Called to Be a Soldier: Chapter

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STAPLE HILL Platinum Jubilee celebrations began with a full community hall as shoppers and corps members gathered for a coffee morning, which featured Trooping the Colour on a big screen. Many attended for the first time and received details of the programme and forthcoming events. The event raised more than £500 for the Big Collection. – VW BRIDGWATER More than 80 people from the fellowship and the community gathered to celebrate the Jubilee. Children designed flags, decorated crowns and had their photo taken with ‘the Queen’. Everyone enjoyed the buffet, outdoor games, singing and dancing. – HC

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MEETING

EDINBURGH CITY Chick and Major Margaret Yuill led worship on Pentecost Sunday. Chick presented a powerful message based on Acts 2, supported by helpful contributions from the music sections. After a corps fellowship lunch, the visiting leaders gave a multimedia presentation entitled Meet the Master, which included poetry, drama, film clips and songs depicting the life of Christ. – JG

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STAPLE HILL Corps members took part in a Jubilee celebration in a nearby park, converting the Army gazebo into a craft haven for children and a space for conversation. Goody bags were given out, and were so popular that they had to be hurriedly replenished. – VW MEETING

SKEWEN About 40 people attended the Cytûn (Churches Together in Wales) celebration of Pentecost, which took place at T Santes Fair church community centre. Peter Swindale of Skewen Methodist church led the service and gave thoughts on the Scripture reading. The Rev Chris Coles led prayers, John Anthony of Gorffwysfa chapel read Scripture and the band accompanied singing. Jen Holwill of Gorffwysfa chapel made stunning Pentecost flames, providing a focal point for the afternoon. Major Jo and Divisional Envoy Mervyn Walters, who are moving from Skewen to Penarth, were given a fond farewell. – SL KIRKCALDY The corps, along with the Hayfield Community Centre, hosted a weekend of Platinum Jubilee celebrations. These included a street party, cream teas and live music from the Fife Saxophone Group and the corps band. Outdoor activities for children included 1950s games and craft activities in which they made their own crowns. A tuck shop and a vintage jewellery sale added to the fun. The community centre provided free hot food, while the Army’s emergency unit supplied more than 400 free drinks and cakes. Contributions during the weekend raised more than £900 for Army funds. – AM

Staff members and volunteers from Swindon Gorse Hill Corps and charity shop arrange a window display as part of their celebrations of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee