Opening of The Livingstone Hall @ Ongar URC

Saturday 16th November 2019 was truly a memorable occasion when a Full Church attended the Service held to celebrate the completion of the work of up-grading our downstairs Church Hall, and the building of a new kitchen/entrance/toilet and office — now known as "The Livingstone Hall" where a portrait of this world famous Christian missionary/explorer, and short-time resident in one of our cottages, is displayed.

As with all such major contracts, there have been unexpected difficulties/delays, which required new decisions being negotiated.

It is impossible to name every-one who has contributed to achieving this result, but special thanks and appreciation must be extended to our tireless Church Treasurer Brenda Hall, and her right hand woman, Sandra Dear. Also, sincere and heartfelt gratitude to their husbands — Ken and Patrick.

We are all so thankful to them for their expertise, practical knowledge and experience. We must also mention our new Elder, Steve Smith for all the hours he has toiled shifting large loads, decorating walls, ceilings, etc. Thank you, Steve.

We haven't entirely completed yet. The upstairs "Taylor" and "Ongar History" Rooms are now in progress. Our prayers are being answered, and after a project envisaged ten years ago, we are nearly there.

Our Special Guests included Councillor Richard Bassett (Chairman of Epping Forest District Council) and his wife. We very much appreciated his words of encouragement and congratulation on what has been achieved so far.

Also present were three young men from Epping who, after receiving tuition from Brenda Hall and some gruelling adventures along the way, have achieved their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards, and will shortly attend St. James Palace to receive their medals.

Well done everyone!