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St Philip's Church Newsletter 10.5.24
by Ruth Barry 10 May '24

10 May '24

Dear all, *“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.” John 14:18-19* Jesus said these words to his disciples at the Last Supper when he talks about his death, resurrection and ultimate departure from them. Yesterday was Ascension Day the day we mark that ultimate departure of Jesus from earth. It is a festival that often passes us by because it is one of those which happens mid-week - always fixed to 40 days after Easter Sunday and often overshadowed by the looming festival of Pentecost (50days after Easter Sunday). But these days in between Ascension and Pentecost can be a powerful moment in time. For the disciples it was a time of prayer, fellowship and probably a lot of wresting with not quite understanding what was going on – until the Spirit brought inspiration at Pentecost. And for nearly a decade now the Thy Kingdom Come movement have invited Christians around the world to make these 11 days – Ascension to Pentecost – powerful days of prayer for more people to come to know Jesus – indeed for God’s Kingdom to come! You can find all sorts of resources here <https://www.thykingdomcome.global/about-us> to help you pray at home or be inspired by seeing people from around the world joining in with prayer this year. But as a simple act for these next 10 days why not commit to praying the Lord’s Prayer every day? Maybe when you wake up, or while you have your lunch, perhaps before dinner or as you go to bed. Praying this prayer that Jesus taught us particularly noticing that second phrase – Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. *Your kingdom* *come…* This prayer seeks Jesus’ return to establish God’s kingdom here on earth but it is also a prayer to see the life-giving power of God present in our world now – today. That life giving power of God which raised Jesus from the dead and which is available to all of us as we choose to invite God into our lives. “Because I live” Jesus says “you also will live”! I pray over these next 10 days you will experience more of the power of the life-giving Jesus in your own heart and also in the lives of all those for whom you are praying. *News and Upcoming Events* *Wednesday 15th May – 10.30-12noon - Drop-in NHS Hearing Aid Maintenance and Battery Collection Session *During our regular Wednesday Warm Spaces Cambridgeshire Deaf Association are organising a drop in session where you can get hearing aids cleaned and collect more batteries – and have a cup of tea while you’re there! *Sunday 12th May - 4.30-6.00pm - Frida Violeta Band* This is a vibrant all-women ensemble that has been bringing Latin American folk music to the UK since 2018. They will be performing at St Philip’s Church and say “Join us with your family and friends to immerse yourselves in the depths and joys of Latin American rhythms! https://fridavioletaband.weebly.com/ for tickets (£8/£13) *Tuesday 21st May – 2.00-7.00pm - East West Rail Community Conversation taking place at St Philip’s Church *East West Rail is a new rail link connecting people and businesses in the communities between Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge. They are hosting a series of community conversations explaining how and when individuals can get involved in the consultation process, so that communities are well informed before the launch of the first stage of statutory consultation in the summer. Find out more at https://eastwestrail.co.uk/news/latest-stories/community-conversation-events *Mental Health First Aid Course - 1, 9, 13, 15th May - 9am-12.30pm on zoom* –MHFA England are running a course open to all who would like to become a Mental Health First Aider – to gain the knowledge and skills to spot signs of people experiencing poor mental health, be confident to start a conversation and signpost a person to appropriate support. There is a cost for this course and you will need to attend all sessions but if you are interested come and chat to me and I can let you have the details. *Growing as a Disciple Course* – this is an online course regularly run by Ely Diocese it is a ten session course about deepening your personal faith, and raising your awareness of how God might be calling you to contribute your abilities and time to your churches and communities. Mondays at 7pm, via Zoom - 13 & 20 May, 3, 10, 17 & 24 June, 1, 8, 15 & 22 July. For more info: julie.norris(a)elydiocese.org or book online: https://elydatabase.org/events/mission_ministry *Toilet Refurbishment* the PCC have commissioned a refurbishment of all the toilets in the church which will begin next week. They will be completed in stages so we wont lose all our facilities at once – do not worry! But please do be aware that there may be some disruption when you come into church and please bear with us while this much needed work is done. *Thursday Small Group* – will now be meeting at 7.15pm-8.45pm *Eco-Bite – our new green “nugget” each week: * Would you like to join a community of Christians who care about creation? Have a look at https://greenchristian.org.uk/ They describe themselves as “a community of ordinary Christians from all backgrounds and traditions. Inspired by our faith, we work to care for creation. We do this through prayer, living simply, public witness, campaigning and mutual encouragement. We walk alongside those of faith and no faith. Join us.” *Last Week’s sermon* Last week’s sermon if you want to catch up: sermon 5.5.24.mp3 <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/2024-05-05%20-%20Ruth%20-%20c.mp3> The link to our sermon archive: St Philip's sermon archive <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/> *This Sunday 12th May – Sunday after Ascension Day* *10.30am – Holy Communion with Explorers *This Sunday Colin will be talking us through Jesus’ Ascension – what does this slightly bizarre event mean for us today? Our readings will be Ephesians 1:15-23 & Luke 24:44-53 If you can't attend church in person you can always use this Zoom link: meeting ID: 976 3739 9129 and Passcode: 330714 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/97637399129?pwd=TGhKWWxOcWF1S242aVhrWDlJdUkxZz09 *Prayers * If any of you have specific prayers you would like us to include in this newsletter do please get in touch. *Tracee & Lee* – Tracee is back home and now recovering well. Please pray this continues! *Please also pray for our Mission Partner this month:* *CPAS* – Making Mission Possible CPAS is an Anglican evangelical mission agency, who believe that the message of the gospel is relevant to all people, and that effective local church ministry is the key to seeing men, women, young people and children come to faith in Christ. *Regular Weekly events to join:* *Friday 12noon Lunchtime Bible Club *A relaxed look at the bible passage/s for the upcoming Sunday. Bring along a packed lunch and explore scripture whilst eating lunch together. *Wednesday 12noon Reflective Holy Communion* A quiet time to help find space and peace in the middle of the week. *Monday & Friday 8.30pm – Compline on zoom * Meeting ID: 836 5965 9953 Passcode: 749968 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83659659953?pwd=btP5AjGMu1s-dE_2W9T0MMFqnnPKSS.1 *Wednesday 10.30-12noon & Friday 1.30-3.00 –* Wednesday & Friday Friends *Both are “Warm Spaces” with Tea/coffee, cake/biscuits and chat * Just turn up if you’d like to join us for a cuppa/read the paper/do some of the jigsaw/knit/colour/sit quietly watching the world go by. *Wednesdays 7.00-7.30pm - Weekly Prayers on zoom*: - Meeting ID: 852 1105 2733 Password: 397987 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85211052733?pwd=OE52bm9NS1RtQVQ0ZytTc0xBZnVsUT09 *Saturdays 8.15am - Morning Bible Discussion and Prayer on zoom*: Meeting ID: 143 338 655 Password: 824271 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/143338655?pwd=L1JJTFZJNU9EaFZjaUFjQzVlalpMZz09 With love and prayers Ruth Need to unsubscribe? Email Bekki: bekki(a)theclarks.biz Blessings Ruth *Revd Ruth Barry* *Vicar, St Philip's Church, Cambridge* 185 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 3AN 01223 318315 vicar(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk *My day off is Tuesday*

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St Philip's Church newsletter 3.5.24
by Ruth Barry 03 May '24

03 May '24

Dear all, Happy St Philip’s Day! Well, it was St Philip & St James’ saints’ day on Wednesday so we are belatedly celebrating our patron saint this Sunday. A wonderful reason to celebrate our church, who we are and all that we do. Presuming that “our” St Philip was Philip the Apostle (which is a big presumption - come on Sunday to find out more on that!) then I’ve found it really interesting that, although we don’t hear a lot about Philip the disciple, in two of those moments in which he is identified he seems to be important as a connector or a bridge between Jesus and others. We first hear of him when he goes and finds Nathaniel to bring him to Jesus and then later we hear Philip helps the Greeks from his home town of Bethsaida when they want to meet with Jesus. We’ll talk more about that on Sunday and exploring how he might be a role model for us. But I wanted to leave you with a thought this week about how we act as connectors or bridges between God and others. Not necessarily in a traditional missionary way of telling people about Jesus but in the way in which we allow our relationship with God to extend beyond ourselves. Perhaps through simply being known as the person in the office to go to if someone needs to talk or needs someone to trust. To be the neighbour who is known to faithfully notice and help out when someone else is in need. To be the one who says I can’t answer your questions about Jesus but why don’t you come with me and chat to…(whoever you think might have an answer!!). If people know we are Christians our very lifestyle, life choices and actions can provide connections and bridges for others to connect with God for themselves. Are there places in your life where you see yourself in this bridge role – perhaps you hadn’t realised or seen it as such till today? Are there places you would like to make that connection a more obvious one? *“Now there were some Greeks among those who went up to worship at the festival. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, with a request. “Sir,” they said, “we would like to see Jesus.” Philip went to tell Andrew; Andrew and Philip in turn told Jesus.” John 12:20-22* *News and Upcoming Events* *Sunday 5th May - St Philip’s Day Picnic *– After our celebratory service we will be having a picnic in the Vicarage garden. Bring a picnic and a rug or chair – and pray for good weather! (We will be in church if the weather is like today and absolutely atrocious!) *Sunday 5th May – 11am-12noon - plant swap at St Barnabas. *People are invited to come to St Barnabas and take plants in exchange for a swap, or a donation. *Sunday evenings at St Paul’s – 6pm - Inclusive Theology talks - *An opportunity to look at things differently. 12th May *Black Theology*, Revd Dr Carlton Turner – 19th May *Trauma Theology*, Dr Karen O’Donnell – 26th May* Disability Theology*, Dr Rachel Holdforth – 2nd June *Feminist Theology*, Hannah Fytche *Weeding around the church* – a huge thank you to the team who tackled the weeds this week – your hard work is so appreciated. *Mental Health First Aid Course - 1, 9, 13, 15th May - 9am-12.30pm on zoom* –MHFA England are running a course open to all who would like to become a Mental Health First Aider – to gain the knowledge and skills to spot signs of people experiencing poor mental health, be confident to start a conversation and signpost a person to appropriate support. There is a cost for this course and you will need to attend all sessions but if you are interested come and chat to me and I can let you have the details. *Growing as a Disciple Course* – this is an online course regularly run by Ely Diocese it is a ten session course about deepening your personal faith, and raising your awareness of how God might be calling you to contribute your abilities and time to your churches and communities. Mondays at 7pm, via Zoom - 13 & 20 May, 3, 10, 17 & 24 June, 1, 8, 15 & 22 July. For more info: julie.norris(a)elydiocese.org or book online: https://elydatabase.org/events/mission_ministry *Toilet Refurbishment* the PCC have commissioned a refurbishment of all the toilets in the church which will begin next week. They will be completed in stages so we wont lose all our facilities at once – do not worry! But please do be aware that there may be some disruption when you come into church and please bear with us while this much needed work is done. *Thursday Small Group* – will now be meeting in the church Prayer Room at 7.15pm-8.45pm *Eco-Bite – our new green “nugget” each week: * Join a plant swap or go and see what you can pick up to grow yourself at home. *11am-12noon this Sunday 5th May - *people are invited to come to St Barnabas and take plants in exchange for a swap, or a donation. *Last Week’s sermon* Last week’s sermon if you want to catch up: sermon 28.4.24.mp3 <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/2024-04-28%20-%20Michael%20-%20c.mp3> The link to our sermon archive: St Philip's sermon archive <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/> *This Sunday 5th May – Easter 6* *8.30am – Reflective Holy Communion *Acts 10:44-end & John 14:1-14 *10.30am – All Age Worship *Celebrating St Philip’s Church and learning about St Philip! If you can't attend church in person you can always use this Zoom link: meeting ID: 976 3739 9129 and Passcode: 330714 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/97637399129?pwd=TGhKWWxOcWF1S242aVhrWDlJdUkxZz09 *Prayers * If any of you have specific prayers you would like us to include in this newsletter do please get in touch. *Judi Griffiths *– Judi’s operation went ahead this week and praise God she is home and recovering well. Please continue to pray for her recovery. *Tracee & Lee* – Unfortunately this week Tracee was rushed back into hospital for emergency surgery which she very nearly didn’t make it through. Praise God she is still alive and recovering! Please pray for God to hold both Tracee & Lee in such a difficult time as they concentrate on Tracee’s recovery and come to terms with the fear they were living with this week. *Ben Hodson* – the newly appointed Headteacher at St Philip’s School. Praise God for this answer to prayer and please pray for Ben as he prepares to join the school in September. *Please also pray for our Mission Partner this month:* *CPAS* – Making Mission Possible CPAS is an Anglican evangelical mission agency, who believe that the message of the gospel is relevant to all people, and that effective local church ministry is the key to seeing men, women, young people and children come to faith in Christ. *Regular Weekly events to join:* *Friday 12noon Lunchtime Bible Club *A relaxed look at the bible passage/s for the upcoming Sunday. Bring along a packed lunch and explore scripture whilst eating lunch together. *Wednesday 12noon Reflective Holy Communion* A quiet time to help find space and peace in the middle of the week. *Monday & Friday 8.30pm – Compline on zoom * Meeting ID: 836 5965 9953 Passcode: 749968 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83659659953?pwd=btP5AjGMu1s-dE_2W9T0MMFqnnPKSS.1 *Wednesday 10.30-12noon & Friday 1.30-3.00 –* Wednesday & Friday Friends *Both are “Warm Spaces” with Tea/coffee, cake/biscuits and chat * Just turn up if you’d like to join us for a cuppa/read the paper/do some of the jigsaw/knit/colour/sit quietly watching the world go by. *Wednesdays 7.00-7.30pm - Weekly Prayers on zoom*: - Meeting ID: 852 1105 2733 Password: 397987 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85211052733?pwd=OE52bm9NS1RtQVQ0ZytTc0xBZnVsUT09 *Saturdays 8.15am - Morning Bible Discussion and Prayer on zoom*: Meeting ID: 143 338 655 Password: 824271 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/143338655?pwd=L1JJTFZJNU9EaFZjaUFjQzVlalpMZz09 With love and prayers Ruth Need to unsubscribe? Email Bekki: bekki(a)theclarks.biz *Revd Ruth Barry* *Vicar, St Philip's Church, Cambridge* 185 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 3AN 01223 318315 vicar(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk *My day off is Tuesday*

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St Philip's Church newsletter 26.4.24
by Ruth Barry 26 Apr '24

26 Apr '24

Dear all, The sun is out! But my goodness the wind is still so bitterly cold… April is one of those months that takes me by surprise every year. I am lulled by the spring flowers, lighter days and more sunshine into thinking summer is here and yet winter hasn’t quite left - it is a now and not yet season. Which is in fact so appropriate for Easter! Because, since Jesus’ resurrection we live in now and not yet times. Jesus’ resurrection has ushered in God’s kingdom, this new way of living, forgiven, free, at one with God, as God meant for us to be. This is what we celebrate on Easter Day with such joy! And yet we know that this kingdom is not quite here in full – that will happen at those end times when Jesus returns and the whole of creation will be renewed and restored – every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. For now, we live in the in between times, we see glimpses but not in full. So, how do we manage in the now and not yet? Do we just live in frustration? Well, yes, a little. Frustration shows we know what is to come and we long for it to come – “Your Kingdom come” we pray in the Lord’s prayer. Frustration at the not quite yet can be a great motivator. But we also live in hope and expectation that we will see glimpses of this perfect kingdom. We live with our eyes open to God at work, to see the Spirit on the move. To see those places where God’s kingdom, God’s way, is happening here and now on earth. Wherever we see those fruits of the Spirit growing – we see God’s kingdom established. I pray this week you may live those words “Your kingdom come” and that you may have eyes open to see “*love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control*” growing around you and within you. (Galatians 5:22-23) *News and Upcoming Events* *Saturday 27th April* *- 7.30pm – Youth for Christ Open House Commissioning* at The St Andrews Centre in Histon. This is an exciting moment as they share progress on a whole new area of work, and hear from the team who are making it happen. The event starts at 7.30pm at, with drinks reception from 7.00pm. You can book your free place (and find out more information) on their website: http://cambridgeyfc.uk/commissioning . *Sunday 28th April – after church - St Philip’s APCM *the annual meeting of the church at which we report on the activities of the church through the year, report on our finances and most importantly give thanks for our elected representatives who look after the governance of our church for us. You can find copies of the Financial Report in church this Sunday or email Lucy (lucy(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk) *Sunday 5th May - St Philip’s Day Picnic *– an opportunity to celebrate all that is St Philip’s, who we are as a church and what we do. And then after the service to picnic in the Vicarage garden together. Bring a picnic and a rug or chair – and pray for good weather! *Weeding around the church* – if anyone who can spare 1 hr for weed pulling around the church please talk to Anke to find a time. It’s really important that we keep our church looking tidy – not least because it shows the community that we are no derelict building but here and alive and active! *Mental Health First Aid Course - 1, 9, 13, 15th May - 9am-12.30pm on zoom* –MHFA England are running a course open to all who would like to become a Mental Health First Aider – to gain the knowledge and skills to spot signs of people experiencing poor mental health, be confident to start a conversation and signpost a person to appropriate support. There is a cost for this course and you will need to attend all sessions but if you are interested come and chat to me and I can let you have the details. *Growing as a Disciple Course* – this is an online course regularly run by Ely Diocese it is a ten session course about deepening your personal faith, and raising your awareness of how God might be calling you to contribute your abilities and time to your churches and communities. Mondays at 7pm, via Zoom - 13 & 20 May, 3, 10, 17 & 24 June, 1, 8, 15 & 22 July. For more info: julie.norris(a)elydiocese.org or book online: https://elydatabase.org/events/mission_ministry *Toilet Refurbishment* the PCC have commissioned a refurbishment of all the toilets in the church which will begin next week. They will be completed in stages so we wont lose all our facilities at once – do not worry! But please do be aware that there may be some disruption when you come into church and please bear with us while this much needed work is done. *Work on Stan’s House* – as many of you will know Stanley Downing very generously left his house to the church, we are currently discerning very carefully how we can honour his generosity and steward this amazing resource well and there are some exciting options open to us. But the first step is clearing the house and fully assessing the property. So, if you see a skip outside or tradespeople entering the property over the next few months please don’t be alarmed. *Eco-Bite – our new green “nugget” each week: * You can recycle your pens! No more throwing old ones in the bin to fill up landfill take them to any Rymans shop and they will recycle them for you. *Last Week’s sermon* Last week’s sermon if you want to catch up: sermon 21.4.24.mp3 <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/2024-04-21%20-%20Ruth%20-%20c.mp3> The link to our sermon archive: St Philip's sermon archive <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/> *This Sunday 28th April – Easter 5* *10.30am – Holy Communion with Explorers *(for Primary School aged children) this Sunday Mike will be talking us through Acts 8:26-end where we hear about one of the two Philips in the New Testament – more on that next week! If you can't attend church in person you can always use this Zoom link: meeting ID: 976 3739 9129 and Passcode: 330714 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/97637399129?pwd=TGhKWWxOcWF1S242aVhrWDlJdUkxZz09 *Prayers * If any of you have specific prayers you would like us to include in this newsletter do please get in touch. *Judi Griffiths *– Judi’s operation was cancelled at the last minute this week but is re-scheduled for Wednesday 1st May. Please pray for her and Jim as they have to cope with this uncertainty and change, please pray that the operation isn’t cancelled again and that it is a success this time! *Tracee & Lee* – Tracee’s operation went well and she is recovering at home, thanks for your prayers. Please pray for her speedy recouperation and for Lee as he cares for her. *Ben Hodson* – the newly appointed Headteacher at St Philip’s School. Praise God for this answer to prayer and please pray for Ben as he prepares to join the school in September. *Please also pray for our Mission Partner this month:* [image: Supported lodgings for young people in Cambridgeshire]*Romsey Mill* – A local charity creating opportunities with young people, children and families in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Many of you will be very familiar with the work of Romsey Mill – please pray for them this month with all their new initiatives. *Neil Perry (Romsey Mill CEO) will be joining us this Sunday to catch us up with all Romsey Mill’s current initiatives* *Regular Weekly events to join:* *Friday 12noon Lunchtime Bible Club *A relaxed look at the bible passage/s for the upcoming Sunday. Bring along a packed lunch and explore scripture whilst eating lunch together. *Wednesday 12noon Reflective Holy Communion* A quiet time to help find space and peace in the middle of the week. *Monday & Friday 8.30pm – Compline on zoom * Meeting ID: 836 5965 9953 Passcode: 749968 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83659659953?pwd=btP5AjGMu1s-dE_2W9T0MMFqnnPKSS.1 *Wednesday 10.30-12noon & Friday 1.30-3.00 –* Wednesday & Friday Friends *Both are “Warm Spaces” with Tea/coffee, cake/biscuits and chat * Just turn up if you’d like to join us for a cuppa/read the paper/do some of the jigsaw/knit/colour/sit quietly watching the world go by. *Wednesdays 7.00-7.30pm - Weekly Prayers on zoom*: - Meeting ID: 852 1105 2733 Password: 397987 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85211052733?pwd=OE52bm9NS1RtQVQ0ZytTc0xBZnVsUT09 *Saturdays 8.15am - Morning Bible Discussion and Prayer on zoom*: Meeting ID: 143 338 655 Password: 824271 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/143338655?pwd=L1JJTFZJNU9EaFZjaUFjQzVlalpMZz09 With love and prayers Ruth Need to unsubscribe? Email Bekki: bekki(a)theclarks.biz Blessings Ruth *Revd Ruth Barry* *Vicar, St Philip's Church, Cambridge* 185 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 3AN 01223 318315 vicar(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk *My day off is Tuesday*

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St Philip's Church Newsletter 19.4.24
by Ruth Barry 19 Apr '24

19 Apr '24

Dear all, Sheep – this Sunday we will be thinking a lot about sheep. Sheep are mentioned over 200 times in the bible and often in relation to God’s people, us, being compared to them. Israel’s king was often referred to as a shepherd of the people and of course (as we will talk about on Sunday) Jesus called himself the good shepherd come to gather his flock. How do you feel about being likened to a sheep? I’m never quite sure – sheep don’t get a great press – usually thought of as stupid and hopeless at looking after themselves. Is this not quite fair do you think, or is it painfully apt? I wonder? I also wonder if we have lost some of the nuances of the role of sheep and shepherds in our urban life. Go with me on this one (especially if you are a dog lover) but I wonder if cats might be a more accessible reference for us in this part of the world today. Cats are wilfully independent and clever. Affectionate and loving to their owners however they can also be distant and aloof. Cute and cuddly as well as being vicious hunters when they want to be. But regardless of the character of their pet, most cat owners would do anything for their feline family member. The pet food industry and pet accessory industries are huge! Adverts for cat food make them sound like gourmet meals and you can buy cat backpacks to take your furry ball of cuteness on walks with you – and this is not the most bizarre accessory now available. We see the fliers pinned up on lampposts when cats go missing, the neighbourhood social media groups will call everyone to search for the one that has become lost – we understand the desire to search and search – because that one individual cat is special to its owner. We get the love of cats. I wonder if thinking that God loves us like the cat lover loves their cat might be a more helpful analogy, maybe? And let’s be honest the previously mentioned characteristics of cats are strikingly similar to humans – especially in our increasingly individualistic society. It would be an interesting exercise to see how far this updated cultural reference might appeal to people. How this translation of an idea might bring to life some of the teaching Jesus was trying to do using sheep as the analogy. Why don’t you have a go rereading the parable of the lost sheep imagining a lost cat instead? If you have a go let me know how you get on! *[Jesus said] “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me”* *John 10:14* *News and Upcoming Events* *Edge* will be starting again this Sunday 21st April 5.30-7pm at church. I would really love someone to come join us on the team. I lead every fortnight but I could do with an extra helper once a month – which means only 3 sessions and a summer party this term. If you feel you would be able to help please let me know. We have a lovely group of 12 young people who come regularly and they are a joy to spend an evening with so please don’t be shy about coming to join us! *Saturday 27th April* *- 7.30pm – Youth for Christ Open House Commissioning* at The St Andrews Centre in Histon. This is an exciting moment as they share progress on a whole new area of work, and hear from the team who are making it happen. The event starts at 7.30pm at, with drinks reception from 7.00pm. You can book your free place (and find out more information) on their website: http://cambridgeyfc.uk/commissioning . *Sunday 28th April – after church - St Philip’s APCM *the annual meeting of the church at which we report on the activities of the church through the year, report on our finances and most importantly give thanks for our elected representatives who look after the governance of our church for us. You can find copies of the Financial Report in church this Sunday or email Lucy (lucy(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk) *Sunday 5th May - St Philip’s Day Picnic *– an opportunity on our Patronal Festival (that’s a fancy term meaning we are St Philip’s Church so St Philip’s Day is special to us!) to celebrate all that is St Philip’s, who we are as a church and what we do. And then after the service to picnic in the Vicarage garden together. Please do make it a plan to join us that Sunday – and to pray for good weather! *Toilet Refurbishment* the PCC have commissioned a refurbishment of all the toilets in the church which will begin next week. They will be completed in stages so we wont lose all our facilities at once – do not worry! But please do be aware that there may be some disruption when you come into church and please bear with us while this much needed work is done. *Work on Stan’s House* – as many of you will know Stanley Downing very generously left his house to the church, we are currently discerning very carefully how we can honour his generosity and steward this amazing resource well and there are some exciting options open to us. But the first step is clearing the house and fully assessing the property. So, if you see a skip outside or tradespeople entering the property over the next few months please don’t be alarmed. *Mental Health First Aid Course - 1, 9, 13, 15th May - 9am-12.30pm on zoom* –MHFA England are running a course open to all who would like to become a Mental Health First Aider – to gain the knowledge and skills to spot signs of people experiencing poor mental health, be confident to start a conversation and signpost a person to appropriate support. There is a cost for this course and you will need to attend all sessions but if you are interested come and chat to me and I can let you have the details. *Eco-Bite – our new green “nugget” each week: * Let the grass grow under your feet! As daisies, dandelions, buttercups bloom why not leave the mowing for a few days more and allow the pollinators time to enjoy these flowers. *Last Week’s sermon* Last two weeks of sermons if you want to catch up: sermon.14.4.24.mp3 <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/2024-04-14%20-%20Ruth%20-%20c.mp3> The link to our sermon archive: St Philip's sermon archive <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/> *This Sunday 21st April – Easter 4* *8.30am – Reflective Holy Communion* our readings will be Psalm 23 & John 10:11-18 *10.30am – All Age Worship * this Sunday we’ll be thinking about what it means to be gathered into the fold If you can't attend church in person you can always use this Zoom link: meeting ID: 976 3739 9129 and Passcode: 330714 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/97637399129?pwd=TGhKWWxOcWF1S242aVhrWDlJdUkxZz09 *Prayers * If any of you have specific prayers you would like us to include in this newsletter do please get in touch. *Judi Griffiths *– Sadly Judi needs to undergo her pacemaker operation again. Please pray that God will protect, comfort and heal her and Jim as they face this disappointment and worry. *Tracee & Lee* – Tracee is undergoing her operation on 24th April please pray for God to hold her and Lee in peace as the time approaches and for speedy healing afterwards. *Please also pray for our Mission Partner this month:* *Romsey Mill* – A local charity creating opportunities with young people, children and families in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Many of you will be very familiar with the work of Romsey Mill – please pray for them this month with all their new initiatives. *Neil Perry (Romsey Mill CEO) will be joining us this Sunday to catch us up with all Romsey Mill’s current initiatives* *Regular Weekly events to join:* *Friday 12noon Lunchtime Bible Club *A relaxed look at the bible passage/s for the upcoming Sunday. Bring along a packed lunch and explore scripture whilst eating lunch together. *Wednesday 12noon Reflective Holy Communion* A quiet time to help find space and peace in the middle of the week. *Monday & Friday 8.30pm – Compline on zoom * Meeting ID: 836 5965 9953 Passcode: 749968 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83659659953?pwd=btP5AjGMu1s-dE_2W9T0MMFqnnPKSS.1 *Wednesday 10.30-12noon & Friday 1.30-3.00 –* Wednesday & Friday Friends *Both are “Warm Spaces” with Tea/coffee, cake/biscuits and chat * Just turn up if you’d like to join us for a cuppa/read the paper/do some of the jigsaw/knit/colour/sit quietly watching the world go by. *Wednesdays 7.00-7.30pm - Weekly Prayers on zoom*: - Meeting ID: 852 1105 2733 Password: 397987 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85211052733?pwd=OE52bm9NS1RtQVQ0ZytTc0xBZnVsUT09 *Saturdays 8.15am - Morning Bible Discussion and Prayer on zoom*: Meeting ID: 143 338 655 Password: 824271 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/143338655?pwd=L1JJTFZJNU9EaFZjaUFjQzVlalpMZz09 With love and prayers Ruth Need to unsubscribe? Email Bekki: bekki(a)theclarks.biz Blessings Ruth *Revd Ruth Barry* *Vicar, St Philip's Church, Cambridge* 185 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 3AN 01223 318315 vicar(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk *My day off is Tuesday*

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St Philip's church newsletter 12.4.24
by Ruth Barry 12 Apr '24

12 Apr '24

Dear all, He is risen! He is risen indeed, alleluia! The shops may have moved on, school terms are nearly starting with all thoughts turned to summer but we in the church are still celebrating. Easter is a 7 week-long celebration which takes us right up to Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter and on to Pentecost, 50 days after Easter Sunday. In this season we spend longer celebrating Easter than we spent preparing for it – and yet – do we? In the church we will. All our readings will be taking us deeper into understanding the resurrection, we will proclaim the words above and joyfully shout “alleluia!” at many moments in these next few weeks. But what about Monday to Saturday? How Easter-y does that look for you? Does this season feel any different for you once Easter Day is over, or do things go back to the usual way of things? I wonder if there is anything you might do which holds onto this season in the same way that we hold on to seasons such as Advent or Lent? Perhaps you could collect a wildflower everyday to have in a vase on your kitchen table. A reminder of the new life we are celebrating? Perhaps you could listen to an Easter hymn or song everyday to sing praise in response to Jesus’ resurrection – right through to Pentecost? Perhaps you could simply choose to start each day with that affirmation - He is risen! He is risen indeed, alleluia! The blessings of these church seasons are the way they break up the year, they challenge us to do things differently for a while. So whether you’ve been a Jesus loving Christian for 9 days or 90years I invite you to try something different this Easter season - to breathe new life into your faith life. To see how you might connect with Jesus in a new way as we model the lives of the disciples who regularly encountered the risen Jesus over these next 40 days and then powerfully encountered the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. *News and Upcoming Events* ***singing workshop cancelled** *for those of you who signed up for this* - *sadly Ben and Dom are ill and unable to do the workshop and concert that was due to take place tomorrow *A new small group at St P’s – *starting *Thursday 18th April 7-8.30pm at church *will meet for bible study prayer and fellowship. We are beginning with a study on 'meeting the Holy Spirit'. Lucy Sixsmith, Alan Syrop and Polly Macartney look forward to meeting you soon. If you are interested in joining the group, please contact Lucy Sixsmith on Lucy(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk or Alan Syrop on alan(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk / 07720 209139. *Edge* will be starting again Sunday 21st April 5.30-7pm at church. I would really love someone to come join us on the team. I lead every fortnight but I could do with an extra helper once a month – which means only 3 sessions and a summer party this term. If you feel you would be able to help please let me know. We have a lovely group of 12 young people who come regularly and they are a joy to spend an evening with so please don’t be shy about coming to join us! *Saturday 27th April* *- 7.30pm – Youth for Christ Open House Commissioning* at The St Andrews Centre in Histon. This is an exciting moment as they share progress on a whole new area of work, and hear from the team who are making it happen. The event starts at 7.30pm at, with drinks reception from 7.00pm. You can book your free place (and find out more information) on their website: http://cambridgeyfc.uk/commissioning . ***Sunday 28th April – after church - St Philip’s APCM** *this is the annual meeting of the church at which we report on the activities of the church through the year, report on our finances and most importantly give thanks for our elected representatives who look after the governance of our church for us. Our church could not function without the voluntary efforts of your PCC – and they are *your* PCC. Elected by the church to make decisions on behalf of the church. If you would like to be elected to join them or if you know someone who you think would be really great to have on this church council - please talk to them, talk to me. We really want to make the PCC as representative of our whole community as possible and it is always good to add fresh eyes to the group so please don’t be shy about coming forward if you’d like to know more. We are particularly looking for someone who would like to become a Deanery Synod Representative which means someone who will take St Philip’s voice to the wider gathering of CofE churches in the area. And, even if you know this is not for you, please pray for God to be encouraging others to step forward - we are all involved in this governance process directly or indirectly! *Saturday 27th April 10am-4pm Listening for Life Course @All Saints Church Hall Cottenham *A course to learn how to listen well to others, to yourself and to God with effective, reflective listening skills. It will be led by trained tutors – Revd Lynda Davies and Revd Natalie Andrews. For more info or to book on the course: Ely events booking <https://elydatabase.org/events/view?course=3794> *Eco-Bite – our new green “nugget” each week: * Let the grass grow under your feet! As daisies, dandelions, buttercups bloom why not leave the mowing for a few days more and allow the pollinators time to enjoy these flowers. *Last Week’s sermon* Last two weeks of sermons if you want to catch up: EasterDay.mp3 <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/2024-03-31%20-%20Ruth%20-%20c.mp3> & 7.4.2024.mp3 <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/2024-04-07%20-%20Colin%20-%20c.mp3> The link to our sermon archive: St Philip's sermon archive <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/> *This Sunday 14th April – Easter 3* *10.30am – All Age Holy Communion *– our readings will be Luke 24:36-48 & Acts 3:11-21 If you can't attend church in person you can always use this Zoom link: meeting ID: 976 3739 9129 and Passcode: 330714 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/97637399129?pwd=TGhKWWxOcWF1S242aVhrWDlJdUkxZz09 *Prayers * If any of you have specific prayers you would like us to include in this newsletter do please get in touch. *Please also pray for our Mission Partner this month:* *Romsey Mill* – A local charity creating opportunities with young people, children and families in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Many of you will be very familiar with the work of Romsey Mill – please pray for them this month with all their new initiatives. You may well have sponsored Jon as he ran the Cambridge Half-Marathon for them – and Mike Sanders is running the London Marathon for them this year. You might like to pray for his success and for the wise use of the money they have both raised! *Regular Weekly events to join:* *Friday 12noon Lunchtime Bible Club *A relaxed look at the bible passage/s for the upcoming Sunday. Bring along a packed lunch and explore scripture whilst eating lunch together. *Wednesday 12noon Reflective Holy Communion* A quiet time to help find space and peace in the middle of the week. *Monday & Friday 8.30pm – Compline on zoom * Meeting ID: 836 5965 9953 Passcode: 749968 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83659659953?pwd=btP5AjGMu1s-dE_2W9T0MMFqnnPKSS.1 *Wednesday 10.30-12noon & Friday 1.30-3.00 –* Wednesday & Friday Friends *Both are “Warm Spaces” with Tea/coffee, cake/biscuits and chat * Just turn up if you’d like to join us for a cuppa/read the paper/do some of the jigsaw/knit/colour/sit quietly watching the world go by. *Wednesdays 7.00-7.30pm - Weekly Prayers on zoom*: - Meeting ID: 852 1105 2733 Password: 397987 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85211052733?pwd=OE52bm9NS1RtQVQ0ZytTc0xBZnVsUT09 *Saturdays 8.15am - Morning Bible Discussion and Prayer on zoom*: Meeting ID: 143 338 655 Password: 824271 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/143338655?pwd=L1JJTFZJNU9EaFZjaUFjQzVlalpMZz09 With love and prayers Ruth Need to unsubscribe? Email Bekki: bekki(a)theclarks.biz Blessings Ruth *Revd Ruth Barry* *Vicar, St Philip's Church, Cambridge* 185 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 3AN 01223 318315 vicar(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk *My day off is Tuesday*

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St Philip's Church newsletter 29.3.24
by Ruth Barry 29 Mar '24

29 Mar '24

Dear all, *“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead”* 1 Peter 1:3 I appreciate that I am writing this to you on Good Friday – we haven’t yet made it to Easter Day but since this newsletter will take us two weeks into Easter it was important not to be left at the cross! But I do encourage you all to find a way to enter into the narrative of Good Friday – there really is no resurrection celebration without it. You might like to join us at the cross this afternoon or simply light a candle at home and take a moment to be still, perhaps read the account of Jesus’ crucifixion, and take a moment to sit in the enormity of the day. In the gospel of John the glory is in the cross – not in the resurrection. What God was doing through Jesus climaxed and was accomplished there. The forces and powers prevalent in our world which are in direct opposition to God’s goodness, light and love – they were conquered at the cross. In John’s gospel – the cross is seen as an exorcism of these forces casting them out of God’s perfect creation. Jesus death, his submission to these forces, his innocence and his silent submission, publicly exposes them. And once exposed they lose their power. Jesus’s death on the cross exposed the evils, the violence, the jealousy and hatred that controls, and cast them out – so that those powers no longer have the hold that they did. It is what happens when things are brought out of darkness and into the light. And the evidence of this victory? That is what we have on Easter Day – the new life, the new way, the way of freedom from those powers – this is the resurrection we celebrate on Sunday. Yes Jesus is alive – alleluia! But because of him so too are we fully alive – alleluia, alleluia! *News and Upcoming Events* ***Hour at the Cross 3pm today*** *Sunday 28th April – after church - St Philip’s APCM *this is the annual meeting of the church at which we report on the activities of the church through the year, report on our finances and most importantly give thanks for our elected representatives who look after the governance of our church for us. Our church could not function without the voluntary efforts of your PCC – and they are *your* PCC. Elected by the church to make decisions on behalf of the church. If you would like to be elected to join them or if you know someone who you think would be really great to have on this church council - please talk to them, talk to me. We really want to make the PCC as representative of our whole community as possible and it is always good to add fresh eyes to the group so please don’t be shy about coming forward if you’d like to know more. We are particularly looking for someone who would like to become a Deanery Synod Representative which means someone who will take St Philip’s voice to the wider gathering of CofE churches in the area. And if you know this is not for you please pray for God to be encouraging others to step forward - we are all involved in this governance process directly or indirectly! *Electoral Roll* there is also the opportunity to join the church’s Electoral Roll. This is a sort of register of church members for governance purposes: for example, being on the Electoral Roll means you can nominate someone to join the PCC. You are more than welcome in St Philip’s Church, whether or not you are on the Electoral Roll. But if you would like to join it, please collect an application form from Lucy and return it by April 11th. You need to have been baptised, be at least 16 years of age, and be a resident of Romsey Town or a regular worshipper at St P’s for at least 6 months. *Romsey Rabbit Trail *- you will notice the next time you come to church that St Philip’s School have created an amazing display of Rabbits as one of the 30 stops on the Romsey Rabbit Trail. If you’d like to join in and have a map to find all the other rabbit displays you can get hold of one at the Post Office for a donation to St Philip’s School PTA *Friday 5th April – Clare Bigg’s funeral - *A few details from Clare’s daughter Alex. The funeral will be at 2pm - St Mary’s Comberton CB23 7EB. After the funeral, you are warmly invited to join family and friends for refreshments at The Cabin next to St Mary's Church, Hardwick, CB23 7QS. It's a ten minute drive up the road. Parking - There is limited parking at St Mary's Comberton and at the Cabin in Hardwick. Please car share where possible and park on nearby roads. Clothes - Bright colours please! Burial - Mum will be buried in the churchyard at St Mary's Hardwick. It will be close family only for the burial, but after that you are welcome to spend some time by the grave. We would be grateful if you could let us know if you are intending to come to the funeral and/or the Cabin afterwards. Let Alex know at ajbigg(a)gmail.com *Saturday 27th April 10am-4pm Listening for Life Course @All Saints Church Hall Cottenham *A course to learn how to listen well to others, to yourself and to God with effective, reflective listening skills. It will be led by trained tutors – Revd Lynda Davies and Revd Natalie Andrews. For more info or to book on the course: Ely events booking <https://elydatabase.org/events/view?course=3794> *Eco-Bite – our new green “nugget” each week: * Find a way to celebrate the new life around you this Holy Weekend! *Last Week’s sermon* We are still catching up here but this is the link to our sermon archive: St Philip's sermon archive <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/> *This Sunday 31st March – Easter Sunday* *8am – **Sunrise-ish Service (don’t forget the clocks go forward this day) * *10.30am – All Age Holy Communion Celebration for Easter* – our readings will be Acts 10:34-43 and this year we hear the writer of Mark’s account of the resurrection - Mark 16:1-8. If you can't attend church in person you can always use this Zoom link: meeting ID: 976 3739 9129 and Passcode: 330714 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/97637399129?pwd=TGhKWWxOcWF1S242aVhrWDlJdUkxZz09 *Prayers * If any of you have specific prayers you would like us to include in this newsletter do please get in touch. *Lisa Gray – *Heather Jacob’s daughter who has breast cancer has had successful surgery, please pray for her healing, for peace and strength for her and the whole family and also for Heather as she supports them all. *Clare Bigg’s family – *Clare’s funeral will be on Friday 5th April at 2pm in Comberton (see above). Please continue to pray for God’s peace to surround and hold the whole family, and Clare’s church family, in this sudden grief. *St Philip’s School – *Please continue to pray for our local school – particularly a restful holiday for all the staff. *Please also pray for our Mission Partner this month:* *Cambridge Street Pastors* – Laura Leeke and Jane Mann spoke in church last week and asked us to pray for continued provision of people to serve in this capacity but also to give thanks for all the ways God has guided and protected Street Pastors especially in these last months. *Regular Weekly events to join:* *Friday 12noon Lunchtime Bible Club *A relaxed look at the bible passage/s for the upcoming Sunday. Bring along a packed lunch and explore scripture whilst eating lunch together. *Wednesday 12noon Reflective Holy Communion* A quiet time to help find space and peace in the middle of the week. *Monday & Friday 8.30pm – Compline on zoom * Meeting ID: 836 5965 9953 Passcode: 749968 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83659659953?pwd=btP5AjGMu1s-dE_2W9T0MMFqnnPKSS.1 *Wednesday 10.30-12noon & Friday 1.30-3.00 –* Wednesday & Friday Friends *Both are “Warm Spaces” with Tea/coffee, cake/biscuits and chat * Just turn up if you’d like to join us for a cuppa/read the paper/do some of the jigsaw/knit/colour/sit quietly watching the world go by. *Wednesdays 7.00-7.30pm - Weekly Prayers on zoom*: - Meeting ID: 852 1105 2733 Password: 397987 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85211052733?pwd=OE52bm9NS1RtQVQ0ZytTc0xBZnVsUT09 *Saturdays 8.15am - Morning Bible Discussion and Prayer on zoom*: Meeting ID: 143 338 655 Password: 824271 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/143338655?pwd=L1JJTFZJNU9EaFZjaUFjQzVlalpMZz09 With love and prayers Ruth Need to unsubscribe? Email Bekki: bekki(a)theclarks.biz Blessings Ruth *Revd Ruth Barry* *Vicar, St Philip's Church, Cambridge* 185 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 3AN 01223 318315 vicar(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk *My day off is Tuesday*

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St Philip's Church Newsletter 22.3.24
by Ruth Barry 22 Mar '24

22 Mar '24

Dear all, We are nearly entering into Holy Week – the long journey of Lent is drawing to a close as we take those final steps to the cross. I wonder how your journey has been this year? As you look back over these last 5 ½ weeks can you see a shape to your progress through Lent? Have there been any highs or any lows? Have there been any patterns or repetitions you identify from previous years? I wonder if you have discovered anything new about God, about yourself, about faith this year? Before we are drawn into the drama and passion of Holy Week it is good to pause and take time to recognise the pilgrimage we have been on since 14th February. For me, in all honesty, the road has been long and challenging, grey and arduous, heavy with grief. And yet. I have never noticed the scent of spring flowers as much as I have this year and I have never heard the birds singing so loudly as I have this year! Considering we live on a busy road which is noisy and full of fumes I have been amazed that the bird song is audible even over the cars zooming over the Romsey Mill crossroads. And the scent of daffodils, hyacinths and winter box has still been discernible and sweet over the traffic fumes. As a result in these last couple of weeks I have found this verse from Zephaniah looping round and round in my head: *The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.* *Zephaniah 3:17* I wonder what you have noticed about your walk with God this Lent? However your journey has been I pray you will know God with you today. That you will know God’s delight in you. That as we travel into Holy Week and look to the cross, that you will know God’s love for you bringing you freedom. And that this week you too will hear God singing joyfully - louder than any other noise filling your ears. *News and Upcoming Events* *Lent Lunches – our last this week, do join us.* *Lent Book Club will conclude on Wednesday – 7pm at church* *Friday 22nd March *tonight* 7.30pm - Beer & Hymns* Our occasional Men’s Group is gathering at Eric’s house for a Beer and Hymns evening. A great format to have fun singing loud hymns and having a beer (or other drink). See Eric, David or Martin for more details. *Saturday 23rd March – 10am- 12noon – Friends International Commissioning Service @ St Matthew’s Church *Friends International in Cambridge will be introducing and praying for Harriet, the new team leader, as well as praying for Max, one of our staff workers who is moving back to the USA. *Romsey Rabbit Trail *- you will notice the next time you come to church that St Philip’s School have created an amazing display of Rabbits as one of the 30 stops on the Romsey Rabbit Trail. If you’d like to join in and have a map to find all the other rabbit displays you can get hold of one at the Post Office for a donation to St Philip’s School PTA *Easter Services* *Thursday 28th March - Maundy Thursday – 7pm – Reflective Service (with optional foot washing)* *Friday 29th March - Good Friday – 3pm – An hour at the cross* *Sunday 31st March - Easter Sunday – 8am – Sunrise-ish Service (don’t forget the clocks go forward this day) * *10.30am – Holy Communion Celebration* *Friday 5th April – Clare Bigg’s funeral - *A few details from Clare’s daughter Alex. The funeral will be at 2pm - St Mary’s Comberton CB23 7EB. After the funeral, you are warmly invited to join family and friends for refreshments at The Cabin next to St Mary's Church, Hardwick, CB23 7QS. It's a ten minute drive up the road. Parking - There is limited parking at St Mary's Comberton and at the Cabin in Hardwick. Please car share where possible and park on nearby roads. Clothes - Bright colours please! Burial - Mum will be buried in the churchyard at St Mary's Hardwick. It will be close family only for the burial, but after that you are welcome to spend some time by the grave. We would be grateful if you could let us know if you are intending to come to the funeral and/or the Cabin afterwards. Let Alex know at ajbigg(a)gmail.com *Saturday 27th April 10am-4pm Listening for Life Course @All Saints Church Hall Cottenham *A course to learn how to listen well to others, to yourself and to God with effective, reflective listening skills. It will be led by trained tutors – Revd Lynda Davies and Revd Natalie Andrews. For more info or to book on the course: Ely events booking <https://elydatabase.org/events/view?course=3794> *Eco-Bite – our new green “nugget” each week: * Controversial maybe but before you buy all those Easter Eggs with all that packaging to give away this year – consider an alternative – maybe investigating the ones with zero plastic, making your own chocolate eggs or painting hens eggs instead. *Last Week’s sermon* Unfortunately we are having trouble with these links at the moment but hopefully they will be back up and running soon. *This Sunday 22nd March – Palm Sunday/Passion Sunday* *10.30am – Holy Communion with Explorers *– This Palm Sunday we will be hearing the entirety of Christ’s Passion (with everyone joining in!) If you want to familiarise yourself with it: Mark chapters 14 & 15. This may not be a tradition you are used to but it is a wonderful way to immerse ourselves both in scripture and the drama of this season. If you can't attend church in person you can always use this Zoom link: meeting ID: 976 3739 9129 and Passcode: 330714 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/97637399129?pwd=TGhKWWxOcWF1S242aVhrWDlJdUkxZz09 *Prayers * If any of you have specific prayers you would like us to include in this newsletter do please get in touch. *Lisa Gray – *Heather Jacob’s daughter who has breast cancer and will be having surgery on Saturday, please pray for her healing, for peace and strength for her and the whole family and also for Heather as she supports them all. *Clare Bigg’s family – *Clare’s funeral will be on Friday 5th April at 2pm in Comberton (see above). Please continue to pray for God’s peace to surround and hold the whole family, and Clare’s church family, in this sudden grief. *St Philip’s School – *Praise God for answers to prayer with 3 candidates interviewed this week – further news will follow. *Please also pray for our Mission Partner this month:* *Cambridge Street Pastors* – Laura Leeke and Jane Mann spoke in church last week and asked us to pray for continued provision of people to serve in this capacity but also to give thanks for all the ways God has guided and protected Street Pastors especially in these last months. *Regular Weekly events to join:* *Friday 12noon Lunchtime Bible Club *A relaxed look at the bible passage/s for the upcoming Sunday. Bring along a packed lunch and explore scripture whilst eating lunch together. *Wednesday 12noon Reflective Holy Communion* A quiet time to help find space and peace in the middle of the week. *Monday & Friday 8.30pm – Compline on zoom * Meeting ID: 836 5965 9953 Passcode: 749968 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83659659953?pwd=btP5AjGMu1s-dE_2W9T0MMFqnnPKSS.1 *Wednesday 10.30-12noon & Friday 1.30-3.00 –* Wednesday & Friday Friends *Both are “Warm Spaces” with Tea/coffee, cake/biscuits and chat * Just turn up if you’d like to join us for a cuppa/read the paper/do some of the jigsaw/knit/colour/sit quietly watching the world go by. *Wednesdays 7.00-7.30pm - Weekly Prayers on zoom*: - Meeting ID: 852 1105 2733 Password: 397987 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85211052733?pwd=OE52bm9NS1RtQVQ0ZytTc0xBZnVsUT09 *Saturdays 8.15am - Morning Bible Discussion and Prayer on zoom*: Meeting ID: 143 338 655 Password: 824271 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/143338655?pwd=L1JJTFZJNU9EaFZjaUFjQzVlalpMZz09 With love and prayers Ruth Need to unsubscribe? Email Bekki: bekki(a)theclarks.biz Blessings Ruth *Revd Ruth Barry* *Vicar, St Philip's Church, Cambridge* 185 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 3AN 01223 318315 vicar(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk *My day off is Tuesday*

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St Philip's Church newsletter 15.3.24
by Ruth Barry 15 Mar '24

15 Mar '24

Dear all, Today is a bumper newsletter with lots of info – so no long ramble from me. Instead, I share with you the opening prayer from Morning Prayer in the season of Lent as something to pray for yourself, to dwell on, to ponder and to be blessed by. *Blessed are you, God of compassion and mercy,* *to you be praise and glory for ever.* *In the darkness of our sin,* *your light breaks forth like the dawn* *and your healing springs up for deliverance.* *As we rejoice in the gift of your saving help,* *sustain us with your bountiful Spirit* *and open our lips to sing your praise.* *Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.* *Blessed be God for ever.* *News and Upcoming Events* *Lent Lunches – please do continue to join us to eat together after church each Sunday of Lent. *Feel free to bring something to share with others but as I said before, you really don’t need to worry if you can’t or you forget to bring something on the day – it is your company we would really love! *Lent Book Club will continue this week – 7pm at church* *Filming vox pops contributions to the Ely website supporting conversations with people exploring faith *Mark Rodel from the Diocese is building a video bank of lots of Christians from local churches answering some frequently asked questions from those exploring faith. He would like to film at St Philip’s one Sunday afternoon and is looking for a few people willing to answer one or two of the following questions (in a max 3 min segment so no sermons!) The questions are: How is there suffering when God is supposed to be loving? Why does God let so many bad things happen to me? Why is the Church not completely inclusive? Church is boring, just for old people, isn’t it? Do you actually believe the Bible is true? How can a loving God judge us? How can we know if God really exists? How can you believe the world was made in seven days? Who was Jesus really? Is there really a Heaven? Why are Christians such hypocrites? Aren’t all religions the same? If you would be up for being filmed answering one of these questions with your own beliefs let me know! *Electoral Roll* At this time of year, there is an opportunity to join the church’s Electoral Roll. This is a sort of register of church members for governance purposes: for example, being on the Electoral Roll means you could nominate someone to join the PCC. You are more than welcome in St Philip’s Church, whether or not you are on the Electoral Roll. But if you would like to join it, please collect an application form from Lucy and return it by April 11th. You need to have been baptised, be at least 16 years of age, and be a resident of Romsey Town or a regular worshipper at St P’s for at least 6 months. *Friday 15th March – Bible Society Spring Supper *The evening includes a meal of delicious home-made soup and a dessert, this time we will welcome Dr Alison Gary, Director of Studies; Tutor in Old Testament Language, Literature and Theology, Westminster College, Cambridge. Please email penny.f.flynn(a)gmail.com if you hope to attend in person or online - payment of £7 on the door for supper, in cash please. Further donations welcome. *Friday 22nd March – 7.30pm - Beer & Hymns* Our occasional Men’s Group is gathering at Eric’s house for a Beer and Hymns evening. A great format to have fun singing loud hymns and having a beer (or other drink). See Eric, David or Martin for more details. *Thursday 21st March – 1pm – Romsey Rabbits Display *You may have seen the posters around Romsey for the Romsey Rabbits Trail organised by the St Philip’s School PTA – we are hosting a bevy of bunnies in our St Philip’s windows for this trail and if anyone is free and could come help display them please do let me know or just turn up. *Saturday 23rd March – 10am- 12noon – Friends International Commissioning Service @ St Matthew’s Church *Friends International in Cambridge will be introducing and praying for Harriet, the new team leader, as well as praying for Max, one of our staff workers who is moving back to the USA. *Easter @ St Philip’s* *Thursday 28th March - Maundy Thursday – 7pm – Reflective Service (with optional foot washing)* *Friday 29th March - Good Friday – 3pm – An hour at the cross* *Sunday 31st March - Easter Sunday – 8am – Sunrise-ish Service (don’t forget the clocks go forward this day) * *10.30am – Holy Communion Celebration* *Cambridge Month of Accompanied Prayer *Organised by the Diocese of Ely Spirituality Group, a team of prayer guides are offering a Month of Accompanied Prayer in April/May 2024. This is an opportunity for a weekly meeting with a trained guide, either face to face or via zoom or phone from 15th April-10th May all for free! If you are interested, please email Judy Bennett-Prowse at cambsprayer(a)gmail.com for more details and an application form. Or you can contact Kay Dodsworth: 01223 234493 or Romie Ridley: 01223 842922 for more info. A previous participant wrote afterwards: *We all felt like we met God in some way. In our homes, gardens and through our imaginations. It helped us to revisit scripture afresh and talk to Him freely.* *Cambridge Torch Fellowship Group* for people who are visually impaired (blind or partially sighted) to meet, socialise and participate in an informal time of Christian worship – they meet on the second Saturday of the month, starting at 3pm in St Thomas’s Hall, afternoon tea with sandwiches and sweet treats. If you’d like to join them of want more info get in touch with Keren Mallinson: kerenmallinson(a)gmail.com 07957633867 *Sunday 31st March – Sonrise Service 7am @ the Grafton* organised by the Grafton Centre Chaplaincy, this service on Easter Sunday is a wonderful opportunity to come together with Christians from across the city in faith and joy. (You might even manage this and our own 8am Sunrise-ish Service! See above) *Friday 5th April – 2pm @ St Mary’s Comberton - Funeral for Clare Bigg *Mike tells me here will be a “do” at The Cabin @ St Mary’s Hardwick afterwards. If any of you are wanting to go please let me know – there is not much parking at either church it would therefore be good to share lifts. *Saturday 13th April Ben & Dom Spring Tour* – Ben & Dom are a singing duo from south London. Both experienced choir leaders and community musicians they love group singing and encouraging others to join their voices together in harmony. This is a Singing Workshop followed by a performance both taking place at St Philip’s Church. You can find out more and but tickets for the event at benanddom.com *Saturday 27th April 10am-4pm Listening for Life Course @All Saints Church Hall Cottenham *A course to learn how to listen well to others, to yourself and to God with effective, reflective listening skills. It will be led by trained tutors – Revd Lynda Davies and Revd Natalie Andrews. For more info or to book on the course: Ely events booking <https://elydatabase.org/events/view?course=3794> *Vacancies * *Teachers of English as a Foreign Language – *Central Language School Cambridge are seeking full time teachers for permanent and temporary posts. For further information or questions: info(a)centrallanguageschool.com Tel: 01223 502004 www.centrallanguageschool.com Facebook/Instagram: centrallanguageschool *Eco-Bite – our new green “nugget” each week: * Controversial maybe but before you buy all those Easter Eggs with all that packaging to give away this year – consider an alternative – maybe investigating the ones with zero plastic, making your own chocolate eggs or painting hens eggs instead. *Last Week’s sermon* Last week’s sermon: sermon 10.3.24.mp3 <http://sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk/2024-03-10%20-%20Ruth%20-%20c.mp3> If you want to catch up on any sermons: sermons.stphilipschurch.org.uk *This Sunday 17th March – Lent 5* *8.30am – Reflective Holy Communion* – our readings this week are Jeremiah 31:31-34 and John 12:20-33 *10.30am – All Age Worship *– Mike will be leading us in a deeper exploration of our Jeremiah reading and Cambridge Street Pastors will be coming to tell us more about their work and how we can support them. If you can't attend church in person you can always use this Zoom link: meeting ID: 976 3739 9129 and Passcode: 330714 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/97637399129?pwd=TGhKWWxOcWF1S242aVhrWDlJdUkxZz09 *Prayers * If any of you have specific prayers you would like us to include in this newsletter do please get in touch. *Clare Bigg’s family – *some of you will remember Clare, Howard and the family, Clare sadly died last Sunday. Her funeral will be on Friday 5th April at 2pm in Comberton (see above). Please pray for God’s peace to surround and hold them all in this sudden grief. *St Philip’s School – *please continue to pray for our local primary school. Interviews for the new Head Teacher are on Monday. Pray God will give all those involved wise discernment to appoint the right person to lead our school community at this time. *Tracee Giddens* – has a chest infection please pray for her healing and *Lee* is struggling with the death of their neighbour Simon – please pray for God’s peace to rest on them both and on Simon’s friends and family *Please also pray for our Mission Partner this month:* *Cambridge Street Pastors* – “Street Pastors is about Christians rolling up their sleeves and getting involved in practically responding to the problems of crime and safety. They are like beacons on our streets.” David Burrowes, Patron of Ascension Trust It says it all really! Laura Leeke and Jane Mann will be coming to St Philip’s this Sunday to tell us all about it. *Regular Weekly events to join:* *Friday 12noon Lunchtime Bible Club *A relaxed look at the bible passage/s for the upcoming Sunday. Bring along a packed lunch and explore scripture whilst eating lunch together. *Wednesday 12noon Reflective Holy Communion* A quiet time to help find space and peace in the middle of the week. *Monday & Friday 8.30pm – Compline on zoom * Meeting ID: 836 5965 9953 Passcode: 749968 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83659659953?pwd=btP5AjGMu1s-dE_2W9T0MMFqnnPKSS.1 *Wednesday 10.30-12noon & Friday 1.30-3.00 –* Wednesday & Friday Friends *Both are “Warm Spaces” with Tea/coffee, cake/biscuits and chat * Just turn up if you’d like to join us for a cuppa/read the paper/do some of the jigsaw/knit/colour/sit quietly watching the world go by. *Wednesdays 7.00-7.30pm - Weekly Prayers on zoom*: - Meeting ID: 852 1105 2733 Password: 397987 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85211052733?pwd=OE52bm9NS1RtQVQ0ZytTc0xBZnVsUT09 *Saturdays 8.15am - Morning Bible Discussion and Prayer on zoom*: Meeting ID: 143 338 655 Password: 824271 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/143338655?pwd=L1JJTFZJNU9EaFZjaUFjQzVlalpMZz09 With love and prayers Ruth Need to unsubscribe? Email Bekki: bekki(a)theclarks.biz Blessings Ruth *Revd Ruth Barry* *Vicar, St Philip's Church, Cambridge* 185 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 3AN 01223 318315 vicar(a)stphilipschurch.org.uk *My day off is Tuesday*

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