The Mailing 2009/10
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How was Harvest for you?
Hopefully an opportunity for considering the generosity of God in
again providing so much for our needs. But for all that God provides it is us that decide. Christian Aid’s new overarching initiative is entitled ‘Poverty Over’ which seeks to campaign for the necessary structural changes to eradicate global poverty. It is possible - but it involves tough choices? Whilst poverty remains we still have a responsibility of supporting those most affected. The Federation continues to support the work of Onè Respé in the Dominican Republic. For them this time of the year means their work is well under way.125 young people are taking part in weekly youth meetings. These discuss many topics like, sexual health, domestic violence, drugs and alcohol. They also aim to get young people involved in improving their community. 100 Haitian women aretaking part in weekly,`migrant women’s meetings`discussing topics like, personal hygiene, health eating, breast cancer, sexual health, and women’s rights.140 community health promoters taking part in weekly meetings concerning topics such as domestic violence, drugs and alcoholism, healtheating, violence against children, HIV, anti-Haitian prejudice, aging and community harmony.
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Please pray for the Federation
group visit to the Dominican
Republic from November 15th.
Gathered to the heart of God
Prayer Handbook - 2010 by: Edited by Susan Durber Publisher: United Reformed Church Price:£4.90 This annual publication is now a firm favourite. A unique collection of prayers and meditationsPrayer Handbook - 2010 by: Edited by Susan Durber Publisher: United Reformed Church Price:£4.90 This annual publication is now a firm favourite. A unique collection of
prayers and meditationsfor individual or corporate worship that gathers all to the Heart of God. Available from Federation office-order yours today-cheques payable to the Congregational Federation.
Training numbers just keep growing!
Our Integrated Training Course (ITC), which trains people for a variety of ministries, is a real strength of the Congregational Federation. It was described as a course of high quality in a recent audit. One of the reviewers, John Campbell, wrote, ‘It has been a significant privilege to share in exploring the workings of the ITC – its evolving ‘story’; its contribution to people, churches and mission; the commitment and enthusiasm of those who make it happen; the creativity and culture of endless renewal and development that sustain it and promise an exciting future. I believe the Course in its aspirations and in its practice stands up very well to scrutiny. This is a truly good thing.’
Margaret Morris Chair of the Christian Ministries Committee reminds us that this quality that our churches benefit from and deserve comes at a price. The Congregational Federation supports the course and the tutors offer a great deal of time without payment. Numbers continue to rise - last year there were 76 enrolled, this year it’s 86. Please consider giving a donation to the work of this Committee. Thank you for your help with this valuable aspect of the Federation’s work. Explore the training available within the Federation on our website. Our course in now validated by the University of Winchester
Making the most of your Giving
The Federation is encouraging all its churches to maximise their giving through the use of Gift Aid. A Briefing paper was approved at the recent Finance & Support Services Committee. The document includes reference to the new CD Tool kit to help you which has been launched by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). The Toolkit contains clear, basic guidance, templates, an interactive claim form and other materials to help you get started with Gift Aid and use Gift Aid in different fundraising situations. Charities are also encouraged to sign up to receive automatic updates on issues relevant to them from HMRC’s website. CD Toolkit and Briefing available free of charge from the Federation offices. - Just Ask!
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News Round up
Minister’s Stipend 2010 - the Retail Price Index for September is minus 1.4% and consequently the Federation’s recommendation for the minimum level for full time ministry remains at the 2009 level for another year, namely £20,100.
Water Charges - hope in sight - At the recent Labour Party Conference, Environment
Secretary Hilary Benn has announced that the Government will legislate to allow water companies to introduce a social tariff in their areas – thereby bypassing Ofwat. The Press Office quotes him as follows: Some churches, sports clubs and youth groups have been hit by huge increases in their water bills for surface drainage. It isn’tright. So I can tell you today that we will legislate to allow water companies to run concessionary schemes for these organisations so they can get on with the great job they are doing instead of worrying about unaffordable bills.
Back to Church Sunday - 50 plus churches of the Federation took part in the campaign this year. And many encouraging stories have already been heard. Churches seeing increased numbers including one which doubled its usual congregation from 25 to 50. Praise the Lord!! Churches who took part are encouraged to complete and return their evaluation.
Onè Respé Appeal Donations should be sent to CF Nottingham payable to Congregational Federation with Onè Respé on the reverse.