 Click to see collage |
To end 2007 a New Year's Eve social event was organised by Songster Leader Wes Carroll with games, quizzes, food, karaoke and great company. The evening was packed with fun and laughter, as well as being an opportunity to encourage local folk to sample our friendly church on a very informal basis. As midnight crept up, a Watchnight Service was held, and this spiritual family saw in the New Year with a prayer of thanks for God's faithfulness, and praise for whatever He has in store for 2008! December 2007 |
|
Christmas Day 2007
This year over 60 meals were served as guests from the communities within Hythe, Dymchurch and Romney Marsh came on Christmas Day for food, friendship and some fun as well! The hall was full, adding to the festive atmosphere, and the small kitchen was humming with activity. The day started with a service of Christmas Praise at 11am, wherein the meaning of the occasion was emphasised before those staying for the day sat down for a 4-course dinner, followed by 'breath-taking' entertainment, and then transported home along with a bag of goodies. Captains Phil & Karen would like to thank everyone who made this day possible and so successful - you know who you are! - and we pray for God's blessings upon you in 2008! December 2007 |
|
 Click to see photos |
Once again the band were presented with an opportunity to share the Christmas message from within a stable at the Rare Breeds Centre, with carols, jokes, a Christmas thought, and the customary animal noises and smells too! December 2007 |
|
Traditional Christmas Services!
This year Captain Karen Layton introduced the Christingle to our growing number of children within our services. (see video) She spoke from Isaiah's prophecy (9:6) regarding Jesus' names; Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, and how the red ribbon around the orange signifies that Jesus died for the whole world, the candle demonstrating that He is therefore the only Light of the world, through whom we have salvation. Then, in the evening, Bandmaster Richard Carroll led our annual traditional Town Carol Service, featuring the Shepway Gospel Choir (join up!), and including many of our much loved Christmas carols. The hall was filled and the response was superb, with full-throttle singing, good music, and a short message from Captain Phil Layton emphasising that God kept His promise by sending Jesus. December 2007 |
 Click above to see a collage of photos taken from the traditional evening carol service. |
 Click to see photos  Click to see photos  Click to see photos Click here to see a short video of the band caroling in the High St. |
As a part of the Christmas season the brass band from the Salvation Army at Hythe undertakes many caroling engagements. A selection of these have been included here, with photos from Christmas caroling in Canterbury, Saltwood, Dover Town hall, and a short video from Hythe High Street. On each occasion, our hope and prayer is that the music will bring to mind well known words which depict the true meaning of Christmas - that God came in the flesh, born as a baby, to reconcile us to Him. In addition, of course, we enjoy plenty of fun, laughter, fundraising opportunities, and moments for seasonal Gospel thoughts too. December 2007 |
|
Christmas Spectacular 2007
Despite some extremely wet, cold, and windy conditions, the annual Christmas Family Funday hosted by the Chamber of Commerce went ahead as planned, and, somewhat bravely, the band from The Salvation Army, Hythe Corps led the outdoor community carol singing beneath the Town Hall in the High Street. While much of the planned open-air programme had to be put aside due to the wild weather, the band, led by Bandmaster Richard Carroll, provided plenty of festive cheer to passers-by under their umbrellas and, hopefully, a reminder of the meaning for the season. Amazingly, the turnout was very encouraging, especially from our own church, signifying the importance of the event and the family-fellowship which we share. Both the local MP, Michael Howard, and the Mayor of Hythe, Alan Ewart-James, joined in the event and stayed for mince pies afterwards! December 2007 |
|
|
Toddler Christmas Carol Service 2007
The only people with room to move seemed to be the little people running in and out of chairs and legs! The laughter, singing, wonder, and anticipation of the children as the Christmas story was told in engaging fashion by Captain Karen Layton, also had the effect of reaching out to the grown-ups. This service is held specifically with the Parent and Toddler groups in mind, and we thoroughly enjoying having them as a part of our church. As usual, a traditional nativity scene was created as the children dressed according to the Bible story we celebrate. December 2007 |
Click me for a video excerpt! *** |
|
Another Posh Corps Social Event
at The Grand Hotel "We are in danger of setting a new 'tradition'!" That was one sentiment, shared by many who came along to this social event for friends and members of Hythe Corps, held within the very elegant surroundings of the Grand Hotel, Folkestone. Tea, coffee, handmade scones and biscuits were savoured while the atmosphere and terrific company was amazing, with everyone relaxed after another very busy year. 2007 has been another exciting year for the church, seeing new people come into fellowship, new ideas tried and tested, whilst making good use of the old, established styles and methods of getting the Gospel message heard. For a great year - we thank you Lord! November 2007 |
 |
|
2 more Adherents
find a spiritual home at Hythe Salvation Army Celebrations were in order at Hythe Corps when 2 more Adherents were enrolled, Len and Brenda, and praise and thanks was given for God's faithfulness toward the Corps Prayer. Brenda has been coming to the Corps for a few months, and testified that the moment she walked into The Salvation Army at Hythe, she felt she was a member of our spiritual family. She confirmed that the warmth of welcome and the Spirit-filled atmosphere were like powerful magnets to her. Len has been coming to the services for over 18 months, and in his testimony he thanked God for His provision of a spiritual home, for the support he has received, and the way in which this church has helped him to understand God's intimate love for him personally. During Len's witness he spoke of darker days, through which God has led him to the light which is Jesus Christ, and how his whole life has been, and continues to be, transformed by God's work and through His timing. Corps Officer Captain Karen Layton led the service which was aptly themed 'Seasons of Life', while Captain Phil led the enrolments, and Recruiting Sergeant Robert Washford will now be guiding Len through classes toward Soldiership. September 2007 |
|
| Wednesday Club 2007 Garden Party As the Wednesday Club drew to a close for the month of August, its members met for a cream tea in the Captains' garden. Delicious scones were made by one of the members for the occasion, and in an incredibly wet summer the weather was very kind indeed! It was a perfect day for the Captains' garden party, which is an annual tradition for the club. The club restarts from the first Wednesday in September (5th), 2:30pm at the hall, and runs throughout the year until the end of July. If you, or someone you know, would like to come and try this friendly club, then either just turn up, or contact Captain Phil for details on: 01303 268792 - captain@hythesalvationarmy.org.uk July 2007 |
 |
|
~~~~~ 8 Lake Challenge 2007 ~~~~~ For full details of this event, what it involved, photos taken, and a news report ~ click here! July 2007 |
|
Maidstone Salvation Army Brass Band
As a "Thank You" to the community of Hythe and the surrounding districts Bandmasters Richard Carroll and Keith Thomas organised the visit of the brass band from The Salvation Army at Maidstone Corps. As well as an event to show gratitude, the weekend brought good music, strengthened friendships between corps, and opportunities to engage with the good folk who came to listen. After weeks of rain and cloud, the weather for the weekend was simply superb, enabling unhindered parades throughout the High Street and among the houses, 2 bandstand events, and a mini-concert outside the Town Hall in Hythe High Street (see photo). At each of these outreach events many people lined the streets and well over 200 came to the Sunday bandstand. In addition the band performed a Saturday night festival at the Methodist Church and led the morning service at our own church in Portland Road. The Deputy Mayor provided a civic welcome in which the mutual understanding and bond between the local Corps and the community was emphasised. A great deal of work and preparation went into the event both at Maidstone and at Hythe (with the Captain's sincere thanks to all involved), but the result was a God-glorifying weekend of fine music and evangelistic opportunities...which were taken! July 2007 |
|
 Click to see photos |
While the heatwave of July 2006 deterred the vast majority of members last year, this year we had to contend with unseasonal thunder storms and showers...but the atmosphere inside was warm and light, as Maureen described life's journey in practical ways, going on to relate how in our spiritual lives, too, we sometimes need to assess the 'baggage' we might be carrying around unnecessarily. As usual, the rally ended with superb homecooked refreshments and tea. If you know someone who might like to come along to a fun, friendly afternoon with good company, clean jokes, refreshments and trivia, then send them along to our Wednesday Club, which restarts in September, every Wednesday at our hall in Portland Road, from 2:30 - 3:40pm, for just 25p per week. Contact Captain Phil for more details - or just turn up! July 2007 |
|
Churches Unite for 800th Anniversary Celebrations
As a continuation of the special relationship between The Salvation Army at Hythe Corps and the Church of England's Saltwood Parish, salvationists played a prominent part in the 800th Anniversary celebrations of St Peter and St Paul's church, Saltwood. The celebrations took place over a weekend, reaching a climax with a united churches service held in the open grounds of Saltwood Castle, where, accompanied by numerous peacocks and surrounded by magnificent scenery, The Salvation Army joined in with the estimated 500 worshippers and contributed through song, brass, and Bible reading. After the service the Hythe Corps band held a concert in the grounds to the delight of the attendees who had brought picnics and refreshments, and played a variety of pieces including 'Tomado de la mano', an arrangement of 'Fewster', and 'Battle Cry'. The newly appointed Right Reverend John Pritchard, Bishop of Oxford, gave the message and afterward enjoyed another new 'appointment' as he conducted the band while they played 'Sword and Shield'. (See photo). June 2007 |
Watch Videos: 1 - Southern New England (Band Piece) 2 - Various Hymns and Venue (Congregational) |
 Click to see photos |
Captain Mark Rose, of Folkestone Corps led the relief team which acted as a vital source of refreshment, shelter, and a listening ear for around 400 local residents as well as to other rescue personnel. Click here for a BBC news report Click here for a Salvation Army UKT report The response continued throughout the night, and Hythe Corps were asked to supply help in the form of 3 volunteers to run the kitchens. Songster Leader Wes Carroll and Bandmaster Richard Carroll responded immediately to Hythe Corps officer, Captain Phil Layton's request for help, and the three of them were briefed by the Folkestone crew before engaging in service. Despite the local situation, those in need of refreshment and a listening ear voiced appreciation for the 'unusual' way in which the 3 volunteers set about their task - raising the spirits of those who had been helping all day. April 2007 |
| The Easter Message is simply too good to keep to ourselves! There was yet another effective and encouraging outdoor service in the High Street on Good Friday, led by the Churches Together in Hythe and Saltwood. The theme was on Jesus' words, 'It is finished!', with an emphasis on our belief that salvation (being made right with God) is a gift that He has given us, made possible through Jesus' death, and attainable only through faith alone. Then the Methodist and URC congregations came back to our hall in Portland Road to join us for our usual Good Friday time of reflection, a powerful hour of song, contemplation, and reaction to what Jesus Christ went through on our behalf. But that was only half the story... Just as the message of Good Friday was too powerful to keep indoors, so on Easter Sunday we flung the doors open so that all passers-by could hear the songs of praise and celebration that thundered from our worship as we gloried in the risen Christ! Thanks to a superb last-minute suggestion by one of our members, we even went out to the canal bank and sang the Easter hymn ('Christ the Lord is risen today') accompanied by our versatile band. What a perfect Easter; time for reflection, time for praise, and a time to demonstrate that we're not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ! April 2007 |
|
| 6 new Adherents at
Hythe Salvation Army Our church is growing....and we Praise the Lord for answering our prayers by sending people into our fellowship, and preparing us to be blessed as a spiritual family here in Hythe. While everyone who worships with us is truly cherished and already clearly 'belongs', it is never-the-less a cause for celebration when folk decide to formally adhere to The Salvation Army's mission and local worship. In declaring their faith in Jesus Christ, 6 new Adherents were publically enrolled; Hannah Simms, Barry Allen, Joanna Simms, Anne Goodfield, Heather Knivett and Ted Knivett. Recruiting Sergeant Robert Washford and Captain Phil Layton are also pictured. Joanna and Heather testified to God's leading in their lives, to the Spirit filled worship they enjoy at Hythe Corps, and to the friendship they have received here. Thank You God for what You're doing among us....continue to shape us, direct us, protect us and bless us we pray....in Jesus' name Amen! March 2007 |
|
|
Click to see photos |
Captain Mark Rose, of Folkestone Corps led the relief team which acted as a vital source of refreshment, shelter, and a listening ear for around 400 local residents as well as to other rescue personnel. Click here for a BBC news report Click here for a Salvation Army UKT report The response continued throughout the night, and Hythe Corps were asked to supply help in the form of 3 volunteers to run the kitchens. Songster Leader Wes Carroll and Bandmaster Richard Carroll responded immediately to Hythe Corps officer, Captain Phil Layton's request for help, and the three of them were briefed by the Folkestone crew before engaging in service. Despite the local situation, those in need of refreshment and a listening ear voiced appreciation for the 'unusual' way in which the 3 volunteers set about their task - raising the spirits of those who had been helping all day. April 2007 |
| The Easter Message is simply too good to keep to ourselves! There was yet another effective and encouraging outdoor service in the High Street on Good Friday, led by the Churches Together in Hythe and Saltwood. The theme was on Jesus' words, 'It is finished!', with an emphasis on our belief that salvation (being made right with God) is a gift that He has given us, made possible through Jesus' death, and attainable only through faith alone. Then the Methodist and URC congregations came back to our hall in Portland Road to join us for our usual Good Friday time of reflection, a powerful hour of song, contemplation, and reaction to what Jesus Christ went through on our behalf. But that was only half the story... Just as the message of Good Friday was too powerful to keep indoors, so on Easter Sunday we flung the doors open so that all passers-by could hear the songs of praise and celebration that thundered from our worship as we gloried in the risen Christ! Thanks to a superb last-minute suggestion by one of our members, we even went out to the canal bank and sang the Easter hymn ('Christ the Lord is risen today') accompanied by our versatile band. What a perfect Easter; time for reflection, time for praise, and a time to demonstrate that we're not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ! April 2007 |
|
| 6 new Adherents at
Hythe Salvation Army Our church is growing....and we Praise the Lord for answering our prayers by sending people into our fellowship, and preparing us to be blessed as a spiritual family here in Hythe. While everyone who worships with us is truly cherished and already clearly 'belongs', it is never-the-less a cause for celebration when folk decide to formally adhere to The Salvation Army's mission and local worship. In declaring their faith in Jesus Christ, 6 new Adherents were publically enrolled; Hannah Simms, Barry Allen, Joanna Simms, Anne Goodfield, Heather Knivett and Ted Knivett. Recruiting Sergeant Robert Washford and Captain Phil Layton are also pictured. Joanna and Heather testified to God's leading in their lives, to the Spirit filled worship they enjoy at Hythe Corps, and to the friendship they have received here. Thank You God for what You're doing among us....continue to shape us, direct us, protect us and bless us we pray....in Jesus' name Amen! March 2007 |
|
|
Once again The Salvation Army at Hythe Corps enjoyed a cosily packed hall as family members came to support the young folk who are a part of the KidZone, a thriving Sunday school for 3-12yrs led by YPSM Wendy Margott. Youth Leaders Steve and Karen Chambers (Llanelli Corps) came especially to lead the service which was full of appealling worship songs and illustrations for the younger generation who are such an important and valued part of the spiritual family here. In a 'banana challenge', Steve asked volunteers to peel, slice, and then fully repair bananas, illustrating the main theme which was that Jesus Christ is the great healer, able to heal our emotional and spiritual hurts. "Prizes" were given to the children such as Christian books, puzzles and DVDs which we hope will be refered to time and time again as they grow in the faith of Jesus Christ. After the service KidZone stayed for games. January 2007 |
 |
 Click to see collage of photos Video Footage: 1
- As we are gathered (all)
2 - Lord I come to You (all) 3 - Total Praise (songsters) 4 - His name be glorified (SGYC) 5 - You are holy (SGYC) 6 - Bible Reading (ministers) 7 - Walk upright (SGYC) 8 - Christian Unity? (part1) 9 - Christian Unity? (part2) 10 - Give God the glory! (SGYC) Would you like to join the Gospel Choir? |
United Churches
Service
January 2007 Hythe Corps of The Salvation Army were the hosts for this year's united service for the Churches Together in Hythe and Saltwood. Captain Phil Layton is the current Chair of the local council of churches, which comprises of leaders and representatives from the 6 churches (The Salvation Army, 2x Church of England, Methodist Church, United Reformed Church, and South Kent Community Church). The service was a celebration of the common mission 'to know Christ, and to make Christ known', and included a message by the Captain regarding the blessing of diversity and a challenge to resist distractions from proclaiming the salvation which is found only in Jesus (John 14:6). 1 Corinthians 12:4-27 was read by representative ministers. Highlights of the service included inspirational performances by the Shepway Gospel Youth Choir, the Salvation Army songsters and brass band, a farewell to the CTHS youth worker, complimented by the marvellous volume as the capacity congregation sang both devotional and toe-tapping songs. |
|
Christmas Day 2006
This year over 50 meals were served as guests from the communities within Hythe, Dymchurch and Romney Marsh came on Christmas Day for food, friendship and some fun as well! The hall was full, adding to the festive atmosphere, and the small kitchen was humming with activity. The day started with a service of Christmas Praise at 11am, supported by Mayor of Hythe Councillor Neil Matthews. From the start all the guests, volunteers and other attendees got well into the meaning of the occasion before those staying for the day sat down for a 4-course dinner, followed by 'breath-taking' entertainment, and then transported home along with a bag of goodies. Captain Phil would like to thank everyone who made this day possible and so successful - you know who you are! - and wishes God's blessings upon you in 2007! December 2006 |
 |
 Click to see collage of photos Click here to see a short video of the songsters perform an arrangement of 'Joy to the world' |
Christmas
Spectacular 2006
December 2006 Hythe Corps moved their indoor service out into the High Street for a third consecutive year by invitation of the Hythe Chamber of Commerce in order to commence their Family Fun Day in the presence of their Chairman, the Mayor of Hythe, and the local MP. With hundreds of folk either staying or drifting past within the space of 1 hour the Corps folk have found it to be an amazing opportunity which God has presented before us. Although it was extremely cold, and a rather early start, it was dry and sunny which encouraged many to stop and sing to the community carols and listen to the band led by Bandmaster Richard Carroll, then ponder a special Christmas message for the youngsters by Captain Karen Layton. The Songsters, whose leader Wes Carroll stage-managed the event, were a superb witness, not only in their musical message but also as a tool which drew attention to the unfolding nativity scene in the middle of the High Street, which consisted of some Corps Kidzone members, and a 6 month old baby laid in the manger called.....(wait for it)......Grace! Captain Phil Layton made use of the sensitive moment to challenge the onlookers to listen to what God may be saying to them this Christmas, clearly proclaiming the Gospel of Christ in the process. The whole event was a great success in terms of the Corps Mission, and complemented a series of Christmas articles written for the local paper while the Salvation Army has chairmanship of the district's Council of Churches. |
|
KidZone
Carol Service
(Sunday School) The Salvation Army Sunday School (KidZone) in Hythe is terrific fun!... ...and this year's children's carol service reflected the fun and confidence of this important part of our church as Corps members and families came and supported the youngsters. Led by Wendy Margott, the service included a timbrel item, individual music solos, prayers, poems, a carol played by the young people's band, and a nativity play in traditional costume, with baby Grace playing the part of Jesus. KidZone is not only enjoying a time of growth numerically, but also in strength of friendships and confidence, and we pray that there will continue to be spiritual growth too as we aim "to know God, and to make God known". December 2006 |
 |
|
A Rather Posh Corps Bash!
What a fantastic way to end the 110th Corps Anniversary year (1896-2006)... After an incredibly effective year of celebration and praise, Roy & Patricia Whitewood organised a super treat for the Corps folk as we sat in the comfort of the Grand Hotel, Folkestone, for cream teas and sandwiches, generously offered by the Manager due to the links and hard work of the Whitewood's grandaughter, Natasha. Furthermore, Steve, the in-house pianist, played delightful music as we passed time away, nibbling and chatting, and baritone David Steed was also on hand to sing a few favourites too. Everyone joined in the spirit of things, visibly relaxed, if well dressed, and the whole afternoon was simply described by Captain Phil as "Perfect!" |
 |
|
 |
| Hythe
Corps Band in the Park & Harvest Celebrations With the great story of David and Goliath as the theme, the Corps celebrated Harvest in a fun and friendly way involving the children from KidZone, while maintaing those traditonal elements which make the celebration so memorable. Then, in the afternoon, Bandmaster Richard Carroll compered a musical treat as the band performed on the local park's bandstand for the last live outdoor concert of the season. Interspersed with good humour, the music included solo items, devotional pieces, rousing, inspirational music and a tribute to the Last Night of the Proms, during which the flags were heartily waving! September 2006 |
|
| 8 Peaks in 3 days! Feeling exhausted, and foot-sore, but very satisfied, Captains Karen and Phil Layton (Hythe Corps) and YPSM Karen and Steve Chambers (Llanelli Corps) have returned from an 8-peak challenge in the Lake District. As part of a successful fundraising effort for the respective Corps they climbed England's 8 highest mountain peaks (the only ones over 3000ft) within 3 consecutive days on 27th-29th July, managing to 'bag' some other minor peaks in the process. The team have been training hard all year, and confess that the 3 days' of climbing, which covered over 20 miles horizontally accumulated over 23 hours, was very hard work, with painful and often quite scary moments too, and once or twice doubts arose as to the wisdom of continuing. But England's 8 highest summits were eventually conquered within the time-limit, helped along by perfect weather as the cold wind and clouds contrasted to the heat wave being experienced at ground level. The views were fantastic, occasionally blocked only by an Army flag! Between them the team raised around £1500. July 2006 |
|
| Wednesday fellowship
2006 Garden Party As the Wednesday Fellowship drew to a close for the month of August, members met for a cream tea in the Captains' garden. Talented bakers made scones for the occasion, and the weather hit incredible heights making us think of different ways to create adequate shade. It was a perfect day for the garden party, which is an annual tradition for the club. **Once folk had started making their way home, however, some of the helpers took the opportunity to have some fun (see photo!)** The club restarts from the first Wednesday in September (6th), 2:30pm at the hall. If you, or someone you know, would like to come and try this friendly club, then either just turn up, or contact Captain Phil for details on: 01303 268792 - captain@hythesalvationarmy.org.uk July 2006 |
 |
 See complete photo |
Swiftly following the more 'grown-up' nature of the 110th anniversary concert, Justin Reeves, editor of the weekly Salvation Army magazine for children 'Kids Alive!', came to Hythe Corps to lead a service designed completely for the KidZone (3-12yrs) which meets each week here for 90 minutes which includes refreshments, a Sunday school format, followed by games. The special service was perfect, engaging the youngsters with a series of short illustrations and action-choruses which, through their simplicity, gave the adults a different prespective on things too. Following the service KidZone and its leaders went to a nearby park for games, followed by a specially prepared Sunday dinner awaiting them back at the hall! <If you would like to know more about KidZone then contact Wendy, our Young People's Sergenat Major (Leader), by clicking here> July 2006 |
| Corps Cycle &
Picnic Following the excitment and busyness of a fantastic 110th anniversary concert, members of Hythe Corps got together for a gentle bicycle ride along Hythe's Royal Military Canal, meeting with non-cyclists at a rendez-vous point for drinks and sandwiches. Just the perfect way to enjoy each other's company, as well as some of the beauty of Hythe, while getting some exercise too! July 2006 |
|
| Hythe Corps 110th Anniversary
Celebrations with special guests Commissioners John & Elizabeth Matear Territorial Leaders of The Salvation Army in the United Kingdom Click here to see full size photos from the fantastic weekend plus a write-up of events! |
 See complete photo |
The latest gorgeous baby to be dedicated at Hythe Corps was Grace Elizabeth, daughter of Shauna and Wesley, in front of a packed hall of family members, close friends, and her spiritual family within the Corps fellowship too. As Wes and Shauna made promises to do their best to nurture Grace in all that is Christ-centred and God-honouring, the whole congregation stood in support and as an encouragement to know that this precious life will be prayed for and cherished by all. The Gospel Youth Choir, which Wes leads, sang in celebration of the new life, and Grace's brother, Harrison, was very happy to be a part of the ceremony too. June 2006 |
| Bexleyheath
Salvation Army Brass Band As a "Thank You" to the community of Hythe and the surrounding districts Bandmasters Richard Carroll and Derek Kane organised the visit of the brass band from The Salvation Army at Bexleyheath Corps. As well as an event to show gratitude, the weekend brought good music, a good friendships, and opportunities to engage with the good folk who came to listen. The weather for the weekend was simply superb, enabling unhindered parades throughout the High Street and among the houses, 2 bandstand events, and a mini-concert outside the Town Hall and another one on the seafront - the first in many years. At each of these outreach events many people lined the streets and well over 200 came to the Sunday bandstand. In addition the band performed a Saturday night festival at the Methodist Church and led the morning service at the Hythe Corps, Portland Road. The Mayor provided a civic welcome in which the mutual understanding and bond between the local Corps and the community was emphasised. A great deal of work and preparation went into the event both at Bexleyheath and at Hythe (with the Captain's sincere thanks to all involved), but the result was a God-glorifying weekend of fine music and evangelistic opportunities...which were taken! June 2006 |
|
 See complete photo |
On Good Friday, as per tradition, the Churches of Hythe met together for a joint outdoor service in Hythe Town Square. Bandmaster Richard Carroll led a silent walk of witness by beating his drum, drawing attention to the cross being carried as a reminder of the day's special significance. Then, half-way down the High Street, the Salvation Army band's beautiful melodies drifted through the crowds and into the hearts of worshippers, sending a tingle down the spine. Once at the Town Square, the worshippers, who came out in good numbers, congregated around the large cross, under which the band played, which in itself evoked plenty of meaning and power. As a part of the service, Captain Phil Layton preached on Jesus' words from the cross "It is finished!" - challenging all to rely on nothing but the blood of Christ to save us. Many folk felt that this service was one of the most effective of its kind in many years, but following refreshments back at the Corps, a most powerful and Spirit-filled hour of devotion was spent using Scripture, song, piano ministry, monologue, and multilmedia presentations. The atmosphere was spiritually charged, people were broken in gratitude for what Christ did for us on the cross, the mercy seat was used, and with the presence of the Holy Spirit still evident the pianist sensitively continued to play as the congregation gradually departed. April 2006 |
| A Passover Meal at
Hythe Corps This Easter, as a part of the ongoing 110th Anniversary celebrations, Corps folk and friends gathered together to learn about the Passover Meal which is so instrinsic to the Jewish faith (remembering their deliverance from Egyptian slavery), but also very significant to our Christian beliefs too, as it foretold the death of Christ. As a Corps social event, Pastor Gerry Cohen, a Messianic Jew (BMJA), provided the context, hymns, food and utensils to guide us through this important meal which Jesus Himself would have observed, and which indeed was the reason for His eating the 'Last Supper' with His disciples. Pastor Cohen noted the fact that all who ate the original 'Last Supper' were Jews, and that it is uncertain whether Jesus' words - to eat the bread in remembrance of Him - were intended for non-Jewish followers. The evening provided warm and relaxed company with sound teaching while we ate the Passover together and remembered Christ's love for us. April 2006 |
 |
 Click on these to see full size photos  Click here to see before/after difference (1.6Mb) |
"You still get the same wonderful welcome at Hythe Corps!" This was just one of the many encouraging comments made when our hall was back in use for the first time since major renovations, including disabled access, new toilets, rewiring and redecoration. The occasion coincided with Mothering Sunday, and the Worship hall was packed on this double celebration. The photos show the difference made to the main Worship Hall. March 2006 |
| 4th Annual United
Concert Celebrates 100 years of Hythe Salvation Army Band In a year which celebrates both the 110th anniversary of Hythe Corps, and the Centenary of its band, Richard Carroll, who has been the bandmaster for over 23 years, arranged the 4th Annual United Bands Concert featuring 'easy listening music' from Hythe Town Concert Band, and 'music with a message' from the Hythe Corps Band. As usual, these sections were extremely well received by the audience which included the Admiral Lord Boyce, Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, the Mayor of Hythe, and Chair of the Hythe Chamber of Commerce amongst several hundred other supporters. However, the buzz throughout the evening was concerning the Shepway Gospel Youth Choir, a recent initiative from Hythe Corps which is focused on 11-25 year-olds from all backgrounds who simply love to sing. Most of the members had never set foot inside Hythe Corps before, but now meet there regularly to sing about Jesus and become comfortable with our style and purpose. The idea came from Songster Leader Wes Carroll who manages, directs, and accompanies the group, giving their inaugural performance at the united concert with 4 Gospel songs. It was absolutely fantastic - and we now look forward to their next performance when the Territorial Leaders come to Hythe on July 8th/9th. Click on the photos to see them full-size March 2006 |
    |
 See full size |
On this wonderful morning the school hall was packed with supporters and families of our young folk, encouraging them and celebrating what God is doing for and through their lives. "Prizes" were given to the children such as Christian books, puzzles and DVDs which we hope will be refered to time and time again as they grow in the faith of Jesus Christ. February 2006 |
| We're in the
school! As hall improvements are being carried out at Hythe Corps, including better disabled access, new toilets, re-wiring and decoration, all its Sunday attendees have started worshipping in the school next door! The school has been very generous in letting us use their premises, and the spirit of salvationism was brought along with the people (as shown in the photo), proving that the body of Christ is not in the buildings, but in the people! January 2006 |
|
| See full size collage |
Christmas
Day Meals
December 2005
Nearly 50 meals were served once again as guests from the communities within Hythe and Romney Marsh came on Christmas Day for food, friendship and some fun as well! With a Christmas Day service at 11am, attended by Mayor Wendy Harris, the guests, volunteers and other attendees got well into the meaning of the occasion before being sat down for a 4-course dinner, followed by entertainment, and then transported home along with a bag of goodies. Captain Phil would like to thank everyone who made this day possible and so successful - you know who you are! - and wishes God's blessings upon you in 2006! |
|
For the first time we have photos of our annual outdoor carols at Appledore! This is held very close to Christmas day, with over 100 in attendance, with many carols, jokes, a Christmas message and prayers, and supported well by our own Corps folk too. A super occasion! December 2005 |
Click for full size collage |
| See full size photo |
Christmas
Carols in a Stable
December 2005
The annual Christmas Carols led by The Salvation Army band from Hythe Corps at the Rare Breeds Centre, Woodchurch, went extremely well once again this year. Yet again hundreds of parents and children braved the cold, draughty stable to sing and hear carols, enjoy timbrel displays (as well as have a go!), and put up with jokes which had been rejected by festive cracker producers. |
|
Christmas
Spectacular 2005
December 2005 Hythe Corps moved their indoor service out into the High Street for a second consecutive year by invitation of the Hythe Chamber of Commerce who were hosting a Family Fun Day. The bold move has caused other local churches to consider how they impact the local community too, and it is just amazing to consider what an opportunity God had presented before us. The Songsters were in great form, singing an arrangement by SL Wes Carroll of 'Joy to the world', and then later on a very sensitive and effective 'Come to the Cradle' as members of the Corps KidZone club came to the foreground to reenact the nativity scene. BM Richard Carroll led the band as they played some swinging and attractive pieces as well as accompanying favourite carols, while Captain Karen Layton provided a short thought for the youngsters and Captain Phil Layton used a short parable by Soren Kierkegaard to challenge the adults. The whole event was truly a team effort by all involved, and was well supported by the Corps congregation, who braved the cold, and in turn attracted many other shoppers and bystanders, estimated to total around 250. The morning was an incredible opportunity through which the Christmas message was presented clearly and attractively, and is a continuation of the Corps' desire to be efficient risk-takers in Jesus' name. |
|
|
Click for full size collage |
(Sunday School) One of the many blessings of having a growing Sunday School is that there is inevitably a larger attendance to support their annual carol service due to more families being represented. It is no surprise, then, that with a KidZone of 18 members over 80 people supported the children as they took part in a nativity play, timbrel items, Junior Singers, instrumental skills, carols played on glasses, and much, much more. Orchestrated by our Young People's Leader, Wendy Margott, the evening consisted of one item after another as Corps folk and families watched and enjoyed the performance which culminated with a message that there is no greater thing than knowing Jesus. December 2005 |
| Full House for
Toddler Christmas Carol Service Children running about, with shouts, laughter, uncertainty, a nativity scene with 5 month old baby Luke as Jesus, a story, present, many carols and a challenging Christmas message with mince pies and drinks to follow all came within the Toddler Christmas Carol Service led by Captain Karen Layton, and thoroughly enjoyed by all. The hall was simply packed (see photo) and, as usual, the atmosphere was terrific! December 2005 |
|
|
Click for full size |
