In this week's video, Simon reflects on the gift of encouragement. He reminds us to consider the example of St Barnabas who encouraged St Paul in the spreading of the gospel by the early church. He also reminds us to think about those who led us to faith in Jesus Christ and how we can encourage others and lead them to Christ. He asks how we might return the encouragement to those who brought us to faith by sending them a letter, email or text this week to say thank you!You can watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNC_0OPwwc0
Why not join us this Saturday,18th November 2023 between 11am and 2:30pm for the popular Charity Christmas Market at Christ Church and the Community Centre - FREE ENTRY!To be opened by the Mayor of Swindon and Father Christmas at 11am.There will be over 30 local charities in attendance with stalls full of Christmas present gifts and ideas.As well as the great choice of stalls, further highlights include:Father ChristmasChristmas Carols sung by the choirFestive handbell ringingBell Tower Tours (timed entries)RaffleRefreshmentsPlease note that all participating charities will keep all of their proceeds.You can download the flyer at the bottom of the pageLocation: Christ Church and the Community CentreCricklade StreetSwindonSN1 3HBFor more info:email: sec.focc@gmail.comTel: 01793 617237#christchurchswindon #christmas2023 #christmasmarket
In this week's video, Simon reflects on the Remembrance Services of last week and looks ahead to the coming week in the church.Simon focuses on reconciliation and bridge-building and draws our attention to Jesus' prayer for unity in John 17 and our partnership with the Old Town churches.Simon asks that we pray for peace in Gaza and Israel, and in Ukraine and Russia; and for the meeting of the General Synod this week in London. Simon ends the video with the Old Town Partnership prayer.You can watch the video on YouTube using the link below:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ItHbP6kKtA #christchurchswindon #churchlife #weeklynews #weeklyupdate
A Soldier's StoryI was 15 when my journey started when I got on that train to Aldershot, I was a bit scared but excited all at the same time and wondered what the future had to offer.After my training my military career not only took me to some wonderful places, I met people who I not only owe my life too, but they will always be in my thoughts, and I owe them everything and that created a bond that will never be broken.At the age of 28 I was injured serving and had to be airlifted out of conflict, which I felt was letting my comrades down. That feeling hasn’t left me and after months and months of rehabilitation unfortunately I was medically discharged which devastated me as I was leaving the only thing I knew from school.My fighting didn’t end here as I was torn from something I loved which has taken its toll on my mental health. At the time I was in denial and stuck my head in the sand. It took me until I was fifty years old to realize with the help of wonderful friends and people, I met at church that I was suffering and needed help. I reached out to the charity Help for Heroes, and they have been amazing in helping me overcome my past which will only make my future very positive. So, on remembrance weekend have a thought for all those veterans and families who are still fighting every day with trauma and injuries. I am so proud that I served, and I owe everything to the armed forces and that bond I will have for life.https://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/By Paul Flounders, a member of our congregation, who served in the Royal Logistics Core and Royal Green Jackets.
