01/01/2013

Our annual carol service went off very well on December 9.  Based on the theme “Hope and Renewal”, trustees, friends and supporters gathered on a cold afternoon to sing carols, listen to seasonal Bible readings and hear a moving rendition of ‘Silent Night’ by Josephine Philips.

In a small departure from the usual, a brief retrospective of the life of Lottie Betts-Priddy was read out by Christiana Hyde on behalf of the Trustees instead of an address.  Although this was a late change caused by the bereavement of our scheduled speaker, Margarette Stevens, many old friends appreciated being reminded of Lottie’s humour, commitment and vibrancy, and those who had not known her gained some inkling of why her friends and relatives had felt so compelled to launch a charity in her memory.

The congregation was given an update of our activities during the year.  Most notably the partnership entered into with the REC Primary School in Hamilton Village where we have provided funds for the installation of a water system to promote the health and sanitary arrangements of the school.  Books to help start a library will shortly be on their way.

Father Russell and the church’s deacons and organist provided a warm welcome and we would like to thank Ms Sevia John who was our Grand Chief Receiver.  At the end of the service, the congregation moved to the Church Hall to be warmed up by mulled wine and hot mince pies.

So far we have raised over £300 from the collection and cheques sent in afterwards by individuals who could not attend.  Thank you once more for your support and we look forward to welcoming you again next year.

A final note of appreciation to Tesco, Thornton Heath for a donation of £20 and to Iceland in Norbury for five boxes of mince pies.