Churchwardens’ Report

November 2008

We welcome Mark back from Sierra Leone for the second time in a month. Mark had an unexpected return trip in place of Bishop Lindsay, who had to cancel due to unforseen circumstances. Mark went to represent the diocese of Chichester at the consecration of the new Bishop of Bo. We were delighted that Bishop Lindsay agreed to take our Sunday service on 26th October. This gave us an excellent opportunity to thank him for all the help he has given to us and to the school and to wish him well for the future.

We held our Harvest Supper on Saturday 4th October at Heather Place by kind invitation of Clive and Sue Welland to whom we owe a big “Thank you” for their hospitality. It was a great occasion much enjoyed by all those present. Harvest Festival followed on Sunday with an All Age service in a splendidly decorated church — again our thanks to Dianne Elliott, Tracy and all the helpers who made this possible. All the proceeds from these events went towards the Diocesan Harvest Appeal and the groceries collected were taken to Knowles Tooth Children’s Centre to help families who are in real need.

On Sunday 5th October the Archbishop of Canterbury preached at Chichester Cathedral as part of that weekend’s festivities commemorating the 900th annniversary of the Cathedral (1108-2008). This was part of the year long celebrations which will culminate in a Son et Lumière in November.

St. Augustine’s Primary School is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year and a service of commemoration was held in the Church (where the school began) on 10th October, conducted by Mark and attended by staff, pupils and friends, after which everybody adjourned to the School for refreshments and bonhomie.

The second Kairos evening service in the current series was held on Sunday 12th October when Mark spoke to us about “A woman’s place?”, and helped us unpack what the Bible teaches about the role of women and how this appplies to church leadership today. This was very informative, followed by lively discussion in small groups, and for all present provided an insight into the controversy over women’s ministry in the church today, and the opportuunity to discuss the issues in a relaxed atmosphere. The next Kairos is on 9th November when Mary Jane Burkett from Brighton Voices in Exile will speak about her charity which supports asylum seekers and refugees, this is happening on our doorstep and we should be informed; please come, you will not be disappointed.

The women’s breakfast meeting at the Café Rouge was well attended. Bridget Plass gave an inspiring talk. At the Riverside Fellowship, Sue Stephens gave us much to think about as she talked about her work in a prison healthcare centre.

Everyone is invited to a special guest service on Sunday 23rd November. Do invite a friend, neighbour, member of your family to come with you.

There will be an Advent evening service on 30th November. This will be a reflective and quiet candlelight service. All welcome.

Alan and Sue

Churchwardens

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