Winbap Magazine 11 by Melissa Jay

CONTENTS

From the Editor

Heroes and Champions. This has been an interesting theme this edition. I mean we all have heroes don’t we? Sometimes we just don’t realise it. Someone that steps in very quietly when the need arises and then maybe disappears so fast you don’t really give it much thought.

Winbap Who’s Your Hero APRIL MAY 2013

FAMILYPage NEWS 4

“What is a hero without love for mankind”.

When I was a young Mum with two small boys, my hero was an older lady who went by the name of ‘Aunty Muriel’. Every Sunday morning, this lovely woman would take a tin of sweets to church and at the end of the service there would be a very long line of children, patiently waiting to see Aunty Muriel. She didn’t just give them a sweet and a smile though. She took the time to ask them how their week was, how had the situation from last week changed and did they need to pray for anything...then they got their sweet and it was the child standing behind’s turn.

doris lessing

For a family without Grandparents living in the area, it often brought tears to my eyes and made my heart glad that my child was being valued and seen with the love I felt for them. I knew that they were safe and that they were going to leave Aunty Muriel’s side feeling ten foot tall with all their cares eased. She was my hero, I just didn’t realise it at the time.

Last year was a great and busy year for Britain - let us take a brief look at some events of 2012: Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her Diamond Jubilee; Dr Rowan Williams announced his retirement as Archbishop of Canterbury; 30 year old Claire Squires collapsed and died whilst running the London Marathon - causing the public to donate £1M by the end of the year to the Samaritans; Chelsea won the European Cup for the first time in their history; Britain hosted the Olympics and we had the opportunity to witness many young, very talented men and women achieve incredible feats and break all sorts of sporting and personal records. Two female police officers were killed in Greater Manchester in a gun and grenade attack; surgeons carried out the first ever robotic open heart surgery in Wolverhampton. So what do all these events and people have in common? Well, some might argue that they are all heroes and heroines of our times -

“Someone who is admired for courage or noble qualities”.

This theme was chosen specifically for you Winbap. For all of you who have stood in the gap for someone else, maybe not even consciously. For those of you who have been courageous enough to be real and allow others to feel safe. For those of you who pour out themselves as volunteers, not only within Winbap but throughout our community, this is an amazingly generous church, and not only in the traditional sense. So, this is not a ‘look at how good we are’ edition, this is a ‘thank you’ edition. Thank you for all you do. Thank you for all you are and thank you that you take others with you when you’re just being yourselves. I thank my God every time I remember you...

Melissa

Now let us look at some other people from even further in the past. Esther, a woman married for her beauty but who, when she found out about a plan to eradicate all the Jews, took action in a courageous way. Three men who offered food, water and a place to sleep to a man on the run. A female judge, Deborah, who through her complete faith in God, took command and

convinced her people to fight against the odds. The prophet Micaiah, who courageously took risks, made a stand for God and spoke His Word, regardless of the consequences.

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APRIL 3rd - Ann Heppell

Maybe - in someone else’s eyes! Just today I read about how the MAY Christian is a battle.Davis For 1st - lifePeter those of you new to the faith, be 5th prepared!- It’s Chris not alwaysJealous bright and breezy-- life with Jesus brings 30th Jean Davis many blessings but also challenges and “mountains” we need to climb. There are many battles we have fought and still will fight - over work, money, friendships and other relationships, health, as well as battles within ourselves - of doubt, fear, worry, sadness and grief. However, our gracious God equips us all to overcome those battles, for NO King is saved by the size of his army, and no warrior escapes by his great strength (Psalm 33:16) but we can rely on the One who remains faithful and true, yesterday, today and forever!

Heroes & champions

James Findlow

Congratulation to Matt Isaac and Eleanor Gray who were married at Christ Church, Winchester Saturday 23rd March.

Family NewsPage “Love 6 recognizes no

barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.

MAYA ANGELOU

India Diaries Page 19

What amazes me is that Jesus is the greatest hero of all time but yet he made himself nothing, took the form of a servant and humbled himself to the point of death through crucifixion. This is just what the gospel is about. We don’t deserve such a Saviour but that is what grace is all about. Now because we have this grace that gives us a free ticket to eternal life by repenting of our sins and recognising that Jesus died for us, we are also to be heroes with God. We have been created so perfectly in God’s image that we also can walk with Jesus and be heroes with him. Have you ever had a dream or imagined changing something in the world? Or have you ever had a burning injustice on your heart? Being a hero isn’t just for the elite but it’s for you and me when we walk with Jesus. God can give you a burning in your heart for an injustice or the calling to go and do something crazy for him. Living out your calling gives you the chance to soar with God and live out what he has called you to do. We are called to be heroes. May you have the hero inside awakened and not pass up the opportunities God has set before you. See yourself as God sees you, a ‘superhero.’

BMS Heroes & birthday scheme Champions What about you? Are you are hero? Page 13

Congratulations to Ali, Naomi and Lily Tuft after welcoming Reuben James, Friday 5th April at 1.40am.

Food For Thought with Abi Page 25

Every Kid dreams of being awesome Page 11

Hero Page 29

If you would like to contribute to the next magazine, please send your submissions to winbapeditor@gmail. com and include your .jpgs as a separate file. The next deadline will be 14th May.

Apol Aitk addr artic editi The c sapeo

I’m not interested in treading water until a new senior pastor arrives. My desire is to work with the Lord and you to move this church forward. My desire is to become more like the church that Jesus wants us to be: more like the church he deserves.

we consulted the message was always the same: ‘We want to carry on being partners in what God has been blessing and move forward into new things too’. We kept finding people of all ages with a passion to know and worship the Lord better (‘Presence’), a determination to be more committed and consistent followers (‘Discipleship’), a concern to support each other (‘Care’) and a desire to extend the Kingdom (‘Mission’).

I had a part in facilitating the consultation process that led to the ‘church profile’ and the specification for our future senior pastor. The process was hugely encouraging. Like letters through a stick of rock, whatever group

We live and worship within a unique city where there are lots of opportunities to partner in the gospel with other churches. Without compromising our own values, we are keen to work with them whenever it will help to

Thank you for appointing me as an elder. I promise to do my best to serve you because in the Kingdom, that’s what leadership means.

demonstrate God’s love in action. Secular thinking dominates areas of life such as business, the media, local government and education. As Christians in the city we are called to be salt and light preserving that which is good (like salt) and when we can showing better ways (like light). Being a church member is not a spectator sport. As members of Christ’s body here we all have a part to play. In faith, some of you need to step out into new activities, trusting that God will equip you. Equally, some of you need to step back from activities that were once right for you and remember that it is more important ‘to be’ than ‘to do’. 1

Striving does not impress God. (He loves you anyway). Besides, striving is bad for your health.

beautiful; tough; so strong it is difficult to divide; each facet reflecting light; shining like stars.

One of the brilliant things about our church is that we are a ‘not only, but also’ people. We not only seek to be people of the Bible, but we also seek to be people Spirit-filled. We not only want to be ‘ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven,’ ourselves, but we also want to share our faith with others. We not only want to make our city an even better place to live, but we also want to make a difference much further afield.

As my little epistle draws to an end I want to pay tribute to Tim’s leadership and professionalism during what must be a difficult time for him and his family. At this time he knows he is not going to be the next senior pastor in this church but he is totally committed to continuing to lead us during the interregnum. We would do well to learn from his exemplary graciousness and steadfastness.

There are risks in being a ‘not only, but also’ church. One obvious risk is that these different gifts and ministries compete with each other rather than complementing each other. Advocates of one emphasis delude themselves into thinking of themselves and their experience more highly than they ought, instead of ‘considering others as better than ourselves’. Competition for resources follows, and divisions result. Perhaps the risk is heightened at a time we are waiting for the arrival of a senior pastor? We need patience (and we need it now). We are a ‘not only, but also’ church because of the ways that God has dealt with us in the past both individually and collectively. Such dealings may be profound and transformational. It is therefore only natural that we want to share what is precious to us, but let’s adopt a bit of maturity and humility rather than risk division. (Multiplication, not division, is God’s plan for the Church). Rather than becoming like a wobbly crazy paving, my vision for our church is more like a diamond. Eye-catching; 2

During this interregnum I want to see people converted, prodigals returned, the wounded restored, the poor supported and the sick healed. We don’t need passing fads based on untested teaching, sterile arguments about minor doctrinal terms, or more personality cults. Focusing on main and plain teachings and practices will help, but what we need most is more love and more power flowing from the nature of God himself. Remember that Jesus prayed the world would know we are his disciples because of our love for one another, ( John 17:23). Therefore, let us ‘make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace’ (Ephesians 4:13) as we seek to ‘live a life worthy of the calling of the gospel’ (Philippians 1:27) ‘Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds. Let us not give up the habit of meeting together...but let us encourage one another...’ (Hebrews 10:23-25).

Cliff

Name: Rachel Dawson Age: 37 Occupation: Full Time Mum How long have you been a part of Winbap? 4 years Volunteer Role: Cluster leader, play in the worship band and help in Sparklers Why volunteer? Because it was needed and it helps to get integrated into the church. What do you get from it? It helps me to maintain a close relationship with God than I would have otherwise because of the need to pray and prepare for the roles before I do them. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Do something/anything as it helps you feel a part of the church.

Dear Beloved of Winchester Baptist Church, It is such a privilege to serve God alongside each of you. I thank God that He has brought us together to work out His purposes for us individually and corporately on our journey with Him. My prayer for each one of us is that we will learn to see ourselves and each other through God’s eyes and not our own and the world’s and that through fully knowing who we are in Hm we will have the courage and confidence to be who He has called us to be and walk where He has called us to walk. I pray that God will give us the boldness to speak what He shows us in each other’s lives in words of affirmation and encouragement and that God will be honoured through us honouring each other and everyone else He brings into our lives. How precious each one of you is to God. How He delights in you and loves you. What an adventure He has laid out for your life. Walk closely with Him every step of the way. May God bless each one of you with His presence and peace. Marie

Name: Jane Aslet Age: 48 Occupation: Special Needs Assistant How long have you been a part of Winbap? 40 years Volunteer Role: Sparkler’s Leader Housegroup Leader Why volunteer? Using my gifts from God and I love working with young children. What do you get from it? Joy, fun, fulfilment and satisfaction. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Go for it! Funny moments? Children often make us laugh. We will be deep into a Bible story and they will tell you about something else totally unconnected - Did you know Tim Williamson likes the water flume at Peppa Pig World for example.

“Someone who is admired for courage or noble qualities”.

It is not always famous people, “grown ups” or the wealthy that are considered heros. Sometimes it is the ‘little people”. In the recent film “Les Miserables” I have to confess to being particularly moved by the scene, and forgive me if you haven’t seen it, where Gavroche is given a medal by Javert. For those of you who don’t know the story, Gavroche is a young boy - his signature song is called “Little people”- who enthusiastically and with every fibre in his body fights for the French Revolution. I won’t spoil it by telling you what happens, you will need to see the film for yourself, but suffice it to say that there are some links in the film that can be made to the conversion to faith and the challenges we may come across... Now let us look at some other people from even further in the past. Esther, a woman married for her beauty but who, when she found out about a plan to eradicate all the Jews, took action in a courageous way. Three men who offered food, water and a place to sleep to a man on the run. A female judge, Deborah, who through her complete faith in God, took command and

convinced her people to fight against the odds. The prophet Micaiah, who courageously took risks, made a stand for God and spoke His Word, regardless of the consequences.

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What about you? Are you are hero?

Maybe - in someone else’s eyes! Just today I read about how the Christian life is a battle. For those of you new to the faith, be prepared! It’s not always bright and breezy - life with Jesus brings many blessings but also challenges and “mountains” we need to climb. There are many battles we have fought and still will fight - over work, money, friendships and other relationships, health, as well as battles within ourselves - of doubt, fear, worry, sadness and grief. However, our gracious God equips us all to overcome those battles, for NO King is saved by the size of his army, and no warrior escapes by his great strength (Psalm 33:16) but we can rely on the One who remains faithful and true, yesterday, today and forever!

We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love be with us Lord even as we put our hope in you! (Psalm 33:20) If you were to ask me who is my hero, I wouldn’t know where to start. When I look at our congregation and church family, you are all heroes! You all have fought battles....and won! Without naming anyone personally, I believe if you look around you on a Sunday, you will all recognise people who have “noble qualities” and certainly know of someone who has shown courage in their battle with the enemy that is around and within us. Yes, we may have some scars, but God is the ultimate Healer and we battle on... for His glory!

 

Name: Michael Gale

(some of the lyrics)

They laugh at me, these fellas, Just because I am small They laugh at me because I’m not hundred feet tall! I tell ‘em there’s a lot to learn down here on the ground The world is big, but little people turn it around! A worm can roll a stone A bee can sting a bear A fly can fly around Versailles ‘Cos flies don’t care! A sparrow in a hut Can make a happy home A flea can bite the bottom Of the Pope in Rome!

Age: 34 Occupation: Teacher How long have you been a part of Winbap? 12 years Volunteer Role: Playing in the band.

Goliath was a bruiser who was tall as the sky. But David threw a right and gave him one in the eye. I never read the Bible but I know that it’s true It only goes to show what little people can do! And little people know When little people fight We may look easy pickings but we got some bite! So never kick a dog because he’s just a pup You better run for cover when the pup grows up!

Babs Klampe

Why volunteer? Because you needed a trumpet player! What do you get from it? Much needed practice. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Not really.

Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies. Mother Teresa

Winbap

APRIL MAY 2013

FAMILY NEWS

Name: Dave Stanbrook Age: Undisclosed Occupation: Decorator How long have you been a part of Winbap? As long as Alison. Volunteer Role: Worship Band Location Cluster Why volunteer? Enjoyment of music What do you get from it? Feeling of being involved. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Listen to God, try and find out what it is He would like you to be involved in. Favourite Winbap moment: I enjoyed the Church Weekend Away being with everyone.

“What is a hero without love for mankind”. doris lessing

BMS

birthday scheme

APRIL 3rd - Ann Heppell MAY 1st - Peter Davis 5th - Chris Jealous 30th - Jean Davis Congratulation to Matt Isaac and Eleanor Gray who were married at Christ Church, Winchester Saturday 23rd March.

“Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.

MAYA ANGELOU

Congratulations to Ali, Naomi and Lily Tuft after welcoming Reuben James, Friday 5th April at 1.40am.

long time ago in a (galaxy far, far away) some members of our congregation were invited to tell us about what they would be up to on Monday morning and how we could pray for them to help them be Jesus to those around them. It got me thinking about whom I could be Jesus to. Deep into round two of maternity leave and with limited social life I struggled to see how I could be Jesus to anyone. I then had what is technically known as a “Doh!” moment. What about my children? (For those of you rolling your eyes, I’m still relatively new at this parenting thing so give me a break.) Okay, so how can I be Jesus to a toddler and a baby as he was then? (Stop rolling your eyes now, that’s just rude.) I thought about Jesus and the disciples. I imagine that a lot of the time it must have felt like dealing with a nursery class for Jesus: frustrating, tiring, heartbreaking and rewarding at times. His response, amongst many other things, was to show amazing patience and to teach them. Being patient with a small child is not something that comes naturally to me but I have learnt to put into place techniques that allow the fruit of self-control to grow. When it came to teaching I looked back at the example set by my own parents and particularly my mother. From the children’s devotional book she read to me many times to the family prayer we said every night before bed and especially the wonderful songs which have stuck with me over the years and I now sing to my own children (whether they like it or not) this busy woman with four children

made sure that I was spiritually fed. She is a tough act to follow but I can’t help feeling a little sense of achievement when Isaac says “amen” after a prayer in church (and a little embarrassed when it’s after a tannoy announcement in Sainsbury’s) or asks me to sing “Jesus loves me, this I know” when he is settling down to sleep. The pay might be rubbish, the hours are pretty grim and it involves a lot of wiping of things but the hardest part of being a parent for me is that responsibility of showing and telling my children that there is a Father in heaven who loves them. Thank goodness for the examples of Jesus and my Mum; two of my heroes. Jesus loves me; this I know For the Bible tells me so Little ones to Him belong, They are weak, but He is strong. Yes, Jesus loves me, Yes, Jesus loves me, Yes, Jesus loves me, The Bible tells me so. Naomi Best

Name: Roland Burberry Age: 58 Occupation: Self Employed (Retired from MOD) Health & Safety Manager How long have you been a part of Winbap? 12 years Volunteer Role: Health & Safety Adviser HOTS & Sozo Why volunteer? Have suitable experience and wanted to offer help and be useful to others - to be obedient. What do you get from it? Sense of worth, value, belonging - feel good factor. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Go ahead, do it, you will be blessed. Do something you enjoy!

EVERY KID DREAMS OF BEING

AWESOME

What kid doesn’t live out their childhood as an astronaut, a superhero, a prima ballerina, a battle champion? None! It’s such a beautiful thing to watch children playing. They seem to have no grasp of reality, caught up in the joys of a fantasy world where they are princes and princesses; the world is their oyster and they are free to design, dream and create at their pleasure! Being the incontrovertible academic that I am, my childhood dream was to become a marine biologist; it’s admittedly not as glamorous as an evil-villainbusting-warrior-prince-astronautsuperhero, but I was totally infatuated with the concept! But then I grew up. Our friends, our parents, our schools and our societies: all of them tell us to ‘get our head out of the clouds’, to ‘stop daydreaming’ and to be people of reality. The joy of dreaming, of adventuring through life, is sucked out of us! Everything in the world leads away from a childlike spirit of adventure. The world which we inhabit demands a firm grasp of reality – there are bills to

pay, endless lists to accomplish, deadlines to meet and goals to achieve. And along the way, we forget the dreams that we once had for our futures, dreams that shined bright with excitement and exhilaration.

“

I challenge you to consider: we were made to be dreamers – yes, engaged with reality – but dreamers first.

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Every kid dreams of being AWESOME. Am I right? Or am I right?!

Romans 12:2 says: “Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect [NLT]”. You are called not to inhabit the mundane rumblings of this Earth but instead to be filled to overflowing with adventure, joy, life and creativity from the Holy Spirit! God’s desire for us, as his children, is to live truly rooted in total assurance of our identity as princes and princesses, and to live out that life in full abundance! Despite what everyone else in our lives would tell us, the truth about who we actually are is indeed

God is more interested in your full obedience than your full understanding. You are not a volunteer. You have been enlisted. Do what he tells you. Full obedience is the greenhouse of the miraculous.

Mike Pilavachi

that: the truth. And it’s a total game-changer. When do we lose the desire to change the world? When do we stop dreaming? When do we cease to be princes and princesses on adventures of epic proportions? It happens when we forget who we are, when we forget our infinite potential in Christ Jesus. It happens when we forget our true identity, that God, the INFINITE creator has given us infinite co-creative authority and has placed dreams and desires in our hearts for a reason! He has filled us to bursting with desires which reflect the essence of what our destinies in him are – as CHAMPIONS! Destiny flows directly from identity. When you realise the truth about who you are in the eyes of your Father, your wildest dreams for your future suddenly transition from a realm of impossibility to a realm of potentiality. Our dreams of awesome things in our destinies are totally in line with what God

has for us because they are the manifest expression of who God says we are. We are sons and daughters of the Most High King; it’s a perfect adventure in which we get to discover who we are and change the world simultaneously! And therefore it becomes all about realising who we actually are and moving in that; our dreams are simply examples of how we can express the reality of what God has placed in us. Becoming the champion you really are is not actually a challenging thing; it requires a journey of self-discovery which is founded in revelation about the heart of God and developed through hearing what God’s will is for your life. I’m now at university training to be a doctor, getting closer year-by-year to curing some of the Earth’s most hideous diseases. I look back on my childhood adventures and laugh because there’s something about 10-year-old Isaac that seems so much wiser than the current one ... he’d got it! He’d understood that his dreams were the reflection of the very essence of who he was created to be. And now that same 10-year-old Isaac, but with 10 years more experience, has realised that his dreams of becoming a super-world-savingmarine-biologist were just a TASTE of the reality that is now upon him. Isaac Myers

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You were made to be AWESOME. So now, go and discover who your Father made you to be.

Sam and Ash The Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race started in Devizes, Wiltshire and finished just downstream of Westminster Bridge in central London, opposite the Houses of Parliament. The race has been held annually over the Easter Weekend since 1948. and is 125 miles long and has 77 portages. The first 52 miles are along the Kennet and Avon Canal to Reading, the next 55 miles are on the River Thames to Teddington. The final 17 mile section is on the tidal portion of the Thames. Nearly one third of the competitors in the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race 2013 pulled out because of low overnight temperatures. Race organisers said 161 crews had entered for the non-stop 125 miles (201km) endurance event. “Twelve decided not to enter because of the conditions, with 49 retiring - a phenomenal number,” a spokesman said. The race is a severe test of skill and stamina which produces a memorable sense of achievement for those successfully completing it. Sam Smith and Ash Winterbottom made it! Both they and the kayak were covered in ice as dawn broke on Easter Sunday morning, but still they kept paddling! 153 teams started, only 92 finished, but Sam and Ash completed the 125 miles in 22hrs 44mins, coming in 30th place. Not only an amazing personal achievement, but they’ve won the University Challenge Cup for being the fastest uni team, and they’ve raised over £1200 for Alzheimer’s Society and Devon Air Ambulance. Huge congratulations lads! *Sources from BBC, www.dwrace.org & proud Mum Maggie Smith’s FB page....thanks Maggie!! 12

Everybody loves a superhero. Most of us have a superhero that we secretly dream of being like because we grew up with diﬀerent superhero models. Take Batman for example. He is a well-known fictional superhero that myself and many of my friends grew up with. He fights crime for the common good of everyone, bringing peace and order. He is driven by hurt and anger from witnessing the murder of his parents and so he swore to make sure all criminals were caught with his greater idea of justice. I admire Batman’s passion and willingness to be radical. In the Bible, thousands of year ago, a prophet named Samuel came to Jesse, to choose one of his sons to be future King. Seven of Jesse’s sons passed before Samuel just to be told that they were not the right fit to be king. Jesse’s 7 sons were strong and handsome so why were none of them chosen to be king? Samuel told Jesse to go and fetch for his youngest son who was in the field all day tending the sheep. When Samuel saw David he knew straight away that he was to be king. A young man who was not as strong and handsome as his brothers to be king... Really? This made me wonder, what is the criteria for a superhero? Along with Batman’s bravery and determination, I also see how David was brave and full of courage. No man, not even King Saul himself, would fight Goliath, which shows the magnitude of boldness & sheer guts it would take for a boy to stand against a giant... not to mention David had no armour. That’s very heroic. What I find interesting is that the heroes that we know of in today’s society are often covered in glory, such as singers, actors, celebrities etc. Everybody knows about everyone else’s heroic acts. But let’s take a look at the life of Jesus and how he laid his life down for the payment of sins. That to me, is the most heroic person in all of history. Can you imagine for a minute, somebody so perfect, sinless and without any wrong, yet giving up his life and body to be tortured for people like you and me to spend eternity with him? Jesus, a man that walked and talked like you and me but at the same time was God in human flesh. How can this be? Could the greatest hero of all time and the Saviour of the world be like you and me? Jesus was a hero in disguise. He still is for many. What amazes me is that Jesus is the greatest hero of all time but yet he made himself nothing, took the form of a servant and humbled himself to the point of death through crucifixion. This is just what the gospel is about. We don’t deserve such a Saviour but that is what grace is all about. Now because we have this grace that gives us a free ticket to eternal life by repenting of our sins and recognising that Jesus died for us, we are also to be heroes with God. We have been created so perfectly in God’s image that we also can walk with Jesus and be heroes with him. Have you ever had a dream or imagined changing something in the world? Or have you ever had a burning injustice on your heart? Being a hero isn’t just for the elite but it’s for you and me when we walk with Jesus. God can give you a burning in your heart for an injustice or the calling to go and do something crazy for him. Living out your calling gives you the chance to soar with God and live out what he has called you to do. We are called to be heroes. May you have the hero inside awakened and not pass up the opportunities God has set before you. See yourself as God sees you, a ‘superhero.’ 13

Heroes & champions

James Findlow

Name: Ann Hook Occupation: Primary School Teacher, though at present a Special Needs Support Assistant. How long have you been a part of Winbap? 6 years. Volunteer Role: COGS leader for All Stars Why volunteer? I chose to get involved in the children’s work when we cam because Rebekah was going into the groups and I wanted to take an active part in what she was doing and learning on a Sunday morning. What do you get from it? Its a lot of fun and I love seeing the children having fun, learning about Jesus and making good friendships. Also working alongside other adult helpers in COGS and playing a part in the fellowship. Favourite Winbap moment? Probably when the penny drops and they really get what you’re talking about!

Name: Luke Meharg Age: 33 Occupation: Customs Officer How long have you been a part of Winbap? About 6 years. Volunteer Role: Duty Person for the evening service. What do you get from it? Without volunteers the church would not function and tis only a few hours and I’d like to give something back to the church. Why volunteer? I enjoy welcoming people and talking to them and generally making sure people have a safe God filled evening. Favourite Winbap Moment? Got to be the coffee after every service.

Name: Margaret Heffer Age: 73 Occupation: Retired How long have you been a part of Winbap? 29 years Volunteer Role: Volunteer at Oasis Christian Centre in Romsey, WBC Mission Group, part of Christians Together in Kings Somborne, help with Kings Somborne Parish magazine & organise a walking group. Why volunteer? Great interest in overseas mission and third world issues. I feel its important to be part of the local community. What do you get from it? Fun, challenges and a sense of community and fellowship. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Consider your commitment - it’s a big job! 14

MY HERO: Isaiah

I imagine we all have champions. I do have some… Jesus has to be first choice. My bin man is in the top ten (who would faithfully do that in all weathers to earn such a meagre living?). The surgeon who courageously went into my spine in 2000 with the brave words ‘We can’t find adequate targets for surgery on the MRI scan but I will find them. I hope you will walk again. I really do…. I’m very hopeful.’ (!) There are also the champions that we gather along the way who look great, until we get to know them a little only to discover that they have just as many wrinkles as we do. I want to be able to look up to my champions. To gaze on them and see more and more the longer my eyes and thoughts rest on them. They need to be challenging but human… and yet, in the capable and magnificent hands of God, totally superhuman and rivetingly astonishing characters. Isaiah was like that. He’s my champion. He makes something burn in my heart. He was a decent guy. A priest. Probably a young man who daily went about his business in the temple. Nothing in scripture suggests he was anything but one of the best, upright and God-fearing and serving the people acceptably well. And then one day, God moved mightily on him and he found himself in the middle of an emotional and spiritual breakdown. He was undone. All the finery of his position, his status and image was suddenly as nothing. He was wrecked by the God he served. Caught up in a terrifying vision he saw 15

the Holiness of God and the worship of Heaven. Superlative on superlative was the cry of the angelic beings. “Holy, Holy, Holy God…” I can identify with Isaiah. I don’t mean that at all arrogantly. Bumbling along… the odd preach here… a little ministry… seeing God touch lives now and again… and suddenly KAPOW! Somewhere along the way even Isaiah had missed God! Can’t we all be just like that? As Baptist-ish folk we are tend to be free of a lot of the church-image stuff, all the accoutrements of religion, but just as Isaiah was undone so can we be. Right in the midst of it all. Everything we thought we had sorted, all that we are is suddenly rubbish before the awesome and terrifying holiness of God. Isaiah was perfectly sincere about God before this moment – it’s just that he had either stopped burning or may be never been on fire for God. At this moment he knew it. Security gone (the king had died) he suddenly saw The King on His Throne… mighty, majestic, His train flowing down and filling the temple where Isaiah worked and worshipped. What happened to Isaiah can and possibly should happen to all of us

at some point. It was his call. He was totally undone by the reality of the God he thought he knew. In a flash, he is bereft of all sense of personal well-being; he suffers an undignified crash to the extent that he clearly thought he must perish, such was the onslaught of God’s glory. Stop right there! If you are reading the magazine, stop right there and close your eyes. Wherever you are, whatever you are doing…imagine God suddenly comes to you like that……… You are ruined. It’s true that you have been living in a way that honoured God - leading worship, witnessing through Healing on The Streets, being a wonderful parent to your children and generally being a great blessing to your church BUT in this moment your Heavenly Father has blasted to smithereens the box you have unwittingly constructed for Him… and with that the over-arching presence of The Holy One flaming above, you are reduced to a place where all you can do is to plead for His mercy and forgiveness. “My lips are unclean”… “The people I serve are unclean”, “Woe is me…”

As you sob and cower, face down, crying out that you must be forever lost, a fiery being comes with a red hot coal from your own altar and touches your lips, declaring, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin is atoned for.” This, brothers and sisters, is our God! Recognise Him? If I am honest I have to say this is not the fashion in which I am aware of God in my daily bumbling along. Make no mistake, it is HIM. Any lack of cognisance at this point is, I am afraid to say, on our part, not His. We just do miss God. We think we don’t, but we do. Daily. But there’s more. Suddenly a voice speaks. Deep, sonorous thundering. It is no less than the Lord of Lords. “Whom shall I send? And who will go for Us?” And Isaiah speaks (probably, I am guessing, in quite a small, possibly agonised voice,) “Here am I. Send me!” (Notice, please, he does not say “Here I am…”). In those few moments, a life is totally changed. Indeed, history is changed. Three and a half thousand years later we are still speaking of this extraordinary epiphany moment. But there’s more (there always is where the Lord of Lords is concerned). If you will excuse my paraphrase, “Now that you have glimpsed the reality of who I am, now that you have seen the reality of My glory, now you know, My son, what it feels like to be in My presence… go and tell them. Prophesy to them… speak truth to them about how far they are from Me… how I will deal with them if they do not change… if they will not willing come back to Me.”

“For how long shall I tell them this, Lord?” “Until everything is devastated… until it’s all finished..” This amazing call on the life of the most remarkable prophet in history isn’t just a historical tale to be recounted at times as we preach and teach and trundle our way through church, it is an encounter intended to model something for men and women of God in these days, to ponder, and to catalyse us into Holy Fire-Blown activity for God. To go out and tell the Truth as it is. “I have seen the Lord, and I need to tell you, guys….” I sat at the weekend and surveyed the headlines of The Times. I was totally dismayed, sickened even, at the nature of the catch-phrase sin-laden banners aimed at the minds and emotions of millions of people in this land. Can it really that bad? Yes, it is. “Oh, God, have mercy on us… Here am I, Lord. Send me”. David Strutt

I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.

Name: Ron Sweetenham Age: 75 Occupation: Retired How long have you been a part of Winbap? 8 years Volunteer Role: Honour Cluster volunteer Why volunteer? I was press ganged! What do you get from it? Pleasure from seeing old folks happy and enjoying God’s and each others company. Advice for anyone thinking of volunteering? Do so. Favourite Winbap moment? Silver Service Funny Moments? I’m not allowed to tell!

Mary Angelou

TV Programme? Most things in the Murder Mystery genre, Big fan of Castle on Alibi

Name: Christine Gardner Age: Over 60! Occupation: Retired

Meetthe t n e d u t S Name : Michael Sewell Age: 18

How long have you been a part of Winbap? 9 years

Course studying: History and the Modern World

Volunteer Role: Teacher in COGS Helper with Friday Fun

Where are you from? Medway in Kent

Why volunteer? A way of serving Jesus.

How long have you been coming to Winchester Baptist Church? Since September 2012

What do you get from it? Pleasure of helping children and their families. Satisfaction of doing God’s will, helping children to grow in faith.

What’s your favourite… Thing about WinBap? So many things to choose from! I would have to say the overwhelming friendliness of everyone at the church!

Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Pray first. Then if you think you can do it, volunteer.

Home-cooked meal? Roast Dinner! Song? Depends on Genre! Awake and Alive by Skillet in the rock genre, but for worship, I do love ‘Come now fount of every blessing.’ Bible verse? John 3:16

If you found yourself on a desert island, what three things would you take with you? My Laptop, My bible and pictures of my family. What was your dream occupation as a child? Computer Programmer If you had a day to do anything, what would you do? Play for my local football team-Ebbsfleet What is your first memory? My Racing Car Birthday Cake, I think I must have been 2 or 3 What’s something you learnt in the last week? Where the Number 1 Bus Goes! What’s the last film you saw at the cinema? Les Miserables If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be? Belgium What are you listening to right now? Nothing as everyone in my hall is still asleep! Would you rather… bungee jump or skydive? Skydive Have all summer or all winter? Summer Go way back in time and meet your ancestors (pre 1800s) or go way into the future and meet your great great great grandchildren (Post 2200)? Ancestors!

Name: Clare Gregory Age: 32 Occupation: Speech Therapist How long have you been a part of Winbap? 2 1/2 years Volunteer Role: Street Pastors Stewarding Rota Creche Communion Rota Cooking at Edge Residentials Why volunteer? I wanted to be involved in taking out God’s love onto the streets of Winchester and to serve my Church family. What do you get from it? I am fulfilling what God has asked me to do. Favourite moment? Being out with Street Pastors each month and bringing God’s presence to Winchester Nightlife.

Name: Carol Allenson

Name: David Hook

Age: None of your business! :)

Age: 52

Occupation: Teaching Assistant How long have you been a part of Winbap? 4 years Volunteer Role: All Starts (COGS) Why volunteer? The leaders were appealing for more COGS volunteers! Its something I’d done before in our previous church - so I knew it was something I could do. What do you get from it? Its a commitment. Don’t say yes unless you have the time - but if you do you might just surprise yourself. God is sure to bless you more than you expect. Funny Moment? I get great stories from them all (usually about you lot!) I’ve learned that if you ever have a rodent problem and can’t get the rat man, Alison Stanbrook provides an excellent service!

Occupation: Civil Servant How long have you been a part of Winbap? 6 years Volunteer Role: Projectionist Why volunteer? I was asked and it seemed like a good idea! What do you get from it? I feel I am making a contribution to worship. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Go for it! Favourite Winbap moment? The support from church members while I was ill. Funniest moments: Pressing the wrong button so as to project the next song just when the talk was reaching it’s climax... (and then seeing another projectionist doing exactly the same thing.)

25/26

I am glad to have MAR CH Paul Bulkeley for company on this, my fifth trip. My contact, John Rajiah, is waiting for us at Chennai airport. He is a third-generation Christian; his grandfather was a Hindu priest who came to Christ through a tract handed to him by a missionary. John graduated from the Bible College of Wales, and is married to Catherine, a French lady. Under Eternal Word Ministries (EWM) he has opened 307 churches in Tamil Nadu and other parts of India and Nepal. He has a number of children’s homes around the state, and in Nepal. All are walled campuses, some with a separate school building (for orphans and local children), clinic for locals, carpentry and sewing classes. As the money comes in he has wells drilled for communities, and regular feeding-programmes for Dalits, and a ministry to lepers. We rest and shower in the beautiful guest house, take breakfast, and set out for the 500km journey to Pudukkottai, where Paul will speak at a pastors’ conference. On the way we stop near Thiyagadurugam (don’t worry, I can’t pronounce it either!) at another children’s home that was only partly built when I was there in 2011. It has 300 children, a church, and a building for abused women. We are garlanded by two little girls, and say a word to the 19

children before they entertain us with beautiful dances. Another 120kms and we are in another guest house in Pudukkottai.

After breakfast we drive a few M ARC H miles out of town to Cauvery Nagar village and a children’s home I know well. Again we are garlanded before enjoying a series of energetic and beautiful dance sequences. We go back to town and a church just around the corner from our guest-house, where fifty pastors and wives are gathered. Paul addresses them morning and afternoon on the ethics of business, and reminds them of the changes he has seen in India over the last 17 years. The pastors are challenged and impressed by his talk, and telephone John Rajiah (who is back in Chennai) to tell him. Later, Pastor Daniel, Paul’s contact, picks him up. He will face 2000 kms and more lectures before we meet again at the airport. I visit a village, where there is a brand-new church, made of bamboo and thatch, where 50 people of all

ages are seated on the floor. I tell a children’s story, with visual aids, before talking to the adults.

Corn flakes and cold milk M A RC H at breakfast – a first for me in India! I have one hour and a half to address the conference. I recognise some of these pastors from two years ago. After lunch we drive outside town to the leper colony I visited last trip. Now there is a sizeable church of believers. I address them briefly, and then help to distribute food. Some hold out fingerless hands, but these are not the worse cases. A brief rest back at the guesthouse, and again we visit the children’s home. I meet Priya, the little girl whom we sponsor, now two years older and so sweet. We have a few gifts for her. A large congregation meet in the hall, and again I tell a children’s story and then address the older ones. We are never expected to sit through a whole service, but come in to be greeted, talk, and then pray for people. Whenever a child appears for prayer it’s nearly always “Pray for his/her education.” School is taken very seriously in India.

Another village and another MAR CH church. How many village churches in England would envy India such large congregations, with so many children and teenagers? The response to the stories is enthusiastic and noisy; children and adults pore over their Bibles during the preaching. Outside the heat hits like a furnace as we head for our air-conditioned car. After lunch and a long rest we are planned to minister in Kalamavur, a village church I have visited before. In 2004 it was just a bamboo and thatch hut, but by 2011 an imposing church had been built, dominating the entrance to the village. John Rajiah now concentrates his efforts on village evangelism, as the great cities are well-served with churches. The interpreter tells me that, when I preached there in 2011, a very depressed, suicidal lady, responded to the message, was saved and delivered, and has been attending ever since. There follows the usual line of people desiring prayer for healing, but one of them is a man who announces that he wants to be saved! These things make it worth all the travelling, and the waiting in airport lounges.

M ARC H

I have not seen this church in Thiyagadurugam since 2001, my first visit to India. There is not much spare room in this morning service. Again, I commence with a story for the children before concentrating on the adults. After that it’s a fast drive back to Chennai, a brief rest and shower in the guest house, before I am once more at the airport. Paul Bulkeley has not only lectured but has baptised a number of converts. In India, the third millennium BC sits beside the third millennium AD. Satellite dishes bring TV to villages that would not have looked out of place here in the Iron Age. A girl guides oxen as they tread out the corn on a threshing floor, just as they did before the time of Abraham. Easter Sunday

Back on the road for Chennai, but M ARC H once more we visit the church at Kalamavur, where there is a sewing class for ladies. There will always be work for a woman who can handle a sewing machine and work out a pattern. I tell them that, after their mother, a sewing machine is “a girl’s best friend.” I pray for each of them, and then we drive on back to Thiyagaduragam, where we check into a hotel. It is dark when we re-visit the children’s home, and 300 children and staff are waiting on the patio. They enjoy the story of the goat who wanted to be a lion, and all practice the bleats and the roars.

Nevertheless, India is in the throes of an industrial revolution that, for better or worse, is driving her onward and upward. Hindu nationalism is making things difficult for Christians in some states, but Tamil Nadu is relatively peaceful, although the big, openair campaigns are no longer viable. Nevertheless, there is a good response to the gospel, and little backsliding. May the Lord continue to bless the ministries of pastors Daniel and John Rajiah, and the many others like them.

In the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter, and sharing of pleasures. For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed. Khalil gibran 20

Last Sunday, before and after the morning service, I managed to grab a snapshot of the large amazing group of volunteers that help Winchester Baptist Church run. I sit in a privileged position because I know what most of you do, even though you do it quietly and few are ever seen doing it. Those who were photographed (sorry to those I missed, my phone battery was dying), were given a questionnaire to fill in and you’ll find some of the results throughout our aptly titled magazine ‘Heroes & Champions’. Sundays are filled with volunteers in the band, on the sound, on projection, preparing communion, watching and teaching our children, leading our worship and welcoming those walking through our doors. Not to mention the Duty Person who is left to wait for everyone to finish their coffee, also served by volunteers, before they can secure the building and head home themselves. Even a list of what you do on a Sunday is quite amazing, but it carries on throughout the week with lifts for older folk, visiting retirement homes and hospitals, working bees, helping with CAP, Parenting courses, writing prayers for the service sheet, helping in the office and of course Clusters. We wanted to take this time to say to each and every one of you, Winbap’s very own ‘Heroes and Champions’...thank you. Your contribution is just amazing and we as a body are the richer for it. As you cast your eyes over the list to the right, please take some time out to pray for each other. These are all people with a life outside Winbap’s many walls and yet they have taken the time to commit themselves for the benefit of others. Once again... Thank You!!!

Gary & Sys Aitkenhead Carol & Nick Allenson Caroline Andrews Lynne Archer Chris & Jane Aslet Nic Aslet Carol & David Bailey Catherine Bartlett Adrian Baxter Nicki & Mark Beaumont Martin Bennetts Naomi Best Abi Bettle Andrew Breakwell Carolyn Breakwell Josh Breakwell Irene Brown Naomi & Paul Bulkeley Roland & Trish Burberry Mark Cole Janet Clarke

Ben & Mari Clifton Martyn & Marie Davey Joy Davies Jean & Peter Davis Rachel & James Dawson Sarah Dearing Sarah Dodd Rachel & David Duffin Arlette & Paul Drury Caroline & Antony Feltham-King Roseanna Feltham-King Kathy Fowler Shelley Frape Christine Gardner Roz Gearon Dave Gover Allan & Clare Gregory Lois Gravely Mandy Hammerton Kate & Richard Harfield Doreen Hayes Barbara Heffer Margaret Heffer Ann & Alan Heppell Brenda Holman

Ann & David Hook Sue Hornzee Helen & Peter Howes Jill Ingledow Matt Isaac Wayne Isaac Arielle Jack Michael Jack Fenella Jarvis Adrian Jones Rachel Jones Babs Klampe Christine & Gordon Lockhart Jim & Sheila McAulay Kirstin McAulay Angela McCullagh Ian Maw Jo & Tony May Joanne & Luke Meharg Angela Merridale Heidi Milne Tony & Val Mundy Dan Myers Keith Myers Robin Penfold John & Margaret Pickett Charlotte & Peter Pilavachi Kirsty Plant Maureen Pond Barbara Pratt

Jen Pringle Jill Purkiss David Ralph Gil & Sally Ratcliffe John & Helen Revans Norma & Steve Riddle Kate Rolfe Hugh & Lindsey Sach John & Paddy Scott Jon & Tessa Senior David Simpkin Clare Smith Emily Smith Maggie & Mark Smith Ali & David Stanbrook Don Stewart Frank Sturge Janet Sparkes Jean & Ron Sweetenham Toby Sylvester Paul & Liz Tipple Cliff Turner James Turner Gwen Valentine Jo & Tom Vaux Myrna White Adrian & Bridget Whyte Cherie Williamson Charlie Wills Di Wills

Name: Chris Aslet

Name: Jean Sweetenham

Name: Kate Harfield

Age: 52

Age: 72

Age: 38

Occupation: Retail Operative

Occupation: Retired

Occupation: Care Manager

How long have you been a part of Winbap? Since 1993

How long have you been a part of Winbap? 9 years

Volunteer Role: Duty Person COGS helper CAP Money Coach

Volunteer Role: Mainly with older folk: Home and Retirement Home Visiting. Silver Service/Silver Seekers. Welcome on the door.

Volunteer Role: Crèche Rota Communion Rota

What do you get from it? I love people and I’m fortunate to be healthy. Many older folk are not. To share friendship and hopefully to help folk feel a little less lonely and together.

What do you get from it? Fellowship.

Why volunteer? To be able to serve the church community. The children are now older and less demanding! ... also, because someone asked me! What do you get from it? To be part of the church community, to help others and get to know others better. Favourite Winbap moment? Being able to see my own children develop spiritually, often due to others volunteering to lead and hlep in the children/youth work. 23

Favourite Winbap Moment? Holiday at Home for the older folk.

Why volunteer? To feel more involved with church.

Advice for anyone thinking of volunteering? Just do it...you will enjoy it. Favourite Winbap moment? Just seeing all the children grow up so quickly. Funny Moments? Lots of moments and they’re all enjoyable!

Name: Angela Merridale Do you like to learn more about God, eat, chat with friends, eat, pray, eat, support each other,and of course eat? If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yes to some or all of these, why not join us on a Wednesday evening for our small but very friendly Small Group. We meet at the home of Jon and Tessa Senior who live in Bishopstoke and our leader is Chris Aslet. We also have regular meals in the afternoon/early evening so that all our younger members can join in.

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If you are want to find out more, please speak to Chris or Jane Aslet.

Honour Cluster are looking for any good quality donations for a sales table on their country themedannual Holiday At Home which is being held over two days, the 29th and 30th of May. If you or anyone you know might like to come please contact Hannah by phoning 01962 868770.

Age: 64 Occupation: Retired How long have you been a part of Winbap? 15 years Volunteer Role: CAP money coach Why volunteer? To help people manage their money better, to get alongside and support those in debt and through that to show something of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love. What do you get from it? The joy of seeing anxiety lifted from those as they find their finances under control and the privilege of standing alongside those who are working their way out of debt.

et me tell you about a new TV series. It follows this amazing man who knows that he has super powers. These powers are given to him by his father, who we never see. He uses his powers to heal sick people, feed the hungry and give life to the dead. People are a bit freaked out by everything that he is doing, and they try to oppress him.

Picture yourself back in those times. You hear about this man who is performing miracles and attracting large crowds. You hear that people are following him, and calling themselves his disciples. You are intrigued, and so you take a journey to where this man is. You hear him speak to the crowds. You see him cure a leper. How do you feel?

What would you call this man? Would you call him a freak? Would you call him a superhero? Or would you call him Jesus? The miracles that Jesus performed would shock people today. But imagine the reaction of people 2000 years ago. They didn’t have comics and TV depicting superheroes and miracles. This was completely unheard-of and unthought-of. The superheroes we see on TV and in films today are miracle workers, crusaders for good, mysterious and enigmatic. Remind you of anyone?

• • • •

Awestruck? Scared? Overwhelmed? All of the above!

You don’t know that this man is the son of God. You only have his word for it, the word of the people who follow him, and the evidence of his miracles. You wonder if his miracles are some kind of elaborate trick, but you can’t work out how he has managed to trick so many people. You hear people talking about his followers being brainwashed. You know that this man has friends in high places, but you also know he has many enemies. You’ve heard that he talks to prostitutes and tax collectors. You know that he and

his followers are persecuted by Jews and Romans. What do you do? Would you follow him, or would you walk away, and try and forget what your eyes had seen and your ears had heard? Being a Christian in England in the 21st century is easy. Sure, there are problems to overcome. People at work or school might not understand, and some might go as far as to call you names, or behave in unwelcome ways towards you. You might be told that it’s “not cool” to be a Christian. Your boss may not understand why you can’t work a shift on a Sunday. But think of how hard it is to be a Christian in certain countries, even today. You can still be tortured or killed for your faith if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time. There are countries where Christians have to live in hiding, or they have to flee their homes because of what they believe.

They could take the easy way out, renounce their faith and save themselves hardship, and sometimes save their own life. But they don’t.

REJOICING IN THE DARKNESS

The Vatican announced in a recent study that 75 of every 100 people killed due to religious hatred were Christian. There is a reason that if you look up hero in the Thesaurus, it gives you (among other definitions) Christian, Saint and Good Samaritan. These Christians in persecuted countries like Libya, Romania and Syria are true heroes, standing up for what they believe in, even if it means their own death. Ask yourself, if you found yourself in a situation like that, what would you do? This is why the work of charities like Release International (www. releaseinternational.org), Open Doors (www.opendoorsusa. org) and International Christian Concern (www.persecution.org). These organisations not only help Christians being persecuted, they help to raise awareness, and offer daily prayer requests for anyone who feels the need to pray, but doesn’t know where to start. So the next time you feel victimised at work, or at school, I’d like you to think of two things. Firstly, how lucky you are to be in England, and to just have a bit of trouble with your boss or a bully, instead of being tortured or killed. And secondly, of Luke 6:22 When people hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and write you oﬀ as evil on account of the Son of Man, you are blessed. (The Voice) Abi Bettle

POWER IN THE DARKNESS

An evangelist in Aweil said to me we are living in the darkness. By that he meant there was no electricity, no TV, no running water and in many villages no schools or medical clinics. We are starting from ground zero he said. Yet as I travelled around Northern Bahr el Gazhl with Bishop Abraham Nhial crowds and crowds came singing and dancing to hear him speak. At one place in Jorbioch over 2000 people came to worship and meet the bishop. The gospel had only reached this area in 1995 and there were already nine churches. On one single day I saw the bishop confirm 570 people. I was told that in the Darfur region many Muslims are coming to faith in Christ. Yet life is not all rejoicing. While I was travelling with the bishop three times the Northern troops with heavily armed Arab Misseriya attacked the people in Abyei which is in South Sudan and the United Nations peace keepers did nothing to stop them. *Excerpts taken from the newsletter from Ian Thompson’s Bringing Good News. You can read more at http://www. bringinggoodnews.org/

This man was a powerful witch doctor in the region of Mamier, Northern Bahr el Gazahl and everyone was afraid of him. During the long war with the Khartoum government he watched the Arab troops from the north burn down the church in Mamier three times. He then watched the women of the village rebuild the church 3 times and he realised that compared to the women he had no power. Compared to the power of these ladies he had nothing. He turned away from witch craft and joined the church. Many others followed him. It is very easy to portray the positive side of my trip but many many people are suffering especially in the Nuba Mts. Each of the students told me about the extreme suffering of their people. Every day they receive bombardment from the Antinov bombers. Civilians and innocent children are killed every day. There is no food because of the bombing; there is no medicine if you get sick and no education for the children. Thousands are walking to the refugee camps in the South and many die on the way and others die when they reach the camp. I have pictures on my computer of the effect of these Antinov bombers. Dead children cut in half by the bombs, dead bodies without heads and others with horrific injuries. All the students thanked you for their support and one said this, “Please ask your people to take my people as their people and help them” 26

Name: Andrew Breakwell Age: 17 Occupation: Student How long have you been a part of Winbap? 17 years Volunteer Role: Steward Why volunteer? To serve the Church.

Name: Christine Lockhart Age: 47 Occupation: Homemaker How long have you been a part of Winbap? 13 years Volunteer Role: Communion rota co-ordinator and helper COGS assistant (Sparklers)

What do you get from it? Paper cuts, lots of smiles (is that too cheesy!!!) and meet everyone in the church.

Why volunteer? i was asked to help on the communion rota and then asked to co-ordinate when the previous co-ordinator left.

Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? (Wear gloves to prevent paper cuts.) itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great fun and no effort needs to be put in just a warm smile.

I chose to help with the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work as helpers were needed but also I felt that it was a way I could interact with the children and support our families.

Funny Moment? Church weekends away, especially the informal concert!!

Favourite Winbap moment? Kate Rolfe praying for someone in an ambulance only to realise it was a Tesco delivery van instead.

Name: Gordon Lockhart Age: 58 Occupation: Chartered Engineer How long have you been a part of Winbap? 30+ years plus several as a child in the Sunday School. Volunteer Role: Duty Deacon, Bible Reading, COGS helper, Communion. Have done House Group Leader, Youth Leader, Elder, COGS Teacher, Fabric and Door to Door work. Why volunteer? Being part of a family. What do you get from it? I enjoy getting to know the kids and feeling that I am a part of them feeling at home in church. Favourite Winbap Moment? How does one start? Doing the New Zealand Maori Dance.... Being involved with the kids.

Name: Paul Tipple

Name: Kirsty Plant

Name: Ben Clifton

Age: 82

Occupation: Business Analyst (IT)

Age: 34

Occupation: Happily Retired! Previously in Primary Education for 37 years (after National Service), the last 18 as a headteacher. How long have you been a part of Winbap? Since March 1937! Volunteer Role: In our choir since I was 17 & choirmaster 1962 to 1965. Helped to set up Keystone in 1988 and then the Nightshelter in 1989. Served as a director on Keystone for 17 years. Volunteer driver for WRVS & for Countess Mountbatten Hospice for the last 25 years. Neighbourhood Watch coordinator for our area since about 1998. Cathedral scribe since 1989 & served on CTW on executive for about 40 years & treasurer for 30 years. Why volunteer? Paul’s letter to Timothy paraphrased “Faith without action is useless”!

How long have you been a part of Winbap? 8-9 years Volunteer Role: COGS (Trailblazer Teacher) Sound desk Fresh Driver Why volunteer? I saw a need for sound desk helpers and knew it wouldn’t interfere with worshipping. The children were younger and there weren’t (and still aren’t) enough helpers. What do you get from it? Seeing the children grow with God and a sense of satisfied exhaustion on Sunday afternoon and an understanding of God through the eyes of a child. Funny Moment? When asking the kids if they could think of any children in the Bible, a young voice replied “Oh yeah, that kid who was born in the stable”.

Occupation: Senior Engineer, HCC How long have you been a part of Winbap? 10 years Volunteer Role: Coffee Rota COGS Helper Cluster leader Why volunteer? The coffee rota came with being a part of house group - but I do enjoy it! Having two young children I see COGS as a really important part of the church and wanted to help. What do you get from it? I enjoy getting to know the kids and feeling that I am a part of them feeling at home in church. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? If you’re not sure what to volunteer for, just sign up for a taster or two - you’ll soon get in the swing of things.

HERO When the house fell asleep, there was always a light And it fell from the page to the eyes of an American boy Are there any of us who began life so prosaic that we never yearned as a child for heroism? I believe God built it in us. It’s the desire to worship, and it’s the desire for nobility, and it’s the desire to be part of something transcendent.

In a storybook land, I could dream what I read When it went to my head, I’d see: I wanna be a hero! But the practical side said the question was still When you grow up, what will you be? I wanna be a hero!

I’ve asked myself why we create superheroes. There are some answers that float naturally on the surface: they make us feel uplifted. They provide an archetype. They assure us that good will win out, that somehow right will unite with might, and drive out evil. They speak to us of something greater than ourselves that sweeps in to save the day, and they call us to emulate that in some small way. The swimming layer is more complex: the superhero might be you. You could receive a call that sets you apart for a grand task, granting you secret information and license, endowing you with new powers, maybe revealing a secret birthright or latency to be brought to fruition. It speaks to the burning in our hearts that says, “I could be better than what I am now. I was born for more than this!” The undertow is more subtle. When we create a superhero – for a novel, a movie, a primitive religion – what we have made is, 29

technically, an idol. Strip away the Old Testament abhorrence for the word “idol” (and your fear that this column is about to take a far-right turn and forbid you fiction) and look at it in its barest form. An idol is something made by a human hand and then invested with a set of imaginary properties determined by its maker. This perfectly describes a novel character, a movie protagonist, or, for that matter, pop stardom (just because you can sing does not make you the font of all knowledge!). The most salient feature of an idol is that it is actually controlled by its maker. The maker determines its features, its functions, its lore. Fool enough people into believing that the block of wood or metal contains a spirit, and you can start to control those people through your control of the idol. An even greater fool invites an actual spirit to inhabit the idol (or creates the idol at a spirit’s request) and that’s where things get weird. But always it comes back to control. If you worship a demon, you fall under its control, though it has no legitimate claim on you. If you worship what you create, you are worshiping something of your own determination – your own ideas. You are, in fact, worshiping yourself. Believe your own hype, though, and you wind up worshiping nothing but an object: a person enslaved by your own invention. None of these ends satisfy the drive to behold and adore the divine. That’s probably why God forbade us to go down any of those dead-end roads. He is Truth, and He will have nothing but truth for us, for nothing else will satisfy both His rights as supreme being and our needs as driven worshippers.

You can’t look up to a sculpture for its fine intelligence or morals, and it can’t manipulate circumstances on your behalf. You can’t look up to a demon who is using you for its own ends; and it isn’t interested in manipulating anything for anyone but itself. But oh, we like to look up to ourselves. We like to think we have the power to enforce our will on the world. And God has given us enough rope, but also enough warning, for us to see how that plays out, pun intended. I am mystified at people who idolize deceased artisans. In 1994, Nirvana’s front man Kurt Cobain committed suicide, and out came the t-shirts with his portrait and dates. Promoting his talent and mourning him as a human being is one thing. But putting him on a pedestal of worship is something else. Why should we look to Saint Kurt? He did not hold any answers. In fact, he had so few clues about life that he took his own. What could he possibly teach us, that we should revere him so? Growing older you’ll find that illusions are bought And the idol you thought you’d be was just another zero I wanna be a hero!

Many of us in the church were rocked by the fraud of Mike Gugliemucci, a talented and anointed singer/songwriter who lied about having cancer in 2006. His ability to look leukaemia in the face and sing that he believed God was His healer, raised him to icon status in the church. Seeing him tumble off his pedestal and revert to being a confused and complicated human being like the rest of us, was devastating. Did it mean we had chosen the wrong hero? Are they all the wrong heroes? Did it mean it was wrong to have heroes? Does God take them down a ‘notch’ if they get too big for their boots? Or is the size of their boots the problem - that we’re bound to trip over them sooner or later? A quick stroll through the Bible shows us that we could have seen it coming. Noah saved a skerrick of humanity from a global catastrophe, and then became an alcoholic. Gideon rescued Israel from the powerful Midianites, and then took up idolatry. Samson was given superhuman strength and a noble quest but ended his life committing genocide as a blind slave. David was said

to be “after God’s own heart”, but deviated enough from the heart of God to engage in doubt, adultery, poor parenting, insecurity, and vindictiveness. Judas had grand dreams of being the Messiah’s right-hand man as He overthrew the Roman oppressors. But his plan to force Jesus to prematurely declare Himself backfired ... mostly because Jesus was not an idol, to be controlled and agenda’d by one of us. So far, I’m inclining toward the “boots are too big for us” theory. Jesus told His disciples to watch out for people who maintained a deliberately heroic persona, but whose lives and heart did not match up with their public image. Both Mark and Luke remember Him saying that such hypocrisy would be severely punished, and that it was connected with their indifference to the plight of the disadvantaged. Matthew recounts Him thus: “Do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach … everything they do is done for people to see ... But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi’, for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers … For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Mother Teresa comes to mind – a woman who spent her life serving beggars, and became a household name because of it. Heroes died when the squealers bought ‘em oﬀ Died, when the dealers got ‘em oﬀ Welcome to the “in it for the money as an idol” show When they ain’t as big as life, when they ditch their second wife Where’s the boy to go? Gotta be a hero!

It’s a nice-boy notion that the real world’s gonna destroy You know it’s a Marvel-comic-book, Saturday-matinée fairytale, boy It makes me nervous when I realise how much, as a local school chaplain, I “like to be greeted in the marketplace” by my students and their parents. It’s not that I make myself out to be better than I am – it’s that my job title itself does that for me. So I have to take opportunities to confess my own frailties. I have to do the best I can (as hopefully we all do) to pull my life up close to the ideals I espouse. This isn’t always easy. I ask the kids to make allowances for new arrivals. Do I extend thatsame grace to drivers who have come to our roads from places where traffic courtesy leaves you at a standstill all day, and cars are cheap to replace if you do clip someone? I encourage my students to look to the longterm results of their actions. Am I thinking about that when I go all diva about something going missing from my office? And over and above all that, I must never get confused into thinking my B- performance is a better thing to present to God than the A+ He won for me at Calvary. No. The B- is just a thank-you present. On days when it looks more like an F, I’ll need you to “bear with the failings of the weak” as I lean on His grace to fill the gaps in me that I cannot. When the house fell asleep, from a book I was led To a Light that I never knew: “I wanna be your hero!” And He spoke to my heart from the moment I prayed, “Here’s a pattern I made for you: I wanna be your hero.” 30

Humanity will go on demanding, “Make us a king!” and “Show me the money!”. But we must never believe the hype of human hubris. Our hero is Jesus Christ, and He is all the might, goodness, nobility, power, justice, inspiring example and self-sacrifice we need. He is the Once And Future King, the righter of wrongs, the pure one, the awesome power from beyond the world, yet also the low born youngster raised in obscurity to rise up and claim a royal birthright. He is the one who gave His life to rescue the enemies He loved. He is the one who reclaimed His life force to lead us in triumphal procession. And He calls us all to be endued with power from on high, but reminds us that we have but one Teacher,and we are all brothers. Hold your heroes lightly, and with a forgiving heart, for they are but breathing dust.

“

Rebekah Robinson

Courage is the most important of all the virtues, because without courage you can't practice any other virtue consistently. You can practice any virtue erratically, but nothing consistently without courage.

MARY ANGELOU

Name: Annabel Hastie Name: James Dawson

Age: 29

Age: *grin* 21

Occupation: Architect

Occupation: Barrister How long have you been a part of Winbap? 4 years Volunteer Role: Church Secretary Duty Person Why volunteer? To play a part in the Kingdom of God. What do you get from it? Fascination, insight and job satisfaction. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? The Kingdom comes through people laying their lives down. If not you, then who? Favourite Winbap moment? The Church Weekend Away.

How long have you been a part of Winbap? Almost 3 years. Volunteer Role: Street Pastor Evening helper at Winchester Nightshelter Why volunteer? I wanted to help out those less fortunate than myself and be there for anyone needing help. I felt that both just touched my heart and are what I was called to do. What do you get from it? Making a difference in people’s lives and giving people someone to talk to. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Do it! Favourite Winbap moment? The ‘it should have been me’ production at the weekend away in 2011.

Name: Red Leader

Name: Janet Sparkes

Age: Over 70

Age: 67 years 5 months

Occupation: Retired

Occupation: Retired University Lecturer

How long have you been a part of Winbap? Since 1967

How long have you been a part of Winbap? 34 years

Volunteer Role: Welcome on the door Real Life cluster leader

Volunteer Role: Sunday morning transport Silver Service transport Honour Cluster volunteer Visiting Seniors Shared leading of small group Coffee Rota

What do you get from it? I can be cheeky to the congregation. Why volunteer? It’s an opportunity to meet and get to know people. Advice for anyone thinking of volunteering? Just be yourself. Favourite Winbap Moment? Fifteen minute sermon. Funny moments? Too many to list!

Why volunteer? It was a natural thing to do! I enjoy ‘giving back’, having received so much. Serving is so often a privilege and humbling, and realised what visiting meant to my parents. What do you get from it? Pleasure and fun. Favourite Winbap moment? Over 34 years... you’re joking!!!

Name: Arlette Drury Age: 74 Occupation: Retired translator (still active though...) How long have you been a part of Winbap? 3 years Volunteer Role: Helper with the Senior Citizen Services. Pianist in the Worship Band Why volunteer? “Ministry” is in my blood. What do you get from it? Great joy- loving friendships with the old people and the members of the team. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Give the priority to the service of the Lord. He is going to do amazing things to you and through you.

Name: Clare Smith

Name: Fenella Jarvis

Name: Doreen Hayes

Age: 41

Age: 64

Age: 66

Occupation: Cleaner

Occupation: Part-time Administrator at Hampshire County Council

Occupation: Retired Nurse

How long have you been a part of Winbap? 15 years Volunteer Role: Serving coffee Singing in the Worship Band Looking after the library Why volunteer? To serve the Church family, bring people into a place of worship and offering a service of books and learning. What do you get from it? Loving others and being loved. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Do it! Favourite Winbap moment? Being with my Church family. 33

How long have you been a part of Winbap? Approximately 25 years Volunteer Role: Stand in transport volunteer for Honour Cluster attendees What do you get from it? The people you give lifts to are really, really lovely and appreciative. It is not at all onerous, quite the opposite. I am always delighted to help wherever I can. Advice for anyone thinking of volunteering? Just be yourself. Favourite Winbap Moment? The love and fellowship of Winbap - possibly the ‘Sister Act’ from a previous Church Weekend Away

How long have you been a part of Winbap? 34 years Volunteer Role: Honour Cluster volunteer Why volunteer? I was a nurse in rehabilitation of elderly people, so this is a continuation of what I used to do. What do you get from it? Satisfaction of continuing to work in the community of caring for older people. Advice for anyone thinking of volunteering? One gets satisfaction from working for the Lord. Favourite Winbap moment? Over 34 years, they’re too numerous.

Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do... but how much love we put in that action. Mother Teresa

Name: Richard Harfield Age: 43 Occupation: Logistics Manager How long have you been a part of Winbap? 30+ years Volunteer Role: Communion Rota Ex Friday Club What do you get from it? A lot of fun and satisfaction supporting and sharing with the children. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Just go for it, you receive more than you ever give.

Start by doing whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s necessary; then do whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible. 35

ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI

Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you as by the attitude you bring to life; not so much by what happens to you as by the way your mind looks at what happens. KHALIL GIBRAN

Name: Mari Clifton Age: 34 Occupation: Full time Mum Part time Piano Teacher How long have you been a part of Winbap? 10 years exactly! Volunteer Role: Worship Band - pianist Co-run Parenting course Co-lead Re:Store Group Ex magazine Why volunteer? To serve God, His people and the community and get to know others and build relationships and develop my gifts. What do you get from it? Joy and relationships Advice for anyone thinking of volunteering? Have a go, draw alongside others. Favourite Winbap moment? My first ever Church Weekend Away - so much fun, fellowship and fab teaching.

Name: Toby Occupation: Student How long have you been a part of Winbap? 2 years Volunteer Role: Welcoming people into church Edge coffee rota Why volunteer? I was asked to, but I couldn’t say no. What do you get from it? Happiness, a sense of doing good. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Always smile

Dignity does not consist in possessing honors, but in deserving them.

Name: Nick Allenson Age: Nearer 40 than 30 Occupation: Finance Manager How long have you been a part of Winbap? 4 years Volunteer Role: Projectionist Why volunteer? We were short of projectionists, I was available and I knew it couldn’t be that difficult. What do you get from it? I never thought I’d be part of leading worship (have you every heard me sing!). The projection team are very much part of the worship team on a Sunday. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Just give it a go and you are bound to have fun. Favourite Winbap moment? Baptism service for Edge members. It was a blessing to be part of this important time.

Name: Alan Gregory Age: 29 Occupation: Financial Auditor How long have you been a part of Winbap? 2 1/2 years Volunteer Role: Music Group Music On The Streets Ex Assistant Church Secretary Communion Rota Cooking for Edge Residential Why volunteer? Use the gifts God has given me to lead the congregation closer to God in worship, bringing God’s message through music to the streets of Winchester and create a Holy environment for HOTS. Serving in a practical way. What do you get from it? Close connection to God in worship, greater understanding of the church and an opportunity to serve. 37

Name: Alan and Ann Heppell Age: 66 Occupation: Retired How long have you been a part of Winbap? Since 1988 Volunteer Role: Communion Rota Flower Rota Coffee Rota Stewarding Rota Why volunteer? To serve in our Church. What do you get from it? Joy and sometimes frustration. Any advice to anyone thinking of volunteering? Just go for it!!

“

Let us always meet each other with smile, for the smile is the beginning of love.

mother teresa

Name: Janet Clarke Age: 66 Occupation: Phlebotomist - but only one morning a week, the rest of the time I’m retired! How long have you been a part of Winbap? 30 years Volunteer Role: Steward Cashier Hospital Chaplaincy What do you get from it? It’s what you do! I think I have always stewarded. I was asked to be the cashier, I think because my husband was the church treasurer and I knew what to do. I know that God loves me, so I wanted to take His love to the hospital as a chaplain. Advice for anyone thinking of volunteering? A job well done - I’m just a servant! Favourite Winbap Moment? When baby Jesus was kidnapped from the manger.

There is always the danger that we may just do the work for the sake of the work. This is where the respect and the love and the devotion come in that we do it to God, to Christ, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we try to do it as beautifully as possible. mother teresa

APRIL SUN

MON

TUES

1 7 PM Communion Service

Prayer & Praise Meeting

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Re:store Ladies Group

Re:store AM Communion Ladies Group Service

WED

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

D AT E S F O R Y O U R D I A R Y

THURS

Silver Service

5 12

April

2nd - Prayer and Praise Evening

4th - Easter Silver Service 7th - Evening Communion Service

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

The Edge

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Silver Service

SAT

FRI

Friday Fun

15th - CAP Money course begins 18th - Silver Seekers 21st - Morning Communion Service - Evening Bring and Share (The Power of Testimony)

May 2nd - Silver Service

MAY MON

TUES

WED

THURS

FRI

SAT

Silver Service

Prayer and Re:store PM Communion Ladies Group Praise Meeting 8pm Service

12 19

AM Communion Service

Re:store Ladies Group

“ 39

Prayer Meeting 7-8am Prayer Meeting 7-8am Prayer Meeting 7-8am

Prayer Meeting 7-8am

16th - Silver Seekers 19th - Pentecost Sunday 22nd - Church Meeting 24th - COGS - Mad Hatter’s Tea Party 29th/30th - Holiday at Home

“

SUN

7th - Prayer and Praise Evening

The world’s battlefields have been in the heart chiefly; more heroism has been displayed in the household and the closet, than on the most memorable battlefields in history. HENRY WARD BEECHER

Sunday

What’s on...

10am - Morning service with tea and coffee afterwards Creche - up to 3 years Sparklers - 3 to Yr R All Stars - Yr 1-3 Trailblazers - Yr 4-6 FRESH - Yr 7 upwards 6.30pm - Evening service with tea and coffee afterwards Monday 10am - Re:Store ladies group (creche provided) Helen Revans Tuesday (Small Groups and Clusters meet fortnightly) 2.15pm - Tuesday Afternoon Women’s Fellowship (alternate weeks) Roz Gearon 8pm Prayer and Praise Evening (first Tuesday in the month) 8pm - Teg Down Small Group Jo May 8pm - Location Cluster David & Ann Hook 8pm - Favour Cluster South Winchester Gareth & Catherine Bartlett 8pm - Connect Cluster Ben Clifton & Rachel Dawson 8pm - Vision Cluster Mark & Nicki Beaumont Wednesday (Small Groups and Clusters meet fortnightly) 7-8am - Prayer Meeting in the Tweedley Room 8pm - Chandler Ford Small Group Carol and David Bailey 8pm - Bishopstoke Small Group Chris Aslet Thursday 1.30pm - Silver Service (1st in the month) 7.30pm - The Edge (Year 9 and above) 8pm - Badger Farm Small Group

David & Hannah Strutt Becca Baxter Jean Sweetenham

Friday 9.45am - Real Life Cluster 10am - Friday Fun

Tony Mundy Di Wills

Saturday 2pm - HOTS on the High Street

Eunice Nicholson

Associate Pastor Rev. Tim Williamson tim @ winbap . org.uk Mission to Seniors Hannah and David Strutt hannahanddavid @ winbap . org . uk Children’s Ministry Worker Eli Stewart eli @ winbap . org . uk Associate Youth Worker Becca Baxter becca @ winbap . org . uk Pastoral Worker Eunice Nicholson eunice @ winbap . org . uk Elders Carol Bailey Cliff Turner Paul Bulkeley Sheila McAulay

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Secretary James Dawson churchsec @ winbap . org . uk Assistant Secretary John Pickett assistantsec @ winbap . org . uk Treasurer Peter Howes churchtreas @ winbap . org . uk Bookkeeper Alison Stanbrook bookkeeper @ winbap . org . uk Deacons Wayne Isaac

01962 868770

Mission Joanne Meharg

01962 868770

Winchester Baptist Church Swan Lane Winchester SO23 7AA 01962 868770 office @ winbap . org . uk