Radcliffe on Trent Methodist

Neustadt Exchanges

          When Sam and Emily were younger, we were aware of the relationship between the Radcliffe and the German Churches. We had attended a Barn Dance and I had been involved with the Youth Group in a Cycle Ride when they visited. I saw no need to get involved any further, as I saw it as a clicky group within the Church.

            It was by mistake that I walked into what was then the New Room, to have a quick word with John Hancock and the door closed behind me and the meeting started.

            The group were talking about a visit to Germany and they were ‘harking' on about the past. This was for a visit in 2000. In those days I was quick to open my mouth, and said that people needed to look forward in the new millennium and that the church should think of ourselves as being open to new ideas. We should also consider that we need to be able to offer our children the experience of new opportunities. It then dawned on me that I was talking myself into taking my family to Germany.

            We put our name down and we were given the names of a family to stay with, nobody had any information about them, so we had no idea what to expect.

            When we got off the bus at Neustadt, the happy, loving, smiling faces were the start of an overwhelming experience  and the relationship that we have since built has been so strong. We have visited Germany several times separately from the Church visits, and our German friends have come over here on their own.

            It is very hard to put into words what opportunities are open to families and individuals to experience this.

            I would encourage any individuals and families to be as involved as much as they can, even if it is only for a single session.

Activities will be aimed at all ages, so I am sure that something will suit you. If you are able to host or joint host someone, you will be rewarded a thousand fold,

Mark

VISIT OF CHRISTUSKIRCHE (METHODIST/BAPTIST CHURCH) NEUSTADT (Rheinland Pfalz) to RADCLIFFE ON TRENT - EASTER 2008

Planned events and Times

Thursday 20th March - coach meets main party at Birmingham Airport (12.55pm landing), welcome at church from 3.OOpm

Good Friday (Procession of Witness from Wellspring 9.3Oam - St Mary's 1O.l5am)

-Midday Meal at Church 12.O0noon (Afternoon with hosts - for local visits* etc)

-6.30 Shared table and reflection together at church.

Saturday 22nd -9.15 depart Bus outing to Chesterfield -Twisted spire church- tower visit signed for 10.15/11.OOam - visit market/museums - picnic meal in Church Centre 12.00 - return to Radcliffe on Trent by 5.OOpm

-6.45pm meal at Jade Garden Chinese Restaurant.

Easter Day -10.00 Easter Service (please bring a flower each) (6.3Opm Easter Celebration with St Mary's)

Easter Monday -Travel by car to "The Thatch" public house Bottesford arrive 11.3Oam for 12.00 buffet lunch, then on to Belvoir Castle for 1.00 pm admission

-6.3Opm Evening Meal at church and Social

Tuesday 25th March -10.OOam coach departs Radcliffe on Trent for Birmingham Airport for 11.3Oam check-in  (So so Sad!)