Newsletter 28th July 2023
Dear Friends
It was only some days after youth camp, in which I had spent the weekend kayaking, gorge walking, orienteering and archering, arching, firing a bow and arrow, that it suddenly occurred to me that my lower back which I had injured several months before when running, had not given me the slightest twinge. After months of trying to be careful and being very conscious of the delicacy of those lower back muscles, I was at last free of pain and discomfort (I will still try and be sensible). I record this in part to say thank you to all those who prayed, offered advice and practical help, or simply expressed concern. But also, to remind you (and me) how easy it is to pray and pray and pray for something and when God answers to be so caught up in other things that we forget to acknowledge His wonderful help.
I don’t suppose the ten lepers who were healed by Jesus were busy kayaking or trying to run a church. They most likely went off in search of the friends and families, in doing so failing to thank the one who had healed them. I commend to you the kind of prayer that includes a careful review of the day/week, noting all the good things that God has done. And remembering to say, “thank you”!
Administrator
Krys Rodgers has now begun work as Parish Administrator for Pontesbury & Minsterley. Her email address is officepontstip@gmail.com
Youth Camp
Prayers were answered. A good time was had by all.
Youth Worker Interviews
The photos above are a reminder why we have worked so hard to recruit a youth worker. Disappointingly, despite having secured more than two years funding, and having interviewed an outstanding candidate, we have yet to succeed in recruiting one. Although very positive on the day, the candidate ultimately turned us down. Please do pray that we will be able to find the right person soon.
Ecumenical Service
Please make a note in your diaries that there will be a joint service with the Congregationalists and Methodists on Sunday September 10th at 3 p.m. at Pontesbury Congregational Church. If you would like to join the planning team for the service, please let Greg know.
Foodbank
For understandable reasons, foodbank donations are down across the nation, as people tighten their belts. Nevertheless, the need is only growing. Even one tin makes a difference.
Barbecue at the Bowens
Many thanks to all those (50 or so) who supported the BBQ at Caro & Mike’s last weekend. Over £500 was raised towards Minsterley church funds. Special thanks to the Bowens for their kind hospitality.
Group Services
This Sunday is a Group Service at St George’s at 10.30 a.m. and there will be another on Sunday Aug 27th at Holy Trinity, Minsterley. As a family of churches, we are starting to wonder whether people would appreciate the opportunity to meet together more regularly, say once a month. If you have strong feelings about this either way, do speak to a churchwarden or one of the clergy about it.
Holidays
Please note that Greg & Fran are on holiday from 31st July to 13th August; and Richard, Claire, and family 15th to 28th August. Revd Fran Brealey is around throughout the summer.
Messy Church
The Messy Church that meets once a month at Minsterley Parish Hall continues to attract good numbers of families, those who otherwise are not connected with the church. The future of the service is in jeopardy however because of the shortage of volunteers. Members of any church would be welcome to come and help out. For further information, please contact Richard at richardlonsdale1@gmail.com
Calendar for the Week
Fri 28th
Coffee at St George’s 10-12
Sun 30th
Group Service at St George’s at 10.30 a.m.
Tues 1st
Aug Foodbank at HTM 10-12
Weds 2nd
Café at HTM 10-12
Cliffdale at 11 a.m.
Thurs 3rd
Foodbank at St George’s 10-12.00
Sun 6th
Holy Communion at Shelve at 9 a.m.
Morning Praise at St George’s at 10.30 a.m.
Holy Communion at Minsterley at 10.30 a.m.
Evensong at Habberley at 5 p.m.
