Saint Wilfrid’s small but dedicated congregation has been undergoing some soul searching, following on from the decision to invite the Diocese Viability Team in. This was done with the aim to help look at the future of Saint Wilfrid’s. To help choose the right path for the church, both as a building and as a congregation.
This has led to some fresh ideas and initiatives, as well as giving pause to look at what Saint Wilfrid’s does well and should be celebrated.
This month was no exception where we came together on the third Thursday at noon for a charity lunch of home-made soup, bread and cheese and pudding. This helps to raise money for various charities, but also it provides a welcoming space for people to gather, to chat and for friendships to be formed and reaffirmed. We celebrated Father’s Day with a coffee morning, where we enjoyed wonderful home-made cakes.
Joy Tagg has been working with Father Darcy with the aim of bringing more of the Gospel readings into SWISHERS. We are hoping to start with short stories, looking at the life of Jesus and having a short time of prayers afterwards. This new venture has been well received and we pray that this can be built upon, to bring God’s message into the wider community.
Looking forward, there are plans to start a Bingo session (watch this space). We will be encouraging all ages to come to play (especially during the summer months). We hope that this will open up the church to the community and raise the profile of the church within the local community.
On the 4th July we hosted the Mothers’ Union Concert given by local musician Becki Short. She sang songs from the shows, popular classics and lead a 40s sing-along. The money raised will go to help the work of AFIA (Away from it All). Something guaranteed to have had many dancing the night away, or at the least singing along.
Finally it is always important to recognise fellowship and one of the best things about Saint Wilfrid’s is the tight-knit community that exists, through the long-term relationships that have developed over many years. There is a depth of love and support that endures, in times of difficulties; there is a community of support which is bound together within the love of Christ and love of each other.