The community came together across generations, with both young and old standing side by side to pay their respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. There were over 130 young people at the service and Revd Kyla’s address was a rally for hope and peace for the future generations.During the service in St. Faith’s Church Gaywood LEP, Councillor Alex Ware gave a moving reading of the iconic poem, In Flanders Fields.Following the service, the congregation formed a parade, and in a powerful symbol of community unity marched together with clergy and members of Holy Family RC Church to the Clock Memorial in Gaywood for an ecumenical Act of Remembrance. The crowd fell silent as Mariegold Nichols beautifully played the Last Post, signalling the start of a poignant two-minute silence.Wreaths were then solemnly laid at the foot of the memorial. Tributes were placed by representatives from the Royal British Legion, local councillors, community groups, uniformed organisations, local schools, and funeral directors, bringing a deeply respectful community event to a close.
Bellringing is often called a hidden art—carried out by dedicated teams tucked away in stone towers, high above the pews. Last Sunday, one of our youngest local residents stepped out of the practice room and into the history books of St. Faith’s Church Gaywood LEP.At just 14 years old, Ethan successfully completed his first Sunday service ringing, a major milestone in a ringer's journey.While it looks effortless from the outside, bellringing is a demanding blend of memory, mathematics, and muscle control. For Ethan, like all new ringers, the journey started with silence—learning the ropes, understanding the mechanics, and practising on muffled bells. On Sunday, the muffles came off.The sound of Ethan's bell joining the Sunday morning chorus was a beautiful reminder that old traditions can find vibrant new life. We look forward to hearing Ethan in the tower for many years to come.
Residents across the Fairstead and King’s Reach estates experienced a heavenly surprise this Halloween as volunteers from St Faith's Church took to the streets dressed as angels to spread joy, handing out glow sticks and lollipops to local children and families.The initiative aimed to provide a bright, welcoming presence during the busy trick-or-treating evening, offering a fun and safe point of connection for the community. Armed with hundreds of neon glow sticks and sweet treats, the church's "angels" walked the estate, lighting up the dark autumn night and greeting delighted residents of all ages.Organisers from St Faith's noted that the event was all about celebrating community spirit and sharing a little extra light and kindness on a night when families are out exploring their neighborhood. The glowing handouts proved to be a massive hit, ensuring that youngest trick-or-treaters stayed safe, visible, and smiling throughout the evening.
Each week at the Friendship Café we have different activities for guests and volunteers to enjoy together in a safe and relaxed environment. This week we welcomed the popular Easy-Beats Duo Richard and Jim back again, for an afternoon radiating joy, collective warmth, and a lively and friendly atmosphere.We also welcomed our new Community Builder Yanmife - seen here enjoying dancing with guests and volunteers.The music does far more than fill the room—it unlocks a world of shared moments of connection. When a familiar melody plays, faces light up, feet start tapping, and isolation fades away. Dancing provides a beautiful, wordless way for couples, families, and caregivers to share a meaningful moment, proving that while memory may fade, the capacity for joy, rhythm, and love never does.The Friendship Café is for people with Dementia and the carers and is held in Gaywood Church Rooms on Wednesdays 2.30pm-4pm every week year round.Photo with permission.
