September 2026 Newsletter
Happy New Year – that’s Methodist Year and, for those involved in education, academic year. Although it’s now 30 years since I left teaching (where has that time gone?) I can still vividly remember the new beginnings that September brought. New registers. New mark book. New pupils to get to know. New exercise books to issue. In some cases continuing with the same pupils, some groups I was delighted to see again, others I hoped that after a break we might start the term on a new footing. Not many weeks, in fact often days, would go by before mistakes were made. Corrections needed in the register, new pupils to add to a group spoiling the alphabetical order. So many memories, most I’m glad to say are good ones!
Of course, the good news is that with God, we can know that ‘clean page’ at any time in the year if we turn to God and ask for forgiveness and cleansing.
I don’t know anyone who makes New Year Resolutions in September, but there is no reason why we shouldn’t make decisions about how we want to approach this new Methodist year, especially as this year it involves further changes in the circuit as we now operate with just one minister. I am very grateful for the help given by Supernumeraries John Pugh and Colin Jackson. Colin has been helping out for the last year but is now listed as being in this circuit, along with his wife Janet, though she continues to work part time in the Stokesley circuit so we see less of her. Even with that assistance one minister cannot do the same as two did and there will need to be adjustments as realistic expectations are established.
One way this can be more manageable is by some things happening for the whole circuit rather than in each individual church. This isn’t new – we’ve held circuit Lent and Advent groups for a few years now. I mentioned last month a 12 session ‘On The Way’ course. Having had no responses as to the preferred time in the week for this to take place, I’ve gone for the best fit in my diary which is Wednesday mornings 10 – 11.30am. This will start on 21st October – so giving lots of notice and lots of time for people to spread the word and block their diaries. 8 weeks from 21st Oct – 9th Dec, then a break and 4 sessions in January. We do need people to book a place at least a week beforehand so that enough books can be purchased. Either register with me, or with Carol Ann – castleedenmeth@gmail.com, 07768983718. The venue will be flexible! The first 4 sessions will be held in Peter Lee, in the main worship area. Depending who is attending we may then move elsewhere for the next 4 sessions so the travel is shared out. Another reason why we need people to book so we know who to keep informed about the venue.
If you are not already part of a small group who meet for fellowship might your resolution be to give this a go? The material is suitable for life-long Christians and equally for people who are just beginning to explore faith. I hope you will consider coming along. If you have any questions do get in touch. (Beverly.Hollings@methodist.org.uk or telephone 01429 409563).
God bless you
Bev
Diary Dates
Wednesday 09 September – 10am Central Estate Service of Holy Communion and rededication for all Local Preachers and Worship Leaders.
Baptisms
There are a number of baptisms this month, if you are able to come and show the support of the church please do.
Sunday 06 September – 1pm Milbank Liara Lynda
Sunday 20 September – 2pm Peterlee Kyren and Skylar
Sunday 27 September – 2pm Peterlee Peterlee Rosie Helen
Advance Notice
Oxford Road Baptist Church Hartlepool are having a visit from Pastor Heli who is the Secretary of Good News Ministries India. He will be telling of what God is doing in India through Good News Ministries at 4pm on Sunday 11th October. All are welcome. Refreshments will be served after the service.