Rev. Dr. Megan Smith has been appointed as the new Archdeacon of Stoke on Trent . Read about her wealth of experience and professionalism that she brings to her new appointment. This week Rev. Noreen Russell reflects on baptism as a rite of passage as three families in the benefice seek baptism over the next month. In the bible Jesus sent his disciples out to teach and baptise and Noreen writes about the symbolism of baptism.
We are delighted to welcome Rev John Beswick Pallister, his wife Laura and family to our benefice and who will be joining us shortly. John comes to us from the benefices of Betley and Madeley where he has been recently serving as Assistant Curate. This weeks edition has all the usual stories of interest and fascinating facts.This weeks message written by Nicky Beasley is based on Mark 6:14-29 and is the story of the death of John the Baptist. In the light of this truly horrible story and the events surrounding his death does evil have the final say ? Doreen English has written our intercessions for this week.
Read some of the heartwarming messages from folk wishing to thank those to whom they have been given help , support and encouragement. St.Mary's are celebrating this special day during the morning service and afterwards in the churchyard so come along and join us bring a picnic and enjoy refreshments of tea and coffee. Everyone is welcome.Read the latest update from Tearfund the charity about the huge humanitarian crisis that is looming in Yemen. Tear fund is a christian charity partnering with churches around the world to tackle poverty and injustice through sustainable developement .
David Smith chair of St. James' DCC has won a Lifetime Acheivement Award for an incredible 44 years of service at Stafford Samaritans ! Well done David such an acheivement !Further afield Archbishop Justin Welby has been spotted as an undercover Big Issue vendor read what his thoughts were about doing this and how buying a copy from a vendor can change society. Our bible passge this Sunday is from Mark 5:21-43 and is the story of Jesus who heals a woman and Jairus's daughter.June Steed has written this weeks sermon and tells us that both people have an urgent need of Jesus in what they dealing with. Both, says June have a faith in Jesus and beleive that he can help them in their need. What is true faith and where can we find it ? June offers her thoughts on this question read on to find out.
