BROCKHOLES

Holy communion at St George’s Church was conducted by the Rev Liam Beadle, who spoke about the Transforming Power of Christ. Margaret Kenworthy read the lesson and Elizabeth Mosley was the server. Kate Drake played the piano.

In the evening, the closing event of the 150th anniversary celebrations took the form of a concert. This was directed by Noel Clark and began with choral items from the Messiah followed by a variety of solos sung by Sarah Ogden, Thom Meredith and Barbara Brook. Instrumental soloists were John Turnbull on drums as well as Julian Whiteman and Rebecca Robertson on trumpets. The accompanists were Malcolm Hinchliffe on the organ and pianists Sue Ogden and Keith Swallow. The concert also featured Carrement Sax, a quartet of saxophonists visiting from Paris. The audience were invited to join in some items and everyone enjoyed refreshments al fresco during the interval.

Mrs Barbara Rochester led the service at the Methodist Church. Mr Robert Booth played the organ. Jan Gaunt and Graham Nicholson read the Scriptures. Mr Nicholson also welcomed the congregation and Janet Grant provided refreshments.

HOLMBRIDGE

St David’s parochial church council met on Tuesday chaired by the Rev Nick Heaton. The Rev Nick Heaton led Holy Communion on Wednesday when lessons were read by Ian Gold. The Monkey Business, free lunch and Over 60s Club were held. Friday evening prayers were led by Ian Gold.

On Saturday, the wedding took place of Robert Savin and Rebecca Herring. The ceremony was conducted by the Rev Nick Heaton and the organist was Jean Chadwick.

Parish Eucharist with creche and young people’s groups was conducted by the Rev Geoff Bamford when lessons were read by Sandy Wise and Carolyn Burley, who also led intercessions. The chalice was administered by Ian Gold and the organist was Jean Chadwick.

HOLMFIRTH

Last Sunday morning’s All Age Worship at the Methodist Church was led by Michael Tolson.The young people were encouraged to share their ‘good news stories’ from the past week and the wider congregation joined in. Teresa Turner used the ‘Youth Bible’ to read a passage from the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Galatians (the people of modern day Turkey). Michael went on to point out how it contained Paul’s clear message of inclusivity for an early church community that was in danger of fragmenting into exclusive factions. He reflected on how quickly and clearly all faith groups in the community of Woolwich, including the Christian Church, had roundly condemned extremism following the death of Drummer Lee Rigby. Michael emphasised how good it was to hear such a message of ‘unity in diversity’ in the face of such dreadful events. Then, quoting a discourse from Jesus in Matthew’s Gospel, he explained how we all act as Apostles when we share with others the unambiguous word of a loving and forgiving God. He concluded by encouraging the congregation to be courageous in proclaiming the good news of a Gospel of grace and peace.

Sunday’s worship at the Methodist Church, led by Rev Laura Hardy, celebrated 70 years of MHA, Methodist Homes for the Aged. Throughout the service appropriate bible readings, hymns and prayers emphasised the value and worth of older members of our Church and community. “Life at any age is full of possibilities” was cleverly illustrated by a poem, Warning, read, on screen, by the poet, Jenny Joseph. A short story, read by Joan Tolson, entitled Gran captivated everyone, especially the young children. Readings from the Bible were sensitively given by Keith Kitson, Pat Haywood and Linda Kitson.

A number of visitors were welcomed into worship, including the son of a former Minister (1956-60), Rev Alfred Beardsley. The building developments are progressing well with the stairs to the new first floor due to be installed this week. Good news from the Treasurer on the financial front; another grant, donations and tile sales have brought down the outstanding sum to approximately £10,000, so tile purchases are still most welcome.

HONLEY

Peru and the Inca Trail was the title of a talk given by John Whiteley, who was paying a return visit to the Probus Club. His talk, which was illustrated by slides, described a visit which included Cuzco, Lima and the ruined Inca city of Machu Picchu. The vote of thanks was proposed by Viv Flynn.

Parish eucharist at St Mary’s Church was led by the Rev Liam Beadle. John Adams read the lesson and was the server. Carol Hirst led intercessions. Lawrence Jones and Mary Stapleton assisted at communion and the organist was Jean Cheeseman.

Members of St Mary’s Mothers’ Union and friends enjoyed their annual summer lunch at The Huntsman. The event was organised by Andrea Green.

NEW MILL

On Trinity Sunday, Christ Church congregation enjoyed traditional hymns, and visiting preacher Steven Harvey spoke about the Trinity.The Rev Sean Robertshaw baptised Ruby Townsend.

The service on June 2 marked the 60th anniversary of the Queen's Coronation by the singing of All People That On Earth Do Dwell with the fanfares written by Vaughan Williams for the Coronation. Rev Sean Robertshaw posed the question "how do we deal with difficult news?" - such as the murder of Lee Rigby. Babies Darcey Bodsworth, Lily Utley and Jacob Rodgers and their parents were blessed by Rev Ailsa Brooke in a Thanksgiving service. Jo Cole was the soloist in the choir's communion anthem Lead me, Lord, and the church rock band played before and after the service.

UPPERTHONG

The Tuesday morning prayer breakfast was held at the Hopkins’ home. Holy Communion on Thursday at St John’s was conducted by the Rev Di Ellerton, who was also the celebrant. Lunch followed.

The Sunday service was led by the Rev Di Ellerton, who also delivered the sermon and was the celebrant. The readers were Angela Cole and Hilary Roberts. Ray Thompson gave prayers and assisted with the chalice. Hazel Thompson was the organist and refreshments afterwards were served by David Steele.

WILSHAW

St Mary’s Church held a flower festival as part of their 150th birthday celebrations last weekend and the church was open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The theme was a history of the church and the organisations within it, such as choir, Sunday school, music group, ministers and the founders Joseph and Eleanor Hirst. Floral displays and photographs illustrated the theme and also reflected the spiritual side of the worship and communion shared down the last 150 years. Floral arrangements also reflected the East window, church trips, the church banner, the school, the church and the alms houses and thanks go to all “flower ladies” for their talent and expertise. A very enjoyable concert was held on Saturday evening with musicians The Wood Family and a small but select section of Hade Edge Community Choir. A service of thanksgiving and celebration was held on Sunday morning. Rev Judy Kenworthy led the service, Joan Andrews read the lesson and Clive Pearson was the organist. Thanks go to all those who worked so hard, side by side to bring glory to God.