Thursday 29 May 2014

15-16 March 2014 A weekend in Bangor

Penrallt Baptist Church
On a beautiful Friday afternoon in March, Roger, Caroline, Helen, Amy and Miriam travelled to Bangor in North West Wales for a Worship Works weekend.  CMM had been invited to the area by Deb Stammers and Penrallt Baptist Church.

On Saturday morning we gathered at the church, and held the day for a group which included a number of musicians and worshippers from Penrallt, as well as representatives from quite a few other churches in the area.  It was a good number, and they engaged well with the topics covered.  It was also great to have the pastor, Peter, as part of the group.

Roger led the first plenary on 'The Worship Seeker', and then Helen led the second on 'Praise in the local church'.  After an amazing lunch of soup, bread, cheese, fruit and cake, we divided into two workshops.  Helen led a planning and leading praise workshop, while Roger focused on creative and prophetic worship.  The final plenary of the day was centred on the themes from the tabernacle - entering the gates with thanksgiving, coming into the courts with praise, and then entering the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus.

Helen with Deb
It was an exciting day, and nicely finished off with a curry at Deb's house.

On Sunday we were priviledged to take part in both services at the church.  We were joined by a drummer and a bassist, which was great fun.  The morning service had about 120 people present, including loads of children.  Helen led the service (including the song Super Saviour!) and Roger spoke about Jehoshaphat and the power of praise.  We shared a number of words of knowledge in the service (including one in Welsh) and God really moved in hearts and lives.

After an afternoon resting Helen preached at the evening service, and we were joined by a different drummer and bassist!  This service was very different, and the congregation of about 70 included at least 40 students.  After the service there was a faith cafe which included yet more amazing soup, cheese, bread and cake.  One of the students shared a bit of his story before Helen sang a couple of Jars of Clay songs.  It was a good evening.

Huge thanks to Deb and all at Penrallt - and particularly our hosts - Peter and Susan, Sarah, and Paul and Elaine.

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