My name is Martin and I am the Children's, Youth and Families worker here at EBCC. I became a Christian when I was 18 through an alpha course, since then God has taken me on an amazing journey; he has provided me with so many experiences, opportunities and friendships along the way.

I am engaged to Kylie and am looking forward to being married to her later this year. I have worked in a variety of churches, schools and colleges both home and abroad, that have also included schools for behavioural issues, learning difficulties and the disabled.

I've done both church-based and detached youth work in the past and have a real passion to see young people making a difference in the world for Jesus. I am coming to the end of a degree in Applied Theology with Youth and Community work which has been a fantastic experience as I have seen how God's word can not only bring a joy and transformation to my own life but also can bring transformation to families and whole communities.

I like mountain biking, swimming, dancing if I have the chance, reading and just chilling out with my nearest and dearest. EBCC is a thriving and lively church, an absolute pleasure to work for; God's got amazing plans ahead for us and I'm very excited about working with Colin as we lead the church forward into the future.

Sunday 26th February

Please put Sunday 26th February in your diary when there will be a Special Celebration Service for Emily Chalke ( time to be advised).

Emily has been working with the Baptist Missionary Society on 'Nightlight' a jewellery company set up in Bangkok to employ women from the sex industry, helping to rehabilitate them, giving a worthwhile paid job, helping them to regain their dignity and self respect. Emily is back in the UK before going out to Central Asia so this is your opportunity to hear about the work she has been doing.

Spring Holiday Club  10 - 13 April

Spring Holiday Club will be from 10th - 13th April and the All Age Family Service will be on Sunday 15th April.

The theme will be based on the 2012 Olympics so helpers coming to the planning meeting on 8th February please come with lots of ideas. More helpers from the Church are needed so please have a word with Mary if you think you can help.

Lenten House Groups 27 February - 26 March

This year's ecumenical course 'Holding the Torch' is the latest York course with a theme based on the 2012 Olympic Games. The course runs from 27th February - 26th March.

Application forms to join a group are available in Church or you can enrol on line by downloading a form from the website www.ctie.org.uk. Forms must be completed either online or by hand by 12th February to be included in arranged groups.

Both daytime and evening groups are planned as well as the 'corporate' house group at St Martin's on Friday lunchtimes 12 noon to 2pm at which lunch will be available. More information available on the Churches Together website www.ctie.org.uk'

Craft Night for Ladies 29 February

We are planning another Craft Night for Ladies on Wednesday 29th February in the Church Hall at 7.30pm. More information nearer the time. We hope you will be able to come and bring your friends along.