St Andrew's, Dearnley and Smithy Bridge

St Andrew's, Dearnley and Smithy Bridge

Dennis Knight has taken over from Stuart Carmichael as the organiser of the Christian Aid campaign at St Andrew's, the parish church of Dearnley and Smithy Bridge.

Christian Aid Week this year starts on May 13 and Dennis is anxious to establish a team of willing volunteers to both distribute and then collect envelopes in various parts of the parish.

He said: "Distribution will be done during the week starting May 6 and collection during the following week.

"Could those people who kindly assisted last year please let me know as soon as possible if they are willing to do so again. Also, is there anyone else who could spare a little time to help with the campaign?

"This is a vital cause so if you can help with distribution, collection or both please be in touch."

You can see Dennis in Church or ring him on 01706 371393.

On Sunday, May 13, to coincide with the start of Christian Aid Week our preacher at the 10am Sung Eucharist will be Linda Tiongco, a member of the Christian Aid staff.

Two days later, on Tuesday, May 15, at noon, the Dearnley graveyard extension will be consecrated with a short service of blessing and dedication by the Rt Revd Mark Davies, Bishop of Middleton.

Also present will be the Diocesan Registrar Mrs Jane Monks.

Everyone will be welcome to attend the consecration, after which a light buffet lunch will be provided in Church.

On Thursday of the same week, May 17, St Andrew's will be involved in an Ascension Day United Eucharist, with combined choirs, at St Barnabas, Shore, starting at 7pm.

This week we have had meetings of the Teddy Club and the Friendship Club and we have also hosted a meeting of Littleborough Churches Togwether at which one of the main topis up for discussion was CAP (Christians Against Poverty).

Turning to the Queen's Jubilee celebrations, St Andrew's School will hold a Coronation Service on Wednesday, May 30 (10.30am) and on Monday, June 4 we will join in the celebrations with a Jubilee Bonfire at the back of Church where a large area of ground has been cleared in recent months.

Black peas and pie will be served and tickets will be on sale in the next couple of weeks.

Tomorrow we have our usual services at 8am and 10am.

The parish rota tomorrow is: lay assistants, J Paterson, B Kelly; readers, J Paterson, C Cook; Intercessions, J Mills; sidespersons, M Howarth, J Townshend; refreshments, Carolyn, Pat, Margaret.