Manx Radio's Praise

Churches have now stopped all public worship services, to avoid the spread of the corona virus, so we're launching a new programme here on Manx Radio. Starting on Sunday 29 March, AT YOUR SERVICE will be an ecumenical act of worship - presented each week by at least two different denominations, blending music, a Bible reading, reflections, thoughts and a time of prayer - and maybe some folk will share stories of their faith journey too - In fact, all the elements of a church service - but in a radio programme! We'd love you to choose a hymn or some sacred music which is meaningful to you, and, as many people are now self-isolating, or practising social distancing, could you invite friends to listen 'together' and in that way be united by sharing the programme, each in your own home? AT YOUR SERVICE will be available as a podcast, to download or listen via our website - and on PRAISE today we preview the style and content of the new programme with help from two Methodist ministers - Rev'd Steve Ingrouille and Rev'd Andy Fishburne. There's plenty of music, too, and testimony, as Scripture Union Ministries Trust Schools Worker Hannah Grove takes a look at her own faith journey, and explains what really matters in her life now. The new programme will be at the later time of 9.30am, to bring it closer to the time when church services would normally be starting - we look forward to living faith together - AT YOUR SERVICE!

Rev Daniel Norris was born and educated on the Island before leaving to study modern foreign languages and theology first at Durham and then at Cambridge Universities. In 2015 he was ordained priest in the Church of England, and now serves in the Diocese of London, where he is part of the ministry team at St James's Church in Piccadilly. He is also Executive Head Teacher of St Jerome's Church of England Bilingual School in Harrow. He visited the Island at the invitation of the Island Spirituality Network, to lead a morning, reflecting upon what It might mean for us to 'live a Eucharistic life' - to be 'blessed, broken, and given' to the world. On PRAISE today, Daniel explains what that means, and we hear a response from leaders of other Christian denominations as they share thoughts on the difficult issues that have to be faced on the road to unity. Daniel also talks about the joys and challenges of leading a bilingual school, and why it's equally attractive to pupils, parents and teachers - PLUS - there's music too!

Today is International Women's Day so it's appropriate that PRAISE should feature two very different women, linked by their deep faith. The Rt Reverend Dr Emma Ineson, Bishop of Penrith, made history when she became the first woman to hold the position of Central Chaplain to the Mothers' Union, making her in charge of the spiritual care of Mothers' Union staff and members in the UK. She brings a wealth of experience, and her passion for Mothers' Union is evident as she talks about her new role within the largest single organisation in the world-wide Anglican Church. Angela Dudley lives on a ranch in Virginia, USA, with her husband and 5 children, and definitely does not need another job - but some experiences simply cannot be ignored! Find out how Angela discovered the Isle of Man - and became an author. And acceptance - we all long for it - but do we believe we can really be accepted, just as we are? Dylan's story explores these questions - and there's music, too!

On PRAISE today we're celebrating St David's Day with a great hymn - For All The Saints .... Reverend Nigel Uden is the Moderator of the United Reformed Church General Assembly - we find out why he's on the Island, and why he wants us to think differently about Christmas and Easter. He also chooses a favourite piece of music from JS Bach Paul Moores is our link between The Leprosy Mission Isle of Man, and The Leprosy Mission world-wide - he joins us to talk about this year's big project - a bid to recruit more Hospital Heroes - doctors and nurses willing to work in the hospital in Myanmar (formerly Burma) to bring help, hope and rehabilitation to people affected by leprosy.

Russ Bravo and Patrick Woodward discuss Shrove Tuesday, pancakes, Ash Wednesday and the positive purpose of the church's season of Lent. They mention that Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness. Have you ever felt you're in a 'wilderness' ? There are many reasons we can find ourselves feeling lost and alone - Lynne's story is one of going into - and coming out of - her own 'wilderness'. And PRAISE goes on pilgrimage again - Suzi Rosedale is the guide who led the Manx pilgrims when we were in Israel last November - in a rare quiet moment in our Jerusalem hotel, Suzi shares a little of her fascinating life. Suzi will be the guide on the pilgrimage from the Island which Rev'd Steve Ingrouille, his father Rev'd Rod Ingrouille and Rev'd Dawn Harrison from Lancashire will jointly lead in Spring 2021. If you'd like some information about it, have a word with Rev'd Steve (Minister in Onchan Methodist Church) on 01624 674 464

For the last 20 years, Ramsey based husband and wife Steve and Alison Taylor have been raising funds for projects, and delivering humanitarian aid, to help some of the world's poorest people, through their Drop Inn Ministries charity shops here on the Island. Now their focus has slightly altered and as well as continuing to support global aid projects, they are also developing and supporting an important local outreach for anyone wanting a little gentle help with their mental or emotional wellbeing - Renew Wellbeing Spaces are places where it's OK to be not OK. Alison and Steve provide Renew3 in Ramsey (in Water Street opposite the War Memorial at the end of Parliament Street) and they are involved in the Renew Space open each Monday in the Community Centre in Jurby, too. There's also a Renew Well, next door to Broadway Baptist Church in Douglas. Renew spaces are simple cafe-style places where hobbies, activities and often food is shared, and there's a quiet room or space where the inner practices of wellbeing can be shared. Renew Spaces have support from mental health professionals, to ensure that there is appropriate extra help available for those who need it. Listen as Alison and Steve explain how Renew Spaces work, and who can benefit. Father Dennis Blackledge is a Roman Catholic Jesuit priest who rose to fame around 3 years ago when his church, St Francis Xavier in inner city Liverpool, was the setting for the acclaimed BBC TV drama 'Broken' and Fr Dennis was the religious advisor - helping actor Sean Bean to fully embrace his role as Father Michael Kerrigan. But today Fr Dennis talks about his own real-life priesthood - what it means to be a Jesuit, and, yes, he DOES tell the piranha story! AND there's music too! From the St Michael Singers, and from Libera To find out more about the Renew Spaces project, see their website www.renewwellbeing.org.uk To find out more about local Renew Spaces, search for their Facebook pages For Ramsey - search for Renew3 (meets from noon each Thursday and Friday) For Jurby - search for Drop Inn's Renew Space at Jurby (meets in the Community Centre each Monday afternoon from 2pm - 4.30pm) For Douglas - search for Renew Well (meets next door to Broadway Baptist Church each Wednesday from 11am to 3pm-ish!)

Hugh Stowell Brown was the older brother of our National Poet Thomas Edward (T.E.) Brown. At the age of only 23 he went to Liverpool to preach at Myrtle Street Baptist Church - and stayed there for the next 40 years! What he achieved was astounding, and has so inspired Baptist Minister Wayne Clarke that he has researched and written a biography of Hugh Stowell Brown, and joins me on the programme to tell the story of A READY MAN. A Ready Man is published by Instant Apostle and costs £8.99 - Churches Bookshop in Howard Street in Douglas have copies, some of which may be signed by the author, Wayne Clarke. Valentines Day on Friday the 14th will be popular with florists, the postal service and restaurants, as it's THE day for romantic gestures - and maybe some marriage proposals, as this is a leap year! But who was the REAL St Valentine? We have the story! And finally something from the PRAISE archive. On Sunday 1st August 1999, a very special service was held at Trinity Methodist Church at Rosemount in Douglas. It was led by Revered Kenneth Elworthy, minister of Trinity at the time, and it was to celebrate the 100th birthday of Reverend Leonard Duchars. His daughter-in-law Pam Duchars played the organ and directed the choir, Reverend Leonard's sons and grandchildren gave the readings, and Reverend Leonard himself preached the sermon. We end this week's programme with the hymn which summed up Revered Leonard's long years in ministry - All For Jesus! - mixed with some inspiring words from the sermon - well worth a listen! Music this week is from Marilyn Baker, Margaret Rizza and the Choir of The King's School, Canterbury

Gemma Simmonds is a sister of the Congregation of Jesus - the religious order for women based on the spirituality of St Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuits - but what does that really mean? We find out, in conversation with Sr Gemma, whose own ministry isn't just global - it even includes the world wide web! And PRAISE is on pilgrimage again this week, with interviews with two women, recorded in the Holy Land in late 2019. One is an ordained priest, the other a deacon in the Anglican Church - they share their challenges and their triumphs. And if you'd like to know more about the next pilgrimage to the Holy Land led by Rev'd Dawn Harrison and the Rev'ds Rod and Steve Ingrouille, have a word with Rev'd Steve on 01624 674464 or email steve.ingrouille@methodist,.org.uk

Holocaust Memorial Day invites us to stop and reflect upon the millions of people murdered in the Nazi holocaust, and the genocides in later years in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. On PRAISE this week, through listening to the stories of holocaust survivors, we are made to realise that genocide does not happen suddenly - it grows steadily when regimes deliberately fracture society by marginalising certain groups. But these tactics can be challenged by individuals standing together with their neighbours and speaking out against oppression. There is nothing more compelling that survivors telling their own story. There's also an interesting story from Gemma Simmonds CJ - a nun who recently spent time in Jerusalem, and found a man with an exceptional attitude to peace-making.

This is the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity and the Christian churches in Malta have chosen the theme "Unusual Kindness" - inspired by the shipwreck of St Paul, as recorded in the Bible (Acts of the Apostles Chapter 27 vs 18 to end, and Chapter 28 up to vs 10) When Paul and his companions were washed up onto the shore of Malta, the people of the island immediately helped them - with food, shelter and even fresh supplies when they were able to set sail again - even though they had absolutely no idea who these unfortunate strangers were. The people who showed "unusual kindness" to Paul and the other victims of the shipwreck did not know Jesus Christ, yet, through their "unusual kindness" a divided people were drawn closer together. Will our own Christian unity be discovered through loving encounters with those who do not share our language, culture or faith ? On PRAISE today, I'm joined by Louise Whitelegg and Rev'd Alex Brown who each bring stories of "unusual kindness" and share their thoughts on how this could be a route to global unity - and ultimately - peace. And there are some great 'unity' hymns in there, too!

On PRAISE today we've something old and something new ..... Methodist Minister Andrew Roberts talks about his book HOLY HABITS - a way of life for anyone exploring - or already actively living out - the call of Jesus to 'follow me'. HOLY HABITS is a way of life for anyone of any age or culture - a way of life based on the portrait of the community of followers of Jesus which Luke describes in Chapter 2 of the Acts of the Apostles - a way of life that nurtures whole life discipleship, and encourages others to join the adventure of following Jesus. There are lots of resources to help you to make best use of the book - find out more on line at www.holyhabits.org.uk PLUS we dip into the PRAISE Archive from 16 years ago, to recall when, in 2004, the Isle of Man hosted the Mothers' Union annual General Meeting, with over 1,500 visitors from around Britain and Ireland. Listen again to the sermon preached by Rt Reverend Graeme Knowles (Lord Bishop of Sodor and Man at the time) at the Service of Thanksgiving for the work of the worldwide Mothers' Union - a service held in St George's Church, Douglas and relayed to a big screen in St Mary's RC Church nearby - both churches were packed! Plus we've some great hymns including a Gaelic blessing from Katherine Jenkins

The Coming of the Magi - Epiphany is the Christian festival that draws the Christmas season to a close, and it is celebrated on PRAISE today in Bible readings, poetry and music - Plus there's the first in our new series - PRAISE ON PILGRIMAGE - interviews with those who went on pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Reverend Steve Ingrouille in November 2019, as they share their thoughts on the places they visited, and the memories they will treasure - plus interviews with people they met on the journey. Today's interview is with Very Reverend Richard Sewell, who is a Canon of St George's Anglican Cathedral in Jerusalem and also Dean of St George's College which is located close to the Cathedral and is a centre for pilgrimage, education, hospitality and reconciliation.

On PRAISE today we start with a challenging little reflection on the TRUE meaning of Christmas (and a beautiful piece of music) then we find out why John Anderson's 1,000-mile journey from Land's End to John O' Groats became his "Walk For Freedom" So far, he's raised a staggering £37,500! This is truly life-changing - for the people who will receive that money - but maybe for John and his wife Fiona, too. Listen - and decide for yourself! This is the last PRAISE programme for 2019 so it's a good opportunity to thank you for downloading and listening - and to wish you a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year! May God richly bless you, and those you love. And if you'd like to know more about the charity who will receive the money John has raised, search on line for International Justice Mission

A traditional celebration of the Birth of Jesus in Bible verses, poetry and some of the most beautiful carols and seasonal music. In the space of one hour you will hear : Once in Royal David's City (The Choirboys) Bible Reading - Isaiah Ch9 Vs 1-7 read by David Suchet For Unto Us Child Is Born (from Handel's Messiah, performed by the Glasgow Festival Chorus and Orchestra Bible Reading - Isaiah Ch9 11 Vs 1-9 read by David Suchet Unto Us Is Born A Son (Huddersfield Choral Society) Bible Reading - Luke Chapter 1 - The Annunciation - read by David Suchet The Angel Gabriel From Heaven Came (Celtic Christmas Collection) Bible Reading - Luke tells of the Birth of Jesus - read by David Suchet The Nativity Carol (John Rutter - performed by the Clare College Singers and Orchestra) Poem - Mary's Burden by Eleanor Farjeon - read by Anne Clarke Coventry Carol (Celtic Christmas Collection) Poem - BC - AD by U.A. Fanthorpe - read by Anne Clarke O Little Town of Bethlehem (The Coventry Singers and The St Michael Singers) Bible Reading - Luke Chapter 1 - The angels appear to the shepherds - read by David Suchet The First Nowell (Choir of Royal Holloway - arrangement from Winter Songs by Ola Gjeilo) Bible Reading - Luke Chapter 1 - The shepherds go to the manger - read by David Suchet While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night (The Coventry Singers and The St Michael Singers) Bible Reading - Gospel of Matthew - The coming of the Kings - read by David Suchet Poem - Kings Came Riding by Charles William - read by Anne Clarke We Three Kings of Orient Are (The Coventry Singers and The St Michael Singers) Bible Reading - The Gospel of Matthew - The Kings are warned about Herod - read by David Suchet Poem - Innocent's Song by Charles Causley - read by Anne Clarke In The Bleak Midwinter - Instrumental by Peddyr Cubberley (whistles) and Mera Royle (Harp) with poem - A Christmas Carol - by Christina Rossetti read by Anne Clarke Poem - Oxen by Thomas Hardy - read by Anne Clarke Tra Va Ruggit Creest - Manx Carol by Curjin Cooidjak Poem - What The Donkey Saw by U.A. Fanthorpe - read by Anne Clarke Silent Night (The Coventry Singers and The St Michael Singers Poem - Cathedral Carol Service by Wendy Cope read by Anne Clarke O Come All Ye Faithful - sung by Susan Boyle

Rev Alex Brown, pioneer minister in Douglas, reflects on some good, positive things which can come from changed plans, and explains why he loves being Chaplain to the Island's Scouts- and 9-year-old Jorja Bradshaw shares some thoughts on a memorable trip to Zimbabwe - plus we have some great Advent music, and a couple of really thought-provoking pre-Christmas reflection. Enjoy!

On PRAISE this week - Lt Dylan Nieuwoudt talks about taking part in CHRISTMAS LIVE on December 19th, and taking the Salvation Army on the Island 'out of its comfort zone' as it looks at new ways to be a church serving the community. There are extracts from the recent Tynwald Carol Service in St Mary's Roman Catholic Church - including music from the Tynwald Choir, the Government Staff Choir and a brass ensemble, directed by Jonathan King, Deputy clerk to Tynwald. Listen out for some fine choir pieces - 'Gaudete' and the sweet and melodic 'Shine, Star, Shine' with music by Frank Woolley and words by Breesha Maddrell. And we finish with a few thoughts on .... parties!!

Cafe Lingo was established at the Promenade Methodist Church to offer English language teaching and general support to people moving to live on the Island. Founder Karen Norton joins us today, to explain how Cafe Lingo is now so much more than just language learning - and if, after listening to Karen, you want to contact her, the number is 07624 458340. Reverend Alex Brown is Pioneer Minister in Douglas, and is always looking for ways to take the Gospel message to where people are - so he jumped at an invitation - from Douglas Town Centre Manager Oliver Cheshire - to create CHRISTMAS 'LIVE' into the centre of Douglas - the whole story is on PRAISE today - and the ticket website is www.pioneerminister.im Tickets are FREE and there's a choice of 2 performances on Thursday 19 December - 6pm and 7.30pm - both in Villiers Square, Regent Strteet, Douglas.

Today is the start of the four weeks of December which the church calls Advent - a time of preparation for the great feast of Christmas - preparation that has nothing to do with money, shopping or stress! We've got some great music, and an exchange of very different views on Christmas cards - are you in favour of them? Or not? And special guest Reverend Chris Foxon - a semi-retired Methodist minister from Scotland - shares his experience as a teacher of religious education, to talk about the questions young people ask.

Reverend Ken Benjamin, a visitor to the Island, talks about his 23 years as senior pastor in Chichester Baptist Church, his present additional role as President of Baptists Together, and the new position he'll take. up next year when he joins the London School for Contemporary Christianity .... and Louise Whitelegg explains why she's a member of Methodist Women in Britain, and how everyone can get involved in creating a unique piece of art. And there's music too - great hymns for the Feast of Christ the King

Recent visitor to the Island - Reverend Helen Bent - is Head of Ministerial Development at the Royal School of Church Music. Her greatest wish is for people to discover that the RSCM isn't a stuffy old-fashioned organisation, but instead is a place where all types and genres of church music are drawn together and celebrated with equal value. Find out more about their work by copying and pasting this link into your browser : https://www.rscm.org.uk Helen - who is a music teacher, a singer, an instrumentalist and an author, as well as being an Anglican priest - is passionate about empowering churches to make the most of whatever resources they have, and to enjoy enriching their liturgy with music. Her book INSPIRING MUSIC IN WORSHIP - is a short course of 5 guided conversations to help churches do this - look at sample pages and content by copying and pasting this link into your browser: https://www.rscmshop.com/features/inspiring-music-in-worship Lindsey Corkill is Charities Manager at Ramsey-based AFD Software, a company famed for its generous support for local, national and global. charities. Discover more about the group : https://www.mvic.im The music featured on PRAISE today is ; He Who Would Valiant Be by Wallingford Parish Church Choir: Teaching The Truth In Love by Accapella: Gloria and Sanctus from Communion Service in F by Harold Darke, sung by Wakefield Cathedral Choir: Psalm 25 from The Psalm Project

A special programme of thoughts, music, readings and prayers for this Remembrance Sunday, including the story of the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres, Belgium; the Women in Song choir directed by Karen Elliott, singing 'Flanders Field'; Rev'd Alec Smith with the story of 'Woodbine Willie'; Folk group Show Of Hands with The Padre, and Rev'd Steve Ingrouille reads a poignant extract from a family diary.

A Jesuit priest who describes himself as a 'jovial Lancastrian' and loves every moment of being a priest, talks with searing honesty and understanding about brokenness - he's Father Denis Blackledge, Parish Priest of a busy inner-city church in Liverpool - and a conversation recorded with Terry Waite some 20 years ago, still has a powerful message for us today. And do please look at the PRAISE ON PILGRIMAGE blog - we'd love you to join us as an armchair pilgrim in the Holy Land.

God and The Big Bang - how does scientific fact fit with belief in God? That's the question we're asking on PRAISE today- in conversation with three scientists who work for 'God and the Big Bang' - a project developed for young people aged 10 and 18, to support the teaching of Evolution, and to give them the opportunity to discover, discuss and debate the compatibility of science and faith. 'God and the Big Bang' gives them the tools they need to form their own opinions, and engage in well-reasoned, thought-provoking discussions about the place of science in God's world. Three key members of the 'God and the Big Bang' project - Dr Matt Pritchard, Sarah Moring and Suzanne Kalka (Project Co ordinator) discuss their schools' work, their own faith - and so much more - PLUS from the PRAISE archive, there's an interview recorded over 20 years ago with Rev'd Dr John Polkinghorne - considered to be one of the finest theologian/scientists of our time, and the recipient of the £1million Templeton Prize for 'an exceptional contribution to affirming life's spiritual dimension' And his subject ? The compatibility of science and faith!

This week's PRAISE podcast has extra value - it includes a much longer version of a fascinating conversation I had with two members of Mission Aviation Fellowship - the charity that quite literally is 'flying for life' A team from MAF visited the Island this weekend - they came to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the donation of a Kodiak plane by Ramsey-based AFD Software, to the charity - I talk with the Chief Executive Officer Ruth Whitaker, and one of the pilots, Steve Machell, to find out what the plane has been doing during the first ten years of its life (spent in Kalimantan, Borneo) and on the way, learn a lot more about this Christian charity that uses a fleet of light aircraft to reach isolated and vulnerable communities - bringing essential supplies, healthcare and so so much more. And we meet 16-year-old local teenager Grace Harrison, who is about to be assessed for her suitability to be trained to be a MAF pilot! Definitely a story we'll be coming back to, in the future! I go to the Villa Marina to meet a visiting choir - the EAGA Gospel Choir from Leicester - who are competing in this year's Festival of Choirs. Their Bishop and their Pastor and members of the choir, which is a true community choir, with a place for everyone - and they have seen - in their own church - the power of music to turn lives around. Their fine singing won them a place in the final - could they go back to Leicester with the Choir of the Festival top award ? And there's other music on Praise too - three songs from the pen of Stuart Townend, performed by Keith and Kristyn Getty

The making of a Saint - and a popular BBC presenter, author and tireless charity worker returns! In this edition of PRAISE we reflect on the road to Sainthood for an exceptional English priest - John Henry Newman - and we feature two of his best-loved hymns, too. And we welcome back Pam Rhodes, who explains exactly why she's so passionate about the work of the Leprosy Mission (of which she is Vice President) She also talks about her work as a TV presenter, and why she welcomes change on BBC TV's Songs of Praise

On PRAISE today - we hear from Rev'd Susan McIvor, District Safeguarding Officer for the Methodist Church in Nottingham and Derby, who was the guest speaker at an Ecumenical Safeguarding Seminar organised by our Safeguarding Officer, Tony Connell, and attended by members of local churches of all denominations, working together to achieve best safeguarding standards. Bishop Tom Williams, from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Liverpool, is on Visitation on the Island - we find out what that means, and also get an update on Synod 2020. And we find out how the hard work of two regular guests on PRAISE has been recognised - with a national award.

On the programme this week, we explore the hidden powers of storytelling - finding out more about Godly Play in conversation with trainers Rachel Bainton and Susie Steel (the national website is www.godlyplay.uk) Then we take a first look at local farmer John Anderson's Walk For Freedom - he's covering 1,000 miles from Lands End to John O'Groats, to celebrate his 60th birthday, and to raise funds (and awareness) for International Justice Mission UK - the international charity which works to rescue the millions trapped in slavery and people trafficking - many of whom are children. Follow his progress and read his daily news bulletins at www.johnswalkforfreedom.co.uk And we hear how a story told by TV and radio broadcaster and charity worker Pam Rhodes, during her recent visit to the Island, inspired John 'Dog' Callister to write a prize-winning poem - AND there's music too - two of the most popular hymns for Harvest Thanksgiving.

Looking back on Spring Harvest Local, as some of the hundreds of people who gathered at Mountain View Innovation Centre share their thoughts on an evening of music, worship, prayer and teaching. Alongside comments from Onnee Ayres, Ruth Walker of Scripture Union Ministries Trust, Rev Alex Brown and Bob Jeavons, we hear from event leaders Gavin Calver, Lisa Holmes and singer/songwriter Lou Fellingham, who, along with her worship band, provided the music (which is featured on the podcast too!) Lea Milligan was there too, talking about the amazing work done by Mercy Ships - which operates the largest charity-run hospital ship in the world. And the man who made the whole thing possible - David Dorricott - has the last word! PLUS EXTRA PODCAST CONTENT THIS WEEK! The whole of The Buchan School sing for peace! Hear them sing 'One Wish' as part of the 'ONE DAY ONE CHOIR' global peace initiative that uses the power of singing together to unite people around the World on Peace Day. Thank you to Mrs Sue Mills for sending us this recording - and well done to everyone involved!

A week of local campaigning for climate change starts on Friday 20th September - Christian Aid rep Louise Whitelegg is one of the organisers, and has all the details - the Right Reverend Frank White is on a flying visit to the Island and calls into the studio to talk about his concern for those in the margins of society, a new way of thinking about vocations, and how it feels to be the only Bishop in the UK to be married .... to a Bishop! And another visitor to the Island - BBC TV's Songs of Praise presenter Pam Rhodes - talks about her love of hymns and all types of music for worship. It's a small part of a much longer conversation which will feature in a future edition of PRAISE And did you know that our daily Thought for the Day is now available as a podcast? At the end of each week, the 5 individual 'Thoughts' are put together in one podcast, and it's called 'Thought for the Week' - well worth a listen!

A new Isle of Man registered charity has its official launch next Saturday - Elly Duchars and Paul Halliday explain what The Leprosy Mission IOM will achieve and why its needed - and everyone is welcome to the official launch on Saturday 14 September at 6.30pm in the Cathedral in Peel. And we go behind the scenes to check on the progress of Spring Harvest Local, which is on 17 September. David Dorricott - a long time supporter of Spring Harvest - explains why it's important for him to have this event on his premises at Mountain View Innovation Centre in Ramsey and Abby Guiness - who organises all the Spring Harvest events - explains why she believes gathering in groups is the best way to open ourselves to God's transforming power - and there's music too! To book for Spring Harvest in Ramsey, go to www.springharvest.org/local and the Isle of Man event is the first one on the list To find out more about The Leprosy Mission go to www.leprosymission.org.uk

Gavin Calver wants everyone to come and meet him when he's in Ramsey later this month - on PRAISE today we find out why; Georgia from Churches Bookshop in Douglas is organising another free admission 'Meet The Author' event, and joins us with all the details, and my special guest is Rosie Shirtliff, with the story of her life-changing trip to Uganda. And of course there's music too!

Nowadays, it takes a brave person to go into a church building alone, or to start a conversation about God. Michael Harvey believes that we have to overcome this by developing a culture of invitation, which will lead to transformation. On PRAISE today he explains why he thinks it's so important to do this - and much more! And Judith's been in the PRAISE archives - and found a special service to celebrate the work of St John Ambulance on the Island - it was held in St George's Church, Douglas, 21 years ago - and the guest speaker was Rabbi Lionel Blue! There wasn't sufficient time to include Rabbi Blue's complete talk in the programme, but you'll find it ALL HERE in this week's ADDED VALUE PRAISE podcast - ENJOY!

It's a tale of two books in this edition of PRAISE - Methodist Minister Steve Ingrouille explains how he came to write a book by accident, and Father Nicolas Stebbing, of the Community of the Resurrection in Mirfield, believes that a book written over 1,500 years ago could offer solutions for many problems of present-day living. There's music, too - and we end with a challenge!

On PRAISE today - being a Mother and a Minister; bravery at the Beach Mission - and music from featured artist Katherine Jenkins. Vicar's wife and grandmother Mary Sumner founded the Mothers' Union over 140 years ago. Today it's the largest Anglican movement in the world, operating in 84 countries with over 4 million members, and on August 9th each year members meet to celebrate the life and achievements of their Founder. Local Mothers Union members were at Kirk Andreas on Friday night for a service at which the guest preacher was Rev'd Canon Janice Ward, vicar of Marown and Baldwin. Hear her thoughts on being a Mother - and being an ordained minister! The Port St Mary Beach Mission is over for another year, but two members of the Scripture Union team won't be returning to their usual roles - Schools Worker Jon Taylor and his wife Ali - who coordinates the programmes offered to Primary Schools - are taking a leap of faith! They're leaving SU - and the Island - with no jobs and no plans - just a desire to serve God and His people wherever they feel called. Plus two pieces of music from Katherine Jenkins

If you're currently finding life a bit of a challenge, then I hope my special guest on PRAISE today might give you a little bit of inspiration and encouragement to face whatever lies ahead. EMILY OWEN is an author and speaker - with a remarkable story to tell. And we'll hear from a priest in the Anglican Diocese of Liverpool who has a growing number of friends here on the Island - she's Reverend Dawn Harrison and she'll be talking about her ministry on Merseyside, and her great affection for the Holy Land - plus we've music from Handel - and Graham Kendrick!

The true story of a travelling Bible which came home to Kirk Braddan this week - 185 years since it left the Island! We meet Margaret Fourie - loving her life as a (retired) Anglican priest, and there's an update on Spring Harvest Local that's coming to the Island on 17 September. It's just been announced that the new CEO of the Evangelical Alliance - Gavin Calver - will be the speaker - we listen to part of a talk he gave when last he was on the Island - just to remind ourselves what a powerful and challenging leader he is! And there's music too!!

On PRAISE today we reflect on some of the lesser-known aspects of that historic moon landing, 50 years ago; Pioneer Minister Reverend Alex Brown shares some more of his vision for churches that aren't churches; we have a first mention for SPRING HARVEST LOCAL that's coming to the Island on 17th September, and the Manager of Churches Bookshop has a plan to take care of his customers Island-wide, whilst access to the shop is affected by the major works on Douglas Promenade - plus music from Maddy Prior and Lou Fellingham!

On PRAISE today, I'm talking with Zoe Anderson, who's left the family farm in Patrick to work with the world's largest anti-slavery charity in the world. But surely slavery belongs to a bygone age? Sadly, it doesn't - it's modern, it's massive - and most worryingly, there's a good chance that - without realising - we're all involved. But it can be changed - and Zoe has some success stories to share, as well as challenges to suggest. There's music from The Kingdom Choir (of Royal Wedding fame!) plus we look ahead to next week .... when Rev Alex Brown will be talking about churches that aren't necessarily churches ......

This week's programme is all about music - it's also about teenage rebellion, maternal love - and lots of FAITH! On PRAISE today, we discover a new CD of beautiful harp music that's been recorded with a unique purpose - and take a first look at the Miss M.L. Wood Song School at the Cathedral in Peel.

Reverend Andy Fishburne talks about his road to ordination in the Methodist Church. Rosemary Clarke previews the new exhibition about the origins of the Bible in Manx which forms part of the Cathedral's involvement in the IOM Flower Festival. This year's festival involves 18 venues all around the Island and runs from 30 June - 6 July with venues open daily between 11am and 5pm

On this week's programme - Dr Richard Hubbard, Valerie Kinrade and Reverend Jo Dudley, tell the story of the background to the new Visit Laxey Valley Heritage Trail which opens next Saturday, 29 June, at 12 noon. Christ Church in Laxey will be the Welcome Centre for visitors to the trail, in addition to retaining its purpose as a place of worship. Music today is from the Celtic-influenced duo CAIM, and Louise Whitelegg pops in to explain The Time Is Now - it's a rallying call for everyone to march to Tynwald on 26 June at 1pm, to press the Government into action on climate change and related concerns.

We celebrate Father's Day with a selection of stories, as three people each remember their Dad - and we travel to Ramsey for a Service of Celebration in which a Declaration of Commitment was signed between the Ramsey Methodist Church and Trinity United Reformed Church in Ramsey. After 4 years of preparation and discussion, each have left their own buildings and will now work and worship together, in St Pauls' Church Hall in Ramsey - this is the first such partnership on the Island - might others now follow? And there's music too!

On PRAISE today, we reflect on the 75th Anniversary of D-Day with thoughts from some of the Veterans as they returned to the Normandy beaches. If you're looking for a summer holiday suggestion, there's something for everyone at a quality Christian camp site in the Vendee region of France, and Charles Guard talks about his composition 'The Legend of St Maughold' which he will perform in St Paul's Church in Ramsey next Saturday - 15 June

Meet The Racing Preacher! In a special PRAISE programme for TT, Methodist local preacher and sidecar passenger Andy Haynes shares his life story. With wisdom and gentle humour, he talks about faith, family, choices and challenges (and much more!) and there's music too!

The Firestarter Youth Camp is 22 years old but it's fresher and brighter than ever - team leader Tommy Harrison and Natalie Brennan update us on this year's event - but be prepared for a VERY unexpected side to the story! Check out the festival, and book, via www.firestarter.im Simon Brown is a volunteer with London Zoo - and with the charity A Rocha. He's passionate about cherishing our world, and the people who live in it. He wants our places of worship to become Eco Churches - leading the way in caring with and for the community. Do the survey, and find out more at www.ecochurch.arocha.org.uk And we're keeping it topical with a biking story - but this one is from a MOST unusual source!

On PRAISE today, members of two Ramsey churches - Trinity United Reformed Church and Waterloo Road Methodist Church - describe the process that's led them to sell their existing church buildings, and plan a future sharing their weekly services together, and working together to serve the local community and the wider world. From 9 June their weekly shared service will be at 10.30am in St Pauls Church Hall in Ramsey. The Local Ecumenical Partnership -the legal agreement which is what the two denominations are working towards - will be the first of its kind on the Isle of Man.

Looking ahead to Praying the Keeills Week, discovering the power of sunflowers, and a first meeting with the inspirational Emily Owen - it's all on PRAISE today - plus The Deer's Cry - ancient words set to beautiful music

On PRAISE today we catch up with Bishop Michael Burrows, from our 'twinned' diocese in Ireland, and discover the link between Our Lady of Walsingham and the Isle of Man - plus brass band hymn tunes from this years Guild

A much-loved Manxman is remembered, and we discover some fascinating insights into the real life of Vincent Van Gogh Reverend David Gordon was pastor at Broadway Baptist Church in Douglas, and left some 18 years ago to become National Mission Advisor for the Baptist Church in Scotland. He's now Pastor and Team Leader at Kirkintilloch Baptist Church in the north of Glasgow. For many years David has been interested in the life and work of the painter Vincent Van Gogh but it was only whilst on sabbatical last year that he got the chance to turn his interest into a real study of the man - with fascinating results! Listen to David tell his story .... The late John Kennaugh was a popular contributor to Manx Radio's Thought for the Day - we share some of John's thoughts from his Easter broadcasts MUSIC ON PRAISE TODAY : Christ, whose glory fills the sky (St Michael Singers) Tell me the old, old story (London Fox Singers) My song is love unknown (last verse only) Incidental piano music is by Rick Wakeman

The message of Easter is at the very heart of the Christian faith - but what does a gift of new life mean to ordinary people like us? Georgie and Nigel Dempsey-Moore know exactly what it means to them, and they share their searingly honest story on today's programme. Bishop Gavin Ashenden explains what Easter means to him - and there's lovely music and lighthearted moments as the Broughton Boys Choir share highlights from their recent Training Course on the Island