Newsletter 24th March 2023
Dear all
People used to say that I was good with names. However, my superpower appears to have transmuted somewhat. Earlier today, it occurred to me that it would be a good idea to confirm arrangements for the appearance of the donkey on Palm Sunday for our passion play. Unfortunately, I had no recollection of the name of the kind lady who had agreed to supply the aforementioned beast of burden. I searched my contacts list in case I had entered her into my phone as “donkey lady” but to no avail. Eventually, after considerable searching I found the original text detailing her name (Tracey) and number. The name meant nothing to me, but thankfully she was the right person. In spite of all this, I had no trouble at all in remembering that the donkey was called Dennis!
I am reminded that the Bible says God gave Adam the task of naming the animals, while our names are engraved on the palms of his hands.
Lent Lunches
Lent Lunches continue every Wednesday at St George’s from 12-1 p.m., with two more to go.
In the Stiperstones benefice, the final gathering is today at Hope & Shelve Village Hall.
Here are a couple of photographs from the Lent Lunch at Stiperstones Inn last week. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped raise £166 towards epilepsy research.
Brian Venables
Sadly, Brian Venables of Bentlawnt, aged 56 died last Sunday. Brian, in his short time as Treasurer of the new parish of Hope & Shelve, endeared himself to many by his kindness and professionalism. His funeral will take place at Church Preen. Please pray for Barbara and the rest of the family.
Palm Sunday
The Palm Sunday passion play at St George’s will commence at 10.30 with able bodied members of the congregation meeting in the bay outside the Deanery. Please do not park outside Hignett’s as this will be reserved for the Donkey. We would like someone to take a few photos of the occasion. If you would be willing and able to do this, please contact Greg.
Worship Survey
Many thanks to all those who responded to the worship survey over the last 3 weeks. Over 40 responses were received at St George’s and 20 at Holy Trinity. We will report in more detail in due course on the results. However, as previously stated, the broad message is a very positive one, and therefore it is unlikely any major changes will ensue. You may still return a questionnaire either to Sarah Edwards or Allen Marsden, although we can no longer guarantee anonymity!
Sunday’s sermon at St George’s will focus on the raising of Lazarus and will consider the puzzles John’s account provides us.
Snailbeach Coffee Morning
There will be a coffee morning in aid of St Luke’s Church on Saturday 1st April from 10-12 at Snailbeach Village Hall. All welcome.
The Gathering
The monthly service of praise and worship at Marton Village Hall for Pontesbury Deanery takes place this Tuesday March 28th from 7 p.m. with the Bishop of Hereford speaking.
Electoral Roll
The electoral roll is the church’s official record of membership and is open to anyone who attends any of our churches on a regular basis. The roll is updated annually at this time of year. If you regularly worship with us, we encourage you to join. At Pontesbury, please see Val Butterworth and at Minsterley Colin Edwards.
Prayer Seminar
Pete Greig, who has a nationally recognised prayer ministry as the founder of the 24-7 prayer movement will be leading a day in Ludlow on Wednesday March 29th 9.30-3 p.m. This is a ticketed event, although there is no charge. Tickets are available at:-
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bishops-study-day-how-to-pray-led-by-pete-grieg-tickets-477271530997
Passover
There will be a supper in remembrance of the Passover at St George’s on Tuesday April 4th at 6.30 p.m. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Places can be reserved by emailing Greg at rectorpontstip@gmail.com or writing your name on a list at the back of either St George’s or HTM. There will also be a compline service at Snailbeach that evening.
Calendar for the Week
Fri 24th
Coffee at St George’s 10-12
Lent Lunch at Hope Village Hall at 12 noon
Sat 25th
Alpha Away Day at Yockleton Church from 10.30 a.m.
Sun 26th
Morning Prayer at Hope at 9 a.m.
Holy Communion at Pontesbury, Minsterley & Habberley at 10.30 a.m.
Palm Sunday rehearsal at 12 noon
Mon 27th
Training for foodbank volunteers at Barnabas at 2 pm.
Youth Café at HTM at 3.30 p.m.
Tues 28th
Foodbank at HTM 10-12
Little Dragons at St George’s 10-11.30 a.m.
Church Council at 2 p.m. in the WER
The Gathering at Marton Village Hall from 7 p.m.
Weds 29th
Lent Lunch at St George’s 12-1 p.m.
Alpha Week 9 at The Deanery at 7 p.m.
Thurs 30th
Foodbank at St George’s 10-12
Fri 31st
Palm Sunday rehearsal at 4 p.m.
Sat 1st
April Snailbeach Coffee Morning at Snailbeach Village Hall 10-12
