Staindrop St Mary's was delighted to host the ceremony this year with six of the candidates coming from Gainford St Mary's - another one of the four parishes under our vicar Eileen's care. The other candidates were from our Deanery and nearly a hundred fellow Christians came to support them. The ages of the candidates ranged from 11years to those in their eighth decade. Bishop Paul spoke of the importance of the cornerstone when building our ancient church and Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith. We are to be 'Living stones' making a Living Church with Christ as our solid foundation. A living Church which can as easily meet in a garden as a church building.
The photo Easter trail had children looking for things in nature linked to the Easter story.In the Scarth hall afterwards the numbers were added to by those already enjoying the teas & biscuits. There were Easter bonnets and decorated eggs to judge.The walk was a wonderful opportunity for gentle conversation or quiet contemplation surrounded by God's creations.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONFIRM YOUR FAITH? At a Confirmation Service, we come together to encourage and witness youth and adults confirm the promises that were made when they were baptized. Those promises may have been made on their behalf by their parents and godparents. Are you baptised and feel ready to affirm promises for yourself and confirm your faith in Jesus Christ? At the Confirmation Service, you speak these promises for yourself. We hope to welcome friends and family who join members of the church, and they promise to support and pray for you. If you have not been baptised, we are delighted that you can be baptised and then confirmed at the same service. We also welcome members of families to be baptised and confirmed together! This year, we are delighted that The Bishop of Durham, The Rt Rev’d Paul Butler, will be conducting confirmations at one of our churches, St Mary’s Church, Staindrop on Thursday 11th May 2023 at 7pm. The parishes of Barnard Castle and Whorlton, Upper Teesdale, and the Gaunless Valley as well as our 4 parishes of Winston, Gainford, Ingleton, and Staindrop will be represented at the service. Is this exciting opportunity for you? Would you like more information? Do get in touch with me, or Claire Mead our Missioner for Children, Young People and Families, or with our churchwardens at our churches, or your headteachers. So that we have time to prepare you for this special occasion, please get in touch by Mothering Sunday 19th March 2023. I look forward to hearing from you. Rev’d Canon Eileen Harrop
For folk who love traditional Evensong the visit of the Cathedral choir to our deanery is not to be missed. The choir, as part of the Cathedral's outreach programme, will sing Evensong at 3.30pm on Sunday 29th January at St. Paul's church, Evenwood. It would be great to have a good congregation both to encourage the Cathedral as they begin this new venture and to show support for one of our Deanery churches. All are welcome. Donations appreciated.
