Emily Thackray will be talking on “The Gift of Life: How Transplants Transform Lives” at the Church.  Emily is an inspiring speaker and co-founder of the charity “Live Life then Give Life”.  She had a lung transplant 18 months ago. 

There is no charge for the event and refreshments will be served from 10.00 am.  All are welcome.

THE GIFT OF LIFE

Donated organs can transform lives

Transplants transform lives.  They are one of the most miraculous achievements of modern medicine, and one donor can give the gift of life to several people and restore the sight to two more.  But this depends entirely on the generosity of donors and their families, who are willing to make this life-saving gift to others.

We realise that deciding to sign up for organ donation is a very personal and sensitive issue, and one which would never be forced on anyone.

But here at Kingston United Reformed Church we want to make it easy for you to pick up a donor card and make a lasting record of your wishes.  Emily Thackray is an inspiring speaker, and co-founder of the charity “Live Life then Give Life”. She had a lung transplant 18 months ago.

Whatever you do, don’t just do nothing. Sign up, live life, then give life.

This is an article sent by John Simpson, who was at our church earlier in the year and has spoken at Mens Forum.

ZIMBABWE — HOUSE OF HORROR
by John Simpson

It came as no surprise to hear that the Zimbabwean government have refused to accept the democratic will of the people. This elite group comprised of ministers, generals, police chiefs and many judges who enjoy a fabulous lifestyle have accumulated riches beyond belief. They must have been horrified to discover that despite all the blatant vote rigging, the sheer number of people wanting change far outweighed their efforts to deceive. President Mbeki of South Africa, a close friend of Mr Mugabe stressed there was 'no crisis' in Zimbabwe. Tell that to brave Zimbabweans across the country who voted for change. A wave of fear is sweeping across the country. None are being spared : neither men , women nor children where beatings by Mugabe's 'rent a mob' are common place. Tell that to poor people who queued almost 5 hours at their local Grain Marketing Board Depot
whilst every single bag of this staple food was loaded onto army trucks. Mbeki, rejected by his own party the ANC, will leave behind a shameful legacy.

The euphoria following the results was short lived and the country is now in limbo. My mobile has been working overtime with frightened, angry text messages from friends some of which are listed below giving an insight into their feelings;

'Am in town and there is a heavy military presence mostly new recruits.' I felt the dictator's iron hand. As soon as I had finished sending the last text message, I got picked up by the young heavily armed militia and detained for no reason. I have just been released and am now on my way home.'

'We are anxiously waiting news. We are living in fear this side. The monster is so desperate.'

However, there is some better news. An exciting project on behalf of the artists is taking shape. Also, Lesley Charlton, minister of Kingston upon Thames URC, emailed me the other day. Quote - 'John, we are making Zimbabwe our target for Commitment for life starting this harvest. I wonder whether you could be part of that?' Excellent news - let's hope it spreads! The
May edition of the URC Reform magazine will feature St Andrew's support for Silveira House.

Finally, the latest text message sums up the situation in Zimbabwe: 'Things are so hard. Pray for us - we are suffering.'

Fancy a trip to Folkestone for the day with the church?  If so then put Saturday 5th July in your diary now!   This trip is open to all and there is plenty to do to suit all age groups.  I have a few ideas but would welcome other suggestions.  There is a great adventure play park, the beach to walk along, an art festival plus loads of other attractions.  No trip to the seaside would be complete without ice cream and a fish supper before heading home.  For more information contact Alison Holt.

African Positive Outlook, a charity working to improve the health and welfare of BME communities in Kingston (who are based in our church) are hosting a "Pampered Chef" lunch to raise funds for their work.  Entrance is £2.00 for an adult and children are free and for every order placed 10% will be donated to the charity.

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A Thanksgiving service will take place on Wednesday 23rd April at 14.00 to celebrate the life of Roy Cullum, a long standing member of our church.

On Sunday 13th April after the bring and share lunch we will be showing "Ratatouille" a recently released film which is suitable for all ages.  All are welcome.

Peacebuilder is a place that you learn about Jesus and have fun. There were three places you could go to in the gym where peace builders was held: one was arts and crafts, one was writing prayers and one was playing games. We got to sing songs and play a snow ball fight. Some times we went into a church were there was the child friendly award. It was free.

 by Rebecca

Ron Hinsley, Head of Certification at the Fairtrade Foundation, will be giving a talk about his book and his work, with time for questions.  Fairtrade Foundation Director Harriet Lamb said, Banana wars …. is a gripping story of David and Goliath and winning against the odds, with the knowledge that human livelihoods hang in the balance.  An inspiring story to shame the greedy and inspire the benevolent who identify with the downtrodden.  An inspiration.

Ghosts is a documentary produced by Channel 4, looking at the events that lead to the drowning of a group of Chinese illegal immigrants, whilst harvesting cockles in Morcombe Bay.  We will meet for coffee at 19.00 and the film will start at 19.30, followed by some discussion on the film.  If you have time, please stay and have a chat.  All are welcome