns We Love – a 5 week series of sessions which uses well-loved hymns to explore the Christian faith.  Each session features a beautifully shot video set in a historic English church, and tells the story of the hymn and the gospel message behind it.  It is a series that has been developed specifically for use in groups of older adults and so is perfect for Prime Time, but may have wider appeal too. All are welcome.

Annual Memorial Service
Each year we hold a Memorial Service to remember friends and family members who have died, either recently or at any time, however long ago.  This year’s service is on Saturday 18 November at 3.00 p.m.  Invitations will be going out within the next few weeks, and there will be spare invitation letters at the back of all our churches.  During the service we read out the names of those we remember and light candles in their memory.  Refreshments are served afterwards and all are welcome to stay.  The service is open to everyone, so please put the date in your diary.It’s not too late to join the Bereavement Journey course, continuing Wednesday 1 November. Please use the link below for details, and share with anyone you know who might benefit.

For those looking ahead further, the dates for Christmas services and events are now available on the calendar, and on A church near you. Some details might get a tweak, but you can at least save the dates. You will be able to pick up a programme in church after half term. Before that there is plenty in the following notices which we kindly ask for your attention!

church family news

Last Saturday’s Thanksgiving service for the life of Rev John Postill is now available, with sound, here: https://youtu.be/mv1cfRzt7js.  

“A humongous thank you to everyone who so kindly helped to ensure John’s Thanksgiving Service and afterwards went smoothly.  Everyone was so helpful whatever the task.” Jeannie.

get involved / serving

We’re passionate about people feeling like they’re a part of our church family and one of the best places to do that is as part of a team.

No matter your age or experience, there’s a team that you can join, serving alongside others and getting to know people better in the church. You can find out about all our opportunities to serve and offer your time and talents on the Join a Team page.

Coming Up / plan ahead

See the events coming up next and look up dates further ahead in the full calendar.

Can we pray for you?

***Please send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Monday Morning Reflections on Zoom
If you  would like to start your week in quiet reflection over a passage of scripture do join us at 8.45am on Mondays – you will be very welcome. For any further information please contact: Gertrud Sollars or Shan Hallam.

Wednesdays at 9AM:
Morning Prayer at Hambledon Church
Morning Prayer on Zoom

Groups & Activities

Nexus meets on the 1st Thursday of the month, with talks and activities for church members and the community. The 2023 Nexus programme can be found on Nexus.

Ladies’ Drinks takes place every 1st Friday of the month, 7.30PM at the The Pavilion by Howling Owl.

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. See the calendar event for details.

Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic takes place 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jul-Dec is now available. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

Bereavement Café – The Bereavement Café is for anyone who has been bereaved recently or some time ago and provides a safe and supportive space to come and chat with members of the pastoral care team, and others who have experienced loss. Every last Tuesday of the month in the Old Rectory. More details >>>

Don’t forget about…

The MyChurchSuite app. It’s the easiest way to check dates, rotas, church emails, look up church members and sign up to events (without having to enter your details again and again!). Contact the Church Office if you’ve lost your login details or would like to request an account. The instructions which are now on the web site HERE.

Elsewhere

For news from all the other local churches, see:
Churches Together Link Up – OCTOBER 2023

WANTED: ACCOMMODATION FOR YOUTH WORKER RELOCATING TO GODALMING
Wanted: self-contained flat or annexe for Christian youth worker (Ola from TTT) from early October. Quiet, respectful and tidy tenant prepared to pay rent in return for own private space. If you have, or know of such accommodation in the Godalming area, please contact andy@trinitytrustteam.co.uk.

The Yew Tree Café at Busbridge Church is open 8.30am-4pm weekdays in term time, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and 10am-4pm during school holidays.

PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY TEAM AVAILABLE

If you, or someone you know at church, are in need of support and care, please contact Sandra Wilkin via the church office, or e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org.

To contact the EMERGENCY prayer chain, email prayer@bhcgodalming.org or call 01483 421267.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday!

Dear Friends,

Take Courage

‘Take Courage’ is the title of the Autumn sermon series starting this Sunday.  We start with John chapter 1 which reminds us that ‘God is with us’ in times of change and uncertainty.  We will continue to explore the themes of Challenge, Service, Sacrifice and finally Hope and Reconciliation with further readings from John’s gospel.  Home Groups are exploring the same themes after half-term too. 

This Sunday is the start of school half-term (hoorah!) and while the notices, and some activities will be taking a break, not everything stops at BHC. Please check the calendar.

For those looking ahead further, the dates for Christmas services and events are now available on the calendar, and on A church near you. Some details might get a tweak, but you can at least save the dates. You will be able to pick up a programme in church after half term. Before that there is plenty in the following notices which we kindly ask for your attention!

SUNDAY 22 OCTOBER

John 1. 1-18
Take Courage. God is with us.

9.30AM Busbridge Contemporary Service
Busbridge Church & online
Led by Simon Taylor / Speaker Peter Shaw
Crèche and children’s groups for ages 3-14 take a break for half-term. Activity bags available for those in church. (Groups are back on for Sunday 29th Oct!)

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Busbridge Church & online
Led by Patrick Samuels / Speaker Peter Shaw

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Hambledon Church
Led by Simon Willetts

6PM Busbridge Evening Service [Holy Communion]
Busbridge Church
Led by Patrick Samuels / Speaker Simon Willetts

SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER

“Lie in” Sunday – watch out for the clocks going back!

John 2. 13-25
God with us – The Challenge

9.30AM Busbridge Contemporary Service
Busbridge Church & online
Crèche and children’s groups for ages 3-14 take place in the Old Rectory.

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Hambledon Church

6PM Busbridge Evening Service
Busbridge Church

Notices

A call to prayer for Godalming Minster – as we countdown to the legal establishment of Godalming Minster on 1 Jan 2024, a prayer gathering will take place on Monday 30th October, from 7.30-8PM at Busbridge Church. All from the parishes of Godalming, Busbridge and Hambledon are encouraged to attend.

Prayer for the Gaza-Israel conflict, continuing prayers for other situations will be included in our intercessions this Sunday, and regular prayer gatherings (see below).

We have nearly 100 children signed up to the Light Party, and need more helpers who are not already accompanying children. It will be very good fun indeed! Please complete the online form below.

Sunday 5th November, 6.30pm – Confirmation Service at St John’s, Farncombe
The 6PM congregation will not be meeting at Busbridge on 5 Nov, but are encouraged, with others, to attend the Confirmation Service to support our candidates for confirmation, including Ben Barnes and members of Ichthus. If you would like to find out about confirmation please contact Simon Taylor e: simon.taylor@bhcgodalming.org.

Please pray for these young people who are giving their lives to Jesus, and that our work as Godalming Minster to “grow younger” yields many more!

Annual Memorial Service
Each year we hold a Memorial Service to remember friends and family members who have died, either recently or at any time, however long ago.  This year’s service is on Saturday 18 November at 3.00 p.m.  Invitations will be going out within the next few weeks, and there will be spare invitation letters at the back of all our churches.  During the service we read out the names of those we remember and light candles in their memory.  Refreshments are served afterwards and all are welcome to stay.  The service is open to everyone, so please put the date in your diary.It’s not too late to join the Bereavement Journey course, continuing Wednesday 1 November. Please use the link below for details, and share with anyone you know who might benefit.

NEW Hymns we Love – Fridays, 2.30pm, for 5 weeks
With the help of our Anna Chaplain and Prime Time Team member Jane Tomes, Prime Time is starting Hymns We Love – a 5 week series of sessions which uses well-loved hymns to explore the Christian faith.  Each session features a beautifully shot video set in a historic English church, and tells the story of the hymn and the gospel message behind it.  It is a series that has been developed specifically for use in groups of older adults and so is perfect for Prime Time, but may have wider appeal too. All are welcome.

NEXUS
Thursday 2nd November 8.00pm in Busbridge Old Rectory: Norwegian Expedition in Photos, shown by Helen Sturney
Helen has kindly offered to share with us her experiences of a cruise to see the Northern Lights in Norway.  This included expeditions in rigid inflatable boats and visiting the most northerly point in Norway’s Artic Circle.  For us, this will be a photographic adventure, including pictures of the Ice Cathedral and other Norwegian wonders.  Come and enjoy this and more in the warmth and comfort of our familiar Minster Room venue!

We’ll meet in the Busbridge Old Rectory at 8.00pm.  The evening will start with refreshments and a chance to mingle and meet new people. We’ll then hand over to Helen for her photo presentation.

church family news

A service of Thanksgiving for the life of John Postill will take place at Busbridge Church on Saturday 21st October, at 2pm, followed by refreshments in the Yew Tree Café. All are welcome to celebrate the life of John, and for those who would like to join online, the service will be livestreamed is here: https://youtube.com/live/yWwQpe_1V4c?feature=share

get involved / serving

We’re passionate about people feeling like they’re a part of our church family and one of the best places to do that is as part of a team.

No matter your age or experience, there’s a team that you can join, serving alongside others and getting to know people better in the church. You can find out about all our opportunities to serve and offer your time and talents on the Join a Team page.

Coming Up / plan ahead

See the events coming up next and look up dates further ahead in the full calendar.

Can we pray for you?

***Please send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Monday Morning Reflections on Zoom
We shall resume our sessions on Monday 4th September at 8.45am on Zoom. If you  would like to start your week in quiet reflection over a passage of scripture do join us in September – you will be very welcome. For any further information please contact: Gertrud Sollars or Shan Hallam.

Wednesdays at 9AM: Morning Prayer at Hambledon Church

Groups & Activities

Nexus meets on the 1st Thursday of the month, with talks and activities for church members and the community. The 2023 Nexus programme can be found on Nexus.

Ladies’ Drinks takes place every 1st Friday of the month, 7.30PM at the The Pavilion by Howling Owl.

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. See the calendar event for details.

Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic takes place 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jul-Dec is now available. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

Bereavement Café – The Bereavement Café is for anyone who has been bereaved recently or some time ago and provides a safe and supportive space to come and chat with members of the pastoral care team, and others who have experienced loss. Every last Tuesday of the month in the Old Rectory. More details >>>

Don’t forget about…

The MyChurchSuite app. It’s the easiest way to check dates, rotas, church emails, look up church members and sign up to events (without having to enter your details again and again!). Contact the Church Office if you’ve lost your login details or would like to request an account. The instructions which are now on the web site HERE.

Elsewhere

The new Bishop of Dorking (Paul Davies) is being welcomed at Evensong on Sunday 8th October, at Guildford Cathedral. Book your (free) ticket via the Cathedral box office.

For news from all the other local churches, see:
Churches Together Link Up – SEPTEMBER 2023

Godalming Baptist Church Life Issues talks
See the full 2023 Life Issues programme.
To book a place contact Sally Pollard-pollard3@hotmail.co.uk or tel-01483-428646.
Next talk: Anxiety, Fear and Panic

WANTED: ACCOMMODATION FOR YOUTH WORKER RELOCATING TO GODALMING
Wanted: self-contained flat or annexe for Christian youth worker (Ola from TTT) from early October. Quiet, respectful and tidy tenant prepared to pay rent in return for own private space. If you have, or know of such accommodation in the Godalming area, please contact andy@trinitytrustteam.co.uk.

Week of Accompanied Prayer The Guildford network of spiritual directors is offering a week of accompanied prayer from 8.-13th October this year. A week of accompanied prayer is a bit like a retreat from home – you meet once a day (in person or on zoom) with a retreat guide who will suggest Bible passages to pray with and meditate on and talk about what you find. Participants in the past have found a week like this to deepen their prayer life and their walk with God; it also gives you a taste of what spiritual direction is about. Gertrud Sollars (gertrud.sollars@btinternet.com) has more information. See the flyer and application form.

MODERN SLAVERY,  RIGHT HERE , RIGHT NOW
An awareness event, Saturday 21st October, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford, GU1 3TY. 9:30-3pm Talks will be given by DCI Kerry Loveless, Surrey Police and South-east regional lead for Modern Slavery and Allison Sutcliffe Diocese Modern Slavery Advisor.

Guildford Mothers Union is pleased to have been invited by the Diocese to have a stand and would love members to join us in ‘manning it’ for whatever time you can spare, or just support the event, and spread the word.   Please let one of us know: Dorothea (dorothea.nattrass@gmail.com, 01428 653216) / or Diana (diana@parenting@gmail.com,  07782186229).

The Yew Tree Café at Busbridge Church is open 8.30am-4pm weekdays in term time, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and 10am-4pm during school holidays.

PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY TEAM AVAILABLE

If you, or someone you know at church, are in need of support and care, please contact Sandra Wilkin via the church office, or e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org.

To contact the EMERGENCY prayer chain, email prayer@bhcgodalming.org or call 01483 421267.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday!

SUNDAY 15 OCTOBER

2 Cor 1:18-23
It’s a “yes” (to Jesus) from me!  

9.30AM Busbridge Contemporary Service [Holy Communion]
Busbridge Church & online
with crèche and children’s groups for ages 3-14 – all in the Old Rectory

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Hambledon Church

4PM Messy Church
Hambledon Village Hall

Notices

Sunday 5th November, 6.30pm – Confirmation Service at St John’s, Farncombe
The 6PM congregation will not be meeting at Busbridge on 5 Nov, but are encouraged, with others, to attend the Confirmation Service to support our candidates for confirmation, including Ben Barnes and members of Ichthus.

Annual Memorial Service
Each year we hold a Memorial Service to remember friends and family members who have died, either recently or at any time, however long ago.  This year’s service is on Saturday 18 November at 3.00 p.m.  Invitations will be going out within the next few weeks, and there will be spare invitation letters at the back of all our churches.  During the service we read out the names of those we remember and light candles in their memory.  Refreshments are served afterwards and all are welcome to stay.  The service is open to everyone, so please put the date in your diary.

There are still places on the next Bereavement Journey course, 7 sessions starting Wednesday 18 October. Please use the link below for details, and share with anyone you know who might benefit.

NEW Hymns in the Afternoon – Friday 13th October, 2.30pm, for 5 weeks
With the help of our Anna Chaplain and Prime Time Team member Jane Tomes, Prime Time is starting Hymns We Love – a 5 week series of sessions which uses well-loved hymns to explore the Christian faith.  Each session features a beautifully shot video set in a historic English church, and tells the story of the hymn and the gospel message behind it.  It is a series that has been developed specifically for use in groups of older adults and so is perfect for Prime Time, but may have wider appeal too. All are welcome.

Invitation to join a Small Group
It’s a great time to try a mid-week small group, and there is a new group starting on Thursday evenings, hosted by Debs and Tom Jones and led by Hilary Pettman. Please let Hilary know if you would like to find out more.

The group which meets fortnightly on Tuesday mornings (9.20am – 11am) seeks new members interested in joining them for the September term.  All ages welcome. Please contact Cathy Brook via My ChurchSuite or the church office for more details.

A Wednesday evening group would also welcome new members. Please let Margot Spencer e: margot.spencer@bhcgodalming.org know if this is a good time for you!

Confirmation
Several young people will be confirmed during the Deanery confirmation service at St John’s, Farncombe on 5th November. If you would like to find out about confirmation please contact Simon Taylor e: simon.taylor@bhcgodalming.org.

Please pray for these young people who are giving their lives to Jesus, and that our work as Godalming Minster to “grow younger” yields many more!

church family news

The funeral of Malcolm Brunning will be held in Godalming Parish Church on 13th October 2023 at 3:00 pm.

A service of Thanksgiving for the life of John Postill will take place at Busbridge Church on Saturday 21st October, at 2pm, followed by refreshments in the Yew Tree Café.

get involved / serving

We’re passionate about people feeling like they’re a part of our church family and one of the best places to do that is as part of a team.

No matter your age or experience, there’s a team that you can join, serving alongside others and getting to know people better in the church. You can find out about all our opportunities to serve and offer your time and talents on the Join a Team page.

Coming Up / plan ahead

See the events coming up next and look up dates further ahead in the full calendar.

Can we pray for you?

***Please send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Monday Morning Reflections on Zoom
We shall resume our sessions on Monday 4th September at 8.45am on Zoom. If you  would like to start your week in quiet reflection over a passage of scripture do join us in September – you will be very welcome. For any further information please contact: Gertrud Sollars or Shan Hallam.

Wednesdays at 9AM: Morning Prayer at Hambledon Church

Groups & Activities

Nexus meets on the 1st Thursday of the month, with talks and activities for church members and the community. The 2023 Nexus programme can be found on Nexus.

Ladies’ Drinks takes place every 1st Friday of the month, 7.30PM at the The Pavilion by Howling Owl.

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. See the calendar event for details.

Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic takes place 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jul-Dec is now available. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

Bereavement Café – The Bereavement Café is for anyone who has been bereaved recently or some time ago and provides a safe and supportive space to come and chat with members of the pastoral care team, and others who have experienced loss. Every last Tuesday of the month in the Old Rectory. More details >>>

Don’t forget about…

The MyChurchSuite app. It’s the easiest way to check dates, rotas, church emails, look up church members and sign up to events (without having to enter your details again and again!). Contact the Church Office if you’ve lost your login details or would like to request an account. The instructions which are now on the web site HERE.

Elsewhere

The new Bishop of Dorking (Paul Davies) is being welcomed at Evensong on Sunday 8th October, at Guildford Cathedral. Book your (free) ticket via the Cathedral box office.

For news from all the other local churches, see:
Churches Together Link Up – SEPTEMBER 2023

Godalming Baptist Church Life Issues talks
See the full 2023 Life Issues programme.
To book a place contact Sally Pollard-pollard3@hotmail.co.uk or tel-01483-428646.
Next talk: Anxiety, Fear and Panic

WANTED: ACCOMMODATION FOR YOUTH WORKER RELOCATING TO GODALMING
Wanted: self-contained flat or annexe for Christian youth worker (Ola from TTT) from early October. Quiet, respectful and tidy tenant prepared to pay rent in return for own private space. If you have, or know of such accommodation in the Godalming area, please contact andy@trinitytrustteam.co.uk.

Week of Accompanied Prayer The Guildford network of spiritual directors is offering a week of accompanied prayer from 8.-13th October this year. A week of accompanied prayer is a bit like a retreat from home – you meet once a day (in person or on zoom) with a retreat guide who will suggest Bible passages to pray with and meditate on and talk about what you find. Participants in the past have found a week like this to deepen their prayer life and their walk with God; it also gives you a taste of what spiritual direction is about. Gertrud Sollars (gertrud.sollars@btinternet.com) has more information. See the flyer and application form.

MODERN SLAVERY,  RIGHT HERE , RIGHT NOW
An awareness event, Saturday 21st October, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford, GU1 3TY. 9:30-3pm Talks will be given by DCI Kerry Loveless, Surrey Police and South-east regional lead for Modern Slavery and Allison Sutcliffe Diocese Modern Slavery Advisor.

Guildford Mothers Union is pleased to have been invited by the Diocese to have a stand and would love members to join us in ‘manning it’ for whatever time you can spare, or just support the event, and spread the word.   Please let one of us know: Dorothea (dorothea.nattrass@gmail.com, 01428 653216) / or Diana (diana@parenting@gmail.com,  07782186229).

The Yew Tree Café at Busbridge Church is open 8.30am-4pm weekdays in term time, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and 10am-4pm during school holidays.

PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY TEAM AVAILABLE

If you, or someone you know at church, are in need of support and care, please contact Sandra Wilkin via the church office, or e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org.

To contact the EMERGENCY prayer chain, email prayer@bhcgodalming.org or call 01483 421267.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

Dear Friends,

Join us for Harvest this Sunday when we’ll be hearing from the trustees of Mechanics for Africa – a very local Christian charity working in Zambia, and gathering non-perishable harvest gifts for the Food Bank. See the shopping list on parishofgodalming.org.uk/st-marks-food-bank/

Harvest also seems a natural time to reflect on some of the early signs of reward from some of the pioneering Minster activities. Just in the last week there have been some lovely stories from the first Minster Pet Service at Hambledon last Sunday, and the Pre-Marriage Course last Saturday. Revs Sheila and Patrick Samuels led prayers at Godalming Council for the start of Black History month, a great privilege and opportunity, which we give thanks for. Surely the baptism of one of our Pathfinders at the 6pm service is cause for celebration too? Let’s be encouraged by those who are stepping in, and stepping up, and join them!

As well as Mission Sunday, there is no shortage of ways you can exercise your gifts or connect with a church group, whatever your interest:

Tonight at 8pm (Thursday 5th Oct) at Nexus, another of our local mission partners will be profiled when two of our church volunteer mentors at HMP Send will be sharing their experience and passion for supporting female prisoners. (Come along at 8pm to the Old Rectory).

Ladies are invited for a drink at the Pavilion at the Howling Owl tomorrow, Friday, from 7.30pm.

The Men’s Breakfast is tackling the topic of recent “church” involvement in policy and politics over tea, toast and porridge – 8.15am in the Old Rectory. (And while they are at it, a small team will be doing a little early morning reordering at St Peter & St Paul’s – more heavy lifters welcome).

You can then learn or brush up on your Sunday role as Welcomer, prayer leader, preacher or service leader at the workshop running from 9.30-11.30am.

More details for all of the above can be found in the notices to follow.

SERVICES this Sunday

Psalm 145
Sharing God’s Abundant Goodness

9.30AM Busbridge Contemporary Service
Leader: Simon Taylor | Speaker: Suzie Lambert
& joined by Richard Rowe, Mechanics for Africa
Busbridge Church & online
with crèche and children’s groups for ages 3-14 – all in the Old Rectory

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Leader: Simon Taylor | Speaker: Chris Payne
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship [Holy Communion]
Leader: Margot Spencer joined by Susie Mooney, Mechanics for Africa
Hambledon Church

6PM Busbridge Evening Service
Leader: Simon Taylor
Busbridge Church

NEXT SUNDAY 15 OCTOBER

2 Cor 1:18-23
It’s a “yes” (to Jesus) from me!  

9.30AM Busbridge Contemporary Service [Holy Communion]
Busbridge Church & online
with crèche and children’s groups for ages 3-14 – all in the Old Rectory

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Hambledon Church

4PM Messy Church
Hambledon Village Hall

Notices

Harvest – 8th October
Harvest will be celebrated in all services on 8th October, with the traditional gathering of non-perishable gifts for the Godalming Food Bank at St Mark’s. (The Foodbank and Godalming & Villages Community Store share any surplus with each other to keep both locations stocked). Please check the web page for the “most wanted” items and bring them along to services next Sunday. Volunteers to transport the the gifts from Busbridge or Hambledon to the Foodbank on Franklyn Road the following week would be great. Please let the office know if you can help.

BHC also runs an outward giving appeal at key times of the year (Easter, Harvest and Christmas), and this year the Harvest Appeal is in aid of Mechanics for Africa. The web site gives a great impression of the charity and it’s work, and there’s a special update for BHC congregations. Give to Mechanics for Africa online now >>> Ref. Harvest.

Nexus Talk on Thurs 5th October 8.00pm Busbridge Old Rectory: Making Connections Project – Send Prison
Volunteer mentors Caroline L and Penny H (contemporary congregation members) will talk about some aspects of life in the prison, and the Making Connections Project – funded by the Nazareth Way chaplaincy charity, which is one of BHC’s key mission partners.  This project provides discretionary grants to prisoners being discharged to help them survive in their first few days after release until benefits become available. It will be enlightening to get some insight into life at the Prison where the focus is on personal development and preparing women for getting back into the outside world after they have served their term. The evening will start with drinks and nibbles to give us a chance to mingle and meet new people. £5 entry fee, or £20 for annual membership.

Annual Memorial Service
Each year we hold a Memorial Service to remember friends and family members who have died, either recently or at any time, however long ago.  This year’s service is on Saturday 18 November at 3.00 p.m.  Invitations will be going out within the next few weeks, and there will be spare invitation letters at the back of all our churches.  During the service we read out the names of those we remember and light candles in their memory.  Refreshments are served afterwards and all are welcome to stay.  The service is open to everyone, so please put the date in your diary.

All Roles Sunday Service Workshop – Sat 7 Oct
For those who serve as welcomers, service leaders, readers, and leaders of intercessions, AND those who would like to join the team in one of these roles.

Margot and Simon W will lead the workshop from 09.30 to 11.30 consisting of several distinct sessions:

All timings ‘ish’ –

0930 – 0945     welcome and refreshments
0945 – 1015      welcoming
1015 – 1030      reading
1030 – 1100      intercessions
1100 – 1130/45 service leading

Depending on how you wish to serve, you don’t need to attend the full 2 hours, (though it might help to understand the other roles), but it would be great if you could make the bit that is relevant to what you do.  Here’s the link to the event.  It would be super if you could sign up HERE.  

Coffee and croissants will be provided by one of the team!

MINSTER NEWS!
In readiness for Godalming Minster and the welcoming in of the now and new, St Peter and St Paul’s will shortly begin phase 1 of its reordering plans! Think space for the band, a coffee station at the back….so contemporary worshippers can feel at home and start to dream. The first step is to remove some pews, reposition others, extend the chancel area and create a level, open space at the rear of the nave. This project will be led by Will (SSPP warden) and Ken who looks after maintenance of the church, and they are requesting additional support:

Able bodied help wanted for moving pews at St Peter and St Paul’s – Sat 7th Oct, 8AM
The Christian Science church has offered to store some of the pews that can’t be discarded, so if you can help load them on and off the lorry on the morning of Sat 7 October, please let the church office know. John Harkin writes:

“If we can achieve phase 1 within the timeframe, the AV company will be able to move in during November (subject to all the AV parts being available) and install the new system so that everything is ready for … January 2024. This is an exciting time in the life and future witness of SPSP and the whole Minster parish. Thank you for your (practical) support and prayers.”

There are still places on the next Bereavement Journey course, 7 sessions starting Wednesday 18 October. Please use the link below for details, and share with anyone you know who might benefit.

NEW Hymns in the Afternoon – Friday 13th October, 2.30pm, for 5 weeks
With the help of our Anna Chaplain and Prime Time Team member Jane Tomes, Prime Time is starting Hymns We Love – a 5 week series of sessions which uses well-loved hymns to explore the Christian faith.  Each session features a beautifully shot video set in a historic English church, and tells the story of the hymn and the gospel message behind it.  It is a series that has been developed specifically for use in groups of older adults and so is perfect for Prime Time, but may have wider appeal too. All are welcome.

Invitation to join a Small Group
It’s a great time to try a mid-week small group, and there is a new group starting on Thursday evenings, hosted by Debs and Tom Jones and led by Hilary Pettman. Please let Hilary know if you would like to find out more.

The group which meets fortnightly on Tuesday mornings (9.20am – 11am) seeks new members interested in joining them for the September term.  All ages welcome. Please contact Cathy Brook via My ChurchSuite or the church office for more details.

A Wednesday evening group would also welcome new members. Please let Margot Spencer e: margot.spencer@bhcgodalming.org know if this is a good time for you!

Confirmation
Several young people will be confirmed during the Deanery confirmation service at St John’s, Farncombe on 5th November. If you would like to find out about confirmation please contact Simon Taylor e: simon.taylor@bhcgodalming.org.

Please pray for these young people who are giving their lives to Jesus, and that our work as Godalming Minster to “grow younger” yields many more!

church family news

The funeral of Paul Unwin will take place at Hambledon Church on Thursday 12th October at 1pm.

The funeral of Malcolm Brunning will be held in Godalming Parish Church on 13th October 2023 at 3:00 pm.

A service of Thanksgiving for the life of John Postill will take place at Busbridge Church on Saturday 21st October, at 2pm, followed by refreshments in the Yew Tree Café.

get involved / serving

We’re passionate about people feeling like they’re a part of our church family and one of the best places to do that is as part of a team.

No matter your age or experience, there’s a team that you can join, serving alongside others and getting to know people better in the church. You can find out about all our opportunities to serve and offer your time and talents on the Join a Team page.

Coming Up / plan ahead

See the events coming up next and look up dates further ahead in the full calendar.

Can we pray for you?

***Please send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Monday Morning Reflections on Zoom
We shall resume our sessions on Monday 4th September at 8.45am on Zoom. If you  would like to start your week in quiet reflection over a passage of scripture do join us in September – you will be very welcome. For any further information please contact: Gertrud Sollars or Shan Hallam.

Wednesdays at 9AM: Morning Prayer at Hambledon Church

Groups & Activities

Nexus meets on the 1st Thursday of the month, with talks and activities for church members and the community. The 2023 Nexus programme can be found on Nexus.

Ladies’ Drinks takes place every 1st Friday of the month, 7.30PM at the The Pavilion by Howling Owl.

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. See the calendar event for details.

Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic takes place 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jul-Dec is now available. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

Bereavement Café – The Bereavement Café is for anyone who has been bereaved recently or some time ago and provides a safe and supportive space to come and chat with members of the pastoral care team, and others who have experienced loss. Every last Tuesday of the month in the Old Rectory. More details >>>

Don’t forget about…

The MyChurchSuite app. It’s the easiest way to check dates, rotas, church emails, look up church members and sign up to events (without having to enter your details again and again!). Contact the Church Office if you’ve lost your login details or would like to request an account. The instructions which are now on the web site HERE.

Elsewhere

The new Bishop of Dorking (Paul Davies) is being welcomed at Evensong on Sunday 8th October, at Guildford Cathedral. Book your (free) ticket via the Cathedral box office.

For news from all the other local churches, see:
Churches Together Link Up – SEPTEMBER 2023

Godalming Baptist Church Life Issues talks
See the full 2023 Life Issues programme.
To book a place contact Sally Pollard-pollard3@hotmail.co.uk or tel-01483-428646.
Next talk: Anxiety, Fear and Panic

WANTED: ACCOMMODATION FOR YOUTH WORKER RELOCATING TO GODALMING
Wanted: self-contained flat or annexe for Christian youth worker (Ola from TTT) from early October. Quiet, respectful and tidy tenant prepared to pay rent in return for own private space. If you have, or know of such accommodation in the Godalming area, please contact andy@trinitytrustteam.co.uk.

Week of Accompanied Prayer The Guildford network of spiritual directors is offering a week of accompanied prayer from 8.-13th October this year. A week of accompanied prayer is a bit like a retreat from home – you meet once a day (in person or on zoom) with a retreat guide who will suggest Bible passages to pray with and meditate on and talk about what you find. Participants in the past have found a week like this to deepen their prayer life and their walk with God; it also gives you a taste of what spiritual direction is about. Gertrud Sollars (gertrud.sollars@btinternet.com) has more information. See the flyer and application form.

MODERN SLAVERY,  RIGHT HERE , RIGHT NOW
An awareness event, Saturday 21st October, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford, GU1 3TY. 9:30-3pm Talks will be given by DCI Kerry Loveless, Surrey Police and South-east regional lead for Modern Slavery and Allison Sutcliffe Diocese Modern Slavery Advisor.

Guildford Mothers Union is pleased to have been invited by the Diocese to have a stand and would love members to join us in ‘manning it’ for whatever time you can spare, or just support the event, and spread the word.   Please let one of us know: Dorothea (dorothea.nattrass@gmail.com, 01428 653216) / or Diana (diana@parenting@gmail.com,  07782186229).

The Yew Tree Café at Busbridge Church is open 8.30am-4pm weekdays in term time, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and 10am-4pm during school holidays.

PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY TEAM AVAILABLE

If you, or someone you know at church, are in need of support and care, please contact Sandra Wilkin via the church office, or e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org.

To contact the EMERGENCY prayer chain, email prayer@bhcgodalming.org or call 01483 421267.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

Dear Friends,

Muddy, Messy and Hambledon are all looking forward to the first Pet Service this Sunday – now outdoors to avoid congestion in the aisles! We do hope to see you there with your beloved furry (or scaly) friend.

The following is probably common sense and might raise an eyebrow or a smile, but thank you for your cooperation!

• Owners are responsible and liable for their own pets.

• Keep dogs on short leads and bring small and exotic animals in cages or other suitable containers.

• If your pet is particularly timid or unruly, please leave them at home and bring a photo instead.

• We will try to set aside an area for people with allergies or phobias, but you attend at your own risk.

• We plan to be outside so come prepared for the weather conditions.

• Overflow parking is available in Hambledon Nursery School.

It will be a shortish service, and the coffee and croissant will be shared before you know it, but if that all sounds a little on the wild side:

Also this Sunday 1st October

Topic: Stepping out in Faith
| Deuteronomy 1: 3-18

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service [Holy Communion]
Busbridge Church & online

6PM Busbridge Evening Service with baptism
Busbridge Church

We give thanks that one of our young people has chosen to be baptised, and this will take place at Busbridge Church during the 6pm service this Sunday.

Notices

All Roles Sunday Service Workshop – Sat 7 Oct
For those who serve as welcomers, service leaders, readers, and leaders of intercessions, AND those who would like to join the team in one of these roles.

Margot and Simon W will lead the workshop from 09.30 to 11.30 consisting of several distinct sessions:

All timings ‘ish’ –

0930 – 0945     welcome and refreshments
0945 – 1015      welcoming
1015 – 1030      reading
1030 – 1100      intercessions
1100 – 1130/45 service leading

Depending on how you wish to serve, you don’t need to attend the full 2 hours, (though it might help to understand the other roles), but it would be great if you could make the bit that is relevant to what you do.  Here’s the link to the event.  It would be super if you could sign up HERE.  

Coffee and croissants will be provided by one of the team!

MINSTER NEWS!
In readiness for Godalming Minster and the welcoming in of the now and new, St Peter and St Paul’s will shortly begin phase 1 of its reordering plans! Think space for the band, a coffee station at the back….so contemporary worshippers can feel at home and start to dream. The first step is to remove some pews, reposition some of them, extend the chancel area and create a level, open space at the rear of the nave. This project will be led by Will (SSPP warden) and Ken who looks after maintenance of the church, and they are requesting additional support:

Able bodied help wanted for moving pews at St Peter and St Paul’s – Sat 7th Oct, AM
The Christian Science church has offered to store some of the pews that can’t be discarded, so if you can help load them on and off the trailer on the morning of Sat 7 October, please let the church office know. John Harkin writes:

“If we can achieve phase 1 within the timeframe, the AV company will be able to move in during November (subject to all the AV parts being available) and install the new system so that everything is ready for … January 2024. This is an exciting time in the life and future witness of SPSP and the whole Minster parish. Thank you for your (practical) support and prayers.”

Confirmation
Several young people will be confirmed during the Deanery confirmation service at St John’s, Farncombe on 5th November. If you would like to find out about confirmation please contact Simon Taylor e: simon.taylor@bhcgodalming.org.

Please pray for these young people who are giving their lives to Jesus, and that our work as Godalming Minster to “grow younger” yields many more!

Harvest – 8th October
Harvest will be celebrated in all services on 8th October, with the traditional gathering of non-perishable gifts for the Godalming Food Bank at St Mark’s. (The Foodbank and Godalming & Villages Community Store share any surplus with each other to keep both locations stocked). Please check the web page for the “most wanted” items and bring them along to services next Sunday. Volunteers to transport the the gifts from Busbridge or Hambledon to the Foodbank on Franklyn Road the following week would be great. Please let the office know if you can help.

BHC also runs an outward giving appeal at key times of the year (Easter, Harvest and Christmas), and this year the Harvest Appeal is in aid of Mechanics for Africa. The web site gives a great impression of the charity and it’s work, and there will be more information available next week. Representatives from MfA will be interviewed on 8th October too. Give to Mechanics for Africa online now >>> Ref. Harvest.

Nexus Talk on Thurs 5th October 8.00pm Busbridge Old Rectory

Making Connections Project – Send Prison

Volunteer mentors Caroline L and Penny H (contemporary congregation members) will share some aspects of life in the prison. They both have a passion for the work that they do there with Lesley Mason MBE, Send Prison Chaplain.  

This includes the important Making Connections Project – funded by the Nazareth Way chaplaincy charity, which is one of BHC’s key mission partners.  This project provides discretionary grants to prisoners being discharged to help them survive in their first few days after release until benefits become available. It will be enlightening to get some insight into life at this Prison where the focus is on personal development and preparing women for getting back into the outside world after they have served their term.

We’ll meet in the Busbridge Old Rectory at 8.00pm.  The evening will start with drinks and nibbles to give us a chance to mingle and meet new people. Refreshments to start, 2023 Annual subscription £20, Guests £5 contribution towards speaker costs.

There are still places on the next Bereavement Journey course, which is now 7 sessions and finishes on 6 December. Please use the link below for details, and share with anyone you know who might benefit.

Invitation to join a Small Group
It’s a great time to try a mid-week small group, and there is a new group starting on Thursday evenings, hosted by Debs and Tom Jones and led by Hilary Pettman. Please let Hilary know if you would like to find out more.

The group which meets fortnightly on Tuesday mornings (9.20am – 11am) seeks new members interested in joining them for the September term.  All ages welcome. Please contact Cathy Brook via My ChurchSuite or the church office for more details.

A Wednesday evening group would also welcome new members. Please let Margot Spencer e: margot.spencer@bhcgodalming.org know if this is a good time for you!

church family news

We have been deeply saddened to learn of the sudden death of Malcolm Brunning, a much-loved former member of Busbridge church.  He and Denise kept up their longstanding connection with us through remaining faithful Prime Timers.  We send our love to Denise, Andrew, Edward and the whole family.  Please pray for them all, as they adjust to such a sudden loss.  Malcolm’s funeral service will be held in Godalming Parish Church on 13th October 2023 at 3:00 pm.

The funeral of Paul Unwin will take place at Hambledon Church on Thursday 12th October at 1pm.

A service of Thanksgiving for the life of John Postill will take place at Busbridge Church on Saturday 21st October, at 2pm, followed by refreshments in the Yew Tree Café.

get involved / serving

We’re passionate about people feeling like they’re a part of our church family and one of the best places to do that is as part of a team.

No matter your age or experience, there’s a team that you can join, serving alongside others and getting to know people better in the church. You can find out about all our opportunities to serve and offer your time and talents on the Join a Team page.

Coming Up / plan ahead

See the events coming up next and look up dates further ahead in the full calendar.

Can we pray for you?

***Please send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Monday Morning Reflections on Zoom
We shall resume our sessions on Monday 4th September at 8.45am on Zoom. If you  would like to start your week in quiet reflection over a passage of scripture do join us in September – you will be very welcome. For any further information please contact: Gertrud Sollars or Shan Hallam.

Wednesdays at 9AM: Morning Prayer at Hambledon Church

Groups & Activities

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. See the calendar event for details.

Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic takes place 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jul-Dec is now available. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

Nexus meets on the 1st Thursday of the month, with talks and activities for church members and the community. The 2023 Nexus programme can be found on Nexus.

Bereavement Café – The Bereavement Café is for anyone who has been bereaved recently or some time ago and provides a safe and supportive space to come and chat with members of the pastoral care team, and others who have experienced loss. Every last Tuesday of the month in the Old Rectory. More details >>>

Don’t forget about…

The MyChurchSuite app. It’s the easiest way to check dates, rotas, church emails, look up church members and sign up to events (without having to enter your details again and again!). Contact the Church Office if you’ve lost your login details or would like to request an account. The instructions which are now on the web site HERE.

Elsewhere

The new Bishop of Dorking (Paul Davies) is being welcomed at Evensong on Sunday 8th October, at Guildford Cathedral. Book your (free) ticket via the Cathedral box office.

For news from all the other local churches, see:
Churches Together Link Up – SEPTEMBER 2023

Godalming Baptist Church Life Issues talks
See the full 2023 Life Issues programme.
To book a place contact Sally Pollard-pollard3@hotmail.co.uk or tel-01483-428646.
Next talk: Anxiety, Fear and Panic

WANTED: ACCOMMODATION FOR YOUTH WORKER RELOCATING TO GODALMING
The Trinity Trust Team has recently appointed a new Team Youth Worker (single male, aged 30). This is more great news for Christian youth work across Godalming.

Ola is looking for a one bed, flat studio or annexe at reasonable rent. If you can help please contact our Chair (Michael Stubbs) on: michael@trinitytrustteam.co.uk.

Week of Accompanied Prayer The Guildford network of spiritual directors is offering a week of accompanied prayer from 8.-13th October this year. A week of accompanied prayer is a bit like a retreat from home – you meet once a day (in person or on zoom) with a retreat guide who will suggest Bible passages to pray with and meditate on and talk about what you find. Participants in the past have found a week like this to deepen their prayer life and their walk with God; it also gives you a taste of what spiritual direction is about. Gertrud Sollars (gertrud.sollars@btinternet.com) has more information. See the flyer and application form.

MODERN SLAVERY,  RIGHT HERE , RIGHT NOW
An awareness event, Saturday 21st October, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford, GU1 3TY. 9:30-3pm Talks will be given by DCI Kerry Loveless, Surrey Police and South-east regional lead for Modern Slavery and Allison Sutcliffe Diocese Modern Slavery Advisor.

Guildford Mothers Union is pleased to have been invited by the Diocese to have a stand and would love members to join us in ‘manning it’ for whatever time you can spare, or just support the event, and spread the word.   Please let one of us know: Dorothea (dorothea.nattrass@gmail.com, 01428 653216) / or Diana (diana@parenting@gmail.com,  07782186229).

The Yew Tree Café at Busbridge Church is open 8.30am-4pm weekdays in term time, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and 10am-4pm during school holidays.

PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY TEAM AVAILABLE

If you, or someone you know at church, are in need of support and care, please contact Sandra Wilkin via the church office, or e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org.

To contact the EMERGENCY prayer chain, email prayer@bhcgodalming.org or call 01483 421267.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

Dear Friends,

This Sunday we will be hearing testimony and praying for our wonderful Pastoral Assistants. Technically it’s the annual commissioning in which Pastoral Assistants recommit to their calling to care for people on behalf of the church. BHC has a team of 8, who between them represent all congregations, so each service will have one or two PAs to endorse and celebrate.

Pastoral Care takes on many forms, and is a key element of the mission plan for Loving People under the banner of Godalming Minster. Bereavement support is one area of the ministry that the Pastoral Care team has established in the last year with the Bereavement Journey course, and the monthly Bereavement Café. The next Bereavement Journey course starting on 18th October is open to all, and still has places. See below in the notices for details.

As we countdown to the formal establishment of Godalming Minster (1st Jan 2024!), more and more mission activities are going “Minster-wide”. The next Pre-Marriage course is looking forward to sharing the day with 9 couples who are getting married at each of the 4 Godalming Minister churches (in addition to several who are tying the knot elsewhere) which is exciting!

Also in the notices, there is more encouragement to try out a house group, instructions for Harvest on 8th October and a reminder about the first Minster Pet Service at Hambledon on Sunday 1st Oct. Thank you for reading on…

This Sunday

Sermon series: People, Place & Purpose
Topic: Equipping for evangelism in post-christian culture
| Ephesians 6: 10-18

9.30AM Busbridge Contemporary Service
led by Simon Taylor | Speaker Suzie Lambert
Busbridge Church & online
with crèche and children’s groups for ages 3-14 – all in the Old Rectory

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
led by Sarah Black | Speaker Andy Spencer
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
led by Simon Willetts | Speaker Peter Shaw
Hambledon Church

6PM Busbridge Evening Service [Holy Communion]
led by Simon Willetts | Speaker Simon Taylor
Busbridge Church

Next Sunday 1st October

Topic: Stepping out in Faith
| Deuteronomy 1: 3-18

10AM Minster Pet Service
Hambledon Church
(Muddy Church will join the Pet Service)

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service [Holy Communion]
Busbridge Church & online

6PM Busbridge Evening Service with baptism
Busbridge Church

Notices

Save the Date!

NEW PET SERVICE
1st Oct, 10AM at Hambledon Church

Muddy Church will be joining Hambledon for the inaugural pet service on Sunday 1st October. Essentially, bring your pet along – as long as it’s safe for them and others! We will either by asking “why haven’t we done this before?” or saying “never again!” Either way, please come and share the experience.

All Roles Sunday Service Workshop – Sat 7 Oct
For those who serve as welcomers, service leaders, readers, and leaders of intercessions, AND those who would like to join the team in one of these roles.

Margot and Simon W will lead the workshop from 09.30 to 11.30 consisting of several distinct sessions:

All timings ‘ish’ –

0930 – 0945     welcome and refreshments
0945 – 1015      welcoming
1015 – 1030      reading
1030 – 1100      intercessions
1100 – 1130/45 service leading

Depending on how you wish to serve, you don’t need to attend the full 2 hours, (though it might help to understand the other roles), but it would be great if you could make the bit that is relevant to what you do.  Here’s the link to the event.  It would be super if you could sign up HERE.  

Coffee and croissants will be provided by one of the team!

Baptism and Confirmation
We give thanks that one of our young people has chosen to be baptised, and this will take place at Busbridge Church during the 6pm service on 1st October. Please pray for them, and if you would like to find out about being baptised (whatever your age), please contact Sheila Samuels e: sheila.samuels@bhcgodalming.org, or Ben Barnes e: ben.barnes@bhcgodalming.org.

Several young people will be confirmed during the Deanery confirmation service at St John’s, Farncombe on 5th November. If you would like to find out about confirmation please contact Simon Taylor e: simon.taylor@bhcgodalming.org.

Please pray for these young people who are giving their lives to Jesus, and that our work as Godalming Minster to “grow younger” yields many more!

Harvest – 8th October
Harvest will be celebrated in all services on 8th October, with the traditional gathering of non-perishable gifts for the Godalming Food Bank. BHC also runs an outward giving appeal at key times of the year (Easter, Harvest and Christmas), and this year the Harvest Appeal is in aid of Mechanics for Africa. The web site gives a great impression of the charity and it’s work, and there will be more information available next week. Representatives from MfA will be with us on 8th October too.

Chris Garner of Prime Time Walks fame and also an indispensable member of the live streaming team for services in Busbridge, has begun ordination training. Having undergone quite an intensive selection process, Chris has begun training with the Local Ministry Programme at Guildford. This is a three year course leading to ordination.

Please pray for Chris as he juggles with a full-time job, study and family commitments. Look out for updates of how it is going in the notices now and then.

Invitation to join a Small Group
It’s a great time to try a mid-week small group, and there is a new group starting on Thursday evenings, hosted by Debs and Tom Jones and led by Hilary Pettman. Please let Hilary know if you would like to find out more.

The group which meets fortnightly on Tuesday mornings (9.20am – 11am) seeks new members interested in joining them for the September term.  All ages welcome. Please contact Cathy Brook via My ChurchSuite or the church office for more details.

A Wednesday evening group would also welcome new members. Please let Margot Spencer e: margot.spencer@bhcgodalming.org know if this is a good time for you!

Nexus Talk on Thurs 5th October 8.00pm Busbridge Old Rectory

Making Connections Project – Send Prison
Caroline Luard, Volunteer Mentor

Caroline will come and share with us some aspects of life in the prison.  She and Lesley Mason MBE, Send Prison Chaplain, have a passion for the work that they do there.  

This includes the important Making Connections Project – funded by the Nazareth Way chaplaincy charity, which is one of BHC’s key mission partners.  This project provides discretionary grants to prisoners being discharged to help them survive in their first few days after release until benefits become available. It will be enlightening to get some insight into life at this Prison where the focus is on personal development and preparing women for getting back into the outside world after they have served their term.

We’ll meet in the Busbridge Old Rectory at 8.00pm.  The evening will start with drinks and nibbles to give us a chance to mingle and meet new people. Refreshments to start, 2023 Annual subscription £20, Guests £5 contribution towards speaker costs.

New Wine 2024 – Book Now!
Having returned from a wonderful week at New Wine, the BHC contingent is keen to encourage a bigger Godalming Minster group to go together next year. It will be at Shepton Mallet, from 25th to 30th July.

Tickets are already available and selling quickly, so if people want to book, it would be good to get onto it sooner rather than later, especially if you want places on the fabulous children’s programme. Speak to Suzie Lambert for an enthusiastic testimony and more information!

Update to the BHC Privacy Notice (GDPR)
In accordance with GDPR, the church must inform people of any changes to its Privacy Notice.  Therefore, please note that under the part of the Privacy Notice which lists the purposes that Busbridge&Hambledon Church uses personal data for, the following has been added:  “To work towards establishing the Godalming Minster”.  (see the penultimate bullet point.)  If you have any questions, please contact jenny.lansdowne@bhcgodalming.org. 

church family news

The funeral of Paul Unwin will take place at Hambledon Church on Thursday 12th October at 1pm.

A service of Thanksgiving for the life of John Postill will take place at Busbridge Church on Saturday 21st October, at 2pm, followed by refreshments in the Yew Tree Café.

get involved / serving

We’re passionate about people feeling like they’re a part of our church family and one of the best places to do that is as part of a team.

No matter your age or experience, there’s a team that you can join, serving alongside others and getting to know people better in the church. You can find out about all our opportunities to serve and offer your time and talents on the Join a Team page.

Coming Up / plan ahead

See the events coming up next and look up dates further ahead in the full calendar.

Can we pray for you?

***Please send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Monday Morning Reflections on Zoom
We shall resume our sessions on Monday 4th September at 8.45am on Zoom. If you  would like to start your week in quiet reflection over a passage of scripture do join us in September – you will be very welcome. For any further information please contact: Gertrud Sollars or Shan Hallam.

Wednesdays at 9AM: Morning Prayer at Hambledon Church

Groups & Activities

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. See the calendar event for details.

Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic takes place 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jul-Dec is now available. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

Nexus meets on the 1st Thursday of the month, with talks and activities for church members and the community. The 2023 Nexus programme can be found on Nexus.

Bereavement Café – The Bereavement Café is for anyone who has been bereaved recently or some time ago and provides a safe and supportive space to come and chat with members of the pastoral care team, and others who have experienced loss. Every last Tuesday of the month in the Old Rectory. More details >>>

Don’t forget about…

The MyChurchSuite app. It’s the easiest way to check dates, rotas, church emails, look up church members and sign up to events (without having to enter your details again and again!). Contact the Church Office if you’ve lost your login details or would like to request an account. The instructions which are now on the web site HERE.

Elsewhere

For news from all the other local churches, see:
Churches Together Link Up – SEPTEMBER 2023

Godalming Baptist Church Life Issues talks
See the full 2023 Life Issues programme.
To book a place contact Sally Pollard-pollard3@hotmail.co.uk or tel-01483-428646.
Next talk: Anxiety, Fear and Panic

WANTED: ACCOMMODATION FOR YOUTH WORKER RELOCATING TO GODALMING
The Trinity Trust Team has recently appointed a new Team Youth Worker (single male, aged 30). This is more great news for Christian youth work across Godalming.

Ola is looking for a one bed, flat studio or annexe at reasonable rent. If you can help please contact our Chair (Michael Stubbs) on: michael@trinitytrustteam.co.uk.

Week of Accompanied Prayer The Guildford network of spiritual directors is offering a week of accompanied prayer from 8.-13th October this year. A week of accompanied prayer is a bit like a retreat from home – you meet once a day (in person or on zoom) with a retreat guide who will suggest Bible passages to pray with and meditate on and talk about what you find. Participants in the past have found a week like this to deepen their prayer life and their walk with God; it also gives you a taste of what spiritual direction is about. Gertrud Sollars (gertrud.sollars@btinternet.com) has more information. See the flyer and application form.

MODERN SLAVERY,  RIGHT HERE , RIGHT NOW
An awareness event, Saturday 21st October, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford, GU1 3TY. 9:30-3pm Talks will be given by DCI Kerry Loveless, Surrey Police and South-east regional lead for Modern Slavery and Allison Sutcliffe Diocese Modern Slavery Advisor.

Guildford Mothers Union is pleased to have been invited by the Diocese to have a stand and would love members to join us in ‘manning it’ for whatever time you can spare, or just support the event, and spread the word.   Please let one of us know: Dorothea (dorothea.nattrass@gmail.com, 01428 653216) / or Diana (diana@parenting@gmail.com,  07782186229).

The Yew Tree Café at Busbridge Church is open 8.30am-4pm weekdays in term time, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and 10am-4pm during school holidays.

PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY TEAM AVAILABLE

If you, or someone you know at church, are in need of support and care, please contact Sandra Wilkin via the church office, or e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org.

To contact the EMERGENCY prayer chain, email prayer@bhcgodalming.org or call 01483 421267.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

Dear Friends,

Busbridge, Hambledon and St Peter and St Paul’s are all part of the Heritage Open Days programme for Godalming & Environs this weekend, with a tour of the SS Peter & Paul bell tower available to book at 2pm on Saturday. There is lots of info on display at Busbridge Church, and the Yew Tree Café would make a great stop for refreshments on Saturday from 10-2.30pm. Details of opening times, and the 24 historical venues which are open to visitors this weekend can be found in the brochure, or you can look individual buildings up at www.heritageopendays.org.uk.

To mark Heritage weekend, St Peter & St Paul’s is holding a special Minster-wide Choral Evensong, at 5pm on Saturday 16th September, led by Philippa Baker.  All are warmly welcome! 

Godalming Minster will be a team of forward looking and thinking churches, but the church buildings bear witness to the 1000+ years of mission and worship that we build upon. This weekend offers a wonderful chance to find out about and celebrate our combined heritage.

Then on Sunday afternoon we get back to the future as Messy Church (4PM at Hambledon Village Hall) restarts this term for families with younger children.

We look forward to seeing you at church or online this Sunday. Please read on for other news.

This Sunday

Sermon series: People, Place & Purpose
Topic: Youth work today: What can we learn from david?
| 1 samuel 17: 20-46 

9.30AM Busbridge Contemporary Service [Holy Communion]
Busbridge Church & online
Led by: Margot Spencer | Speaker: Patrick Samuels
with crèche and children’s groups for ages 3-14 – all in the Old Rectory

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Led by: Frances Shaw | Speaker: Patrick Samuels
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Led by: Hilary Pettman | Speaker: Dudley Hilton
Hambledon Church

4PM Messy Church
Hambledon Village Hall

Next Sunday 24 SEPTEMBER

Topic: Equipping for evangelism in post-christian culture
| Ephesians 6: 10-18

9.30AM Busbridge Contemporary Service [Holy Communion]
Busbridge Church & online
with crèche and children’s groups for ages 3-14 – all in the Old Rectory

11.15AM Busbridge Classic Service
Busbridge Church & online

10AM Hambledon Morning Worship
Hambledon Church

4PM Messy Church
Hambledon Village Hall

Notices

Save the Date!

NEW PET SERVICE
1st Oct, 10AM at Hambledon Church

Muddy Church will be joining Hambledon for its inaugural pet service on Sunday 1st October. Guidance to follow, but essentially, bring your pet along – as long as it’s safe for them and others! We will either by asking “why haven’t we done this before?” or saying “never again!” Either way, please come and share the experience.

Baptism and Confirmation
We give thanks that one of our young people has chosen to be baptised, and this will take place at Busbridge Church during the 6pm service on 1st October. Please pray for them, and if you would like to find out about being baptised (whatever your age), please contact Sheila Samuels e: sheila.samuels@bhcgodalming.org, or Ben Barnes e: ben.barnes@bhcgodalming.org.

Several young people will be confirmed during the Deanery confirmation service at St John’s, Farncombe on 5th November. If you would like to find out about confirmation please contact Simon Taylor e: simon.taylor@bhcgodalming.org.

Please pray for these young people who are giving their lives to Jesus, and that our work as Godalming Minster to “grow younger” yields many more!

The Bible Course – Thursdays at St Mark’s Church.
This is a chance for everyone Minster-wide to join the highly recommended Bible Course. The course is 2 sessions in and has a great group of people, but you can still just about catch up!

The Bible Course is a brilliant way to bring the Bible to life and understand the whole storyline— from Genesis to Revelation. Along the way you will pick up tools and skills to help you read it yourself and apply it to your life. Though it was written for beginners in an extremely accessible in style, it will still challenge the experienced bible reader and help anyone rediscover the Bible afresh.

If you are not part of a mid-week small group, this is a chance to get a feel for the format, experience bible study in a group, and get to know members of the church family better. If you’d like to know more, contact Keith Harper who is leading the eight sessions at St Mark’s on Thursday evenings in September (7.30pm-8.30/9pm).

Invitation to join a Small Group
September is a great time to try a mid-week small group, as most groups enjoyed a summer break and will be starting to meet again this week and next.

The group which meets fortnightly on Tuesday mornings (9.20am – 11am) seeks new members interested in joining them for the September term.  All ages welcome. Please contact Cathy Brook via My ChurchSuite or the church office for more details.

A Wednesday evening group would also welcome new members. Please let Margot Spencer e: margot.spencer@bhcgodalming.org know if this is a good time for you!

New Wine 2024 – Book Now!
Having returned from a wonderful week at New Wine, the BHC contingent is keen to encourage a bigger Godalming Minster group to go together next year. It will be at Shepton Mallet, from 25th to 30th July.

Tickets are already available and selling quickly, so if people want to book, it would be good to get onto it sooner rather than later, especially if you want places on the fabulous children’s programme. Speak to Suzie Lambert for an enthusiastic testimony and more information!

Nexus Talk on Thurs 5th October 8.00pm Busbridge Old Rectory

Making Connections Project – Send Prison
Caroline Luard, Volunteer Mentor

Caroline will come and share with us some aspects of life in the prison.  She and Lesley Mason MBE, Send Prison Chaplain, have a passion for the work that they do there.  

This includes the important Making Connections Project – funded by the Nazareth Way chaplaincy charity, which is one of BHC’s key mission partners.  This project provides discretionary grants to prisoners being discharged to help them survive in their first few days after release until benefits become available. It will be enlightening to get some insight into life at this Prison where the focus is on personal development and preparing women for getting back into the outside world after they have served their term.

We’ll meet in the Busbridge Old Rectory at 8.00pm.  The evening will start with drinks and nibbles to give us a chance to mingle and meet new people. Refreshments to start, 2023 Annual subscription £20, Guests £5 contribution towards speaker costs.

Training for leading Intercessions, Welcoming, Reading and leading services – Sat 7 Oct
This is advanced notice of a training session which will be held on Saturday 7 October.  This will run from 0930 to 1130 and will consist of several distinct sessions covering leading intercessions, welcoming, reading, service leading.  If you are not involved in any of these ministries, but would be interested to know what is involved, please come along.  If you are someone who is already involved, please can we encourage you to make a note of the date and come for a refresher. 

People are welcome to come to any or all of the sessions and further details about timing will be available nearer the time.  If you would like to know more, please have a word with (or drop an e-mail to)  Margot Spencer margot.spencer@bhcgodalming.org  or Simon Willetts simon.willetts@bhcgodalming.org

church family news

Many of you will have heard by now that John Postill died peacefully on Monday morning.  He has been a much-loved and important part of our church family since he and Jeannie came to Hambledon in 1997, and we are all deeply saddened by this news.  We send our love to Jeannie, Lizzie, Richard and the whole family.  Please hold them in your prayers, as they mourn the loss of a very dear husband, father and grandfather. There will be a private funeral for family and close friends, to be followed by a thanksgiving service at a later date.

We send our love and prayers to Pauline Underwood, following the death of Philip on Tuesday, who was also a lifelong member and servant of Hambledon Church.  Please remember Pauline and the family in your prayers, particularly as Pauline is recovering from surgery herself.  Ask for God’s comfort and reassurance for them all at such a difficult time.  Funeral details will be shared as soon as they are available.

get involved / serving

We’re passionate about people feeling like they’re a part of our church family and one of the best places to do that is as part of a team.

No matter your age or experience, there’s a team that you can join, serving alongside others and getting to know people better in the church. You can find out about all our opportunities to serve and offer your time and talents on the Join a Team page.

Coming Up / plan ahead

See the events coming up next and look up dates further ahead in the full calendar.

Can we pray for you?

***Please send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer and reflection.

Monday Morning Reflections on Zoom
We shall resume our sessions on Monday 4th September at 8.45am on Zoom. If you  would like to start your week in quiet reflection over a passage of scripture do join us in September – you will be very welcome. For any further information please contact: Gertrud Sollars or Shan Hallam.

Wednesdays at 9AM: Morning Prayer at Hambledon Church

Groups & Activities

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. See the calendar event for details.

Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic takes place 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10.30am.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jul-Dec is now available. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

Nexus meets on the 1st Thursday of the month, with talks and activities for church members and the community. The 2023 Nexus programme can be found on Nexus.

Bereavement Café – The Bereavement Café is for anyone who has been bereaved recently or some time ago and provides a safe and supportive space to come and chat with members of the pastoral care team, and others who have experienced loss. Every last Tuesday of the month in the Old Rectory. More details >>>

Don’t forget about…

The MyChurchSuite app. It’s the easiest way to check dates, rotas, church emails, look up church members and sign up to events (without having to enter your details again and again!). Contact the Church Office if you’ve lost your login details or would like to request an account. The instructions which are now on the web site HERE.

Elsewhere

For news from all the other local churches, see:
Churches Together Link Up – SEPTEMBER 2023

Godalming Baptist Church Life Issues talks
See the full 2023 Life Issues programme.
To book a place contact Sally Pollard-pollard3@hotmail.co.uk or tel-01483-428646.
Next talk: Anxiety, Fear and Panic

WANTED: ACCOMMODATION FOR YOUTH WORKER RELOCATING TO GODALMING
The Trinity Trust Team has recently appointed a new Team Youth Worker (single male, aged 30). This is more great news for Christian youth work across Godalming.

Ola is looking for a one bed, flat studio or annexe at reasonable rent. If you can help please contact our Chair (Michael Stubbs) on: michael@trinitytrustteam.co.uk.

Week of Accompanied Prayer The Guildford network of spiritual directors is offering a week of accompanied prayer from 8.-13th October this year. A week of accompanied prayer is a bit like a retreat from home – you meet once a day (in person or on zoom) with a retreat guide who will suggest Bible passages to pray with and meditate on and talk about what you find. Participants in the past have found a week like this to deepen their prayer life and their walk with God; it also gives you a taste of what spiritual direction is about. Gertrud Sollars (gertrud.sollars@btinternet.com) has more information. See the flyer and application form.

MODERN SLAVERY,  RIGHT HERE , RIGHT NOW
An awareness event, Saturday 21st October, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford, GU1 3TY. 9:30-3pm Talks will be given by DCI Kerry Loveless, Surrey Police and South-east regional lead for Modern Slavery and Allison Sutcliffe Diocese Modern Slavery Advisor.

Guildford Mothers Union is pleased to have been invited by the Diocese to have a stand and would love members to join us in ‘manning it’ for whatever time you can spare, or just support the event, and spread the word.   Please let one of us know: Dorothea (dorothea.nattrass@gmail.com, 01428 653216) / or Diana (diana@parenting@gmail.com,  07782186229).

The Yew Tree Café at Busbridge Church is open 8.30am-4pm weekdays in term time, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays, and 10am-4pm during school holidays.

PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY TEAM AVAILABLE

If you, or someone you know at church, are in need of support and care, please contact Sandra Wilkin via the church office, or e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org.

To contact the EMERGENCY prayer chain, email prayer@bhcgodalming.org or call 01483 421267.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.