I think Summer has arrived and is very much welcomed after a rather long Winter.

We have now returned to evening meetings and in April at the Holy Communion Service we celebrated Lady Day too. The guest speaker at the meeting was Reverend Gary Kennedy who is a Hospital Chaplain but he was speaking about his experience regarding his visit to the Leprosy Hospital in Bengal. It was all very interesting and enlightening.

At the May meeting we have our own Rector, Julian speaking on a subject of his choice which I’m sure will be interesting.

The Deanery AGM will be held at Christ Church Walmersley on Wednesday 16th May at 7.30pm. Christ Church M U always hold a social evening in May called a Strawberry Sparkle which also happens to be on the same evening and is based on a bring and share. All Branches are invited to stay on following the business meeting if they wish to do so. I shall take some refreshments as a contribution from our branch.

In June the MU have been asked to provide the Parish Lunch and offers of help would be much appreciated.

July will be a busy month as I have reserved 20 places for a visit on Wednesday 4th July 2.00pm - 4.00pm to the Stones and Roses garden in Chorley. Many of you will remember Raymond Smith coming to give us an illustrated and amusing talk in 2015. The cost is £8 including refreshments and Raymond who is an accomplished organist does a short organ recital at the end of the visit. I have been before and can really recommend this trip (just hope the sun shines). I will organise coach transport which will be an extra charge. Please ring me to reserve a place.

We are planning an Afternoon Tea to be held on Tuesday 24th July 1.00pm - 4.00pm and the guest speaker will be Reverend Tony Roach who many of you will remember. Tony is at present based in Catterick as Army Chaplain and it will be nice to see him and hear all about his varied career. Tickets will cost £5 and will be on sale from June.

In love and friendship

Susan Sugden
Branch Leader