<?xml version="1.0"?><rss version="2.0"><channel><title>Dronfield Baptist Church</title><description>Dronfield Baptist Church</description><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/</link><language>en-us</language><image><title>Dronfield Baptist Church</title><url>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk//favicon.ico</url><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/</link><width>32</width><height>32</height></image><item><title>A Rocha</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=A_Rocha</link><description>A Rocha        A Rocha started with a field study centre in Portugal (where A Rocha  means ‘the rock’) under the leadership of Peter and Miranda Harris in 1983, and  is now active in over 20 countries worldwide.  A Rocha UK was established in 2001.        All the international A Rocha organisations share five core commitments:        Christian – Underlying  all we do is our biblical faith in the living God, who made the world, loves it  and entrusts it to the care of human society.        Conservation – We carry out research for the conservation and  restoration of the natural world and run environmental education programmes for  people of all ages.        Community – Through our  commitment to God, each other and the wider creation, we aim to develop good  relationships both within the A Rocha family and in our local communities.        Cross-Cultural – We draw on  the insights and skills of people from diverse cultures, both locally and  around the world.        Co-operation – We work in  partnership with a wide variety of organisations and individuals who share our  concerns for a sustainable world.        The Biblical  Basis of Creation Care        The Bible begins with God’s love for all He has created. It is all ‘very good’. People are just one part’ of that goodness,  but are also given a special task – to be ‘God’s image, by looking after the  earth and its creatures.        Caring for creation is not an optional extra for Christians, but part of  worship – for all things were made for Jesus, discipleship – because the earth  is the Lord’s not ours, and mission – sharing the good news with the whole  creation. Jesus’ resurrection gives us  the sure hope that one day all things can be transformed and made new.        For more information on A Rocha go to www.arocha.org        For more information about the A Rocha Support Group at Dronfield  Baptist Church and the work they are doing in the Dronfield area, contact Secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk.</description><pubDate>06 March 2012 08:47</pubDate></item><item><title>Eco-congregation</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Eco-congregation</link><description>The  Eco-Congregation Story    Eco-Congregation  developed from a partnership between the Government funded environmental  charity ENCAMS (which runs the Keep Britain Tidy Campaign and the Going for  Green brand) and the Environmental Issues Network of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland. It aims to encourage  churches to consider environmental issues within a Christian context and enable  local churches to make positive contributions in their life and mission.      Eco-Congregation was developed from a Pilot Study involving churches from  across Britain and Ireland and dedicated in a service at St Paul's Cathedral in  September 2000. A tree was planted in the churchyard to mark the occasion. The  ecumenical service was led by senior church leaders and included a sermon  preached by the Bishop of London. Eco-Congregation   Scotland was  dedicated in a service at Dunblane Cathedral in March 2001.Eco-Congregation has received endorsements from many denominations and church  leaders. Within the first 2 years around 200 churches completed an  Eco-Congregation churches environmental check-up and in March 2002 the first  Eco-Congregation Award was given to Evesham   Methodist Church.  Two years later in March 2004 the number of Award winning churches had grown to  36. By the end of 2006 there were over 100 Award winning churches in Britain &amp; Ireland.    The  management of Eco-Congregation in England  with support for churches in Wales  transferred from ENCAMS to the Arthur Rank Centre in April 2004, and in March  2007 came under the management of A Rocha UK. The Eco-Congregation office for England &amp; Wales is now housed with the  Sheffield Groundworks Trust.    Dronfield Baptist Church was awarded it’s first Eco Congregation award in 2009 and is currently working towards it’s second award.Relevant Book Reviews    SAVING GOD’S GREEN EARTH  byTri Robinson (147 pages)    “The  Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Edento tend and care for it”Genesis 2:15Starting with the thought that God reveals himself through his creation,  the author explains how and why we should care for, manage and nurture what we  have been given. We are called to leave the earth in a better  place and share in the Lord’s high value of it by caring for the environment. The last two chapters give practical examples  and steps to help us get the earth to a better place.This is an easy read. Examples of people’s experiences and excepts from  the bible are used to illustrate and support the points made to show us the  importance of “rediscovering the church’s responsibility to environmental stewardship”.  The author points out the fact that the story of mankind, in the bible, begins  in the garden (Genesis 2) and ends in a restored garden (Revelations 22). This book makes you realise that although  leaving the earth as a better place is a big vision, with small steps we can all do our part and make a contribution.  If you are interested in conservation, or just want to improve our environment,  and are looking for ways to share  Christ, then this book will be of interest. Nicola Dodu‘Planetwise’ by Dave Booklass (copy in the church library) Dare to care for God’s world’.  This is the challenge of this book, but it is also the testimony of one  man’s journey with God. This came about  due to an experience whilst camping on holiday in the Scilly Isles when Dave  was told to tip his rubbish over the cliff like everyone else. This had a profound effect on him and fired  his desire to care for the environment in whatever way he could. This continued  after marrying and having children and relates how together with Ann, his wife,  they have had to rely on God in so many ways, health, monitory, and in many other  situations. This is an inspiring read  and one which challenges our faith and trust in God and our responsibility to  care, when and how we are able, for the wonderful world God has created which  is increasingly under threat.     The A Rocha  support group in conjunction with the Lea Brook Valley volunteers are keen to  encourage all age groups to look again  at the subject of creation care. Dave’s  book should encourage us in becoming ‘Planetwise’. Rita Crowson        L is for Lifestyle, Christian living  that doesn’t cost the earth, by   Ruth Valerio    Ruth writes and speaks on global justice issues for  Christian Relief, Education and Development (Cred) and is a tutor at the Open Theological   College. Previously she was Head of Social Responsibility  for the Evangelical Alliance. She is the  co-ordinator or the A Rocha Living Lightly web site. She is a wife and mother of 2 children.     In her book L  is for Lifestyle Ruth takes us through the alphabet showing us how we can live  a more God centred environmentally friendly life. She covers a wide variety of subjects from B  is for ‘bananas’ to M for ‘money’, F for‘food’  to W for “water”.    Ruth  highlights the main threats to people and our planet, God’s beloved creation. She shows how, by making small changes to our  everyday behaviour, we can learn the secret of a life that is both fair and  simple.I would  encourage you to read this book, it is an extremely enlightening read. Margaret Keen</description><pubDate>06 March 2012 08:35</pubDate></item><item><title>Other Church Activities</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Other_Church_Activities</link><description>At Dronfield Baptist Church we have a number of activities that are community focused. Not only do these activities provide activities for the community but also allow us to meet in friendship. Whether this be opening the church for coffee mornings or offering a House of Puppets. All are open to anyone - just turn up or contact one of us if you want to know more.</description><pubDate>30 August 2010 14:43</pubDate></item><item><title>What goes on</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=What_goes_on</link><description>Dronfield Baptist Church is a very active community. Something is going on most days of the week and from time to time we organise special activities that help us to focus on our local community.</description><pubDate>30 August 2010 13:17</pubDate></item><item><title>Keeping Young People Safe</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Keeping_Young_People_Safe</link><description>“SAFE TO GROW”    DRONFIELD BAPTIST CHURCH    Summary of our Policy Statement on children, young people, and the church.  This statement is reviewed and affirmed annually   at the February meeting of Church members.    All children and young people, whatever their age, gender, racial background, culture or disability, should have the opportunity to grow up safe from harm.  (where the words ‘child’ or ‘children’ appear it is taken to include young people).    Dronfield Baptist Church believes that children and young people are part of the Church today. They have much to give as well as to receive        We will listen to them.    We will nurture them in worship, learning, and in community life.    We will respect the wishes and feelings of children and young people.    As part of Dronfield Baptist Church’s commitment to children, the church has appointed three Child Protection Advocates (all of whom have some professional involvement in the nurture of children). Their role will be regularly explained to children, and their names and telephone number publicly displayed.    Regular visits (up to 3 times per year) will be made by the Advocates to each organisation to identify any necessary training/induction procedures required for newly appointed workers.    Members of Dronfield Baptist Church commit themselves to the nurturing, protection and safekeeping of all, especially children.    It is the responsibility of each member to prevent the physical, sexual and emotional abuse of children, and to report any abuse suspected, disclosed or discovered as laid down in the Good Practice Guidelines.     Members of Dronfield Baptist Church recognise that all work with children is the responsibility of the whole church.    Dronfield Baptist Church is committed to supporting, resourcing and training those who work with children and to providing supervision. The Church leadership will seek to support and encourage the leaders, workers, children and young people.    The Church has a set of detailed procedures and good practice guidelines for all involved with children during their work in the church. These Guidelines are based on the guidelines and principles published by The Baptist Union of Great Britain in its booklet “Safe To Grow” which is in line with the Home Office Code of Practice. Copies are available on request. Email secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk     Each worker with children      must have a current Criminal Record Bureau Disclosure.    is given a copy of the Church’s Agreed Procedures and Good Practice Guidelines. They must know the guidelines and undertake to observe them.   is required to sign the Safe To Grow Declaration.</description><pubDate>23 July 2010 17:08</pubDate></item><item><title>Our Connections</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Our_Connections</link><description>We recognise and celebrate our links in the faith with the wider Christian community, and we talk about “inter-dependence” rather than “independence”. We have a strong commitment to the unity of the church, not least within our own town and district.      The Baptist Family  From early days, English Baptist churches organised themselves into geographical Associations. For reasons of history (we were originally the daughter church of a church in Sheffield), we are part of the Yorkshire Baptist Association [ www.yba.org.uk ] The Association primarily has a supportive role and provides a framework for churches across the region to work together and offer mutual support.    At a national level, we belong to the Baptist Union of Great Britain [ www.baptist.org.uk ] (the BU), which has its offices in Didcot, Oxfordshire. It offers support to the churches in the areas of communications, mission, ministry, faith and unity, trusteeship, finance and legal matters.    We take seriously the need for churches to support each other financially, and we do this through the Home Mission Fund, which is a national arrangement by which small churches can be enabled to have the services of an ordained minister and new ventures can be encouraged.    BMS World Mission [ www.bmsworldmission.org ] is the national organisation through which we channel our concern for the the mission of Christ in the wider world. In particular, we have a link with Mike and Daveen Wilson, who work in the arid north east of Brazil. Mike is an agricultural specialist and has done much to improve the material lot of very impoverished communities in the area. Daveen has specialised in social development work and has been active in supporting local Christians in the development of a network of Christian communities in the area.    The Baptist community is one of the largest Christian groupings in the world and most Baptists look to the Baptist World Alliance [ www.bwanet.org ] as a focal point for their common life. The BWA has over 200 national conventions in membership and over 100 Million people belong to BWA-affiliated fellowships.    Links with other Christian communities   As Jesus approached his death by crucifixion, he prayed for his disciples (John 17). A powerful strand of his prayer was that they should be “one”. Down the years, Christians have not always taken that desire for the unity of the church very seriously, but the twentieth century did see a renewed effort across many denominations to work it out in the life of local churches. Over the years, Christians have differed over many issues and we have learned that unity does not mean uniformity. Rather, we are called to celebrate our diversity and discover the way in which we can experience God’s love working to bring us together.    The local expression of all this is Churches Together in Dronfield and District [www.dronfieldtogether.org.uk ] based on a covenant to which all the local churches committed themselves in 1990.We provided the first secretary and chair and have been very committed to its work and witness over the years. We rejoice to see Christians working together with a sense that we are in our unity “the church of Christ in this place”. Within our own fellowship there are many who have joined us from other parts of the Christian church and their experience enriches our worship and shared life. Whatever our differences, what we have in common is a commitment to the Jesus who is Lord.    Other Evangelical Christians  Despite some differences about matters such as church order and baptism, those who think of themselves as Evangelical Christians have much in common. They are to be found in all the major Protestant denominations and it is natural they wish to network together across denominational boundaries. To this end, DBC is a member church of the Evangelical Alliance [ www.eauk.org ] and subscribes to its Basis of Faith.</description><pubDate>23 July 2010 17:03</pubDate></item><item><title>Coffee Pot</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Coffee_Mornings</link><description>The Coffee Pot      Thursday is market day in Dronfield!    A lot of people come into the town centre to do their shopping – and the Baptist chapel is strategically placed on the route from Sainsbury’s to the market as a stop off. You are sure of a warm welcome!        Take the weight off your feet     Enjoy a cup of Fairtrade tea or coffee.     Indulge in a little something from the supply of tempting home baking –or take a bulk purchase for later    Have a look at the stalls – craft items, fairtrade goods, bric-a-brac.    Meet your friends and enjoy chat and friendship    If you would like a quiet word about something that is on your mind, or perhaps someone to pray with you, just speak to one of those serving refreshments. We always have people around to offer a listening ear and to pray with you if you want it.Every Thursday from 10 a.m. to mid-day</description><pubDate>23 July 2010 16:50</pubDate></item><item><title>Youth Work</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Young_People</link><description>Sunday Mornings  Our normal pattern is for everyone across the age spectrum to share in opening worship in the chapel. The younger members of the congregation then go off to their own age-related groups facilitated by members of the congregation. Everyone joins up again after the service in the large hall for refreshments and relaxation.    Youth Group   Every eight weeks or so, the Youth Groups from a number of churches in the town (St Andrews, St Philips, Dronfield Baptist and the Oaks Community Church) join together for a Youth Celebration service. This is normally held on the second Sunday evening of alternate months, the location rotating round the churches.    Weekday Evenings  We offer a full range of Scouting and Guiding groups    Special events   An on-going programme of special events is arranged for young people associated in any way with the church. This ranges from evening trips through all-day events during school holidays to longer periods away.     Ways of getting involved  Young adults are currently involved in the life of the church in a variety of ways. Examples are:      Playing instruments in the music group that leads Sunday morning worship     Helping lead in uniformed organisations    Helping with IT in the church    Helping with crèche and other activities for children    Joining the canoe club     Helping with the work in the Lea Brook Valley     The puppet ministry</description><pubDate>23 July 2010 16:39</pubDate></item><item><title>Diversity and Equality</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Diversity_and_Equality</link><description>Diversity and Equality of Opportunities  At Dronfield Baptist Church we are committed to trying to follow the example Jesus set in the way He regarded people.  He treated all people with respect and offered to meet them in whatever way they would let Him. He never put barriers in people’s way and did whatever they would allow to remove any barriers.  To this end, with Jesus as example, we offer our services and activities to all who want to learn more about Him or want to join with those who know Him. All are welcome at DBC!  We have converted our premises to be wheelchair friendly on the ground floor – both access and toilet facilities.     In all our activities we endeavour to be inclusive but if you have any queries please ask and we’ll do our best to overcome any difficulties you anticipate.</description><pubDate>23 July 2010 15:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Later Years</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Later_Years</link><description>Monday Lunch at DBC    On alternate weeks a large group of over 60's meet to enjoy a two course meal andgood company at 12.15pm.Transport is provided for those who require it.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Notices</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Current_Notices</link><description>Sunday 23rd June  	  	  	      10.30 amCivic Service @ St John's  	  	  	      14.00 pmInduction Serviceof our new minister Rev. Andy Gore  	  	  	      Sunday 30th June  	  	  	      10.30 am John Seaman  Unlikely Biblical Heroes - Esther6.30 pmAcoustic ServiceA Time to come together and pray.Every  Monday between 7pm and 8pm at the church.On the second Monday in every month we have extended the prayer time till 9 pm to pray for the youth in the townand the Jesus Church projectPlease feel free to come  along any time, stay and leave at your    convenience.We will expect great things from God and  attempt great things for Him. (William Carey)</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Find Us</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Find_Us</link><description>FIND US    We are located in the centre of Dronfield opposite Sainsbury’s.     Postal Address: Stubley Lane, Dronfield, S18 1PE    Finding us by car  From Sheffield : Follow signs out of the city for A61 (south – signed Chesterfield). At the Meadowhead roundabout, continue on the A61 dual carriageway to the next roundabout. Take the second road off (B6057 ) signed Dronfield. After about half a mile at the first set of traffic lights, turn right. Immediately over the bridge, turn left (Wreakes Lane). After about half a mile you can turn left into the Sainsbury’s car park at the mini roundabout. You can park there and cross the road to the church.    From the M1 north: Leave M1 at Junction 33, follow signs to Sheffield (A 630 – dual carriageway).   At the third exit following signs for Ring road, going across a roundabout taking the A57 off to your left  Turn left onto dual carriageway Ring Road in the direction of Chesterfield (A6102)  Keep on for about five miles across multiple sets of traffic lights.   At the first (smallish) roundabout, go straight on following signs for Chesterfield  At next roundabout, take first off, onto single track road with Mormon church then housing estate on your right (B6057)  Go straight across next roundabout  Still with housing estate on right  At next roundabout, take first off, signed Dronfield (B6057)  At the traffic lights (half a mile), turn right.   Immediately over the railway bridge, bear left (Wreakes Lane). After about half a mile you can turn left into the Sainsbury’s car park at the mini roundabout. You can park there and cross the road to the church.    From Chesterfield  At the roundabout at the north end of the by-pass, take 3rd off, signposted A61 Sheffield  Ignore the turn-off after about half a mile signed Unstone and Dronfield – carry on up the hill on the A61 (Sheffield)  At the next roundabout (about 4 miles), leave the A61. Take the third off, signed Dronfield (B6057) coming back on yourself into Dronfield  At the traffic lights (half a mile), turn right.   Immediately over the railway bridge, bear left (Wreakes Lane). After about half a mile you can turn left into the Sainsbury’s car park at the mini roundabout. You can park there and cross the road to the church.    From M1 south  Leave the M1 at Junction 29 and follow signs to Chesterfield  At the end of the dual carriageway as you come into Chesterfield, bear right (3rd off) onto the A61, signposted Sheffield  At the first roundabout (by Tesco’s), follow signs for A61 (Sheffield) - i.e. keep straight on  At the next roundabout, take 3rd off, still signposted A61 Sheffield  Ignore the turn-off after about half a mile signed Unstone and Dronfield – carry on up the hill on the A61 (Sheffield)  At the next roundabout (about 4 miles), leave the A61. Take the third off, signed Dronfield (B6057) coming back on yourself into Dronfield  At the traffic lights (half a mile), turn right.   Immediately over the railway bridge, bear left (Wreakes Lane). After about half a mile you can turn left into the Sainsbury’s car park at the mini roundabout. You can park there and cross the road to the church.    Parking  Free parking is available in the Sainsbury’s car park  If you are using a satnav, the post code of the car park is: S18 1NW    We are allowed to drive onto the pavement outside the chapel - but solely for drop-off and pick-up.      Public Transport  Buses from Sheffield and Chesterfield: There are regular services but details (operators and times) change frequently. For current timetables, go to: www.derbysbus.info/times (for Sheffield links) or www.travelsouthyorkshire.com/timetables (for Chesterfield links)  Trains: trains stop at the Dronfield station roughly once an hour on the Sheffield - Chesterfield line. The chapel is about a ten minute walk up the gentle hill past the parish church and along Church St and High St.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>The Leadership</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=The_Leadership</link><description>The Church has about 130 members, and we have many other friends who are part of our wider community. It is part of our ethos that we all see ourselves as active members, each with enthusiasms, experience, gifts and attributes that can contribute to the life of the community.     Those currently in leadership are:    Minister  We currently have a ministerial vacancy[ minister@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk ]    Elders    Richard Armstrong Marilyn Fenn John SeamanChildren and Families CoordinatorJodie Thorpe  Secretary  Heather Machin [ secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk ]    Treasurer  Dean Thorpe     Deacons    Don Brennan Dave Charles Alan Evans  Ron Fenn Helen GriffinSteve PillarGill Smith</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Finding Faith</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Finding_Faith</link><description>Why would God bother with me?  How can I be forgiven?  Isn’t Christianity for good people?   Can God cope with my doubts and questions?  Who was Jesus?  Can I be cross with God?  Why does it matter what I believe?  Aren’t all religions the same anyway?      All these questions, and more, are far more common than you might think. If you are asking questions about the Christian faith or wondering if there’s anything ‘out there’ you might want to try the following:        Talking to a Christian friend who you trust    Going along to a church service    Emailing or telephoning the church and asking someone to get in touch with you    Praying    Finding an ‘Alpha’ or ‘Christianity Explored’ Course in your area. You can search for local courses by clicking on the links above.    Reading a book    Lots of information is also available on the following website:    www.rejesus.co.uk  The following webpage from the Christian Enquiry Agency also has links to other sources of information:    http://www.christianity.org.uk/links.php</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Links</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Links</link><description>Arocha www.arocha.org.uk    Baptist Union of England &amp; Wales www.baptist.org.uk    Baptist Men’s Movement www.baptistmen.org.uk/site/    Baptist World Alliance www.bwanet.org    BMS World Mission www.bmsworldmission.org    Canoe Club www.dbccc.wordpress.com     Christian Aid www.christianaid.org.uk    Churches Together in Dronfield &amp; District www.dronfieldtogether.org.uk    Eco Congregations www.econgregation.org    Evangelical Alliance www.eauk.org    Fairtrade www.fairtrade.org.uk    Open Doors www.opendoorsuk.org    Tearcraft www.tearfund.org/About+us+1/tearcraft    Tearfund www.tearfund.org    Yorkshire Baptist Association www.yba.org.uk</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>About DBC Introduction</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=About_DBC_Introduction</link><description>We are one of the Christian communities who worship God in Dronfield, although our congregation is drawn not only from the town but also from the surrounding area.     If you live or work in the town, you will probably have noticed the chapel opposite Sainsbury’s - that has been our home since 1872, when it was much more on the edge of the town than it is now. It’s a bit like the Tardis - behind the small chapel is a suite of rooms which provide space for a wide range of groups that meet during the week. You can find out more about what happens by going to the links at the side of this page.    What unites us as a community of Christians is a belief that there is a God, that he made our world and that the key to life is to put him at the centre of everything. Labels are not always very helpful, but if we had to have one, we would say that we are a fellowship standing in the Evangelical stream of church life. This means that we take the Bible seriously, believing that through its testimony we can hear God speaking to us today; and we believe that each one of us has to make a decision one way or the other about the claims he makes on our lives.     In common with all Christians, we are fascinated and captivated by Jesus, believing that in his life, his death and his resurrection from the dead, God dealt decisively with all the dark forces in this world and offers us all a new relationship with Him. It is an eternal relationship in which we can experience God’s forgiveness, acceptance and life.    We are pilgrims - each one of us is on a journey of discovery, trying to make sense of what life is about, learning more about God’s love for us and how he wants us to be.     We are sustained by the assurance that it is possible to enter into a personal relationship with God in the here and now, a relationship that is enriched by reading the Bible and through prayer, where we can share with our Heavenly Father both our deepest concerns and our everyday worries. We also realise that God does not ask us to follow Him on our own, and we look to our church community for teaching, support, welcome and encouragement - and we seek to offer the same in return.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>House of Puppets</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=House_of_Puppets</link><description>Puppets are a great way of communicating! Children are usually mesmerised and adults enjoy them too.     For several years, a small group in the congregation has been building up a puppet theatre. They often write their own scripts (some of which have won national awards) and are regularly asked to perform not only in our own church but also in other churches and locations across the local region.    The current group covers a very wide age range from children to well-past-retirement. They are always ready to welcome newcomers who would like to have a go at developing their skills in this art form.     There’s more to it than meets the eye! Each performance means that       scripts have to be chosen – or written    music has to be selected    scripts are recorded    the puppeteers have to be rehearsed    .... and on the day, roadies have to get the show set up.     If you are interested in finding out more and perhaps joining in, email secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk or phone 01246 291856.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Our Vision</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Children_and_Young_People</link><description>A lot of children and young people share in the life of the church in one way or another each week: some come to Sunday worship with their families whilst others take part in the mid week activities which are geared to different ages. As well as weekly programme, there are special events which are great for bringing friends to.  As members of the church, we commit ourselves to the nurturing, protection and safekeeping of all, especially children and young people. You can read the church’s policy statement on safeguarding children and young people in the church by clicking on the button on the left.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Worldwide Links</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Worldwide_Links</link><description>We take a strong interest in the work of the Christian church beyond our own doorstep. Many of our members and friends support particular agencies on a personal basis according to their particular interests and passions. Support comes in different forms, including being well informed, regular prayer and financial giving.     A few of our members have themselves served God in other countries either long term or for shorter periods. Countries include Bangladesh, Indonesia, Nepal, Bosnia, Zimbabwe and South Africa.    In recent years, we have helped fund a number of our young people who have gone on short term projects abroad to Brazil, Moldova, Malawi and the Philippines.    As a fellowship, we are particularly committed to the support of the following aspects of Christian mission    BMS World Mission - holistic worldwide mission [ www.baptistworldmission.org ]  As English Baptists, this is “our” mission. One of the earliest British overseas missions founded in 1792, its origins are closely linked in our minds with the work of William Carey, who went out to the Indian sub-continent as their first missionary. We have a particular link with Mike and Daveen Wilson, who work in the arid north east corner of Brazil. Mike is an agricultural specialist and has helped develop crops and farming techniques suited to the terrain. Daveen has helped establish a number of churches in the area. BMS World Mission employs its own staff in a number of countries but increasingly works alongside local Christians in the development of indigenous churches and aid projects.    Arocha - celebrating and preserving God’s creation [ www.arocha.org ]  We share with many a recognition that we cannot go on plundering our beautiful Planet Earth, God’s gift to us. We all have a responsibility for the way we use our wealth and resources. Arocha is a Christian organisation which focuses on environmental issues, establishing environmental projects and campaigning to create awareness of the issues. Through the work of some of our members, Arocha has been closely linked with the local Lea Brook Valley Project. In 2008, we were recognised as an Eco-Congregation.    Aquaid - focused help on one country  Aquaid is a Christian mission working in Malawi amongst some of the poorest communities in a very poor country. Through its educational and care work, it brings the good news of God’s love. One of our members has a strong link with Aquaid and some of our members have been to Malawi to offer short term help.     Christian Aid [ www.christianaid.org.uk ] Tearfund [ www.tearfund.org ]- help for the poor of the world  Support for these two agencies helps us put into practice the Biblical call that we act for the poor and vulnerable in our world. Both organisations offer emergency and longer term aid and also have a campaigning aspect to their work.    Fairtrade [ www.fairtrade.org.uk ] and Tearcraft [ www.tearfund.org/About+us+1/tearcraft ]- The Struggle for Justice  We have long had a commitment to Fairtrade. We have been recognised as a Fairtrade church and some of our members have been actively engaged in the campaign for the town to become a Fairtrade town. We recognise that fairtrade is a response to a wider concern about trade justice in a word in which resources and political power are catastrophically weighted against to poor.    Open Doors - Human Rights and the Suffering Church [ www.opendoorsuk.org ]  We are aware that Christians in many part of the world are suffering for their faith and do not enjoy the liberty of conscience that we do. We regularly bear them in mind in our times of prayer.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Volunteering</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Volunteering</link><description>Volunteers are a vital part of our church’s life – without them the church simply wouldn’t function! Many serve as part of their Christian commitment – the giving of time can be just as valuable as financial gifts. There are opportunities to help not just on Sundays, but throughout the week in all kinds of roles – some in the fore-front of the church’s work and many behind the scenes. Some get involved in functions at the church itself while others take part in activities organised by the church out in the community. Regardless of the role, all are equally important to us.    We always try hard to find the roles that best suit your gifts and the person God is calling you to be. There is never pressure to sign up to something you are not comfortable with.    If you are interested in working out where best you could serve, please email secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk so that we can discuss the opportunities with you.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Special Events</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Special_Events</link><description>Messy ChurchOur next Messy Church is on 2nd JulyThis is a time for all the family to come together, to enjoycreative time exploring a biblical theme with crafts, games, activities, a time of celebration involving story, prayer and songs, all followed by a meal for everyone!This will be at Dronfield Baptist Church (opposite Sainsbury’s) from 3.45pm until 6pm.For further information, please contact Jodie 07973 714989 / jodiethorpe@hotmail.com</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Babies and Toddlers</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Babies_and_Toddlers</link><description>We offer a warm welcome to babies young children and to those who bring them – be they family, friends or carers.    As members of the church, we commit ourselves to the nurturing, protection and safekeeping of all, especially children and young people. Please see the Keeping Yound People Safe tab for the church's policy statement on safeguarding children and young people in the church.    Sunday Mornings   A well appointed crèche is available during the morning service for the very young. It is staffed by members of our congregation, so that parents and carers can choose to stay with their children or return to the service.  Slightly older children under school age can join in with activities geared for their age group.    Parents and Toddlers  Drop-in groups for children under school age and their carers on Monday and Friday mornings between 9.30am and 11.30am. There is a small charge, primarily to cover refreshments.   An opportunity for the adults to relax and chat over light refreshments whilst the children play.  There are occasional special events around times such as Christmas, Easter and Harvest.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Jolly Crafters</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Jolly_Crafters</link><description>The Jolly Crafters are people with varying degrees of experience and expertise who get together to enhance their skills in papercrafting by producing things! For example, members have produced greeting cards, memory albums and gift boxes.    In the process they enjoy one another’s company and some light refreshments.    All the materials you need are provided; a small charge is made for each session attended to cover the cost.     You are very welcome to come along, whether a complete novice or an experienced crafter.    Sessions take place on the second Tuesday of each month (7:30pm) and the second Saturday (10.00am) in the church hall. You are welcome to as many sessions as you wish to attend.    For information email secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk or phone 01246 291856</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Prayer</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Prayer</link><description>To pray is to have a conversation with God. Believing that our loving Creator is always with us as our Heavenly Father, we trust that – like any parent - he is interested in every aspect of our lives from the most profound to the most trivial.     In prayer, we       thank and praise him for who he is and all he has given us    sort things out with him when we know we have them wrong    bring to him for his blessing those situations and people about whom we are concerned    seek his presence and blessing for ourselves    Prayer forms a central part of our life together – in our Sunday worship and on the other occasions when we meet. We regularly pray for our local community and for people known to us who are going through tough times.  Members commit to spend some time each day in personal prayer.    Prayer does not need any special sets of words or any different language than you would use with a close friend.   We can simply ask God to be in the situation that concerns us, pouring into it his love and healing.    If you would like to request prayer for yourself, for someone close to you, or for a situation, you can do this a number of ways.    We have regular prayer meetings once a month on the last Wednesday at 8pm and on the 3rd Saturday at 8am.    If you prefer you can send an email to our Secretary [ secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk ] or Minister[ minister@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk ] who will ask people at the church to pray for you or you can phone the church office on 01246 291856. If no-one replies, you can leave a message.    No-one will contact you unless you specifically ask us to.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Scouting</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Scouting</link><description>The aim of the national Scouting Association   To promote the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potential as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities.     They seek to achieve this aim by providing an enjoyable and attractive scheme of progressive training, based on the Scout Promise and Law, and guided by adult leadership.      The Scout Law  A Scout is to be trusted  A Scout is loyal  A Scout is friendly and considerate  A Scout belongs to the worldwide family of Scouts  A Scout has courage in all difficulties  A Scout makes good use of time and is careful of possessions and property  A Scout has self-respect and respect for others    The Scout Promise  On my honour, I promise that I will do my best  To do my duty to God and to the Queen  To help other people and to keep the Scout Law     We are the sponsoring church for the following groups:        Beavers Scouts (6 to 8) : Mondays from 5.15pm to 6.15pm    Cub Scouts (8 to 10 ½) : Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.45pm    Scouts (10 ½ to 14) : Fridays from 7.00pm to 9.00pm    Explorer Scouts (14 to 18) : Fridays at the Scout Hut on Wreakes Lane from 7.30pm to 9.30pm    There is a lot more to Scouting than the weekly meeting. There are opportunities for a variety of other activities (eg sport and camping) and Scouts can also get involved in the wider world of the Scouting movement, both national and international.    We see these groups as part of our extended community, and we extend regular invitations to them to take part in parade and other special Sunday services.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Membership</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Membership</link><description>Everyone who comes along to services or groups at Dronfield Baptist Church belongs in some way, and helps to contribute to the diverse life of the church. Many help with the activities and get involved through volunteering in different ways.    People who are committed to journeying with us as a church are encouraged to become members, being together like parts of a body. Being a member means fostering a sense of care for one another, demonstrating one’s faith with the whole church within the surrounding communities and wider world, and committing oneself to the ongoing discernment of how God is taking us forward as a local church.    These things are primarily done through being in a small group, being part of the Sunday gatherings and contributing to church meetings.    Those who become members commit to the following:     As a member of Christ’s Church, I promise, with His help        to spend some time each day in prayer and in Bible study.    to discover and obey His will.    to live a life true to the Christian principles of honesty, purity and love.    to give the highest priority to worship each Sunday in Church, to join in the celebration of the Lord’s Supper and to meet with others for prayer and Bible study.    to encourage, by my example, love and fellowship among the members of our Church and congregation and among Christians with whom I am in contact.    to play my part in the government of the Church, attending Church meetings and being loyal to Church decisions.    to set aside each week, for the Lord’s work, a portion of my income.    to share in the work and witness of the Church.    to support the work of mission at home and overseas.    to serve others in Christian love and to witness to them by word and deed so that they may be brought to faith in Christ.  If you would like to know more about becoming a member, email secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Home</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Home</link><description>WELCOME TO DRONFIELD BAPTIST CHURCHWe are a community of around 150 people covering the whole age range from nought to ninety plus.  We’re ordinary people from all walks of life, united in a belief that God’s love is an essential part of life, and that he wants us to share that love with those around us.   Our base is the chapel opposite Sainsbury’s car park in the heart of the town.  Our Sunday morning services are family worship at 10.30am and a more traditional evening service is at 6.30pm. We always make separate provision for children and teenagers during the morning service, including a crèche for the very young.  If you live in the area, are just moving in, or are passing through - you will have a warm welcome. You don’t need any special qualifications to come to Dronfield Baptist Church!  We have a range of activities for all. If you want to find out more about us, click one of the links on the left.  If you want to find out more about the Christian faith, would like someone to talk to or to pray with you, or need some sort of practical help, click on the contact link to get in touch with us - or phone one of the numbers below  Contact details: secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk    tel: 01246 291856Sunday 23rd June10.30 amCivic Service @ St John's14.00 pmInduction Serviceof our new minister Rev. Andy GoreMessy ChurchOur next Messy Church is on 2nd JulyThis is a time for all the family to come together, to enjoycreative time exploring a biblical theme with crafts, games, activities, a time of celebration involving story, prayer and songs, all followed by a meal for everyone!A Time to come together and pray.Every  Monday between 7 pm and 8 pm at the church.On the second Monday in every month we have extended the prayer timefrom 8 till 9 pm to pray for the youth in the town and the Jesus Church projectPlease feel free to come  along any time, stay and leave at your    convenience.We will expect great things from God and  attempt great things for Him. (William Carey)</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Baptism</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Baptism</link><description>Baptism is a work of art. It is a moving, interactive sculpture that recognises many different things in one moment. Going under the water is a dying to a worldview that has no room for God’s love and justice; it is an act of renouncing the power that past mistakes may have over us. Being brought out of the water is to mark a new way of living, willingly embracing the way of Jesus. It is neither the first step of faith nor the last, but a key milestone in a journey of becoming what God has intended.    If you are interested in being baptised, please contact email minister@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Small Groups</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Small_Groups</link><description>Small groups form a key part of the life of the church because they provide opportunities for people to explore issues of faith and life in the context of developing real relationships with one another.     We have a number of groups which meet for the most part every two weeks in homes across the whole area. Most meet in the evenings, but there are also a couple of day time groups. All the groups combine an opportunity to chat and share news over light refreshments, a brief time for shared prayer and space to reflect on how the Bible can be applied to daily life. They vary in size and some have different emphases in the approach they take; a recent development, for example, has been that of a group for adults in the 18-30 age range with a more contemporary approach to biblical exploration.   If you would like to join a small group, email secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Sundays</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Sundays</link><description>Sunday Mornings   Informal, friendly and welcoming.  Creche and groups for children and teenagers    This is our main weekly service, the time when we get together as a community. It usually lasts about one and a quarter hours. We are always delighted to welcome visitors.    If you are not used to “going to church” and think you might not feel comfortable, you can be confident that you can just slip in. You’ll get a welcoming handshake as you enter, then you can just blend into the crowd.    Our main purpose in coming together is to worship God. We celebrate the good news of Jesus and listen to what he has to say to us. Every service has the following elements:      Music We sing a mixture of traditional hymns and newer songs led as appropriate by our church organ and by our music group.    Prayer We come to offer God our praise and thanksgiving, to ask for his forgiveness and healing for things we have got wrong, and to bring our desires and concerns; these usually cover world and national issues, things going on in our local community, friends who are going through a hard time and our own personal needs.    God’s word We come to learn. We listen to readings from the Bible, and there is normally a talk about how we can apply the Bible to our lives today.  Our Minister takes overall responsibility for the planning of our worship, but a number of members of the congregation usually participate. We come together as a family, all sharing in the love of our one Heavenly Father.    On the third Sunday of each month, we celebrate the Lord’s Supper (sometimes known as Communion or Eucharist). In a very simple way, we are reminded of the Easter events that lie at the heart of our Christian faith - the way Jesus brought his disciples together, ate a meal with them and promised them his continuing presence even after his death on the cross for them. We listen to the story, give thanks and then eat bread and drink wine together. Everyone who seeks to follow Jesus is welcome to share this with us, recognising that this is a sacred moment and is a way for us to declare our desire to live as his disciples.    We are a lively community with lots going on. Inevitably this is reflected in our Sunday morning worship, and we frequently incorporate into our basic pattern one-off elements - pieces of news people want to share, participation by children and young people, musical items and so on.     And of course, we always have special services to mark the great Christian festivals - Christmas, Easter, Pentecost and Easter.    Children and Teenagers  We love to have younger people with us in our worship. We have lots of families with young children who worship with us regularly. Everyone shares in the first part of the service and then we go our separate ways. There is always a crèche for the youngest visitors and a number of age-related groups for those of school age, always with a central focus on learning about the Christian faith.    Although a crèche is always provided for very young children, during August - and on a regular basis throughout the rest of the year - we have a shorter ‘all age’ service when we all stay together throughout the service, worshipping and learning about God as a church family.   Parade services are also a regular feature of our Sunday morning programme, and we extend a particular invitation to those who are involved in our church’s uniformed organisations to join us on these occasions.    You don’t need to shoot off after the service…  There are always a couple of people available to share in prayer with anyone who wishes it. People often ask for prayer when they or people they know are ill or in some other form of distress.    We always offer refreshments - a great time for a chat and for us to get to know each other better.     Sunday Evenings    Communion  On the FIRST SUNDAY each month we meet together at 6.30. We share COMMUNION and PRAYER for our world, communities, families and friends, church and ourselves.    Tearoom Church   On the SECOND SUNDAY each month we have TEA ROOM CHURCH at 4 PM. We meet together around tables in the church and share tea, cake, and sandwiches. Before we go home there will often be the opportunity to sing some traditional hymns, to pray, and to listen to a short talk. If you would like to come but need a lift, please contact our Church Secretary who will try to arrange that for you.    Other Sunday Evenings  On the OTHER SUNDAYS we usually meet together at 6.30 pm. On these Sundays our meeting will often include prayer, songs, a reading from the Bible and a talk about how God is relevant to us today. Although we are flexible about the content of the service, it is often quieter, and more traditional than our morning service.    There is no separate provision for children in the evenings.      </description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Our History</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Our_History</link><description>During the 1840s, some of the members of the Congregational Church (meeting in what is now the Oaks Christian Fellowship at the bottom of Church Street) came to the view that baptism was meant to be reserved for those who had made a conscious and deliberate decision to follow Jesus Christ. They made contact with a Baptist church at Townhead Street in Sheffield and were baptised there. For a time they continued happily as members of the Congregational fellowship. Eventually, however, the theological differences put a strain on personal relations and in 1846 about fifteen of them left to form their own Baptist group as a daughter church of Townhead Street.    Initially they met for worship in hired rooms until they were able to build their own chapel in what is now known as Dronfield Bottom. Within a few years, however, the land was purchased for the new railway line and the community had to revert to rented rooms. The site of the present chapel was obtained in 1870 and the chapel opened in 1872. The first act of believers baptism took place in November of the same year. In 1892, two students from Cliff College led a mission which led to considerable growth. One of the students, Rev C J Rendell, stayed on as the first minster of the growing community.     The Baptist chapel played a significant role in the life of the town throughout the first half of the twentieth century. For many young people, it was the spiritual and social “hub” of their lives. At times, some 300 children attended the Sunday School; the building behind the chapel had to be extended and a balcony had to be installed. Financially, life was always a struggle and there were periods when the members could not afford to pay for a minister and had to depend on lay preachers and lay leadership. However, there was always a core of faithful and committed Christians who carried on the worship and work of the church.    As the new housing estates transformed the town in the 1970s, so the church grew not only in numbers but also in its activities. It maintained a full range of uniformed organisations for young people and played an active part in the development of friendly relationships between the churches in the town.     When the chapel was built, it must have been somewhat on the edge of the village centre. We now find ourselves very much at the heart of the town; we are glad, for example, to be able to host Thursday morning coffee mornings for shoppers and to host events for the town’s Christian community. Whilst we still have a Dronfield focus and most of us live in the town, we are finding that an increasing proportion of our congregation live beyond its confines in surrounding communities.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>The normal week at DBC</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=The_normal_week_at_DBC</link><description>COME AND JOIN US    Sunday services are just a fraction of what goes on.    Monday  Parents and Toddlers 9.30am – 11.30am  Over 60's Lunch Club &amp; Fellowship12.15 mid-day - 2.00pm (Fortnightly)     Beaver Scouts5.15pm – 6.15pm (6-8 years old)       Cub Scouts   6.30pm – 7.45pm (8-101/2 years old)                Fellowship Prayers 7.00pm - 8pmTuesday  House Group          8.00pm (see church notices)  Jolly Crafters             7.30pm – 9.30pm(2ndTuesday of the month)(paper crafting for adults)  Wednesday  Rainbows   6.00pm – 7.00pm  (5-7 years old)   Guides    7.15pm – 8.30pm  (9-13 years old)  House Groups 10:00am; 2:00pm; 8:00pm (see church notices)    Thursday  Coffee mornings 10.00am – 12.00 mid day  welcome to all   Brownies   6.00pm – 7.30pm  (7-9 years)House Group 8:00pm (see church notices)  Friday  Parents and Toddlers 9.30am – 11.30am  Scouts   7.00pm – 9.30pm (101/2-14 years old)   Explorer Scouts 7.30pm - 9.30pm (14-18 years old) - at Wreakes Lane Scouts Hut    Saturday    Jolly Crafters 10.00am – 12.00 mid-day (2nd Saturday of the month)        Second Wednesday of the Month      ChurchMeeting:open toall  </description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Some of our commitments</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Some_of_our_commitments</link><description>Our beliefs have led us to work towards two awards    We are a Fairtrade Congregation    This means that we have committed to:      Using Fairtrade tea and coffee after services and in all meetings for which we have responsibility    Moving forward on using other Fairtrade products such as sugar, biscuits and fruit    Promoting Fairtrade during Fairtrade Fortnight and during the year through events, worship and other activities whenever possible    If you have been to our Thursday coffee mornings, you may have seen the regular Fairtade stall there.        We are an Eco Congregation    Eco-Congregation is an ecumenical programme helping churches make the link between environmental issues and Christian faith, and to respond in practical action in the church, inthe lives of individuals, and in the local and global community [ www.econgregation.org ] .     Dronfield Baptist Church is an Eco Congregation Church and received its first award in 2009.   To achieve the award we had to show that we had undertaken activities in each of the three areas to be assessed –     1 Made the link between the Christian faith and our environmental concerns.  2 Taken practical action in the church and/or church grounds.  3 Had a positive impact on and/or worked with their local or the global community.  We have undertaken a variety of activities including a preaching series on ‘Jesus and the earth’, a Holiday Club for children with an environmental theme, placing water savers in each toilet in the Church, organising recycling in a more structured way, and being part of the Lea Brook Valley Project.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Girl Guiding</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Girl_Guiding</link><description>The aim of GirlGuiding UK  To enable girls and young women to develop their potential and to make a difference to the world    Guiding provides a safe, girl-only space to explore the activities, issues and possibilities that are available to girls today.     The Five Essentials of Guiding       Working together in small groups    Encouraging self-government and decision-making    A balanced and varied programme    Caring for the individual    Sharing a commitment to a common standard    The Guide Promise  I promise that I will do my best:  To love my God,  To serve the Queen and my country,  To help other people and  To keep the Guide Law      We are the sponsoring church for the following groups:        Rainbows (5 to 7) : Wednesdays from 6.00pm to 7.00pm    Brownies (7 to 9) : Thursdays from 6.00pm to 7.30pm    Guides (9 to 13) : Wednesdays from 7.15pm to 8.30pm      There is a lot more to being a Rainbow, Brownie or Guide than the weekly meeting. There are opportunities for a variety of other activities (eg sport and camping) and you can also get involved in the wider world of the Guide movement, both national and international.    We see these groups as part of our extended community, and we extend regular invitations to them to take part in parade and other special Sunday services.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Community Involvement</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Community_Involvement</link><description>By no means everything that we do takes place on church premises. Many of our members give their time on an individual basis to organisations and activities that enhance the well being of the community. As a fellowship, we have a particular interest in the following, all of which involve groups of our members:    Lea Brook Valley Environmental Project  The Lea Brook Valley project began in 2005 as an initiative by one of our members. Its aim is to enhance the beauty, amenities and wildlife habitat of this valley which runs through the centre of the town for the benefit of the residents and the wildlife. There are plans for the future too: a new wildflower meadow will be seeded and the wetland area made more hospitable to the birds, frogs, toads and newts which already live there. There are close links with the Dronfield Town council and several local groups.    Volunteers meet on the first Thursday of every month at 9-30am at the Recycling Bins in the car park next to the Sports Centre. They spend a couple of hours litter picking and then those who wish go for a coffee together.  A workday is organised three or four times a year and is well publicised.    The Jesus Church formerly called The Jesus Bus   The Jesus Church is an outreach project, helping young people to realise their potential.It is supported by Churches Together in Dronfield and District and has been running for four years.As well as the churches, individuals have donated to the project.The bus is now no longer with us and the young people have renamed the project 'The Jesus Church'. They are aged 13 -17 and meet every Friday night at the Baptist Church from 8 to 10 pm. It provides a safe environment for the young people to meet rather than wandering the streets and is staffed by volunteers from the churches. The youngsters play small games, listen to music and chat, enjoying hot and cold drinks and snacks.Sainsbury's kindly provide milk and drinks.We have had many good discussions on issues important to teenagers and this has given us the opportunity to share our faith when appropriate.Last summer we had a barbecue in a local park, sharing with over 100 young people. In the future we hope to hold further large events.Thank you to all who have supported this vital work, with finance, prayer or the gift of time.If you would like more information or to be involved in the project please contact us our Church Secretary.    Fairtrade status for Dronfield  The Fairtrade Towns initiative is an exciting project to develop support for the Fairtrade Mark, the UK’s independent guarantee that producers have had a better deal. A Fairtrade Town, City or Zone is a community which has made a commitment to supporting Fairtrade, and through it to support disadvantaged farmers and workers in developing countries.     One of our members coordinates a group of volunteers who campaigned to make Dronfield a Fairtrade Town, a goal achieved in the early part of 2010. The Group is fully supported by Dronfield Town Council and CTDD (Churches Together in Dronfield and District) and has organised special events, visited businesses and organisations, involved local schools and challenged supermarkets, shops and cafes.    For more information on any of these projects, go to www.dronfieldtogether.org.uk or email secretary@dronfieldbaptist.co.uk</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item><item><title>Music</title><link>http://www.dronfieldbaptist.co.uk/App_Pages/CMS.aspx?id=Music</link><description>Music is an important part of our worship, and no service would be complete without an opportunity to sing together. Whilst we do occasionally sing well-loved traditional hymns, we also include worship songs with a more modern feel to them. Those who have not visited a church for a long time might be surprised!    We are led by a group of musicians who currently contribute their gifts with flute, guitar, drums, saxophone, clarinet, piano, organ and voice.     They meet together to practise on Thursday evenings at 7.45pm. Inevitably the process of rehearsal helps create a real sense of co-operation and friendship. They are always ready to offer a welcome to others who would like a way of sharing in the joys of music-making.    A number of children in the church are learning instruments and opportunities arise for them to get together and take part in the context of services.</description><pubDate>15 July 2010 13:53</pubDate></item></channel></rss>