Secretary's Letter

I am sure you will all be interested to know the latest information about the vacancy.  The Elders from Epsom and Ewell had a very positive meeting with our Interim Moderator, Rev. Peter Flint from Dorking, and from that meeting a document has been drawn up which you will all receive from your Elder.  I do ask that you read and study its content very carefully, because your response will affect the future of our Church.  We need not only to think about the here and now, but what would be the best for the future work of the Church in the years to come.  If you would like to discuss any of these matters please contact your Elder or myself.

The Pastorate Profile is an insight into the work and mission of the Church and given to any candidate for the ministry.  We have to re-write ours and the Elders have begun work on this.  I hope at the next Church Meeting on 16^th September we will have something to bring to you for discussion.

Usually the month of August brings fewer meetings and paperwork, but this year has been an exception to the rule with the vacancy, and already we are thinking about September and the Autumn events.

Harvest will be celebrated on 27^th September.  We shall decorate the church with flowers as usual and our Harvest project will be for “Present Aid”, which is part of Christian Aid.  We hope to collect enough to send some worthwhile gifts to deserving countries.  The Harvest Lunch will be on Sunday, 4^th October, in Unity Hall.  Full details will be on the notice board in the foyer nearer the time, so keep watching.

There is a new Church Directory available – please take one per household.

I have had some e-mails from Pat and Peter.  They have moved into their house, (without furniture at present), and are beginning to decorate some of the rooms.  The weather has been very wet. Pat has been with her Mother to organise an operation on her Mother’s knee for the beginning of September.  They send their good wishes to all.

Lastly I would like to mention the passing of Betty Hay.  Betty was a much-loved member of this Church and the Thanksgiving Service on 13^th August was a fitting tribute to her life which was full and varied even though she had many health issues.  We will miss her.