2017 08 09 aug sept (web version)

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

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

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

Tel: 01562 851744

Revd. Bridget Woodall (Day off - Friday) 50 Nursery Grove, Franche, DY11 5BG email: revbridget.woodall@gmail.com

Tel: 01562 743545

Revd. Canon 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 direct with the clergy of the church or at:The Parish Office (St. Mary’s Chantry) each Thursday 6.30 - 7.15pm Alternatively you may leave a message at The Parish Office: Tel: 01562 751923 or email: office@ismere.co.uk The Ismere Messenger, page 2

Letter from Bridget August/September 2017

Change and Transition…..

Dear friends, As I am writing this I am aware that I am still navigating, along with the parish, through a significant time of change. I have moved from Quarry Bank over to Kidderminster, only 10 or so miles but it’s so different over here to where I was used to.

There are many things about where I lived that I valued and inevitably in any time of change I long for the old ways of doing things. I have thought about this a lot, it’s not necessarily because the old way of doing things was better or more efficient, rather because, it was familiar and comfortable, the place I knew and loved.

However, I am gradually getting used to the way things work around here and the place and people are becoming more familiar, things feel less strange to me.

As a relatively new team of seven churches, one parish, I suspect we are still in a place of transition, the initial settling in and getting used to each other, different members of the clergy and staff team, team services, new clergy (Me!) It all takes time and adjustment and it can be a time when we hanker for how things used to be, more organised, you knew how your vicar did things and what to expect.

During the course of this year, we as clergy are working alongside the District Church Council’s and the Parochial Church Council, to endeavour to review the way we work, to look at processes and check their efficiency, to ask ourselves is this still the best way of doing things? It’s not just about efficiency though, it is also about trying to make it easier for people to approach and be involved with the church, being relevant in the 21st century.

For many, many years the parish has run a vestry system to handle all enquiries for weddings and christenings, this has involved people being asked to come to the parish office, based at St Mary’s on either Tuesday or Thursday evening at 6.30pm.

Whilst this worked years ago, we find now that most enquiries come either by telephone call or via the internet. Gradually the plan is for each member of the clergy team to book either a wedding or baptism preparation session for each person at the point of enquiry and locally to them, rather than ask someone to travel to the parish office.

Several things will need to change to make this possible and practical and efficient.

As clergy we need to change our approach, the old way of doing things. We need to develop a central paper based diary in the parish office to an electronic diary, which allows us access from home. We will move to a Church of England online booking The Ismere Messenger, page 3

system for weddings and Christenings. For some of us that will take us out of our comfort zones, but it will mean that we can be more efficient both with our time and with the people who are making the bookings.

From August you can book weddings and Christenings directly with the vicar, just call them or email (Details are in the front cover).

Rev Rose Lawley: St Mary’s and St Peter’s, Upper Arley.

Rev Nigel Taylor: St Peter’s, Cookley and St Oswald’s, Broadwaters.

Rev Bridget Woodall: St Barnabas, Franche and St John’s, Wolverley.

Rev Alex Vaccaro: Holy Trinity, Trimpley.

We will run vestry each Thursday for a time to ensure a smooth transition.

Please do pray and support us as we go through this process of change, remembering we do so, to help us to make the love of God known to those we meet and seek to serve.

Bridget.

Diary for August (please check the weekly Worship Notes & News for any last-minute changes)

1st 2nd 3rd

8.30am 10.00am 10.30am

6th

Transfiguration of Our Lord 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am Morning Prayer at St. Oswald’s 9.30am All Age Service at St. Barnabas 10.30am Morning Prayer at St. Mary’s 11.00am Holy Communion and Baptism at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Holy Communion and Baptism at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley 6.30pm Service at St. Mary’s

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

8th 9th 10th

8.30am 10.00am 10.30am

13th

9th Sunday after Trinity [Proper 14] 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

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

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10.30am 11.00am 11.00am 6.30pm 15th

16th 17th

Holy Communion at St. Mary’s All Age Service at St. John’s, Wolverley Morning Prayer at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley Healing Service at St. John’s, Wolverley

The Blessed Virgin Mary 8.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 10.30am Mothers’ Union Corporate Communion at St. Barnabas 10.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley

20th

10th Sunday after Trinity [Proper 15] 8.00am Morning Prayer at St. Mary’s 9.30am All Age Service at Holy Trinity St. Peter’s, Cookley join St. Oswald’s 9.30am Holy Communion and Baptism at St. Oswald’s 9.30am Morning Prayer at St. Barnabas 10.30am Holy Communion and Baptism 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 Service at Holy Trinity, Trimpley

22nd 23rd 24th

8.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 10.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley Bartholomew the Apostle 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley

27th

11th Sunday after Trinity [Proper 16] 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am Morning Prayer at Holy Trinity 9.30am Holy Communion and Baptism at St. Peter’s, Cookley St. Oswald’s join St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am Holy Communion and Baptism at St. Barnabas 10.30am Holy Communion and Baptism at St. Mary’s 11.00am Morning Prayer at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Morning Prayer at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley There is no Evening Service this week

29th

Beheading of John the Baptist 8.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 10.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley

30th 31st

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Diary for September (please check the weekly Worship Notes & News for any last-minute changes)

3rd

12th Sunday after Trinity [Proper 17] 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am Morning Prayer at St. Oswald’s 9.30am All Age Service at St. Barnabas 10.30am Morning Prayer at St. Mary’s 11.00am Holy Communion and Baptism at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Holy Communion and Baptism at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley 6.30pm Iona Service at Holy Trinity, Trimpley

5th 6th 7th 8th

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

10th

13th Sunday after Trinity [Proper 18] 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 All Age Service at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Morning Prayer at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley 6.30pm Service at St. Mary’s

12th 13th 14th

8.30am 10.00am 10.30am

17th

14th Sunday after Trinity [Proper 19] 8.00am Morning Prayer 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 and Baptism at St. Oswald’s 9.30am Morning Prayer at St. Barnabas 10.30am Holy Communion and Baptism at St. Mary’s 11.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley There is no Evening Service this week

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

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19th 19th 20th 21st 22nd

8.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 10.30am Mothers’ Union Corporate Communion at St. Barnabas 10.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley Next edition of “The Messenger” published

On Sunday the 24th September both St. Barnabas and St. John's Churches will have no road access to them as a charity bike ride will mean the roads are closed between 7.30am & 2.00pm. You may want to check out the route and see if you can attend another of our church services.

We are planning a Special Songs of Praise style service. Both churches will vote for their favourite hymn, which will be sung and others from each church will choose their favourite hymn and say what it means to them, we will all then sing the hymn. There will be Tea and Cake beforehand to give chance to spend time getting to know one another. It is a great opportunity to invite friends and family to. We have planned it so it will still be light we hope when we leave. Please do consider coming along and bringing a friend.

24th

15th Sunday after Trinity [Proper 20] 8.00am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 9.30am Morning Prayer at Holy Trinity 9.30am Holy Communion and Baptism at St. Peter’s, Cookley 9.30am Holy Communion at St. Oswald’s No Service at St. Barnabas 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s No Service at St. John’s, Wolverley 11.00am Morning Prayer at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley 4.00pm Tea & Cakes followed by 5.00pm Songs of Praise at St. John’s, Wolverley

26th 27th 28th 29th

8.30am Holy Communion at St. Mary’s 10.00am Holy Communion at St. John’s, Wolverley 10.30am Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Cookley Michael and All Angels

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From the Parish Registers Baptisms 7th May 7th May 7th May 14th May 21st May 21st May 11th June 18th June 25th June 25th June 25th June

Seren Rose TENNANT at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley Harry Mark WARD-STEAD at St. John’s, Wolverley Finley Colin HAYWOOD at St. John’s, Wolverley Sam Daniel George YEATS at St. Mary’s George Martin HAMMOND at St. Mary’s Harrison Leo BINNION at St. Mary’s Freddie Alexander ROSS at St. Barnabas Finley Jax HARRIA at St. Barnabas Preston Wayne Eliot Sam WILKES at St. Peter’s, Cookley Amylee Sonia GAMBLE at St. Peter’s, Cookley Katy Christina WARD at St. Mary’s

Weddings 6th May 6th May 6th May 13th May 26th May 27th May 3rd June 3rd June 24th June 24th June

Stuart James CLARKE and Lucy Hannan HUGHES at St. Mary’s Andrew Guy BROOKES and Kirsty Michelle MAJOR at St. Peter’s, Upper Arley Daniel Paul POOLER and Kelsey ROBERTS at St. Mary’s Lyndon James Joseph JACKSON and Lyndsey CAPEWELL at St. Barnabas Richard Stuart COLLINS and Alison Sarah WILLIAMS at St. John’s, Wolverley Daniel Lee BRADLEY and Jodie HANCOCKS at St. Mary’s Luke James Anthony WHITE and Helen Laura MACKIE at St. Barnabas Glenn John THOMPSON and Francesca Liliana PIAZZA at St. Peter’s, Cookley Joshua Phillip HILL and Abigail PERKINS at St. Mary’s Sam James FERN and Kimberley Jade BLUEMAN at St. Barnabas

Funerals 5th May 5th May 8th May 11th May 16th May

Maureen Anne MARTIN (80) at Wyre Forest Crematorium Edward ELIOT at Wyre Forest Crematorium James Arthur Nathaniel PAGET (82) at Wyre Forest Crematorium Kenneth John BUTLER (83) at St Mary's Frederick Norman JENNINGS (94) at St. John’s, Wolverley The Ismere Messenger, page 8

17th May 19th May 25th May 26th May 30th May 30th May 31st May 31st May 1st June 2nd June 7th June 14th June 14th June 15th June 15th June 16th June 21st June 23rd June 27th June 28th June

Winifred KITCHEN (85) at Wyre Forest Crematorium Irene Phyllis HALL (95) at Wyre Forest Crematorium Patricia DARBY (86) at St. Barnabas Doreen WOLSTENHOLME (92) at St. John’s, Wolverley Raymond POTTER at St. John’s, Wolverley Keith David ROBINSON (80) at St. John’s, Wolverley Wendy BOOTH (56) at Wyre Forest Crematorium Anthony DOVEY (71) at Stourbridge Crematorium Frank BURTON (89) at St. John’s, Wolverley Judith BARBER (53) at St. Peter’s, Cookley Graham Harry HAVELL (84) at St. Mary’s Neil Mark ANDERSON (49) at St. John’s, Wolverley Francis Terry THOMAS (66) at Wyre Forest Crematorium Leslie GARDINER (92) at Holy Trinity, Trimpley Olwen COSTELLO (89) at Wyre Forest Crematorium Edna Kathleen HICKMAN (90) at St. Peter’s, Cookley Margaret Rose BRITTAN (86) at Stourbridge Crematorium Peter MEESE (80) at Wyre Forest Crematorium Warren Lawson JONES (74) at St. John’s, Wolverley June DAVIES (87) at St. John’s, Wolverley

Interment of Ashes 6th May 10th May 10th May 15th May 17th May 17th May 18th May

Raymond COLLOFF at St. John’s, Wolverley Graham Arthur BOTTEREELL at St. John’s, Wolverley Ross Charles GIBBONS at Kidderminster Cemetery Ron McCORKINDALE at Kidderminster Cemetery Betty SHEPHERD at Kidderminster Cemetery Betty STOCKTON at St. John’s, Wolverley Sylvia CHILDE at St. Peter’s, Cookley

Help Wanted Christian lady living in Harvington Close, Franche, needs help with housework.

Being disabled, she can no longer do all that she would like about the house.

Can you help!!!

Phone Barbara on 01562 632172 The Ismere Messenger, page 9

News & Views From Trimpley Church of The Holy Trinity News from Holy Trinity, Trimpley The Church and location of Holy Trinity, Trimpley is lovely at any time of year but at the moment, in the height of Summer, the views are simply wonderful - a real reward for managing the little hill! Mind you, the little hill can seem a lot bigger when carrying bottles of water and crates containing all the necessaries for the refreshments after each Service, so our small team of “Coffee Volunteers” (an especial ‘thank you’ to Sue Thompson for now taking care of refreshments after each of our Communion Services) are pleased that we are looking into the possibility of having a small kitchen.

Lots of different things for furthering the life and ministry of Holy Trinity are being discussed at the “Moving Forward Together” meetings that we have each quarter and we have set up a Fundraising Team to continue the work started by the popular biennial Summer Fêtes and more recently the Coffee Mornings.

We are so pleased to now be under the pastoral care of Reverend Alex and with her we have enjoyed the peace of Iona style Services as well as more recently, an uplifting evening Communion on Ascension Day. Of course this means we also get the added bonuses of Fil and Jack and so have stocked up on the dog biscuits (for Jack, in case you're wondering!).

Our recent Patronal Service with Rector Rose, was a celebratory occasion and we continue to have lots to celebrate here at Holy Trinity as our Church Community is blessed not only with people who have worshipped here for many years but also with those who are newer to the area.

If you would like to be kept up to date on all our Services and events, please follow us on Facebook @HolyTrinityTrimpley or email Jane to be put on the mailing list at twigglet2@btinternet.com The next “Moving Forward Together” meeting will follow on from the Harvest Thanksgiving Service on Sunday 8th October, so please do come along to one or both and put the date in your diary.

Kath Sandland

A Note from Val Corfield The last few weeks have shown us that we do have many highs & lows in life.

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I had a certificate for serving 25 years as a volunteer for Kemp (5 years in the hospice and 25 years in the shop) – all enjoyed very much.

We go on holiday tonight with a family member – it was a Christmas present from them.

Then, this week our beautiful great-granddaughter has been in (and still is in) intensive care. She is 10 months old and has a deadly disease that only one person a year gets. How is this possible? I’m afraid that I have been asking God – Why? I’ve just heard that she is opening her eyes but she will be in hospital for some time to come.

Val Corfield

From Wolverley Parish Church of St. John the Baptist

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

St. John the Baptist, Wolverley

LIGHT UP THE CHURCH [See page 14] 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 News from St John the Baptist, Wolverley Following criminals having yet another go to steal lead from the church, and which resulted in roofs requiring immediate attention, we do thank Dave Howl (Ridge Roofing Services) for attending to this work so quickly.

We are pleased to report that the “Zig Zag Path” from the village up to the church has now reopened. Work was undertaken by the Parish Council to make secure and safe together with appropriate signage attached.

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A Tombola Stall was held at this year’s Carnival and we made in excess of £400.00.

We have to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Jane Palmer who was completely in charge and carried out all of the work involved before the actual day. We also thank the “lads” who helped put up and dismantle the Gazebo and to the “lassies” who helped during the day.

Unfortunately, due to a very large branch falling from the Horse Chestnut tree in the churchyard and being told by

experts that the tree was unsafe and if left unattended would fall of its own accord in less than 6 weeks, sadly the tree had to come down. We thank Nathan Turvey, Tree Surgery and Land Management Contractor for putting other work on hold and dealing with the felling and removal of the tree so quickly.

Our priority was to keep visitors safe and also the many memorials situated in the churchyard.

Woverley CofE Secondary School held their “Leavers” service in church on 26th June and Heathfield Knoll School held their “Founders Day” service on 30th June.

Richard and Cynth

Oft Wondered “Smile, it could be worse” It is, unfortunately, true that the statement “Smile, it could be worse” is most likely followed by the response “I did -- and it was”. Recent months seem to have been awful for so many people in so many ways and there is a general gloom hanging around.

What defines us and our values is how we react to this environment. We can engage with the problems, however difficult, or we can ignore them and retreat into a “virtuous” closet. Many religions and even some Christian sects turn inward and tell themselves that, so long as they are good to the other members of their sect and follow strict church ritual, they will be saved whilst the rest of the world becomes dammed.

Fortunately, the dear C of E, with all its wavering, argument and “liberal” ways, is not like that. We are inclusive, not exclusive. The big problems are our problems and we are taught to be the good Samaritan and not ignore those not of our The Ismere Messenger, page 12

particular church. Yes, we support our own but together we help wherever and whoever is in need. It is by our actions that we show our faith, not by showing our superiority in our exclusive club but following the example and teachings of our leader.

Attack is often the best form of defence. If the world is a mess, do something, anything, to make it better. Retreating behind the sofa, the castle walls or the church doors should be only as a temporary action to regain our strength for the fight outside.

It is worth remembering that we are each given some talent to use for the benefit of all. We should not “hide it under a bushel” or keep ourselves and our activities hidden inside our church building. In these hard times there is plenty to do.

When the going gets tough, we should get going.

David Alexander

Wolverley Parish Church 100 Club – winning numbers May 1st Prize 2nd Prize 3rd Prize June 1st Prize 2nd Prize 3rd Prize

Number Number Number

2 24 27

£24.00 £14.40 £9.60

Number Number Number

35 10 5

£24.00 £14.40 £9.60

Congratulations to all winners. If you would like to join the 100 Club, application forms are available from the church or contact Cynthia Partridge on 01562 829352.

Thank you

Wolverley W.I. A very talented artist-Christine Westwood, was our speaker in June. She demonstrated 'One - Stroke Painting, amazingly, sometimes with three colours on her brush at the same time. Christine had learnt her craft in U.S.A and used it to make cards and decorate glass and pottery. The picture she painted during the meeting was of roses, wisteria and daisies, and Christine kindly donated it to us July always used to see us on a Summer walk, but, this has given way to just a supper! But, it was a most enjoyable one- hot dogs and salad, followed by desserts and cake. Whilst eating we pondered on a quiz, devised by Sue. An adventure story with gaps where the answers were all football teams. Yes, I know, but it was amazing how many were remembered!

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Sue gave us a full account of her day at the A.G.M - this year in Liverpool. Both of the resolutions were passed.

Sally was thrilled to announce that we had made a very good profit at the Carnival, when we had served refreshments. Wonderful array of cakes! She had also done well with her homemade Tombola, and Sue had helped her at the car boot sale.

Another success! Judy, our treasurer, had a big smile on her face.

We were so pleased to hear the news of Bella. She and husband, Russell have had a little boy-James. This is not a celebration we have very often - a W.I. member having a baby. Come on you young ones, give us a chance to knit!

The meeting on 7th August is a fish and chip supper. If your name is not on the list, you need to let Carol know (leave a message or e-mail) A.S.A.P! In September we will welcome Bella's father, Mr. Craddock, who will give us a talk on his travels New members and visitors are always welcome – 1st Monday in the month, 7.30 in the Church Hall. Ring me, Beryl 01562 850172 for any further details.

Beryl Berry

CHURCH FLOODLIGHTING SPONSORSHIP So far this year, the scheme has raised £170 for church funds JULY 13th Jan Bridges, never forgotten th 28 Jan Bridges, never forgotten AUGUST 7th In memory of my dear husband Roy on your birthday. Ann Whittaker th 13 In memory of someone special. Jan Bridges SEPTEMBER 1st Birthday memories of Sid Lacey Sincere thanks to all who have contributed (and continue to contribute).

Your support is so much appreciated, Shirley.

So as to avoid disappointment it would be really helpful if supporters of this scheme could contact Shirley and give their list of required dates for the whole year – donations can be made as each date arrives. Thank you.

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From Kidderminster Parish Church of St. Mary and All Saints Dear Friends, I am delighted to have been asked to write a piece for your magazine. I am equally grateful for the kind invitation to conduct a service and preach at the 10.30am service at St. Mary’s Church on 13th August. Returning to Kidderminster will be a very special for me.

I arrived as a 23-year-old curate, 38 years ago to serve in the St. Mary’s Team Ministry of four parishes. Stoney Lane became my home for the three-year curacy with Ian Griggs. Being so young I suspect one or two people thought I was in the youth group! However, I had already gained much life experience having worked in St. George’s Hospital, London and in some of the poorest places in London and Nottingham.

Within minutes of being ordained in Worcester Cathedral I found myself with a very full diary (that I still possess) as the Vicar set me to work. Personal gratitude to Ian for the solid grounding in parochial ministry that he gave me – I still use a version of his marriage booking form to this day!

Significant memories remain of my time in Kidderminster, which I will perhaps save for my sermon on the 13th August. Nevertheless, a key event was the time I had arranged an ecumenical youth walk to the village of Rock. We had a rock band ready to play for us as we all arrived. As we set off we all wore badges with the words “I’m on the Rock” (of Christ). I remember little of the day, except that I walked the ten miles alongside another youth worker who later became my wife!

Margaret was nursing in Lea Castle Hospital and as I left Kidderminster in 1982, we were married and moved to St. John’s Church in Woking.

Since then we have had two children – Sean and Fiona. Sean is married with our first grandchild and is a Creative Director in London, and Fiona, who is a wellknown DJ in Brighton.

After Woking I was appointed as a Chaplain at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London. It was good to return to London and the world of chaplaincy. Parish appointments followed in Nottingham and Basingstoke. In 1993 I became the fulltime Chaplain for the Treloar School and College in Hampshire. Treloars is a special school and college for people with complex disabilities, employing 750 staff for 300 students. Undoubtedly, living amongst so many amazing people was the highlight of my experience in ministry. Meanwhile, Margaret was a special needs School Nurse in Alton and Bordon. It was a challenging but rewarding time and I The Ismere Messenger, page 15

learned so much from the young people at Treloars, many of whom had progressive conditions.

After 16 years at Treloars I became the Canon for Education and Learning for Southwell Cathedral in Nottingham and the Chaplain for the Minster Secondary School. Living in a cathedral was a privilege although something of a culture shock!

Meanwhile Margaret was nursing full-time in the Rainbows Hospice in Loughborough.

Returning to Parochial Ministry we lived in St. Columb Major near Newquay in Cornwall. I looked after four parishes that embraced both the wealth and beauty of the coast but also the extremes of poverty inland.

After four years we chose to return to Hampshire to be much nearer our recently born grandson. We live in Medstead, and Margaret is nursing at the Naomi House and Jacksplace Children’s’ Hospice.

And so here we are – 38 years on from arriving in Kidderminster. Still smiling, still playing the guitar, still looking after four parishes, and very much looking forward to sharing our faith journeys where it all began on the 13th August.

Blessings, Canon Ed Pruen

St. Mary’s Flower Rota st

1 August 20th August 3rd September 17th September 28th September

Mr. D. Canning Miss Muriel Owen and Mrs. Ann Lloyd Mrs. Peggy Guest Mr. Roy Bullock and Mrs. Andrea Milnes Mrs. Sue Bullock

St. Mary’s Ladies Fellowship We have enjoyed a real variety of speakers and evenings recently. Robin Skerratt came and talked to us about his (and Marie’s) “Adventures with their 1933 Austin Motor Car” nicknamed “The Toy” which he subsequently brought to The Friends of St Mary’s Open Day for all to view and admire - what a treat! Susan Smith enlightened us about Parkinsons and the support groups available for both sufferers and their carers. This was really interesting and informative - they do excellent work. Marie Skerratt was unable to come and talk to us about her (and Robin’s) “Exchange to America” as she was poorly. We wish her a speedy recovery and hope that she will be able to be with us later in the year. In her stead, Penny Stack kindly entertained with “Who Am I? Why am I Famous?” which was great fun. Most recently we have enjoyed our “Teddy Bears Picnic” when members were The Ismere Messenger, page 16

accompanied by their bears of all ages, colours, and sizes who they talked about and, of course, there was food!

We are now looking forward to hearing about Emily Preece’s “Life in Saudia Arabia” and to our Summer Lunch at Bewdley Pines Golf Club following which our programme continues as follows: Wednesday 9th August - “From Berlin to Kidderminster” with Loree Napier Wednesday 23rd August - “The Royal Hunters Walk” with Alan Bradley Wednesday 13th September - AGM with Bring & Buy Wednesday 27th September - “Kidderminster Streets” with Chris Wilder Meetings commence at 7.30 p.m. and are held in St Mary’s Chantry.

Visitors and new members always welcome.

For any queries regarding the Fellowship, please contact either myself (01384 896798) or Ann Stephenson, Programme Secretary, on 01562 639535.

Sue Coombes; Chairman

Heritage Weekend - 9th & 10th September

T

HE BELLRINGERS will be opening the tower on the Saturday for visitors to see the bell chamber and bells and to admire the views from the top of the tower.

Many thanks, Sue Geens St. Mary's Kidderminster Ringing Master

The Friends of St. Mary’s Kidderminster Our ‘Open Day’ on the Saturday of Friends’ Weekend; 17th/18th June, made possible by the support and goodwill of many, was truly blessed with glorious weather and many visitors, for which we give sincere thanks.

On Friends’ Sunday Rev. Rose delivered a poignant service which culminated in a choir led procession for the interment of The Reverend Dorothy’s cremated remains in the churchyard. This was a most appropriate day on which to have the interment (Continued on page 20) The Ismere Messenger, page 17

Our Congratulations to Jess

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and James (Mr. & Mrs. Bradley)

(photos: Janice Gillam)

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(Continued from page 17) for Dorothy, a former Vice-Chairman, was passionate about ‘The Friends’, and we were grateful for her relatives’ agreement and presence.

We now look forward to welcoming former curate, The Rev. Canon Edward Pruen and his wife, Margaret, on Sunday, 13th August. Canon Ed will Preside and Preach at the 10.30 a.m. Eucharist, which will be followed by a Bring-and-Share lunch.

Whether you remember Edward, or not, you will be most welcome to join us for worship and/or the lunch. There are lists at the back of St. Mary’s Church with suggested menu donations.

There is still time to book for our afternoon excursion to St. Leonard’s Church and the Beauchamp Alms-houses at Newland, near Malvern on Saturday, 30th September, as described in detail in the June/July edition of “The Ismere Messenger”. Booking Forms are available in St. Mary’s Church, or telephone Sue Coombes on 01384 896798 who will be pleased to send one to you.

Iris Baggott (Secretary)

From Cookley Parish Church of St. Peter Cookley Parish Church 100 Club – winning numbers May 1st Prize 2nd Prize 3rd Prize

Number Number Number

5 9 14

£24.00 £14.40 £9.60

June 1st Prize 2nd Prize 3rd Prize

Number Number Number

48 2 13

£23.50 £14.10 £9.40

Congratulations to all winners.

If you would like to join the 100 Club, application forms are available from the church or contact Paul Blackham on 01562 829352.

Thank you

News from St. Peter's, Cookley th

On Saturday 8 July we held our annual Garden Party. The weather was kind to us so we were able to hold it on the Church lawn and we had a very enjoyable afternoon raising just over £700. This total includes the raffle of a beautiful quilt The Ismere Messenger, page 20

made by Liz Duke.

The doors to our Stoke hole (our very useful storage space), were vandalised a few weeks ago and although a temporary repair has been done to make them secure we are hoping to replace them with more substantial solid oak ones. We have been promised a very generous donation towards them from the Cookley Social Club.

We are also hoping to replace our very old, dilapidated notice board and site it nearer to the fence so that it can be seen more easily.

It looks like a busy time ahead for us.

Jackie and Marlene

Thanksgiving Service at St. Peter’s, Church On behalf of the Aylmer Lodge/Cookley Partnership, I would like to thank all those who attended the service on 25 th June.

Thanks also go to Revd. Nigel Taylor for leading the service, Ian Thompson at the organ, the choir, and also our soloist Margaret Peters.

Special thanks go to Paul Blackham for printing the Service Sheets for us.

Barbara Pugh

A Service of Thanksgiving at St Peter's Church, Cookley On Sunday 25th June 2017 at 3pm a rather different service took place when we met to give thanks for Cookley Health Centre which is a part of the Aylmer Lodge Partnership, Kidderminster.

Revd. Nigel Taylor conducted the service which began with an opening prayer followed by the hymn, LORD OF ALL HOPEFULNESS. The Old Testament reading, Leviticus 13 vv. 1-8 and New Testament reading Luke 17 vv. 11-19 were then read, followed by the hymn AMAZING GRACE. Revd. Nigel, in his address, spoke of the wonderful convenience of our present Surgery with a Pharmacy located in the same building, in the centre of Cookley for people living here in Cookley.

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The Work of both the Surgery here and at Aylmer Lodge was spoken about by Jayne Barraclough (Practice Manager) after a superb, solo sung by the very popular Margaret Peters. Prayers took place with a thought-provoking prayer compiled by Barbara Pugh. The final hymn - GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS was followed by the blessing.

This service concerning our wonderful Surgery facilities here in Cookley brought back memories of my early days of living in Cookley, some 63 years ago, as a newly married person living with my husband in the family house called "Corona" built in 1911. On Tuesdays and Thursdays each week between the hours of 4pm and 6pm I had to draw a curtain thus separating our living quarters, so that the two front rooms of “Corona” could be used as a Surgery and waiting room for Cookley patients to be treated by two doctors called Dr. Murphy and Dr. Phipps who visited from Kinver, Staffs.

Our Cookley Surgery, now with a Pharmacy, are STILL in this same house! Gwen Palmer, now 104 years old, remembers fetching prescriptions from the pharmacy in Kinver and also pushing babies in their prams to the Clinic in Kinver along with other young mothers.

Betty Caswell.

The Friends of St. Peter's Church In June we held our annual strawberry teas. For once the weather was kind to us and we were able to hold it in the church grounds. We did 80 strawberry teas and with the help of our plant sale and ‘Garden’ themed raffle we made a profit of £650.00. Our thanks go to John Partridge from Highdown Nurseries who donated a lovely variety of plants for our plant stall. My grateful thanks go also to Nigel, his daughter’s boyfriend Josh and my daughter Denise for putting up the tent, gazebos and tables in extremely hot conditions, and then of course having to stay to take them all down again! Many thanks too for all the helpers on the day and last but not least all the people who support us.

Dave Jones has been busy painting the railings either side of the lych gate so we now have a lovely looking entrance to the church path. He is now continuing his good work by mending and painting the benches in the churchyard which he does each year for us.

We have now received the faculties for moving the altar in the Lady Chapel and also for laying a path round the church to the water tap so work will shortly commence on these items.

Next Saturday is our annual summer trip to Llandudno so we are hoping for fine weather so everyone can enjoy the day.

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Future Church events 14th October Harvest Supper at Cookley Village Hall 7pm 21st October Autumn Fayre at Cookley Village Hall 2pm to 4pm th 25 November Church Christmas Bazaar at Cookley Village Hall 2pm to 4pm 2nd December ‘Friends’ Christmas shopping trip to Liverpool. Book with Pam Poxon 01562 850971 Marlene Broomhead 01562 824743

Fuller's Funnies.

After being married for 30 years a wife asked her husband to describe her. He looked at her slowly......then said "You're A.B.C.D.E.F.G.H.I.J.K." she asked "what does that mean?"

He said "Adorable, Beautiful, Cute, Delightful, Elegant, Foxy, Gorgeous, Hot," she smiled happily and said "Oh, that is lovely, but what about I.J.K..?"

He said "I'm just kidding!"

His eye is still swollen....but it will get better......

Murphy told Quinn that his wife was driving him to drink.

Quinn thinks Murphy is very lucky because his own wife makes him walk.

Eileen

Smile Line A mother was watching her four year-old son playing outside in a small plastic pool half-filled with water. He was walking back and forth across the pool with an expression of great concentration on his face, and making big splashes.

Suddenly, the little boy stopped, stepped out of the pool, and with a look of disgust, began to scoop water out of the pool with a pail. “What’s wrong, dear?" asked the mother.

"My teacher said Jesus walked on water, but this water doesn't work," he replied.

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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.

More details from Jackie on 01562 751435 News from St. Barnabas We held a successful plant sale, in fact we ran out of plants! We made £429, and we donated 10% to Christian Aid. Luckily the weather was kind to us! Barrie's Quiz Night which was held on 3rd June, was very successful and we all enjoyed the fish and chips! We held a lunch celebrating our Patronal Festival on 11th June and it was nice to welcome our friends from St. John's in Wolverley. We have decided to donate the profit made from the lunch to the Reverend Pat Blanchard, who runs the Shalom Centre in Peru. We held a Craft Fayre & Strawberry Teas on 8th July; the scones & strawberries went down very well and we made a good profit! The stalls didn't do very well - we need more support from the people of Franche! We now look forward to Arley Fair on August Bank Holiday and we are asking our congregation for bottles (full!) and items for our produce stall. All for now.

Janice Gillam

St. Barnabas Mother’s Union On 24th May the Kidderminster and Stourport Deanery, held the annual service at St. Barnabas Church, was well attended and enjoyed by all who came. Thanks to Bridget for her assistance with the preparation.

In June we had a very enjoyable strawberry tea at Freda’s and then in July we enjoyed a summer lunch at the Three Crowns.

There will be no meeting in August.

On 6th September we are pleased to welcome the Reverend Nigel Taylor as our speaker at 14 Woodland Avenue - 2 o’clock.

Corporate communion will be on Tuesday 15th August and Tuesday 19th September.

Please note the new time of 10.30a.m. at St. Barnabas church followed by coffee and biscuits.

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

Chris Lewis The Ismere Messenger, page 24

From Broadwaters Church of St. Oswald St. Oswald’s News St. Oswald's once again supported the Christian Aid house-to-house collection during the week 14-21 May. Despite only having five collectors, we raised £372 which was an excellent achievement. My grateful thanks to those who did collect.

Broadwaters Methodist Church held their usual Coffee Morning for Christian Aid on Saturday 20th raising just over £400, so, from the L.E.P., we were not far short of our usual £800 raised. Also on Saturday 20th May, the Friends of Broadwaters held their annual plant sale in the park and had a successful morning.

On Pentecost Sunday, 4th June, we held an L.E.P. Praise on the Green service. The weather was a little "iffy", causing some concern before the 3pm start. After some deliberation, it was decided to go indoors for the service, which proved to be a wise decision as it did rain during the service. A good number attended and we enjoyed tea and cake afterwards. Thanks to Nigel, Nick and Richard for the music.

Also on Pentecost Sunday we celebrated the 90th birthday (a week early) of Ted Withers. Ted has attended St. Oswald's for many years and he was presented with a hip flask (+ contents!) to use on his forthcoming adventure. Ted is a veteran of the Tank Regiment and, together with a former colleague, he plans to visit France in November, to attend a commemoration event at Cambrai to mark the centenary of the first major tank battle of World War 1 in 1917. I'm sure the battlefield sites will be a bit nippy in November, hence our present. The photo shows Rita presenting Ted with his gift Wednesday 7th June saw the Reception Class from the School come to St. Oswald's for a short service, mainly concerned with getting to know your church. The children were very attentive and gave some well-informed answers to Nigel's questions about what they could see in the building. I think the best response came The Ismere Messenger, page 25

when Nigel pointed to the font and asked, "What's this? and one reply came as " a bin?"!

Broadbands A new venture this year, organised by the Friends of Broadwaters, was Broadbands.

This was an afternoon of live music performed by local people, including pop, folk and easy-listening, compered by Mike Lewis. This was excellent entertainment, enjoyed by a healthy crowd relaxing by the mill pool. Hopefully, this may become an annual event.

Broadwaters Fair was held on 24th June, when we had our usual stall of miscellany, i.e. bric-a-brac. Once again the day proved to be a lovely occasion, with a true community spirit being shown, made even better with good weather. Our thanks to Colin Hill and the Harkaway Scouts for their organisation.

Coffee Friday. This continues to be successful, with an average of 20-25 attending each week, the greater proportion being from the local community, which is very pleasing. It is marketed as a community event, although, of course, anyone is welcome. We have been recognised as a Place of Welcome, under the national scheme, becoming the first church in the Diocese to be given this status. Don't forget, we open every Friday, 11.00 - 12.30pm so please come along and see us. We were very pleased to welcome, on 30th June, a family of four from Leeds. They were en-route to Devon on holiday, avoiding all motorways, and drove along Wolverhampton Road, saw the A-board on the path, and decided to call in! You never know who might walk through the door next!

Brian Murkett

Opinion in 1950 Quite recently a copy of the St. Oswald's Magazine was passed on to me, not in itself particularly noteworthy, but this issue was dated October 1950, i.e. 67 years ago, so, naturally, I glanced through it and several things made me take note.

Firstly, the Sunday services listed. At that time, St. Oswald's was a parish on it's own, with it's own vicar, who then was Canon Ayres. Sunday services were: 8 a.m.

Holy Communion, 9 a.m. Sung Communion, 11 a.m. Morning Prayer, 11 a.m.

Sunday School, 4. p.m. Baptisms, (1st. and 3rd. Sundays), 6.30 p.m. Evening Prayer, also with a Wednesday Holy Communion at 9.30 a.m. That is 4 or 5 services each Sunday!

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Secondly, the Church related weekly activities included Girl Guides, Brownies, Girls' Friendly Society, Men's Fellowship, Boys' Brigade, Youth Club, Junior Choir Practice and full Choir Practice, with Mother's Union held fortnightly. Also, it was hoped to re-commence Life Boys in the near future. Things are a little different today!

Most of the articles were national publications, the lead article being entitled "The Layman and the Church", an extract from a book entitled "World Dominion" by an industrialist and leading Church of England layman named George Goyder. In this article, Goyder is clearly convinced that the Church has to change to combat the decline in church-going and that the layman (i.e. laity) must play an increased role if this decline is to be halted. Also, the role of parents is vital . He says, "When parents no longer set an example of regular church-going to their children, how are children to be expected to learn the elementary facts of the Christian faith?" The 1944 Education Act provided a compulsory daily service of worship for all children in State schools but Goyder says, "It is still a poor substitute for the teaching and example of professing Christian parents. The value of a corporate religious service for children conducted by a teacher who may not be a Christian and whose Christian knowledge may be defective is, to say the least, dubious. The fact that clergymen are barred from teaching in our State schools shows the muddled condition of our thinking on the subject. A Christian minister is not permitted to teach History or English in State schools, but an atheist or Communist may conduct a service of religious worship for his pupils!"

That indeed is a real talking point.

Goyder also mentions the problem of maintaining the clergy. He says, "Since 1938 (i.e. 12 years ago) the cost of living in England has risen by 84%. In that period the average wage of male workers rose from £3 10s (£3.50p) to £7. a week; those of the Anglican clergy from £8 to £9 a week. Thus the real income of the workers has risen by 16% in a decade, while that of the clergy has fallen by 72%. Today our clergy can no longer live on their stipends. From now on the average Anglican incumbent must appeal to his flock. Unless the laity in the Church of England can be made to face the problem of clergy stipends, we face the break up, in the next generation, of our thousand-year-old parochial system, with its resident minister of the Gospel in every parish. The responsibility resting upon Anglican laymen today is indeed a heavy one."

Goyder's vision of the Church of the future was an accurate one. Think of our own Parish, our Team Ministry and the vital role we as the laity play in it's ability to function effectively. What was envisaged 67 years ago has indeed come true.

Brian Murkett

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and finally …

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

On the hazards of the annual choir outing My dear Nephew Darren, A local phenomenon invariably occurs at St. James the Least of All each June: large numbers of boys discover a vocation to join the church choir. The fact that their annual outing happens in July is, I am sure, entirely coincidental.

This year, I suggested a cultural tour of the Ashmolean Museum at Oxford.

Unaccountably, they wanted a visit to the local Amusement Park. Life is nowadays so degenerate that democracy even exists within the Church, and I was outvoted: 28 to 1.

Time was when you could drop them all off in the car park, give them half a crown each and tell them to be back by 6pm, while I could enjoy a leisurely lunch, a light doze on a deckchair in the park and cup of tea before returning to the coach. Today, each boy has to be accompanied by an armed guard, travelling a pre-planned route and reporting back to central control by mobile phone at half-hour intervals. You are even expected to bring back the same number you took out. The year when we returned home to find that we had unaccountably lost five of them, would no longer be considered acceptable.

Our choirboys’ ability to consume candyfloss, toffee apples, ice-cream and pop, generally doing so simultaneously, is awesome. Were it to become an Olympic event, St. James’ would be guaranteed gold. But, the consequences are unvaryingly predictable. The sight of Hutton minor projectile vomiting while travelling at 50 mph 30 feet above the ground on the Big Dipper is an image that, sadly, will never fade. It did, however, hugely increase his standing within the choir. That one disaster may well ensure his election to Head Chorister in future years.

Since we now hold separate events for boys and men, the juniors are at least spared the unedifying spectacle of seeing their Rector unsuccessfully attempting to keep the gentlemen out of the first public house they come to – and then prising them back out when it is going-home time.

It also means that the sing-song on the coach on the return journey delays the juniors learning some unsavoury songs for a little longer – until they are elevated to the men’s choir stalls and realise what they’ve been missing on choir outings for all those years.

And so once again, we return home, happy and tired, the boys longing for yet more food and their Rector for a large gin.

Your loving uncle, Eustace The Ismere Messenger, page 28

and …

The Rectory, St. John the Faster, Waterhouses-on-Sea

On the joys of exchanging parishes for the summer My dear Nephew Darren, You will see that I write to you this month from the Norfolk coast, where I am spending August, on an annual exchange of parishes with a clerical colleague. You may have had two weeks in July sunning yourself on an exotic beach on a Greek island, but I am content with a bracing east wind, punctuated by heavy showers.

Come the happy day when you are an incumbent and have to arrange parish exchanges as a way of getting a holiday, let me give you some advice. First, always exchange with someone who is a worse preacher than you are and whose sermons are at least twice as long; you are then sure to be welcomed back with open arms.

Secondly, since it is normally assumed that you will take care of one another’s gardens during the month, make sure that the incumbent you exchange with has an insignificant plot. My colleague should now be largely occupied for most of the month mowing several acres of lawn. The only gardening I intend to do will be in the last week, so I can return with a car full of plums from his trees.

An exchange also gives one an opportunity to undertake helpful improvements in another’s home. I have discovered that my colleague’s library is carefully organised with books according to subject and then author. On his return he will find a new system in operation: they will be ordered according to size and colour. The poor man also naively thought I would never discover his stock of claret in the cellars; it will be much depleted on his return – although I shall naturally leave a note thanking him profusely for laying on such a splendid present for my visit.

Ministering to someone else’s congregation can create another opportunity. For one month in the year, you are able to say exactly what you want. If a dear lady should be foolish enough to ask you after Matins what you think of her hat, you can tell her with total honesty, knowing that someone else will have to pour oil the following month. Upsetting organists, choristers, vergers, flower arrangers and anyone else who happens to cross your path can be bracingly therapeutic when you do not have to face the consequences.

You may have returned from sunnier climes relaxed and tanned, but I shall arrive at September refreshed from knowing I leave behind a trail of devastation and chaos, which will ensure that my host will also be welcomed back by a relieved congregation. Remember the golden rule of parishioners: every new incumbent is worse than his predecessor.

Your loving uncle, Eustace (Revd. Dr Gary Bowness) The Ismere Messenger, page 29

Crossword August/September Crossword Clues (Answers in next edition) Across 1 ‘The people were — at his teaching’ (Mark 1:22) (6) 4 ‘He saved —; let him save himself’ (Luke 23:35) (6) 8 He addressed the crowd in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:14) (5) 9 Father of James and John (Matthew 4:21) (7) 10 One who charges another with an offence (Job 31:35) (7) 11 ‘ — thy ministers with righteousness’ (Book of Common Prayer) (5) 12 and 15 Down ‘All — is God-breathed and is — for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness’ (2 Timothy 3:16) (9,6) 17 ‘No — of the field had yet appeared on the earth and no plant of the field had yet sprung up’ (Genesis 2:5) (5) 19 Made to feel embarrassed (Isaiah 24:23) (7) 21 This man built his house on sand (Matthew 7:26) (7) 22 David’s hypocritical message to Joab on the death in battle of Uriah: ‘Don’t let this — you’ (2 Samuel 11:25) (5) 23 Detest (Job 10:1) (6) 24 ‘God made two great lights, the greater light to govern the day and the — light to govern the night’ (Genesis 1:16) (6) Down 1 To make a serious request (1 Corinthians 1:10) (6) 2 Launches an assault against (Genesis 32:8) (7) 3 ‘The wicked man — deceptive wages’ (Proverbs 11:18) (5) 5 Tuba ale (anag.) (7) 6 ‘The day thou gavest, Lord, is — ’ (5) 7 Old Testament measure of weight, equivalent to about 12 grammes (Exodus 30:13) (6) 9 Where Elijah restored life to the son of a widow with whom he lodged (1 Kings 17:10) (9) The Ismere Messenger, page 30

13 Paul said of whatever was to his profit, ‘I consider them — , that I may gain Christ and be found in him’ (Philippians 3:8) (7) 14 City visited by Paul, described by the city clerk as ‘the guardian of the temple of the great Artemis’ (Acts 19:35) (7) 15 See 12 Across 16 Rioted (anag.) (6) 18 She had a surprise when she answered the door and found 8 Across outside (Acts 12:13) (5) 20 Maltreat (1 Chronicles 10:4) (5) Answers to June/July Crossword Across 8, Grandchildren. 9, Pro. 10, Marvelled. 11, Strut. 13, Startle. 16, Babysit. 19, Orate. 22, Eucharist. 24, Map. 25, Commissioners.

Down 1, Egypt’s. 2, Favour. 3, Edomites. 4, Thorns. 5, Blue. 6, Armlet. 7, On edge. 12, Tea. 14, Adoption. 15, Lot. 16, Breach. 17, Become. 18, This So. 20, Armies. 21, Expose. 23, Avid. .

The Ismere Messenger, page 31

For the Mathematically minded ‌

Simple

Not so simple

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Organisations St. Mary's Musical Director James Bradley; email james@jamesb.org St. Mary's Bellringers – Sue Geens; Ringing Master – Practice Thursdays 7.45pm 07814 188010 St. Mary's Ladies' Fellowship; Sue Coombes - 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 7.30 pm at The Chantry; 01384 896798 Friends of St. Mary's - Mrs. Iris Baggott; 01562 66219 St. Mary's Flower Rota - Mrs. Barbara Preece; 01562 66113 St. Peter's, Upper Arley Bellringers; Mrs. C. Wood; 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; 01562 741510 St. Barnabas' Mothers' Union - Mrs. Christine Lewis; 01562 631616 1st Wednesday, 2.00pm; 3rd Tuesday, Holy Communion at St. Barnabas' 10.30am.

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

Contact Mrs. Pat Charles; 01562 913478 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: 07867 977389 St. John’s, Wolverley Organist & Choir – Paul Blackham: 01562 829352 Wolverley Women’s Institute – First Monday of the month; Church Hall.

Contact Beryl Berry; 01562 850172 Wolverley & Cookley Historical Society – Kathy Deakin: 01562 850668 Wolverley Ladies Fellowship – Christine Summers: 01562 227341 St. Peter’s, Cookley Bellringers – Andy Gray: 01562 850130 St. Peter’s, Cookley Organist & Choir - Vacant Friends of St. Peter’s, Cookley – Marlene Broomhead: 01562 824743 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 The Rector Editorial Committee Sheila Mason, Don Gilbert, Kath L'Enfant, Margaret Lillis Compositor (Compo) Paul Blackham email: theismeremessenger@outlook.com The Ismere Messenger, page 34

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

7th August

Wolverley W.I. (Church Hall) – Fish & Chip Supper

9th August

St. Mary’s Ladies Fellowship

23rd August

St. Mary’s Ladies Fellowship

4th September

Wolverley W.I. (Church Hall)

6th September

St. Barnabas M.U.

9th/10th September

Heritage Weekend at St. Mary’s

13th September

St. Mary’s Ladies Fellowship (AGM)

27th September

St. Mary’s Ladies Fellowship

30th September

Friends of St. Mary’s trip to Newland

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.

(October/November deadline is 8th September) Your co-operation will be greatly appreciated.

The Ismere Messenger, page 35

The Ismere Messenger is published by Kidderminster Ismere Parochial Church Council Printed by Imprint Colour Limited, Aldershot, Hampshire 01252 330683 The Ismere Messenger, page 36