The Rev Jim Cartlidge was formally welcomed into the Rural Daneside Churches at a special service at St. Peter’s, Swettenham on 7th July. The Bishop of Chester, the Rt. Rev. Mark Tanner led the service in a packed church with representatives of our four parishes coming together with many visitors from the Rev Jim’s former Benefice in Stone, Staffs.Bishop Mark suggested Jim approaches his time with us with a little bit of mischief alongside his deep faith, and encouraged him always to remember ‘Anyone, any time, anything, anywhere’ in his approach to his ministry. Wardens from the four parishes within Rural Daneside gave their own welcome, along with representatives from the wider church community, including Marton C of E school. The Rev Jim was later able to mix with people from his new parishes at a buffet at Swettenham Club with refreshments by Daisy Bank Catering.
If you have any names that you would like to be placed on the weekly pew sheet's prayer list, please would you email rural.daneside@gmail.com or leave a message on the vicarage answerphone on 01260 224447. It would be helpful if you could let us know which church you are with.It would also be very helpful if you could let us know when the name can be taken off the list. Thank you.
Why do we sing in church? Sunday 9th June is the 2nd Sunday after Trinity, it also happens to be ‘Music Sunday’ and it is taking place in churches all over the country. It is organised by the Royal School of Church Music.Think back to the last birthday party you went to. Did you sing “Happy Birthday?” My guess is that your answer would be “yes”. Singing occurs naturally – at a concert, with families and friends at a funeral, a wedding, a baptism, and of course at our church services.Why do we sing in church could be a question you may have asked yourself. Generally speaking, singing in a congregational setting has been a widely accepted practice amongst various denominations, age groups, and even cultures. So why is that? Why do we sing? Here could be five reasons why we sing in church.1. There are hundreds of references to singing in the Bible. Jesus himself sang songs of praise after the last supper. So, if we are to replicate the character of Christ, I am sure that singing should always be part of our services.2. The earliest Christians put their community beliefs in songs, which is why the composition of hymns or sacred songs developed and have been sung throughout history.3. As you may know, hymns and other Christian songs are full of rich, theological text. The act of singing uses both parts of the brain; therefore, it can educate us and teach us about the gospel of Jesus.4. Singing in church connects us emotionally. Songs of celebration have the power to lead us to dance. Songs of lament have the power to lead us to tears. Music has a way of piercing into the deep parts of our soul, that assists in our expression and response to God and to the church.5. The gospel alone unites believers to one another. However, music is a tool that allows us to do so. As we gather on the Sabbath, we join as one body, and praise God with one voice.We recognise that God gives each of us different gifts. But at the end of the day, we are all called, wanted, and expected to sing.So, join us at Christ Church, Eaton on 9th June 9.45am for a service with some wonderful singing! Happy days!John
The postal address for the Benefice remains:The VicarageSchool LaneMartonMacclesfieldSK11 9HDThe Benefice office of the Rural Daneside Churches has been relocated from the Vicarage to new premises. It does not have a post box.The address is:Colshaw Heath FarmColshaw LaneSiddingtonMacclesfieldCheshireSK11 9LZThe office will usually be open on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, and Wednesday and Thursday afternoons.To contact the benefice administrator, during her working hours of Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, the number is 07443 902 191.The dedicated number for christenings, baptisms, weddings and funerals is 07410 223386.The vicarage landline will continue to be monitored during the week.
