This year we have supported the Bishop’s Harvest Appeal and also the mission and outreach for our church in out community. Thank you to the Deanery choir for the most beautiful singing at our special Evensong, which Bishop Joe attended and preached for us. The Harvest celebrations are the start of a year of events to celebrate 150 years anniversary of the church in Higham. Please read the message below from Revd. Richard Adams, retired vicar of this parish… "St John's has been a base for Christian witness in Higham for 150 years, having strong times and weak times but, at its best, feeling like a large family which is always willing to adopt new members. It has flourished and been a sign of love and hope when people's gifts and skills have been encouraged, and it's not done so well when those gifts have been ignored. I loved being part of the St John's family for 10 years and continue in retirement to value friendships I still have with members. I was very honoured to have been the first Vicar of Higham as an independent parish, and that independence has been one of the factors in its continued growth and flourishing. I'm thankful to God for all of you, the ones I know and the ones I don't. Prayers and good wishes for the years ahead."Please click the link to see some pictures from our Sunday morning service, when the Choir from St John’s school joined us and sang.It was a busy service, with lots to thank God for!An RSCM medal was presented to Brian Sutcliffe for 40 years as a chorister; Robert Fergusson was presented with a gift in recognition of his 30 years as organist and choirmaster; his sister Anne was presented with a gift as she was instrumental in starting the choir. John Shaw also received his Authorised Lay Ministry certificate as an Ambassador for Eco church.
We heard the story of William Pickles Hartley, committed Christian (Primitive Methodist) who founded the Jam company and did so much for the communities in our area and beyond. Scones with jam (Hartley’s!) and cream were enjoyed by all.
Nick is currently Assistant Curate in the Benefice of Pannal with Beckwithshaw in Leeds Diocese. Please do be praying for Nick and his wife Joy (pictured) as they prepare to move house and as Nick prepares to take up his new post. Nick will be instituted and inducted into his new role on Sunday 8th December 2024 at 6pm, the location of the service will be confirmed in due course. Here is a short clip from Nick and Joy… https://1drv.ms/v/c/10d313ad0e75320d/EYx2Jl7AUM9LqLS_OM8IXzIBAG- PaofuaP3PBLVyPdEHgg
