WELCOME AND NOTICES
• Session Report

CALL TO WORSHIP:
We come to worship God.
We are people of faith, but sometimes
have more questions than answers.
We come seeking God’s strength for life.
Sometimes we run out of energy and fear the future.
We come seeking deeper understanding.
Sometimes we are sure of our call, but unsure of our destination.
We come open to new life in the Spirit;
and so we come just as we are.

HYMN: Praise with Joy the World’s Creator (Tune: Praise My Soul)
Praise with joy the world’s Creator,
God of justice, love and peace,
source and end of human knowledge,
force of greatness without cease.
Celebrate the Maker’s glory,
power to rescue and release.

Praise the Son who feeds the hungry,
frees the captive, finds the lost,
heals the sick, upsets religion,
fearless both of fate and cost.
Celebrate Christ’s constant presence –
friend and stranger, guest and host.

Praise the Spirit sent among us,
liberating truth from pride,
forging bonds where race or gender,
age or nation dare divide.
Celebrate the Spirit’s treasure –
foolishness none dare deride.

Praise the Maker, Son and Spirit,
one God in community,
calling Christians to embody
oneness and diversity.
Thus the world shall yet believe,
when shown Christ’s vibrant unity. © WGRG, GIA Publications (VU)

OPENING PRAYERS & THE LORD’S PRAYER

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN

CHILDREN’S SONG: One More Step Along the World I Go
One more step along the world I go,
one more step a-long the world I go,
from the old things to the new,
keep me travelling along with you:
And it’s from the old I travel to the new;
keep me travelling along with you.

Round the corner of the world I turn,
more and more about the world I learn;
all the new things that I see
you’ll be looking at along with me:
And it’s from the old…

As I travel through the bad and good,
keep me travelling the way I should;
where I see no way to go
you’ll be telling me the way, I know:
And it’s from the old…

Give me courage when the world is rough,
keep me loving though the world is tough,
leap and sing in all I do,
keep me travelling along with you:
And it’s from the old… © Stainer & Bell Ltd (VU)

MISSION MOMENT: It’s a piece of cake to be a good neighbour

INTRODUCTION TO THE READINGS

READINGS: Genesis 12: 1-4a Bill Lloyd
Nicodemus’ Long, Long Night (John 3: 1-17)
SERMON

HYMN: Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness
Spirit, Spirit of gentleness,
blow through the wilderness
calling and free.
Spirit, Spirit of restlessness,
stir me from placidness,
wind, wind on the sea.

You moved on the waters,
you called to the deep,
then you coaxed up the mountains
from the valleys of sleep;
and over the ages
you called to each thing,
wake from your slumbers and rise on your wings.

You swept through the desert,
you stung with the sand,
and you goaded your people
with a law and a land;
and when they were blinded
with their idols and lies,
then you spoke through your prophets to open their eyes.

You sang in a stable,
you cried from a hill,
then you whispered in silence
when the whole world was still;
and down in the city
you called once again,
when you blew through your people in the rush of the wind.

You call from tomorrow,
you break ancient schemes.
From the bondage of sorrow
the captives dream dreams;
our women see visions,
our men clear their eyes
with bold new decisions your people arise. © Jim Manley (NJS)

THE OFFERING (Prayer on the screen)

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

HYMN: Great and Deep the Spirit’s Purpose (Tune: Austria WOV 577 )
Great and deep the Spirit’s purpose
hidden now in mystery;
nature bursts with joyful promise,
ripe with what is yet to be.
In a wealth of rich invention,
still the work of art unfolds –
barely have we seen, and faintly,
what God’s great salvation holds.

Great and deep the Spirit’s purpose
making Jesus seen and heard.
Every age of God’s creation
grasps new meanings from the Word.
Show us, Holy Spirit, show us
your new work begun today;
eyes and ears and hearts are open,
teach us what to do and say.

Great and deep the Spirit’s purpose
all God’s children brought to birth,
freed from hunger, fear and evil
every corner of the earth.
And a million million voices
speak with joy the Saviour’s name;
every face reflects his image,
never any two the same.

Great and deep the Spirit’s purpose
nothing shall be left to chance.
All that lives will be united
in the everlasting dance.
All fulfilled and all perfected,
each uniquely loved and known,
Christ in glory unimagined
once for all receives his own. © Marnie Barrell (AA)

THE BLESSING
NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Please stay for morning tea after the service.

THE SESSION HAS CALLED A CONGREGATIONAL MEETING for TODAY following Morning Worship to consider the plans for application to the Presbytery for permission to proceed and uplift the insurance money.

HARVEST THANKSGIVING – CELEBRATING OUR GIFTS NEXT Sunday 30th March.
Please bring a symbol of your gifts/skills for the display.
Our gifts will be given to Waltham Community Cottage. There is a special need for dry goods (packets and tinned) to help with their cooking classes. Pasta and lentils are always acceptable. And think about those wee extras like biscuits, snax, coffee, tea, shampoo (toiletries), sugar, flour, loo paper etc. Also cans of fish, salmon and chicken and tins of hearty beef stews and the like so that they can open a can and put it on toast. Gifts of fresh vegetables and fruit also very welcome. Worship Committee.

The Lenten Study tomorrow at the Manse will look at Nicodemus & Jesus. 10am for morning tea, 10.15am for the study. Chris.

THE FIRESIDE meeting has been postponed from 25th March until Tuesday 1st April. Margaret.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 26th March: Meet 9.30am in Hawford Rd by the carpark entrance to the medical centre. Fay will lead a walk in the area with coffee to follow at Opawa Bakery. If weather is doubtful, please phone Fern 332 4725 to check if walk is “on”.

‘CARING AND SHARING’ – what’s in a name?
Wednesday 26th March – do join us in the Beckenham Methodist Lounge at 2pm.
So – ‘what’s in a name?’ – your chance to come along and find out. Bring yourself, bring a friend. As well as a lot a laughs there will be a fabulous afternoon tea to share after.
We look forward to welcoming everyone. Irene 332 7306.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS: Thursdays 10am – 12 noon in the lounge at Beckenham Methodist. $3. New faces always welcome. Beverley 332 7786.

KNOWING YOUR NEIGHBOUR IS A PIECE OF CAKE 29th – 30th March.
A combined churches of Christchurch initiative, supported by the City Council. The idea is to help people know their neighbours and create stronger community connections. If you wish to participate, bake a cake and give it to your neighbours next weekend, or invite them over for afternoon tea. See Lyndsey McKay for more information.

THE COMBINED APW/MWF COMMUNION SERVICE will be held on Wednesday 2nd April at St James Presbyterian Church, Barrington Street. A shared tea will be held at 6 pm and the communion service led by Rev Chris Elliot will commence at 7 pm. All are welcome to attend. Please contact Allison 332 0554 for further details.

NAMETAGS: Please wear your Church nametag. See Sonya if you require a new one.

PARISH FAIR Saturday 12th April 9am until 12 noon. Time to start cleaning out those cupboards! We will be having the following stalls: Cakes, Preserves/Jams, White Elephant, Books, Plants & Produce. Please Note: We are unable to accept TVs, Computers, Stereos etc or household furniture.

CHURCH A5 DIRECTORY WITH PHOTOS: Session seeks permission to print the Church Directory with a photo beside each family/person to help everyone put names with faces. Sonya has undertaken to take photos, so simply tell her if you are not agreeable, or advise Anna.

HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Court Theatre Thursday 15th May 6.30pm. $41 each, cash payment to Sue on or before Sunday 13th April please. A great idea for Mothers’ Day presents. We need to sell a minimum of 20 seats – please add your name to the list in the lounge. Phone Sue 960 7657 for more information.

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session Monday 28th April 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. Please phone the Parish Office to book.

ORGAN RECITAL by John Dodgshun on TODAY 2.30pm, St Andrew’s at Rangi Ruru. Proceeds to Neil Stocker Memorial Fund. All Welcome.

THE PARISH OFFICE HOURS are Wednesday & Thursday 9am-12noon & Friday 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz, or pop in to 7 Wilsons Rd.

KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz
HUB NEWS: This week’s Hub Report is on the wall in the Lounge.

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Sun 23rd Eian; Mon 24th Maurice, Karlene; Tue 25th Georgia, Oliver; Wed 26th Liam.

Hub Activities for the week 23rd – 30th March 2014

St James Presbyterian Church

Very Important:
Lets get Charlie McLaren to St Louis, USA for life changing surgery. Charlie suffers from Cerebral Palsy and this surgery will enable him to walk. Charlie McLaren is nine years old and lives in Lincoln with his parent’s Mandy and Todd and elder brother George. Charlie attends Addington School and one of his current aspirations is to be a professional tennis player. This surgery will provide him with the opportunity to realise his dreams and potential. Goal = $100,000.00 NZD for the surgery alone. Raised = $1,820.00 NZD Donate online at www.givealittle.co.nz/cause/newlegsforcharlie or see Amanda Wallis and be sure to write in the card for Charlie too.

Tues 25th Mar 9.30am Little Kids music
7.30pm Parish Council meet
Fri 28th Mar 4.30pm Friday Kids meet
Sun 30th Mar 9.00am Service with St Martins at Beckenham Methodist

St Martin’s Presbyterian Church
NB: all events at Beckenham Methodist, Malcolm Ave, unless otherwise specified.
Sun 23 March 9am Morning Worship & Congregational Meeting
Wed 26 March 9.30am Walking Group. Phone June 332 8874
2pm Caring & Sharing. Irene 332 7306
Thu 27 March 10am-12noon Crafty Crafters. $3. Beverley 332 7786
Sun 30 March 9am Morning Worship. Harvest Thanksgiving. A Celebration of our Gifts

Hoon Hay Presbyterian Church
Mondays: 9.30 am & 10.40am Tai Chi in lounge contact Brian 338 6228
1.30 pm Hoon Hay Halswell Friendship Club –4th Monday of
month in lounge – contact Jean 338 2317
6.30pm Christchurch South Parents Centre programme
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Contact Pat 353 0265
Tuesdays: 10.00 am mainly music @ Hoon Hay contact Eleanor 960 4824
Wednesdays: 10.00 am Craft Group. Linda 322 4437
1.00 pm West Spreydon Ladies Indoor Bowls. Sheila 960 4412
7.00 pm Scottish Country Dancing. Contact David 3227954
7.30 pm Parish Council meets 4th Wednesday in study
Thursdays: 9.30 am & 10.40am Tai Chi in lounge contact Brian 338 6228
6.30pm Christchurch South Parents Centre programme
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Contact Pat 353 0265
Fridays: 7.00 pm LIFT – Youth program in lounge –weekly. Matt 027 389 0000
5.00 pm Messy Church -last Friday of month

Cashmere Hills Presbyterian Church
Sun 23 March 11.30am Healing Service
5.30pm Sunday Night Lights
Mon 24 March 9.15am Pre-School Music – contact Jane 965 2425
Wed 26 March 10.00am Forum – discuss last Sunday’s Readings. All Welcome
Thurs 27 March 10.30am – 12 noon Prayer Group at 20 Major Aiken Drive

WELCOME AND NOTICES

CALL TO WORSHIP
As God’s people we are called to the building of community,
breaking down barriers that separate people from one another,
in order to create newness of life.
This morning as we gather in worship may we experience the opportunity to be truly in touch with one another:
sharing the joys and hopes, sorrows and pain that are a part of belonging together; that we might go out from here,
in touch with the needs of the world around us, and beyond us.

HYMN: In This Familiar Place
In this familiar place
I know the mystery of your grace.
For the love that we receive, for the truth that we believe,
We praise and thank you for this here and now.

In halting song and word
the music of your voice is heard.

Among these friends of mine
I taste the company divine.

Within this narrow sphere
I learn that you are everywhere. © Colin Gibson (AA)

OPENING PRAYERS & THE LORD’S PRAYER

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN ~ Gillian Cree

SONG: If I Were a Butterfly
If I were a butterfly,
I’d thank you, Lord, for giving me wings;
and if I were a robin in a tree,
I’d thank you, Lord, that I could sing;
and if I were a fish in the sea,
I’d wiggle my tail and I’d giggle with glee,
but I just thank you, God, for making me “me”.
For you gave me a heart and you gave me a smile,
you gave me Jesus and you made me your child,
and I just thank you, God, for making me “me”.

If I were an elephant,
I’d thank you, Lord, by raising my trunk;
and if I were a kangaroo,
you know I’d hop right up to you;
and if I were an octopus,
I’d thank you, Lord, for my fine looks,
but I just thank you, God, for making me “me”.

If I were a wiggly worm,
I’d thank you, Lord that I could squirm;
and if I were a crocodile,
I’d thank you, Lord, for my big smile;
and if I were a fuzzy-wuzzy bear,
I’d thank you, Lord, for my fuzzy-wuzzy hair,
but I just thank you, God, for making me “me”. ? Brian Howard (NJS)

THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM
Introduction

An Affirmation of Faith (together)
We believe in God:
source of all life, source of all love
ever creating, our past and our future
father and mother of all that is to be.
We believe in God:
Christ of our history, link with eternity,
one with our humanness, revealing life’s hopefulness;
traveller before us, the Sign of the Way.
We believe in God:
Spirit of newness, Spirit of power,
wisdom and wonder, mystery and miracle
moving in freedom, transforming the earth
We believe in the Church:
born amidst struggle, open to changes,
centred in loving and sharing,
moving and growing
heart of community turned to the world.

A Story – Megan

The Baptism

Sung Blessing: The Lord Bless You and Keep You
The Lord bless you, and keep you:
the Lord make his face to shine upon you,
and be gracious unto you.
The Lord lift up his countenance upon you,
and give you peace. C/A

The Baptismal Vows
Family

Congregation: (congregation stands)
And you, the people of St Martins, representing the world-wide Church, do you receive Isobel in the name of Christ?
Yes, we do.

Will you continue to surround all children in our midst, and their families, with love and support?
Yes, we will. We welcome Isobel into the wider family
of God, and commit ourselves to deeper love and service
for the sake of all people.

Presentation of Isobel to the Congregation

A PRAYER FOR FAMILIES

HYMN: All Things Bright and Beautiful (Megan & Jeremy’s choice)
All things bright and beautiful,
all creatures great and small,
all things wise and wonderful
the Lord God made them all.
Each little flower that opens,
each little bird that sings –
he made their glowing colours,
he made their tiny wings.

The purple-headed mountain,
the river running by,
the sunset and the morning
that brightens up the sky,
The cold wind in the winter,
the pleasant summer sun,
the ripe fruits in the garden –
he made them every one.

He gave us eyes to see them,
and lips that we might tell
how great is God Almighty,
who has made all things well. C/A

READINGS: From Psalm 139 Elizabeth Penwell
From Luke 3 – Jesus’ Baptism Warren Pettigrew

REFLECTION

THE OFFERING:
God’s great love for us is expressed in many ways,
and especially in the gift of Jesus Christ.
Our love for God, and for each other, is expressed in tangible ways,
and so we bring our gifts in response to God’s love for us.
God, accept these gifts and our lives,
the work of care that they represent,
and our hope for a fuller life for others, that all may know
the reality of your great love for us. AMEN.

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

HYMN: Celebrate Each Generation (Tune: Stuttgart WOV 200)
Celebrate each generation
celebrate around the earth!
In this Church make dedication
of the miracle of birth.

Every new-born son and daughter
is the Church’s loving claim,
marked by touch of living water
now to take the Christian name.

Be the Christ in those we christen:
body, spirit, both must thrive.
Be the Christ in us who promise
new-born faith to keep alive.

So another generation
may discover truth and good,
flower within the certain future,
bud of hope within the wood. © Shirley Murray (AA)

THE BLESSING

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Please stay for morning tea after the service.

THE SESSION HAS CALLED A CONGREGATIONAL MEETING for Sunday 23 March following Morning Worship to consider the plans for application to the Presbytery for permission to proceed and uplift the insurance money.

LENTEN STUDIES: Monday mornings March 17th, 24th, 31st and April 7th, at the Manse. Come at 10.00 am if you’d like to share in morning tea. Study 10.15 – 11.45 (at the latest). These will be based on Sunday sermon topics. 17th March – Genesis 3, Temptation in the Garden of Eden; 24th March – John 3:1-17, Nicodemus visits Jesus.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 19th March: Meet 9.30am in St Andrews Square off Normans Rd by the entrance to Elmwood Park, at the back of St Andrew’s College. Then by car to Merivale Mall and coffee at McCafe. June 332 8874.

SESSION meets this Wednesday 19th March at 7.30pm.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS: Thursdays 10am – 12 noon in the lounge at Beckenham Methodist. $3. New faces always welcome. Beverley 332 7786.

CHURCH A5 DIRECTORY WITH PHOTOS: Session seeks permission to print the Church Directory with a photo beside each family/person to help everyone put names with faces. Sonya has undertaken to take photos, so simply tell her if you are not agreeable, or advise Anna.

‘CARING AND SHARING’ – what’s in a name?
Wednesday 26th March – do join us in the Beckenham Methodist Lounge at 2pm.
So – ‘what’s in a name?’ – your chance to come along and find out. Bring yourself, bring a friend. As well as a lot a laughs there will be a fabulous afternoon tea to share after.
We look forward to welcoming everyone. Irene 332 7306.

NAMETAGS: Please wear your Church nametag. See Sonya if you require a new one.

PARISH FAIR Saturday 12th April. Time to start cleaning out those cupboards! We will be having the following stalls: Cakes, Preserves/Jams, White Elephant, Books, Plants & Produce. Please Note: We are unable to accept TVs, Computers, Stereos etc or household furniture. More details next week.

HARVEST THANKSGIVING – CELEBRATING OUR GIFTS Sunday 30th March. Our gifts will be given to Waltham Community Cottage. There is a special need for dry goods (packets and tinned) to help with their cooking classes. Pasta, lentils and canned goods are always acceptable. Gifts of fresh vegetables and fruit also very welcome. Worship Committee.

HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Court Theatre Thursday 15th May 6.30pm. $41 each, cash payment to Sue on or before Sunday 13th April please. A great idea for Mothers’ Day presents. We need to sell a minimum of 20 seats – please add your name to the list in the lounge. Phone Sue 960 7657 for more information.

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session Monday 28th April 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. Please phone the Parish Office to book.

ORGAN RECITAL by John Dodgshun on Sunday 23rd March 2.30pm, St Andrew’s at Rangi Ruru. Proceeds to Neil Stocker Memorial Fund. All Welcome.

THE PARISH OFFICE HOURS are Wednesday & Thursday 9am-12noon & Friday 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz, or pop in to 7 Wilsons Rd.

KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz
HUB NEWS: This week’s Hub Report is on the wall in the Lounge.

BECKENHAM METHODIST is having its Fun Day / Fair on Saturday 22nd March from 9am. We would be very grateful for donations of baking, preserves, plants, books, or white elephant items. We can collect any donated item during the week; alternatively it can be left at the church on Friday 21st. Any help on the day would be much appreciated.
For any offers, please phone Kirsty on 337 9784. Thank you so much!

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Mon 17th Marie; Wed 19th Rosalie; Sat 22nd Audrey.

WELCOME AND NOTICES

CALL TO WORSHIP
Gather us in, Holy God. Gather us in, our Creator.
Gather us in, in your name.
Gather us this Lenten season to hear the old, old stories;
to hear the stories of Jesus.
Gather us for worship, God, for there is no better place to be.
Gather us to learn, to grow, to seek your ways,
and to be renewed.

HYMN: Fill Your Hearts with Joy and Gladness
Fill your hearts with joy and gladness,
sing and praise your God and mine!
Great the Lord in love and wisdom,
might and majesty divine!
He who framed the starry heavens
knows and names them as they shine.

Praise the Lord, his people, praise him!
wounded souls his comfort know;
those who fear him find his mercies,
peace for pain and joy for woe;
humble hearts are high exalted,
human pride and power laid low.

Praise the Lord for times and season,
cloud and sunshine, wind and rain;
spring to melt the snows of winter
till the waters flow again;
grass upon the mountain pastures,
golden valleys thick with grain.

Fill your hearts with joy and gladness,
peace and plenty crown your days;
love his laws, declare his judgements,
walk in all his words and ways;
he the Lord and we his children –
praise the Lord, all people, praise! © Hope Publishing (HFTC)

OPENING PRAYERS & THE LORD’S PRAYER

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN ~ Cynthia Cross

CHILDREN’S SONG: The Church is Wherever
The Church is wherever God’s people are praising,
singing God’s goodness for joy on this day.
The Church is wherever disciples of Jesus
remember his story and walk in his way.

The Church is wherever God’s people are helping
caring for neighbours in sickness and need.
The Church is wherever God’s people are sharing
the words of the Bible in gift and in deed. © W. Jenkins (VU)

READINGS: From Psalm 51 – Leslie Brandt David Hodder
Genesis 2: 15-17 and: A Dramatic reading from Genesis 3: 1-14

HYMN: Jesus tempted in the Desert (Tune: Blaenwern WOV 165ii )
Jesus tempted in the desert,
lonely, hungry, tired and worn:
“Use your power,” the tempter tells him;
“turn these barren rocks to bread.”
“Not alone by bread,” he answers,
“can the human heart be filled.
Only by the Word that calls us
Is our deepest hunger stilled.”

Jesus tempted at the temple,
high above its ancient wall:
“throw yourself from lofty turret;
angels wait to break your fall!”
Jesus shuns such empty marvels,
feats that fickle crowds request:
“God whose grace protects, preserves us,
we must never vainly test.”

Jesus, tempted on the mountain
by the lure of vast domain:
fall before me! Be my servant!
Glory, fame, you’re sure to gain!”
Jesus sees the dazzling vision,
turns his eyes another way:
“God alone deserves our homage!
God alone will I obey! ©GIA Publications, Inc (VU)

SERMON: That Fateful Apple!

A TIME OF QUIET

HYMN: O God, You Search Me and You Know Me
O God, you search me and you know me.
All my thoughts lie open to your gaze.
When I walk or lie down you are before me:
ever the maker and keeper of my days.

You know my resting and my rising.
You discern my purpose from afar,
and with love everlasting you besiege me:
in every moment of life, or death, you are.

Before a word is on my tongue , Lord,
you have known its meaning through and through.
You are with me beyond my understanding:
God of my present, my past and future too.

Although your Spirit is upon me,
still I search for shelter from your light.
There is nowhere on earth I can escape you:
even the darkness is radiant in your sight.

For you created me and shaped me,
gave me life within my mother’s womb.
For the wonder of who I am, I praise you:
safe in your hands, all creation is made new. ©Bernadette Farrell (CH4)

THE OFFERING:

You have blessed us with great abundance, O God.
You have called us to be a blessing to others.
May the giving of these gifts
and the sharing of hearts and lives
show that your covenant promises
are living among us. Amen.

WE GREET ONE ANOTHER

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

HYMN: God Gives us a Future (Tune: Camberwell WOV 170ii)
God gives us a future, daring us to go
into dreams and dangers on a path unknown.
We will face tomorrow in the Spirit’s power,
we will let God change us,
for new life starts now.

We must leave behind us sins of yesterday,
for God’s new beginning is a better way.
Fear and doubt and habit must not hold us back:
God gives hope, and insight,
and the strength we lack.

Holy Spirit, teach us how to read the signs,
how to meet the challenge of our troubled times.
Love us into action, stir us into prayer,
till we choose God’s life,
and find our future there. © E J Smith (TIS)

THE BLESSING

THE SESSION HAS CALLED A CONGREGATIONAL MEETING for Sunday 23 March following Morning Worship to consider the plans for application to the Presbytery for permission to proceed and uplift the insurance money.

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Please stay for morning tea after the service.

LENTEN STUDIES: Anyone interested in a four week study please speak to Chris.

GUESS WHO IS COMING TO LUNCH? Next Sunday 16th March 12.30pm
Lists are in the foyer – today is your last chance to sign up. Sonya 339 7038.

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session TOMORROW 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 12th March: Meet 9.30am Café Jireh, 81 Bickerton St (or carpool from 43 St Martins Rd 9.10am). Long streets, but non-walkers are welcome to join us for coffee afterwards – plenty of carparking. Fern 332 4725.

CHRISTCHURCH APW meets on Wednesday 12 March 9.45am at St James’ Church, Barrington Street. Speakers for the morning are from the Neurological Foundation. There will be a Sales Table. Allison 332 0554.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS: Thursdays 10am – 12 noon in the lounge at Beckenham Methodist. $3. New faces always welcome. Beverley 332 7786.

CHURCH A5 DIRECTORY WITH PHOTOS: Session seeks permission to print the Church Directory with a photo beside each family/person to help everyone put names with faces. Sonya has undertaken to take photos, so simply tell her if you are not agreeable, or advise Anna.

NAMETAGS: Please wear your Church nametag. See Sonya if you require a new one.

HARVEST THANKSGIVING – CELEBRATING OUR GIFTS Sunday 30th March. Our gifts will be given to Waltham Community Cottage and there is a list of things they need for their pantry, which helps with their cooking classes. Gifts of fresh vegetables and fruit also very welcome. Worship Committee.

HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Court Theatre Thursday 15th May 6.30pm. $41 each, cash payment to Sue on or before Sunday 13th April please. A great idea for Mothers’ Day presents. We need to sell a minimum of 20 seats – please add your name to the list in the lounge. Phone Sue 960 7657 for more information.

THE PARISH OFFICE HOURS are Wednesday & Thursday 9am-12noon & Friday 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz, or pop in to 7 Wilsons Rd.

KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz
NO HUB NEWS WAS RECEIVED THIS WEEK.

PHONE LIST UPDATE: Please note Ken & Peggy’s address should be Apartment 209 Cashmere View and they have a new phone number: 337 5128.

BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK: Sun 9th Sharyn.

We Celebrate the Children
WELCOME AND NOTICES

CALL TO WORSHIP:
We celebrate birth
The wonder, the miracle, of that tiny life already asserting its selfhood.
We celebrate children
Who laugh out loud, who walk in the mud, who cry at the top of their lungs, who constantly ask questions. Who are so busy living they don’t have time for our hang-ups.
So bring your balloons, bring your toys, dance your dances, sing your songs
Today we celebrate the children.

HYMN: With a Hoot and a Toot
With a hoot and a toot on a pipe or a flute
We will praise, we will worship God;
With a hum or a thrum, with a roll on a drum
We will make him a joyful noise

Bow a cello that is mellow, sound a trumpet call,
Blow a horn and a deep bassoon;
Every instrument is playing, with our voices we are saying
We rejoice, we are glad in God.

With a flat or a sharp, with a chord on a harp,
We will praise, we will worship God;
With a ping on a string, with a choir that can sing,
We will make him a joyful noise.

With the clap of a hand, or the sound of a band,
We will praise, we will worship God;
With a paper and comb, on an old trombone,
We will make him a joyful noise.

With a peal on a bell, with a cheer or a yell,
We will praise, we will worship God;
With a bong on a gong, through the words of this song,
We will make him a joyful noise. ©Colin Gibson (AA)

OPENING PRAYER

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN ~ Being a child in 2014.

HYMN: I’ve Never Seen an Elephant
I’ve never seen an elephant, and an elephant’s never seen me.
I can’t swing like a monkey can from the branch of a tropical tree.
I don’t roar like a lion does, but a lion can’t read my books;
I’m not as huge as a hippo is, but a hippo hasn’t my looks.
Thank you God, thank you God, for it’s very plain to see
that the animals like the way they are, and I’m glad that I like me.

I’ve never met an octopus, and no octopus ever met me.
I can’t dive like a dolphin does through the waves of an indigo sea.
I can’t flop like a flounder can, or sing like a whale in the blue;
I can’t leap like a flying fish, but that fish can’t think like I do.
Thank you God, thank you God, for it’s very plain to see
that the fish all like the way they are, and I’m glad that I like me.

I’ve never heard a mocking-bird, and a mocking-bird’s never heard me.
I can’t climb like a skylark climbs, or nest on the top of a tree.
I don’t hold what a peli-can, but a pelican cannot cry;
I can dream of an aeroplane even though I cannot fly.
Thank you God, thank you God, for it’s very plain to see
that the birds all like the way they are, and I’m glad that I like me.
©Colin Gibson (AA)

BIBLE READINGS:
Exposition
Mark 10: 13 – 16 Beverley Hudson
1 John 4: 7 – 12 Fern Wakefield

SHARING OUR STORIES OF CHILDHOOD

REFLECTION
THE OFFERING:
Gracious God, we bring the gift of money and produce to be used in your service as a sign of love.
We offer ourselves; our time, energy and giftedness to be used in your service within our everyday lives. Amen.

PRAYERS FOR THE CHILDREN OF THE WORLD: Rob & Barbara Meier
THE LORD’S PRAYER

PREPARATION FOR COMMUNION

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH:
We believe in God, the source of life who created human beings to be different and to get on with each other.
We believe in Jesus Christ, who calls us to a life which is absurd by the standards of the world.
We believe in the Spirit of God within and around us, and you and me.
We believe the times when the church is the church when we are a community, a source of love, laughter and the sharer of tears; a people prepared to take risks, working together, that one day this world may be a place where people can live in justice, freedom and peace.
This is our hope, this is our faith. That we dare to believe, always and in spite of everything, in God’s power to transform.

The children join us
HYMN: Do this in Remembrance of Me
Do this in remembrance of me, do this in remembrance of me.
As you eat the bread and drink the cup,
do this in remembrance of me.

My body broken for you, my body broken for you,
and here is my cup, come now take it up and
do this in remembrance of me.
©Val Cash arr Jillian Bray (AA)

THE INVITATION: Jesus Christ invites each one of you to this family meal. In the bread and wine, the sign of Christ’s love we are united in love with God, through Christ and with one another.

ACCEPTANCE: I come to the table in response to the invitation of Jesus Christ, who walked among us and was human like us. I come knowing that I am freed from those things that separate me from God and one another. I come seeking healing and wholeness through Jesus Christ who gave the gift of life for us all.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

INSTITUTION OF THE SACRAMENT

DISTRIBUTION

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION

OFFERING OF THE PEACE OF CHRIST TO ONE ANOTHER

HYMN: Let us Talents and Tongues Employ (WOV 658)
Let us talents and tongues employ,
Reaching out with a shout of joy;
Bread is broken, the wine is poured,
Christ is spoken and seen and heard.
Jesus lives again, earth can breathe again,
Pass the Word around: loaves abound!

Christ is able to make us one;
At his table he sets the tone,
Teaching people to live to bless,
Love in word and in deed express.

Jesus calls us, sends us out
Bearing fruit in a world of doubt,
Gives us love to tell, bread to share:
God-Immanuel everywhere! ©F Kaan

BENEDICTION: Go in peace and carry this sacrament into your everyday life. May the God of justice go with you, the peace of Christ be with you and the loving Spirit be your guide.

Let us celebrate the children with our balloons – blow up your balloon and let it fly free!
NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Please stay for morning tea after the service.

LENTEN STUDIES: Anyone interested in a four week study course please speak to Chris.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 5th March: Meet 9.30am in Hawford Rd by entrance to Opawa Mall. Coffee at Opawa Bakery. June 332 8874.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS: On Thursday 6th March from 10.45 – 11.45am Jo Giles is coming to share her expertise on skincare and makeup. Cost $6 per person, including morning tea in the lounge at Beckenham Methodist. Everyone is very welcome. Beverley 332 7786.

CHURCH A5 DIRECTORY WITH PHOTOS: Session seeks permission to print the Church Directory with a photo beside each family/person to help everyone put names with faces. Sonya has undertaken to take photos, so simply tell her if you are not agreeable, or advise Anna.

NAMETAGS: A reminder to everyone that it is helpful if you wear your Church nametag. Please see Sonya if you require a new one.

GUESS WHO IS COMING TO LUNCH? Sunday 16th March 12.30pm
Lists are in the foyer – sign up TODAY! Guests pay $5 to the Host to cover expenses. Hosts are asked to provide a simple lunch and can indicate how many Guests they would like. Feel free to put your name on both the Host and the Guest list if you are happy to be either. Guests will be handed an envelope with directions to their Host’s home at the morning service on 16 March. The St James’ congregation has also been invited to participate. Sonya 339 7038.

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session Monday 10th March 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. Please phone the Parish Office 332 6192 to book.

THE PARISH OFFICE HOURS are Wednesday & Thursday 9am-12noon & Friday 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz, or pop in to 7 Wilsons Rd.

KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz
HUB NEWS: This week’s information is displayed on the wall in the Lounge.

ASH WEDNESDAY Service 7.30pm 5th March at St Anne’s Anglican Church, cnr Wilsons & Centaurus Roads: all are welcome to attend.

We have been invited to sell produce and baking at the St Nicholas’ Anglican Church Fun Day on Saturday 8th March from 12 noon-3pm. If you are able to bake something, please price it and drop it off at the venue (cnr Barrington & Frankleigh Streets) on the day around noon. All contributions gratefully received. See Sue 960 7657 for details.

HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Court Theatre Thursday 15th May 6.30pm. $41 each, cash payment to Sue on or before Sunday 13th April please. A great idea for Mothers’ Day presents. We need to sell a minimum of 20 seats – please add your name to the list on the clipboard on the table in the Lounge. “Sherlock Holmes goes barking mad! Three actors tackle murder, madness and a monster marauding on the moors in this gloriously funny makeover of the classic British mystery”. Phone Sue 960 7657 for more information.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER Beckenham Baptist Church on Friday 7th March – all are welcome.

Has anyone mislaid a pair of spectacles? Joan Averis has some that are not hers and she would love to reunite them with their rightful owner!

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Sun 2nd Marilyn; Thu 6th Errol; Sat 8th Anne.

HUB Activities for the week 2nd – 9th March 2014

St James’ Presbyterian Church
Fri 7 Mar World Day of Prayer Service at Sacred Heart
Church Spencer Street, Addington. Morning Tea
at 10.00am; Service 10.30am.
Sun 9 Mar 10am Communion, followed by shared lunch
5.00pm Stephanie’s Commissioning service,Trinity Church, Darfield.
.

St Martin’s Presbyterian Church
NB: all events at Beckenham Methodist, Malcolm Ave, unless otherwise specified.
Sun 2 Mar 9am Children’s Day Service & Communion
Wed 5 Mar 9.30am Walking Group. Meet Hawford Rd by entrance
to Opawa Mall. Coffee at Opawa Bakery. June 332 8874
Thu 6 Mar 10am-12noon Crafty Crafters. Speaker: Jo Giles $6. Beverley 332 7786
Fri 7 Mar 10am World Day of Prayer, Beckenham Baptist . Ph 337 1416
Sun 9 Mar 9am Morning Worship

Hoon Hay Presbyterian Church
Mondays: 9.30 am & 10.40am Tai Chi in lounge. Brian 338 6228
6.30pm Christchurch South Parents Centre programme
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Tuesdays: 10.00 am mainly music @ Hoon Hay. Eleanor 960 4824
Wednesdays: 9.30 am U3A in lounge. Pauline 332 0453
1.00 pm West Spreydon Ladies Indoor Bowls. Sheila 960 4412
7.00 pm Scottish Country Dancing. David 322 7954
Thursdays: 9.30 am & 10.40am Tai Chi in lounge contact Brian 338 6228
7.00 pm Beading Guild. Gayle 322 6073
6.30pm Christchurch South Parents Centre programme
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Fridays: 7.00 pm LIFT – Youth program in lounge. Matt 027 389 0000

Cashmere Hills Presbyterian Church
Sun 2 Mar 10.00am Morning Worship
Mon 3 Mar 9.15am Pre-School Music . Jane 965 2425
1.45pm Cashmere Garden Club
Wed 5 Mar 10.00am Forum – discuss last Sunday’s Readings. All Welcome
Thurs 6 Mar 10.30am – 12 noon Prayer Group at 20 Major Aiken Drive
Mon 10 Mar 2.00pm Foot Clinic

Saturday 8th March, 9am-12noon
MONSTER GARAGE SALE
at Cashmere Presbyterian Church

WELCOME AND NOTICES

CALL TO WORSHIP:
In calling the Church into being, God had a vision of a body
to give expression to the life the disciples had seen in Jesus.
This Body of Christ, the Church, is created with the mandate
to make real the love of God in tangible ways, for a world
where that love is the greatest challenge and the greatest hope.

Let us respond to God’s call, and open ourselves to the Spirit,
that we may reach beyond our own capacities,
to be all that God intended the Church to be.

HYMN: Praise With Joy (Tune: Praise My Soul WOV 68)
Praise with joy the world’s Creator,
God of justice, love and peace,
source and end of human knowledge,
force of greatness without cease.
Celebrate the Maker’s glory,
power to rescue and release.

Praise the Son who feeds the hungry,
frees the captive, finds the lost,
heals the sick, upsets religion,
fearless both of fate and cost.
Celebrate Christ’s constant presence –
Friend and Stranger, Guest and Host.

Praise the Spirit sent among us,
liberating truth from pride,
forging bonds where race or gender,
age or nation dare divide.
Celebrate the Spirit’s treasure –
foolishness none dare deride.

Praise the Maker, Son and Spirit,
one God in community,
calling Christians to embody
oneness and diversity.
Thus the world shall yet believe,
when shown Christ’s vibrant unity. © Wild Goose (VU)

OPENING PRAYERS:

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN ~ Wayne Barton

HYMN: He Came Singing Love (WOV 636)
He came singing love and he lived singing love;
he died, singing love. He arose in silence.
For the love to go on we must make it our song:
you and I be the singers.

He came singing faith and he lived singing faith;
he died, singing faith. He arose in silence.
For the faith to go on we must make it our song:
you and I be the singers.

He came singing hope and he lived singing hope;
he died, singing hope. He arose in silence.
For the hope to go on we must make it our song:
you and I be the singers.

He came singing peace and he lived singing peace;
he died, singing peace. He arose in silence.
For the peace to go on we must make it our song:
you and I be the singers. © Colin Gibson (WOV)

INTRODUCTION TO THE READINGS

READINGS: Psalm 119: 33-40 from The Message Warren Pettigrew
Matthew 5:38-48 Judith Mackay

SERMON

A TIME OF QUIET

HYMN: Diverse in Culture, Nation, Race (Tune:ChurchTriumphant WOV 1)
Diverse in culture, nation, race,
we come together by your grace.
God, let us be a meeting ground
where hope and healing love are found.

God, let us be a bridge of care
connecting people everywhere.
Help us confront all fear and hate
and lust for power that separate.

When chasms widen, storms arise,
O Holy Spirit, make us wise.
Let our resolve, like steel, be strong
to stand with those who suffer wrong.

God, let us be a table spread
with gifts of love and broken bread,
where all find welcome, grace attends,
and enemies arise as friends. © Ruth Duck (DTU)

THE OFFERING:
Lord with our gifts today we bring ourselves as an offering.
Take us and use us in the week ahead.
Use our feet to go places for you.
Use our hands to serve you.
Use our mouths to speak for you
that your reign may come on earth. Amen.

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER

HYMN: Be Thou My Vision (Tune: Slane WOV 455)
Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;
naught be all else to me, save that thou art,
thou my best thought, by day or by night,
waking or sleeping, thy presence my light.

Be thou my wisdom, my calm in all strife;
I ever with thee, and thou in my life;
thou loving parent, thine own I would be;
thou in me dwelling, and I one with thee.

Riches I heed not, nor vain empty praise,
thou mine inheritance, now and always:
thou, and thou only, the first in my heart,
great God of heaven, my treasure thou art.

Great God of heaven, after victory won,
may I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heaven’s sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
still be my vision, O ruler of all. C/A

THE BLESSING

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Please stay for morning tea.

LENTEN STUDIES: Anyone interested in a four week study course please speak to Chris.

FIRESIDE meets on Tuesday 25th February 7.30pm at 43 St Martins Rd. While we catch up with each other after the holidays, we plan to pack up the contents of the church kitchen. Enquiries: Allison 332 0554 or Margaret 366 8936.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 26th February: Meet 9.30am in Port Hills Rd by Martindales Rd roundabout, Heathcote Valley. Afterwards, car pool to Castle Rock Café, Mary Muller Drive (off Chapmans Rd). June 332 8874.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS: On Thursday 6th March from 10.45 – 11.45am Jo Giles is coming to share her expertise on skincare and makeup. Cost $6 per person, including morning tea. Everyone is very welcome. Beverley 332 7786.

GUESS WHO IS COMING TO LUNCH? Sunday 16th March 12.30pm
Lists are in the foyer. Guests pay $5 to the Host to cover expenses. Hosts are asked to provide a simple lunch and can indicate how many Guests they would like. Feel free to put your name on both the Host and the Guest list if you are happy to be either. Guests will be handed an envelope with directions to their Host’s home at the morning service on 16 March. St James’ congregation has also been invited to participate. Sonya 339 7038.

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session Monday 10th March 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. Please phone the Parish Office 332 6192 to book.

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Wednesday & Thursday 9am-12noon & Friday 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz, or pop in to 7 Wilsons Rd.

HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Court Theatre Thursday 15th May 6.30pm. $41 each, cash payment to Sue on or before Sunday 13th April please. We have seats in the front two rows pencilled in – please add your name to the list on the clipboard on the table in the Lounge. “Sherlock Holmes goes barking mad! Three actors tackle murder, madness and a monster marauding on the moors in this gloriously funny makeover of the classic British mystery”. Phone Sue 960 7657 for more information.

NEW SUNDAY READERS’ ROSTER OUT TODAY – please check to see if there’s one for you.
BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Sun 23rd Bessie; Tue 25th Bill; Thu 27th Elizabeth.

Hub Activities for the week 23rd February – 2nd March 2014

St James’ Presbyterian Church
Tue 25 Feb 9.30am Little Kidz Music in Hall Lounge
7.30pm Parish Council meets
Fri 28 Feb 4.30pm Fri Kidz

St Martin’s Presbyterian Church
NB: all events at Beckenham Methodist, Malcolm Ave, unless otherwise specified.
Sun 23 Feb 9am Morning Worship
Tue 25 Feb 7.30pm Fireside. 43 St Martins Rd. Margaret 366 8936.
Wed 26 Feb 9.30am Walking Group. June 332 8874.
Thurs 27 Feb 10am-12noon Crafty Crafters. $3. Beverley 332 7786.
Sun 2 Mar 9am Children’s Day Service

Hoon Hay Presbyterian Church
Mondays: 9.30 am & 10.40am Tai Chi in lounge. Brian 338 6228
1.30 pm Hoon Hay Halswell Friendship Club. Jean 338 2317
6.30pm Christchurch South Parents Centre programme
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Tuesdays: 10.00 am mainly music @ Hoon Hay. Eleanor 960 4824
Wednesdays: 10.00 am Craft Group. Linda 322 4437
7.00 pm Scottish Country Dancing. David 3227954
7.30 pm Parish Council meets in study
Thursdays: 9.30 am & 10.40am Tai Chi in lounge. Brian 338 6228
6.30pm Christchurch South Parents Centre programme
7.30 pm Spreydon Indoor Bowls. Pat 353 0265
Fridays: 7.00 pm LIFT – Youth program in lounge. Matt 027 389 0000
5.00 pm Messy Church -last Friday of month.

Cashmere Hills Presbyterian Church
Sun 23 Feb 11.30am Healing Service
5.30pm Sunday Night Lights
Mon 24 Feb 9.15am Pre-School Music. Jane 965 2425
Wed 25 Feb 10.00am Forum – discuss last Sunday’s Readings. All Welcome
Thurs 26 Feb 10.30am – 12 noon Prayer Group at 20 Major Aiken Drive