What a memorable and joyous time we had as we said goodbye to Paul and Lucy.The church was full with friends from the benefice, the Methodist Churches and the local community. Following our Bible Sunday service and Holy Communion which was inspirationally led by Paul, we were tempted by a delicious range of cakes, baked and donated by a number of friends to have with our tea, coffee and prosecco.The presentation ably and expertly compered by Roger Mather, included reflections and reminiscences on behalf of St Helen's Grindleford, St John's Bamford, St Michael & All Angels Hathersage, Christians Together and St Michael's C of E (A) Primary school, reminding us of Paul's ministry and leadership amongst us over the past 5 years.A lovely floral arrangement in a planter was presented to Paul and Lucy, together with a colourful throw designed by a local designer depicting 12 pictures of the Peak District including Hathersage, Bamford and Grindleford. Hopefully the photos below give you some idea, especially the one where Lucy is modelling it for us! Our main gift was a financial gift which we hope Paul and Lucy will use towards furnishing their new home in Sheffield. Thanks to the many generous donations from across the 3 parishes and other friends, a large gift was given which is testament to the high esteem and love in which Paul and Lucy are held.Please continue to pray for Paul and Lucy as they settle into their new home and as they adjust to the next chapter of their lives.
Paul and Lucy's final service will take place on Sunday 26 October, 10am at St Michael & All Angels Church. This will be a service of Holy Communion with light refreshments afterwards, followed by a presentation to Paul and Lucy on behalf of the benefice.There is still time to contribute towards a gift if you would like to, either by cash to Andrew or Janice, or by bank transfer using the following details:Bank: Metro BankAccount name: HATHERSAGE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCILSort code: 23-05-80Account number: 41615419Reference: Paul's giftWe do hope that you will be able to join us as we give thanks for Paul and Lucy's ministry over the past 5 years, and pray God's blessing as they start the next chapter in their lives together
Our quinquennial inspection has identified a number of repairs which need doing, and in particular making the roof safe and watertight. Scaffolding has been erected on the north side rear of the church for the commencement of this work - we ask you to exercise caution when in the vicinity of the fencing and report any concerns you may have. All the work will be carried out externally with no access to the interior required.Scaffolding to the south side/front of the church will be erected at the beginning of July, and it is hoped that this will be removed by the beginning of August, as we are trying to ensure that our wedding couples do not have views of the scaffolding as a background to their photos!This may limit access to the interment plots on the lawned area between the main church door and the vestry door, and should you need to access this area, please contact either Paul or one of the wardens.We have managed to secure a considerable amount of grant funding, and are indebted to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Churches Trust for their generosity.Without them, we would be facing a huge financial outlay, so please spread the word!
