St. John's Mission 2000

THIS WAS AN EXCITING PHASE IN THE LIFE OF THE PARISH!

It seemed very appropriate to have a Mission event in this millennium year, though mission is something we are always engaged in through our daily lives.
TREVOR WILLMOTT, our Archdeacon, agreed to come and speak to us, and actually gave us much of his valuable time. He preached for us on the first Sunday of the mission and also gave excellent talks on two nights during the week. His input, time and committment have been most welcome and valuable, and we are very grateful to him.
JANET HODGESON, the Diocesan Advisor in Mission, also came to us on two occasions; Janet, a South African, is a well known and much sought after speaker, and we were very lucky to be able to welcome her to Castleside for the first time.
We also welcomed CHRISTOPHER WARDALE from Darlington, who performed his one man special dramatised presentation of St. Mark's Gospel - He had us spellbound. Definitely not one to be missed if the opportunity comes your way.

Friday night was youth night, and our youngsters had an evening of fun and food with their invited guests.

Saturday was our children's day (6-11 years) with PAUL ALLINSON leading the day for us - it was FUN! and part of the day saw the production of a huge collage which we hope will be able to go on show in Durham soon. Saturday evening we had a family party and a 'Mr & Mrs. Competition' ; a faith supper, home made entertainment, and a chance to relax and reflect.

Sunday saw the close of the Mission with Janet Hodgeson preaching for us and rounding up the week in the morning service, and a joint Songs of Praise with the Grove Methodists in the evening.

During the week, there were opportunities to join in daily prayer in the morning and evening, and also a daily noon-time Eucharist. Those attending Morning Prayer also shared a breakfast in the church hall.

Several people have already said that living in the light of Christ, knowing that God loves them, and belonging to the church family has turned their world around; that's wonderful. Now we want others to know that, be touched by it and share in it too.