Hockley Pentecostal Church

Check out an earlier post for details of the refurbishment of most areas of the church. The meeting last Saturday was a great celebration of what God has done for us. We also rededicated the building to achieve His purposes. The celebration was attended by many special guests including the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Birmingham, Clare Short MP, head teachers, businessmen and the police. Around 250 people attended and heard the Lord Mayor acknowledging the wonderful work done by the church. He congratulated us on the refurbishment and added “but the church is not only the building, it is the people; and the people here are magnificent.”

In her speech Clare said that she was happy to accept our invitation partly to show her respect but also to take a look at us. “And what a happy and joyous group you are” she commented “there’s no doubt that the way you are brings joy in everybody’s heart and that is an entirely good thing.”

Our main speaker was Alan Hewitt, an internationally recognised Bible teacher. He gave an inspiring message which encouraged us to see the Building as a tool with which we could serve others. It must never became a protection which isolates us from the local community.

After the service a huge buffet was provided in the minor hall whilst special guests were looked after in the upstairs lounge.

This year the Father’s day service had a bit of a difference.  Every year the church gives flowers to all the women who come to the mother’s day service, but what about the men?  Pastor John had an idea and went to get a selection of tools.  Every man, whether a father or not,  got to take their pick! I chose a new 5m tape rule because I’ve lost count of the times I couldn’t find my old one.  Everyone was invited to stay for a buffet lunch afterwards.

On the 15th June we had our Jewellery making evening.  I don’t suppose you need me to tell you what it was about.  Although it was the day before our celebration and rededication service, it was well attended by people eager to develop their skills.  An expert came on the night to provide training and materials.  Her advice was to design quickly and get stuck into the ‘making’ so that you would have plenty to show for the evening.

There was a nominal charge for attendance and those taking their jewellery home simply paid for the materials they used.  There were also pieces available for purchase for those who didn’t have the time or skill to make what they wanted.  All the proceeds from the event were donated to charity.

The evening was a great success with everyone wanting to know when we could hold the next one.  The organiser is in demand so it’s proving difficult to set up another date at the moment.  Check out the special events page to see if there’s anything coming up soon.

If anyone’s got any photos then let me have a copy and I’ll stick them on the site.