Holiday at Home Reunion at St Andrew's

Wednesday 8th January came all too quickly and as I woke up, I wondered “Has it snowed?”! This was our sixth Holiday at Home in January and we have never had to cancel one, due to bad weather. On this occasion, the weather was very good.

At St Andrew’s the swans’ feet began to arrive; the tables needed laying and the kitchen setting up to feed the mighty hordes of secret biscuit nibblers. Volunteers and helpers began arriving at 9 o’clock and at 9:30 the first guests arrived.

By 10 o’clock, all our guests were assembled.

During our mid- morning munching, we were right royally entertained by Alex Smith, who performed mighty feats of magic and baffled everyone with his illusionary tricks.

For lunch, we moved into the Church.

We had a superb lunch as usual (Thank you to St. Christopher’s Church.) Everyone enjoyed playing Pass the Sprout or Penguin.

After lunch, we were entertained by Emma, who had a song for everyone.

Presents were handed out and there was much jollity and happiness.

At 3 pm, Rev. Mark Watson led us all in a very simple but dignified service of communion. Then we parted and made our ways home.

Sadly, this was my last Holiday at Home, as I retired as Pastoral Co- ordinator in February.

I have had six wonderful years and have made many friends. I would especially like to thank my team of Helpers, who have worked so hard to make Holiday at Home a real success.

But also, a great big thank you to everyone who has been a guest. You have made Holiday at Home what it is.

I might be going, but Holiday at Home will live on. Watch this space. May God bless every one of you who has participated, and thank you for letting me into your lives.

John W
(Former) Circuit Pastoral Co-ordinator