St. Mary's came alive to the sounds of string instruments on Saturday 14th September to a nearly sold out event, skilfully and energetically delivered by four exceptional and world-class musicians. "Astonishing", "the best music I have ever heard played at St. Mary's" " I was transfixed" were some of the comments overheard at the end of the concert. The quartet performed three pieces by Haydn, Mozart and Schubert - all favourite examples. The Haydn was all sunshine, the Mozart more introspective and the Schubert (Death and the Maiden) dramatic. The Carducci performed all three with their trademark joy and subtlety. They held the audience in dramatic suspense until the very end and once released the audience gave rapturous applause, some with standing ovation. We are truly grateful to the Carducci Quartet for playing in aid of St. Marys. To date we estimate that this concert alone has contributed over £4000 to the church and this is likely to be added to through some generous donation and contribution from refreshments and programme sales. This concert would not have been possible without the time, direction and skill of the small organising committee and the army of volunteers on the night. Thank you to all involved and we are seeking able volunteers to help plan the next one for anyone with a passion for event organisation.
Our next Messy Church will be on 13 October from 4pm to 5:30pm in the church. We will base our crafts and activities on a Christian theme and will follow this with a Celebration on the same theme. We will share a drink and a biscuit at the start of the session but there won’t be a cooked meal this month. Messy Church is especially aimed at families but everyone is welcome to come and join in. For more information contact Sarah Bottomley on 01285712074 or stmaryslmt@gmail.com
From Heather GortonEmail address: fairfordpcc@gmail.com or heathergorton31@gmail.com. Telephone: Office: 01285 712611 or home 01285 712428My office hours are 10.00 to 1.00 on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.I am also continuing to work from home so you can contact me at either the office (712611) or home (712428). The office is closed on Mondays and Michelle will be in on Fridays from 10.00 to 12.00. If you are sending in your articles, photos etc. for the bumper copy at the end of the month I will need them by 12 noon on the last Wednesday of the month. For the weekly newsletter I would still like articles in by Wednesday midday
We are delighted to announce that St Mary’s has recently achieved a Silver Award in the A Rocha Eco Church Scheme. This follows on from our Bronze Award in May 2022.The award could not have been achieved without the involvement and encouragement of many people, and we are extremely grateful for everyone’s input, particularly in the churchyard.We shall be having a little break from the scheme now, but will continue with Eco Church activities, as action to prevent Climate Change and biodiversity loss is too important to be put on hold. Janet Edwards
