Churches together in West Bridgford comprises of 15 local churches meeting four times a year to look at how we can make a difference and be effective in the community around us. At the last meeting I attended 17^th September 2002, 18 of us were present, representing the individual churches. There was a real feeling of unity and God’s presence among us. We divided into three groups…

• As a follow up to the youth Alpha course, the youth leaders in West Bridgford got together and set up youth celebrations on the first Sunday of every month, the next being the 3^rd November 2002 at 8.00pm – 9.30pm; venue West Bridgford Baptist Church Hall. It is aimed at those of 13+ years of age. It is a great opportunity to reach out to friends and to find out who the Christians are in their local schools.
• St Luke’s church are looking at a mentoring scheme with Rushcliffe School with the hope that other churches will come on board. This is link time with young people, with the church, police and school coming together.
• It was suggested that there ought to be ‘outreach-workers’ visiting the young people on the streets and places where they hang out. The aim would be to make friends and find out what young people want instead of hoping they will come into the youth groups. This too, is part of my vision for the community and excites me.
• The need to help and encourage our youth in West Bridgford to develop their gifting and get involved in the local was discussed.

• Training for children’s workers has already been initiated.
• Parenting courses
• Marion Crawford – West Bridgford Methodist Church. has been asked to set up groups for those with learning difficulties. A group has been set up for young people. The vision is for an adult one.
• Input into Cheshire Homes was discussed
• Easter Idea – for the croquet lawn West Bridgford-an exhibition of visual aids to walk in and out of posing questions. Are you on a journey? Where are you on that journey? Was it an accident that you are here? The aim is to view humanity to make people think about life and where Easter fits in.
• It was discussed that we could also join in with the ‘Lark in the Park’ event, either corporately or as individual churches doing something – piggy-backing onto an already planned event.
• It was stated that the borough was launching a Borough Plan and have been told to work with the churches.
• Holiday Clubs were discussed.
• The asylum centre, if it happens at Newton will need people to get involved.

• It was thought we need to make more of already existing events i.e. The Week of Prayer.
• It was suggested that we identify places that need prayer and go to them and pray i.e. the police station, Compton Acres Shops…
• A diary of prayer was considered a useful tool.
• The meeting with the police was said to be very positive now held first Saturday every month proceeded by breakfast and worship. (See leaflet) subjects for prayer to include policing issues, family and youth.

The next meeting will be held on the 3^rd February 2003 at St Paul’s church – 7.30pm. However, there will be work groups for each of the above three areas before that date. Sunday 26^th January 2003 is homeless Sunday and it has been proposed that we should have a united service at the Friary Church.

Other existing concerns that the churches are involved in include the friary drop in centre and the arches. For further details ask Pauline. I believe whole-heartedly that the church in West Bridgford is on the move. How can you get involved?

Pauline Dye
Communications Officer,
West Bridgford Pentecostal Church.