Shelley Dring – Moortown Baptist Church

Shelley’s news for week beginning Sunday 15th of March

March 14, 2026 by Shelley Dring

Dear friends

Here’s what’s coming up…

Sunday 15^th March 11am Service all together. Exploring God through John’s eyes: feeding the five thousand (John 6:1-14) There is a Sunday school during the main talk so that our younger friends can explore the story creatively together. We’ll also share communion.

In the evening Rock Solid youth groups meet in church building. All youth welcome! Talk to Martyn, Ruth, Val, Nathan 7-8pm

Sunday 22^nd March 11am Exploring God through John’s eyes; perfume and Palm Sunday (John 12: 1-19) There is a Sunday school during the message so that our younger friends can explore the story creatively together.

In the evening Rock Solid youth groups meet in church building. All youth welcome! Talk to Martyn, Ruth, Val, Nathan 7-8pm

Monday 16^th March 10-12 Beacon warm welcome café for all. Food pantry available.

Tuesday 17^th March Stepping Stones for under-fives and their parents and carers.

Tuesday 17^th March in the afternoon, house group in church. See Howard D or Lesley for more information.

Wednesday 18^th March Lunch Club for those booked on and the volunteer team. Talk to Rachel B for more information.

Wednesday 18^th March House Group in the Music Room at 7.30pm carrying on with Zechariah. Speak to Andy or Ruth or Shelley/Lesley for more information.

Thursday 19^th March Craft group warm welcome space. All welcome to come along and chat or to make something or learn a new skill.

Thursday 19^th March Bible Study in the Music Room 7.00pm – 9.00pm Speak to Gareth, John C or Lesley

Friday 20^th March Bible Study in the Music Room 10.00 – 11.00am exploring Ephesians. Speak to Shelley for more information.

Friday 20^th March Parkinson’s Exercise Class in the church building 6.30 – 7.30pm Speak to Phil Commons or Lesley for more information

Friday 20^th March House group at 8pm in Adel. See Jonathan, Hilary, Steve or Helen.

Every Sunday a small group meet together to pray, about 10.40am in the music room, for Sunday morning and all that is involved. All welcome to join in prayer.

Lazarus group meet to pray after the Sunday service for half an hour in the corner room. This is for men and John C is your contact

We are looking forward to welcoming new members at Easter and celebrating a baptism!

If you’d like to know about membership and joining them then do ask one of us.

Thinking about being baptised but not sure what to do next? Come and talk to me tomorrow or send me a message this week (or ask Lesley to pass on a message and I’ll get back asap!)

If you would like to know more about any of the groups, getting involved, giving resource/money to support the work at MBC and in its community do ask a deacon, a group leader or myself or send a message to Lesley.

Looking ahead…

On the 25^th March we have..

Wednesday worship 1.30-2.00 in the music room. Come and join others to sing, pray, share and gather together.

And in the evening…

The ‘Create your own psalm group’ meet (last Wednesday of the month) in the music room at 7pm. All welcome even if you haven’t been before, materials provided, come and have a go in a relaxing space. Be guided with ideas and then have freedom to explore. No experience needed. Speak to Krys or Cas.

Friday 27^th March Funeral and Thanksgiving service for the life of Audrey Elise Cooper (Steve’s mother) at 1.30pm. Audrey used to be in the lunch club at Moortown. If you can help with welcoming friends and family on that day, please let me or Lesley know.

Saturday 28^th March Creative workshop We are very pleased to welcome Liz Pattinson to lead us in a couple of hours of reflection before we enter Holy Week. Liz, a retired art teacher of many years who loves encouraging people to be creative, will be leading people into a time of reflection and creative activity. Liz attends Leeds Vineyard Church and over the last 3 years has been leading a group called “Creating with God”.

The art session will be centred on Holy Week, the last 7 days that Jesus Christ was on the earth. His entry into Jerusalem, the last supper, His crucifixion and resurrection.

There are a wealth of images and symbols, which can be used either realistically or in an abstract way. Materials will be provided and no previous artistic experience required.

When: Saturday 28th March 1:30pm – 3:30pm

Where: Sanctuary, Moortown Baptist Church, 204 King Lane, Moortown, Leeds

What: Come relax, contemplate and be creative as we step into Holy Week

Who: Everyone welcome, whatever age – young, middle or mature!!!

Please book your place by emailing Lesley on admin@moortownbaptistchurch.org.uk as places are limited to 20.

Young children please bring an adult

Wednesday 1^st April Space to worship together with songs and silence. You can draw, write, pray, read, move or just be. 7.30pm – 9.30pm in the Sanctuary. Come for all or part of this. Talk to Andy B, Ruth or Shelley for more info.

Friday 3^rd April Good Friday Service 10-10.45 in the church building.

Friday 3^rd April Good Friday Half an hour open-air service on Alwoodley Green at 2.30pm joining with other local churches and those who want to pop by. We’ll be by the park. Please bring a fold up chair if you would prefer to sit down.

Sunday 5^th April Easter café church with Baptism, membership and refreshments for all starting at 11am. With Easter treats and breakfast pastries, fruit and drinks. If you can bring a cake to share then can you let Karen or Lesley know please. Thankyou

Tuesday 7^th April Deacons meeting and Shelley 7.30pm in the church

Sunday 12^th April 11am service. We welcome friends and leaders of churches in Romania who have relationship with us here in Moortown, as they share worship, prayer, stories and time with us.

Monday 13^th April 10-12am Easter Beacon café with easter themed craft and snacks

Thursday 16^th April Free women and girls self-defence class funded as part of the mayor of West Yorkshire’s Safer Communities Fund and Leeds City Council Inner North Community Committee with Leeds Jewish Housing Association.1pm-5pm in the sports hall.

See the link here on Instagram To book please contact Lesley or go directly to enquiries@blossom-uk.co.uk Please look at our website about a previous workshop.. Be Well and Be Strong… self defence for women and girls. – Moortown Baptist Church

Sunday 19^th April 11-12 We welcome Helen Harris, Director of Fundraising and Communications for the Baptist Missionary Society to share stories of God at work worldwide in our service.

Sunday 3^rd May 11am Cafe church

Sunday 24^th May Pentecost Sunday service at 11am.

Whole Church meeting dates…

Tuesday 12^th May (deacons elections), Sunday 5^th July (after church) Tuesday 22^nd September (AGM), Tuesday 10^th November.

Please do pray and ask people who you sense God is prompting you about being a Deacon for the next season of church.

Claire T is looking to arrange an Easter café eggstravanza on Saturday 4^th April between 10 and 12am. If you are interested in helping or finding out more please get in touch with her or contact Lesley and she will pass on a message.

Some of the operational team having been working to paint walls and fix areas of the church. We are really grateful for all they do. If you notice something or would like to help with any of this do let Karen know. Also, we have one off things happening around the building, ares of tidying etc, if you have a spare hour you’d be really welcome to come along and help.

Around the city…

North Church are hosting ‘Care for the Family’ on Wednesday 18^th March called ‘Tweens and Teens: what every parent needs to know’ Book a ticket at the link here Tweens and Teens: What every parent needs to know – Leeds Tickets, Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 7:30 PM | Eventbrite

Prayer for Leeds on Saturday 21st March 9:30am and 6pm. This will be hosted by/held at Bridge Community Church. More information coming soon. For more information follow the link here Day of Prayer for Leeds – Network Leeds

Global Day of Prayer will take place at Leeds Minster (Kirkgate, LS2 7DJ) on Pentecost Sunday, 24th May, 6pm – 8pm. A flyer will follow shortly

One of our mission partners, Mark Hotchkin is having a heart operation on Monday 16^th March. Please pray for him and Andrea. If all goes well, they are hoping to return to their work in Bardai Chad in 6 weeks, after the operation.

Do check out the website for all the latest news and stories. We are sharing prayers for the middle east, lent and our community on facebook. If you want to join with others to pray or share then do let me know and we can help.

“Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believethat Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” (John 20:30-31)

Shelley

Shelley Dring

Minister

Moortown Baptist Church

Shelley’s news for week commencing 8th March

March 7, 2026 by Shelley Dring

Dear friends

Here is the week ahead, we’d love to see you.

Sunday 8^th March 11am Service all together. Exploring God through John’s eyes; The healing by the Pool (John 5:1-15) There is a Sunday school during the message so that our younger friends can explore the story creatively together.

In the evening Rock Solid youth groups meet in church building. All youth welcome! Talk to Martyn, Ruth, Val, Nathan 7-8pm

Monday 9^th March 10-12 Beacon warm welcome café for all. Food pantry available.

Tuesday 10^th March Stepping Stones for under-fives and their parents and carers.

Tuesday 10^th March in the afternoon, house group in church. See Howard D or Lesley for more information.

Tuesday 10^th March Deacons meeting and Shelley 7.30pm in the church building.

Wednesday 11^th March Lunch Club for those booked on and the volunteer team. Talk to Rachel B for more information.

Wednesday 11^th March House Group in the Music Room at 7.30pm carrying on with Zechariah. Speak to Andy or Ruth or Shelley/Lesley for more information.

Thursday 12^th March Craft group warm welcome space. All welcome to come along and chat or to make something or learn a new skill.

Thursday 12^th March Bible Study in the Music Room 7.00pm – 9.00pm Speak to Gareth, John C or Lesley

Friday 13^th March Bible Study in the Music Room 10.00 – 11.00am exploring Ephesians. Speak to Shelley for more information.

Friday 13^th March Parkinson’s Exercise Class in the church building 6.30 – 7.30pm Speak to Phil Commons or Lesley for more information

Friday 13^th March House group at 8pm in Adel. See Jonathan, Hilary, Steve or Helen.

In the evening Rock Solid youth groups meet in church building. All youth welcome! Talk to Martyn, Ruth, Val, Nathan 7-8pm

Every Sunday a small group meet together to pray for Sunday morning and all that is involved. They meet about 10.40 in the music room. It includes the musicians and often those who pray or lead but it is open to anyone who would like to support in prayer.

A few of the men in church are meeting to share and pray after church for half an hour or so over the next couple of weeks. They are looking at how they can encourage men in the church and beyond the building and it’s starting with prayer. Following last Sunday’s service they named themselves the Lazarus group. If there are other men who want to join, then turn up after the service in the corner room or chat to John C.

We are looking forward to welcoming new members at Easter. If you’d like to know about membership and joining them then do ask one of us.

Also are you thinking about being baptised but not sure what to do next? Come and talk to me tomorrow or send me a message this week (or ask Lesley to pass on a message and I’ll get back asap!)

Looking ahead…

On the 25^th March we have..

Wednesday worship 1.30-2.00 in the music room. Come and join others to sing, pray, share and gather together.

And in the evening…

The ‘Create your own psalm group’ meet (always the last Wednesday of the month) in the music room at 7pm. All welcome even if you haven’t been before, materials provided, come and have a go in a relaxing space. You will be guided with ideas and then have freedom to explore. No experience needed. Speak to Krys or Cas.

Saturday 28^th March Creative workshop We are very pleased to welcome Liz Pattinson to lead us in a couple of hours of reflection before we enter Holy Week. Liz, a retired art teacher of many years who loves encouraging people to be creative, will be leading people into a time of reflection and creative activity. Liz attends Leeds Vineyard Church and over the last 3 years has been leading a group called “Creating with God”.

The art session will be centred on reflecting on Holy Week, the last 7 days that Jesus Christ was on the earth. His entry into Jerusalem, the last supper, His crucifixion and resurrection.

There are a wealth of images and symbols, which can be used either realistically or in an abstract way. Materials will be provided and no previous artistic experience required.

When: Saturday 28th March 1:30pm – 3:30pm

Where: Sanctuary, Moortown Baptist Church, 204 King Lane, Moortown, Leeds

What: Come relax, contemplate and be creative as we step into Holy Week

Who: Everyone welcome, whatever age – young, middle or mature!!!

Please book your place by emailing Lesley on admin@moortownbaptistchurch.org.uk as places are limited to 20.

Young children please bring an adult

We are still finalising Holy week and Easter but so far, we know…

Friday 3^rd April Good Friday Service 10-10.45 in the church building.

Then a half an hour open-air service on Alwoodley Green at 2.30pm joining with other local churches. We’ll be by the park. It was good to worship outside and have the opportunity for others who wouldn’t usually come into a church building to join and hear. Please bring your own fold up chair if you would prefer to sit down. Last year we made crosses out of seed paper to give out. Of you would like to help with that or have any other ideas then do let me know before Thursday.

Sunday 5^th April Easter café church for all starting at 11am. With Easter treats and breakfast pastries, fruit and drinks.

Sunday 12^th April 11-12 We welcome friends and leaders of churches in Romania who have relationship with us here in Moortown, as they share worship, prayer, stories and time with us over a few days.

Sunday 19^th April 11-12 We welcome Helen Harris, Director of Fundraising and Communications for the Baptist Missionary Society to share stories of God at work worldwide in our service.

Sunday 3^rd May 11am Cafe church

Sunday 24^th May Pentecost Sunday service at 11am.

We had great feedback from all those who went to the free women’s half day self-defence class last Sunday organised with our local community. Funded as part of the mayor of West Yorkshire’s Safer Communities Fund and Leeds City Council Inner North Community Committee with Leeds Jewish Housing Association. Its for women and girls of all ages.

See the link here Instagram Many in the group asked if we could maybe have a full day session (this will be a weekend in June) so we are looking at dates! In the meantime, there is another half-day session on 16^th April, 1pm – 5pm. To book please contact Lesley or go directly to enquiries@blossom-uk.co.uk Please look at our website about last Sunday.. Be Well and Be Strong… self defence for women and girls. – Moortown Baptist Church

Around the city…

North Church are hosting ‘Care for the Family’ on Wednesday 18^th March called ‘Tweens and Teens: what every parent needs to know’ Book a ticket at the link here Tweens and Teens: What every parent needs to know – Leeds Tickets, Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 7:30 PM | Eventbrite

Prayer for Leeds on Saturday 21st March 9:30am and 6pm. This will be hosted by/held at Bridge Community Church. More information coming soon. For more information follow the link here Day of Prayer for Leeds – Network Leeds

Global Day of Prayer will take place at Leeds Minster (Kirkgate, LS2 7DJ) on Pentecost Sunday, 24th May, 6pm – 8pm. A flyer will follow shortly

Do check out the website for all the latest news and stories. We are sharing prayers for the middle east, lent and our community on facebook. If you want to join with others to pray or share then do let me know and we can help.

“Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believethat Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” (John 20:30-31)

Shelley

Shelley Dring

Minister

Moortown Baptist Church

Shelley’s news for week commencing 22 February

February 28, 2026February 19, 2026 by Shelley Dring

Dear friends

Here’s what’s coming up…

Sunday 22^nd February 11 o clock Service and a group to explore the theme in Sunday school. ‘God in John’ John 2:1-12: The first sign!

Rock Solid youth take a break this week, back on 1^st March.

Monday 23^rd February 10-12 Beacon warm welcome café for all. Food pantry available.

Tuesday 24^th February Stepping Stones for under-fives and their parents and carers.

Tuesday 24^th Whole church meeting at 7.30pm! Come and spend some time in sung worship, prayer, hearing about some of the ministries at Moortown and sharing in what is going on, where we feel God is calling us and making some decisions for the new year. Zoom link for those unable to be in the building will be emailed out on the day. Only those with their camera on will be able to make a vote on zoom. Look forward to seeing you there.

Wednesday 25^th February Lunch Club for those booked on and the volunteer team. Talk to Rachel B for more information. Last week we didn’t have a lunch club, instead we showed a film and it was great to see so many come together to watch ‘Cool Runnings’.

Wednesday 25^th February 1.30-2pm Wednesday worship with songs, reading, a message and a time to pray and share.

Wednesday 25^th February ‘Create your own psalm art workshop’ in the music room based on the theme ‘fear and faith’ starting at 7pm. All welcome, materials provided, come and play in a relaxing space. You will be guided with ideas and then have as much freedom as you would like to explore. No experience needed. Speak to Krys or Cas.

Wednesday 25^th February Wednesday evening House Group in the Music Room is postponed this week until the week after when they carry on with Zechariah. Speak to Andy or Ruth for more information.

Thursday 26^th February Craft group warm welcome space. All welcome to come along and chat or to make something or learn a new skill.

Thursday 26^th February Bible Study in the Music Room 7.00pm – 9.00pm Speak to Gareth, John C or Lesley

Friday 27^th February Bible Study in the Music Room 10.00 – 11.00am exploring Ephesians. Speak to Shelley for more information.

Friday 27^th February Parkinson’s Exercise Class in the church building 6.30 – 7.30pm Speak to Phil Commons or Lesley for more information

Friday 27^th February House group at 8pm in Adel. See Jonathan, Hilary, Steve or Helen.

Sunday 1^st March Café church with breakfast pastries, fruit and drinks. We welcome artists Rev David Hawkins and Pippa Hale who are leading on an arts project called Blanket in collaboration with Leeds Art Gallery, Yorkshire Sculpture Park and St George’s Crypt. It’s described as a ‘bold compassionate sculpture sending a message of hope in a fractured world.’ All ages welcome, with creative activities to for all ages. ‘God in John: the sign of Lazarus’.

Sunday 1^st March Rock Solid youth groups meet in church building. Come and share and bring your ideas. Talk to Martyn, Ruth, Val, Nathan or Adam. 7-8pm

Looking ahead,,,

Mission group meet Tuesday 3rd March at 2.45-4pm in the church building. Do get in touch with Roger, Phil C or myself for more information.

If you would like to know more about any of the groups, helping with something, about membership or baptisms then do get in touch with myself, a deacon or Lesley, who will pass on a message and arrange a time to get together.

Around the city… North Church are hosting ‘Care for the Family’ on Wednesday 18^th March called ‘Tweens and Teens: what every parent needs to know’ Book a ticket at the link here Tweens and Teens: What every parent needs to know – Leeds Tickets, Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 7:30 PM | Eventbrite

There will be a Day of Prayer for the City of Leeds on Saturday 21st March with provisional times being between 9:30am and 6pm. This will be hosted by/held at Bridge Community Church. More information coming soon.

Lent..

Please see last week’s email about resources that may help you or your group journey through Lent. If you missed it, contact Lesley to have it resent or have a look on the website here Shelley’s news for week commencing 15th February – Moortown Baptist Church

Thank you to one of you for my printed Leeds Lent prayer diary! If you would like a copy, follow this link Look back at the Leeds Lent Prayer Diary Launch – Network Leeds The diary can be emailed to you or there maybe some paper copies left to send out.

We are looking at some lent sessions where we can explore some of the topics coming up in relation to whole life worship and God in John (our next Sunday theme) We’ll keep you updated. If you have an idea about something you could share or offer with others in Lent then please get in touch with me or Lesley and we’ll get back to you. You may lead a group that is taking a specific focus in Lent that others could join in on then do let us know. Please put the date of 28^th March in your diary for now as we are looking to offer a creative workshop as we begin holy week.

Terefe’s travels..

Terefe is leaving for Calais on Sunday 22^nd February to share food and clothing and if opportunity allows, the good news of Jesus with refugees and migrants living in temporary accommodation. He has asked for your prayers. Please bring any last bits of clothing tomorrow morning as he will be in church to pick this up. If you can give money to support his work, we can give you the bank details so do get in touch with Lesley, myself of Terefe. His number is available if you contact admin@moortownbaptistchurch.org.uk or give us a call.

Do check out the website for all the latest news and stories including news of free self-defence classes, a blog by Haddon on whole life worship and the Lords Prayer, news of Krys and Bela’s recent Sri Lanka trip, latest updates from Chris, Bela and Radio worldwide and 60 years of MAF (Mission Aviation Fellowship) and their work with BMS.

If you can recommend Moortown Baptist Church to others and have a google account you can now leave the church a google review to help others know a bit about us. Click on this link: https://g.page/r/CVLP3hdGjyinEAE/review

Or scan the QR code using the camera on your mobile phone:

Finally..

London Institute of Contemporary Christianity who seek to encourage people to be ‘Whole life Worshippers’ have just released a new bible to encourage everyone in whole life worship. It’s called the Everyday Faith Bible and you can find out why they developed it, how to use it and where you can order one by clicking on this link Everyday Faith Bible | LICC

In Christ

Shelley

Shelley Dring

Minister

Moortown Baptist Church

Shelley’s news for week commencing 15th February

February 14, 2026 by Shelley Dring

Here’s what’s coming up…

Sunday 15^th February 11 o clock Service with communion and a group to explore the theme in Sunday school. ‘Whole Life Worship’ Acts 8:26-40 ‘Being good news in a distracted world’.

Rock Solid youth meet 7-8pm in the building for a half term social night with take-out pizza’s!

Monday 16^th February 10-12 Beacon warm welcome café for all. Food pantry available.

Tuesday 17^th February Stepping Stones for under five’s and their parents and carer’s has a rest this week for half term.

Tuesday 17^th February House Group in the Music Room 12.30 – 2.30 speak to Howard Dews

Wednesday 18^th February Lunch Club has a break this week in half term. Instead, we are showing the film ‘Cool Runnings’ to link in with the Winter Olympics! It’s the story of a Jamaican bob sleigh team at a previous winter Olympics (PG rating) Open to all, free and there will be choc ices in the interval.

Wednesday 18^th February House Group Music Room 7.30 – 9.30pm Speak to Andy or Ruth for more information.

Thursday 19^th February Craft group warm welcome space. All welcome to come along and chat or to make something or learn a new skill.

Thursday 19^th February The funeral of Joan Gardner, who used to come to Moortown Baptist Church, takes place at 11.00am at The Immaculate Heart of Mary Church on Harrogate Road. All those who would like to go to the service to remember and thank God for Joan’s life are welcome.

Thursday 19^th February Bible Study in the Music Room 7.00pm – 9.00pm Speak to Gareth, John C or Lesley

Friday 20^th February Bible Study in the Music Room 10.00 – 11.00am Speak to Shelley for more information.

Friday 20^th February Parkinson’s Exercise Class in the church building 6.30 – 7.30pm Speak to Phil Commons or Lesley for more information

Friday 20^th February House group at 8pm in Adel. See Jonathan, Hilary, Steve or Helen.

Sunday 22^nd February Service together 11.00 – 12.00pm with a Sunday school exploring the same theme.

Sunday 22^nd February Rock Solid youth groups have a break this week.

Looking ahead..

Tuesday February 24th 7.30pm Whole Church meeting. All welcome. The agenda came out last Wednesday and includes some sharing on the life of the church, budget priorities for the year and how we might put into place what God is sharing with us at Moortown.

Wednesday February 25th 1.30-2pm Wednesday Worship All welcome for this short service of word, prayer, song and sharing.

Sunday 1st March is Café church with breakfast pastries, fruit and drinks. We welcome artists Rev David Hawkins and Pippa Hale who are leading on an arts project called Blanket in collaboration with Leeds Art Gallery, Yorkshire Sculpture Park and St George’s Crypt. It’s described as a ‘bold compassionate sculpture sending a message of hope in a fractured world.’ All ages welcome, with creative activities to for all ages

Mission group meet Tuesday 3rd March at 2.45-4pm in the church building. Do get in touch if you want more information.

Around the city…

There will be a Day of Prayer for the City of Leeds on Saturday 21st March with provisional times being between 9:30am and 6pm. This will be hosted by/held at Bridge Community Church. More information coming soon.

If you would like to know more about any of the groups, about membership or baptism then do get in touch with myself, a deacon or Lesley, who will pass on a message and arrange a time to get together.

Lent..

Beginning on Ash Wednesday and lasting for 40 days, Lent is a season of reflection, refocusing our lives and preparation for Easter. We’ll be finding out more about God, relationships and Jesus through the gospel of John during Lent in our Sunday services. We recommend you read through or listen to the gospel of John yourself during this time.

There are also a number of lent resources out there. Here are a few..

40 Acts is a 40-day generosity challenge – building habits, deepening faith and reflecting the heart of Jesus through everyday acts.

Each day offers a simple invitation to give, bless, and grow in generosity – one act at a time. There is an app and wall chart to help and resources for all ages! Click here 40acts: Do Lent generously

The Church of England have a lent programme called ‘Draw near’ with everyday reflections in a book and on an app depending on the format you prefer. There are reflections and booklets for children too. Click here Draw Near

Lectio 365 app by 24/7 prayer have a lent series called ‘Landscapes of Lent’ remembering the death of Jesus and celebrating the resurrection of Jesus on the theme of Wilderness. Click here Lent and Easter Prayers – 24-7 Prayer International

Book recommendations for Lent..

Dancing to the Heartbeat of God by the Anglican communion, forward by Sarah Mullally

Meeting God in John by David Ford

Wardrobes and Rings: Through Lenten Lands with the Inklings by Julia Golding and Malcolm Guite

Let me go there: The Spirit of Lent by Paula Gooder

Finally..

If you can recommend Moortown Baptist Church to others and have a google account you can now leave the church a google review to help others know a bit about us. Click on this link:

https://g.page/r/CVLP3hdGjyinEAE/review

Or scan the QR code using the camera on your mobile phone:

Do check out the website for all the latest news and stories.

And for Valentines Day..

Write on a green heart or make green hearts in creative way to photograph with a message to your local politician to let them know whats important in your community and what you hope for. Find out your local politician here and for more information click on Show the Love this February – The Climate Coalition Use the hashtag #ShowTheLove2026 on social media.

“Personal messages remind decision-makers that behind every policy choice are real people, real places, and real pride in where we live. The project is organised by the Climate Coalition”.

Finally, a reminder why we are able to love…

1 John 4:19 “We love because he first loved us”.

In Christ

Shelley

Shelley Dring

Minister

Moortown Baptist Church

Shelley’s news. Week commencing 8th February

February 8, 2026February 8, 2026 by Shelley Dring

Dear friends

Today we continue with our Whole Life Worship series. If you missed any sessions, you can find them again on our YouTube channel, just look for Moortown Baptist Church. So far, we have looked at money, work, friendships and today we consider mind, body and soul with a focus on our soul. We’ll start at 11am with a Sunday school group for our younger friends exploring the same theme creatively during the service.

Rock Solid youth groups meet 7-8pm in the building. Do ask if you want more information on any of the groups. The older group are continuing to explore youth Alpha materials and the younger group are using some resources by Rock Solid.

The week ahead..

Monday 9th February 10-12 Beacon warm welcome café for all. Food pantry available.

Tuesday 10th February Stepping Stones For the under 5’s and their parents and carers 10.00 – 11.30am (speak to Diane or Hilary if interested)

Tuesday 10^th February House Group in the Music Room 12.30 – 2.30 speak to Howard Dews

Tuesday 10^th February at 7.30 Deacons and Shelley meet in church building.

Wednesday 11^th February Lunch Club 10.15am – 1.15pm Speak to Rachel or Lesley if you want more information as you need to be booked on.

Wednesday 11^th February House Group Music Room 7.30 – 9.30pm Speak to Andy or Ruth for more information.

Thursday 12^th February Craft group warm welcome space. All welcome to come along and chat or to make something or learn a new skill. Contact Karen if you want to know more. Thankyou to those who have stepped forward to help lead when Karen has been unavailable.

Thursday 12^th February Bible Study in the Music Room 7.00pm – 9.00pm Speak to Gareth, John C or Lesley

Friday 13^th February Bible Study in the Music Room 10.00 – 11.00am Speak to Shelley for more information.

Friday 13^th February Parkinson’s Exercise Class 6.30 – 7.30pm Speak to Phil Commons or Lesley for more information

Friday 13^th February House group at 8pm in Adel. See Jonathan, Hilary, Steve or Helen.

Sunday 15^th February Service together 11.00 – 12.00pm Whole Life Worship: part 5 ‘Mind, body, soul Part 2’ with a group for our younger friends to explore the theme creatively together. We’ll also share communion together.

Sunday 15^th February Rock Solid Youth group 7-8pm in the church building

February half term…

Monday 16^th February 10-12 Beacon warm welcome café for all. Food pantry available.

No Stepping Stones this week.

No lunch club this week but at 1.45pm we’ll be having a film afternoon open to everyone! With a nod to the Milano Winter Olympics that started this weekend, we’ll be showing the film ‘Cool Runnings’ (PG) The story of a Jamaican bob sleigh team at the Winter Olympics! All ages are welcome and we’ll have choc ices at the interval. Film running time is 98 minutes so we’ll be done by 3.45pm.

Thursday 19^th February Craft group warm welcome space. All welcome to come along and chat or to make something or learn a new skill.

Most house groups will be running through half term but do check with Lesley or Shelley or ask individual group leaders.

Looking ahead..

Tuesday February 24^th7.30pm Whole Church meeting. All welcome. The agenda will come out this week and will include budget priorities for the year, looking at what God is doing amongst us and updates from those who want to share what has been happening in the areas of church they have been leading or involved in since the last meeting.

The mission group were due to meet on 24^th February but this has been postponed due to the church meeting needing to be in February and this being the only available date when reports can be prepared. It is proposed that mission group meets a week later on the 3^rd March. If you are usually part of this group we’ll be in touch with you this week.

A few things to let you know about..

Over the last week we have had two meet ups for those who lead sung worship each week and for those involved in sung worship and in the tech team. Thanks to Andy who led the discussions and a big thankyou to all those who contributed to praying, eating, sharing practical skills and discerning where we are and what we could prayerfully develop.

Thankyou to those who came to support the family and friends of Jean Hiley last Thursday at Jean’s Thanksgiving and Celebration of life Service. Do continue to pray for the family.

Sadly, Joan Gardner died recently after an illness. Some of you may remember Joan as she has been part of the church for a long time although she hasn’t been in the building for a while. Joan’s funeral will take place on Thursday 19^th February at 11.00am at The Immaculate Heart of Mary Church on Harrogate Road. All those who would like to go to the service to remember and thank God for Joan’s life are welcome.

Around the city…

The launch of the Leeds Lent Prayer Diary which will take place on the 12th February, 6 – 8pm at the St George’s Conference Centre, 60 Great George St, Leeds LS1 3DL. You can sign up for the launch here Leeds Lent Prayer Diary Launch Tickets, Thu, Feb 12, 2026 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite If you have any questions then please email at comms@lcct.org.uk.

North Church are hosting two events you may be interested in…

On Wednesday 11^th February it is the Women’s night 7-9pm with a time of sung worship and visiting speaker is Jo Hargreaves, psychotherapist and pastor, known as the Faith filled therapist on Instagram she links science, mental health and the bible. Open to all.

What’s On | North Church

On Wednesday 18^th March ‘Care for the Family’ are hosting an evening at North Church called ‘Tweens and Teens: what every parent needs to know’ Book a ticket at the link here Tweens and Teens: What every parent needs to know – Leeds Tickets, Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 7:30 PM | Eventbrite

“My soul magnifies the Lord
and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour” (Luke 1:46)

In Christ

Shelley

Shelley Dring

Minister

Moortown Baptist Church

Shelley’s News for week commencing Sunday 1 February

January 31, 2026 by Shelley Dring

Dear all

This week I was reminded of Psalm 23 v 2-4 (Living translation)

“He lets me rest in the meadow grass and leads me beside the quiet streams. He gives me new strength. He helps me do what honours him the most.

Even when walking through the dark valley of death I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me, guarding, guiding all the way.”

David sings of the experience of trudging through a valley of death and although God doesn’t take him out of it, he recognises the God who travels alongside him, matching each step, each movement. He is the same God who journeyed with the exhausted friends on the Emmaus Road. They didn’t recognise him until a memory was triggered in their minds when they shared a meal. Like a meadow of flowers or a refreshing stream, there was creativity, grace, companionship and restoration on the journey. In psalm 23, David sees the promise that in the midst of the storm there is new strength for each day and it’s something we need to look out for before we get too focused on the valley slopes.

On Sunday our journey continues with our whole life worship series at all age café church, looking specifically at friendships. We start at 11am with breakfast snacks and drinks for all ages. After the service, 1pm – 2pm there is a get together/share/pray session for ‘sung’ worship leaders in the music room, bring some lunch. Rock Solid for youth meets 7-8pm in the building. Do ask if you want more information. Let’s lift our young people and leaders in prayer at 7pm on Sunday.

The week ahead..

Monday 2^nd February 10-12 Beacon warm welcome café for all. Food pantry available.

Tuesday 3^rd February Stepping Stones For the under 5’s and their parents and carers 10.00 – 11.30am (speak to Diane or Hilary if interested)

Tuesday 3^rd February House Group in the Music Room 12.30 – 2.30 speak to Howard Dews

Tuesday 3^rd February at 7.30 Safeguarding group meets in church.

Wednesday 4^th February Lunch Club 10.15am – 1.15pm Speak to Rachel or Lesley if you want more information as you need to be booked on.

Wednesday 4^th February House Group Music Room 7.30 – 9.30pm Speak to Andy or Ruth for more information.

Thursday 5^th February We will keep in touch about whether craft group warm welcome space will be going ahead this week as we are still looking for someone to help lead it. For general information, contact Karen if you want to know more.

Thursday 5^th February 2.30pm The Thanksgiving Service for the life of Jean Hiley in the church building, followed by refreshments,.

Thursday 5^th February Bible Study in the Music Room 7.00pm – 9.00pm Speak to Gareth, John C or Lesley

Friday 6^th February Bible Study in the Music Room 10.00 – 11.00am Speak to Shelley for more information.

Friday 6^th February Parkinson’s Exercise Class 6.30 – 7.30pm Speak to Phil Commons or Lesley for more information

Friday 6^th February House group at 8pm in Adel See Jonathan, Hilary, Steve or Helen.

Saturday 7^th February Sung worship and tech teams get together at the start of the year. Chance to share, plan, pray and eat! Starts at 12.30 and finished by 3.

Sunday 8^th February Service together 11.00 – 12.00pm Whole Life Worship: part 4 ‘Body, mind and Soul’ with a group for our younger friends to explore the theme creatively together.

Sunday 8^th February Rock Solid Youth group 7-8pm in the church building

Looking ahead..

Below you will see a poster I have just been sent for a free session on ‘how to avoid digital scamming’ at the Ziff Centre next door to the church on 3^rd February. Its open to anyone.

Tuesday 10^th February 7.30pm Meeting for deacons and Shelley in the church building

Tuesday February 24^th7.30pm Whole Church meeting. All welcome. The agenda will come out soon and this will include making some decisions for the year ahead. We are continuing to pray for Gods guidance, looking at what God is doing in our communities and what the opportunities and challenges are. This includes items that have been brought up at more recent meetings, such as people support to support this work, over the next 6/12 months. Our building is an important part of this, some of you may have noticed a couple of water leaks from the rain over the last few weeks. It’s something we are investigating but again if you have anything to share on any of this do let the deacons or myself know. We want to prayerfully see all of this in the light of the bigger picture of what God is doing here in this community.

Last Thursday we held a service of Thanksgiving and Celebration for the life of Robert Owen and it was a privilege to hear people’s memories and stories of Robert. Thank you to all those came along and to all those who helped with set up, welcoming, worship and tech support. We continue to pray for the family.

Look forward to seeing you all soon,

Shelley

Minister

Moortown Baptist Church

Shelley’s news – week commencing Sunday 25th January

January 25, 2026January 24, 2026 by Shelley Dring

Dear friends

We started a theme in church last Sunday looking at whole life worship based on the Hebrew word ‘Avodah’ meaning worship, work and service. This word is used in the bible in the letter to the Romans Chapter 12 verse 1.

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

Last week we focused on money, this week we consider work, whether it be paid, voluntary, short term or long-term projects. What good works has God got for us to discover and get involved in? We start at 11am in the building and online on our youtube channel. There will be a group for children to explore the theme creatively during part of the service.

Here’s what’s going on for the rest of the week…

Sunday 25^th January Children’s group leaders planning and prayer after the service 1-2pm Feel free to bring your lunch.

Sunday 25^th January Rock solid youth 7-8 in the building. Ask for more details, all welcome.

Monday 26th January 10-12 Beacon warm welcome café for all. Food pantry available.

Tuesday 27^th January Stepping Stones For the under 5’s and their parents and carers 10.00 – 11.30am (speak to Diane or Hilary if interested)

Tuesday 27^th January House Group in the Music Room 12.30 – 2.30 speak to Howard Dews

Wednesday 28^th January Lunch Club 10.15am – 1.15pm Speak to Rachel or Lesley if you want more information as you need to be booked on.

Wednesday 28^th January Creative Psalm Writing 7.00 – 9.00pm in the Sports Hall. Everyone welcome, resources provided. Open to beginners and all who want to explore God in life in a different way. Ask Shelley for more information.

Wednesday 28^thJanuary House Group Music Room 7.30 – 9.30pm Speak to Andy or Ruth for more information.

Thursday 29^th January Warm Welcome Space Craft Group 2.00 – 4.00pm Contact Karen if you want to know more. All welcome

Thursday 29^th January Bible Study in the Music Room 7.00pm – 9.00pm Speak to Gareth, John C or Lesley

Friday 30^th January Bible Study in the Music Room 10.00 – 11.00am Speak to Shelley for more information.

Friday 30^th January Thanksgiving service for the life of Robert Owen starting at 11.30am. Do come along and support Carol and the family as we thank God for Robert’s life on earth. All are welcome to refreshments in church after the service. The family have said that you don’t need to wear dark colours for this service.

Friday 30^th January Parkinson’s Exercise Class 6.30 – 7.30pm Speak to Phil Commons or Lesley for more information

Friday 30^th January House group at 8pm in Adel See Jonathan, Hilary, Steve or Helen.

Sunday 1^st February All age café church 11.00 – 12.00pm with drinks and breakfast snacks, designed with all ages and experiences in mind. The theme is Whole Life Worship: relationships (John 15;15)

Sunday 1^st February Sung worship leaders get together. More details to come

Sunday 1^st February Rock Solid Youth group 7-8pm in the church building

Looking ahead..

Thursday 5^th February 2.30pm Thanksgiving Service for the life of Jean Hiley. All are invited to come and remember Jean and thank God for her life. There will be refreshments in the church after the service.

Saturday 7^th February Sunday sung worship and tech teams get together at the start of the year, starting at 12.30 for the afternoon. More details to come. If you have thoughts you would like to input on this please see Andy B or Shelley.

Tuesday 10^th February 7.30pm Meeting for deacons and Shelley in the church building

Tuesday February 24^th Whole Church meeting. All welcome. The agenda will come out soon but this will include making some decisions for the year ahead. We are continuing to pray for Gods guidance, looking at what God is doing in our midst and thinking and planning for where God is leading us.

Around our community..

You may have heard or seen our facebook page about Councillor Mahalia France-Mir who sadly died last Monday. Mahalia represented Moortown ward for Leeds City Council and held some of her local surgeries in the church building. We pray for her family and thank God for her work in our local communities. We endeavour to continue to work for good with our partners in the community.

The self-defense class we were hosting with LJWB was postponed as not enough people signed up in time but if you would be interested in something like this in the future can you let Lesley know and we will compile a list of interested people ready for the next one.

In Christ

Shelley

Shelley Dring

Minister

Moortown Baptist Church

Shelley’s message for w/c Sunday 18th January

January 17, 2026January 17, 2026 by Shelley Dring

Dear friends

Here is the week ahead…

Sunday 18^th January Church service with Communion and group for our younger friends to explore the theme together 11.00 – 12.00pm. We’ll be starting a new short series looking at ‘whole life worship’.

Sunday 18^th January Rock Solid youth groups in the church building 7-8pm

Monday 19^th January Beacon Warm Welcome Space and Lord’s Pantry 10.00am – 12.00pm Everyone welcome

Tuesday 20^th January Stepping Stones For the under 5’s and their parents and carers 10.00 – 11.30am (speak to Diane or Hilary if interested)

Tuesday 20^th January House Group in the Music Room 12.30 – 2.30 speak to Howard Dews

Wednesday 21^st January Lunch Club 10.15am – 1.15pm Speak to Rachel or Lesley if you want more information as you need to be booked on.

Wednesday 21^st January Wednesday worship for all 1.30-2 in the music room. The theme is Awakening.

Wednesday 21^st January PACT Meeting 6.30 – 7.15pm – Police and Communities Together for Moortown. Everyone welcome.

Wednesday 21^st January House Group Music Room 7.30 – 9.30pm Speak to Andy or Ruth for more information.

Thursday 22^nd January Warm Welcome Space Craft Group 2.00 – 4.00pm Contact Karen if you want to know more.

Thursday 22^nd January Women’s Self Defence Group 1.00 – 5.00pm Sports Hall. All women are welcome to book a free place.. See attachment to this email or ask Shelley or Lesley.

Thursday 22^nd January Bible Study in the Music Room 7.00pm – 9.00pm Speak to Gareth, John C or Lesley

Friday 23^rd January Bible Study in the Music Room 10.00 – 11.00am Speak to Shelley for more information.

Friday 23^rd January Parkinson’s Exercise Class 6.30 – 7.30pm Speak to Phil Commons or Lesley for more information

Friday 23^rd January House group at 8pm in Adel See Jonathan, Hilary, Steve or Helen.

Sunday 25^th January Service 11.00 – 12.00pm with a group to explore the theme with our younger friends.

Sunday 25^th January Rock Solid Youth group 7-8pm in the church building

Also…

Wednesday 28^th January Creative Psalm Writing 7.00 – 9.00pm in the Sports Hall. Everyone is welcome and you can bring your own paper and resources or just use what we have here (we have pastels, pens, colouring pencils and art paper..)

Well done!

Well done to all those who completed the erecting scaffolding course on Friday and passed with flying colours! We are committed to looking after our volunteers and passing on skills so we are very grateful for those who gave up their time to do this and the money from church to support the training.

Last week myself, Deacons Andy, Krys, Mandy, John along with Rachel our Seniors worker went to the Fresh Streams leadership Conference in Staffordshire. We’ll be passing on helpful learning and training in the next month as there were many different workshops alongside the main sessions. In the meantime, if you would like to watch the main seminars for free they are all available online on their youtube channel at FSLC26 – Awaken – Session 6 – Holding Space for Encounter The theme for the Conference was Awaken.

Soon Krys and Bela will be visiting the women’s refuge in Sri Lanka. If you want to find out more then have a look at our website here Women’s Development Centre. Krys Gadd makes her annual visit to Sri Lanka, only this time her support team is considerably bigger. Read on to find out how you can help. – Moortown Baptist Church

Church meetings dates will be confirmed this week.

Funerals

I now have some more information about two funerals taking place at Moortown Baptist Church over the next few weeks. The thanksgiving service for Robert Owen will take place at 11.30am on Friday 30^th January in the church building followed by refreshments in the church. All who would like to come and remember Robert and support Carol are welcome to all of this. Carol has said that you do not need to wear dark clothes on this occasion.

The thanksgiving service for Jean Hiley will take place in the church building at 2pm on Thursday 5^th February. More details to come.

Finally, a big thank you

A big thank you to everyone who came to celebrate my birthday after church last week. I was really touched by your fantastic cards and things and many kind greetings. It was a special time together and massive thanks too to all those who made cake, decorated and supported tea and coffee making throughout the afternoon! You have kicked off the year for me well!

In Christ

Shelley

Shelley Dring

Minister

Moortown Baptist Church

Shelley’s friendly update – 30th November

November 29, 2025November 29, 2025 by Shelley Dring

Dear friends,

Advent is a time of preparation for the arrival of the coming King. It’s a reminder of Jesus first arrival on earth as well as a second arrival that is to come. Stories of advent span the whole of the bible and beyond as we look backwards and forwards at how God loves and moves through time and through people. For those of you who like time travelling stories and films in different time frames, Advent is a good one to wonder about and to think about what God has for us in this season.

So, we start tomorrow with Advent Part 1: Hope and the wonderful plan. We meet at 11am in the building and online and there will be a group for our younger friends to explore the same theme during the message part of the service. The first part of the service will introduce the theme for all. Thankyou to Susan for the advent ring.

In the evening, Rock Solid youth meet at 7-8pm in the building. Thanks to all those leading and praying for our youth groups and families. If you are interested, then do let me or one of the leaders know.

We’ll have the first batch of MBC Christmas cards to give out tomorrow too so do pick one up to keep or give away. All details are now on the website.

The week ahead..

Monday 1^st December 10-12 midday Beacon warm welcome space and café in the building
Monday 1^st December 7.30pm Staff and deacons Christmas get together
Tuesday 2^nd December Stepping Stones for under 5’s and their parents, grandparents, and carers. See Diane, Hilary, or Lesley for more information.
Tuesday 2^nd December afternoon bible study in church. See Howard or check with Lesley
Wednesday 3^rd December Lunch club for those who attend and volunteers. Speak to Lesley for more information.
Wednesday 3^rd December 7.30pm Hybrid bible study moves to Harewood this week Speak to Ruth or Andy B or Shelley.
Wednesday 3^rd December House group with Dianne. Speak to Diane or ask Lesley or Shelley for more information.
Thursday 4^th December 2.00 -4.00pm Craft group and warm welcome space in church building. Do pop in and say hello. Speak to Karen, Lesley or myself for more information or if it’s something you might be able to join or support as we are looking for helpers.
Thursday 4^th December Bible study at 7pm, see Gareth G or ask Lesley.
Friday 5^th December Bible Study at 10.00am – 11.15 in church. See Shelley for more information.
Friday 5^th December House Group 8.00pm – 10.00 with Jonathan and Hilary D and Steve and Helen O. Do speak to them or ask Lesley or I for more information.
Friday 5^th December Decorate the church at teatime ready for Christmas. If you are around through the week and would like to make the church look Christmassy in anyway then do let Karen, Lesley or myself know as we would love some help.
Sunday 7^th December ‘Christmas café church’ (Advent 2: Hope) 11-12midday followed by a Christmas community café with live music, dance and refreshments 12.45-2.45pm. Kevin Sinfield will be stopping at MBC at about 1.15/1.30pm on his final day of the 7 in 7 in 7 Challenge 2025 raising money for those affected by Motor Neuron Disease. Please stay to cheer him in, join the Christmas café, invite some people along, then wave Kevin off as he runs onto Beckett Park University Campus to begin the Leeds Santa Dash. More information here by clicking this link Run For All launches Leeds Santa Dash as final leg of Kevin Sinfield’s 7in7: Together Challenge. There will be extra parking over the road at the nursery, look out for our volunteers in high vis jackets who are here to help and have a plan!

More for Advent and Christmas..

Wednesday 10^th December 1.30-2pm Advent Wednesday Worship
Sunday 14^th December 11 o clock service with communion (Advent 3) and group for our younger friends to creatively explore the theme. There will be an opportunity to sing carols in a local home for the elderly after the service (please bring your lunch if you want to eat in between the service and carol singing to keep your energy up!) Speak to Rachel B or Claire for more information.
Then at 3-5pm we’ll host a Wreath Making workshop in the Sanctuary. It’s £10 per wreath and everything is provided including natural and non-natural materials, Christmas refreshments and music. Younger children need to be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential. Please contact Lesley in the office admin@moortownbaptistchurch.org.uk Thanks to those who have booked in so far.
Sunday 21^st December is our All Age nativity (Advent 4) 11-12 midday.
Monday 22^nd December Christmas Beacon and warm welcome space with Christmas crafts and snacks for all ages from 10-12midday.
Wednesday 24^th December at 4.30-5.15pm it’s the All Age Christingle Service
Thursday 25^th December 10.30-11.30am All Age Christmas Day Service
Sunday 28^th December 11-12 Service together

If you would like to get involved by doing a reading, saying a prayer, welcoming, helping with refreshments do let myself or Lesley or one of the deacons know or Karen if it’s about refreshments. You don’t need to be in a team yet, just come and have a chat. Or of you aren’t sure have a chat anyway, we’d love to involve you somehow.

We are putting together some hampers again to give to those who use the food pantry at Christmas and to those who we think would appreciate a hamper connected to any group over the Christmas season. We are looking at Christmas themed snacks and food, new woolly socks and hats, shower gel. A few children’s gifts such as stationary, pens. Please place them under the tree on 7^th December. We have had a wonderful donation of books from the Little Bookshop in Chapel Allerton. Thanks to Sophie for helping with this.

Do check out the website and face book page to see what’s been going on this week and what’s coming up! www.moortownbaptistchurch.org.uk

Isaiah 9:6-7:”For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

In Christ

Shelley Dring

Minister

Moortown Baptist Church

Shelley’s update – 21 November

November 21, 2025 by Shelley Dring

Dear friends

It’s the final part of our Acts series on Sunday when we look at ‘The Church’s Mission in Acts’. Part 6: For every generation…the story beyond Acts. We start at 11am and there will be a group for our younger friends to explore the same thing and make some crafts.

After church, the yellow badge prayer group will meet with Krys and Shelley in church for a catch up, learning and pray.

Extra get together! Thanks to those who have let me and Karen know if you are available to help with something on the 7^th December to support our Christmas café and community event. We would love to have 15 minutes just to chat through some of the logistics so far on the day so will be meeting at 12.45 in the music room until 1pm. Krys is aware of this and will start the prayer group at 1pm. If you want to find out more about it then you are really welcome to join us 12.45-1pm. If you are available to help but really can’t make the 15 mins at 12.45 then do let us know and we will work find a way of you keeping in the loop! If you aren’t sure how to help, we have asked for people to help with tea’s refreshments on the day or make cake/Christmas snacks beforehand, car parking support, a couple of people to check on the musicians and dancers, someone to keep an eye on Christmas crafts. Someone to help with sound and lights (not all afternoon, just to set up and keep an eye out) The last chance for any musicians/singers to let me know if they want to do something Christmassy together is Sunday.

In the evening Rock Solid youth groups meet in the building 7pm until 8pm. All welcome. Please pray for our young people and their leaders and for our children’s group in the morning.

Next week..

Monday 24^th November 10-12 midday Beacon warm welcome space and café in the building. We welcome Andrea and Mark Hodgkins visit who will pop in for a coffee at about 11am. At midday after the café, they will share about the work they have been doing as missionaries in Chad with Baptist Missionary Society. A light lunch will be provided for all who attend so feel free to come at 12midday until 1 o clock or simply stay after Beacon. All welcome.

Tuesday 25^th November Stepping Stones for under 5’s and their parents, grandparents and carers. See Diane, Hilary, or Lesley for more information.

Tuesday 25^th November afternoon bible study in church. See Howard or check with Lesley

Tuesday 25^th November 7.30pm Deacons meeting in the music room.

Wednesday 26^th November Lunch club for those who attend and volunteers. Speak to Lesley for more information.

Wednesday 26^th November 7.30pm Bible study in the church building. Speak to Ruth or Andy B or send a message to Lesley.

Wednesday 26^th November House group with Diane, ask Lesley or Diane or mention it to Shelley for more information.

Wednesday 26^th November Creative prayer art session with Krys and Cas in church at 7pm. Do come along even if you haven’t been before. Materials are provided. Please talk to Krys if you have questions.

Thursday 27^th November 2.00 -4.00pm Craft group and warm welcome space in church building. Do pop in and say hello. Speak to Karen, Lesley or myself for more information or if it’s something you might be able to join or support as we are looking for helpers.

Thursday 27^th November Bible study at 7pm in church building, see Gareth G or ask Lesley.

Friday 28^th November Bible Study at 10.00am – 11.15 in church. See Shelley for more information.

Friday 28^th November House Group 8.00pm – 10.00 with Jonathan and Hilary D and Steve and Helen O. Do speak to them or ask Lesley for more information.

Sunday 30^th November 11am Advent Sunday service with small group for our younger friends. We begin our Advent series ‘Small Wonder’.

Advent and Christmas at MBC…

Friday 5^th December.. Decorate the church at teatime ready for Christmas. If you can help, can you let Karen, Lesley or myself know please? Even if you drop in to put up a tree (most of the tree decorations are going on in the service on the 7^th), put up a row of lights, put up a garland, it’s all helpful and supports us getting ready for café church on the Sunday!

Sunday 7^th December ‘Christmas café church’ 11-12 midday (advent 2) All ages together with breakfast pastries and drinks.

Followed by…Christmas community café with live music, dancers, Christmas refreshments and Christmas crafts 12.45-2.45pm. Kevin Sinfield will be stopping at MBC at about 1.15 on his final day of the 7 in 7 in 7 Challenge 2025 raising money for those affected by Motor Neuron Disease. Please stay to cheer him in, join the Christmas café, invite some people along, then wave Kevin off as he runs onto Beckett Park University Campus to begin the Leeds Santa Dash. More information here by clicking this link Run For All launches Leeds Santa Dash as final leg of Kevin Sinfield’s 7in7: Together Challenge. Feel free to bring a packed lunch if you feel you need more sustenance and are staying until 3pm. Please invite people and pray for the weekend. We will have the MBC Christmas cards produced by then too so that we can invite people back throughout Advent and Christmas. The nursery over the road is kindly letting us use their carpark on the day. If you live near and can walk on the day then that will be helpful. The whole event is free. There will be an opportunity to give cash towards Leeds Hospital Funds and MND Association on the day.

Wednesday 10^th December Advent Wednesday Worship 1.30-2pm in the building.

Sunday 14^th December 11 o clock service with communion (Advent 3).

Go out to sing carols at Grove Park Care Home after the service. The home is on Grove Lane off Meanwood Road. Feel free to bring a bite to eat after the service. Please can you let Rachel B or Claire know if you are coming. It’s especially important to let them know if you need a lift so they can work out spaces.

Then at 3-5pm we’ll host a Wreath Making workshop in the MBC building. It’s £10 per wreath and everything is provided including natural and non-natural materials, Christmas refreshments, and music. Younger children need to be accompanied by an adult. The workshop is a taught workshop so you will be shown what to do then then you will have space to work at your own pace. Booking is essential, contact Lesley in the office admin@moortownbaptistchurch.org.uk Another great opportunity to bring people and welcome others as well as taking some time to do something different.

Sunday 21^st December is our All Age nativity (Advent 4) 11-12 midday.

Monday 22^nd December is Christmas Beacon and warm welcome space with Christmas crafts and snacks for all ages from 10-12midday.

Wednesday 24^th December at 4.30-5.15pm it’s the All Age Christingle Service

Thursday 25^th December 10.30-11.30am All Age Christmas Day Service (note the slightly earlier time!)

Sunday 28^th December 11-12am service together

If you would like to get involved by saying a reading, a prayer, welcoming, helping with refreshments or anything else you feel would support what is going on, then do let myself or Lesley or a deacon know or Karen for refreshments. You don’t need to already be in a team , just come and have a chat with us.

Hampers for our community..

We are looking at Christmas themed snacks and food, new woolly socks and hats, shower gel. A few children gifts such as stationary, pens. Please place them under the tree on 7^th December. I’ll keep in touch about when the hampers are being put together and if anyone would like to help.

Check out the website www.moortownbaptistchurch.org.uk and Facebook page to keep in touch and share the news with others. Thanks to those who are helping me with this. If you want to help in this area, then do let me know.

“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news..” Isaiah 52:7

Shelley

Shelley Dring

Minister

Moortown Baptist Church