Firstly a huge thank you to all members who helped at the Deanery AGM and the Parish Lunch held in May. I know it was a busy time as both events fell within the same week but, with the help of committed members we managed to host two successful events. Thank you.
At our meeting in May we heard from Peter Hyde of Oldham Mountain Rescue Team and the interesting work done. It’s not just mountain rescue, they are involved in flood disaster, assisting police in searches and lots of other emergencies. It was all very interesting. It’s nice to know the service is there but hope you never have need of it.
At the AGM Julie Lancaster (Deanery Leader) did report about work/support regarding homeless people in Bury and I think maybe I should clarify the information. In Bury there is the Red Door which is housed at St Joseph’s Church House and open Tuesday and Thursday 10.00am - 2.00pm and the one I take our donations to. Secondly there is the Mosses Community Centre which is open Wednesday and Friday early mornings. Thirdly there is the Manna Centre in Irwell Street open Tuesday and Wednesday early mornings, Thursday lunchtime and Saturday teatime.
Please can I draw your attention to changes in the Mothers’ Union programme.
In June we now have Doreen Hough speaking about Prison Families and the work done in this area.
In July David Winterbottom will be speaking about his work as a NHS Dispatcher.
In August I am arranging to host an Afternoon Tea in the Blackburne Hall, 1.30pm - 4.00pm, and will include Chris Foote-Wood to speak about his book, Victoria Wood Comedy Genius. Proceeds from this event will go to MU ‘Summer of Hope’ appeal raising funds for families and communities around the world.
The Bury Deanery Festival will be held on Sunday 2nd July at St Paul’s Church, Ramsbottom at 2.30pm. All Branch Banners will be displayed but only the Deanery Banner will be paraded. It’s a new initiative holding this Service on a Sunday and also in the afternoon.
St Margaret’s Prestwich will be the venue for the Bolton Archdeaconry Festival on Wednesday 9th August where our Provincial President Canon Mrs Barbara Taylor will preach.
I have been asked to mention the annual MU Weekend Retreat which will be held at Foxhill, Frodsham, Cheshire on Friday 7th July - Sunday 9th July and the main Speaker will be Rt Revd Mark Ashcroft, Bishop of Bolton. The cost of the weekend is £142 including all meals.
Susan Sugden
Branch Leader