Pewsheet & News
AN INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIANITY:
The Emmaus Course for adults who want to explore
the basics of the Christian Faith
For Whom?
This annual course that uses the renowned Emmaus Course material is designed for a range of purposes and people. It is appropriate for those who may have doubts or questions about the Christian faith and who wish to address them. It is ideal for people who wish to prepare for confirmation or who are looking to become more committed as members of the church. And it is very useful for those people who are already regular worshippers, perhaps of many years' standing, but who wish to take a refresher course. The group always works best when this whole spectrum is represented.
What?
The course begins by looking at what evidence there is for God’s existence and then explores the Christian understanding of how God has revealed himself as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. An exploration of the development of the Church leads into exploring what the opportunities and benefits are of practising Christianity today. This includes considering the advantages of prayer, bible reading and worship.
Where and When?
The ten sessions take place at the Vicarage on Thursday evenings, starting on Thursday 8th March, missing out school holidays, and ending on 31st May. We begin at 8.00pm and aim to finish at 9.00pm, when drinks are served for those who want to stay for a chat or to continue the discussion. (Couples can alternate the weeks or ask us for help with baby sitting.)
How to book a place?
Information sheets are available from the Foyer at Church. To book a place, simply complete the booking slip and return it to the Parish Office or the Vicarage. We’d love to see you!
CONFIRMATION 2012
In 2012 Darlington Deanery will again host one large confirmation service. This will probably take place at 6pm on a Saturday evening in June: this is still to be agreed by the Bishop of Durham’s office. Also, we have yet to decide which church in the deanery will host the service.
CONFIRMATION PREPARATION
Confirmation preparation for junior candidates takes place within twelve group sessions, most of which are held on Sunday afternoons from 5pm until 6pm in Church, starting on Sunday, 5th February. We miss out school holidays and bank holiday weekends, resulting in the final session being on Pentecost Sunday, 27th May. In addition to these, we like the candidates to help with the Holy Week Activity for children and also to attend a small number of special acts of worship, such as the Maundy Thursday evening service.
The confirmation preparation course for adults takes the form of the course An Introduction to Christianity. This includes ten group sessions, on Thursday evenings at the Vicarage for an hour from 8pm, followed by coffee and chat for those who can stay. The first meeting of the group is on Thursday, 8th March, with the final one taking place on Thursday 31st May.
For both junior and adult candidates, there is an expectation of regular worship, preferably a communion service. Serious discipleship requires worshipping regularly with other Christians who are also keen to grow in faith. Being with others provides encouragement for us and also an opportunity to encourage others.
Information sheets are still available from Church. If you would like to prepare for confirmation, or to chat about things further, contact John, the Vicar.
Contact Information
Telephone Number: 01325 469891
All Saints and Salutation Church
Ravensdale Road
Blackwell
Darlington, DL3 8DT
How to Find us
From the town centre: Progress along Coniscliffe Road, turn left into Hartford Road and then right into Ravensdale Road. We are on the left (approx 300 yards).