Annette Stuart is a Roofbreaker at the Countess Free Church, Ely. Below, she provides us with information about this important initiative.

What’s a Roofbreaker?

A Roofbreaker is a church disability champion, who chats to disabled or chronically ill people in the congregation about any barriers to them accessing church life, and feeling wholly part of the church community.

The Roofbreaker scheme is an initiative run by a Christian disability charity, Through the Roof (TTR). The name comes from the account of the paralysed man in Luke 5. Annette first heard about the charity through the Rich Tea Community Group, for adults with learning disabilities, that she helps with at Ely.

TTR wants all churches to catch the vision for disability inclusion. Below is some information about what they do, and why it matters.

 

Breaking down barriers for church disability inclusion

The last recorded survey suggests only 5-10% of disabled people hear the gospel in their lifetime (Lausanne Committee for World Evangelisation).

In the UK it is estimated there are 16 million disabled people who do not benefit from God’s love through belonging to a church community. (Family Resources Survey, 2021-22). TTR is working with churches to ensure that everyone’s presence and gifts are valued.

One example is Laurie, who uses a wheelchair and an assistive device to communicate. Laurie’s church welcomed and encouraged him to take an active role in church life, which has been hugely beneficial. Laurie said, 'I am writing magazines, helping out with a special needs group, emailing prayers and talks of services and helping with social media'.

Everyone has unique God-given gifts to share.

Who are Through the Roof?

Members of Through the Roof are passionate about disability inclusion in Christian life. Their mission is to transform lives through Jesus with disabled people. For 25 years the charity has been:

Enabling Faith: Equipping churches and Roofbreakers (local disability champions) to empower disabled people to participate and belong in Christian life.

Bringing Freedom: ‘Wheels for the World’ provides wheelchairs and bibles for disabled people in developing nations where 90% of those needing a wheelchair do not have one.

Sharing Fellowship: Christian-focused accessible holidays, retreats and groups bring fun and friendships for everyone. Through the Roof provides free resources, training and support to local churches to fulfil the great commission to – and through – disabled people.

The Roofbreaker project equips volunteers in local churches and ministries to act as disability champions – listening and responding to the challenges disabled people face, enabling them to use their gifts and talents to serve as equal members of Christ’s body: the church.

Are churches fully including disabled people - and disability aware?

In the UK, over 20% of the population are disabled people (Family Resources Survey, 2021-22).

Not all disabilities are visible, but disabled people are still underrepresented in UK churches – especially in positions of responsibility.

Fiona MacMillan, disability advisor in the Church of England and herself a disabled person, says, ‘We are more likely to be known by our needs than celebrated for our gifts’.

Through the roof can help your church or ministry to welcome and value disabled people more fully

They offer:

Free two hour Zoom Disability Awareness workshop for churches who appoint a disability champion or Roofbreaker.

Access to a free downloadable ‘Church Toolkit’ and ‘Removing Barriers' church accessibility audit, available to all Roofbreaker disability champions.

50% discount on Through the Roof resources to all church Roofbreaker champions.

Advice and support from one of three Regional Roofbreaker Co-ordinators covering the whole of the UK, to encourage disability inclusion in all churches.

Support through monthly emails, events, Facebook and Roofbreaker Networks.

 

For more information visit the Through the Roof website or check out @TTRChangesLives on social media.

All of our Connexion churches are community spirited and in light of this Wormley Free Church is running a Conversation Cafe on Fridays between 1pm and 2pm.

Converation Cafe is a free, informal group for those who speak English as a second language and would welcome the opportunity to practice conversation.

The group is open to people of all backgrounds - and of all abilities!

To find out more visit their website page: Conversation Cafe

About Wormley Free Church

Wormley Free Church is a lively, growing, diverse church of all ages, based in Wormley, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire. They hold services every Sunday at 10.30am, which are recorded in live stream. As well as Conversation Cafe, they run a number of groups and events which are designed to meet the needs and interests of their community.

 

Image by pikisuperstar on Freepik

Joe Gregory, President of The Connexion was delighted to be invited to preach at the Induction Service for Trevor Jones as the new Pastor at Sheppey Evangelical Church, following his retirement from Sheppey last year. 

The service was led by Andrew Higgins, who was joined by David Lockett, Chair of The Connexion Trustees and Bethany Burrage, Trustee and Pastor at Rosedale Community Church. 

Trevor spoke powerfully about his call to lead the church and his journey as Pastor so far. Like many of the great people in the Bible who were chosen by God, he wrestled with the Lord before agreeing to be the next Pastor of SEC. The key thing that the Lord made clear to him is that He would be with him, he would not be alone in his ministry. Trevor shared how all the practical details have been sorted out by God even though he still has to work for 4 days a week as a carpenter. 'The Lord has been changing me and my heart is for you', proclaimed Trevor in his moving address.

Trevor's wife, Julie, who is a prison officer and mother, also spoke with great honesty and humour about the challenges of now being the Pastor’s wife. Julie encouraged the church by saying that she recognised that there were people with gifts in the church and God was getting people ready to move out. She concluded with 1 Thessalonians 5:11, 'Encourage one another and build each other up'.

As Chair of the Trustees, David Lockett carried out the formal Induction part of the service, asking Trevor to acknowledge his call to ministry before God and before the congregation. In turn the congregation promised to pray for and support Trevor as Pastor. Duly inducted, spontaneous applause broke out in the crowded church!

Trustee, Bethany Burrage, who had travelled down from Hertfordshire, led the congregation in an impressive Spirit-filled prayer over Trevor and Julie, and greetings from other Connexion churches were heard before singing 'The Goodness of God'.

Joe Gregory, who has been a friend of Trevor for many years, preached on Jeremiah 1:4-10, which outlines the account of the Lord calling Jeremiah into His service, focusing particularly on verse 5, 'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart'.

Joe emphasised how crucial it is that the local church members affirm and encourage Trevor and Julie. Adding that it’s worth remembering that all of our Pastors and Ministers in The Connexion need prayer and practical support with additional prayer for their families, concluding, 'It’s incredible how one or two encouraging words make such a difference. Say nice things, don’t just think them!'

Our lovely Voice editor, Esther Burrage, was inspired to research and write about tattoos after listening to a talk at The Connexion Conference, where they were named under the heading of ‘A Crisis of Culture’. As a young person who gained her first tattoos over the past couple of years, Esther decided to ponder on her reasons for engraving her skin.

Tattoo History

Tattoos have a long and detailed history, with evidence of them being used from over three thousand years ago. That history has included pagan rituals, cultural status symbols, labels of deviance, memories of events, and so much more. In modern times, the tattoo has been used in so many different contexts that some might argue that their significance has been forgotten and anyone can get one for any reason – or even for no reason at all.

What does the Bible say about tattoos?

The only real mention of tattoos in the Bible comes from Leviticus 19:28: “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.” Now this is pretty condemning for tattoos, but let’s break it down. The command God gives to not wear a tattoo comes in the same command as not participating in another ritual ‘for the dead’. As we have already mentioned, tattoos have been used in these pagan or occult rituals over time, but this is not the sole way in which tattoos have been used, and it certainly didn’t inspire any of the other ways, since travelling across the land of different cultures and religions was no easy feat in those days. The Vikings didn’t learn the practice from the Amazonian tribes, nineteenth century urban gangs weren’t inspired by seventeenth century pilgrims to the Holy Land.

The art of tattooing has popped up all over the world, for the most part with little connection to each other. I was speaking to my tattoo artist and she told me that the most popular reasons her clients get tattoos is either because it means something personal to them, such as a memory of a loved one or symbol of a journey they have made, or simply for no other reason except that they found a design they liked and wanted it to turn their skin into a work of art. In this case, it’s the motivation of getting a tattoo that gives it meaning, not the action – because the action simply can’t be claimed by anyone.

A Quick Question

Let me ask you a question… Men, raise your hand if you’ve ever trimmed your beard. Okay, you can put your hand down, but if you ever “clip off the edges of your beard” then you have disobeyed the command the Lord makes just one verse before tattoos are mentioned. These are laws which time has allowed to be interpreted differently across the denominations of Christianity – they even have different interpretations within the Bible itself. Take Isaiah 44:5, for example: “Some will say, ‘I belong to the Lord’, others will call themselves by the name of Jacob; still others will write on their hand, ‘The Lord’s,’ and will take the name Israel.” This verse might be referencing getting a tattoo as a symbol of worshipping God, and it says that this is okay. So, in the same way that we couldn’t bow to a false god and would only bow to the one God, we shouldn’t get a tattoo for a false god but can get one for the one God.

Every view is different

I’m sure that as you read this article you’re wondering when I’ll bring up the big verse: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honour God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. I titled this article as ‘A view of tattoos´ because there are simply so many views and opinions that none can truly be condemned and none can truly be called correct. There is no one answer to whether as Christians we should all love tattoos or hate them. It has always been the interpretation of tattoos that has given them their significance throughout history – from them being seen as labels of deviancy, to power, to devotion. If your personal view is that getting a tattoo would not be honouring God with your body, then obviously there is no need to feel you have to get one.

If, however, you believe that getting a tattoo reflects the artistic beauty of the world and does honour God, then go for it! That’s what I did when I started getting my own, and the cross on my arm reminds me every day of how close God is to my heart; just as wearing my cross necklace does. This verse in 1 Corinthians reminds us that we should live for our maker and use our bodies to honour him, and as long as you do that and keep God at the centre, you will not be letting him down.

Esther's Conclusion

Throughout my research I found many contrasting views about how tattoos can be seen as a part of a ‘crisis’, but the main issue seemed to be how some people believe that tattoo shouldn’t have to have to any meaning at all, whereas others believe they are losing their meaning through an increase in accessibility and destigmatisation. I questioned myself after learning about these views, wondering whether I had been drawn into the trap of wanting a tattoo for no reason and thus dishonoured God in doing so, but my conclusion has been that my motive was not contrary to Christianity. Though I’ve always known that some people don’t approve or agree with tattoos, I’ve found that my decision reflects who I am as a young person, finding my own ideas and still following God with all my heart. But I am interested in what you think – do you have tattoos? What meaning do you give to them, if any? Do you believe tattoos can honour God, or should we strictly follow the rules in Leviticus...?

Mortimer West End Chapel are holding a special Week of Seeking God from Monday 8 to Sunday 14 January. During the week, church members will come together to pray for guidance for the New Year and how the church can best fulfil His work.

Schedule for the week

MORNINGS - Prayer & Reading on Zoom, 6-7am, Monday to Friday. (Zoom: 732 7350 3336, MWEC).

NOON - Worship in the Chapel from Noon-1pm, Monday to Friday.

EVENINGS - Prayer & Reading in the Chapel, 7-9pm, Monday to Friday. The evening sessions on Monday, Wednesday and Friday will be Zoomed. (Zoom: 732 7350 3336, MWEC).

24 HOURS - Prayer in the Chapel from Friday 12 January. 7pm The kick-off will be on Friday from 7-9pm, followed by 11 two-hour sessions, ending at 7pm Saturday 13 January.

 

Purpose

To draw near to God individually and as a Chapel Family.

To give space to listen to God and room for Him to work in our hearts.

To receive wisdom, revelation and direction regarding how to best carry out His mission this year, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

To find out more about Mortimer West End Chapel visit their website

Simon Allaby, Connexion Trustee and Minister at Bolney Village Chapel, will be appearing on 'Today with J.John' Premieres on 31 December at 7pm.

They will be talking about Simon's evangelistic passion for sharing his faith through the art of storytelling.

Simon writes stories on a regular basis, which appear on his Turn-the-Page website, and he also creates a 60 second message for our Short Thought link each week.

Click on the YouTube link below to see the interview:

Today with J.John

To access some of Simon's stories go to his website:

Turn-the-Page Stories

Simon Allaby’s Advent book What are You Waiting For? is now available to order. 

The book contains 25 stories exploring the meaning of Advent and Christmas.

It is a great stocking filler, a perfect giveaway for friends and family - and to have available at Christmas services.

To Order

The book is priced at £1.50 per copy.

For more information and to order visit Simon's Turn the Page Online Shop

William McCann, has enjoyed settling into his new role as Elder at The Chapel, Mortimer West End, joining the team with John Moate and Tony Derrett.

William is originally from New York, has been in the UK for three years working with Bromley Town Church, in London with his wife Clare and their four young girls. In response to much prayer, The Chapel received clear guidance from God about the direction they should take for the church, and William is excited to be a part of this. The Chapel’s culture is firmly embedded in the Word and the Holy Spirit, centred on relationships with Jesus and each other. 

Read below, William's latest update (24 October):

Staying positive in a negative world

Someone has forgotten to tell the Cosmos and Nasturtiums in our garden that winter is around the corner. Maybe global warming or they are just late starters. The Cosmos is budding the Nasturtiums are growing out of … the grating by the back door! So, it's not only a late starter but it's also growing against the odds too!

I know how they feel. I'm a late starter and at times it looked like I didn't know where I was going. It's just taken a wee while for what has been deposited in me to work a way out through as I follow the Lord and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said it was good that He goes away and now I know why. It was so you and I could have the Holy Spirit and He would lead into all truth.

We are all 'a work in progress' and I know I won't be a fully completed work until I meet my Messiah face to face. Meanwhile, at least I can enjoy the journey and it's getting better by the day. Am I allowed to enjoy being a Christian? To be part of a brilliant church which is only going to get better with a great and diverse leadership team of equals at the helm?  Of course, we will need to be on our guard against pride but I don't think we need to sweat about it. Just keep our eyes on Jesus who is more real than the world we see around us.

The world is a very negative place but we don't need to be like that. Paul the apostle is our example of positivity. He'd been scourged 5x39 times by the Jews, 3x beaten with rods, 1x stoned and left for dead (but got up again!), 3x shipwrecked, a day and night adrift at sea, etc. etc. Yet he could say he did not faint and even though his outward man was perishing his inner man was being renewed day by day and all his troubles were but a temporary 'light affliction'! Why? He was looking at that which was unseen, rather than what he saw with his natural eyes. He had his eyes on what is eternal. He was imagining what lied ahead and the rewards that awaited him in heaven. That's how we too can be positive in a negative world.

William McCann

The Chapel has also been busy planning events and activities for the coming weeks:

31 October - Light Party for Kids and Youth
4 November - Bonfire Night
10 November - Ladies Paint and Sip Night
12 November - Remembrance Sunday
9 December - Wreath Making Workshop
16 December - Turkey Burger, Reindeer trail and Carols by the Fire

To find out more about these events and The Chapel services, which can be joined via Zoom, click here to visit their website.

 

 

World Relief is a global Christian humanitarian organisation whose mission is to empower the local church to serve the most vulnerable. The organisation was founded in the aftermath of World War II to respond to the urgent humanitarian needs of war-torn Europe. Since then, for over 75 years, across 100 countries, World Relief has partnered with local churches and communities to develop sustainable, locally-driven solutions to some of our world’s greatest problems.

World Relief asks us to join them in prayer for Israel and Gaza

'On Saturday morning, the world awoke to news of a deadly attack on Israel by Palestinian militant group, Hamas. Escalating violence has killed or injured thousands and an unknown number have been abducted — reportedly including the elderly, women and children. The UN has condemned attacks on civilians and hostage-taking, warning of an “extremely dire” humanitarian situation in Gaza and calling for Israel to allow humanitarian aid into the region.

'We are heartbroken and shocked by the devastating violence and loss of life in Israel and Gaza. Will you join us as we  pray for peace and for all those suffering through this worsening humanitarian crisis?'

 

Prayer

Lord, You said “Peace, be still,” and the storm was stilled. 

We confess that at times, we feel overwhelmed by the storm. But today, we lift our eyes to you—the Maker of heaven and earth. And we ask for a miracle…let your peace fill Israel and Gaza. 

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

God, let violence cease in the region. Let there be no more bloodshed. We know your heart breaks for those killed and those left behind—for the orphaned child, the injured elderly, those abducted and families desperate for safety. Lord, speak into this crisis. 

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

We pray for those who have lost loved ones. Let your peace and love wash over them. Please protect and provide for those who have been abducted and bring them home safely. Let them be reunited with their loved ones–let them feel the comfort of their embrace.

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

God, we pray that you open doors that allow food, essentials and medical supplies to reach those in need.  May first responders be able to rescue the injured, comfort the grieving and help rebuild many lives. 

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

God, we pray for your peace and reconciliation to overcome conflict. We ask that you give wisdom and discernment to  our global leaders and those in positions of power who have the ability to impact the course of this war. Help us to be bold advocates and agents of peace in our own communities.

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

We pray for people scattered around the globe whose friends and family members have been caught in the crisis. We know you are with them. Help us to express your love to those affected in our communities, churches and workplaces.     

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

Lord, we raise Israel and Gaza to you, and pray for those suffering. We ask that you provide peace in this crisis, and protection and comfort for all those who have been impacted. 

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

Amen

This information and prayer was sourced from the World Relief website: https://worldrelief.org/blog-prayer-for-israel-and-gaza/

A special Church Meeting was held at Hailsham Gospel Mission (HGM) on Saturday 23 September to appoint Dave Sweetman and Martin Brown as Elders of the church.

Rev Simon Allaby, one of The Connexion trustees, was in attendance and conducted a short service, at the end of which the new Elders were anointed with oil, with the church family gathered round, laying hands, and praying for God’s blessing on them.

This is a very exciting next step for the church, which is full of life and vision and seeking to reach out to those around.

It is a joy to see the physical improvements to the building with lots of new decoration and the foyer being transformed into a café area.

From Thursday 5 October the church will be open every Thursday and Friday morning, providing free refreshments and a warm welcome to all who wish to come.

We pray that God will continue to bless Dave and Martin, and provide a bright new future for HGM.