Many hands make light work of a service and summer lunch 'fit for a king'

debbiethrower0
Jun 30
2 min read

We've been sent a lovely account of the summer's day when Avon Valley Churches held a special service and lunch. The midweek communion service was ideal for those who are unable to get to church regularly, along with their carers. Co-ordinated by two local Anna Chaplains, Mary Melbourne and Julie Francis, the service was laid on for people in the community who are housebound or lonely. A local charity helped bring people to church who might not otherwise be able to get there:

'On the 18th of June Avon Valley Churches’ two Anna Chaplains, Mary Melbourne and Julie Francis held a special communion service for the housebound, lonely and older people at St Mary's Church, Fordingbridge.

The Revd Luke Wickings presided at the service and gave a sermon which reflected upon the gift of prayer that older people are blessed with. Luke said:

“It is a wonderful thing to be able to offer this special midweek service for our older people within our community which shows love and care for people who are often forgotten.”

Stephen Darke played the piano at the service for three well-known hymns and the congregation sang delightfully.

Following the service, a wonderful lunch was provided by Sarah Perrelle and Sue Ledger of Avon Valley Community Matters who worked tirelessly to provide 20 people with a meal fit for a king, followed by fresh strawberries and cream.

Anna Chaplain Mary Melbourne said:

“It was so good to see people who don’t often get to church due to mobility issues come and join us in worship as well as getting together socially for a meal.”

Her chaplaincy colleague Julie Francis added: “We were delighted that the charity eHope were able to bring along local people who are housebound and lonely – to see everybody chatting happily together was pure joy.”

You only have to see the joyful look on everyone’s faces to see that this was indeed an occasion blessed by God. Avon Valley Churches would like to thank all the carers and helpers who were able to bring people into church without whom this service would not have been possible.'