Sacristans and Servers

AT THE PARISH CHURCH

We have had a good year.   Server numbers have remained constant, although we would always welcome new members.

The Sacristy has been busy, especially as Irene as been ill and unable to assist.   Bill and Sharon have left:  they helped occasionally with verging.   I should like to thank the others who help in the Sacristy – Dan and Sue, and our Churchwardens, Elizabeth and Martin, who are always there when we need them.

When the work on the pinnacles was complete, we were able to have six open days for the Tower, raising £1,186 – thanks to all who helped.   With some of the money raised, we bought a couple of cassocks and albs and a cord.   We were also able to buy two veil and burse sets for St. Lawrence.

We have been promised a donation from a member of the congregation to allow us to have the best White Comper Chasuble and Cope restored.   They are over a hundred years old and the base silk has yellowed and rotted.   This will be identically replaced and the embroidery re-affixed.   They are both now with Watts of London to be examined and a quote given.

We also had a party in the Autumn for Servers, Clergy and partners, held at the Old Grammar School, and all had a geat time – with marvellous food, thanks to Elizabeth and Michael Gledhill.

I should like to finish with a big Thank You to all the Servers for their loyalty, and say that we are all thinking of and praying for Irene through her long illness, and for Fr. James and family.

AT HOLY TRINITY

At Holy Trinity the teams of Sacristans are Helena and Warwick, Pat and Jim, Hilary and John and Jenny and Terry with Jenny preparing the rota and acting as coordinator.  Each team is on duty every fourth Saturday, firstly locking the Church then preparing the altar, credence table and lectern for Sunday worship, changing the altar frontals with the seasons and putting out the linen, candlesticks, filled wine and water vessels, service books and lectionary.  Back in the Vestry the wafers are counted out, chalices prepared and the Priests vestments laid out.

These are enjoyable tasks undertaken in the peaceful secured Church.  If any other couples would like to join the Sacristans teams please let Jenny and Terry know, training will be given.