Dyserth Times Issue 128 - Oct-Nov 2023

Horeb United Reformed Church
Eglwys Unedig Diwygiedig Horeb
An update 2023.09

The continuing story of how Horeb has moved 'back towards its 'new normal'.

Yes, I know that much of this doesn't change BUT if this is needed to let it be known that we're still alive and kicking - then so be it - and it applies to all of you out there not just to Horeb members.

Son of Food Co-op - Well, as I have reported since the very start of this venture, the 'Usual Suspects' continue to turn up - so we must be doing something right.
BUT - as I have written repeatedly, a reminder to all readers; this is not in any way a 'closed shop' - it is open to all on Wednesdays (10.00 to 12.00.) Tea / coffee / biscuits / cakes (occasionally) are provided; the cost being covered by your donation. A relaxing time in good company with tea/coffee made to order and if it doesn't suit - we'll show you where the Lincat and kettle are… … and you can make your own.

Community Lunches - still up and running and the cooker is still behaving well (again our thanks to the Community Council. for their help and patience. Please remember this is a Community Event - all are welcome; and offers of help or any suggestions of changes particularly if they lead to improvements will be very gratefully received.

One of the differences since pre-Covid days, is the number of folk actively involved in helping; this has hit quite hard this month when four of our regulars are away on Holiday at the same time.

Never fear, there will be a lunch, but it would have involved a lot less stress if the list of volunteers was two / three greater. If you would be happy to be involved, please speak to Pauline Wilson or any if the Horeb Elders.

Dave Wilson's Flower Stall – is still here, and as usual it's well worth a visit
Dave's Flower Stall, which he has run throughout the Summer months for a number of years has been open again for business the year - Proceeds to Horeb Church funds

Obviously, such an endeavour depends largely on things beyond the gardener’s skill / control and unfortunately the weather at key times during the earlier months of this year left much to be desired, and as a result this year’s outcome was somewhat below the exceptional result last year.

Well, the season is ending, so, if you don’t want to miss out, find your way to Glanrafon – (1st on the right) down Pandy Lane and take a look. Many of Dave's plants are not at all 'ordinary' so take plenty of cash or a cheque book and be prepared to be carrying more than you came with on the way home.

... and I almost forgot Well done Dave and thanks from Horeb.

So, what is back to Normal Thankfully, life at Horeb is returning to near normal so to repeat -

• Services every week [Sundays (10.30 to 11.30)] and enjoy social time with tea/ coffee and biscuits afterwards.

• Service is available 'live' to all on Zoom on a Sunday morning and available on Facebook from Sunday afternoon. DETAILS:

Zoom (meeting id 923 732 5176 password 3fHEG9)

Facebook (Horeb United Reformed Church Zoom Services, Dyserth) at any time

We are continuing, for our members who are still unable to attend for Sunday Worship or manage Zoom, to send CONTACT by e-mail. Issued every week, this is a brief Service in print produced by Rev. Colin Richards whose 'thoughts' are well worth a read. Colin, despite his deteriorating eyesight has just sent his latest contribution to me for forwarding to the CONTACT group and it's worth recording that this is Number 119.

In addition to CONTACT; recipients are kept up to date by a copy of the notices which are later read out at the start of the Service on Sunday Morning. If anyone reading this update would like to receive CONTACT and the Notices (including any of the back numbers) e-mail me on allandavidmorgan@gmail.com. … Colin’s thoughts are always worth reading and if, once you have tried this and need more – I have lots of back numbers.

Ongoing 'still missing'

The Village quiz. This remains near the top of my list, but, having been a little poorly recently and been left with vision problems which make reading (and using a computer) a little difficult - it has of necessity been demoted to just below keeping my grass cut to a reasonable level. My apologies - it will happen - not just yet.

Ongoing issues

Building Maintenance
Minor damage to some interior walls and paintwork
Work on several areas within Horeb should start within a few weeks.

Finances - (always on the back of our minds)

The Hiring of Paterson Hall and other space in Horeb

This is a major source of income which, although there has been an upsurge in recent weeks, has still to return to a pre-Covid level – and with the increase in fuel costs it is increasingly difficult to balance what hirers can afford to pay and what we need to charge to cover our costs - let alone gain some 'income'.

BUT - if anyone needs to hire some space for a club or event The Paterson Hall is still available for Hiring for several hours during the week. Indeed, if anyone reading has a need or knows anyone who wishes to Hire a space, they should contact Barbara Tebbutt on 01745 570793 or me on 01745 570364.

Aware that we, in many ways, are battling for the survival of Horeb, the Elders and Members, remain determined to continue to work hard and to do our best to keep Horeb Chapel alive and well.

Finally, as usual, you know where we are, you know we will be open for worship at 10.30 a.m. every Sunday.

So, I'll sign off wishing all the best as we enjoy what is left of the warm dry spell and, if you are thinking about joining us for worship one Sunday, you will be very welcome.

Allan Morgan (Horeb Elder)