News:

Happy new year to one and all and we hope that you have all had a peaceful, restful Christmas and that all your arrangements went according to plan.  Wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous 2022.

It was with sadness that we learnt of the passing of Ann Longbottom, who for many years lived in Lurley.  Ann was often to be seen at social events, supporting both the village hall and St. Mary's. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ann's family and friends.

Also in November the burial of Mrs Penny took place in the churchyard. Our condolences go to Valerie, Andrew, family and friends at this sad time.

On 26 November St. Mary's Church had the priviledge of being one of three venues for the funeral of Ron Tidball from Loxbeare.  The service was relayed, from Loxbeare church to Loxbeare village hall and Calverleigh church with a live link of picture and sound. It reflected well the spiritual life led by Ron and the encouragement he gave to others. Over the years Ron has had very strong links with Calverleigh and was always pleased when the two villages joined together for social events and carol singing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Margaret and family at this most difficult of times and with all others who are mourning the loss of a loved one.

A Remembrance Sunday service was led by Rev'd Georgie Bell who was assisted by our Curate Rev'd Claire Curtis. It was a lovely and thought provoking service. Thank you to you both.

The Autumn Fayre took place on 20 November and was well supported. It was lovely to be able to hold this event once again, after a break because of Covid-19 last year.  All the normal stalls were present and a constant stream of visitors made for a lovely day. Our thanks go to all the stall holders, the people working hard in the kitchen providing tea, coffee and light lunches and especially to all who came out on what was not the nicest of days.  A total of over £1,000 was raised towards the running and upkeep of the church.

28 November saw a Holy Communion Group service held at Calverleigh. Rev'd Claire Curtis led the service with Rev'd Steph Gordon-Jeffs presiding over the communion. We were pleased to welcome Dave Edwards and Sue Rivett who provided the music on this occasion.

Our Christingle service which took place on 5 December was led by Nikki Burton and we were pleased to see so many of you there. It was especially lovely to see so many children, many of whom had family connections with the village.  All the children present received a Christingle to take home as did a great number of grown ups. Our thanks go to Doreen who kindly donated the Christingles once again. A donation from the collection is sent to the Children's Society to help towards their work with vulnerable or disadvantaged children and young people.

Over the Christmas period a collection is made of dried and tinned goods along with toiletries which will go to CHAT in early January for distribution amongst those who are in need. Thank you to all who have contributed.  Anything that is collected is always greatly appreciated by CHAT and the recipients of those goods.

We would like to welcome Steph and Steve to Lurley and hope they will be very happy in their new home.

A very happy birthday or happy anniversary to anyone celebrating in January or February, whoever you are! (Do let us know!)

Events Coming up

As you probably know, each month we hold a time of prayer on the first Saturday of the month between 9am and 11am. In January this will be Saturday 8th (and not the 1st as incorrectly stated in the magazine version of these notes!), in February the 5th.  

Cleaning Rota 2022

It is hoped that a church cleaning rota can begin again in the new year.  Cleaning had been happening but with a very small band due to restrictions that were in place during the past year and the concerted effort that was made to keep people safe. If there is anyone else who would like to come onto the cleaning rota please contact Aubrey on 255248.  Thank you

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