2015 12 01 dec jan 16

The Ismere Messenger The magazine of The Parish of Kidderminster Ismere www.ismere.co.uk www.facebook.com/kidderminsterismere

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016 50p

Kidderminster Ismere Team Ministry Team Rector Revd. Canon Rose Lawley (Day off – Saturday) 186 Birmingham Road, DY10 2SJ email: rosemarylawley@gmail.com Tel: 01562 748274 Team Clergy Revd. Jan Ashton (Day off – Friday) 50 Nursery Grove, Franche, DY11 5BG email: jan@janashton.co.uk

Tel: 01562 741381

Revd. Nigel Taylor (Day off - Monday) 42 Woodlands Road, Cookley, DY10 3TL email: revnrt@icloud.com

Tel: 01562 851744

Revd. Alex Vaccaro (Day off – Monday) 18 Batham Road, DY10 2TN email: alexvaccaro@fsmail.net

Tel: 01562 515894

Readers Sue Bullock 7 Kings Road, DY11 6YU email: suebullock08@gmail.com

Tel: 01562 744250

Ian Strongman 9 Benton Court, DY11 6YY email: ianstrongman@sky.com

Tel: 01562 66267

PARISH OFFICE Arrangements for Baptisms. Marriages, reading Banns, interviews and other enquiries can be made at:St Mary’s Chantry: each Tuesday and Thursday between 6.30 and 7.15pm or contact The Parish Office: St Mary’s Chantry, Churchfields, Kidderminster, DY10 2JN Tuesdays - Fridays 10.00am – 12 noon.

Tel: 01562 751923 or email: office@ismere.co.uk The Ismere Messenger, page 2

Letter from Rose Dear Friends, It’s that time of year again, where has 2015 gone!

December 2015/January 2016

As we begin the new Church year, Advent carols and readings help us to look forward to Christmas when we will celebrate anew the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, when once more we will hear the story, sing carols and come together in worship.

A few weeks ago we were remembering William Temple, Archbishop of Canterbury and Teacher of the Faith, a man of ‘personal integrity’ who ‘openly expressed his difficulties with some aspects of the virgin birth and the bodily resurrection of Christ as they were then understood.’ (Saints on Earth – John H. Darch & Stuart K. Burns) Alex was celebrating at the 8.30 am Communion that morning and afterwards we had a very interesting conversation about worship. What is worship, what does it mean? What are we doing when we worship? Is it just what we do when we come to Church on a Sunday or some other day in the week to hear scripture, to pray, sing hymns and possibly receive the bread, wine and a blessing? Is this all worship is - tied up in neat packages marked liturgy – is this all it is?

After some time Alex read this – Temple’s definition of Christian worship: ‘Worship is the submission of all our nature to God. It is the quickening of conscience by its holiness; the nourishment of mind with his truth; the purifying of imagination by his beauty; the opening of the heart to his love; the surrender of the will to his purpose – and all this gathered up in adoration, the most selfless emotion of which our nature is capable.’

As the shepherds and the wise men came to worship the new child they were ‘gathered up in adoration’. Here we have a glimpse of something that is available to us all; a ‘submission of all our nature to God’ which in return gives us something that is more precious than any gift any wise man could bring.

As we move through the season of Advent and Christmas towards another New Year, I wonder what if any difference it will make to our ‘Christian worship’ our Christian life?

Over the last few years we, as God’s family across the now seven churches in the Kidderminster Ismere Parish have had to face many challenges and changes, and continue to do so, but this can be a positive time as we continue to evolve and grow, particularly if we agree with Temple’s definition of Christian worship – the The Ismere Messenger, page 3

‘submission of all our nature to God’ then we just might find that whatever comes our way in this New Year, will become easier knowing we will not be facing it on our own.

I pray for us all as we move on into the New Year of 2016, that it will bring within it a new awareness of God in all our lives.

Rose

The Revd Canon Rose Lawley Team Rector

Letter from Archdeacon Nikki There was no-room for the refugee family. Everywhere was full to overflowing. The last inn they tried was packed, so they had to make do with a shed, camping out, making a home as best they could, finding somewhere dry at least, so the baby could be born under the shelter of a barn roof.

No room for the refugees. It’s been an ongoing theme of our news cycle this year as the plight of families fleeing Syria has worsened. We have witnessed millions of people fleeing war and violence in what has become one of the largest refugee crises ever recorded. And it has been the pictures of child refugees which have most impacted us.

Jesus, as a child, was a refugee, unwelcome and homeless. No wonder then that as he grew up and began his earthly ministry, he called outcasts friends, invited those on the edges to come closer. Many of those who were comfortable and settled continued to reject him, or simply missed the opportunity to welcome him into their homes, their lives, because they did not grasp who he was.

We easily sanitise our recounting of the birth of Jesus as we celebrate Christmas.

The stable becomes a homely scene, softly lit, populated with wise men, shepherds and cute donkeys. We forget it was a last resort: a dirty shed occupied because young refugee parents were shut out of all the more suitable accommodation. Let’s allow ourselves to engage with this part of the story differently this time, perhaps allowing ourselves to consider whether we would have welcomed a refuge family into our homes then, and whether we would now.

Let’s also reflect this Christmas on whether we are really ready to welcome Jesus into our homes, our lives, not just at Christmas, as a baby, but the rest of the year, as our Lord and Saviour, and one who invites us to love and welcome those who are outcasts, as he loves and welcomes us.

Nikki Groarke, Archdeacon of Dudley The Ismere Messenger, page 4

Diary for December

(please check “Messenger Extra” for any last-minute changes) 2nd 3rd 4th

10.00am 10.30am 8.30am

6th

2nd Sunday of Advent 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30-11.00am Youth Alpha meeting at Holy Trinity 9.30am Morning Prayer at St. Oswald’s 9.30am Family Service & Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am All Age service at St. Barnabas 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 11.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley

Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley Holy Communion at St. Mary’s

9th 10th 11th

10.00am 10.30am 8.30am 7.00pm

13th

3rd Sunday of Advent 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am Holy Communion at Holy Trinity 9.30am Morning Prayer at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Oswald’s 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Barnabas 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 11.00am Worship4All at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Morning Prayer at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley 4.30pm Christingle Service at St. Barnabas 4.30pm Carol Service at Holy Trinity 6.30pm “Blue Christmas” at St. Barnabas

15th

10.00am 3.30-5.00pm 7.00pm 10.00am 10.30am 8.30am

16th 17th 18th

Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley Holy Communion at St. Mary’s Mayor’s Carol Service at St. Mary’s

Mothers’ Union Corporate Communion at St. Barnabas “Jam and Bread” in Arley Memorial Hall Prostate Cancer Carol Service at St. Mary’s Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley Holy Communion at St. Mary’s The Ismere Messenger, page 5

20th

4th Sunday of Advent 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am All Age service at Holy Trinity 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Oswald’s (with Cookley) 10.30am Morning Prayer at St. Mary’s 11.00am Carol Service at St. Barnabas 11.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 3.00pm Carol Service at Broadwaters Methodist Church 6.30pm Carol Service at St. John’s, Wolverley 6.30pm Carol Service at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley

22nd 23rd

6.30pm 10.00am

Carol Service at St. Peter’s, Cookley Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley

24th

Christmas Eve 10.30am 3.00pm 4.00pm 5.00pm 5.00pm 5.30pm TBC 11.30pm 11.30pm 11.30pm 11.30pm 11.30pm

Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley Crib Service at St. Peter’s, Cookley Crib Service at St. Barnabas Crib Service at St. Oswald’s Crib Service at St. Mary’s Crib Service at St. John’s, Wolverley Crib Service at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley Midnight Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley Midnight Communion at St. Barnabas Midnight Communion at St. Mary’s Midnight Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley Midnight Communion at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley

25th

Christmas Day 8.00am 9.30am 9.30am 10.00am 10.30am

Christmas Communion at St. Mary’s Christmas Communion at Holy Trinity Christmas Communion at St. Oswald’s Christmas Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley Christmas Communion at St. Mary’s

26th

Stephen, deacon, first martyr

27th

John, Apostle and Evangelist 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Barnabas 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s The Ismere Messenger, page 6

28th 30th 31st

The Holy Innocents 10.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley

Diary for January

(please check “Messenger Extra” for any last-minute changes) 3rd

2nd Sunday of Christmas 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30-11.00am Youth Alpha meeting at Holy Trinity 9.30am Family Service & Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am Morning Prayer at St. Oswald’s 9.30am All Age service at St. Barnabas 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 11.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley 6.30pm Evensong at St. Mary’s

5th 6th

3.30-5.00pm Epiphany 10.00am 10.30am 8.30am

7th 8th

“Jam and Bread” in Arley Memorial Hall Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley Holy Communion at St. Mary’s

10th

Baptism of Christ [1st Sunday of Epiphany] 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am Holy Communion (CW) at Holy Trinity 9.30am Morning Prayer at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am St. Oswald’s join Broadwaters Methodists 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Barnabas 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 11.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Morning Prayer at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley 6.30pm Evensong at St. John’s, Wolverley

13th 14th 15th 15th

10.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley 8.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s Deadline for next edition of “The Messenger”

The Ismere Messenger, page 7

17th

2nd Sunday of Epiphany 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am All Age service at Holy Trinity 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Oswald’s 9.30am Morning Prayer at St. Barnabas 10.30am “Baxter Service” at St. Mary’s 11.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley 6.30pm Evensong at St. Barnabas

19th 20th 21st 22nd

10.00am 10.00am 10.30am 8.30am

24th

3rd Sunday of Epiphany 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am Morning Prayer at Holy Trinity 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Oswald’s 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Barnabas 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 11.00am Morning Prayer at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Morning Prayer at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley

25th 27th 28th 29th

Conversion of Paul 10.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley 8.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s

29th

Next edition of “The Messenger” published

31

st

Mothers’ Union Corporate Communion at St. Barnabas Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley Holy Communion at St. Mary’s

Presentation of Christ in the Temple [Candlemas] 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Oswald’s 9.30am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 11.00am Holy Communion at St. Barnabas 11.00am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley

The Ismere Messenger, page 8

From the Parish Registers Baptisms

6th September Bobbie May WARD-STEAD at St. John's, Wolverley 6th September Zachary William John HAYWOOD at St. John's, Wolverley

13th September Leoander Jacob Kevin BEAUMONT at St. Peter's, Cookley 13th September Maddyson Mae HUGHES at St. Mary's 13th September Lily Claire PARSONS at St. Mary's 13th September Grace Elizabeth THOMAS at St. Barnabas 20th September Zachary Kelvin James HILL at St. Mary's 20th September Oliver George BREAKWELL at St. Mary's 20th September James William CASE at St. Peter's, Cookley 20th September Maddie Ann CASE at St. Peter's, Cookley 20th September Thomas Charles SLYM at St. Peter's, Cookley 27th September Harrison Mitchell GAY at St. Peter's, Cookley 27th September Oliver Patrick CLEGG at St. John's, Wolverley 27th September Harriet Jane OLIVER at St. John's, Wolverley 4th October

Chloe Lillian HALL at St. Mary's

th

Casey James FOX at St. Mary's

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Roxy Mae Elizabeth GATES at St. Mary's

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Joshua James HORAN at St. Mary's

th

Roseann Mae SHAW at St. John's, Wolverley

th

Hayden Thomas RUSH at St. Mary's

th

Tyler Shaun Stanley KANE at St. Mary's

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Chase Junior Lee KANE at St. Mary's

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Harrison William CONNOR at St. Peter's, Cookley

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Darcey Kimberley HAWKINS at St. Mary's

th

Jack James DIDLICK at St. Barnabas

4 October 4 October 11 October 11 October 11 October 25 October 25 October 25 October 25 October 25 October st

1 November Luke Benjamin Nicolas Bradley HUGHES at St. Mary's 1st November st

1 November

Nicole Frances Rose HUGHES at St. Mary's Sarah Louise CAVE at St. Mary's

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1 November Abigale Hannah CAVE at St. Mary's 1st November

Niamh Alexandra Olive JEFFS at St. Barnabas

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8 November Millie Leah RUDD at St. John's, Wolverley The Ismere Messenger, page 9

Weddings

12th September Simon Philip HARRIS and Nicola Charlotte Jill BURGESS at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley 12th September Mark John REAH and Sarah Jane KIRBY-DAVIS at St. John’s, Wolverley 18th September Richard Kieran MILLS and Katie BELWORTHY at St. Peter’s, Cookley 26th September Stuart EDWARDS and Natalie Louise BELL at St. John’s, Wolverley 24th October

Martyn Geoffrey STEPHENS and Tracy Jane ROBERTS at St. Mary’s

Blessings of Marriage

26th September David KWONG and Caroline Louise ROWE at St. Mary’s 29th October

Anthony Frederick and Joyce Eileen SHAW at St. Barnabas

Funerals

1st September Ronald COLES at Wyre Forest Crematorium 2nd September Gordon Charles VIVASH at Stourbridge Crematorium

2nd September Cynthia Mary KING (88) at Wyre Forest Crematorium 2nd September Rosemary Kathleen GALE (84) at Wyre Forest Crematorium 3rd September Marjorie PIMLOTT (98) at Wyre Forest Crematorium 4th September George William Bernard RILEY (82) at Wyre Forest Crem.

4th September Roger HADLEY at Wyre Forest Crematorium 9th September Doreen YARSLEY (78) at St. Mary’s 14th September Margaret HARVEY (68) at Wyre Forest Crematorium 16th September Mark JOHNSON (35) at Wyre Forest Crematorium 16th September Geoffrey Raymond WHITTALL (69) at Wyre Forest Crem.

17th September Samuel Henry MORRIS (infant) at Wyre Forest Cemetery 21st September Susan June STEVENS (84) at Wyre Forest Crematorium 25th September Marjorie Florence SCRIVEN (91) at Wyre Forest Crematorium 30th September Wendy Ann HOWLES (69) at St. Mary’s 30th September May Christina KLIMKOWSKI (64) at St. John’s, Wolverley 1st October nd

2 October

George Harvey EASTWOOD (89) at St. John’s, Wolverley Angus Alexander Gordon SHEPHERD (82) at Wyre Forest Crem The Ismere Messenger, page 10

5th October

Betty Nethe May HADLEY (89) at Wyre Forest Crematorium

th

Audrey EMBLETON (89) at Wyre Forest Crematorium

th

Aileen Patricia CONNOLLY (60) at St. Barnabas, Franche

th

Doris BODEN (91) at Wyre Forest Crematorium

th

Phyllis Rose MASSEY (81) at St. Peter’s, Cookley

th

Vera Enid BADGER (97) at St. Barnabas, Franche

th

Priscilla Sylvia WHITTAKER (91) at Wyre Forest Crematorium

th

John Henry WYATT (64) at Wyre Forest Crematorium

th

Edna May LOWE (98) at St. Barnabas, Franche

th

William Albert Sydney RATTENBURY (78) at WF Crematorium

th

Stanley Oliver DAVIS (74) at Wyre Forest Crematorium

th

Samantha Claire KNIGHT (31) at Wyre Forest Crematorium

7 October 9 October 15 October 16 October 19 October 20 October 27 October 29 October 30 October 30 October 30 October

Interment of Ashes 11th August th

28 August

Ron & Amy PENNEY at St. John’s, Wolverley George Ronald BRITTON at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley

rd

3 September Michael John FULLER at St. Peter’s, Cookley 11th September Muriel PARRY at St. John’s, Wolverley 17th September Roland WARD at St. John’s, Wolverley 2nd October th

16 October

Wendy Sophia STEADMAN at St. Peter’s, Cookley Geoffrey Brian BISHOP at St. John’s, Wolverley

Advent and Spirituality Advent is a time when we focus on waiting in darkness for the light of Christ.

This advent I will be leading 5 sessions focusing on what it is to wait using the Traditional advent candles to focus our minds: The Patriarchs, The Prophets, John the Baptist, Mary and The light of the world; Jesus.

We will explore some ways in which spirituality can be experienced and be building up our knowledge and skills in preparation for Christmas.

The groups take place at St. Peter’s, Cookley on Friday lunch times (1.00pm) and began on 20th November and are repeated on Thursday evenings at 7.45pm beginning 26th November.

If you are interested then please contact Nigel Taylor for more information.

The Ismere Messenger, page 11

Situations Vacant

Kidderminster Ismere Parish are still looking for a Secretary for the Parochial Church Council. This is a voluntary position; if you think that this might interest you and would like to know more of what the position entails, please contact the Team Rector; Rose Lawley by ‘phone on 01562 748274 or email: rosemarylawley@gmail.com

Thank you.

I

Holland House – Discover a Treasure

N AN ACT OF extraordinary generosity 70 years ago Mrs Amy Holland gave her riverside home in the village of Cropthorne to the diocese of Worcester.

Her vision was that this black-and-white part-thatched house with Lutyensinspired gardens would be used for Christian reflection and learning. One nearly90-year-old remembers first coming here as a Sunday School teacher in her late teens!

Seven decades on, still owned by the diocese but run as an independent trust, with a small dedicated staff headed by the Warden, and a devoted band of Friends some 130 strong, Holland House thrives as a house of hospitality open to people of all traditions and faiths. It can accommodate up to 30 guests in single and twinbedded rooms for mid-week or week-end retreat and conference stays. Dayguests – we can feed up to 45 – are welcomed for individual or group visits, either to create their own spiritual space of to take part in the House’s own programme.

Originally a seventeenth century cottage, extended early in the twentieth-century to become a gentleman’s residence, the House now has added bedrooms with modern facilities, a conference room, suite with enhanced disability access, and a Chapel where the worship space looks out beyond the altar to the garden through a huge cruciform window. Our motto is ‘In harmony with creation’ and from the food prepared in the kitchen to the themes of quiet days and retreats we seek to be true to that claim.

Visit our web-site: www.hollandhouse.org - or telephone 01386-860330 to request that information be sent to you. Individuals and groups are equally welcome.

Maybe you and your friends would like to sample our winter afternoon teas or pre-Christmas lunches. To celebrate God’s gifts in life or to be still in the presence of the Lord, this is a special sacred space.

Canon David Rogers, Chairman of Friends of Holland House.

The Ismere Messenger, page 12

News & Views From Broadwaters

Church of St. Oswald St. Oswald’s Church Centre For Parties, Wedding Receptions, Anniversaries, etc.

Further information from: Mrs. Ros Page on 01562 751265

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Peter Page; A Tribute

T. OSWALD'S CHURCH and the Kidderminster Ismere Team lost a great friend and supporter when Peter Page died on 13th October, following a heart attack. Peter has been a valued member of our congregation for many years, serving on the DCC and performing the offices of Treasurer for some time and Lay Chair. He was also a Chalice Assistant and a Home Communion Visitor.

One of his other roles was on the door at the Autumn Fairs at the Town Hall, often standing on the steps ringing our handbell trying to entice the public to enter and sample the treats on offer. A quieter role was to offer support and encouragement to Ros in the considerable work that she does in St. Oswald's and the Team.

Peter was born at the Lucy Baldwin Maternity Home in Stourport in July 1939, and spent his childhood living in Wribbenhall, Bewdley. Living close to Wribbenhall Church, he joined the Church choir and thus developed a love of choral singing and music in general. Peter attended Wribbenhall school and then New Meeting and Sladen Schools in Kidderminster. The move to schools in Kidderminster arose because his parents wanted him to attend a Church school and one of the Churchwardens at Wribbenhall happened to be a Governor of Sladen School. Maybe a case of who you know! Peter became Head Boy of Sladen School, and in later years he became a Governor of the school. During his time at Sladen, he developed an interest in the performing arts, joining the Carpet Trades Operatic Society, continuing to be a member for the rest of his life. He also had associations with the other local amateur operatic groups in the district, and he was a very keen member of the New Dimensional Choir. As a youngster, he was a member of the Boy Scouts, an interest he maintained through Scout leadership for many years.

The Ismere Messenger, page 13

On leaving school, as was the norm, Peter joined the carpet industry with Carpet Trades in the Sales department, a period interrupted with National Service; 2 years in the Royal Army Pay Corps in Germany. Further employment was with Ludlow Carpets, followed by a move into soft furnishings, working for several companies before eventually working for himself before retirement. Retirement brought a liking for the coffee culture, with a visit to Nero's in town several times a week being high on the list of priorities.

In his youth, Peter was introduced to Bewdley Rowing Club, creating a life-long interest in rowing, starting with active participation as an oarsman, through to coaching and umpiring at many of the local regattas. As an oarsman for Bewdley, an event was to enable him to "fall on his feet"; a meeting at local rivals Stourport Boat Club with Ros. Peter is quoted as saying that Ros was the best thing to come out of Stourport; I agree, probably since the trams! As a result, a wedding in 1967 took place at St. Bartholomew's Church, Areley Kings and 48 years of happy marriage. They bought a house in Kendlewood Road , which remains the family home today, where children Jonathan and Suzanne were raised. Most family holidays were camping holidays, including an annual visit to the Henley Royal Regatta, which was attended a total of 48 times. Peter's love of rowing was passed on to both Jonathan and Suzy, who both became rowers for Bewdley. Jonathan achieved considerable success as a member of Bewdley crews which competed at Henley on several occasions and many Tideway Head of The River events in London.

Suzy's 2 children, William and Caitlin, have given Peter and Ros great pleasure in their retirement. There is strong evidence to suggest that Caitlin will be following in Grandad's footsteps on the stage.

I first met Peter when Sue and I moved from Marlborough into Kendlewood Road, together with our, then 18-month old, daughter Caroline in 1975. The vendor of the house we bought had told us that a lovely young, friendly couple lived over the road, and so it proved. Ros and Peter became great friends of ours; Caroline and Suzy became the best of friends, as they are still 40 years later. Peter and I had a common interest in rowing, as I had pulled a (admittedly) light oar at school in Hereford, and at university. Peter's strong links with Hereford Rowing Club revealed that he knew a number of oarsmen who had been, slightly older, school colleagues of mine. Thus, over the years we had many discussions over such items as the shortcomings of the Cambridge crew in the Boat Race, or the oddities of some of the courses at many of the rowing regattas where he was invited to umpire. I suspect Peter was a connoisseur of the annual ARA Rowing Almanac.

The Ismere Messenger, page 14

As mentioned earlier, Peter became a Governor of Sladen School. When it became 50 years since he had left Sladen as a boy, Peter decided to organise a school reunion, which proved successful and led to the formation of the Old Sladenians Association. Peter had a great passion for Sladen School and I remember the period when a number of Parochial Church Council meetings were held at the school. Peter would look for every opportunity to proudly show council members round the school, eagerly pointing out the flawless decoration of the classrooms and corridors, as indeed it was. I know he was devastated by the decision to close Sladen School with the onset of the two-tier education system in Wyre Forest. The later decision to demolish the building was a further blow which he felt deeply.

How sad it is to see today the flattened school site, looking abandoned and neglected. However, the Old Sladenians live on, and at the Broadwaters Fair in July, the group set up an exhibition of the history of the school. Peter enjoyed a wonderful day talking to a large number of people who stopped and chatted, exchanging memories about their time at Sladen.

We at St. Oswald's will miss Peter greatly. I'm sure he is now a member of the senior elite eight crew on that smooth course up above, the cox having given the final order, "ease the oar............easy" Farewell, my friend. (see photo on page 27) Brian Murkett; (With thanks to Rose for her information and help) Ros Page, Jonathan, Suzanne and family thank everyone so much for the lovely cards and messages of sympathy following the sudden death of Peter.

The love and kindness we have received during this sad time has been a great comfort to us and very much appreciated.

We thank Rose for leading the beautiful service of thanksgiving, Alex, Nigel and Brian for the readings and prayers, and James, John Quelch and the N.D.E Choir for the music. Thank you also to our friends at St. Oswald's for helping with the refreshments.

It was quite overwhelming to see so many friends joining us to say our goodbyes to Peter. He would be so proud.

God Bless you all.

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St. Oswald's Harvest Festival

S USUAL, Harvest was a Broadwaters L.E.P. Celebration with Broadwaters Methodist Church and was hosted by the Methodists at Chapel. The service was conducted by Rev. Nigel, with his talk including an account of his coming to Christianity and the Church, with the theme of " just a ......" giving us much food for thought.

Following the service we enjoyed a splendid lunch together, prepared by members of both churches. A sum of ÂŁ135 was raised to support the All We Can project of The Ismere Messenger, page 15

Methodist Relief & Development, in particular to support the development of beekeeping projects throughout Ethiopia. Many thanks to all who helped with the preparations and attended the service and lunch. The occasion was added to with it being Nigel's birthday, with Happy Birthday being sung and a cake presented to him. (photos on page 29) Brian Murkett

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St. Oswalds’ News

UR HARVEST FESTIVAL on 4th October was hosted by Broadwaters Methodists. The service was conducted by Revd. Nigel (on his Birthday!)

We enjoyed a lunch afterwards, supplied by both churches during which Revd. Nigel had to blow out his birthday candles while we all sang our version of "Happy Birthday to You".

The charity we supported was the Methodist Relief and Development "All we Can" project for setting up bee keeping in Ethiopia.

We also wished Revd. Rose "Happy Birthday" with cake after our service on Sunday 27th September.

Sadly, we have lost Peter Page. He was a popular figure to so many friends and colleagues. The packed congregation at St. Mary's Church for his funeral service showed how popular he was. Our sincere sympathy goes out to Ros and her family.

Future dates: Sunday, 20th December; Carol Service 3pm at Broadwaters Methodist Church.

Christingle Service will be at St. Oswald's School at Epiphany - date to be finalised.

Sunday, 17th January. LEP Covenant Service; 9.30am St Oswald's Church Centre.

Tuesday, 26th January. DCC meeting; 7.30pm - venue tba.

Sheila Mason

The Ismere Messenger, page 16

Broadwaters Ladies

Our Christmas Party is on 9th December with entertainment by Barry Owen.

Ian Johnston is the speaker on Wednesday 20th January – “Orangtan Man”.

Best Wishes for a Happy Christmas and peaceful New Year.

Meetings commence at 7.30pm at St. Oswald’s Church Centre.

Pam Hopkins

From Cookley Parish Church of St. Peter

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Cookley Parish Church 100 Club

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The Friends of St. Peter's Church

T LONG LAST, we now have the bank account set-up for the 100 Club!!

The monthly draws will begin as from January 2016, so if you want to take part, please complete an application form available from the church or if that is not convenient, just phone me on 01562 829352 or email paul.blackham@outlook.com and I will get a form to you. Thank you.

Paul

E HELD A SUCCESSFUL AUTUMN FAYRE in Cookley Village Hall in October making a profit of £557.00. My thanks go to all the hard-working members of the committee; some of them have been knitting Christmas goodies for months to sell at the Fayre and at the gift stall which we will have at the Church Christmas Bazaar on 28th November which will also be held in the village hall from 2pm to 4pm. As well as the committee members there are many other people who help on the day to whom I would like to extend my thanks. The kitchen would not be the same without Joan Kidd and her sisters running the tea and coffee sales. The well-presented bric-a-brac stall would certainly not be the same without Les Reynolds and Carol Marks (the sister act) keeping everyone cheerful.

Pam Poxon's daughter Gina and her granddaughters Hannah and Natasha are always to be seen on the gift stall and Elaine Perry-Keene and Doreen Parker help out Irene Bonner on the cake stall.

Daphne Rice not only helped Marian with the tombola, but also made lots of goodies for us to sell so many thanks to her. Last but not least Audrey Jones helps out on the raffle. So many people to thank but without them the events would not be as successful as they are. Add to these people all the kind folk who donate raffle prizes and items for us to sell, my thanks to you all.

The Ismere Messenger, page 17

I have had a few orders from the Webb ivory catalogue this year; however this will be the last time that I will be running it as most of the goods advertised can be obtained cheaper elsewhere and it is becoming more difficult to get new customers. I would like to thank all the people who have been loyal customers over the many years that I have been running this as 'The Friends' were able to raise a lot of money from it in the past.

All the money raised by 'The Friends' goes to the church for repairs and maintenance and we have just given the treasurer ÂŁ2,000 to pay for this year's upkeep of the churchyard. It costs a lot of money to keep the churchyard in good condition, and still people complain!

I would like to wish all our supporters a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please support the Church Bazaar on 28th November and then we just have the Christmas Shopping trip to Nottingham on 5th December. I will be back in February when we have arranged our programme for 2016.

Marlene Broomhead (01562 824743) Fuller's Funnies.

Airborne approximately thirty minutes on an outbound evening flight from Glasgow, the lead flight attendant for the cabin crew nervously made the following painful announcement.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I'm so very sorry but it appears that there has been a terrible mix-up one minute prior to take-off, by our airport catering service.

I don't know how this happened but we have 103 passengers on board and unfortunately only 40 dinner meals.... I truly apologize for this mistake and inconvenience" When passengers' muttering had died down she continued, "Anyone who is kind enough to give up their meal so that someone else can eat will receive free, unlimited drinks for the duration of our 5 hour flight" Her next announcement came 90 minutes later....."If anyone would like to change their minds, we still have 40 dinners available"

Eileen

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Cookley W.I.

T OUR OCTOBER MEETING Mrs Evanson gave a report on the recent Presidents and Secretaries meeting and Mrs Eileen Fuller reported on Mrs Jeanne Rounds Centenary Tea Party which was held at her house on the 16th September was on the actual Centenary Day. Everyone had a lovely afternoon and Mrs Round was thanked for organising it including providing all the food. Mrs Kidd took photos The Ismere Messenger, page 18

which will provide us with happy future memories and these will be sent to Worcester and recorded.

The speaker for the evening was Mrs Diane Everton who was visiting us for the third time and her talk was entitled “My Life in Television (Part 2)�. Again she told us of the many exciting and interesting experience of her life as a TV Researcher, Producer and Director over a number of years. We heard of luxurious visits with members of the aristocracy and not so luxurious stays in jungles and the Amazon, with snakes and rats for company; also about her work with many famous stars and celebrities.

Mrs Eileen Fuller gave a vote of thanks and echoed many of our thoughts when she said we could have gone on listening to her for very much longer.

Irene Bonner

The Frost The Lights are on and the curtains are drawn, It's very dark out there, I wonder what goes on Out there in the dark black night.

The birds are all in their nests, The animals are settled for the night, But hush, is that an owl I hear, Out there in the dark black night.

The frost makes its presence felt Once the cloud has lifted, And then we see the moon Which breaks into the dark black night.

What do we find when we draw back the curtains, Jack Frost has had a busy night, But oh! what patterns the frost can make As they appear in the bright daylight.

The day moves on and the patterns disappear, I saw people taking pictures, no one can create The patterns of the frost like the frost itself, And now we know it's Winter.

The Ismere Messenger, page 19

Barbara Pugh

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Cookley Village School in Times Past

OPIES OF THIS BOOK, covering the period from 1849 to 2000 are available from Cookley Post Office. Priced at only £5 per copy they might make a suitable Christmas Gift with the proceeds going to the “Friends” of the school towards funding for an “Adventure Playground”.

Betty Caswell

From Kidderminster Parish Church of St. Mary and All Saints

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The Re-ordering of 1785-87 at St. Mary's

N 1785-87 ST. MARY'S CHURCH underwent a large-scale re-ordering. The Act of Parliament of 25 George III for the "repairing, new pewing, seating etc" of that church claims that many people in Kidderminster were not attending their parish church "by reason they cannot be accommodated with seats and kneelings" So the main purpose of the Act was to increase the seating by, in the words of the Act, "several hundred", and of course greatly to increase the church's revenue from the pews and kneelings. The Act also speaks of the removal of "the Pulpit, Reading Desk, Clerk's Desk and the several Seats, Pews, Galleries etc.” to this end. As a result St. Mary's lost the Jacobean pulpit now in New Meeting, the communion table (part of it is now at Baxter church), and all the old pews and galleries. The Trustees (many of them Nonconformists) chosen to oversee the reordering of the church were apparently unmoved by the aesthetic and historic interest of what was removed, and the association of at least some of it with Richard Baxter, who ministered there for some fifteen years in the mid-17th century. To an age utterly certain of the excellence of its own taste the pulpit was quaint and old-fashioned. It was soon replaced by a 'three-decker' pulpit after the latest fashion, which was (another fashionable feature) placed in front of the high altar.

Edward Bradley's 1845 water-colour painting of the interior shows that the new pews came right up to the altar-rails, hemming in all the chancel monuments (the Cokesey and the two Blount tombs). In 1872 Bradley recorded that the new pews rendered the Sir Ralph Clare ledger-stone invisible, so that it was not until 1847 (when a new re-ordering began) that he was able to read the inscription on it.

The Trustees employed two architects, James Rose of Bewdley and (?later) Thomas Johnson of Worcester. Johnson claimed that his North and South galleries The Ismere Messenger, page 20

were of Riga oak. They were in fact of horse-chestnut, and, some eighty years later, when the deception was discovered, were in danger of imminent collapse.

The South gallery was rested on the tomb of Lady Joyce Beauchamp. Inevitably the pinnacles and finials of that tomb were damaged; in addition a visitor of 1816 states that her tomb was "nearly blocked up in its lower lines with pews".

This melancholy catalogue could be very considerably extended, but there is space for only one other (truly horrendous) consequence of the 1785-87 re-ordering. At the South West end was a 14th century Cokesey tomb. In 1770, according to a 1792 visitor, it was "tolerably perfect" and "under a beautiful arch". When he saw it again in 1792 the arch was gone and the tomb was in a sad and mutilated condition. By the 1840s there was no longer a trace of it.

The Trustees meant well; they were educated and conscientious men, as no doubt was the Vicar Thomas Wickens. But their obsession with seating, their negligence and their lack of feeling and concern for the church's monuments and its history led to losses and accidental damage far greater than the church suffered from the Puritan iconoclasts of the 16th and 17th centuries. Their uncaring attitude permeated the entire process of re-ordering: architects (Thomas Johnson at any rate), masons and workmen were largely unsupervised and unmonitored, and possibly felt they could get away with practically anything. Writing of the damage to the chancel, the historian Nash wrote, "…the monuments were scandalously broken, and mended according to the ignorance of the mason". Bradley's 1845 painting shows Sir Hugh Cokesey's lower legs were then missing. That damage must have occurred in 1785-87.

The final irony is that the church was frequently, in 1787 and later, said to have been 'beautified'. Beauty is of course in the eye of the beholder, but a more judicious verdict is that of John Severn Walker, of the Diocesan Architectural Society, who visited St. Mary's in 1856: "This church was 'repaired and beautified' during the last century … The chancel had its East window blocked up, a flat plaster ceiling was introduced … Monuments and brasses were also destroyed, carved wood demolished … The sacred edifice remained in this unsatisfactory state till 1847,,,,,,," Don Gilbert

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St. Mary’s Ladies Fellowship

S 2015 DRAWS TO A CLOSE, we can look back on another full programme which has seen us enjoy a variety of events, including wide ranging, stimulating talks and demonstrations, convivial social evenings, our annual theatre outing, summer meal and Christmas dinner – once again there has been something for everyone this year.

The Ismere Messenger, page 21

At our well attended AGM in September, the Officers and Committee were all reelected and a pleasing increase in membership was noted.

Members were thanked for their continuing loyalty and for helping to make the Fellowship such a friendly and supportive group. Finances, too, continued to be sound allowing for a £50 donation to be made to St Mary’s Roof Appeal and £50 to Kidderminster Child Contact Centre, all this in addition to donations via speakers throughout the year to such organisations as Gideon International, Acorn’s Children’s Hospital Trust, and Kemp. The Christmas Child “Shoebox Appeal” has also once again been supported by the Fellowship this year and widened to receive contributions from the wider parish congregation, donations from whom have been greatly appreciated - can you just imagine the smile such items will put on the faces of those who receive them!

Next year’s packed programme has now been confirmed and copies are available from the Parish Office, the back of St Mary’s Church, or from our Programme Secretary, Ann Stephenson (K. 639535). We continue to meet in St Mary’s Chantry at 7.30 p.m. every second and fourth Wednesday of the month unless notified otherwise, and details of forthcoming meetings are advertised in Messenger Xtra and on the notice board at the back of St Mary’s church.

Our meetings for the beginning of next year are as follows: 13th January 27th January 10th February 24th February 9th March

New Year’s Party with Entertainment - all welcome Bryan Smith talking about Street Pastors Ash Wednesday - No Meeting Pub Lives in Poetry with Tony Smith Rarities of Witley Court with Richard & Les Betts

Do come along and join us, and in the meantime, the Committee and members of St Mary’s Ladies Fellowship wish you all joy and peace at Christmas and in the year to come.

Sue Coombes; Chairman

The Friends of St. Mary’s, Kidderminster

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“Mr. Baxter, Minister of the Word at Kidderminster”

VENTS CONNECTED WITH the 400th anniversary of the birth of Richard Baxter gained momentum during October. Early in the month several people from the parish attended and appreciated Don Gilbert’s talk on Baxter for The Civic Society at New Meeting House. Later in the month, we were joined by members of Baxter URC and New Meeting House for a coffee and cake morning in St. Mary’s Church, which raised £70 to help with the costs of the celebrations. More important than that, however, was the wonderful ecumenical atmosphere which prevailed. The event was so enjoyable that the minister of The Ismere Messenger, page 22

Baxter URC, the Revd Andrew Mann-Ray suggested that we should do something similar during the February 2016 half-term – watch this space! We were also pleased to welcome and meet the newly appointed minister of New Meeting House, the Revd Winnie Gordon.

Thursday, 12th November was the 400th birthday of Richard Baxter. Celebrations began at Baxter URC with Richard Baxter himself present in the form of Dave Laverty who kindly agreed to play the part in full and appropriate attire. After a welcome from Andrew Mann-Ray, “Mr. Baxter” read extracts about his life and times during his second period in Kidderminster (1644-1662). The birthday cake, made by Tony’s Bakery, was ceremoniously cut before the gathering, and then taken into Baxter Church Lecture Room where everyone was able to enjoy coffee and cake together.

The ‘birthday’ continued with a service of Holy Communion in St. Mary’s Church at 12.30 p.m. which was taken according to the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, for Baxter himself would have been familiar with that form of service.

The Revd Canon Rose Lawley presided, and preached a most thoughtful sermon on Baxter. The fact that the service was attended by five clergy representing four different denominations would have delighted Baxter.

Finally on that day, a celebration in music and dance was held in the Town Hall at 7.30 p.m. This was a lively occasion which drew a good and appreciative audience.

The four day period of special events continued on the Friday when New Meeting House hosted a coffee morning at which we indulged in another birthday cake, again, specially made by Tony’s Bakery. The members of New Meeting House, along with their minister, Winnie, offered us a warm welcome.

On the Saturday, the three town churches associated with Baxter were open for visitors to look around and view the various items of Baxter furniture, and books.

St. Mary’s Church combined this occasion with the Christmas Crafters’ coffee morning and the sale of their hand-crafted Christmas cards which this dedicated group of people has been busily making in recent months. This created a pleasant, social atmosphere and we were delighted to welcome a number of visitors who had come especially to take part in the Baxter Church Trail, including the Revd David Johnson, a retired vicar who had travelled from Crewe, and the Revd Andrew Wickens, Team Vicar of Dudley, who was appointed an Honorary Canon of Worcester Cathedral at the same time as Revd Rose.

Our celebrations at St. Mary’s reached their climax this morning with BCP Matins and guest-preacher, Prof. Adrian R. Hill, who took the opportunity to look at some of the fundamental principles of Baxter’s theology as a Christian, and his plea for tolerance in the church, juxtaposed by some of his actions of apparent The Ismere Messenger, page 23

intolerance, for example, his refusal to sign the oath of allegiance to the 1662 Book of Common Prayer. Baxter was a complex man, but he lived by a very simple and profound maxim: “In necessary things unity; in doubtful things, liberty; in all things, charity.” In his later writings, it seems clear Baxter was keen to bequeath a legacy of his ecumenical vision, and, for society in general, Baxter reminds us that while it is possible to have peace without unity, it is not possible to have unity without peace.

The Baxter celebrations have caused us to work more closely with Baxter URC and New Meeting House. This can only be a positive outcome, and one of which Baxter would have approved.

(See photos on page 30) ”Happy 400th Birthday, Richard Baxter!”

Theo Mayfield, Iris Baggott, Adrian R. Hill STOP PRESS……………Prof. Adrian’s excellent exhibition in the town library, giving a brief history of Richard Baxter, is to run until the end of December.

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Visitor Stewards at St Mary’s

TEWARDING FOR THE SEASON ended on 10th October. We have had another very successful year recording over 1,000 visitors since May. Once again we were delighted to welcome many people from all over the world and also surprisingly many form our own town who say ‘I have lived here for many years but have never been inside this building’. Several groups have come from South Korea to see & experience the building where Richard Baxter preached. (See photo on page 28) The Koreans are fascinated by Baxter’s life & hold faithfully to his teachings. We look forward to welcoming some of these people to the church again in November when they hope to come to some of the events to celebrate the 400th Anniversary of Baxter’s birth.

Once again looking at the comments in the Visitors Book at the back of the church there is no doubt that our efforts to keep the door open are really appreciated both by those who come in for a short time of peace & prayer & also to those who have an interest in the architecture.

I would like to record my grateful thanks to all our 44 Stewards who despite some rather cold ,wet days this summer have given the church such devoted service; only on 2 occasions have we found it necessary to close the door. (See photo on page 28) Well done Stewards & Thank You Peggy

The Ismere Messenger, page 24

D

Duck Houses

URING THE LAST FEW WEEKS I kept hearing ‘Have you seen the Duck Houses?’ So being inquisitive I went along to Jubilee Gardens in Bewdley & started walking. The Duck Houses were everywhere. They had been decorated by Societies, shops & clubs, etc; one was by Bewdley Twin Town & another by the Knit & Natter Group which was very cleverly covered in knitting material.

I had been told to look out for No 31 and there it was; the last House before the Museum entrance. It was delightful! Very colourful & fun - just what you would expect as it was from our own Arden House Lads!

(See photos on page 28) Well done Dale & Company you certainly got my vote & the journey to Bewdley was well worth the effort.

Peggy

From Wolverley Parish Church of St. John the Baptist

Wolverley Church Hall All enquiries should be made to: Richard Thomas on 01562 742768

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Gift Day Wolverley 2015

HANK YOU to all of the generous givers to our Gift Day. We know that, as in previous years, there will still be more coming in, but thought that you might like to know that so far we have received £1,458.

Church buildings take some upkeep. I’m sure it’s not as difficult as maintaining the Forth Road Bridge, it just seems as if it is! This year apart from paying our Parish Share (the cost of running the church and paying the diocese for their expertise we use) and our heating and lighting bills, we are also doing improvements: landscaping where the old shed was near the church, creating an extension of our Garden of Remembrance and completing the maintenance our architect said was urgent in our 5 yearly check-up.

Our church is highly regarded and we are thankful that we have the money to keep it warm and in good condition.

Jan; Revd Jan Ashton - Team Vicar, Kidderminster The Ismere Messenger, page 25

St. John the Baptist, Wolverley

LIGHT UP THE CHURCH [See page 32]

We illuminate the Church at Wolverley every night to form a focal point for the village. We give everyone the opportunity to sponsor the lighting. YOU can celebrate a birthday, a wedding anniversary, or the memory of a loved one. In fact – any reason. This is available to everyone, even if we don’t see you in church often, although that would be nice too!

Enquiries to Shirley 07817 731023

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Oft Wondered “Your very best--”

N COLD, DARK WINTER NIGHTS the volume of traffic on “Social Media”, such as Facebook, explodes as people seek communication with friends. Information of all sorts flashes round the internet. Some is clever; some is funny; some is political and some is puerile. Sometimes it is sad and the sender is lonely and needs someone to “talk to”. These connections are called “friends” and there is a supposed kudos attached to having a large number of on-line contact “friends”.

How sad and what an awful distortion of the meaning of the word friend. These are just contacts in an artificial setting with strange rules and protocols.

Fortunately, some of them in another context, may also be real friends. Real and true friends are always friends, no matter what either friend does. True friends listen; understand; empathise; help; forgive and give love. If friends who have not met for years, meet up, they start where they left off years ago as if nothing had happened. A real friend knows who you really are and still loves you no matter what happens in your life. The “unfriending” or ignoring on social media just does not exist with real friends.

Being a true friend is not easy. A real friend should do anything for you and that can be difficult. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lays down his life for his friends”. What a difficult and extreme definition of a true Christian friend!

So difficult, in fact, that Jesus had to come and demonstrate Christian love and friendship through his life and death and through his teachings, telling us how true friends should behave.

By doing this he must have become mankind’s “very best friend ever” and so his birthday has to be a very important time for us to rejoice in his friendship and be a true friend to others.

So let us all celebrate our mutual best friend’s birth and give love generously.

David Alexander The Ismere Messenger, page 26

The Ismere Messenger, page 27

The Ismere Messenger, page 28

The Ismere Messenger, page 29

The Ismere Messenger, page 30

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Wolverley Ladies Fellowship

UR SPEAKER FOR OCTOBER, Janet Dickenson, was very entertaining. She is a local lady now living in Chaddesley Corbett and her poetry was both amusing and relevant to us ladies.

We do not have a meeting in December, so we shall next be in the Church Hall at 7.30pm for the Annual General Meeting on Monday 25th January 2016. All are welcome to come and join us there.

Here’s wishing everyone a very happy Christmas and a healthy and happy 2016.

Mary

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Wolverley W.I.

OLVERLEY WI LADIES have enjoyed an interesting and varied programme throughout 2015, including numerous outings and some members enjoyed a trip or two to Denman. We warmly welcomed new members and a number of guests as the year has progressed.

Several members will again be singing in the carol concert on 4th December at St.Philip and St. James church, Hallow. We will then meet again on Monday 14th December for what will be our final meeting in 2015 and our annual Christmas meeting. Part of the entertainment will again be provided by Cool and Uke ukulele band, so the evening is sure to be enjoyed by all! A meeting not to be missed!

January 2016 sees the end of an era for our members as we will be moving both the venue and day for our meetings. Starting from our first meeting in January, our meetings will be held on the first Monday of each month and will be in the Church Hall. The time remains the same at 7:30pm.

Our January meeting will be on Monday 4th at 7:30pm in Wolverley Church Hall.

For this meeting we look forward to welcoming our first speaker of 2016 who will be the first female paramedic in an air ambulance.

All are very welcome to come along and see what we are about. Please also feel free to speak to one of our committee members or find our Facebook group for more information.

Sharran Grove

The Ismere Messenger, page 31

CHURCH FLOODLIGHTING SPONSORSHIP So far this year, the scheme has raised £360 for church funds

DECEMBER 7th 10th 15th 24th and 25th 25th 31st JANUARY 12th 16th

Andrew and Ann Bennett's Anniversary Pat Groves - Mom, 5 years ago today. Sending all our love.

Miss you, Love Sue, Steve and family xxxxx Treasured memories of Richard Duckett Remembering Jan Bridges Christmas memories of Michael Ayre Remembering Jan Bridges Treasured memories of Michael Ayre In memory of Harold Hart

Sincere thanks to all who have contributed (and continue to contribute).

Your support is so much appreciated, Shirley.

Wolverley Parish Church 100 Club – winning numbers

September 1st Prize Number 42 Number 1 2nd Prize rd 3 Prize Number 33 October 1st Prize Number 23 2nd Prize Number 29 rd 3 Prize Number 3 Congratulations to all winners.

£22.00 £13.20 £8.80 £24.50 £14.70 £9.80

From Trimpley Church of The Holy Trinity

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Visitors from Clacton

N SUNDAY THE 27TH SEPTEMBER our Evacuee friends travelled from Clacton to Trimpley. (See photos on page 29) They arrived in just under four hours with their driver Trevor and luckily the weather was with us.

The Ismere Messenger, page 32

We had a cuppa in the Village Hall together with friends from Trimpley. Rose also joined us and we all went over to the churchyard where Ben had planted a tree to match the one in Clacton. The ‘girls,’ Hazel and Isabel placed the final soil at the base of the tree which Rose blessed.

Isabel went to see the cottage she had lived in and the new owners Davina and Richard were very pleased to show her around and hear how their home used to be. Eleven enjoyed lunch and our visitors left at 4pm, unfortunately having a much longer journey back. It had been a good day all round for everyone.

The Harvest Festival was very good with all the food going to The Food Bank in Kidderminster, it weighed 44 kilos! A charity Ben and I support regularly too. A big thank you too for all who helped with the food at the Harvest Supper, especially the super sweets! £378 was raised and banked.

Money has begun to come in towards the repairs needed to the roof of the church.

The work has been held up but will hopefully start very soon. Again, a big thank you to everyone who has made a donation so far, the fund is still open, so if you would like to give something towards this work, please either contact Canon Rose or Chris Jordan.

Val Corfield

From Franche Church of St. Barnabas

St. Barnabas Community Hall is available for hire; short term or long term.

It has parking, large hall, kitchen and accessible toilets.

Telephone Polly for more details: 01562 755425 (after 6pm)

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Bishop's Certificates presented

N 9TH NOVEMBER Mariea and Michael Hickman were part of around 50 people in groups from Bewdley, Brierley Hill, Droitwich, Evesham and across the Black Country to receive a special certificate from Bishop John marking the completion of a course designed to help them relate their Christian faith to their own life and locality. (See photos on page 27) The Ismere Messenger, page 33

The groups took the Bishop’s Certificate course over 12 months with the support of local tutors. It covered subjects such as Christian faith and the Creeds, the Old and New Testaments, Pentecost and the Holy Spirit, discipleship and living as Christians with people of other faiths. They were presented with their certificate

by Assistant Bishop, the Rt. Revd. Michael Hooper.

Bishop Michael addressed the candidates before presenting them with their certificates. He offered warm congratulations to all those receiving certificates and said: “It’s great to see people learning and understanding more about our faith and having confidence in the scriptures. The bible is about people travelling with God and that’s what we’re all doing.”

St. Barnabas Mother’s Union

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N 2ND DECEMBER we will be having our Christmas lunch at the Three Crowns; the table has been reserved at 12.30.

Our first meeting in 2016 is on the 6th January 2 o’clock at 14 Woodland Avenue. We will discuss the programme for the year and have a small quiz.

Corporate communion will be on Tuesday 15th December and Tuesday 19th January; 10 o’clock at St Barnabas church followed by coffee and biscuits.

All are welcome to join us at the monthly meetings and corporate communion.

May we wish everyone a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year.

Chris Lewis

Dates for your diary th

Saturday 12 December: Music & Mince Pies, in St Barnabas Church. An evening of Music, Carols & Readings for Christmas. Music by pupils of Jess Hignell and St Barnabas Junior Choir, popular carols for all to sing, plus readings & poems for Christmas. Followed by Mince Pies & Mulled Wine, £5.00/head New Years Eve Party 9pm to Midnight - St Barnabas Community Hall. You are invited to our Party - games and light refreshments. Families, singles all invited.

Free but bring your own drink. Before midnight we will hold a short service in church. Limited numbers for the party so please phone Jan to book 01562 741381 Smile Line – Christmas (cracker) jokes What's brown and sneaks round the kitchen?

Mince spies.

What do you call a snowman with a suntan?

A puddle.

Who hides in the bakery at Christmas?

A mince spy!

The Ismere Messenger, page 34

and finally …

December Wordsearch.

Silent Night This much-loved carol comes from Austria, where it was first sung as Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht on Christmas Eve, 1818. It was written by Father Joseph Mohr, a young priest at St Nicholas parish church, in the village of Oberndorf bei Salzburg. As Christmas 1818 approached, he asked the local schoolmaster, Franz Xaver Gruber, to compose a melody for his carol. Gruber was organist in the nearby village of Arnsdorf, and so was happy to oblige. On Christmas Eve they presented the carol to the church during the midnight mass. The carol went on to become loved world-wide; and the version sung by Bing Crosby is the third bestselling single of all time.

Silent Loved Austria Sung Nacht Christmas Father Mohr Priest Midnight Melody Bing Third

Night Carol First Stille Heilige Eve Joseph Young Organist Mass Single Version

There is sad and momentous news this month: after ten years and seven months in the job, the Rev Dr Gary Bowness has reluctantly decided that it is time for Uncle Eustace to ‘bow out’. All good things must come to an end sometime, and thus Uncle Eustace retires this month. We will miss him! We thank Gary for all the pleasure the letters of Uncle Eustace has provided for us down the years (Parish Pump) Hopefully I will be able to resurrect some older “letters” to keep us going for a little while longer. This month’s letter can be read on page 38. (compo) The Ismere Messenger, page 35

Crossword

December/January Crossword Clues (Answers in next edition) Across 1 Rely (Psalm 62:7) (6) 4 ‘He stretches out the heavens like a — , and spreads them out like a tent to live in’ (Isaiah 40:22) (6) 7 What the dove carried the olive leaf in, when it returned to Noah’s ark (Genesis 8:11) (4) 8 Annoy (1 Samuel 1:6) (8) 9 Judah’s last king, who ended his days as a blind prisoner in Babylon (Jeremiah 52:11) (8) 13 ‘They all — and were satisfied’ (Luke 9:17) (3) 16 Eliphaz the Temanite was one; so was Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite (Job 2:11; 16:2) (4,9) 17 National Association of Evangelicals (of the USA) (1,1,1) 19 Popular song for New Year’s Eve, Auld — — (4,4) 24 Able dock (anag.) (8) 25 The number of stones David chose for his confrontation with Goliath (1 Samuel 17:40) (4) 26 Elgar’s best-known ‘Variations’ (6) 27 Soak (Isaiah 16:9) (6) Down 1 Money owing (Deuteronomy 15:3) (4) 2 Conciliatory (Titus 3:2) (9) 3 ‘Do this, whenever you — it, in remembrance of me’ (1 Corinthians 11:25) (5) 4 A group assisting in the governance of the Roman Catholic Church (5) 5 One of the gifts Joseph’s brothers took with them on their second journey to Egypt (Genesis 43:11) (4) 6 ‘Reach out your hand and — — into my side. Stop doubting and believe’ (John 20:27) (3,2) 10 Be outstandingly good (2 Corinthians 8:7) (5) The Ismere Messenger, page 36

11 ‘What — — that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?’ (Psalm 8:4) (2,3) 12 Horse’s feet (Judges 5:22) (5) 13 Notice (Deuteronomy 17:4) (9) 14 Comes between 2 Chronicles and Nehemiah (4) 15 One of Israel’s northern towns conquered by Ben-Hadad (1 Kings 15:20) (4) 18 Narnia’s Lion (5) 20 One of the two rivers in which Naaman would have preferred to wash (2 Kings 5:12) (5) 21 Avarice—one of the evils that come from inside people (Mark 7:22) (5) 22 Knight Grand Cross of St Michael and St George (1,1,1,1) 23 Jacob’s first wife (Genesis 29:23) (4) Answers to October/November Crossword Across 8, Kiriath Jearim. 9, Toe. 10, Ill at ease. 11, Hated. 13, Miletus. 16, Started.

19, Micah. 22, Leviticus. 24, Eli. 25, Mary and Joseph.

Down 1, Sketch. 2, Priest. 3, Samizdat. 4, Shalom. 5, Wept. 6, Breast. 7, Embers.

12, Art. 14, Limassol. 15, UNA. 16, Salome. 17, Adverb. 18, Decade. 20, Clever.

21, Height. 23, Tear.

The Ismere Messenger, page 37

(Letter from) The Rectory, St. James the Least of All

Farewell from Uncle Eustace

My dear Nephew Darren, And so, at the beginning of the New Year, you finally go to your own first parish and I, after 50 years of ordained ministry, am to move to a home for retired clergy.

Let me give you some final words of advice. Curates, you will have noticed, are forgiven everything. I hope you have appreciated this period of grace, because come 1st January, all that will change. You will then become responsible for everything that goes wrong in your church. You must be able to mend leaking taps, arrange flowers, mow the churchyard and run jumble sales. You will be expected to know the moment someone falls ill – preferably the day before. In addition, they will expect you to preach profound sermons in six minutes that will stir their souls but not upset them, and to lead a life of prayerful solitude while being the life and soul of the parish. From the day your predecessor left, he will have turned into a saint. You will be their new disappointment. Be assured that whatever you do, you will always disappoint someone. Sometimes you will manage to upset everyone.

Be prepared for phone-calls at 3am telling you that someone has left a light on in church, and shouldn’t you go turn it off. You will be asked about car parking arrangements for the October Harvest Service by mid-January, while hymns for the 9 Lessons and Carols will be required by early summer. I suggest you buy in extra pullovers, overcoats and scarves for life in your vicarage. A good number of mousetraps may well come in useful too. Welcome to your new life of an incumbent.

I, on the other hand, greatly relish the thought of no longer having to care about any parishioners. Instead, I shall become one myself – and am already planning my revenge. In fact, this afternoon, inspired by a large glass of sherry, I have begun a list of things I can complain about. The church is too cold, I don’t know any of the hymns, the vicar can’t preach, he never visits, and things are generally not as good as they used to be. True, I haven’t actually chosen my new church yet, but no matter, I will voice all these complaints when I get there.

Of course, I will not be in church on Sunday mornings if it is raining, or on Sunday evenings if something good is on the television. Most of all, I look forward to sitting as far back in church as is possible, and starting a campaign to stop ‘passing the peace’.

My new life as a parishioner will be richly rewarding. 50 years after ordination, I can hardly wait.

Your loving uncle, Eustace (Rev Dr Gary Bowness) The Ismere Messenger, page 38

For the Mathematically minded ‌

Simple

Not so simple

The Ismere Messenger, page 39

Organisations St. Mary's Musical Director James Bradley; email james@jamesb.org St. Mary's Bellringers - David Struckett; Ringing Master Thursdays 7.45pm St. Mary's Church; Tel. 01299 878461 St. Mary's Ladies' Fellowship; Sue Coombes 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 7.30 pm at The Chantry; Tel. 01384 896798 Friends of St. Mary's - Mrs. Iris Baggott; Tel. 01562 66219 St. Mary's Flower Rota - Mrs. Barbara Preece; Tel. 01562 66113 St. Peter's, Upper Arley Bellringers; Mrs. C. Wood; Tel. 01299 861537 Arley Women's Institute – Third Monday; Sports & Social Club, Arley.

Contact Mrs. Louvain Beer; 01299 861847 Trimpley Green Women’s Institute – 3rd Wednesday; 7.30pm in Village Hall St. Barnabas' Musical Director - Miss Jessica Hignell; Tel. 01562 741510 St. Barnabas' Mothers' Union - Mrs. Christine Lewis; Tel. 01562 631616 1st Wednesday, 2.00pm; 3rd Tuesday, Holy Communion at St. Barnabas' 10.00am.

Franche Women's Institute – 1st Tuesday; 7.30 pm at St Barnabas' Comm. Hall.

Contact Mrs. Pat Charles; Tel. 01284 396470 Broadwaters Ladies' Club - Mrs. Pam Hopkins; 3rd Wednesday, 7.30 pm at St Oswald's Church Centre Baby Fellowship - Thursdays, 10.00 am to 11.30 am at St Oswald's Church Centre.

Contact Joan Lambert; 07792 724909 St. Oswald's Flower Rota - Mrs. R. Hutchinson St. John’s, Wolverley Bellringers – Dave Andrews: Tel. 07867 977389 St. John’s, Wolverley Organist & Choir – Ian Thompson: Tel. 07855 609758 Wolverley Ladies Fellowship – Mary Waldron: Tel. 01562 851405 St. Peter’s, Cookley Bellringers – Andy Gray: Tel. 01562 850130 St. Peter’s, Cookley Organist & Choir - Paul Blackham: Tel. 01562 829352 Friends of St. Peter’s, Cookley – Marlene Broomhead: 01562 824743 Parish Web Site www.ismere.co.uk – email: office@ismere.co.uk The Ismere Messenger, page 40

Readers are invited to submit articles, letters and interesting discussion topics for possible inclusion in “The Messenger”. Please send your contributions to the compositor, or via the parish office.

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents of the Ismere Messenger, the editor and committee cannot take responsibility for any errors.

Editor in Chief Editorial Committee

The Rector Sheila Mason

Compositor (Compo)

Don Gilbert Kath L'Enfant Margaret Lillis Paul Blackham

01562 752268 e-mail sfmason1939@me.com 07919 837631 email:theismeremessenger@outlook.com

To advertise here, email Paul at:

HR Precision Performance “Prosperity through Negotiation” We tailor our HR Service to meet your needs and budget Call 01299 871272 today and book a free 30-minute HR Health-Check karen@hrprecisionperformance.co.uk

theismeremessenger@outlook.com

or ring: 01562 829352

– if you get the answerphone, please leave a message & I will return your call.

Pete Wall • • •

Thank you.

Services

Waste Carrier Licence : CB/CN5410KP www.petewallservices.co.uk

Rubbish Removal & Recycling Specialist Tree and Hedge Pruning Fencing

A Quick, Efficient Service Guaranteed !

Get in touch or a FREE QUOTE on 01299 405477 or 07956 172825 or email : petewallrecycling@talktalk.net

B. INCE FUNERAL DIRECTORS

(Incorporating G. Thomas & Son) 24 hour personal service

BANK HOUSE, BEWDLEY Tel: 01299 403105 and Kidderminster 822716

Member of SAIF Golden Charter Pre-paid funerals

LKA Cleaning • • • • • • •

Our services include:

Furniture Fitting Mopping & Vacuuming Kitchen Units & Worktops Cookers & Microwaves Refrigerators Windows (inside) Ironing

(£10 per hour) Nancy: 07837 675388 Paulina: 07909 441078 email: husseyp@sky.com

The Ismere Messenger, page 41

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

GCSE Science and Maths Tuition.

Qualified teacher £28/hr KS2 subjects Younger tutor £15/hr

Phone: 07771 602651 or email: Flying.Tutor@outlook.com

Rachel Clark Chiropodist Fully qualified and registered with the Health Professions Council CH17310 Visiting Chiropodist – professional footcare in the comfort of your home – 20 years experience For an appointment call

01384 873938 or 07860 771442

Selling fresh home grown & locally sourced fruit & veg, tipples, plants, cut flowers, meats, pies and cheeses.

Open 7 days a week

01562 822058

www.hodgehill-ltd.co.uk

Birmingham Road, Kidderminster, DY10 3NR

GTC Counselling www.gtccounselling.co.uk

Geoff T Cox MA MBACP (Accred)

47 Castle Road. Cookley, Kidderminster. DY10 3TE

01562 852145 Mob: 07949 326972 Face to Face, Email or Skype Counselling

I am a person centred counsellor therefore non-judgmental offering unconditional positive regard and acceptance. Clients are appreciated as individuals, regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, belief or age. I work with individuals, couples and young people.

Specialist areas: Addictive behaviours, Anger, Anxiety, Bereavement, Bullying, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/M.E., Depression, Eating disorders, Emotional difficulties, Fears, Loss Low self esteem, Low confidence, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Personal Development, Phobias, Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Self-awareness, Stress, Trauma, Work related issues, Relationships.

Relationship Issues: Partner/spouse, Family, Work (line managers/colleagues) I am a Prepare/Enrich practitioner (http://www.prepare-enrich.co.uk/) The Prepare Enrich programme helps couples prepare for marriage or enrich their relationship by taking stock of their strengths and weaknesses. With the help of trained facilitators they develop skills which are key to any relationship.

The Ismere Messenger, page 42

Kidderminster

01562 821600

www.doolittle-dalley.co.uk Estate House, Proud Cross Ringway, Kidderminster, DY11 6AE

Bridgnorth

01746 763336

www.doolittle-dalley.co.uk 46 West Castle Street, Bridgnorth, WV16 4AD

Partners: David Hall FRICS, Richard Hall FRICS, John Andrews FRICS. Associate: Tracy Hall MARLA.

The Ismere Messenger, page 43

KIDDERMINSTER HOLISTIC THERAPISTS

All Complementary Therapy treatments aim to activate the body’s own capacity for selfhealing, by treating the body as a whole, rather than treating the individual symptoms.

This approach aims to promote physical and emotional well-being. www.khtholistichealth.co.uk email: kht1@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 01562 851223 mob: 07779 042393

Evesons Fuels can keep you warm throughout the year whilst providing local, expert knowledge about heating oil and your heating oil needs.

• Friendly, prompt service • Emergency deliveries • Competitive prices • Budget payment plans • Boiler servicing • Tank replacement

For a local, fast, friendly service call our team on

Because you’re worth caring for ... ... inside and out.

Emma Coley BSc (Hons), M.Ch.S Health Professional Council Registered

Friendly and Professional Visiting Chiropodist For Complete Care of Your Feet Home Visiting Practice

Tel: 01562 862495 Mobile: 07976 242096 270 Stourbridge Road, Kidderminster, Worcs, DY10 2XJ The Ismere Messenger, page 44

The Ismere Messenger, page 45

Watertight Plumbing Services All plumbing jobs undertaken, free quotes no call out charge Contact Miles Bethell Mobile: 07941 479713 Home: 01562 750344 email: watertightplumbing09@ymail.com

Sue Marston

Lic.Ac., Dip.SM., M.F.H.T.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE ACUPUNCTURE & STRESS MANAGEMENT Professional and caring help for a wide range of conditions.

For further information or an appointment

Tel 01562 742628

www.suemarston.co.uk 189 Chester Road North, Kidderminster, DY10 1TN

The Ismere Messenger, page 46

The Ismere Messenger, page 47

Sarah's Mobile Hairdressing

Senior Citizens Only!

Fully Qualified....

If interested please call

07940 275533

The Cottage, Low Hill, Torton, Hartlebury, Worcs DY10 4HT office@catkinscattery.net www.catkinscattery.net Purpose Built Luxury Boarding Cattery for special guests

Tel: 01299 250472 www.johnthebuilder.info

PILATES WITH BEV I currently run classes at:

Wolverley Church Hall.

Thursdays @ 9.30am beginners and 7.00pm beginners

Auraveda, Kinver High Street

Tuesdays @ 10.30am, 2.15pm & 7.30pm beginners Wednesdays @10.30am & 7.15pm beginners

Foley School, Fairfield Drive, Kinver Wednesdays @ 4.30pm improvers and 5.45pm intermediate

Wall Heath Community Centre

Mondays @ 6.00pm beginners and 7.15pm improvers

bevlockett@btinternet.com

Website www.bevpilates.co.uk Or call 0778 777 5768

Based in Cookley, I offer a comprehensive building and design service for any size project – from a leaky tap to a new extension, and everything in between.      

Free, no obligation quotations Consistently high quality finish Fully insured Honest approach to my work If it doesn’t need fixing, I tell you Free advice

For a free, no obligation quotation, contact John on 01562 851322 or mobile 07941 484318 or email

Quote@johnthebuilder.info

The Ismere Messenger, page 48

Edwin Harris & Sons Ltd FUNERAL DIRECTORS

We are a well-established independent family run business Circa 1897 giving personal attention, serving you quietly, efficiently, professionally at 1, Crane Street, Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 6XT Kidderminster Office:

01562 822625 / 823570

Bewdley & Stourport on Severn:

01299 829873

email: contactus@edwinharris.co.uk or visit our website: www.edwinharris.co.uk

Customer Care Award Winners 2011 & 2013

... your local Village Store ...

37 SEBRIGHT ROAD WOLVERLEY KIDDERMINSTER DY11 5UA Tel: 01562 852288 Take part in shows, festival and medals

Full equity member as seen on TV shows such as Torchwood and Casualty

STAR PERFORMERS

Dance * Drama Wolverley Church Hall (St. John the Baptist),

Every Friday during Term Time Star Performers: Ages 7 and up (£5.00) - 4:45pm – 6:00pm Starlights: Ages 3 to 6 (£3.50) - 4:00pm – 4:45pm For more information and bookings

Contact: Lucy-Charlotte

Tel: (01562) 67203 Mobile: 07581 087030

The Therapy Room Wolverley Psychotherapy, Counselling, Mindfulness and Reiki.

Bereaved, separated, redundant, depressed, anxious, stressed?

Kate Spohrer MEd, NLP Master can help you go from where you are to where you want to be, putting you back in control and feeling empowered.

Initial discussion completely free of charge Call Kate on 07806 301328 or email katespohrer@hotmail.com www.attwood-bereavement.co.uk UKCP Trainee Psychotherapist Member

PAINTERS and DECORATORS

PHILL and SUE

Both Professional Painters and Decorators Interiors or Exteriors

Over 46 years experience between us

Phone 01562 747313 Mobile 07753 408578 Mobile 07853 206032

email: lucydancingqueen@yahoo.co.uk

The Ismere Messenger, page 49

Phil Connolly

VM

30 years experience.

City and Guilds qualified.

All work guaranteed and certified to part P regulations.

No job too big or small.

TAX RETURNS, ACCOUNTS, & REPAYMENT CLAIMS

Local Electrician living in Wolverley.

For a free no obligation quotation

Contact Phil on

01562 851361 or 07926 596308.

Fast efficient service – Competitive rate – 30 years experience – Local Call Vicky Deakin on Office 01562 777410

Mobile 07989 377848

Wolverley Sebright Cygnets Nursery

Based within Wolverley Sebright Primary School Flexible Half and Full Day Sessions Funding available for Three and Four Year Olds.

Two Year Olds also welcome Before and After School care

Call us on: 01562 851851 email on;

nursery@wolverleysebright.worcs.sch.uk

Look on website;

www.sebrightcygnetsnursery.co.uk Judged “Good” by Ofsted The Ismere Messenger, page 50

Nightingales Residential Home • Highest quality residential/long-term care, rehabilitation or respite care • Core philosophy values of; Privacy - Dignity - Independence - Choice • • • • • •

Fulfilment - Security - Respect – Equality

Magnificent 18th Century Grade II listed home situated in over 6 acres of beautifully maintained gardens and woodland All of our rooms offer either a private wash basin and toilet or full en-suite bathroom to ensure a level of independence and privacy.

Residents enjoy regular entertainment designed to bring fun in to every day life at the home A whole range of complementary services are available catering for the personal requirements of our residents Residents are encouraged to retain their individuality and to personalise their own rooms with their own belongings Caters for residents with special dietary requirements

For more information about the home, please call

01562 850201

Nightingales Homecare • Established first class reputation for providing exemplary domiciliary care throughout the local community • Highly trained, reliable staff offer continuity of care which is so important to elderly and vulnerable people • Tailor-made packages to address the needs of the client who may be an older person, an adult with learning and physical disabilities or someone with a degenerative or terminal condition • Care can include help with personal hygiene; medication; getting up and going to bed; assistance in meal preparation and feeding; accompanied shopping trips and appointments; even pet care • Experienced and enthusiastic staff adhere to strict standards of care. They are all “enhanced CRB” checked, friendly and motivated and undergo both in-house and external training To find out how Nightingales Homecare can help enrich your life, ring

01562 851738 for an informal, confidential chat.

Wolverley Court, Wolverley, Nr. Kidderminster, DY10 3RP www.nightingalesrh.co.uk Registered in England 5657952

The Ismere Messenger, page 51

An Independent Family Business at 41 The Old Woodyard, Hagley Hall, Hagley, DY9 9LQ

Eye Examinations Contact Lens Clinic Sunglasses Other optician’s prescriptions welcome Over 1000 frames on display; designer and budget.

MARK WILLIAMS MIPW PROFESSIONAL WILLWRITER “35 years legal experience as a retired Detective Superintendent and now a Private Client Lawyer, means you can definitely trust Mark to write your Will”.

Instructions taken in the comfort of your home – Trading Standards Approved.

Free NHS Spectacles Free NHS Sight Tests Private Sight Tests £22.50 Easy Parking

Wills from £69 per person Also Powers of Attorney, Probate & Care Home Fee Avoidance

www.hagleyeyecarestudio.co.uk

Telephone: 01299 251442 Mobile: 07966 053887

Home Visits Available Tel: 01562 887138

The Weavers shop CUSTOMERS OR BROWSERS ALWAYS WELCOME COME AND SEE

A fine selection of competitively priced carpets roll ends – discontinued colours and lines The Greenhill Trading Estate (Unit F), off Birmingham Road, Kidderminster, DY10 2RN

Tel: 01562 820680

Open 9-5 Monday – Friday - Own Car Park

KEEP UP WITH THE LOCAL NEWS! For People with Sight Loss Audio edition produced Weekly and Posted

FREE

to our Listeners

Call 0758 189 9977 www.wftn.org.uk Charity No. 509869

The Ismere Messenger, page 52

MOT Testing Station Diesel Testing Catalyst Testing

VICARAGE SERVICE GARAGE LTD ESTABLISHED 40 YEARS QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS

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SPECIAL FOR COOKLEY & SURROUNDING AREAS

FREE COLLECTION

BY THE BUSINESS PROPRIETOR NOW LIVING IN COOKLEY

FOR ALL YOUR MOTS ONLY £35.00 MOTS £30.00 (WITH A FULL SERVICE) SERVICING (FROM £49.95 + VAT) REPAIRS DIAGNOSTICS

PLEASE PHONE FOR FRIENDLY SERVICE ON 0121 559 1860 DAYTIME 0779 353 5988 ANYTIME

MOT Testing Station Diesel Testing Catalyst Testing

MOT Testing Station Diesel Testing Catalyst Testing

The Ismere Messenger, page 53

Charles A. Sherrey F.C.A.

The Lock Inn and Tearoom

Company Accounts

www.thelockwolverley.co.uk Relaxed Friendly Atmosphere Unwind in the Beautiful Tearoom Garden Quality Ales Regularly changing Home cooked Food Menu To enquire about individual parties/meetings etc

VAT & Payrolls

e-mail:andrew-bishop@hotmail.co.uk

Your Local Chartered Accountant Self-Assessment Tax Returns Sole Trader, Partnership &

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION COMPETITIVE FEES

Tel: 01562 850903 Falcons Rest, Fairfield Lane, Wolverley, DY11 5QJ

Hagley Clock Clinic Ltd Est: 1978

Repairs, restoration & servicing of antique & modern clocks and other mechanical devices.

Telephone: 01562 885080 www.hagleyclockclinic.co.uk

Tel: 01562 850581

theweddingrooms bridal – bridesmaid – groom • • • • • • • •

fantastic selection of bridal and bridesmaid dresses the curvaceous collection for sizes 18 and over the gowns to go collection for brides on a budget and in a hurry! fantastic selection of accessories large spacious private changing room in-house on-site alteration service friendly welcoming atmosphere with a truly professional service free large car park behind the store

www.theweddingrooms.com

First floor, 112-113 Bewdley Road Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 6RX

Tel: 01562 743551

TG Hardwicks, Wolverley, Nr. Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY10 3RW Tel: (01562) 850447 - Fax: (01562) 852257 www.hardwicks-landscape.co.uk The Ismere Messenger, page 54

What’s on & when – at a glance See inside for full details

2nd December

St. Barnabas’ Mothers Union Christmas Lunch

9th December

Broadwaters Ladies

12th December

Music & Mince Pies – St. Barnabas

14th December

Wolverley W.I. (Memorial Hall)

31st December

New Year’s Eve Party – St. Barnabas Community Hall

4th January

Wolverley W.I. (Church Hall)

6th January

St. Barnabas’ Mothers Union

13th January

St. Mary’s Ladies Fellowship

14th January

Wolverley DCC Meeting (Church Hall)

19th January

St. Barnabas’ Mothers Union Corporate Communion

20th January

Broadwaters Ladies

25th January

Wolverley Ladies Fellowship

26th January

St. Oswald’s DCC Meeting

27th January

St. Mary’s Ladies Fellowship

To assist in the timely publication of “The Messenger”, please submit any contributions by the date which will always be indicated in the preceding edition (although last-minute alterations will always try to be accommodated) preferably by email to : theismeremessenger@outlook.com or via the Parish Office.

(February/March 2016 deadline is 15th January) Your co-operation will be greatly appreciated.

The Ismere Messenger, page 55

The Ismere Messenger is published by Kidderminster Ismere Parochial Church Council Printed by Imprint Colour Limited, Aldershot, Hampshire 01252 330683 The Ismere Messenger, page 56