Welcome all to the Ashton-On-Mersey United Reformed Church September 2018 newsletter! From BBQ’s and Concerts to supporting literacy in South Africa, we have a variety to share with you.

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CAMEO Open Evening “Inspiring”

It was a treat to see all those who came to our Open evening last month. It was so inspiring to see all the knitting and crochet made by the Ashton-on-Mersey URC ladies and the Hale URC ladies.

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We enjoyed a light buffet and heard a report on where items had been sent. It is quite apparent that we do need to keep on knitting as items are required, not only here in the UK but, worldwide.

We do have lots of beautifully knitted squares that need to be sewn together to make blankets. If anyone feels they can do this, (it’s easy to do whilst watching the television) please get in touch.

For more details about you can join CAMEO (Come and Meet Each Other) please contact Pat Joyce: 0161 969 0715

Written by Pat Joyce

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Don’t worry about anything,

Pray about everything,

And,

Don’t forget to thank God for the answers

Thought of the Month – September 2018

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Family BBQ and Concert is a Hit

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What a grand afternoon and evening.  The weather was perfect, everyone was eager to help and there were plenty of people to enjoy the festivities.   The concert was well received and enjoyed by all.  Such fun, the atmosphere was electric.    Thanks to all those who took part and to Karen Garrattley for producing and inspiring as always.

One of our star singers was Glenn Fildes.  Men, women and children all thoroughly enjoyed his performance and he has since sent a communication:

“Dear Karen, Becky and Alfred.
“I want to say how much I enjoyed the excellent concert (and bbq) yesterday and what a delight it was to have a sing of all my favourites as I rarely have an opportunity these days.
“The atmosphere amongst your group is delightful and it is lovely the way you use everyone’s talents so effectively……….’Men In Tights’ will be in my memory for ever.
“It was brilliant.  Thanks.”

Glenn Fildes

Written by Alf Joyce

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Edu Fun Hits Target thanks to Church’s Donation

In June we sent £70 to the charity Edu Fun in South Africa. Some of you may remember that this was the charity my daughter Helen volunteered with when she was living in Johannesburg.

Edu Fun’s aim is to improve English literacy. They teach learners in grades 2 & 3 at Diepsloot Combined School in the informal settlement of Diepsloot, South Africa. Volunteers teach 3 times a week and lead a holiday art, sport and reading programme. Through partner projects, they also provide school uniform mending, health checks for students, food for vulnerable families, support for teen moms attending school and guidance and financial assistance to learners at university

In June Edu Fun had the opportunity of becoming a member of ‘Global Giving’ which means all donations made via Global Giving are tax deductible in both the USA & UK. The task was to have over 40 donations and raise over £3700 between June 11 & June 29^th. Our donation helped them reach their goal in just 13 days.

“We are overwhelmed with gratitude. We have exceeded our initial goal of £3700 thanks to your donation. In just 13 days 69 donors from across the world have supported us so generously. Our most sincere thanks for helping make this happen. The impact you have made on so many lives is astonishing and humbling!”

E

Written by Sylvia Corbishley

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Messy Church “Our Community & Journeys”

We have been busy over the Summer. In July we explored our local community through a number of activities including playing miniature golf; writing postcards, and making a fabulous junk model park after looking at pictures of Ashton Park. It was definitely fun for all ages as you can see.

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In August we looked at Paul’s journeys around the Mediterranean.

The weather was sunny and we were able use our church garden to the full. Valerie helped children ‘get messy’ taking off their shoes and socks to paint their feet to leave footprints of their journeys (though it wasn’t just children that wanted a go)!  We also made paper planes; looked at national dress with paper dolls; made jigsaws, and designed boats to sail in our mini oceans (aka a paddling pool and old baby bath). The Celebration section was led by Dave Frazer (with some intriguing props) encouraging participation acting out Paul’s adventures.

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Next month our theme is ‘Bible Seaside’s’.  We would love to see you there. Messy church is for all ages, so come along and join us 3pm till 5pm on Saturday 1st September.

You can also email us: AonM@messychurchaonm

Written by Helen Priestman

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Flower List for September

• 2nd – Beryl Oliver
• 9th – Doreen Dale
• 16th – Myra Ranson
• 23rd – Andrew and Christina Seath
• 30th – Gillian Hunt

PTA (Pleasant Tuesday Afternoon) Schedule

• 4th – Half-yearly meeting-Bring & Buy
• 11th – Revd Brian Acty
• 18th – Lunch at Fiona Court
• 25th – Revd Valerie Davies

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Thanks for reading our newsletter. Visit our blog for more updates.

Newsletter Edited for the Website by Becky Garrattley