On the evening of the 28 October 2010, Rosemary Hawley gave us a very personal insight into the role, trials and tribulations of being High Sheriff of Merseyside. Rosemary’s interests were very varied before she became High Sheriff but focussed mainly on offering practical help to those in need. However, she, in typical unassuming style was surprised, deeply honoured yet very anxious when the she, the Vicar of Kirkby’s wife was invited to become High Sheriff. Nevertheless, she accepted the duty, commissioned and helped design a wonderful dress to compliment the lace frills of office and started to plan her year.
She was appointed High Sheriff at a health centre in Kirkby with many children in attendance. Her chosen theme for the year was Safety, Health and Learning. Her journey led her through the five boroughs of Merseyside; driving along its roads, sailing up its rivers and canals and flying in our skies. She reminded us of the historic county’s five Boroughs: Liverpool, Knowsley, Sefton, St. Helens and Wirral and explained the inherited closeness of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside through the celebrated Duchy of Lancaster which is still very pertinent to the recruitment of our armed forces as well as toasts at Dinners of State.
Rosemary then turned her recollections to working with the judiciary. We were told that as High Sheriff she had sat, with High Court Judges on some high profile trials in Liverpool. After working with them all day, the High Sheriff entertained them at her home, in the Cathedral Close and took visiting judges to the Philharmonic Hall and local theatres.
Another part of the role of High Sheriff was to meet and greet royalty when they visited Merseyside. One of the royals she entertained was Prince Andrew. When visiting a school to lead an assembly on the work of the High Sheriff, one of our own princesses asked if she were the High Sheriff who was the Low Sheriff.
In the course of her year Rosemary was fortunate enough to have the use of the cathedral for functions as her husband Anthony is Dean to the Cathedral. The highlight she shared was the Judges’ Service where Dame Anne Owers DBE Chief Inspector of Prisons addressed the congregation in place of a sermon.
Her most treasured memories however, were related to her contribution to the Citizenship Ceremonies. It is now compulsory for those people accepting British Citizenship to formally declare their allegiance to our country in a public forum with a dignitary ptresent and sing the National Anthem. The Lord Mayor of Liverpool asked Rosemary to perform this duty on his behalf and she enjoyed it so much, she is still involved in this service today.
Rosemary not only enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life but more importantly being able to ensure the realisation of positive change to people’s day to day circumstances.
We finished up with a short question and answer session. One question was did she put any weight on due to the number of sumptuous events and banquets she attended; and the answer was no.
Rosemary was thanked for her most enjoyable memoirs and the evening ended with a cheese and wines supper, chat and merriment. The contribution made to the Building Fund from this evening was £225. A big thank you to all who contributed.
On the evening of the 28 October 2010, Rosemary Hawley gave us a very personal insight into the role, trials and tribulations of being High Sheriff of Merseyside. Rosemary’s interests were very varied before she became High Sheriff but focussed mainly on offering practical help to those in need. However, she, in typical unassuming style was surprised, deeply honoured yet very anxious when the she, the Vicar of Kirkby’s wife was invited to become High Sheriff. Nevertheless, she accepted the duty, commissioned and helped design a wonderful dress to compliment the lace frills of office and started to plan her year.
She was appointed High Sheriff at a health centre in Kirkby with many children in attendance. Her chosen theme for the year was Safety, Health and Learning. Her journey led her through the five boroughs of Merseyside; driving along its roads, sailing up its rivers and canals and flying in our skies. She reminded us of the historic county’s five Boroughs: Liverpool, Knowsley, Sefton, St. Helens and Wirral and explained the inherited closeness of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside through the celebrated Duchy of Lancaster which is still very pertinent to the recruitment of our armed forces as well as toasts at Dinners of State.
Rosemary then turned her recollections to working with the judiciary. We were told that as High Sheriff she had sat, with High Court Judges on some high profile trials in Liverpool. After working with them all day, the High Sheriff entertained them at her home, in the Cathedral Close and took visiting judges to the Philharmonic Hall and local theatres.
Another part of the role of High Sheriff was to meet and greet royalty when they visited Merseyside. One of the royals she entertained was Prince Andrew. When visiting a school to lead an assembly on the work of the High Sheriff, one of our own princesses asked if she were the High Sheriff who was the Low Sheriff.
In the course of her year Rosemary was fortunate enough to have the use of the cathedral for functions as her husband Anthony is Dean to the Cathedral. The highlight she shared was the Judges’ Service where Dame Anne Owers DBE Chief Inspector of Prisons addressed the congregation in place of a sermon.
Her most treasured memories however, were related to her contribution to the Citizenship Ceremonies. It is now compulsory for those people accepting British Citizenship to formally declare their allegiance to our country in a public forum with a dignitary ptresent and sing the National Anthem. The Lord Mayor of Liverpool asked Rosemary to perform this duty on his behalf and she enjoyed it so much, she is still involved in this service today.
Rosemary not only enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life but more importantly being able to ensure the realisation of positive change to people’s day to day circumstances.
We finished up with a short question and answer session. One question was did she put any weight on due to the number of sumptuous events and banquets she attended; and the answer was no.
Rosemary was thanked for her most enjoyable memoirs and the evening ended with a cheese and wines supper, chat and merriment. The contribution made to the Building Fund from this evening was £225. A big thank you to all who contributed.
Friday 19 November 2010
Sunday 4 July 2010
Mid Summer's Bowls & BBQ
On 19th June we had a fun filled afternoon which included a Bowling Scramble and BBQ.
Over 35 people attended and 25 competed in the main event. Wally Needham won the Scramble Championship so many congratulations to him.
The BBQ was superb and everyone enjoyed the summer sunshine and a glass or two of wine! Thanks to the chef and the chief organiser, Jean Needham. Over £250 was raised so many thanks to all who showed such generosity.
Over 35 people attended and 25 competed in the main event. Wally Needham won the Scramble Championship so many congratulations to him.
The BBQ was superb and everyone enjoyed the summer sunshine and a glass or two of wine! Thanks to the chef and the chief organiser, Jean Needham. Over £250 was raised so many thanks to all who showed such generosity.
Sunday 4 April 2010
The Lamb - William Blake
Little Lamb, who made thee?
Dost thou know who made thee?
Gave thee life, and bid thee feed,
By the stream and o'er the mead;
Gave thee clothing of delight,
Softest clothing, woolly, bright;
Gave thee such a tender voice,
Making all the vales rejoice?
Little Lamb, who made thee?
Dost thou know who made thee?
Little Lamb, I'll tell thee,
Little Lamb, I'll tell thee.
He is called by thy name,
For He calls Himself a Lamb.
He is meek, and He is mild;
He became a little child.
I a child, and thou a lamb,
We are called by His name.
Little Lamb, God bless thee!
Little Lamb, God bless thee!
Dost thou know who made thee?
Gave thee life, and bid thee feed,
By the stream and o'er the mead;
Gave thee clothing of delight,
Softest clothing, woolly, bright;
Gave thee such a tender voice,
Making all the vales rejoice?
Little Lamb, who made thee?
Dost thou know who made thee?
Little Lamb, I'll tell thee,
Little Lamb, I'll tell thee.
He is called by thy name,
For He calls Himself a Lamb.
He is meek, and He is mild;
He became a little child.
I a child, and thou a lamb,
We are called by His name.
Little Lamb, God bless thee!
Little Lamb, God bless thee!
GOD IS WORKING HIS PURPOSE OUT
When entering our great Capital City from the bowels of the Underground at Oxford Circus, if you are very fortunate you catch a glimpse of the Spire at All Souls Langham Place.
This church has an extraordinary history. Built in the early 19th Century, it was key to the Town Planning initiative instigated by Prince Regent. From the sky you can clearly see the church forming a pivot in the road from Regent's Park down to Piccadilly Circus that we know today as Regent Street.
All Souls is renowned as a progressive and evangelical church and lays claim to a plethora of great clergy and orators. Even today they have John Stott, Rico Tice of Christianity Explored fame and obviously the present incumbent, Hugh Palmer.
A couple of weeks ago I went along to the 11.30 service and was surprised to see that the theme for the service was 'Time to Build'. The lesson was Haggai 2 10-23. The book of Haggai is only a couple of chapters and was written in 520 BC. It is a book to encourage the discouraged Jews who were struggling to rebuild their temple after a long exile from Jerusalem.
The encouragement was neatly summarised by the preacher in four key statements:
This church has an extraordinary history. Built in the early 19th Century, it was key to the Town Planning initiative instigated by Prince Regent. From the sky you can clearly see the church forming a pivot in the road from Regent's Park down to Piccadilly Circus that we know today as Regent Street.
All Souls is renowned as a progressive and evangelical church and lays claim to a plethora of great clergy and orators. Even today they have John Stott, Rico Tice of Christianity Explored fame and obviously the present incumbent, Hugh Palmer.
A couple of weeks ago I went along to the 11.30 service and was surprised to see that the theme for the service was 'Time to Build'. The lesson was Haggai 2 10-23. The book of Haggai is only a couple of chapters and was written in 520 BC. It is a book to encourage the discouraged Jews who were struggling to rebuild their temple after a long exile from Jerusalem.
The encouragement was neatly summarised by the preacher in four key statements:
- Sort out your priorities and get on with working through the plan
- Trust in a dependable God
- Don't expect miracles overnight
- Hold on to the big picture
As ever we dipped in and out of scripture to aid our understanding. It hit me that 'God's signet ring' mentioned throughout the bible is metaphor for the House and Lineage of David, which culminated in the birth of Jesus. The authority and dependability that we have as Christians, due to God's gift of Jesus, results in us having the purpose and strength to do His works.
It is our duty to listen to Haggai; to be encouraged as well as encourage others thereby preserving and progressing His Church here in Eccleston and throughout His lands.
Saturday 6 March 2010
Harmony Unlimited - Stephanie and Norman
Christ Church Eccleston presents an afternoon with
Harmony Unlimited - Stephanie and Norman
See you all in CHURCH on Wednesday 17th March 2pm-4pm
A retiring collection in aid of the Spire and Building Fund
Harmony Unlimited - Stephanie and Norman
See you all in CHURCH on Wednesday 17th March 2pm-4pm
A retiring collection in aid of the Spire and Building Fund
Sunday 28 February 2010
The Barn Dance - A big thank you
The dust has now settled, cowboy boots, jeans and pretty skirts safely packed away so may we take a moment to reflect on last night's fun?
The caller was superb - Thank you David for your wonderful contribution
The Parr family gained a new 'Peace'ful ornament - Thank you for your most kind donation
The raffle prizes seemed mostly fixed on one table (just the way the cookie crumbles and next time that table could be yours), but thank you all for your most generous purchases of raffle tickets
- and the atmosphere was truly wonderful.
The youngest there was heard to remark that she hadn't expected the evening to be 'this much fun' and the venue perfectly suited the Barn Dance theme.
I so hope that everyone who came, as well as the few who sent apologies, thoroughly enjoyed the evening. It was a marvellous opportunity to share in a different sort of Christian fellowship, meet new folks and laugh and joke with old friends.
Also, may I announce that we made just over £1,200. Great job everyone. Thank you to Theresa at The Game Bird and to you all.
The caller was superb - Thank you David for your wonderful contribution
The Parr family gained a new 'Peace'ful ornament - Thank you for your most kind donation
The raffle prizes seemed mostly fixed on one table (just the way the cookie crumbles and next time that table could be yours), but thank you all for your most generous purchases of raffle tickets
- and the atmosphere was truly wonderful.
The youngest there was heard to remark that she hadn't expected the evening to be 'this much fun' and the venue perfectly suited the Barn Dance theme.
I so hope that everyone who came, as well as the few who sent apologies, thoroughly enjoyed the evening. It was a marvellous opportunity to share in a different sort of Christian fellowship, meet new folks and laugh and joke with old friends.
Also, may I announce that we made just over £1,200. Great job everyone. Thank you to Theresa at The Game Bird and to you all.
The Giants at our Sides
Do you remember trying to outrun the monster walking along with you when you were a child or changing the way he walked by altering your stride length or by picking up your feet?
The sun is very low and yet light intensity appears more powerful at this time of year. Our eyes are unfamiliar to its brightness and I bet you have reached for your sun glasses on more than one occasion when driving since the start of 2010. Over 2 million people in the UK suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) each Winter and most of us enjoy sunshine so we have personal as well as scientific evidence that sun light is beneficial.
We all understand the power of trees to be nature's air conditioners and something of how they can purify the air we breath but researchers have proven that some molecules change in Woodland light and this atmosphere appears to have beneficial effects on sufferers with certain life threatening conditions. I'm not sure if there are more good chemicals or how the molecules change, but there is a magic in the dappled haze of a woodland or orchard at any time of the year that we all can experience.
A few days ago the heavy winter sun was casting a shadow of the spire into our orchard. It seemed to go on forever. The quality of the light was different to that of a woodland, but it was awe inspiring.
I glanced up to the spire and my eyes reflected God's glory. It wasn't 'Ex Terra Lucem', but 'Out Of The Spire, Light'.
The sun is very low and yet light intensity appears more powerful at this time of year. Our eyes are unfamiliar to its brightness and I bet you have reached for your sun glasses on more than one occasion when driving since the start of 2010. Over 2 million people in the UK suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) each Winter and most of us enjoy sunshine so we have personal as well as scientific evidence that sun light is beneficial.
We all understand the power of trees to be nature's air conditioners and something of how they can purify the air we breath but researchers have proven that some molecules change in Woodland light and this atmosphere appears to have beneficial effects on sufferers with certain life threatening conditions. I'm not sure if there are more good chemicals or how the molecules change, but there is a magic in the dappled haze of a woodland or orchard at any time of the year that we all can experience.
A few days ago the heavy winter sun was casting a shadow of the spire into our orchard. It seemed to go on forever. The quality of the light was different to that of a woodland, but it was awe inspiring.
I glanced up to the spire and my eyes reflected God's glory. It wasn't 'Ex Terra Lucem', but 'Out Of The Spire, Light'.
Monday 1 February 2010
Here we go - Let's Dosey do
Whether you enjoy Stripping the Willow, the Gay Gordons or simply Hot Pot we have the ideal evening waiting for you.
Our Spring Country Barn Dance is to be held on 27th February at The Game Bird on the East Lancs. The live caller is none other than our own David Anderton. We will sandwich our Hotpot Supper between dancing. The festivities start at 7.30 pm.
So get your glad rags on and join the fun.
We look forward to welcoming you and dancing the night away.
Our Spring Country Barn Dance is to be held on 27th February at The Game Bird on the East Lancs. The live caller is none other than our own David Anderton. We will sandwich our Hotpot Supper between dancing. The festivities start at 7.30 pm.
So get your glad rags on and join the fun.
We look forward to welcoming you and dancing the night away.
Tuesday 19 January 2010
Musing on Music and Appreciating Achievement
The place of God in creative brilliance entered my mind when listening to music by John Rutter over Christmas.
There are some who have the genius to compose, write or choreograph; others who have the genius to interpret and perform great works; still others who have the gift to appreciate perfection and finally the ones like me who struggle to create, deliver or appreciate. However one saving grace may be the ability to strive, commit and work hard.
As Winston Churchill said 'Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm'. So I guess it's OK to struggle and it's OK to fail. It was perseverance that mattered to the Greatest Briton of the last millennium.
As I’m sure you’ve seen the Christmas Appeal raised £2010, before 1st January 2010 and by 15th January we are at £2,307.29 before Gift Aid.
Carolling around the Pubs
Many thanks to the composers and authors; Mendelssohn, Charles Wesley, Christina Rossetti et al., the carollers and the pianist, the soloist and backing group and most of all the listeners and donors. The total collected was £510.05.
We also must say a huge thank you to the Stanley Pub Quiz Team who very kindly gave £170 to the Appeal. Take God’s word to the people and look at the marvellous effect.
The Christmas Box to the Spire
We can call the venture a resounding success as the amount raised is a staggering £1,627.24. This is truly awesome. We have achieved greatness here, due to people's creativity, their dedication at manning, or should we say womanning the Christmas stockings and the generosity of you the congregation. Very many thanks to you all and didn’t the porch look pretty!
We know that St. Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians is being exemplified all over the world each and every day; just look at the team efforts that are saving lives in Haiti right now, but isn’t it differently wonderful when you feel it happening right on your doorstep? Our Building Fund is slowly and surely growing. People in Eccleston and St.Helens are talking about it and putting their hands in their pocket.
The message is out!
There are some who have the genius to compose, write or choreograph; others who have the genius to interpret and perform great works; still others who have the gift to appreciate perfection and finally the ones like me who struggle to create, deliver or appreciate. However one saving grace may be the ability to strive, commit and work hard.
As Winston Churchill said 'Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm'. So I guess it's OK to struggle and it's OK to fail. It was perseverance that mattered to the Greatest Briton of the last millennium.
As I’m sure you’ve seen the Christmas Appeal raised £2010, before 1st January 2010 and by 15th January we are at £2,307.29 before Gift Aid.
Carolling around the Pubs
Many thanks to the composers and authors; Mendelssohn, Charles Wesley, Christina Rossetti et al., the carollers and the pianist, the soloist and backing group and most of all the listeners and donors. The total collected was £510.05.
We also must say a huge thank you to the Stanley Pub Quiz Team who very kindly gave £170 to the Appeal. Take God’s word to the people and look at the marvellous effect.
The Christmas Box to the Spire
We can call the venture a resounding success as the amount raised is a staggering £1,627.24. This is truly awesome. We have achieved greatness here, due to people's creativity, their dedication at manning, or should we say womanning the Christmas stockings and the generosity of you the congregation. Very many thanks to you all and didn’t the porch look pretty!
We know that St. Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians is being exemplified all over the world each and every day; just look at the team efforts that are saving lives in Haiti right now, but isn’t it differently wonderful when you feel it happening right on your doorstep? Our Building Fund is slowly and surely growing. People in Eccleston and St.Helens are talking about it and putting their hands in their pocket.
The message is out!
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