Pastor's Page
On this page, you'll find some reflections on church life in Barnstaple and North Devon. If you want to ask any questions, or make any comments, about what's here, please contact me via the form on the 'Contact Us' page.
With every blessing,
David.
(Rev David Hughes, Minister)
MONDAY OCTOBER 31st
After a wonderful week of sunshine and warmth earlier in the month, autumn is very definitely here; and, now the clocks have gone back an hour, the days start to get significantly 'shorter'.
We've been away to Cornwall very recently and we were amazed by the clear sight of the evening sky in the quiet area in which we were staying. The sky was oh so dark, but amidst the darkness a myriad of stars shone brightly - it was so dazzlingly beautiful. This evening (October 31st), many people will be marking Hallowe'en by dressing up in all sorts of costumes which only reflect the spiritual darkness of the world - and so I pray that, at this time and at every time, God's people will shine as brightly as stars in that darkness, helping others to navigate towards Jesus Christ.
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name ...
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 19th
The weekend just passed was a busy one! On Friday evening, I and the rest of the Acoustic Cafe team were delighted with the size of the turn-out at The Boston Tea Party, where local Christian musicians Izzy Cook, Bri McKendrick, and Jack Turner entertained us all quite brilliantly. We had the Soularium downstairs, as usual, and
we managed to raise a good sum of money for Oxfam's East Africa fund as well.
On Sunday evening, we held our monthly Soul Cafe worship gathering at church and
the interactive nature of the event always goes down well. It's a good mix of material on DVD and presented 'live', and discussion round the tables. At the moment, we're discussing Elijah.
On Wednesday evening (7.30-9.00), it's SPACE again at The Water Gate pub on The Strand. It's a time when Dave Symons (Counties Evangelist) and I go along ready to discuss with anyone who comes along some of the things that are on their minds, hopefully bringing a Christian perspective to the conversation. Come along if you're around on Wednesday.
Finally, on Saturday we're holding our 'Wedding Memories' exhibition at the church, giving us a chance to celebrate Christian marriage and to meet lots of local people. The exhibition is on from 10.30 a.m. till 3.00 p.m. on Saturday and 12 noon till 3.00 p.m. on Sunday, if you'd like to visit.
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 9th
We re-start Messy Church tomorrow after the summer break. It will be good to see the regulars and let's hope there might be a few newcomers. Messy Church has been such a success in our church over the last couple of years and I thoroughly enjoy being involved in it.
Next Friday evening, our next Acoustic Evening takes place at the Boston Tea Party cafe. This, too, has been a roaring success over the past 2 years, with 100 people regularly attending and listening to high quality acoustic music performed by local Christian artists. We've raised a good amount of money for local charities and also encouraged the arts in North Devon. We're really bowled over by how well it's been received. If you're in Barnstaple next Friday, why not come along?
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 8th
Well, the summer holidays are over and a new season begins at church. We are now preparing for our 'Wedding Memories' weekend at the church on Sept 24/25, when we will have an exhibition of wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and other wedding memorabilia from decades past. Our Sunday service also provides an opportunity for couples to renew their wedding vows. It's going to be a lot of hard work, but we think it will be something that will celebrate marriage and appeal to a wide local audience.
If you are in the area over that weekend, pop along to have a look at the exhibition and join us for our Sunday morning service. If you can't come, please do pray for its success.
FRIDAY AUGUST 5th
Just a bit of fun!
MONDAY JULY 18th
I've decided to have a tidy-up of this page and have deleted all outdated entries, so it seems like a fresh start!
As we approach the school holidays, the weather in Barnstaple is decidedly autumnal, following the pattern of the last 3 years. Still, there are many visitors to Devon at this time of year and, as a church, we welcome many holidaymakers and, in turn, are blessed by their presence amongst us.
If you are visiting the Barnstaple area during the holiday season, we would love to see you at one of our Sunday services. Do email me via the 'Contact us' page and let me know when you're hoping to come - it would be lovely to welcome you when you arrive.
With every blessing,
David.
