Closing Service at North Weald

The Closing Service at North Weald Methodist Church took place yesterday, Sunday 23 October.

The 65 strong congregation was made up for present and past members of the church along with representatives of the local community and the other churches in HAEBEA.

The service, which was led by Revd Blair Kirkby — Methodist Superintendent, included the hearty singing of Hymns with Mrs Rosemary Barnard at the Organ; readings from Scripture read by Mrs Christine Deacon and Mrs Gillian Green. Mrs Cynthia Nash gave a history of Methodism and the church building and the many groups and activities that have occurred in North Weald over the years. Prayers of thanksgiving, letting go and moving forward were also offered.

After the service everyone moved into the hall for fellowship, conversation and a sumptuous tea!

A particular highlight for me was to meet a lady after the service who had been baptised in the church 75 years ago and who had brought her Baptism Certificate with her. We were able to find the original entry in the Baptism Register and shared many memories of her time in the village.

We give hearty thanks for all that God has done in North Weald and continue to pray for those in that place who seek new ways of bringing the Good News of Christ, the 'living stone' on which all our endeavours are founded.

Michael Beccato-Fischer