CONTENTS

Rector’s Report Page 3

Curate’s Report Page 4

Warden’s Report Page 7

Treasurer’s Report Page 13

Careforce Report Page 17

Nazarene Student Report Page 19

Worship and Prayer Page 21

Evangelism and Social Action Page 23

Mission Action Prayer (MAP) Page 25

Fellowship and Pastoral Care Page 27

Work Amongst Older People Page 28

Discipleship and Teaching Page 33

Children’s and Youth Work Page 36

John Berry 40 Year Tribute Party Page 41

48
 John Berry Tribute Song - The Revd Dr Rob Munro
(it scans across—to guitar accompaniment ...)
Gather around,
Give him a cheer,
Now John it seems
You’d think that it
In fact the reason
He keeps supplying
And John is really
Providing the
The clergy thought
His plan is to
CHORUS
Now John has been
He’s seen it through
But why call him
His real work
Behind the scenes
What we’ll do
At times the role
So Trish has set up
CHORUS
Now John supports
True Freedom Trust
So why’d he pick
They had to have
And John has helped
His leadership de-
His one regret is
With Rob and Mike
CHORUS
So now John’s time
He’ll still be here
And now there comes
With Trish retired
But reigning back on jobs
It frees him now
To make him serve
Even guilty
CHORUS
2 47
make a big sound for John Berry!
his retirement is near – John Berry!
has almost always been around
must be because he’s really sound!
he’s been here for such a long time:
clergy with a load of wine!
expert at technology,
computers for the church for free!
it great until they heard it said,
replace them with computers instead!
the warden at St.Cuth’s for years,
some joyful times and sometimes tears.
a warden, it’s like jail you see…
is making sure Mike can’t get free!
it’s really John who’s run the show.
without him here I just don’t know.
just drives him mad, it can get grim!
It’s OK Club just for him!
a lot of other work that’s swell.
and TransWorld Radio as well!
TWR & TFT?
three letters and begin with “T”.
the Diocese from time to time.
velopment course has worked out fine!
close to home, his feelings veiled,
it’s clear his ster- ling work has failed!
as warden draws near to its end,
involved of course, a treasured friend.
the biggest challenge of his life
he’ll have to spend time with his wife!
will mean he cannot lose,
to drive his Merc and take his cruise,
these 30 years, it’s quite a crime-
murderers serve less time!
 Rector's Report

To follow ...

46 3
 Curate’s Report The Warden’s Lament
Abraham was old; Jacob insecure; Leah unattrac-
A merry little ditty to the tune of “Forty days and forty
tive; Joseph had been abused; Moses stuttered; nights” To be sung a capella – slowly with monastic
Gideon was poor; Samson co-dependent; Rahab overtones Verse one unison – verses 2-8 tune and bass
immoral; David had had an affair and all kinds of – last verse unison
family problems; Elijah was suicidal; Jeremiah
depressed; Jonah reluctant; Naomi a widow; John
the Baptist eccentric, to say the least; Peter impul- Forty years, that’s two full score,
Careforce, building works and
sive and hot-tempered; Martha worried a lot; the He’s been warden at St C’s
Samaritan woman had had several failed mar- then
Burdened low by many a chore
riages; Zacchaeus was unpopular; Thomas had doubts; Paul had poor health; Lots of new technology
Forced down on replacement
Timothy was timid—a variety of misfits, and God used each of them in his service. Would have broken stronger men
knees.
Rick Warren Purpose Driven Life p.233 Never daunted J L B
God uses ordinary people to do extra-ordinary things. That is the story of Rectors, there have been but three
Deanery synod, PCC
the bible, as is made clear by the above quotation. That is also the story of All knew how things should be
Words to make the brave heart
church, including St Cuthbert’s, as is made clear by this year’s AGM Re- done
quail
port. What a challenge for J B
Notice sheets and CRB
Many a battle lost or won.
All three clauses of my opening sentence are important. Powerpoint that’s bound to fail.

The ordinary people part reminds us that, of ourselves, we are nothing spe- One a canon, one “Your Grace”
All these things and more beside
cial. Sadly it is all too easy to start to attribute to a church a particular Then The Doctor at the end.
Make a warden’s life so tough
character which make us feel good – we are so friendly, so welcoming, so Setting a relentless pace
Looked upon to lead and guide
hard working, so well organised (only joking) etc. These might all be true, ‘nough to drive him round the
When the rest would cry
thank God, but whatever is good about a church is down to God rather than bend.
“Enough!”
to us. The ordinary people part reminds us equally that we can rely on God
to sustain us when our own resources have reached their limit. Ultimately, Many curates, now long gone
John has just gone on and on
we don’t make things happen, He does. That is why, from time to time, it Great experience quickly gained
Rather like our merry song
is good to be tested and stretched, to go beyond our ‘comfort zone’, pre- Then, announced they’re moving
He’s the best, he’s number one,
cisely so that we might know this truth in our experience. on
Th’ warden who can do no wrong!
Just as John had got them trained.
The God uses part reminds us that, although there are parallels between the
church and other organisations and therefore right to expect the church to Then came Mike who broke
conform to certain common standards, for example, in terms of health and the mould
safety, child protection, the proper use of money etc. we must always re- TA padre, hard as nails.
fuse to see the church, as a whole, as comparable to any other organisation, Made our hero feel so old
least of all a business! The way we treat people, relate to money, spend With those texts and long e-
e-mails.

4 45
 our time, deploy our resources, treat our workforce will all be different.
We will bother about those things about which others seem unbothered and
not bother about those things that others seem very bothered.

For all these reasons, as well as considering what we believe as a church –

our foundation – and what we believe the Lord is calling us to do – our vi-
sion – we must therefore also be concerned with those ways of doing
things which make us distinctive – our values. That St Cuthbert’s, like all
churches has a set of distinct values I do not doubt, precisely what they are
needs clarification. This is something that I hope we can work on over fu-
ture months.

Lastly, the extraordinary things part brings us to the report proper. This
year we don’t have the benefit of individual group reports as previously,
something I personally liked though appreciate had become somewhat mo-
notonous hence the change. Nevertheless, even without these reports there
is no question in my mind that God has been at work among us in extraor-
dinary ways with growth and renewal occurring right across the church.
New members, new ministries, new calls to service, new initiatives, new
structures, new projects, new buildings and new enthusiasms and so the list

44 5
goes on. This hand in hand with a continued and vital sense of unity and Sometimes you’ll have to climb the
purpose in spite of our many human differences. For all this may God be ladder to replace a bulb
praised!
The notices needs printing – avoid-
And what of the next twelve months? Watch out for more extraordinary
goings on. Firstly, we will be seeking to establish Messy Church as a ing Mike’s mistakes
monthly service with the aim of making new disciples, young and old At lunches you must take the cash
alike. Secondly, we will be working through our five agreed 2020 Vi- and organise the queue
sion / G-A-P objectives as set out below: when someone’s out of line, all
1. to produce an in depth audit of our ‘Parish’ community with a particular eyes will turn to you
focus on the ‘unchurched’ AND derive from it a considered, prayerful & strategic If they park their car in Cuthbert
response. road – have a small word in their
2. to develop our welcome through running the ‘Everybody Welcome’ course
ear
during the autumn ‘term’ with the aim of involving the whole congregation.
3. develop the spiritual formation of members through a once a month Sunday if washing up needs doing you will
bible memorisation initiative AND a corporate bible reading plan sometime in the have to volunteer
autumn ‘term’, possibly Advent. There are many other duties that
4. pray for mission on a more regular basis by producing a Monday mission
prayer card AND establishing a monthly Mission (UK) prayer meeting to comple- haven’t be set down.
ment the existing M-A-P Mission (World) prayer meeting Such as making sure the curate isn’t
5. consider and, if appropriate, establish a ministry to the divorced and sepa- painting red the town
rated similar to that at HTB / Howell Hill
Whatever that you do, do it smiling
Thirdly, we will hopefully complete major extension and re-furbishment he insists
works at the Old School Nursery at a cost of over £100,000. It sounds like Put that upon the list - ensure it
another bust and exciting year ahead. isn’t missed!

It would not be right to complete this report without personally thanking He has put 'em on the list — he has
every member of St Cuthbert’s for making my work here so enjoyable and
put 'em on the list;
rewarding. In particular, I owe a debt too great to quantify to John Berry
for his friendship and encouragement over the sixteen years we have And they'll none of 'em be missed
worked together as minister and Warden (for more on John see on in this — they'll none of 'em be missed!
report).

Finally, I would like to thank the St Cuthbert’s for the wonderful enlarge-
ment and re-furbishment at No.4 which is so much appreciated by all seven
members of the Newman family.
Mike Newman

6 43
As some day it may happen Straight after the main service ends Warden’s Report
that a victim must be found you’ll have a cheque to sign,
Give speakers their expenses and Just in case you think I have taken last year’s
report and changed a few words hoping that
As some day it may happen that a perhaps a cup of tea you forgot what was written 12 months ago –
victim must be found, The chairs will all need tidying well, I haven’t. This time I look back not just
He’s got a little list — he’s got a and bibles stacked away over the last year but also over the last 40
Don’t lift to many at once – what years that I have been privileged to be the
little list
quasi-warden of St Cuthbert’s. I think Assis-
Of jobs for the church warden, he’s would the doctor say!! tant Warden is really a better title, but the
written them all down original sounds more fun and somehow more
so he know’s they’ll not be appropriate for St C’s! So sit back and either
missed,— they never will be Whenever PCC meet here, you must read on or skip the next few pages.
missed! go and serve the drinks.
There is always time for tea and I have just about forgiven warden Arthur Broadhurst for moving away
from Cheadle in 1970, only a couple of years after Tricia and I joined the
It begins on Sunday morning when cake what ever committee thinks church. But to go back a few years: whilst Tricia was at Sheffield, she
you unlock all the doors There are lots of other people who went to a Christian Medical Fellowship conference, where the speaker was
— try to remember the alarm – the like to have coffee– one Robert Wyse from Salford Royal: Tricia later did his surgical house
neighbours still all snore job as a junior doctor, we were invited to his church, where the husband of
The plasterer, carpetter and one of his previous housemen, one Val Grieve, was the preacher, and Val
You’d better start now working on
plumber to name three. said that we were not to go to St Mary’s but to St Cuthbert’s. So now you
the changes to the slides know who to blame.
Try not to blow the ‘puter up or Whenever there are visitors you
drop the radio mike must offer to be host Actually, I think James Ayre made an inspired and risky choice by asking
And if it is communion you’ll And a case of wine for parties to me to join David Pearlman as warden at St C’s. I say that not because I
need to bring the bread ensure there is a toast think I was brilliant but because I was only 26 at the time and to choose
someone so young was indeed something of a risk. I would like to see us
So put it on the list — it must considering younger men and women for more leadership positions, al-
never, e’er be missed! He's put it on the list — he's put it
though I am also aware that today’s working climate militates against them
. on the list; having much free time. But for me, working alongside David was a great
He's got 'em on the list We must be sure that isn’t help, and we oldies must now learn to stand aside and let the younger ones
— he's got 'em on the list; missed— he wants it on the list! take more responsibility whilst being there to support and advise them. I
don’t mean for the oldies to retire: maybe we need younger men and
And they'll none of 'em be missed
women making more of the decisions for the future and some of us oldies
— they'll none of 'em be missed. helping to implement them? (As I’m an oldie, I can use the word!)
I have also wondered if James Ayre’s other suggestion that if you are good
42 7
at doing something then just carry on doing it was as wise. Doing a job for
a very long time like I have tends to stifle others from thinking they could
possibly take over: but I actually think Andrew Pugh will do a much better
job than I have in the important decision-making areas. He will have the
experienced Lindsay, who has been such a pleasure to work with all these
years working alongside him, and I am sure that the ministry at St C’s will
John Berry
continue to develop as he takes things over from me. And I don’t intend to
go away ... except maybe on the occasional cruise! 40 Years
My forty years has not been a wilderness time, but, I believe, a fruitful
time for St Cuthbert’s. First there was Francis Taylor, then Roger
Tribute
Porthouse, Gerald Gardiner, Walter Drain, Bill Highton, Philip Daniel and
then Mike Newman. Unfortunately for the development of our buildings (I Party
remember draft plans back in Roger’s day) ministers only staying about
four years wasn’t long enough to get a building project off the ground: big
projects really need the consistent leadership of a minister to drive things
forward. So the Major impact of Mike staying (and staying, and stay-
ing ...) for longer than anyone else as a curate in the C of E apart possibly
from Nicky Gumbel of Alpha Course fame, has given us a period of stabil-
ity enabling the building project to eventually blossom. The sterling ef-
forts of Lindsay and the incredible giving of the congregation – that’s you
– has enabled us to have premises much more suited to the mission of our
church in the 21st century. Thank you to all concerned.

Probably the main change over the forty years I have been involved in St
C’s has been the development of new forms of worship. Whilst I person-
ally like much of the 1662 services for private as opposed to congrega-
tional worship (I would chant psalms in plainsong and sing Compline: I
think both are wonderful as choral exercises) it doesn’t seem appropriate
for a mission-minded church trying to help both young and old worship
together, especially with visitors coming in. I always think of it somewhat
like having a baby in the family: we might like sitting down to dinner at
7.30 in the evening, but the baby isn’t ready for this from day one, so we
have to adapt things: we still eat food, but maybe we have to change things
round a bit. We just have to make sure that the baby, like the rest of the
family, gets enough calories etc.
One thing which has struck me in recent years, not particularly at St

8 41
 Cuthbert’s but
around in many
churches is the
apparent unwill-
ingness of some
people to get in-
volved because it
might involve a
regular commit-
ment and some-
times we often
don’t feel quali-
fied for the task.
But were the
twelve disciples
qualified? -
would they have passed a human resources interview for the job Jesus se-
lected them for? I don’t think so! So it is with Christian work: if you see a
need, volunteer, just give it a try. If you really aren’t right for the job
you’ll soon find out, but please don’t be afraid of trying. Just think where
we’d be if the disciples had said “Er, no, I don’t think so, Jesus, it’s just not
me”. Actually it’s not as bad at St C’s as some places, but there’s always
room for improvement!

Retirement is a huge opportunity to give a little back to Christ’s commu-

nity in the church if we have the physical and mental ability to do so, and I
only have to look at the numbers involved in our activities to see how
many are involved at St. C’s. But there’s always room for more ... but let’s
not leave too much to the “old faithfuls” (who aren’t always old, either).
Having just been away for a month, meeting many people on my travels, I
am amazed by the lack of a “Life” that many people seem to have. What
do they actually DO? Tricia and I don’t always tell people what we do be-
cause they probably wouldn’t believe us, and the same is true for many
members of St. C’s.

Another more recent development has been the coming together more of
our two churches. Dear James Ayre fostered a spirit of independence by

40 9
almost ignoring St. C’s unless we wanted to spend money, and there was
little sharing between us and The Other Place. But more recently a spirit
of co-operation has been fostered, allowing us to join together for things
where co-operation is mutually beneficial, but doing things individually
where that is more appropriate, and I think this is a big improvement in our
overall ability to share the Gospel with the people of Cheadle.

Many of you will know another thing that I am passionate about: some- After School Club stuff
thing I picked up from Val Grieve who did this par excellence, and that is
looking after clergy and their families. I know of several broken clergy
marriages, and whilst I am not saying that their churches are responsible
for these, I think it is incumbent (that’s a good word in this context) on us
to respect the clergy by allowing them time off and some space with their
families. I’m not just talking about Mike here: he doesn’t seem to have a
Major problem in taking sensible time off; although I know many ministers
who do, and also many who are not pastored themselves: who pastors the
pastor? Do think of ways in which you can help support those in ministry,
and encourage your friends in other churches to do the same. I try to do it
because Val Grieve did it, and that’s good enough reason for me.

OK, but what about the last twelve months at St Cuthbert’s? There have
been some great things happening, such as the introduction of Messy
Church, but these things bring their own problems: 20% of the people in-
volved doing 80% of the work: time for more oldies to volunteer to help
and encourage the younger ones who have the new ideas? The “It’s OK
Club” is the same, where the initial pool of helpers has dwindled a little,
meaning that there is less scope for the others to have a week off. And the
youth activities are also seriously affected by a lack of helpers: sometimes
all that is needed is for a couple of volunteers just to be there – available if
needed, or maybe just for the children to talk to. Maybe some children
don’t have much adult 1:1 time at home and a friendly “aunty” or “uncle”
figure could be a real blessing to them, even just as an example of good
and caring adult behaviour.

Yes, Messy Church has been great, the debate now is how frequently we
hold them, and how, if at all, they integrate into our regular pattern of other
services. You will all have your views, and we all know from being on a

10 39

After School Club
Here are three contributions from Davy (this page) and Amber (opposite page
and overleaf) which show just what our children think about the hard work
which Paula, Alan, Iain, Mike and all the other helpers put in each week.
I think these three pages say it all!
38
committee that making decisions like this isn’t going to be easy, and isn’t
going to be to everyone’s liking. And the Committee might not get it right
first time. I feel as I did in my business life that we have to be free to ex-
periment a little and not be afraid of making mistakes, and acknowledging
this and changing things that aren’t right.
It’s good to see Mike and his family in a better house than previously:
again, the Major design work owes much to the very practical talents of
Lindsay and excellent work of Rob Walker. Thank you both. Thanks, too,
for someone providing the funds! It means that Mike has a clergy-standard
home to live in after umpteen years, and when he eventually moves, retires
or whatever, at least we have a decent home in which to house a new min-
ister and their family.
Another small milestone has been the change in our posters on the notice-
board. Peter Clarke has done a great job for many years, and Al Rodgers
has now taken over, co-ordinating ideas for designs which are printed by a
local firm. Again, thank you both. Many other acts of service just run
along without any fuss: the flower arranging, home visiting of the sick and
shut-in, the weekly café, the tea and coffee rotas, Club 55+, not to mention
all the youth ministry including Acorns, where there are often 70+ children
in the building as well as parents and carers. Yet again, we have had a lot
of help from Iain as our Care Force worker. There are lots of little kind-
nesses which go unreported (and I’m sure that no-one would want them
reported) which make up the fantastic Christian fellowship we know as St.
C’s.
I could go on for ages about the lovely little church called St. Cuthbert’s: it
means a lot to Tricia and me. I often say to visitors who come to one of
our chaotic all-age services “It’s Church, Jim, but not as you know it” to
mis-quote from Star Trek. Visitors often remark on our friendliness: that’s
partly due to our size (it’s much more difficult in a bigger church like St.
Mary’s) but is mainly due to the people involved in the church. What bet-
ter or easier way is there to demonstrate the love of Jesus in action than by
being friendly in His church?
So thank you for putting up with me for the last forty years. You can’t
11
even try to do a job like being a church warden without the overall support • For a group of young people and leaders who went on the Youth For
of the congregation, and I also thank my Tricia for her amazing support Christ holidays in summer 2009.
over the last 42 and a bit years. I know I have made lots of mistakes, and The continued popularity of Acorns with up to 80 children sometimes in
probably upset some folk along the way: if you are one of them, then I attendance with their parents/carers.
apologise. Sometimes I haven’t always been as cheerful as I could: living
with some degree of depression isn’t easy as many of you know from your Items for prayer
own experience. But overall, whatever I have done right or wrong during
this time, I have tried to do it for the greater good of God’s kingdom and to • Strength and encouragement for all the leaders involved in Children’s
make Jesus better known to the people round us. If I have managed a little and Youth work; that more people will feel called to get involved and that
of that, then I shall be happy. we can develop future leaders.
John Berry • For Messy Church -particularly as events for 2010 are planned; deci-
Something to think about… sions are made as to how often to hold them; for enough helpers at each
from Lindsay event; and for how to take forward the contacts made with the families.
• Guidance in how to meet the ever changing teaching needs of our
St Cuthbert’s is like a swimming youth as they move through their teenage years; how to help them to grow
pool. Look at the picture of the spiritually and engage with church and come to a full relationship with
Lido. You’ll see people not swim- God.
ming at all. Some are lying on sun • The upcoming YFC holidays – that our youth will want to attend and
loungers, watching the people in that they benefit from the teaching and fellowship provided.
the pool. Others are sat on the • For wisdom when dealing with awkward or demanding issues; E.g. If/
side, dipping their feet in but noth-
how to limit numbers at Acorns; discipline amongst teenage boys;
ing more. Some are in the shallow
end, up to their waists in water. That we can continue to deliver sound Bible teaching and encourage our
Some are in the deep end, up to youth to read the Bible for themselves and ask questions; help them to be-
their necks, really involved. come more familiar with Scripture.
Occasionally, people will go
under and start drowning, needing Finally some comments from our Young People telling us what like about
to be rescued. Adventurers:-
“ Reading the Bible” – Liddia
At St Cuthbert’s, where are you? Are you happy to lie on the side, whilst others
do all the work? Are you dipping your feet in, but really should be doing more? “Playing funny games” – Joe
Are you up to your waist or neck, playing your part in God’s strength, to the best “Filling in the Extreme workbooks” – Daniel
of your ability? Are you drowning and should others take some of the weight off
your shoulders?
“Learning about God” – Saskia
“I like the story of Queen Esther” – Emily
Messy Church, a new style of ‘service’ with a new ‘congregation’ will be a sig- “Learning by doing games”- Harry
nificant pull on our people and resources. In a year in which, more than ever, eve-
ryone needs to pull together and play their part – at St Cuthbert’s, where are you? “Making things” - Becky
Lindsay Burrows Kate Cookson
12 37
 Overview of Children’s & Youth Work
As always this has been a busy year for Children’s and Youth Work within
St Cuthbert’s comprising some new ventures and the continuation of many
others. We are blessed to be able to meet so many young people in our
community in such a wide range of ways and the summary below demon-
strates how God is working among them.
Things to thank God for:
• That we have contact with so many young people in our community
through the many varied groups/activities that we run including Acorns,
After School Club, All Stars, Friday Club, Bag of Chips, CY, Messy
Church, Starters & Followers, Adventurers and Covies.
• For the leaders and helpers of these groups who give their time and en-
ergy so faithfully from week to week. We especially give thanks for an-
swered prayer in finding new leaders for All Stars.
• For the success in taking the gospel and “church” to the families of
Cheadle through the Messy Church events which have been oversub-
scribed every time.
• For the enthusiasm and willingness to learn and take part of the young
people.
36
Treasurer’s Report
History….
My first report as treasurer noted that 2003 was the year we turned the corner
managed to get good control over our spending in most areas and towards the end
of the year started to make good progress on increasing income. 2004 saw us pro-
gressing in the right direction, although we still had some way to go, and the tar-
get kept moving onwards. By the end of 2005 , I thought we should stop and take
stock, consolidating our position before “driving” on with renewed vigour. In
2006 however we spent £5600 more than our income and I suggested that we
needed to increase our giving by around £10,000 in 2007 if we were to ensure that
we could continue to run our church as we would like. In fact 2007 saw an in-
crease in giving of £22,000! Surely an answer to prayer. 2008 saw a return to
lower levels of giving, £3,000 lower than expenditure.
We should put the 2009 results against this background of fluctuations in income
and expenditure.
2009….
4 Cuthbert Road
The most significant item of expenditure for 2009 was the rebuilding of 4
Cuthbert road. The entire cost of the rebuild was covered by donations from one
donor, to whom we are extremely grateful. All who have seen the “new” house
must agree that it is now appropriate for its purpose both currently and for many
years to come.
General funds
For most of 2009 it appeared that we were on target for income to exceed expen-
diture by sufficient to allow repayment of building loans from general giving. In-
deed, overall 2009 general giving was around £8,000 higher than in 2008, and this
is reflected in the surplus of £7,544 on general giving and expenditure shown in
the attached accounts.
This surplus does not however give the full picture. Given that most of 4
Cuthbert road was being re-built, we decided that we should delay repayment of
building loans a little to cover some refurbishment of other areas of the house
13
(mainly new carpets) at a total cost of around £3,500. Towards the end of the
year it became clear that the church boilers were becoming too expensive to repair
on a regular basis and we decided that overall it would be better to invest in new
ones, at a cost of around £6000.
These items have increased the value of the property, and so are not recorded as
immediate expenditure. The have however reduced our available general cash
reserves and, allowing for the increased giving and the additional £9,500 of ex-
penditure, our available reserves were reduced by £2,000 to around £14,200. I
believe that this level of reserves is too low long term, and is lower than the
agreed parish policy. We must therefore budget to reverse this reduction in 2010.
Building Fund
£30,500 was donated towards the cost of the new building during the year, and
was used to repay loans. Some loans were in the process of being repaid at the
end of the year, and as I write this, the remaining loans for the building fund total
£94,000. Given the reduction in general reserves discussed above, we were not
able to repay any building loans from these reserves, as we had hoped. Giving to
the building project is expected to start to tail off during the next couple of years
as we reach the end of people’s pledge periods and we hope to supplement these
amounts from general giving (once we have replenished our reserves).
The Future…
As I will be stepping down as Treasurer at the end of April to become a Warden,
the future of the church finances (or at least the computer records of them!) will
lie in Ed Fish’s hands. I can see some difficulties ahead that we will all need to
work together to overcome. Most significantly, it has been agreed in principle that
we should, in the long term, pay the same Parish Share to Chester (via St Mary’s)
that a Parish Church with one member of clergy would pay (adjusted for the fact
we maintain a curate’s house). Given our small size, this will be a challenge,
needing a very significant increase in giving and exposing us to significant risks
of fluctuations of income and expenditure, which we have seen to be very signifi-
cant in past years.
I pray for wisdom for Ed as he guides us through the challenges ahead, and I look
forward to working with him for the benefit of St Cuthbert’s and God’s Kingdom.
Andrew Pugh
14
OTHER COURSES
Last year’s report mentioned our joint Lent Course programme with St
Mary’s, so I won’t repeat myself now. Suffice it to say that we haven’t re-
peated the programme in 2010 in order to free up time and effort for the
“Passion for Life” mission which reached its climax in March 2010. No
doubt, 2011 will see something like the usual Lent programme restored –
but this time in the refurbished Upper Room.
We continue to make use of the wide range of courses and workshops put
on by the Diocese of Chester and others such as the London Institute for
Contemporary Christianity, the Nazarene College and Concordia. Inevita-
bly it’s only a small number of people who will attend any one event but
we do try to make sure information is made available through the notice
sheet and the notice board. Ruth Ormiston and Joyce Barber completed
their diocesan Foundations for Ministry course in summer 2009 and Ruth
has now gone on to train as a Pastoral Worker via the two year diocesan
course. Lisa Perry has taken over from Ruth and Joyce as this year’s St
Cuthbert’s person on the Foundations programme, and is enjoying it tre-
mendously.
HOUSEPARTY
Somehow, John Berry slipped a full report on the April 2009 houseparty
into last year’s report so I won’t cover it again. As John hinted we decided
not to hold a full houseparty in 2010 – partly to avoid it becoming just an
automatic annual event, and partly because venues get booked up so far in
advance that it would have been virtually impossible to find a venue and a
date for 2010. We are planning to return to the Quinta, in the Welsh bor-
ders, in April 2011 and a speaker has already been booked. But then, this is
the 2009 report – not the 2011 one, so I’ll say no more.
Malcolm Winton
35
ables and through his encounters with ordinary people on his way to Jeru-
salem. Sticking with Luke’s authorship we also looked at how Paul related
to different groups of people on one of his missionary journeys. This topic
was chosen with the Spring 2010 “Passion for Life” mission in mind. In
Lent we thought again about the relevance of the Ten Commandments and
over the summer period returned to the Old Testament to learn lessons
from Moses and the Exodus. After Easter and in the run up to Pentecost we
looked at the work of the Holy Spirit

In the evenings we have again continued with teaching largely drawn from
the three Lectionary readings. In Lent, however, we looked at prayer –
learning lessons from Abraham, Moses, Daniel and Peter. As mentioned
elsewhere, we continue to have the much appreciated Prayer Focus ser-
vices every two months; a welcome opportunity to pause, reflect and se-
pend more time in unhurried prayer.

HOME GROUPS

The pattern of midweek groups continues much as before. There are eve-
ning groups on Tuesdays (2) and Thursdays (2), a midday group on
Wednesdays (after the Communion service and soup lunch), and the Moth-
ers and Others Group on Wednesday mornings. Those who attend, do so
regularly and greatly value the fellowship and support they get from the
group – almost as much as (if not more than!) the direct teaching they re-
ceive through studying together. One of the Thursday groups is a new
group in 2009 and it remains difficult to encourage new members to join a
group although they are assured of a warm welcome if they take the
plunge. If you would be interested in at least dipping a toe in the water
have a quiet word with me sometime.

Although the groups usually decide their own programme and pick mate-
rial which is most suited to them we all used the “Passion for Life” study
material in autumn 2009 as we though t about the essential content of the
Gospel, our friends and contacts and our prayers for them.

34 15
 Discipleship & Teaching Overview
In a very real sense everything we do, in and out of church, is part of our
discipleship – whether it’s at work, in the family home or down at the pub.
So this whole report and much else besides, is about our discipleship.
What we seek to do, through our Sunday services and our home and study
groups is to equip ourselves to be better disciples, deepening our own rela-
tionships with Jesus and making Him known in the communities in which
we live.

The Sunday sermon programme is discussed well ahead by the Disciple-

ship and Teaching Working Group with the 2009 programme being agreed
in outline in summer 2008. Following the pattern of recent years our morn-
ing sermons have focussed on one of the four Gospels; and 2009 was the
year of Luke. We looked in particular at Jesus’ teaching through his par-
16 33
 THE BIG READ Careforce Report
The second Monday of the month
is eagerly awaited by the members I am doing about 10 groups a
of The Big Read! week in a wide range of ages.
We look forward to discussing The work has been good and re-
the current book, hearts and minds warding.
aflutter as Mary later delves into the
big box and reveals the next book! A youth group at (High Lane) for
This has been another interest- High School year 7 - 10 (1st - 3rd
ing year. Once again, we read a
year)
range of books which were usually
enjoyable, often challenging and FUSION A children's Group 7-
occasionally somewhat bizarre. 10 years old at St John’s Church,
In the first category, we all enjoyed "The Invisible Wall" by
Harry Bernstein. This described the author's Jewish up-
Cheadle Heath. This group is
bringing in Stockport. This invisible wall referred to the un- good and it gives a short bible
seen, but very real, barrier between the Jews on one side of the teaching to the children and we
street and the Christians on the other. Local history really came play lots of games. (lacking in
alive and we looked at maps for places mentioned in the book, numbers)
some of which still exist. Many of us went on to read the sequel
which described the author's later life in America. ACORNS, A mother/father and
"My Name was Judas", a novel by CKStead was the most tots group. meets every Tuesday morning from 10:30-12 noon. This is a
challenging for me, but this was very thought-provoking as we great group if you are a mum, when I am there I drift around and if Clare
could imagine how Judas might have viewed the events in Je- the leader needs a hand with anything I am there to step in. I have now also
sus' life. been able to help to get all the songs on to Power Point and control the mi-
The most bizarre book was probably "Then We Came To
crophone so everyone can hear her during the songs and short story.
the End" by Joshua Ferris in which workers in a Chicago office
had to "walk Spanish down the Hall", which meant they were Bag of Chips A group for High School youth year 10+ (3rd year) We
being let go. One worker could not accept this and returned to meet on a Tuesday Evening to talk about life and Jesus in some shape or
work in a terrifying clown suit! Only Judy (the guest of honour at
the Christmas party) and I enjoyed this "comic" novel - never
form and eat lots of unhealthy food! These guys are non church raised but
mind. most have always gone to groups in St Cuthbert’s. They could be called
Most of us discovered a "new" author this year. Patrick trouble makers, but at that age almost every guy is. So we sit down and
Gale's "Friendly Fire" was a highlight for most of us. chat as well as try and play a couple of games with them.
Many thanks go to Mary for all the organisa-
tion. This includes cajoling different people to draw up a short It’s Ok club A group for anyone with depression or other mental health
list, carting heavy boxes around, researching the current book problems - or none! It is a place to go if you need confidence within your-
and author and leading our discussions so expertly. self and it’s a calm and friendly environment. It meets Wednesday at 2
pm. When I am there I move around and set up the Wii and just chat and
Irene Singleton

32 17
have fun with the people who go. It is fun and enjoyable and I always Club 55+
have a good time.
I joined the 55+ Club when it was formed. At this time there were approximately
Allstars Is a group for years 5-6 on Wednesday at 6:30 and it’s a good 15 members of which the ladies greatly outnumbered the men. Today, April
group to have fun, do craft and games. I am also responsible for 10 min 2010 we have about 30 to 35 members, the ladies still outnumbering the men.
talk. When I am there, I set up the computer games try my best to keep the Sometimes the men go big-time and reach seven members!
talk exciting and as relevant as I can while always bringing it back to the
bible. It is really good and the craft always goes down well. At the time the Club was formed, there was a variety of games to get involved in,
table tennis, billiards, various board games and a television monitor for quiz
After School Club For year 1-4 Similar to Allstars, but with younger
games.
children. A good bible Story and a work sheet. It meets Thursdays at 3:30
pm. When I am there I move around as well and am always ready to step in All the meetings are regularly well attended, and to this end the Club was and
and try my best to sort a problem. I also am responsible for the odd talk still is a good success, and can be used as an avenue into the church as well as
and have fun playing games with everyone. serving a good social need.
C.Y. Is a meeting place for Years 7-9 and we meet on Thursday at 5 pm David Harrison
and talk, eat and have a bible study. Is a good group for girls who long to
learn more about Jesus and the bible and how do deal with things in life.
They want to grow, but myself and the other leaders seek to guide them.
C.I.S.T. Is a Christian Union that meets in the local High school once a
week on Friday mornings & lunch breaks when we chat and talk about the
Bible. The group is growing more and more and the members always have
good Questions. Me and other leaders have a box and we are working
through the questions placed in it week by week. These allow the kids to
grow within themselves and get closer to God.
Friday Club Is a Club that meets 7:30 pm on a Friday night for years 7-9
where we build relationships with young people and make them feel at
home in a church environment. Again I move around and chat and have
been responsible for 2 games evenings, one of which was with another
church. They enjoyed it and hopefully it has built a bridge between the
churches even more.
In my time at the church I have also led a couple of services and preached
a couple of times too. This has helped me grow as a pastoral leader and it
is an honour to have these chances.
Here is a snap taken at an outing to Chirk Castle, with
Iain Stevenson Hilary Drinkwater, Club 55+ leader extraordinaire, front right.

18 31
ternoon was spent Line Dancing with Lawrie, Wendy and friends. This was great Nazarene Student Report
fun for both the dancers and non-dancers. Those who danced were slightly pink
and in need of a drink – cup of tea, that is! Everyone was in a very happy mood,
laughter and smiles all around the room.

Thursday 6th August. The morning started with an excellent sing-a-long with
Steve Brown. Irene, his wife, then gave a short talk about their work in Man-
chester with groups including the homeless and ex-offenders. After lunch there
was a celebration of favourite hymns and their stories with Mel and Vera
MacLeod, which was followed by a talk from Revd. Mike Newman “Why I am an
Anglican”. This was preceded with a short video of Frankie Vaughan singing his
1983 classic “Stockport”.

The last moments of Holiday Club 2009 were captured with a group photograph.

A big thanks to Mary Perry, who delivered a great programme of events and to
Anne Rankin who provided excellent catering over the 4 days.
We are all looking forward to Holiday Club 2010.
Gerry Erlam
I have finally made it to the end of my degree in Theology: Youth Work
and Ministry, just the exams to go and final marks to get back before I
know if I have actually passed. Prayer on this score would be gratefully
received

It does not seem like I have been here for 3 years but, on some level
it does and what a great 3 years it has been. I have grown in confidence,
ability and also within myself. I have learnt a lot when it comes to acade-
mia but also I have learnt a lot about myself, my abilities, my weaknesses
and also my ability as a youth worker, in many settings.

St Cuthbert’s has been a great place to learn and practice what I am

learning at college and I will greatly miss it when I move on in August but
I will look back on my time here with fondness and it will definitely re-
main a highlight of my life. the greatest point of my learning and develop-
ment during my placement here was and still continues to be, CY? the
Thursday evening Bible study and discipleship group for 11-14 year olds.
This group has gone from strength to strength and still continues to go

30 19
well, however, it will soon come to an end and I hope that the steady group
of 5 girls will have something to move on to and be involved in. I hope that
they will remember a lot of what we have learnt and looked at together
within the group, if nothing else I hope they take away the massive amount
of love that God has for them and also that, no matter what, God is always
there guiding them. I feel very privileged to have been charged with the
task of developing something for this group of girls and I shall miss them a
great deal, I hope and pray that they stay strong in God and continue on
their journey with him, be assured that I shall keep them in my prayers. I
thought it would be good to round off this section about CY? with some
comments from the girls as it is their group after all and its success can
only be attributed to their keeping coming and getting involved.
So, some comments from the girls; “Understand the Bible stories and what
they mean in real life and a great place to go, with people who appreciate
you and there is always someone to listen to you” another of the girls said,
“It’s one of the things I look forward to each week, it’s like a fun way of
learning- if that’s even possible! Well, in this case it is! And the Bible is
more understandable!” and the last comment to finish it off, “The meetings
have been very helpful to us all. We can get help with our problems either
by talking through them or by looking to see what the Bible says.” One
final comment from me, thank-you girls!
I have made some great friends here at St Cuthbert’s and I hope and
pray that they will continue for many years to come. I will continue to be
praying and thinking of all the work and the people at this church during
my gap year in Scotland and who knows, I might even come back for the
odd visit.
I would like to thank-you all for the love and support that you have
shown me over the last 3 years, it has often been the light during some dif-
ficult and stressful times.
With love and blessings, Zoe
20
give thanks for, our older members in two special ways. – Our Sunday ser-
vice on July 25th will honour God’s love for older people. And later in the
year, on October 20th, we shall be holding a day’s conference when we
celebrate Age, and share experiences, ideas and resources for working with
older people.
Just as younger people are more that just “the church of tomorrow”, so
older people are not, in any way, just “the church of yesterday”. In other
words, we are, all of us, together, the church of Today! - So let’s grow,
and learn, and show God’s love together, - regardless of our age in years.
Mary Perry
The Fourth Annual Holiday Club
Monday 3rd August – Thursday 6th August
The Holiday Club 2009 was a great success, attracting approximately 30 people
each day. The programme offered a range of classes and workshops delivered
by supporters of St. Cuthbert’s Church. Each morning began at 10 am with tea
and biscuits and concluded with tea and cake at 3 pm, and somehow we man-
aged to squeeze in lunch in between.
Monday 3rd August. The first day began with a Beetle Drive, which enabled peo-
ple to get to know each other as they changed tables and made their way round
the room. The afternoon carried on the same theme with board games, another
way to get the groups to interact with each other. A lot of fun and laughter was
had by all and by the second day most of the group knew each other’s names.
Tuesday 4th August. The day started with flower arranging with Alison
Newsome. This was a real treat with Alison producing some beautiful flower
displays. When we had finished admiring the displays we were encouraged to
do a small arrangement of our own. Everyone enjoyed this and took their efforts
home with them. The afternoon was a magic afternoon with Lawrie Adam – and
his small assistant Harry, his grandson. Lawrie kept the audience spellbound and
amused, while his apprentice played his part brilliantly.
Wednesday 5th August. Jean Ellison and her daughters Joanne and Kate organ-
ised a wonderful morning of crafts. We were cutting, sticking, threading beads
and making cards. Time passed by quickly and then lunch was upon us. The af-
29
helping the families to decide whether a baptism or a thanksgiving service
would be more appropriate. A card is sent on the anniversary of the ser-
vice for three years and then an invitation and information is sent out about
Sunday School.
Once again I want to thank all those members of St C’s who contact me
when they know of a need amongst our members, this information is so
important in keeping me aware of help that is needed.
The houseparty at the Quinta was a great success, giving members of St
Cuthbert’s time to get to know one another in a more leisurely fashion and
another houseparty is being planned for 2011.
Please pray for the various pastoral teams as they visit people, that we will
be loving and sensitive to those we meet and reflect our Lord in all that we
say and do.
Liz Duxbury
Work Amongst Older People
Some words of St. Augustine (354-430 AD), which sound as relevant to-
day as they were when first written:
“The new is not behind us. It is ahead of us, no matter how old we
are. We must be careful not to let “oldness” take over our lives. We
must grow and make progress ... Let us not age in a way that makes
us become old spiritually. Let “newness” grow in us.”
This year at St Cuthbert’s we older members aim to celebrate our age, in
various ways. We’ll enjoy our regular Club 55+ meetings, and attendance
at mid-week Communion and lunch. We’ll have fun during our Holiday at
Home week in August. We’ll participate in all the adult clubs and activi-
ties – In Stitches, Men’s Breakfast, Café, Big Read, Home Groups etc..
We’ll continue to help in various ways with clubs and activities for
younger people. And, of course, we’ll learn and grow as we participate in
worship. – But this year, in addition to all these, we plan to celebrate, and
28
Worship & Prayer
Overview
We are fortunate at St C’s in
having so many talented musi-
cians who give their time and
energy not only during our ser-
vices, but in the unseen hours of
planning and practice. We are
fortunate too in the variety of
musical styles, from the celebratory to the reflective, and in the singing of
our occasional choirs as well as those who often lead our singing.
If the morning service is sometimes exuberant, whether through the music
or Mike setting off coca-cola fountains, then the evening service is always
quiet and reflective, especially for the bi-monthly Prayer Focus services.
During the last year, the Prayer Focus slots have included Prayer Laby-
rinths – creating a path round church with a variety of stations providing
opportunities for quiet thought and prayer.
The most recent, at Easter, was open for several days and gave us the
chance to reflect on and deepen our understanding of the Easter Story. To
see a crown of thorns, to taste wine vinegar, to handle nails gives us an ex-
perience that words cannot match.
Not only did people from St C’s take advantage of the opportunity, but also
many from outside.
At the risk of treading on the territory of the Children and Youth report, it
is impossible not to mention Messy Church. While this has been an un-
doubted success as an occasional event, it is potentially ‘another service’ to
be treated like our regular morning and evening services, not just a bolt on
extra. We as a whole church need to understand the opportunities and de-
mands that would be placed on us and to prayerfully consider the future
shape of our services to meet the needs of the changing world that we
serve.
21
Prayer, as always, is a mixture of highs and lows. Highs in the number of
people leading prayer in our services, in the large number in prayer part-
nerships, in the prayer time of house groups; lows in our inability to meet
for prayer. The Prayer Room continues to be open for prayer from 10:00 to
10:20 on Sunday mornings – on a good Sunday there may be five. Why not
come and join us rather than sitting in church or standing in the foyer, it is
a good opportunity to commit our services and the week ahead to God.
This year has seen the start of a monthly Monday Morning time of prayer
focussed on the mission of our church; if you around during the day then
this could be for you.
Finally our appreciation to all those who contribute to the flowers which
enables the 5 strong flower team to add colour and beauty to our church
week by week.
Phil Newsome
22
Fellowship & Pastoral Care Overview
There is never a shortage of pastoral work and the last 12 months have
been no exception. Sadly it has been a year when we have said ‘Au
revoir’ to so many friends from our fellowship – Au revoir because we
know we will meet them again in Heaven. During August 2009 alone we
had funerals for so many members of our congregation, it was a privilege
to know these people and to be alongside their friends and families at this
sad and difficult time.
Alison Newsome does an amazing job in caring for the bereaved by keep-
ing in contact with them by cards, phone calls and visits and I know this
care is very much appreciated.
I am very grateful, as always, for those on the pastoral care team who visit
the housebound and the sick and for the contact we have with the café and
Club 55+ through our team members. I am delighted to welcome Peter
Clark on to the visiting team and it is good to know that Ruth Ormiston,
who will be licensed as a Pastoral Worker in 2011, will be joining us also.
Kay Buckwright and Pauline McDonald visit families where a baptism has
been requested, going to see the family beforehand, giving them leaflets,
27
OUR PARTNERS IN CAMBODIA (O.M.F.)
Paul and Grace returned to the U.K. for Grace to have her second child,
Sally was born here on the 3rd July. It was good to have them come and
speak in church.
Paul’s work, teaching architecture at the University in Phnom Penh, is
steadily increasing and so is Grace’s contact with mothers and children
who live near their home, she is also involved with Sunday school teaching
at their church.
CROSSLINKS
In September Tim Houghton came and spoke at the morning service. We
are looking forward to having up to date news about Dean and Paula
Finnie and their two boys when John and Trish Berry return from their
South African visit.
We have heard about the work of TEARFUND once again when Keith
Harris spoke in church in the autumn. WE have also agreed to support a
TEARFUND water relief project from our reserve to the tune of £1000
We were able to give financially to help Nick and Gilly Hall for their work
with KAIROS MEDIA.
The Christians in Central Asia face opposition to their work in Sri Lanka.
Becky is a school chaplain and Shemil teaches blind children.
At Christmas as usual we sent our “Card Money” to the Bible Land’s Soci-
ety and this time it went to “The Spafford Children’s Centre”in Jerusulem
a centre caring for Arab children and babies who need specialist medical
care.
May we continue to do our part in spreading God’s Kingdom overseas.
Dorothy Wilkinson
26
Evangelism & Social Action Overview
As ever, St Cuthbert’s continues to be involved of lots of activities as part
of our efforts to carry out the Great Commission. In an attempt to cover
the main points, we’ll work in alphabetical order.
Which means that Alpha has to come first…. We’ve continued to run Al-
pha courses throughout the year and these courses have been great oppor-
tunities for those involved to get to know people better and get to know
more about the Christian faith. Everyone who heard Dave & Jane Stirling
speak in church a few weeks’ back about Alpha will know of the impor-
tance that the course has.
Door to Door visiting continues, blessing those who visit and those who
are visited. As ever, more volunteers would be welcome…
It’s OK continues to thrive and we thank God for the opportunity this gives
us to reach out to some of the more vulnerable members of our community.
It might feel like a lifetime ago, but it’s only a year since we started run-
ning Messy Church – a fantastic opportunity to invite children and families
to come and join us and get involved in something that’s hopefully com-
pletely accessible to non-church folk. A huge thank-you to all our helpers,
who make them such wonderful events. We hope you’ll still be keen to
help when we’re running them every month! To encourage the helpers –
and let those who aren’t involved see how much Messy is appreciated –
23
here are just a couple of the messages we’ve had after the events: Mission Action Prayer (MAP)
Dear Messy Church team,

Having attended Messy Harvest and Messy Advent with my 2 and a

half year old, I'd just like to say a huge THANK YOU to you all! We both
thoroughly enjoyed all of the activities today and the tea was also en-
joyed by us both. He didn't stop telling me how much he enjoyed it
from the minute we left until he fell asleep!

We now live in Offerton and still travel to St Cuthbert's every Tuesday

as we just love the group and the welcome we receive from Clare and
the team every week.

We really appreciate all of the hard work and organisation that are so
obviously involved in these events :)

Thank-you again,
Clare

Just a quick "Thank You" to all those involved in organising and run-
ning the Messy Advent event. Maddie and I had a fantastic time and
we're amazed by all the great activities. So much hard work had obvi-
ously gone into it all and it was greatly appreciated.
With kind regards,
Jane and Maddie
Passion for Life – during March, both St C’s and St M’s took part in a
range of events as part of the A Passion for Life mission. Very large num-
bers of ladies got to eat chocolate in the name of evangelism and the men
got to eat large quantities of both Indian and Chinese food for the same no-
ble purpose. Lots more events during the month gave people the chance to
invite their friends along to hear the Christian message put across in a vari-
ety of ways.
With thanks to all the members of the Evangelism and Social Action
Group – Mike Newman, Tricia Berry, Lindsey Campbell, Al Rogers &
Andy McCormick (mainly in spirit because of working away in Bracknell)
who give of their time and effort to help St Cuthbert’s move forward with
its original aim - of being a Mission Church.
Catherine Johnson
24
Our latest partner—the Message Eden Bus Project
Our small group met in July and November (February had to be cancelled
due to weather conditions). At the end of February we did support the
Latin Fiesta the S.A.M.S Roadshow organised by Richard Croft and help-
ers. Sadly Richard has recently left his work as travelling secretary for
SAMS. It was held at All Hallows and was a great success, it was good to
have a telephone link with our own missionary partners Paul and Sarah
Tester in Lima, Peru.
C.M.S. The Church Missionary Society, has merged with SAMS The
South American Missionary Society this year. The Testers have said it
will not make any difference to their work. We look forward to their im-
minent visit.
Paul is busy with work amongst the young people and Sarah with “El
Arca” the children’s bus ministry.
25