What a wonderful Circuit
Service we had at St Andrew’s on Sunday 20 July!
The church was almost
full and every church was represented. All our presbyters took part in the
service, which lasted for almost 2 hours! Who can believe that? No-one noticed
that it was any longer than a usual service. It was one we shall remember for a
long time.
Rev Nick described the
occasion as ‘bitter sweet’. We were bidding farewell to Revs Ian and Sarah
(“parting is such sweet sorrow” – the Bard), yet we celebrated their ministry
and gave thanks to God for their involvement in the life and mission of the
circuit over what has been a difficult time. Ian has contributed such a lot,
that it is hard to think he arrived in Bradford only 5 years ago. In contrast,
Sarah arrived as a probationer minister 17 years ago, and when she leaves us,
she will continue to minister in the city (in Bradford South circuit). We have
all been blessed by their gifts and graces, and it was right to thank God for
sending them to Bradford.
A cause for celebration
at the service was the recognition of Kim Attenborough as a fully-accredited
local preacher. Kim has not found the studies required to qualify as a preacher
easy, and the process has taken several years. However, during that time she
has blessed all of the churches in the circuit by the gifted, imaginative and
warm way she has led worship. We all rejoice with Kim and Mike that she has now
gained official status for her calling, which we and she have never doubted.
Bradford North circuit is fortunate indeed to have Kim in our team of local preachers,
and we do thank God.
Oh, that we had more
services which were so well-attended and uplifting!
Well, we have a chance
to reach the heights again in just 5 weeks! On Monday 1 September, a service of welcome for our new minister, Rev
Christine Crabtree, will take place at Northcliffe Church at 7.30 pm. The
preacher will be the Chair of West Yorkshire Methodist District, Rev Dr Roger
Walton. Come and join us! Make Christine and her new husband Stephen feel
really welcome. Let’s give God the glory together!
Martin
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