Benefice Newsletter
The Brampton Benefice
Brampton Abbotts, Bridstow, Peterstow, Foy, How Caple, Sollershope
Benefice Newsletter February 2010
Dear Friends,
It is over a year now since we became a benefice. Not quite that long since we legally became 'The Brampton Benefice'. Fine, but what does the word benefice mean? What difference does it make to us?
In one sense it is the group of parishes under the care of a Vicar or Rector. The one thing you have to share is me! But I'm sure we can do more than that!!!
The word benefice comes from the Latin 'bene' which means good. We are a group of Christian people, who happen to live in a certain group of six parishes, who can work together for the common good.
At the moment we are working on a project to enhance the welcome we give to visitors. Bridstow's is now up and running; others will follow. If you get a chance do go to Bridstow for a service and have a look.
Churchwardens and treasurers from all the parishes meet to plan worship, share ideas and reach common aims. Courses on reading & leading intercessions and the Lent and Bible Study groups happen across the benefice.
People from Brampton Abbotts and Peterstow help Bridstow people with school events like holiday club and Easter Experience. Likewise Bridstow and Brampton people attend the Peterstow lunch. Come Patronal Festivals, Harvest, Christmas and Rogation time services are shared and at other times people attend one another's fund-raisers.
There are things we do together for the common good. I'm sure there is more we could do. Any thoughts or ideas welcome.
Your friend,
Ann
Life moments
All our churches are available as we celebrate those important moments in our lives. These include baptism and confirmation; weddings, blessings after civil weddings and renewal of vows on that special anniversary; funerals and memorial services. In the first instance contact me and we can arrange to meet.
Ann.
Events
**Remember members of all parishes are welcome to join in these events.**
Bridstow Coffee Morning from 10.30am at Hill House on Tuesday 2 February.
The Bible Study Group meets on 24 February at 10.30am at the Rectory. New members always welcome.
Sollershope hold their annual Bridge Drive on 25 February from 2pm.
Meetings
The churchwardens meet on 25 January at the Rectory at 7.30pm.
Peterstow PCC meets on 26 January at 7.30pm in church.
Foy PCC meets on 2 February at 10.15am a Gay's.
How Caple PCC meets on 2 February at 7.30pm at Hilda's.
Deanery Synod meets on 2 March at Much Birch.