CROSLAND MOOR
Members of the Crosland Moor Mothers’ Union celebrated Holy Communion in the Lady Chapel of St. Barnabas’ Church. The celebrant was the Rev Martin Parrott assisted by server Andrea Rattigan. Bible readings were given by Margaret Sigsworth and during the service Sandra Russell was admitted as a new member of the Mothers’ Union. Afterwards in the Parish Hall the members held their monthly meeting, chaired by the Branch Leader Joyce Holdsworth, who after a short business update introduced the speaker David Rothwell. He showed old films of St Barnabas’ Church both inside during the many events over the years and also outside the church including the area before the Church or David Brown’s factory and offices were built; when there were just fields, some with cows in. Joyce Holdsworth thanked David for a very interesting film session. The hostesses for the morning were Nancy Jones and Margaret Morelli. After the meeting the members along with husbands and friends went to Crosland Heath Golf Club for a Christmas lunch. They were joined there by 16 members of the Linthwaite Mothers’ Union from Christ Church, the other Church in the United Benefice of Crosland Moor and Linthwaite.
GOLCAR
A carol and food fest was held in the church and community room at St John’s Church on Saturday, November 26. Arien Sound and children from the local schools sang, played drums and instruments and recited poetry, making it a very festive occasion. Refreshments and a varied lunch menu were served in the community room. Proceeds were for church funds.
The Rev Martyn Crompton welcomed the congregation to the family communion and baptism service at St John’s Church on the first day of advent and led the service. Jini Crompton gave the Gospel reading from Mark 13, 24-27 and the talk was given by Helen Bentley. During the service Martyn baptised James Stewart Bray and his god-parent Dean Paul Hemmingway and welcomed them into the church family. Betty Taylor led the prayers and Ann Norton was the organist. Sunday Club and Sunday Youth had been following the theme of Advent.
In the afternoon a Come and Sing or Come and Hear Messiah was performed by an augmented choir. The soloists were Emma Walton, soprano; Emily Reeve, contralto; Richard Buxton, tenor; Glen Cannon, baritone; Denise Dransfield, trumpet; and George Marsden was the organist. Margaret Laycock was the conductor. Afterwards refreshments were served in the community room. The collection was for the Churches Help in supporting ongoing work in Mara, Issenye.
The Rev Canon Martyn Crompton welcomed the congregation to the parish communion at St John’s Church and led the service. The Old Testament reading from Isaiah 40, verses 1-11 was read by Sue Starr. Richard Lodge gave the Epistle reading from 2 Peter chapter 3, verse 8-15. Martin followed the gospel reading from Mark 1 verses 1-8 by talking about the need for honesty in repentance and in recognising our own shortcomings. Sylvia Hanson led the prayers and Margaret Laycock was the pianist. Sunday Club had been listening to the Christmas story and had each made a model of the manger. Sunday Youth had embroidered an Advent picture.
The Rev Pam Ward led the gift day service at Providence Methodist Church. The theme was getting ready. Lessons were read by Yvette and Bev Fox and Daniel Field was the organist.
A weekend away was held by members of Providence Friendship Group. They visited Chester and Chatsworth House which was decorated on the theme A Christmas Carol. The weekend away had been arranged by Mrs G Beevers.
LINTHWAITE
The second Advent candle was lit by the Baxter family at Linthwaite Methodist Church, when Hilary Baxter, her daughter Diane Loftus and her grandchildren Sam and Amy Loftus talked about Love. Mr John Mason was the appointed preacher and prior to their leaving for Junior Church spoke to the young people about the meaning of Advent and that they should Stop, Look and Listen for the true Christmas message. Sue Haigh read from Isaiah 40 verses 1-11: ‘Comfort my people.’ Mr Mason's text was Preparation for Christmas / Jesus, when he spoke about the commercialisation taking over from the true meaning of the celebration. Linda Nuttall was the organist and William Morrison operated the AV. The Junior Church leaders were Diane Loftus and Andrea Morley.
Linthwaite Methodist Church will hold their Service of Carols and readings at 6pm on Sunday December 18, when the guests will be Linthwaite Brass Band.
Suzanna Pearson, also known as Susan Starr, was the speaker at the Linthwaite Methodist Thursday Fellowship. She brought along two other members of the Schools Team from Colne Valley Museum and explained how visiting school children learn about life in the valley 150 years ago - when life was much harder than it is now ! She was surprised to learn that several members of her audience had not visited the museum. Margaret Moriarty (also a member of the Schools Team) was the chairlady and Jenny Sutherland the pianist. Refreshments were served by Beryl Woodward and Pauline Ellis. In two weeks’ time at the Christmas meeting members will be entertained by the magic of Philip Horn.
An all age Eucharist service was led by the Rev Martin Parrott who celebrated Holy Communion and gave a blessing. Jason Stevens was baptised and given a blessing and along with Jenson Heeley was given a baptismal candle. The pianist was Kathryn Longbottom. The evening service was led by the Rev Martin who preached and prayed and gave a blessing. Lessons were read by Margaret McQuillan and Derek Horn. The organist was Rhona Jepson. On December 10 coffee and mince pies will be served at 20, Heights Drive, from 10am until 12noon.
LONGWOOD
On the second Sunday of Advent, the Eucharistic service at St Mark’s Church, pictured, was led by guest celebrant, the Rev Janet Sargent. Church organist Philip Turner was the accompanist, supported by a small choir. Opening with a proclamation of marriage banns for the third time for Martin Louis Ballard and Victoria Anne Brook, Janet said a prayer on their behalf. She then gave a welcome and asked Sunday schoolchildren Rosie, Grace, Isaac and Sydney to light the first two Advent candles. In the absence of the words Phil led the children in singing the Advent song. Bible readings, from Isaiah and Peter were read by Judith Pearson and Olive Houghton. The gradual Hymn Come Thou Long Expected Jesus was sung and followed with the Gospel reading by Janet, who continued with her sermon from the pulpit. The subject was about Advent and how it led up to Christmas and looking forward to the birth of Jesus. Following the Creed, intercession prayers were presented by Liz Malafronte followed with the sharing of The Peace, everyone having been invited with a loud invitation from the children. After consecrating the bread and wine everyone was invited to take part in the Eucharist, with Janet and Chris Jones as server. Following the prayer after Communion the final hymn Oh For A Thousand Tongues was sung. Janet announced that in the leaflet from churches together was a misprint and there is not going to be a coffee morning in St Mark’s Church as advertised next Saturday. She went on to invite the children to join the liturgy procession following her blessing to bring the service to an end. Following the service next Sunday in the Parish and Community Centre there will be a Christmas get together with suitable refreshments such as hot soup and mince pies.
MARSDEN
On Saturday the United Church Marsden was open in the afternoon for viewing of the Christmas trees on display provided by organisations associated with the church and local businesses. Refreshments were served and the church remained open until after the switching on of the Christmas lights in the centre of the village.
The Rev Sue Macbeth of Moldgreen United Reformed Church led morning worship which included Holy Communion at the United Church, Marsden on Sunday. The two Advent candles were lit by Hannah Boswell and Naomi Hemingway. Bible readings were given by Margaret Casson and Brian Boothroyd. The Rev Sue illustrated her talk by playing music to highlight points. The organist was Marjorie Boothroyd. Coffee and tea were served afterwards by members of the scout group. On Sunday December 18 10.45am there will be the annual nativity service at the United Church, Marsden. There will be a nativity play in costume performed by children of junior church and members of the Beevers, Scouts and Rainbow Guides. Marsden Junior Brass Band will provide the music and accompany the singing of Christmas carols.
A Family Service was held on Sunday at St Bartholomew’s Church, arranged by the Worship group and led by Alison Gibson. The first lesson from Isaiah 40 was read by Margaret O'Connor and the second lesson from Mark 1 was read by Jude Crook. Simon Crook gave an illustrated talk for the children about the true meaning of Christmas. David Fisher gave a talk about what God means to us. Ian Hunt was the organist. Sidesmen were Brian Mitchell and Bunney Lonnen. Coffee was served in the hall by Audrey Armitage and Cynthia Batley. Services continue on Tuesday mornings at 9.30am and Wednesdays December 14 and 21. There is Advent Worship of Reading, Prayer and Singing in Church at 2pm. Tomorrow December 11 there will be dressing up for our Nativity. Young and old are invited to choose a part and tell the Christmas story.
On Saturday December 17 a Christmas Concert will be held in church at 7.30pm, featuring Marsden Silver Prize Band and Colne Valley Male Voice Choir with Rowena Burton (mezzo soprano). Compère will be Peter Armitage. Tickets – adults £8 and children £5 – are available from Duncan’s Hairdresser, Warehouse Hill, Marsden tel: 845311 (shop hours only) the Choir, Marsden Bandroom (telephone 844461) and the church. There will be refreshments and a raffle.
MILNSBRIDGE
At the Milnsbridge Christadelphians on Sunday evening Martin Spencer presided. A packed meeting room was treated to a splendid production by the Sunday school on “How we got our English Bible.” This was followed by thoughts from Tom Colston of Harrogate, who also presented the Sunday school prizes. Refreshments were served to conclude the evening.
On Tuesday morning at 10.30am the popular coffee morning reading group met to read and discuss the Bible readings for the day. This was led by Martin Spencer. At the Bible class on Wednesday evening Paul Rose presided. Andrew Walker from Doncaster gave a talk entitled Another Look at Armageddon. The seminar group met on Thursday evening to continue their study on The Acts of the Apostles. The subject for the Bible talk tomorrow, Sunday, at 6pm is “The earth will be filled with the glory of God.” The Bible class subject on Wednesday December 14 at 7.30pm is “The disciples become Apostles.” Visitors are very welcome to attend meetings and talks.
PARKWOOD
A drop in lunch was held at Parkwood Methodist Church on Wednesday, organised by Freda Lloyd. Menu - chicken and vegetable casserole, potato and onions, syrup sponge, strawberry flan, apple sponge and jam sponge, served with custard or cream, tea or coffee. Assisting were ladies of the church. In the evening a flower arranging demonstration by Karen Longbottom was held in the school room with beautiful floral displays and raffle prizes. Refreshments were provided by ladies of the church. Proceeds were for church funds.
Marion Lloyd welcomed the congregation to Parkwood Methodist church on Sunday morning. Guest preacher was Mrs Christine Shaw, assisted by worship leaders Freda Lloyd, Sandra McSweeney and Barbara Rushforth. Elaine Oldham lit the candles on the Advent ring and Christine Johnson and Margaret Noble placed the symbols on the ‘christmond’ tree. Organist was Kenneth Rothery. Church window decorations by Mary Rothery and family. Coffee was served after the service by ladies of the church.
SLAITHWAITE
Slaithwaite Good Companions enjoyed a Christmas outing. First stop was the garden centre at Dobcross, for coffee and a look at the wonderful indoor and outdoor display. Then over the Snake Pass to Hope in Derbyshire to the Poacher’s Arms for an excellent lunch in beautiful surroundings. This really got members into the mood for the coming season. Home via the Strines and home before dark. Patricia Parkinson thanked Maureen Weaving, our secretary for organising the day – it was certainly a happy one.
On Saturday St James’ Church welcomed people to the Christmas Tree Festival. There were stalls, tombola and food throughout the day, 28 trees on display from local groups and businesses. Susanna Meese, a story teller, told a story of the Little Daughter of the Snow, and had the children spellbound. After the switch on of the Christmas lights more people came to view the trees and enjoy baked potatoes and chilli. The highlight of the evening was the seasonal concert by Slaithwaite Band, conducted by Andrew Booth. Joy the World and the Hallelujah Chorus made a great start. Peter and Andrea on Euphonium played Oh Holy Night. During the first half of the concert visitors were treated by five students from Salendine Nook High School, The Dynamics, making their first public appearance, encouraged by one of the staff, Mrs Sarah Brown. They played jazzy tunes which set the feet tapping. The band continued asking young Lydia out of the audience to play the sleigh bells during one item. During the second half songs came from the Colne Valley Carol Book including Hale Smiling Morn, the Dynamics once more, each of them performing a solo, and young Lydia who would like to be a singer, was invited to sing with them, in Feeling Good. The band played the Colne Valley carol Burnage Villa, and then finishing off the evening with some rousing Christmas music, ending a great evening. A lot of hard work had gone into the day by church members and was greatly appreciated.
St James’ Parish Church Christingle service was led by the children of Slaithwaite CE Junior and Infant School, welcomed by the headmistress Elaine Bradley., The first Advent candle was lit representing the prophets. The hymn Colours of Day was followed by prayers, then bible readings by the children. This was followed by a talk by Simon Parkinson about caring for others, the basis of the Children’s Society and the meaning of the Christingle and its various parts. During the second hymn Shine Jesus Shine, the children brought the collection of monetary gifts, then prayers of intercession followed by the lighting of the Christingles, the children standing all around the church and aisles. The final hymn was Sing Christingle. The blessing was given by Rev Robin Townsend, the organist was Alvy Whitehead. Again, there was a full church for this event and it was greatly enjoyed and there was also a chance to admire the trees and leave messages on the memorial tree.
At Slaithwaite Good Companions, Patricia Parkinson welcomed 15 members of Slaithwaite Methodist Choir to entertain with seasonal songs and carols. First there were the weekly songs, then the Lord Is My Shepherd, a tribute to member, Marion Hirst, aged 97, who died this week. She was a delightful lady, sadly the last of a group who had been members for years. The choir, was conducted by Wendy Redfearn, and pianist was Margaret Stevenson. The choir sang three songs, and Marjory Crowther read poems Christmas Cheer and Thanksgiving. The choir gave While Shepherd's Watched by the tune Ilkley Moor. Wendy the conductor added very humorous tales and jokes. Maureen Weaving recited dialect poems, The Inn Keeper and To My Sister. Further music by the choir including Glory in the Highest and the Goslings. Marjory gave us two more poems The Despairing Lover and Life is Fine. Finally, the choir sang Love and Age and there was a chance for a singalong. They were thanked by Hilda Haigh. Mince pies made by Maureen Weaving, tea and biscuits followed..
St James Parish Church family service was led by the Rev Robin Townsend, assisted by Raymond Denton. The second Advent candle was lit, and the lesson Matthew 24 vs 40-51 was read by Raymond Denton. The the address by Rev Robin was Our We Ready for the Coming of Jesus Christ? If he comes tomorrow how do we spend today? Prayers were led by Patricia Parkinson, the organist was Lynn Blackburn. After the coffee break a short service of Holy Communion was celebrated.
The devotional section of the Wesley Guild were in charge of last Thursday’s meeting. Gordon Ellis was in the chair and opened with prayer. He introduced Carol Pattenden of the Westwood Centre who spoke on creativity and how she expresses through her paintings. She was accompanied by husband Colin who read his poems and showed a scrapbook he had put together depicting the parables of Jesus. Supper was served by the committee ladies.
Sunday morning worship at the Methodist Church was led by Liz Bishop of Linthwaite. The Advent Calendar of Peace was lit by Wendy and Marjory read the Advent prayer. Liz spoke of having patience. Sandra Dalton read from Isaiah 40 and Bessie Whitwam read from Mark’s Gospel the Story of John the Baptist. Organist was Shirley Scott.
The Women’s Fellowship held their Christmas party on Tuesday and welcomed the Rev Jo Archer-Siddal, Miriam and Betty Fleming and daughter Kathryn. A three course meal was enjoyed, catered by Andrea Morley. Maureen read Christmas poems and accompanied carols. Next meeting: in January.
