Dear Friends,

Last week Muddy Church at Tuesley Minster Field reflected on the 1200 year history of Christian worship in the parishes of Busbridge, Hambledon and Godalming, before planting bulbs as a symbol of the revitalised Christian life we pray to be part of in the new Godalming Minster. The planting exercise was dubbed “Daffodil Discipleship”. They were actually Iris bulbs as it’s too late for daffs, but let not that get in the way of a catchy title for Muddy! Look out for either flower in the Busbridge woods this spring and summer and remember what they mean to us a disciples at this time in this place. Muddy next meets on Hambledon Village Cricket Green on 5 March.

This Sunday everyone is invited to the first session on Gifts of the Holy Spirit which will follow the 6PM service at Busbridge. John Valentine and Simon Taylor are leading the 6 40 minute sessions to equip everyone as disciples in and outside of the church. More details >>

The other important invitation is for Monday 27 Feb (7.30PM) when Richard Lloyd from Mission Enabler team @CofEGuildford will be joining us to explain the 6Ws for getting the best out of small groups. Richard is a great evangelist for small groups and how they can “unlock church” for everyone in its community. If you are not a small group member, it will give you a good reason to join or start one, and existing members will be inspired, enthused and encouraged to get even more from their group!

And there’s more. Read on for events and activities coming up.

Sunday 12 Feb:

Eternally blessed
SERMON series “Transformed Life”
Readings: Ephesians 1: 1-4

Busbridge

9.30AM Contemporary
Busbridge Church & online
Led by: Patrick Samuels | Speaker: Simon Taylor
No 0-11s Children’s groups this week for half-term, but children are welcome to mess about during the service!

Join us for coffee and donuts in the Yew Tree Café between services

11.15AM Classic Service
Busbridge Church & onine
Led by: Keith Harper | Speaker: Simon Taylor

6PM Evening Service
Busbridge Church
Led by: Sarah Rowden | Speaker: Simon Taylor

Hambledon

10AM Morning Worship [Holy Communion]
with Children’s Club
Hambledon Church & online
Led by: Simon Willetts| Speaker: Hilary Pettman

Coming Up:

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

Dates for the diary:

Next Messy Church 19 Feb, 4PM at Hambledon Village Hall
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday 22 Feb with a BHC benefice service – Holy Communion with Ashing – at 8PM at Busbridge Church.

Notices

Would you like to know more about Spiritual Gifts? The Diocese recently ran a two day training event with Jackie Pullinger about the sensible, careful exercising of Spiritual Gifts. About 20 people from BHC, St Mark’s and St Peter & St Paul’s attended (there were limited spaces and our church context meant we got extras) and all were blessed by the event. Jackie talked about exercising these Gifts of God positively with grace and love. A free 1 hour follow up webinar on ‘leading in the power of the Holy Spirit’ is being provided by the Diocese, which anyone can attend. If you’d like to know more about this area of God’s work and our church family, please attend. Wednesday 22nd February at 11am (book here) and Thursday 2nd March at 2pm (book here).

Small Group Info Evening – 7.30PM Monday 27th Feb. All small group members, and those who would like to find out about them are invited to a session with Richard Lloyd, from the Mission Enabler Team at Guildford Diocese. Richard will share his thoughts and enthusiasm for Small Groups, and offer tips on how to make sure they support you in discipleship, and the mission of the whole church. Find event details here.

Last few spaces available on the ‘The Bereavement Journey’ – a 6 week course for those who have been bereaved at any time, starting Tues 21 Feb – 28 March 2023, 7-9PM in the Old Rectory. Contact Sandra Wilkin e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org for more details. To watch the promo video and to register, see: The Bereavement Journey.

Ad for our new Worship Pastor – the closing date for applications is 13th Feb. Please pray and share, share, share! An updated job ad for our new 5-11s Children’s is coming out shortly.

Get Involved

Busbridge&Hambledon Church runs on the generous giving of time and talents of its members, led and supported by the clergy, ministry leaders and other staff. Everyone has a valued part to play in the life of the church, and we believe it’s key to feeling like you belong to the BHC family. If you are not already serving in one or more roles, please think about committing to something now. The commitment can be small. Most areas would welcome more volunteers, but support is urgently needed for the following:
Pancake flippers for the PrimeTime party on Shrove Tuesday – please contact Penny if you can help with hospitality on 21st Feb.
Busbridge Electoral Role Officer – thanks to Maggie J for her 7+ years of service. Maggie’s successor will need to be available in advance of the APCMs in April/May each year, and a confident IT user (ChurchSuite, email and excel).
Busbridge AV Production Team – Sound desk, laptop and/or livestream operators needed for 9.30am, 11.15am and 6pm – one Sunday a month. Training provided! See https://youtu.be/BDYQFjQx3-s and please contact Patrick Elshen to find out more.

Elsewhere

World Day of Prayer – Friday 3rd March – Godalming Prayer Gathering at 10.30am

Godalming Baptist Church Life Issues talks: See the full 2023 Life Issues programme.
Sat 25 Feb ‘Self-Harm’ led by Suzette Jones at GBC. 10.00am-12.15 (coffee from 9.30am)  Please do consider coming to find out more about this huge issue in our society today.  Suzette will look at the signs of self-harm, how do we react, where help can be found, what we can do. To book a place contact Sally Pollard-pollard3@hotmail.co.uk or tel-01483-428646.

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

Don’t forget about…

Minster Update. The Minster Transition Steering Group have published a January Update, which can be found here.

Mid-week Prayer Gatherings

Reflective Prayer Mons at 8.45am online.
Busbridge Morning Prayer Weds at 9am online.
Hambledon Morning Prayer takes place on Wednesdays at 9am. All welcome.
Busbridge Saturday Prayer Meeting + PrayerFest 0-30 8-9am 2nd Saturdays of the month [11th Feb]

***Send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Groups & Activities

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. Topic for 4th Feb: Freedom of Expression. See the calendar event for details.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jan-Jun is now available, and the next event is the Shrove Tuesday pancake party on 21st Feb. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

The 2023 Nexus programme is now available, and the next event is a talk on 2nd Feb is about the Normandy Healing Garden. For all events and details, see Nexus.

VACANCIES

We are truly blessed to have talented and faithful teams of volunteers from the church family coordinating worship and children’s groups for the time being, but we wait expectantly for the right people to take up the positions so that these crucial ministries can fully flourish and soar!

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

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

Dear Friends,

We continue the sermon series on Ephesians this Sunday, and this week the title is “Brand New”. Muddy Church will also be tackling the subject, with trowels in hand (if you have one) at the Ladywell Shrine on Tuesley Minsterfield! Read on for the notices, and see you at church this Sunday:

Sunday 5 Feb:

BRAND NEW
SERMON series “Transformed Life”
Readings: Ephesians 1: 1-2

Busbridge

9.30AM Muddy Church
Ladywell Shrine, Tuesley Minsterfield ///SLIMEY.COWBOY.HARP
Led by: Mark Puddephatt and Suzie Lambert
All ages and dogs welcome.
Please bring a trowel and a pair of gardening gloves if you have them!
[Replaces Busbridge Contemporary]

11.15AM Classic Service [Holy Communion]
Busbridge Church
Led by: Margot Spencer | Speaker: Chris Payne

PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO UNPLUGGED SERVICE THIS SUNDAY.
LOOK OUT FOR NEWS ABOUT 6PM SERVICES & SOCIALS COMING SOON.

Hambledon

10AM Morning Worship
with Children’s Club
Hambledon Church
Led by: Simon Willetts| Speaker: Sarah Rowden

Coming Up:

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

Notices

Holy Spirit Evenings – following the 6PM service, 12 Feb-14 May
John Valentine, Simon Taylor and Simon Willetts will be leading a series of sessions during the season on Lent for everyone to experience the life and work of the Holy Spirit & help you on a journey, in faith and unity. Approx 40 mins with teaching, testimony and practice. Please take a flyer this Sunday, or find the event in the calendar for more details.

Small Group Info Evening – 7.30PM Monday 27th Feb. Save the date for a special event – All small group members, and those who would like to find out about them are invited to a session with Richard Lloyd, from the Mission Enabler Team at Guildford Diocese. Richard will share his thoughts and enthusiasm for Small Groups, and offer tips on how to make sure they support you in discipleship, and the mission of the whole church. Contact Simon Willetts to find out more.

There are just a few spaces available on the ‘The Bereavement Journey’ – a 6 week course for those who have been bereaved at any time, starting Tues 21 Feb – 28 March 2023, 7-9PM in the Old Rectory. Contact Sandra Wilkin e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org for more details. To watch the promo video and to register, see: The Bereavement Journey.

Ad for our new Worship Pastor – this is now published on the vacancies page, and the Guildford Diocese and New Wine jobs pages. Please pray and share, share, share!

Things for Ukrainian homes There’s a new local WhatsApp group for requests and offers of household items for families who are moving from their hosts into new homes. Please contact the church office if you’d like to join the group.

GET INVOLVED

Busbridge&Hambledon Church runs on the generous giving of time and talents of its members, led and supported by the clergy, ministry leaders and other staff. Everyone has a valued part to play in the life of the church, and we believe it’s key to feeling like you belong to the BHC family. If you are not already serving in one or more roles, please think about committing to something now. The commitment can be small. Most areas would welcome more volunteers, but support is urgently needed for the following:
Busbridge Electoral Role Officer – thanks to Maggie J for her years of service. Maggie’s successor will need to be available in advance of the APCMs in April/May each year, and a confident IT user (email and excel).
Busbridge AV Production Team – Laptop and or Livestream operators needed for 9.30am, 11.15am and 6pm (laptop only) – one Sunday a month. We’ve regrettably been unable to broadcast some services from Busbridge in recent weeks, and it’s missed. Training provided! See https://youtu.be/BDYQFjQx3-s and please contact Patrick Elshen to find out more.

mid-week prayer gatherings

Reflective Prayer Mons at 8.45am online.
Busbridge Morning Prayer Weds at 9am online.
Hambledon Morning Prayer takes place on Wednesdays at 9am. All welcome.
Busbridge Saturday Prayer Meeting + PrayerFest 0-30 8-9am 2nd Saturdays of the month [11th Feb]

***Send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

groups & activities

The Men’s Group meets for breakfast at 8.15am on the first Saturdays of the month. Topic for 4th Feb: Freedom of Expression. See the calendar event for details.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jan-Jun is now available, and the next event is the Shrove Tuesday pancake party on 21st Feb. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

The 2023 Nexus programme is now available, and the next event is a talk on 2nd Feb is about the Normandy Healing Garden. For all events and details, see Nexus.

Elsewhere

World Day of Prayer – Friday 3rd March – Godalming Prayer Gathering at 10.30am
All invited to support on 3rd March. There is a planning meeting arranged for Thursday, 9th February at 1pm at the United Church, Bridge St. Godalming. Please join Rev. Hannah Moore, Adam Payne (GUC minister) and myself to find out how you can be part of the team for the WDP on Friday, 3rd March.  

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

Godalming Baptist Church Life Issues talks: See the full 2023 Life Issues programme.

Don’t forget about…

VACANCIES

We are truly blessed to have talented and faithful teams of volunteers from the church family coordinating worship and children’s groups for the time being, but we wait expectantly for the right people to take up the positions so that these crucial ministries can fully flourish and soar!

Minster Update. The Minster Transition Steering Group have published a November Update, which can be found here.

Things in the following areas may not make the notices, but the latest info can be found on the web pages:

Church Family Support Fund
Do you know of anyone who might be struggling to pay their bills in this very challenging time? The Church Family Support Fund is here to help anyone, in the Godalming area, who is in need financially with a one off payment . All details about the fund and an application form can be found on the Busbridge church web site, or please contact Jill Johnston on 01483 422194.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

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.

Dear Friends,

We are introducing a great sermon series on Ephesians this Sunday, and the home groups will be following the Transformed Life course (videos and session notes available!) from next week too. Now is a great time to speak to Simon Willetts about trying out a home group if you are not already a member, and this invitation will be repeated by the service leaders on Sunday, and over the course of 2023.

See you at church or online this Sunday:

Sunday 29 January:

Intro to the series “Transformed Life”
Readings: Ephesians chapters 1-3

Busbridge

9.30AM Contemporary Service
Busbridge Church
Led by: Simon Taylor | Speaker: Simon Willetts

***All invited for coffee in the Yew Tree Café between services ***

11.15AM Classic Service
Busbridge Church
Led by: Simon Taylor | Speaker: Simon Willetts

Hambledon

10AM Morning Worship
Hambledon Church
Led by: Patrick Samuels | Speaker: Hilary Pettman

Coming Up:

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

Notices

6PM Service social 29 Jan
The 6PM team would like to invite you to a congregation social. Join them for a drink/food and a chat at The Inn on the Lake from 6p.m. – 7:30p.m. If you have not been to the evening service for a while or if you do not normally come to the 6pm service but would like to join us – you would be very welcome. We look forward to seeing you there. Contact Shan Hallam (on behalf of the 6PM Congregational Team)

Holy Spirit Evenings – following the 6PM service, 12 Feb-14 May
John Valentine, Simon Taylor and Simon Willetts will be leading a series of Holy Spirit sessions during the season on Lent. These sessions will be approx 40 mins, following the slightly shortened 6pm service, and run from 6.50-7.30pm. Please find the events in the calendar for more details.

There are just a few spaces available on the ‘The Bereavement Journey’ – a 6 week course for those who have been bereaved at any time, starting Tues 21 Feb – 28 March 2023, 7-9PM in the Old Rectory. Contact Sandra Wilkin e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org for more details. To watch the promo video and to register, see: The Bereavement Journey.

The 2023 Prime Time programme for Jan-Jun is now available, and the next event is the tea and pancake party on Shrove Tuesday, 21st Feb. For all events and details, see Prime Time.

The 2023 Nexus programme is now available, and the next event is a talk on 2nd Feb is about the Normandy Healing Garden. For all events and details, see Nexus.

URGENT! Ad for our new Worship Pastor – this is now published on the vacancies page, and the Guildford Diocese and New Wine jobs pages. Please pray and share, share, share! Likewise we are still on the hunt a 4-11s Children’s Worker. We are truly blessed to have talented and faithful teams of volunteers from the church family coordinating worship and children’s groups for the time being, but we wait expectantly for the right people to take up the positions so that these crucial ministries can fully flourish and soar!

St Mark’s Warm Hub is continuing on Tuesdays from 12-4pm. The warm hub offers a Soup and roll lunch, followed by tea and cake a bit later in a warm and welcoming environment. The warm hub needs more helpers to share the care:

– to help set up at noon
– to help clear away from 3pm
– to help serve between 12.30 and 2.30
– to provide a cake

On a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. Contact Michaeleashing@aol.com if you can help. 

church family news

We have been deeply saddened to hear that Roy Keating died, in hospital, on Monday evening. We send our love and prayers to Carole, Claire, Stephen and the whole family. As we give thanks for Roy’s life, we pray for God’s love, peace and comfort to enfold them all. Details of the funeral are being confirmed and will be available next week.

Regular Events

Reflective Prayer Mons at 8.45am online.
Busbridge Morning Prayer Weds at 9am online.
Hambledon Morning Prayer takes place on Wednesdays at 9am. All welcome.
Busbridge Saturday Prayer Meeting + PrayerFest 0-30 8-9am 2nd Saturdays of the month [11th Feb]

***Send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Elsewhere

See the full 2023 Life Issues programme

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

Don’t forget about…

Minster Update. The Minster Transition Steering Group have published a November Update, which can be found here.

Things in the following areas may not make the notices, but the latest info can be found on the web pages:

Church Family Support Fund
Do you know of anyone who might be struggling to pay their bills in this very challenging time? The Church Family Support Fund is here to help anyone, in the Godalming area, who is in need financially with a one off payment . All details about the fund and an application form can be found on the Busbridge church web site, or please contact Jill Johnston on 01483 422194.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

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.

Dear Friends,

Sunday 22 January:

10.30AM Churches Together Service at St John’s Church, Farncombe
***No morning services at Busbridge or Hambledon***
Led by: James Rattue | Speaker: Simon Taylor
Children’s work led by TTT
Offertory collection for Ukraine families in Godalming
via the Church Family Support Fund

Parking is limited, please allow time to park and walk.

6PM Busbridge Evening [Holy Communion]
Led by: Sarah Rowden | Speaker: Simon Taylor

Morning services at Busbridge and Hambledon are suspended this Sunday 22nd Jan as we join Godalming Churches Together at the United Service, 10.30am at St John’s Church, Farncombe. The service will be led by Rev James Rattue, Simon Taylor will be preaching, Trinity Trust Team will be leading children’s work and the collection will be for local Ukrainian families who are being supported by the BHC4Ukraine group, and financially via BHC Church Family Support Fund. We look forward to seeing you there.

Last Sunday we were introduced to the theme for 2023: Living through Challenging Times and you can listen to the recording of Simon’s talk “Water Walker required” on YouTube here.

Sunday 29 January:

Intro to the series “Transformed Life”
Readings: Ephesians chapters 1-3

Busbridge

9.30AM Contemporary Service
Busbridge Church
Led by: Simon Taylor | Speaker: Simon Willetts

***All invited for coffee in the Yew Tree Café between services ***

11.15AM Classic Service
Busbridge Church
Led by: Simon Taylor | Speaker: Simon Willetts

Hambledon

10AM Morning Worship
Hambledon Church
Led by: Patrick Samuels | Speaker: Hilary Pettman

Coming Up:

See the events coming up next below or look up dates further ahead in the full calendar. Select the event for details and the location (online or on site).

Notices

URGENT! Ad for our new Worship Pastor – this is now published on the vacancies page, and the Guildford Diocese and New Wine jobs pages. Please pray and share, share, share! Likewise we are still on the hunt a 4-11s Children’s Worker. We are truly blessed to have talented and faithful teams of volunteers from the church family coordinating worship and children’s groups for the time being, but we wait expectantly for the right people to take up the positions so that these crucial ministries can fully flourish and soar!

6PM Service social 29 Jan
The 6PM team would like to invite you to a congregation social. Join them for a drink/food and a chat at The Inn on the Lake from 6p.m. – 7:30p.m. If you have not been to the evening service for a while or if you do not normally come to the 6pm service but would like to join us – you would be very welcome. We look forward to seeing you there. Contact Shan Hallam (on behalf of the 6PM Congregational Team)

Holy Spirit Evenings – following the 6PM service, starting 12 Feb
John Valentine, Simon Taylor and others will be leading a series of Holy Spirit evenings during the season on Lent. These sessions will be approx 40 mins, following the slightly shortened 6pm service, and run from 6.50-7.30pm. The sessions will looking at the different gifts of the Spirit over 6 sessions 12 Feb-14 May. More details to follow.

St Mark’s Warm Hub is continuing on Tuesdays from 12-4pm. The warm hub offers a Soup and roll lunch, followed by tea and cake a bit later in a warm and welcoming environment. Board games are available for those who would like. The warm hub is well attended and supported but it needs more helpers to share the care:

– to help set up at noon
– to help clear away from 3pm
– to help serve between 12.30 and 2.30
– to provide a cake

On a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. Contact Michaeleashing@aol.com if you can help. 

Starting this week: Alpha in 2023 – BHC with Godalming parish (soon to be Godalming Minster), and will be running the next Alpha course at St Mark’s, starting on Thursday 26 January. “Stay Curious” postcard invitations to the January Alpha course are available. To watch the promo video view the notices in the a web browser.

‘The Bereavement Journey’ – a 6 week course for those who have been bereaved at any time, starting Tues 21 Feb – 28 March 2023, 7-9PM in the Old Rectory. Contact Sandra Wilkin e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org for more details. To watch the promo video and to register, see: The Bereavement Journey.

New Wine Festival – 1st-5th August – Book by 31 Jan for the Earlybird Discount!
Once again a group of happy campers from BHC will be going to New Wine week B at the Kent Event Centre in Maidstone from 1st-5th August. Would you like to join the group? New Wine is a Christian summer festival with impactful teaching, worship, Holy Spirit ministry, community, connection, and transformational encounters with God. There will be programmes for all ages, with New Wine Kids groups and LUMINOSITY for 11-18s. Find out more and book tickets at new-wine.org/united.  Please speak to Suzie Lambert to find out more. See https://www.new-wine.org/events/united23/

Please note that Ben Barnes and BHC youth (years 7-11) are also going to Satellites https://www.youthscape.co.uk/satellites from 4-8 August. Teens only invited!

Regular Events

Reflective Prayer Mons at 8.45am online.
Busbridge Morning Prayer Weds at 9am online.
Hambledon Morning Prayer takes place on Wednesdays at 9am. All welcome.
Busbridge Saturday Prayer Meeting + PrayerFest 0-30 8-9am 2nd Saturdays of the month [11th Feb]

***Send prayer requests to prayer@bhcgodalming.org***

Elsewhere

See the full 2023 Life Issues programme

The Surrey Appropriate Adult Service (SAAVS) offers support to vulnerable adults and young people who find themselves detained in Police custody. They are seeking more volunteers and could use your help. Attached are a number of resourses which we hope you could use locally to raise awareness and hopefully help appeal to the next round of volunteers.

Below is further details if you want to do a profile. https://www.cofeguildford.org.uk/whats-on/news/detail/2023/01/06/do-you-have-a-new-year-s-resolution-to-be-more-community-active-to-make-a-difference

Urgent  ‘Open the book’ assembly at Moss Lane – once a month on a Monday afternoon

In order to be able to continue, we are searching for folk who would like to act in a small team, sharing the gospel on a monthly basis for 1 hour to the children of ‘Moss Lane’ school. Please come and see what we do before you commit.

Contact Catherine Lawton 07973927233 / catherine@lawtonfamily.net

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

Don’t forget about…

Minster Update. The Minster Transition Steering Group have published a November Update, which can be found here.

Things in the following areas may not make the notices, but the latest info can be found on the web pages:

Church Family Support Fund
Do you know of anyone who might be struggling to pay their bills in this very challenging time? The Church Family Support Fund is here to help anyone, in the Godalming area, who is in need financially with a one off payment . All details about the fund and an application form can be found on the Busbridge church web site, or please contact Jill Johnston on 01483 422194.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

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.

Dear Friends,

We are well into January, and already there have been a few great things going on this new year. The men’s group met for its inaugural breakfast of 2023 at Wetherspoons, Nexus have had their first meeting and our Ukrainian friends celebrated Christmas in Busbridge Church on Saturday 7 Jan (as they do in Ukraine). Thanks to Julie and Michael S and Lizzie B who hosted and made everyone feel so at home. It has been nice to see the church used as a hospitality and multi-way space so well in the Christmas season.

The new year’s highlight was the licensing of Rev Sheila Samuels as Associate Minister for Godalming Minister (when it forms) at St Mark’s Church and Community Centre which took place on 11 January. We share our love and congratulations with Sheila, and join Archdeacon Paul Davies in expressing our gratitude for her faithful service here already, and pray for her pioneering ministry going forward.

The Minster Steering group met last week to progress what it refers to as the “secular” (legal, financial, administrative matters) and “sacred” (mission and worship – what it’s all about!) activities that need to take place to bring Godalming Minster into being in 2023. Work with the diocese and the PCCs will carry on in the background for the time being.

For some of us there’s perhaps a feeling that things are back to full speed before we are ready. If the dull days and mud are dampening your “oomph”, and Spring seems a long way off, try church this Sunday to fan the joy of Christmas! Services, with children’s groups, are back to normal this Sunday.

The theme for 2023 is Living through Challenging Times, and along with the known and unknown international, national and personal challenges, 2023 will be a historic and exciting year for Busbridge and Hambledon Churches as they unite with Godalming Parish to become Godalming Minster. It will undoubtedly stretch many of us in faith, time and energy. In anticipation of some possible “straining at the oars” in any aspect of your life, the bible verse to take with us through 2023 is Mark 6: 50. Do not be afraid – Take Courage it is I. The theme will be introduced in sermons this Sunday.

Sunday Services 15 January

Challenging times:

people priorities, purpose – resources, commitment, finances
Readings: Mark 6:50b

Busbridge

9.30AM Contemporary Service [Holy Communion]
Busbridge Church
Led by: Patrick Samuels | Speaker: Simon Taylor

***All invited for coffee & donuts in the Yew Tree Café between services ***

11.15AM Classic Service
Busbridge Church
Led by: Peter Shaw | Speaker: Simon Taylor

Hambledon

10AM Morning Worship
Hambledon Church
Led by: Hilary Pettman | Speaker: Simon Willetts

4PM Messy Church
Hambledon Village Hall
Led by: Simon Willetts & the Messy Team

Next Sunday 22 January:

10.30AM Churches Together Service at St John’s Church, Farncombe
***No morning services at Busbridge or Hambledon***

6PM Busbridge Evening [Holy Communion]

Coming Up:

See the events coming up next below or look up dates further ahead in the full calendar. Select the event for details and the location (online or on site).

Notices

6PM Service social 29th Jan
The 6PM team would therefore like to invite you to a social gathering for a drink/food and a chat at The Inn on the Lake from 6p.m. – 7:30p.m. Do come along and bring a friend and we can catch up with each other. 

If you have not been to the evening service for a while or if you do not normally come to the 6p.m. service but would like to join us – you would be very welcome. We look forward to seeing you there. Contact Shan Hallam (on behalf of the 6PM Congregational Team)

Alpha in 2023 – BHC with Godalming parish (soon to be Godalming Minster), and will be running the next Alpha course at St Mark’s, starting on Thursday 26 January. “Stay Curious” postcard invitations to the January Alpha course are available. To watch the promo video view the notices in the a web browser.

‘The Bereavement Journey’ – a 6 week course for those who have been bereaved at any time, starting Tues 21 Feb – 28 March 2023, 7-9PM in the Old Rectory. Contact Sandra Wilkin e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org for more details. To watch the promo video view the notices in the a web browser.

New Wine Festival – 1st-5th August – Book by 19 Jan for the Earlybird Discount!
Once again a group of happy campers from BHC will be going to New Wine week B at the Kent Event Centre in Maidstone from 1st-5th August. Would you like to join the group? New Wine is a Christian summer festival with impactful teaching, worship, Holy Spirit ministry, community, connection, and transformational encounters with God. There will be programmes for all ages, with New Wine Kids groups and LUMINOSITY for 11-18s. Find out more and book tickets at new-wine.org/united.  Please speak to Suzie Lambert to find out more. See https://www.new-wine.org/events/united23/

Please note that Ben Barnes and BHC youth (years 7-11) are also going to Satellites https://www.youthscape.co.uk/satellites from 4-8 August. Teens only invited!

Ad for Worship Pastor – Please look out for the updated ad for the Worship Pastor for BHC (in due course, Godalming Minster) which will be available shortly. Please pray and share, share, share! Likewise we are still on the hunt a 4-11s Children’s Worker. These are both fundamental roles in the church and the Minster.

Regular Events

Reflective Prayer Mons at 8.45am online.

Busbridge Morning Prayer Weds at 9am online.

Hambledon Morning Prayer takes place on Wednesdays at 9am. All welcome.

Next Hambledon Coffee Morning with Hearing Aid Clinic is Weds 18th Jan 2023. All welcome.

Elsewhere

Godalming Baptist Church has its first Life Issue coming up on Saturday 22nd January from 10.00am-12.30pm (coffee from 9.30am) ‘Becoming a grandmother in your church and community’ Please see attachment for more details. 

The morning will be led by Kathleen Smith, an inspiring and encouraging Speaker and promises to be a really worthwhile morning. To book a place (£7) please contact Sally-01483-428646 or e-mail-pollard3@hotmail.co.uk  by Friday 13th January as a certain number of attendees is needed for the sessions to take place.

See the full 2023 Life Issues programme

The Surrey Appropriate Adult Service (SAAVS) offers support to vulnerable adults and young people who find themselves detained in Police custody. They are seeking more volunteers and could use your help. Attached are a number of resourses which we hope you could use locally to raise awareness and hopefully help appeal to the next round of volunteers.

Below is further details if you want to do a profile. https://www.cofeguildford.org.uk/whats-on/news/detail/2023/01/06/do-you-have-a-new-year-s-resolution-to-be-more-community-active-to-make-a-difference

Urgent  ‘Open the book’ assembly at Moss Lane – once a month on a Monday afternoon

In order to be able to continue, we are searching for folk who would like to act in a small team, sharing the gospel on a monthly basis for 1 hour to the children of ‘Moss Lane’ school. Please come and see what we do before you commit.

Contact Catherine Lawton 07973927233 / catherine@lawtonfamily.net

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

Don’t forget about…

Minster Update. The Minster Transition Steering Group have published a November Update, which can be found here.

Things in the following areas may not make the notices, but the latest info can be found on the web pages:

Church Family Support Fund
Do you know of anyone who might be struggling to pay their bills in this very challenging time? The Church Family Support Fund is here to help anyone, in the Godalming area, who is in need financially with a one off payment . All details about the fund and an application form can be found on the Busbridge church web site, or please contact Jill Johnston on 01483 422194.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

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.

Dear Friends,

Happy New Year! The weekly notices will be back in full next week, but just as a reminder of where and when to be this Sunday, here is the list of services for 8th January, as services return to normal:

Sunday 8 January

Topic: The star arrives
Readings: Isaiah 60: 1-6 and Matthew 2: 1-12

Busbridge

9.30AM Muddy Church
Heath Farm, meet at Busbridge Village Hall at 9.20AM
**Please do not park in the Village Hall carpark, as it is booked by another group**

11.15AM Classic Service
Busbridge Church
Led by: Andy Spencer | Speaker: Michael Baughen

6PM Busbridge Evening Service
Busbridge Church
Led by: Sarah Rowden | Speaker: Simon Willetts

Hambledon

10AM Morning Worship [Holy Communion]
Hambledon Church
Led by: Hilary Pettman | Speaker: Simon Willetts

Notices

BHC in 2023
Join us on Sundays and in Small Groups in 2023 as we explore the bible’s teaching and a Christian response to Living through Challenging Times.

Key Verse:
Do Not be Afraid, take courage, it is I
Mark 6:50

Coming Up:

See the events coming up next below or look up dates further ahead in the full calendar. Select the event for details and the location (online or on site).

Alpha in 2023 – BHC with Godalming parish (soon to be Godalming Minster), and will be running the next Alpha course at St Mark’s, starting on Thursday 26 January.

“Stay Curious” postcard invitations to the January Alpha course will be available at all four Godalming Minster churches this Christmas. There are plenty for people to take a supply to give out. Please ask a welcomer. Take a look a the Christmas video and think about whether you feel it’s time to respond yourself, and who you will invite…

‘The Bereavement Journey’ – a 6 week course for those who have been bereaved at any time, starting Tues 21 Feb – 28 March 2023, 7-9PM in the Old Rectory. Contact Sandra Wilkin e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org for more details.

Regular Events

Busbridge Morning Prayer Weds at 9am online.

Hambledon Morning Prayer takes place on Wednesdays at 9am. All welcome.

Next Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic is Weds 18th Jan 2023. All welcome.

Don’t forget about…

Minster Update. The Minster Transition Steering Group have published a November Update, which can be found here.

Things in the following areas may not make the notices, but the latest info can be found on the web pages:

Church Family Support Fund
Do you know of anyone who might be struggling to pay their bills in this very challenging time? The Church Family Support Fund is here to help anyone, in the Godalming area, who is in need financially with a one off payment . All details about the fund and an application form can be found on the Busbridge church web site, or please contact Jill Johnston on 01483 422194.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

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.

Dear Friends,

Thanks to all those who have sung their hearts out at the various carol events in the past week, at both churches, the Merry Harriers and the Pavilion by Howling Owl. It’s been wonderful!

Please read on for what’s happening between now and Christmas and the New Year, and on further for the notices for 2023.

The booking system for Christmas Eve means we are looking forward to welcoming some 775 people at St Peter & St Paul’s over the 4PM & 5.15PM services. We hope to have similarly full and atmospheric services at Hambledon, midnight and on Christmas Day. Please share and respond to the Great Invitation!

Simon’s Christmas reflection: The noise and quiet of Christmas is linked below.

The next notices will be published for Sunday 15th January – so please use the what’s on section to check for services and events between now and then.

Happy Christmas and Blessings for the New Year!

Coming Up Next

Christmas Services

CHRISTMAS EVE

Candlelit Celebration for all the family
4PM & 5.15PM | St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Godalming

BOOK NOW

Hambledon Crib Service | 4PM | Hambledon Church
Midnight Communions | 11PM | Busbridge Church | 11.30PM Hambledon Church

CHRISTMAS DAY

Family Celebration, followed by communion | 10AM | Busbridge Church
Family Celebration | 10AM | Hambledon Church
Christmas Choral Eucharist | 10AM | St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Godalming

SUNDAY 1 JANUARY

Topic: Rich indeed
Readings: Numbers 6:22-27, Galatians 4: 4-7 and Luke 2:15-21

10AM Benefice Combined Service
Leader & Speaker: David Jenkins
Hambledon Church & Online

***No service at Busbridge Church***

Sunday 8 January

Topic: The star arrives
Readings: Isaiah 60: 1-6 and Matthew 2: 1-12

Busbridge

9.30AM Muddy Church
Heath Farm, meet at Busbridge Village Hall at 9.20AM

11.15AM Classic Service
Busbridge Church

6PM Busbridge Evening Service
Busbridge Church

Hambledon

10AM Morning Worship [Holy Communion]
Hambledon Church

Notices

Gabe’s Advent Hunt – 18-23 Dec
Contrary to what you might think, there’s no age limit on Gabe’s Advent Hunt around Busbridge – you (and your younger people) can follow the trail, looking for the missing nativity characters anytime next week. It’s hopefully a nice thing to do while you wait and prepare for Christmas! Thanks to Ben Barnes for devising this activity.

28-30 December 10am-2pm. The Yew Tree Café will be closed, but you can still enjoy the cosy café space during the Christmas break. Board games and puzzles provided or bring your own to share. Home standard tea, coffee and hot chocolate free of charge. The Yew Tree café reopens at 8.30AM on Tuesday 3rd January.

Hello 2023!

BHC in 2023
Join us on Sundays and in Small Groups in 2023 as we explore the bible’s teaching and a Christian response to Living through Challenging Times.

Key Verse:
Do Not be Afraid, take courage, it is I
Mark 6:50

Events in the New Year

NEXUS talk 5 Jan ‘Finding yourself in the middle of something big’ – Jon Gidley

We start 2023 with a presentation by Jon Gidley, the Godalming Co-ordinator for Ukrainian refugees.  Jon had wanted to help house some Ukrainians fleeing the war and, from not knowing quite what to do, he found himself organising help and support for 160 Ukrainian refugees arriving in Godalming in desperate need of shelter and community!  Annual subs £20, visitor fee £5. Meet in the Yew Tree Café at 8.00pm and will start the evening with drinks and nibbles to welcome in the New Year before handing over to Jon for his talk.  More Details

Alpha in 2023 – BHC with Godalming parish (soon to be Godalming Minster), and will be running the next Alpha course at St Mark’s, starting on Thursday 26 January.

“Stay Curious” postcard invitations to the January Alpha course will be available at all four Godalming Minster churches this Christmas. There are plenty for people to take a supply to give out. Please ask a welcomer. Take a look a the Christmas video and think about whether you feel it’s time to respond yourself, and who you will invite…

‘The Bereavement Journey’ – a 6 week course for those who have been bereaved at any time, starting Tues 21 Feb – 28 March 2023, 7-9PM in the Old Rectory. Contact Sandra Wilkin e: pastoral@bhcgodalming.org for more details.

Fridge-Freezer for the Hut
Please let Liz Gorst know if you have a spare fridge-freezer that could replace the one in the CYF Hut. Max height 133cm.

Foundation Governors
We have been delighted to welcome Ruth Roseblade and Seb Cheek as new Foundation Governors for Busbridge Junior School this year and thank them for taking on this important role. We are also very thankful to Matt Rooke for his contribution and to Ron Downhill for his time as Chair.

Are you looking for a way to live out your faith and represent this Church family? We would love to hear from anyone who is keen to join the governor team. Please do contact Penny Harris or Beckie Whiteman via the Church Office.

church family news

Temporary Home needed for the Willetts
Simon and Naomi Willetts are looking for somewhere to live whilst investigations continue into the serious damp problem at their house in Hambledon. If you know of anything suitable, please contact Andrew Dunn (Hambledon church treasurer) on 07973748861, or by email to andrew.dunn@bhcgodalming.org.

Coming Up:

See the events coming up next below or look up dates further ahead in the full calendar. Select the event for details and the location (online or on site).

Regular Events

Busbridge Morning Prayer Weds at 9am online.

Hambledon Morning Prayer takes place on Wednesdays at 9am. All welcome.

Prayer gatherings for Ukraine (at Busbridge and Hambledon) have stopped for the time being, but prayer will continue in Sunday intercessions and mid-week morning prayer.

Next Hambledon Coffee Morning and Hearing Aid Clinic is Weds 18th Jan 2023. All welcome.

Churches Together Christmas lunch – volunteers are needed to help with the Christmas lunch on Christmas Day at the Baptist Church for anyone who would otherwise be on their own.  The form setting out the various roles is attached. We are also still looking for a volunteer co ordinator and so if anyone would be willing to do this, please let Sarah Higgins know (sarahhiggins478@gmail.com). Letter to guests and invitation form are also attached for anyone who would like to come.

Christmas Lunch VOLUNTEER Form

Christmas Lunch Invitation

Christmas Lunch Guest Form

Read the latest issue (NOVEMBER) of Churches Together in Godalming and District Link Up.

Don’t forget about…

Minster Update. The Minster Transition Steering Group have published a November Update, which can be found here.

Things in the following areas may not make the notices, but the latest info can be found on the web pages:

Church Family Support Fund
Do you know of anyone who might be struggling to pay their bills in this very challenging time? The Church Family Support Fund is here to help anyone, in the Godalming area, who is in need financially with a one off payment . All details about the fund and an application form can be found on the Busbridge church web site, or please contact Jill Johnston on 01483 422194.

Busbridge and Hambledon Churches are open daily for private prayer.

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.