Our 119th Church Anniversary

I am sure that 16th October 2005 will be a date that will remain in several people's memories as a very special day.  Yes, the Church has reached its 119th birthday, which in itself is something for which we can thank God.  He has been gracious to us as a Fellowship in our witness in the village over all these years.

However, the Baptismal Service in the evening will evoke so many happy memories too.  Everyone of the nine people being baptised were so sincere and sure of their reasons for passing through the waters of baptism and it was indeed such a thrill to be part of the company of people witnessing their obedience to God.

The young ladies, Catherine, Rebecca, Victoria, Jessica, Sherrie, Fiona and Julie spoke so sincerely of their belief in the Lord Jesus Christ and why they felt that they should be obedient and take this step of baptism.

Also, it was so special that Paul and his young son, David, could share in this act of obedience together, because I believe that it was partly through the insistence of David that Paul and Jan started attending church a few years ago and became Christians.

May God bless all of these young people as they further seek to serve our Lord and walk in His ways in the days to come.

Marion Bland

Anniversary

The anniversary of a church is a most important date
Each year in faith remembered and reverently celebrate
A time to praise and thank the Lord for all his mercies shown
To pastors, preachers, children for the joys they all have known

A time to offer prayer and thanks to our dear Lord above
For all His wondrous blessings and His unfailing love
As we look back with gratitude for Christians of this place
Who through the years have worshipped with sincerity and grace

Their memory like a pillar has strengthened faith and prayer
On this 119th anniversary in which we gladly share
Nine candidates baptised on this memorable happy occasion
Their testimonies were perfect, they needed no persuasion

A wondrous praise to our gracious Lord to let all Stanway see
For this sacred friendly precious church the best is yet to be
Dear Lord increase our numbers, so many will come and share
Worship, friendship, singing and all our offered prayer

If we all pray sincerely for grace, joy, peace and love
Blessing will come pouring down from our Lord in heaven above
Like His precious promises that never never end
It will be a sacred bond with our dearest faithful friend

We all need this special friend on this sacred celebration
All praises to His holy name and endless adoration.

Ivy Smith

Special Deliveries

Jean Fisher who has carried out the job for over 30 years of posting the Lighthouse Magazine, and prior to that the Fellowship Focus, to various people, has now decided to hand this over to someone else. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Jean on everyone¹s behalf for this very important role carried out over these years.

Ray and Sharon