St Mary's Church Richmond with Hudswell and Downholme and Marske

www.richmondhudswellparish.org.uk We aim - to show how God through the Church, with its worship, teaching and service is relevant to modern living.

Wed 1st

9.30am for 10.15start

Richmond Flower Arranging Club at Hudswell Village Hall

Thurs 2nd 11.30am

1st Thursday Prayers at Holy Trinity

Wed 8th

7.30pm

Archdeacon’s Visitation

Sun 12th

3pm

Hudswell Does Fun-Key all-age worship Hudswell Village Hall.

Thur 16th 7pm

Reader/Theological Study Explorers Evening at Colburn Village Hall. Ann Nicholl, 0113 2694045 or anicholl@parkland17.freeserve.co.uk

Sat 18th

7.30pm

North Yorkshire Chorus - Music to celebrate the Coronation

Mon 20th

2pm

Swale Women’s Institute at the Scout Hut

Sat 25th

9am

Coffee Morning at Richmond Town Hall in aid of Richmond Flower Arranging Club

Sun 26th

10am 4pm

Richmond Meet Service Fun-Key Church @ St Mary’s Richmond with Fun-Key Tower Café and activities from 3.40pm

Wed 29th 7.30pm

Hudswell Garden Club at Hudswell Village Hall

Thur 30th 7pm

Corpus Christi Festival

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Calendar and Contents

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Richmond CofE Primary

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Ministry Team

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Richmond CofE Primary cont

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From the Rectory

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Mouse Makes, Big Night Out 2013

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Prayer Diary for May 2013

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Fun-Key Churches

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What’s on in May 2013

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The Knitted Bible Exhibition

P6-19 Annual Report 2013

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No Nepal Visit This Year

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Adverts

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From The Registers, Car Transport

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Adverts cont, MU Report

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Services Rota

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Rotas etc, 200 Club

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THE PARISH OF RICHMOND WITH HUDSWELL AND DOWNHOLME AND MARSKE

www.richmondhudswellparish.org.uk

MINISTRY TEAM RECTOR Rev’d John R Chambers The Rectory, Church Wynd 821241 0787 5348245 j_echambers@btinternet.com CURATE Rev’d Antony Kirby 850349 07594615180 antonykirby01@btinternet.com HONORARY CLERGY Rev’d Mark Beresford-Peirse Mrs Joy Hornsby Mr Scott Lunn Mrs Joan Plowman

Rev’d Jennifer Williamson

READERS

Rev’d Bill Simms

2 Olliver Road 2 Hurgill Road 7 White Friars Gardens

826490 826895 822792

1 Roper Court

850693

PASTORAL ASSISTANT

Mrs Jennifer Patrick

ACORN CHRISTIAN LISTENERS

Mrs Jennifer Patrick 850693 Dr Sheila Harrisson 822059 Mrs Ruth Brown 825270 CHURCH OFFICERS - THE PARISH CHURCH OF ST MARY THE VIRGIN, RICHMOND Mayor’s Warden Rector’s Warden Deputy Churchwarden Organist & Choir Director Upbeat & Anacrucis Dir Bell Captain Head Verger Church Booking Secretary Parish Administrator

Secretary Treasurer Assistant Treasurer

Mr David Frankton Mr John Clarke Mrs Judith McLeod Mr Colin Hicks Mrs Carol Gedye Mrs Susan Welch Mr Dennis Stedman Mr Michael Clayson Julia Mole

8 Alans Court 823531 5 Cornforth Hill 826793 7 Flints Terrace 825557 1 Willow Crescent 821464 55 Maison Dieu 824795 14 Aske Avenue 823700 4 York View 824664 michaelclayson@talktalk.net 822631 pa.richmondhudswellparish@gmail.com 07891004560 OFFICERS OF THE PCC AND OTHERS Mrs Jennifer Patrick 1 Roper Court 850693 Mrs Sue Gudgeon 11 Maltby Court, D’ton 01325 462148 Julia Mole 07891004560

FWO Secretaries Mr Don & Mrs Joy Wade 11 Moorside Road 821062 Magazine Editor Gillian Lunn 2 Hurgill Road 826895 Magazine Distribution Mrs Sarah Dawes 52 Frenchgate 824944 Magazine Adverts Mr Frank Gibbon 23 Westfields 821002 FOR THE PARISH CHURCH OF ST MICHAEL & ALL ANGELS, HUDSWELL Organist Mrs Valerie Strawbridge 15 Boundary Way 821440 FOR THE PARISH OF ST MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS, DOWNHOLME Reader Mr George Alderson 68 Brompton Park, B on Swale 818865 Church Wardens Mr Gerry Lederer Old Vicarage, Downholme 825624 Mrs Jean Calvert Thorpe Farm, Reeth Road, Richmond Church Treasurer Mr John Horseman Echlinville, Hudswell, Richmond 826216 Reader Church Wardens Organist

FOR THE PARISH OF ST EDMUNDS, MARSKE Mr David Stoneham Ivy Cottage, Marske Mrs Jean Wallis Bungalow, Park Top, Marske Mrs Ruth Tindale Skelton Lodge, Marske Mrs Jennifer Wallis 1 School Terrace, Marske 2

822418 823712 823371 822930

From The Rectory

MAY 2013

St Michael & All Angels Hudswell At the annual church meeting held 11th April we reflected on 2012 and looked forward to the coming year.

Dave Wilkinson stepped down as Churchwarden after over twenty six years of valiant service. We owe Dave and Carol a great debt of gratitude for their hard work and support for the church over many years. Their wonderful Wine and Savoury evenings have raised thousands of pounds over the years for the ministry of the church.

Sadly no-one has offered to step forward as Churchwarden so we had to look at the future with no churchwardens, no treasurer, no significant fund raising and dwindling congregations. Indeed at some services the numbers were as low as two.

It seems clear that the community want their church building for the major services, such as Christmas, Easter and Harvest, together with local baptisms, weddings, and funerals. Fun-Key Church is growing but is held in the Village Hall.

The parish church is for the community in which it serves and therefore it has been decided to respond to the needs of the village.

With immediate effect, there will be no more bi – monthly services held in church.

The church will open for major services such as Christmas, Easter and Harvest and Mothering Sunday. It will continue to be available for local baptisms, weddings, and funerals.

Fun-Key will continue on the second Sunday of the month at 3:00pm in the Village Hall.

In many ways this a sad day in the life of the church which has served the village of Hudswell for many years. However the members were all agreed that this is a positive reaction to the clear desire of the community.

A letter will be delivered to every house in Hudswell explaining the changes and also highlighting the pattern of worship in nearby Downholme and Richmond.

The Rector

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PRAYER DIARY FOR MAY 2013 - we pray for …...

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FOR A SENSE OF HUMOUR AND FUN, FOR RICHMOND FLOWER CLUB 1ST THURSDAY PRAYERS, FOR ALL PARTICIPATING IN LOCAL ELECTIONS. REMEMBERING THE PRIVILEGE WE HAVE TO VOTE WHILST OTHERS ARE STILL FIGHTING TO GAIN THIS. ALL IN NEED OF FRIENDSHIP, LOVE AND OUR TIME, OUR BISHOPS JAMES AND JOHN AS DIOCESAN BOUNDARY CHANGES ARE DISCUSSED. FOR ARCHBISHOP OF YORK - WISDOM ALL PARTICIPATING IN THE MSI COURSE AT HUDSWELL-THE ABILITY TO SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY FOR SYBIL AND ALLAN REED AS THEY SETTLE INTO THEIR NEW HOME ROGATION SUNDAY—WE ASK FOR GOD’S BLESSING ON THE SEED AND LAND FOR THE YEAR AHEAD. ALL WHO WORK, SUPPORT AND ATTEND OUR SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES FOR THE ABILITY TO SHOW LOVE AND GRACE AT ALL TIMES. FOR THE ARCHDEACON NICHOLAS HENSHALL’S VISITATION ASCENSION DAY, ALL UNSEEN WORKERS IN CHURCH AND COMMUNITY FOR READERS THROUGHOUT THE DEANERY AND DIOCESE HOMESTART - FOR ALL WHO VOLUNTEER AND ALL WHO BENEFIT FOR CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 12-18TH MAY, HUDSWELL DOES FUN-KEY CHURCH IN THE VILLAGE HALL FOR EXCITEMENT & ANTICIPATION. THE RESIDENTS OF HURGILL ROAD, SYCAMORE AVENUE AND QUAKER LANE. ALL WHO HOLD OFFICE IN OUR COMMUNITY AND CHURCHES. ARCHBISHOP OF YORK YOUTH TRUST PROJECT RICHMOND COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER SERVICE OUR MAYOR, OUR MP AND ALL IN LOCAL, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL POLITICS ALL WHO ARE SICK IN BODY, MIND OR SPIRIT ALL WHO SUFFER FROM RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION PARTICULARLY THOSE LIVING IN NORTH KOREA, SYRIA, NIGERIA, MALI AND IRAQ PENTECOST/WHIT SUNDAY, THOSE ON THE EDGE OF COPING FINANCIALLY. FOR THE STOREHOUSE AND ALL WHO PROVIDE FOR IT AND BENEFIT FROM IT. SWALE WOMENS’ INSTITUTE, MEDICAL AND EMERGENCY SERVICES, ALL WHO ARE MOURNING LOVED ONES MEMBERS OF OUR ARMED FORCES BASED BOTH AT HOME AND ABROAD, AND FOR THEIR FAMILIES AT HOME OUR ENVIRONMENT THAT WE MAY NURTURE AND LOVE IT ALL LOOKING TO WHAT THEIR FUTURE AND DIRECTION MAY BE. THE RICHMOND MEET—THAT PEOPLE MAY ENJOY GATHERING AS A COMMUNITY AND SHOW SUPPORT AND LOVE FOR ONE-ANOTHER. WE PRAY FOR ORGANISERS AND PARTICIPANTS RICHMOND FLOWER CLUB COFFEE MORNING AT RICHMOND TOWN HALL, FOR FRIENDSHIPS—THAT WE NEVER FORGET THEIR IMPORTANCE TRINITY SUNDAY, FUN-KEY CHURCH @ST MARY’S THE NEPALI COMMUNITY IN CATTERICK RIPON CATHEDRAL HUDSWELL GARDEN CLUB, THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE THROUGH LOVE CORPUS CHRISTI, OUR MOTHERS UNION LOCALLY, NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY THE KNITTED BIBLE EXHIBITION - SUPPORT FOR THOSE ORGANISING AND EXCITEMENT FOR THOSE LOOKING FORWARD TO COMING.

WHAT’S ON IN MAY 2013 RICHMOND FLOWER CLUB WEDNESDAY 1ST MAY -

FUN-KEY CHURCH @ ST MARY’S RICHMOND - SUNDAY 26TH MAY (with activities, puzzles and Mothers’

Meeting at Hudswell Village Hall at 10.15am, with coffee from 9.30am.

Everyone is welcome. We will be having a demonstration by Mrs Kath Gibson entitled “Inspirational Moments”.

Union refreshments from 3.40pm and service starting at 4pm). Please see FunKey Page

HUDSWELL GARDEN CLUB - WED 29TH MAY at HUDSWELL VILLAGE

Please note - There will be a coffee morning in Richmond Town Hall on Saturday 25th May in aid of Richmond Flower Club.

Please note - A 2 night/3 day visit to Biddulph Gardens, Chester and Arley Hall and Gardens is arranged for 12th-14th July 2013. Please check with Judy Farrar on 01748 824514 if you would like to join this visit.

HALL £2 Guests very welcome. This is an Outdoor meeting – Orchids & other wildflowers. Please meet 7pm at Village Hall. For more information please contact Babs Walton (Chairman) on 850884

THE RICHMOND MEET - 24TH-27TH MAY 2013 Including Richmond Meet Service on Sunday 26th May at 10am. All welcome

1ST THURSDAY PRAYERS 2ND MAY AT 11.30AM IN HOLY TRINITY CHURCH. Everyone is most welcome to join people from local churches to pray for our community and causes close to their hearts.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY FRIDAY 21ST JUNE - FRIENDS OF ST MARY’S BBQ - A family friendly social evening to be held in the church grounds if dry and in church if wet.

Evening starts at 6.30pm and food will be available from 7pm. Tickets will be available nearer the time from members of the committee.

HUDSWELL DOES FUN-KEY SUN 12TH MAY @ 3PM IN HUDSWELL VILLAGE HALL Relaxed, warm, welcoming and full of fun, faith and fellowship please see page Any questions please call Gillian on 07592016476 Please see blog for details - http:// hudswellitdoesfunkeychurch.wordpress.co m/

SWALE WOMENS’ INSTITUTE MONDAY 20TH MAY AT THE SCOUT HUT AT 2PM. A newly formed group to which new members are particularly welcome. 821238/836663 5

St Mary The Virgin Parish Church, Richmond, North Yorkshire ANNUAL CHURCH REPORT 2012-2013

THE RECTOR’S REPORT This year has been another interesting and challenging year in the life of our two communities, Richmond and Hudswell.

During the year your ministry team has continued to work together and the balance of experience, wisdom and energy has been a delight and I am so grateful to all the team. Allan and Sybil Reed have worked so hard to further the mission and ministry of this parish and we thank God for their work as they leave Richmond. We ask God’s blessing on them.

This year Rev Antony was priested and his ministry is much valued as he continues to train and minister in our midst. The service in July when Antony presided at the Eucharist for the first time was a very moving occasion for us all.

The links with the CofE Primary school and St Francis Xavier School continue to grow and it has been a pleasure to work closely with the staff of both schools. Being appointed Chaplain to the Primary school has helped to further the relationship between church and school. It is important that the link is not just in word but in action and it is lovely to see so many members of the church involved in significant roles in school.

This year I was privileged to be asked by Bishop John to be the Assistant Area Dean of the Richmond Deanery and to also serve as Rural advisor on the Diocesan Urban Task Group.

However, whilst all this is valuable and an opportunity to work in the wider church, I believe that parish ministry is about being involved in the community in God’s name and I have enjoyed becoming involved in many aspects.

Ministry of our churches through Occasional Offices is as busy as ever.

In 2012 we had: Funerals 55 Weddings 15 Baptisms 47

In 2011 we had:Funerals 50 Weddings 16 Baptisms 19

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This April we celebrate the first birthday of our new service – Fun-Key church and the introduction of the BCP Holy Communion service. Fun-Key was developed to encourage churched and non churched folks of all ages to learn more of what it means to be part of Christ’s kingdom. It is a joy to see so many people coming to faith through this more informal, liquid, fresh expression of church. The recent launch of Fun-Key in Hudswell is another example of reaching out and spreading the Good News to the many who, for a variety of reasons, do not consider traditional church is for them.

The development of a worship pattern which reaches out to the whole community is clearly challenging to us all. There are inevitably differences of approach, demands and working practices involved in such an outgoing parish church as St Mary’s. I thank you and encourage you all to give thanks to God for the way in which the Holy Spirit is enabling us to work together in his name. Let us remember, before we complain about “this, that or the other”, that we are all God’s disciples working for him, with love and grace - not competing but working together.

Worship is key in our church ministry and we are blessed with exceptional musical talent in our robed choir and Anacrusis and Upbeat.

The successful stewardship campaign has given us the confidence to go forward in God’s name and I thank you for your amazing generosity. Ask any parish priest what the main challenge is to their ministry and the answer will always be administration. I thank you that we have been able to at last have the services of a part time parish administrator. Julia is beginning to get our busy administration organised and already the six hours a week are proving insufficient.

There are too many people to thank for their contribution to the work of the churches in Richmond with Hudswell but I particularly want to highlight the work of our Churchwardens and Treasurer. Dave Wilkinson announced last year that he will be stepping down this April. The fact that no-one has stepped forward to take over as churchwarden at St Michael and All Angel’s Hudswell will add to an already challenging situation.

A few months ago an assistant treasurer was appointed and once the roles are more clearly defined and transparent to all, this increasingly enormous task will be more manageable and provide a positive contribution to the management of the ministry of both churches.

Reading an account of the history of St Mary’s church, I have discovered that there is a Latin inscription on the canopy of the Easby Stalls which indicates the breaches in monastic discipline. They include “extravagant living, church gossip, disobedience in the young and complacency in the old.” I make no comment.

I finish my report as I did last year. God has blessed us with the gift of so many talents and skills and it really is exciting to look to the future, to discern his will for us and his church. Let us use those gifts to reach out to the community in his name.

John Chambers RECTOR 7

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT Events which have taken place in the last year:  Antony Kirby was ordained priest on 1st July 2012  Fun-Key Church was launched, at 4.00 pm on the last Sunday of every month; the annual pet service was well supported with 125 people and 50 animals; a special service with the Archbishop of York was very successful, and warmly commended by him in a report on his visit.

Financial help for Fun-Key Church @ St Mary’s was applied for and received from the Fresh Expressions Fund  Fun-Key Church afternoon service was also launched in Hudswell and is held at 3.pm on the second Sunday of each month at the Village Hall  The liturgy for Holy Communion from the Book of Common Prayer was introduced at the 8.00 am service at St Mary’s  The frequency of PCC meetings was altered from quarterly to every two months  Metal sockets were sunk to allow a double-sided, braced notice board to be erected in St Mary’s churchyard near Station Road to advertise FunKey and other church events  The notice boards on Church Wynd, Holy Trinity and at the south church gate were renewed  Julia Mole was appointed parish administrator and voluntary assistant church treasurer  The successful Firm Foundations stewardship campaign was launched and confirmed the generosity of the congregation, indicating a vote of confidence in the church’s way forward  Residents in the Richmond care homes and sheltered accommodation complexes, and patients in the Friary Hospital, were all visited regularly with Holy Communion; bereaved families were visited regularly after the funeral  Loose stone slabs on the north porch roof were replaced  Repairs to the tower base and the steps at the north porch approach and to their retaining wall were completed, financed by the Town Council  Roof repairs were carried out to Holy Trinity Chapel  The churchyard was further cleared of undergrowth and the enormous compost heap removed by a team comprising the Mayor and members of the Richmond Town Council and of Richmond Pride, and the Churchwardens  Three trees were felled and the south footpath reinstated, and all footpaths resurfaced  Emergency interior lighting was installed for the building’s exits  The interior of St Mary’s was improved by the removal of the staging blocks  Michael Clayson was asked to take charge of bookings of the church building  Statutory fees for clergy at weddings and funerals must not be exceeded, but additional fees to the PCC were approved for heating, lighting and the service of a verger and choristers, plus fees to the organist and bell ringers.

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Planning is continuing for:  the revision of child protection and safeguarding procedures in the light of changes to legislation, and the renewal of Criminal Records Bureau applications  the installation of safety gates at the top of the Green Howards’ Chapel steps, for which there have been offers of donations  the installation of wheelchair access to the church building and of toilet facilities for the disabled  the redecoration of Holy Trinity after the drying out of the interior  an exhibition of knitted figures illustrating bible stories that will take place in St Mary’s on the weekend of Thursday 27th – 30th June 2013, the tableaux to be supplied by the United Reformed Church, Hartlepool Jennifer Patrick PCC Secretary

CHURCHWARDENS’ REPORT

The fabric of St Mary’s continues to be a concern as the maintenance of such an old building is fraught with financial issues.

The Stewardship Mission organised by David Frankton has been a great help in increasing our income and he must be congratulated on his commitment to carrying through the programme. This was not a good time to encourage people to increase their giving when the whole country is feeling the pinch, but he was determined and successful. We are most grateful to him for all his work.

We also have a group of willing helpers who forgo coffee on Sunday mornings in order to count the collection, which is then banked by churchwardens. It is important that this task is seen to be done correctly and a true audit trail of our collection is maintained.

The boilers have recently been serviced, requiring new parts, but hopefully they will continue to maintain a reasonable temperature. They have been challenged during the last winter, particularly when we realised that one of them was not working, but leaving the heating on for the whole of December, made life more comfortable for us all. We are extremely grateful to an anonymous donor who gave the money for the extra heat.

A group has been set up to look into the provision of facilities for disabled people and the work planning is going well. We are also in the process of making plans for gates at the Green Howards’ Chapel entrance, which will make for safer access, particularly when Anacrucis sing. This will be jointly funded by an anonymous donation and the Association.

After a number of years of discussion with the Town Council, during the past two years there have been changes in personnel and councillors which has brought about a new situation; they have taken up their responsibilities and are doing a terrific job in maintaining the whole space. Not only has the path to Station Road been re-surfaced there is ongoing pruning and removal of old trees, which enhances the whole of the churchyard. Once more, we need to express our gratitude for the commitment the Town Council have shown to this project.

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You have a group of committed churchwardens who do all in the power to ensure that services run smoothly but since the death of Bob Moxon and Claude Thornton there has been a gap in the work of Vergers, who oversee the day to day servicing of our building and worship, which includes many extra services required by our wider community. A new initiative to overcome the situation is being addressed by the Rector who is drawing up a job description.

John Clarke

BELL TOWER REPORT 2012 has been another well supported year in the belfry, where we have been lucky to regularly have 8 ringers or more to ring for Sunday morning services. As well as our familiar faces we have been pleased to welcome Keith and John to the band, Keith recruited from the congregation and John recruited directly by the tower captain!

Individual landmarks this year have included Glenys ringing her first quarter peal and Sue ringing her first quarter inside. Both of these required extended concentration and they will tell you what a challenge they were! Tim has made great progress, ringing his first peal on 12 bells at Stockton-on-Tees and being elected to the Ancient Society of College Youths, a national association of elite ringers. He was also the conductor of the Yorkshire association band who came joint third in the National Youth ringing competition and hopes to enter again this year. As a team we also returned victorious from the Bible Society quiz at the Methodist church.

This year we have been involved in celebrating a number of special occasions: national, local and for the tower. We were happy to ring in celebration of the Queen's Jubilee in June and received a certificate from the Lord Lieutenant in recognition of our labours. We also rang to mark the passing of the Olympic torch through Richmond. In December, just after Christmas, a quarter peal was rung to celebrate John and Susan's wedding at St Mary's. The composition of Bristol and Yorkshire spliced was carefully balanced with the same number of changes of each to reflect an equal partnership between a Yorkshire bride and Bristol groom!

Thanks should go to everyone who has been involved this year in keeping the bells ringing for services. Our practice night is on Tuesdays from 7.30 – 9.00 and new ringers, young and old, are always most welcome. Please contact Susan Welch, Peter Trewby or any of the other ringers if you are interested.

Susan Welch Tower Captain

CHRISTIANS TOGETHER IN RICHMOND REPORT Summary of activities 2012 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Lunchtime prayers at Holy Trinity, Agape Meal and United Service at the Methodist Church Lent programme. Six home groups with about 62 people in all from different churches, studying ‘The Lord’s Prayer’.

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Holy Week. The usual lunchtime prayers at HT and Good Friday procession.

Coffee mornings. 25 Feb and a later one organised by King’s Church to raise funds for Alpha.

Christian Aid Week. There was a presentation from a representative of Christian Aid and the collection amounted to a record £4571.

Olympic Torch visit. Representatives of the churches distributed drinks and Christian booklets outside the Methodist Church during the visit.

Jubilee Picnic. Held in Ronaldshay Park on 3 June and enjoyed in spite of dodgy weather.

Sports Quiz. Held at the Cricket Club and organised by Keith Bamford. Relatively small numbers attended, but successful none the less.

Alpha course. Organised by Keith Hall on an ecumenical pattern at Greyfriars. About 22 people registered, though a few dropped out. Many expressed appreciation of the course and the interaction with Christians from other churches. Some lives were significantly changed.

Discussions on community involvement. There was a presentation by representatives of the Hope Project in Wensleydale and discussions about involvement in food bank. However further action on this was pre-empted by the Mayor’s introduction of a food bank based on the Influence Church. However we can (and do) contribute to this as churches and individuals. Keith Hall is keeping us informed about possible uses of the old Richmond Lower School, which is being re-furbished.

New notice board. Outside Holy Trinity, matching St Mary’s new board and with replaceable panels for updating information.

TRY. Members were kept informed of activities, including the Community Fair and Diversity Week. A Foxglove Covert visit was organised by St Mary’s.

First Thursday Prayers. Monthly at Holy Trinity. These continued, with about 6 people at each meeting.

Funds. Enough money was raised through Coffee Mornings to pay for the Notice Board and leaflets for the Olympic Torch visit and to support the Alpha Course.

Update April 2013 AGM 11 Feb. John Chambers was appointed Chairman, Keith Hall Treasurer.

Much appreciation was expressed for Alan and Sybil Reed.

Lent Course. A course on Christian Vocation was followed in several home groups with different church representation.

John Dickinson Secretary

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COMMUNICATIONS TEAM REPORT The Communication Team met three times in the previous 12 months.

The following activities have taken place: Special thanks go to four members of the team:

to David Frankton for the major contribution he makes to the church’s ministry behind the scenes by printing in-house the monthly magazine, the weekly pewsheets, notices and almost all the other printing for special church services and events; to Frank Gibbon for continuing the onerous and time-consuming task of organising magazine advertising; to John Blenkiron for dealing with ‘occasional’ payments for magazines by visitors and others to Anne Simpson who has resigned from the team after long and productive service.

The magazine team involves a considerable number of the congregation in its various activities: compilation, printing, collating, distribution and advertising. About 400 magazines are printed for distribution to homes, care homes, churches, tourist accommodation, hotels, and libraries in the local community every month.

Details of Sunday services are published each week in the Darlington & Stockton Times and special events are printed in the monthly What’s On in Richmond.

The Team is pleased to continue its association with the local printing firm, Richmond Print. The outcome of a review of the printing required was very constructive.

The parish website provides a source of information for the congregation and the wider community, including: how to find us; a brief history of our churches; interesting things to see in St Mary’s; details of services, facilities and events; a number of excellent photographs and a location map. The website is well used.

Parish website address: www.richmondhudswellparish.org.uk The national website ‘A Church Near You ’ lists 217 churches in the Ripon & Leeds diocese including the four in our own benefice (St Mary’s, Richmond; St Michael & All Angels, Hudswell; St Michael & All Angels, Downholme; St Edmund’s, Marske).

Details of all weekly and occasional services in the four churches are given on the national website: A Church Near You website address: www.achurcyhnearyou.com Special events, e.g. exhibitions and concerts, inter-denominational services and agape, study-groups, the Lent study programme, bellringing and embroiderers’ activities and the more recent Fun-Key Church activities are advertised on the parish website, the Richmond Online website, in the local tourist information office and in the local press.

Sheila Harrisson Chairman

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DEANERY SYNOD REPORT Three meetings were held in Colburn Church Hall during the year.

Bishop John joined the second Deanery Synod to explain details of the proposed new diocese and to take part in one of the many discussions about woman in the episcopate.

The death of Kathryn Carr, the previous Deanery Synod Lay Chair and General Synod member for several years was noted with sadness, The following topics were discussed and votes taken when appropriate: Women in the Episcopate [a letter was sent from the Synod to the Diocesan Secretary expressing Synod’s disappointment at the lack of progress on this issue];  Proposals and progress regarding the formation and implications of a single Diocese to include the existing Diocese of Ripon & Leeds, Bradford and Wakefield;  Mission Resourcing Team & Rural Task Group, both providing assistance for parishes;  Elections to General Synod;  Plans for Deanery Lay Training Project;  Deanery Easter Youth Event 2012;, including St Mary’s Fun-Key Church and Pet Services;  Ascension Day Service at Grinton;  Diocesan Board of Education Report;  Environmental Issues including church-based and home-based carbon reduction measures;  Fair Trade issues; Guidelines on the use of social media.

Sheila Harrisson Deanery Synod representative

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THE FRIENDS OF ST MARY’S REPORT The Friends have been involved with several fundraising events over the year in one capacity or another. Many of them have involved the provision of refreshments and some of us have become expert at wielding flasks and tea pots. Refreshments for concerts include two for the Swaledale festival, the Jubilee Concert with the Station Singers, Muker Band Welcome Christmas and also the Cambrai Band who very generously gave all their proceeds to St Mary’s.

Margaret Emmerson has once again organised three successful trips, to Boundary Mills, Carlisle and York. Despite the wet evening a most enjoyable BBQ took place, using the inside and the outside of the church.. Amongst the entertainment we were privileged to hear Antony Kirby and his son Luke play a bagpipe duet.

The money raised has been used to provide Easter eggs for the choir, church signs, chair covers and help in the outgoings for the new Fun-Key service. The Friends were also able to support the stewardship campaign by helping to organise the Beetle Drive.

The committee is always looking for new ideas and new members so please speak to either Susan Wallis (Secretary) 518575 or Liz Chambers (Chair) 821241 13

MONDAY MORNING TODDLER GROUP REPORT is just as it says – we meet on a Monday about 10am in the Methodist Church Hall and enjoy a time of fun and friendship for any children aged between 0 and under 5 years old and their adult carer. Tea, coffee, juice, fruit and healthy snacks await and even more important a warm welcome.

Staffed by a hugely enthusiastic and loving team from both Richmond Methodist Church and St Mary’s Church, helpers include Joy Hornsby, Freda Dykes, Liz Chambers, Jennifer Patrick, Gillian, Margaret Andrews, Susan Scrafton and Edna Roberts.

Free flow play with a variety of toys for a variety of ages is followed by singing, stories, action games and fun.

Numbers vary between 15 children and 25 depending on the weather and time of year, but what doesn’t vary is the real privilege that it is to be able to spend time with each other, enjoying each other’s company, encouragement and the space to do it in such a friendly way.

A lovely opportunity for people to come together and often without realising it, be a big support and company for each other.

Gillian Lunn

PASTORAL TEAM REPORT Pastoral care is a very important part of the church’s ministry, and the pastoral team was set up to co-ordinate and carry out this work, operating under rules of strict confidence. It has met 4 times in the last year, to review the needs of the parish and to ensure all known needs are being met.

Every month Holy Communion is taken to all the nursing homes and sheltered housing in the town for those who wish to receive it, with other visits between times. There are weekly visits to the Friary hospital, and visits to parishioners at home who are sick or no longer able to get to church, where that is required. Holy Communion is also offered to the housebound.

Follow-up calls and visits are made to families following baptisms, where appropriate, and also to bereaved families, in consultation with the clergy. This is very much appreciated by many; the length and type of contact depends on individual circumstances. There are Christian Listeners available should anyone wish to talk over any problems in confidence. There is also a separate team of drivers who are willing to provide transport to church, shops or hospital appointments.

It is very important that all members of the congregation are alert to the possibility of people needing help or prayer, and let the team or the clergy know.

Members of the team: Rev John, Rev Antony, Ruth Brown, Margaret Clayson, John Dickinson, Sheila Harrisson, Joy Hornsby, Joyce Kirby, Jennifer Patrick, Joan Plowman.

Joan Plowman

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ST MARY’S CHURCH CHOIR REPORT 2012 was another varied and interesting year during which we supported worship not only at St. Mary’s but also as the choir for Evensong at Ripon Cathedral to celebrate the installation of the Director of Ministry. The high standard of our singers both young and not so young are appreciated by many especially the highlight of the choir month, Evensong on the second Sunday.

Sadly we lost Alto Jackie Robinson early in 2012 and we appreciate her long and devoted service to the choir and miss having her around. Our sad loss, but the choir of angels gains one very experienced singer.

The Junior Choir (the trebles) are probably as good now as I have ever known them to be. We have an unusual mix of experience and young learners and the overall effect is quite amazing and unique within the area for a Parish Church. The RSCM observe that choirs are often overlooked when work with young people of the church is discussed, but youth group it definitely is. Our young school age singers commit between 4 – 7 hours a week to the choir and along with the continuing support and commitment from our Adult singers who act as mentors, experienced performers etc, we have been able to support worship week on week throughout the year for routine and special services alike.

Our Good Friday service in 2012 we performed ‘ The Saviour’ by William Lloyd Webber and have extended the choral repertoire during the year. The Advent Sequence which was offered as the Advent Evensong was a moving and meaningful service of meditation and music led by the choir and was well received, followed by the series of carol services for the Guilds, culminating in our own 9 lessons and carols service.

The choir looks forward to another year of music making and to continue support the worship and provide an experience which hopefully will last for a lifetime.

Colin Hicks

ST MARY’S MOTHERS’ UNION REPORT This will be a shorter report as most of what I would have said appeared in the February edition of the Parish magazine. I was delighted to read that Liz had put a response in this month’s magazine As usual I begin with thanks for the support I have had. Susan is a brilliant secretary, booking interesting speakers and putting relevant news on the pew sheet and in the magazine. She and Leonard deserve a special thank you for generously giving up their home and hosting our summer event, giving us a happy and successful day and providing funds for the branch and for St Mary’s.

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Liz Chambers has kindly become treasurer and is working her way through the mysteries of M U accounts, thank you Liz. My thanks also go to Margaret Emmerson and Christine Stedman for their support on the committee.

We have had meetings every month except August and our speakers have included Rev. Antony Kirby on his previous life, Mrs Janet Grayson who has worked in Cambodia, Mrs Joyce Jackson came to give us and our Methodist friends an update on the work we have supported in Kilimatindi. Interspersed with meetings we entertained the MU branch from Lofthouse with Antony and Debbie’s help. We visited East Bridgford where we were warmly welcomed and where they were delighted to see Liz and John (their loss has been our gain!).

We have celebrated Lady Day and Advent with the other branches in the deanery (Catterick and East Cowton) we look forward to continuing meeting and praying with them this year, Unfortunately we have not attended the Diocesan council meetings this year (we don’t do Leeds) but some of us attended the Summer celebration in Ripon and were privileged to hear Reg Bailey and Susie Hart. We took our turn in taking the mid-day prayers in the cathedral, a privilege we always enjoy, together with a lovely lunch and some retail therapy in Ripon.

Susan will tell you of next year’s programme which I know we will enjoy.

This will be my last report as branch leader having done four years beyond the six recommended by the Constitution Margaret Clayson Branch Leader 2013-2013

ST MARY’S WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP REPORT There were two significant events during the year which had a marked impact on our members.

Our founder chairman Katherine Carr, who made an outstanding contribution to the fellowship over 40 years, celebrated her 80th birthday which we honoured by arranging a programme of Desert Island Discs based on the outstanding landmarks of Katherine’s life. This was a great success which she thoroughly enjoyed, and then sadly not long after Katherine’s long and eventful life drew to a close with her sudden death, and of course she is sadly missed.

We have once more enjoyed a rich variety of speakers and in keeping with our affiliation to St Mary’s we held our Annual Easter service and the traditional Carol Service which we invited the residents of Ryder’s Court to join us.

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We continue to be a happy, relaxed and caring group who enjoy good fellowship together which culminates in our annual Christmas party. We welcomed three new members this year.

We meet at 2pm at Ryder’s Court on the 3 rd Wednesday of every month excluding July and August. We are always pleased to welcome new friends and visitors.

Eileen Simms Convenor

STUDY GROUPS’ REPORTS The Wednesday Study Group

Another year of Bible study! The ‘Wednesday Group’ has coped with a variety of changes this year. We have looked at the Gospel of Matthew, then Ephesians, then the Lent study course. We have sometimes met on Wednesday but at other times we have had periods meeting on Tuesdays or Thursdays! And the group was deliberately mixed up as part of the arrangements for the Lent Study Course held in different groups around the town.

The Gospel of Matthew was a long undertaking but it was good to read through another one of the gospels. This one is the most Jewish in perspective and contains comparisons between the saving work of the leading figures in the Old Testament and Jesus in the New. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is a short tidal wave of appreciation for the gifts God has lavished upon us, coupled with a section on how we should conduct ourselves in response.

We will finish the summer term by a return to the Old Testament – possibly to have a look at the early chapters of Genesis.

Scott Lunn The Ecumenical Lent Study Course

An area of prayer and reflection for both the church and individual Christians is ‘Vocation’. We have a Sunday dedicated to this (‘Vocations Sunday’). It is not untypical to have a sermon which refers to vocations to Christian leadership. There have also been, from time-to-time, ‘Vocations Roadshows’ which invite Christians to consider the wider range of roles commonly associated with Vocation.

This year we chose to look at a study course, throughout Lent, that discussed the idea of vocation as being something that applies to all Christians throughout their lives (‘Life Calling’, Robert Warren, Kate Bruce). We are, each of us, called by God. We are equipped,

by God, with the gifts to fulfill this calling. We are called out of unholy living. We are to live out our calling in the world at large.

We are to respond to the call of God that may take us on new directions throughout our lives.

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There were four different groups that met at different times around the town and these comprised of members from the churches around town. We are very much in debt to those involved in the leadership of these groups: Joan Plowman, Keith Bamford, Jennifer Patrick, Sheila Harrisson, and Antony Kirby.

Scott Lunn

Thursday Study Group This informal, friendly group has met for several years to discuss a wide range of topics and issues, always reflecting on their relevance for Christian living in today’s world. Subjects studied this year have included the Ten Commandments and, from Kenneth E Bailey’s book, Jesus through Middle Eastern Eyes, discussions about the Parables and Women in the early church.. New members are always welcome.

Sheila Harrisson

TREASURER’S REPORT Report to be tabled at the Annual Meeting

UPBEAT ORCHESTRA AND ANACRUCIS REPORT The Upbeat Orchestra and Anacrusis Choir continue to lead the musical content of the All Age Worship services, which are usually on the third Sunday of each month. In addition, the Christingle and Crib services are highlights of the Advent and Christmas season, along with an annual Carol singing expedition around the town. We rehearse on the Friday evening immediately prior to the service, and several times a year follow this with a social event. These have included pizza parties, fish and chips and games on The Batts, BBQs and meals out in local restaurants.

Summer 2013 will sadly see a big change in the Upbeat orchestra demographic as we expect three or four of our young people to move on to University. They are all really experienced players so the sound will change too. We are actively recruiting new players so please do encourage any players you know to get in touch if they would like to find out more about the orchestra.

We currently have 50 names in our combined registers, seventeen of whom are under 18. Naturally some of our youngsters move on to other things including one who has gone to University this year. One of our adult players has also left the area. We are delighted to see them returning though especially at the Crib Service, and in the holidays. Our new members this year include a few new singers in the choir and another adult instrumentalist.

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We continue to take up a lot of space in church, the “Upbeat” corner and three pews down the South Aisle too. It remains a cramped and cold area for so many to rehearse and then sing or play for the service, but there is a lot of good will in coping with the physical problems. We hope to improve this area over the next year or so.

I am very grateful for the support of so many people both in the musical congregation and clergy. In particular I would like to thank Brett Overin excellent piano accompaniment of both ensembles, and Allan Guy for his conductor services from time to time. Their musicianship and commitment is asset to these groups.

groups, for his deputy a great

The strength of the Family Service/ All Age Worship seems to be that it attracts such a wide variety of individuals of different ages and different musical experiences to contribute to our worship in such a worthwhile and uplifting way.

If you would like more information about what we do, or would like to join us, do ask. We are always pleased to have new members.

Carol Gedye Musical Director

CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE’S COMMITTEE REPORT This group of people meets three times a year and is comprised of representatives from each of the organisations within the church that have a significant number of children or young people as participants. These are the Bell Ringers, Anacrucis and Upbeat, the Choir, and Fun-Key worship. Scott Lunn represents the Lay Readers, Phil Pearson has a role as Safeguarding Coordinator and of course, John Chambers represents the clergy.

The main concern of this committee is that we provide a safe place for the children and young people who come to worship at church or who participate in activities run by groups connected to the church. This includes keeping up to date with CRB checks and ensuring that we comply with the Diocesan Child Protection Policy. We also have an interest in the upkeep of the fabric of the church and any proposed changes as it relates to providing an appropriate and safe space for children who join us in the services.

The recent development of the Fun-Key services has provided a new worship format for younger children and their families and seems to be bringing families along to the All Age worship services too.

In addition to church-based activities, we discuss the current relationships with our partner schools in the area e.g. John’s regular ‘Holy Hover’ in Richmond CofE Primary and his involvement in the new pupil-led services in St Francis Xavier.

We are all aware that our church is ‘ageing’ and that the future rests with the younger generations, so we are doing our best to engage all age groups in the full extent of church life.

Jane Callard Chair 19

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SHHHH! PLEASE CAN YOU HELP? The crèche area is very well used during baptism services and could do with stocking up with some soft toys/quiet games that children can play with during the service. If you have any please leave them in the crèche area. Thank you!

On March 26th it was lovely to welcome eighteen members and friends to our meeting.

Following our opening service we

welcomed Rev. Antony Kirby as our speaker.

Antony told us all about his bee keeping and it was fascinating we learnt about the queen and the workers, the males who once mated are killed off!!! the different types of honey and the problems with oil seed rape (the pollen from the rape is very coarse and the honey sets hard so the hives have to be emptied more frequently).

Antony showed us a skep that he had made [a basket to catch a swarm] this is made from dried grass and woven and stitched with the split fibres from a bramble runner, as you can imagine there was much laughter and many questions and Antony was warmly thanked for a most interesting and enjoyable afternoon.

Christine presented a bouquet of flowers to Margaret Clayson who had stepped down as Branch Leader after ten years. We then all enjoyed tea and biscuits.

There will be no meeting in May as it falls on Bank Holiday, however, our next meeting will be on June 25th at 2pm in Greyfriars when Jan Gracey will give us an update on her work with children in Cambodia. Jan spends six months living in Cambodia and six months visiting family and friends and fund raising in England. Jan`s sister will be known to many of you Melva Steckles.

Susan Scrafton

“WHEN WAS EVER HONEY MADE WITH ONE BEE IN A HIVE?” THOMAS HOOD 21

We are busy little bees! Where shall I start....?

Well, March began with some new faces in school. Mrs Gleave, Mrs Greenhalgh and Miss Lowe joined us as Teaching Assistants. They have already thrown themselves into school life and are real assets to our team. It’s really great to have them with us.

When I last wrote, I foolishly thought that the worst of winter might be over, but snow and very cold weather did try its best to hamper us this term too. However, snowy pavements made trips to the library a no-go for our young children in FS2. Never mind – we are re-booking for later in the year when the snow really has gone!

March has started to become a Mad Month of Reading at Richmond CE and this year we celebrated by receiving our book tokens, having a prize draw for reading everyday as well as a book swap – very popular.

Collective Worship is a very important element of our school life and it is something which we are always looking to develop. This month the staff and some governors took part in a Worship-Workshop led by the people from the Well, an organisation near Malton. We really enjoyed the theme of “Holy Moments and Sacred Spaces” and were challenged to reflect on our Collective Worship practice. It was a very uplifting and inspiring experience.

As well as working hard during the school day, our children like to have fun after school too and that was obvious at our Comic Relief Disco. The cancellation of the Valentine’s disco (because of snow!) was made up for with this event and it was great to see so many children having a good time and raising money too. Later in the week they joined in the fun with the whole country – dressing up in red and making more donations.

This term has been another successful one in terms of sport. We finished second in the years 3 and 4 boys football tournament at Brompton on Swale and third in the KS2 girls equivalent at Bolton on Swale. The school also had two first place runners in the annual cross country tournament at Catterick! The school has also benefited from the generosity of local sports business whose coaches volunteered their time to the children. Premier Sports delivered a health and activity day to the children where they learned skills in sports such as basketball, fencing and handball. Richmondshire Golf Club also delivered a taster session to our Year 5s who fully enjoyed the experience. In fact, 7 of our children have already signed up for lessons!

While Mr McCulloch organises the sport, Mrs Foxwell keeps us on our toes musically speaking. This year she took the Hand Chime Group and the Singing Group to take part in the Wensleydale Tournament of Song.

Again our children did us proud and worked hard to compete against many other schools in the area.

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Some more staffing news came in the middle of the month when we celebrated another member of our Midday Supervisory Staff having worked with us for 40 years!

Quite an achievement, I’m sure you’ll agree. On the last day of term we said another sad goodbye as Mrs White, also an Assistant Head Teacher with us, left to scale the heady heights (excuse the pun) of Headship as she becomes Head Teacher of Moorside Junior School in Ripon. We are all very proud of what she has achieved but will miss her hard work and her sense of fun.

March and the spring term ended with two traditional events planned – the Easter Egg Hunt and the Church service. The Friends of Richmond Church of England School organise the hunt each year. Unfortunately this year the hunt had to become a “hand out” as the snowy and wet weather made the idea of an outdoors hunt a little impractical. The eggs tasted just as good though! The Easter service tends to be at a more measured pace! However, it is certainly one of the most meaningful events for me in school as we arrive in church to see our prayers transforming the bare cross with flowers. After a very busy term, we kept the service very simple this year with its message of the hope of new life after a long winter.

With good wishes from us all at Richmond Church of England Primary School.

Alexa Barber

The puppies A client brought a litter of Golden Retriever puppies to the local veterinary clinic for inoculations and worming. As the look-alike pups tumbled over and under one another in their box, the experienced vet realized it would be difficult to tell which had been treated and which hadn't. So the vet turned on the water tap, wet her fingers and gently moistened each dog's head as she finished giving it the necessary shots.

After the fourth puppy, the vet noticed her hitherto talkative client had grown silent and was looking rather reverent. As the animal doctor sprinkled the last pup's head, the owner leaned forward and whispered, "Thank you so much. I hadn’t realised you baptised them, too.”

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A youth event for young people aged 11-16 on SATURDAY 11TH MAY 2013 AT LIGHTWATER VALLEY with special guests Twelve 24 and glactus Jack.

Entry to Lightwater Valley from 3pm but exclusive use from 4.40pm followed by an open air concert. The event will finish at 9.30pm. All young people need to be accompanied in to the venue by a group leader. Tickets are ÂŁ13 before 1st May and ÂŁ16 on the gate. This is a joint Church of England/Urban Saints venture and has proved hugely popular in previous years.

If you wish to attend, please see Scott Lunn and also check thebignightout.org.uk

Fun-Key church is looking for some musical instruments to use occasionally during the service. Do you have any you no longer wish? If so, please contact Gillian on 07592016476 24

HUDSWELL DOES FUN-KEY Met at the Village Hall at 3pm on the 14th April when our theme of the day followed the lectionary and we explored “Recognising Jesus”.

We held a very informal service of worship during which we sang hymns, read readings, we made decorative fish with lots of circles, we went fishing out of a small boat, we continued our Hudswell FunKey stained glass window and even retold (while sitting in a boat) the story of Jesus reappearing to the disciples when they were out on a fishing boat and when he told them to try the other side of the boat as there would be more fish there.

We enjoyed refreshments through out and ate white chocolate fish.

The next Hudswell does Fun-Key is on Sunday 12th May when we look forward to exploring what Pentecost is with our newly gathered Hudswell Fun-Key families.

Please see BLOG http://hudswellitdoesfunkeychurch.wordpress.com/ or chat to Gillian on 07592016476, Claire or Rev’d Antony for more details.

FUN-KEY CHURCH @ ST MARY’S RICHMOND

By the time you read this we will just have held our service at 4pm on Sunday 28th April, when our theme of the day was to be “Love and Grace” and when we also celebrated and thanked God amazing 1st Year. Happy Birthday Fun-Key Church @ St Mary’s!

On Sunday 31st March we celebrated Easter in a hugely joyful service. We were delighted to welcome many new faces to our service, during which not only did we sing happy hymns, and learned that to reach our potential we have to crack open our shell and trust God to release new life, but we had a giant egg hunt, we pinned prayers to what was the school and church Christmas tree and was now the Easter cross, we made a cross with our hands on it, we planted cress seeds in broken egg shells, and we also learned a new song with Rev’d John (which was great fun and involved a good bit of laughter!). We also enjoyed refreshments set up by our Mothers Union ladies in the Tower Café.

Fun-Key Church is a very relaxed and informal service, where everyone, whether young or old, on own or with a brood, used to church or never been to church, can come along and take part in the things they feel happy doing and also just sit and be calm and quiet and enjoy the atmosphere with a coffee.

It really is fun, faith and fellowship for all ages.

For up to date with news, thoughts, plans, and photographs of all things Fun-Key, have a look at our blog http://funkeychurchatstmarysrichmond.wordpress.com/ , find us on Facebook or tweet @fun_keychurch. Gillian 07592016476 None of this would be possible without the enthusiasm and time of our Fun-Key volunteers, so THANK YOU! Helpers always welcome!

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THE KNITTED BIBLE EXHIBITION IS NEXT MONTH!!!!

Between Thursday 27th and Sunday 30th June 2013, we will be welcoming an exhibition to St Mary's Church Richmond entitled "The Knitted Bible", in which 33 different stories from the bible are to be portrayed in wool (eg Noah's Ark, The Easter Story etc.). The exhibition comes complete, knitted originally by the very talented team of knitters at St George’s URC in Hartlepool, who not content with knitting the Christmas or Easter story, knitted The Bible!

Part of our project of bringing the Exhibition to Richmond is that people within the community take part in knitting squares that can be sewn together to make blankets for babies and children within our community who require something warm, something lovely and something a little special all of their own. “Handmade

by St Mary’s Church” sew in labels are made, just waiting to be attached to the blankets. They look really special.

We have already received a good number of squares but could do with lots more so - if you would like to knit a square, Claire Murray our “knitter extraordinaire” and “blanket-making co-ordinator” has 2 patterns - but the main thing is if the squares can be 16 cm square when finished.

Pattern 1 - normal square - on a size 3.5 needle you need 40 stitches and on a size 4 needle that is 32 stitches.

Pattern 2 - diagonal square - cast on 2 stitches. Knit into the front, and the back, of the first stitch in every row, until the sides of your knitting are 16 cm long. Then you start to decrease by knitting the first stitch, then knitting the next 2 stitches together on every row until only 2 stitches remain. Then Loop the first of the 2 stitches over the other remaining one, break off the yarn and thread the yarn through the last stitch, pulling tight to bind off.

Gently Pull the square into shape. You have one finished square. (then you start your next one) If you can’t or don’t knit any more if you have spare wool or needles you don’t wish please speak to one of the team and we will joyously come and collect them from you! Thank you so much to those who have already donated—much appreciated.

There will shortly be a Rota List at the back of church and further information for people to sign up to be welcomers, Café people and knitters (or people) in residence.

We would really value your practical and prayerful support.

With very best wishes from Julia Mole, Claire Murray, Gillian Lunn and Antony Kirby

“Knitting is pure potential. Every ball or skein of yarn holds something inside it, and the great mystery of what that might be can be almost spiritual” Stephanie Pearl-McPhee 26

NO NEPAL VISIT THIS YEAR? We usually try to contribute an article based on our month in Nepal each year. But nothing is set in stone and this year we are not going. So here is an explanation.

For the last 8 years, the main agenda has been for me to teach in the Medical School at Kathmandu University (which perversely is not in Kathmandu!) I have tried to fill any needs they may have, and the main one for 5-6 years has been to teach the course in Medical Genetics.

Now however the curriculum has been re-organised, not only for our medical school but also for a number of ‘affiliated’ medical schools, most of which have not had a ‘specialist’ genetics teacher. The result has been to divide the teaching among different departments and to do the course at a different time of year. So last year I discovered that the students I would have taught this year had already done the course. When I pointed this out, I was told “But you can come and teach it anyway!” This didn’t seem to us valid as a main reason for going, so we decided after much prayer not to go. Of course, we do other things, including Angela’s English teaching and our involvement with the churches and hospital Christian Fellowship, but we had to balance the total value of these against the (considerable) expense. As for next year, literally the Lord only knows.

We had something of a disappointment, which we’ll share with you, though it had nothing to do with the decision not to go. Deborah, the Pastor’s daughter in Dhulikhel (which is where the KU medical school actually is), had long wanted to train as a nurse. For two years, she applied and was not accepted for a place. Last summer, however, after initial rejection, she was offered a place when someone else withdrew.

Through our connection with the Nursing School (through Angela) and our connection with St Aidan’s Church on Catterick Garrison, we were able to mediate a generous gift at very short notice to cover her fees for the first year. Needless to say, it felt good and right to be able to do this, but the golden glow faded after a few weeks when we heard that she was not coping with the course and that she then dropped out. St Aidan’s were very good about it (they won’t get the money back), but it was a puzzle to make sense of what happened spiritually.

Sometimes it’s hard to understand what God is doing, but the important thing is that it is God who is doing it! We need to swallow our disappointment- and embarrassmentand pray for Deborah that she will be able to put her life together and find the true vocation that we at St Mary’s were studying during Lent.

John Dickinson

“Many people mistake our work for our vocation.

Our vocation is the love of Jesus” Mother Teresa 27

FROM THE REGISTERS We pray for those baptised in April 2013 7th April 2013

Chloe Devlin

14th April 2013

Emily Ann Hall (at Hudswell) Joseph John Hall (at Hudswell) Joshua Donald Hall (at Hudswell)

We pray for those newly joined together in marriage 13th April 2013

James McCarthy and Emma-Louise Chambers Sadly we have laid to rest

28th March 2013

Yvonne Caygill Aged 65

2nd April 2013

Myra Hazel Davies Aged 95

2nd April 2013

James Henry Taylor Brown Aged 89

4th April 2013

Sian Marks Aged 19

15th April 2013

Annie Guy Aged 79 May they rest in peace and rise in glory

ST MARY’S PARISH CHURCH PASTORAL CARE TRANSPORT ASSISTANCE Transport to and from Church (C), Hospital (H), Shopping (S) Ruth Brown 26 Whitefields Drive Michael and Margaret Clayson 11 Whitefields Gate John Dickinson 5 West End Avenue Joy and Don Hornsby 2 Olliver Road Rosemary Oliver 3 Stanley Grove Edna Roberts 70 Ronaldshay Drive Eileen Simms 56 Ronaldshay Drive Anne Simpson 56 Gilling Road Pamela Wheatley 32 Whitefields Drive Linda Drury 25 Darlington Road

CHS CH CH CH C C HS CHS CH H

825270 822631 826803 826490 823081 822970 826702 822277 822428 850243

More drivers are always welcome and much appreciated so if you wish to volunteer for this very important service, contact this magazine on 826895.

BOOK OF THE MONTH -

Grace - More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine

by Max Lucado ISBN - 9780849946745 Pub - Thomas Nelson Sept 2012 In this compact and easy to read book, Max Lucado gives you a one volume guide to God’s greatest and best idea – Grace. Max's words burst through to reveal the brightness of God that drives away the misery of self imposed doubt, regret, remorse and unforgiveness - of yourself and others.

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ST MARY’S

RICHMOND

ST MARY’S

SUNDAY 5TH MAY 6TH SUNDAY OF EASTER

8AM 10AM

HOLY COMMUNION CHORAL EUCHARIST

SUNDAY 12TH MAY SUNDAY AFTER ASCENSION

8AM 10AM 6.30PM

HOLY COMMUNION CHORAL EUCHARIST CHORAL EVENSONG

SUNDAY 19TH MAY PENTECOST,

8AM 10AM

HOLY COMMUNION ALL-AGE EUCHARIST

SUNDAY 26TH MAY TRINITY SUNDAY, RICHMOND MEET SERVICE

8AM 10AM 4PM

HOLY COMMUNION CHORAL EUCHARIST FUN-KEY CHURCH

EVERY WEDNESDAY

9.00AM

HOLY COMMUNION

HOLY TRINITY EVERY THURSDAY

10.30AM

ST MICHAEL & ALL ANGELS SUNDAY 12TH MAY ST MICHAEL &ALL ANGELS

HUDSWELL 3PM VILLAGE HALL DOWNHOLME

HOLY COMMUNION

ST MICHAEL &ALL ANGELS HUDSWELL DOES FUN-KEY ST MICHAEL &ALL ANGELS

SUNDAY 12TH MAY

9.30AM

MORNING PRAYER

SUNDAY 26TH MAY

9.30AM

HOLY COMMUNION

ST EDMUND’S

MARSKE

ST EDMUND’S

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

11AM

HOLY COMMUNION

SUNDAY 12TH MAY

11AM

MORNING PRAYER

SUNDAY 19TH MAY

11AM

HOLY COMMUNION

SUNDAY 26TH MAY

11AM

HOLY COMMUNION

DAYDREAMING IS GOOD FOR YOU Daydreaming is not a waste of time; periods of quiet introspection can help boost concentration, memory and moral judgment. This is because inward focus impacts the way we build memories, make meaning and transfer that learning into new contexts. Research at the University of California has found that periods of quiet reflection help us to become more motivated, less anxious, perform better, and plan more effectively. “But our fast paced urban and digital environment could be undermining the chances of reflection.” Psalm 46:10 urges us to slow down, “be still, and know that I am God.”

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ST M ARY'S SIDES PEOPLE 8.00 am 5TH MAY 12TH MAY 19TH MAY 26TH MAY

M CLAYSON J BATY E/R BASSINDALE D ROBERTSON

2ND JUNE ACOLYTES 5TH MAY 12TH MAY 19TH MAY 26TH MAY 2ND JUNE

M TOOZE TEAM D A B C

SIDES PEOPLE 10.00 am J&R MOREL, P WHEATLEY, L COPELAND J&A ROBERTS, D&J WADE G&M MERLANE, A MCDONALD, A GUY S GUDGEON, J KIRBY, R MACAULAY, K ROBERTS D MINNICAN, R GAZZARD, R&S WALLIS FLOWERS CHURCH CLEANING DEBBIE KIRBY TEAM MAVIS DOZEY MAY MAVIS DOZEY Mrs M. Emmerson JOYCE KIRBY Mrs M Clayson JOYCE KIRBY Mr D Frankton

COFFEE ROTA 5TH MAY J STEELE, B RIDLEY, E CHAMBERS 12TH MAY E ROBERTS, J KIRBY, O HARRISON 19TH MAY L COPELAND, J SMITH, P CROFT, J EMMERSON 26TH MAY R BROWN, P WHEATLEY, J BROWN 2ND JUNE B BEATHAM, A MCDONALD, C STEDMAN, A BACON, M TURNBULL

The deadline for the JUNE 2013 issue is MONDAY 6TH MAY Please forward any contributions to Gillian by hand or by email gillian.lunn@yahoo.com

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200 CLUB WINNER March 2013 No:142 Freda and Tony Dykes