Bible Fresh Day on the Isle of Wight
Saturday 20 August 2011
A whistle stop tour of the Isle of Wight
It was a bright and early start for the nine of us leaving Basingstoke on Saturday morning for a day on the Isle of Wight.
We made good time to Southampton to board the 9.15 RedJet to Cowes. On the Southampton side two of the Isle of Wight Biblefresh team were there to welcome us and give assistance where necessary. The short trip over was nice and smooth and on reaching Cowes we were met by more members of the team. There were about 80 folk from all over the South making up the party. From the quayside it was a short walk to our first destination, Cowes Methodist Church with cars being provided for the less able. We were welcomed with a much appreciated cup of coffee (and loos). After refreshments and welcome we were led in a short meditation based on the Lord’s Prayer.
It was then time to board the double decker bus which would be our transport for the rest of the day. Cars were provided all day for those unable to negotiate the bus. Our next destination was Gunville for lunch. Before partaking of an excellent Ploughmans we looked at the story of the feeding of the five thousand with fresh eyes.
Being suitably fed and watered it was off on the bus again to be driven through some lovely countryside before ending up at the lovely chapel in Arreton. Here we had a meditation on Psalm 23 through pictures, words, music and silence.
It was then off to our final destination, Ryde where it was time for tea and cakes. We then watched a creative presentation of the Lord’s Supper after which we shared communion together.
Alas the time had come for us to be taken back to Cowes for the 4.14 ferry back to the mainland.
So was it a good day out?
Yes, it was.
What memories have I brought back with me?
- The slick organisation of the whole day.
- The warmth and friendliness of the Churches we visited.
- The wonderful atmosphere on the bus.
- The example of Gunville Church which has grown over the last few years and their formula – prayer!!
If another day was arranged would I go again?
Definitely yes.
Should you go next time?
Yes
Could we do something along the same lines in this Circuit?
Why not?
This day was part of the Biblefresh vision and it shows what can happen when two Circuits (East and West Wight) work together to the glory of God.
It was a real privilege to share with our Christian friends on the Island and who knows it might start a new trend.
Thanks to Richard for making the arrangements and to Terry and David for transport.
Linda plus 8
Bible Fresh - Pictures
On Saturday 20th August a group from our Circuit went to the Biblefresh trip on the Isle Wight.
We visited 4 churches. Each church took on a different aspect/theme. I took some photos at each of the churches. We thought you may be able to use them, or at least some of them on the website. Linda Hoe is going to write an account of the day, which will come later (when she has done it!), but I want to get the photos off my camera so I am sending them now, in 4 lots.
First we visited Cowes Methodist Church where we were provided with tea/coffee and a biscuit before spending some time reflecting on the Lord's Prayer.
Continuing...
I think the name of our second church was Gunneville Methodist Church
Here we took part in a meditation based on the feeding of the five thousand and then we were provided with a wonderful lunch.
Continuing...
Our third church was a village chapel - Arreton.
We reflected on Psalm 23
Final stop - Ryde where we had tea and cakes and celebrated communion.
