News Archive

NEWS ARCHIVE - 2012

Sept 30 - Back to Church Sunday. For the first time this year, we are making a big effort to mark this special day. Invitations have been issued to friends far and wide - in fact, if they all come, we'll need a bigger church. A special service, led by Wendy and Keith, will feature an on-screen talk by artist Charlie Mackesy, which should give us all plenty to think about.

Sept 1 - It's the start of a new month and a new Methodist year. That also means that our new minister, Rev Ian Pruden, officially took up his post with effect from this morning. For most of us, the first chance to meet Ian will be at our Harvest Festival service next Sunday (9th).

July 29 - Our 164th Church Anniversary also marked the very last time that Rev Malcolm Hope would lead worship as our minister. Next week, he and Christine move to Minehead to enjoy a well-earned retirement. A lunch followed the morning service, at which we were able to show our appreciation to Malcolm and Chris for their ministry among us over the last 5 years.

July 27 - Pett Methodist Church got into the Olympic spirit with a party to mark the start of the 2012 Games. The evening began with a selection of games and competitions on a sporting theme, and a tasty BBQ.

Inside the chapel there was live music, and then from 9pm, taking advantage of a special Olympic TV licence dispensation, the Opening Ceremony was shown live on the big screen, to the obvious

delight of a packed chapel.

As darkness fell, we performed our own lighting ceremony, with dozens of tiny candles being lit and suspended from a wire across the front of the building.

The event was enjoyed by church members, local residents and a smattering of tourists, the latter being especially delighted to be able to enjoy a good view of the opening, plus some proper local hospitality.

July 8 - Sea Sunday. As is our usual custom we took our worship to the seaside, and held a special service at the HQ of the Pett Level Rescue Boat. Rain forced us inside, but for the first time, we were able to make use of the new boat shed which made a delightfully cosy chapel (and surprisingly bright and clean ... for a shed).

The theme of the service was "Protection", and Steve Hill very gamely demonstrated the protective gear worn by the lifeboat crew. Hollie's protective clothing was beautifully modelled, but perhaps not quite so effective.

The service concluded (the rain having stopped by this time) with the customary blessing of the lifeboat.

By kind permission Jenny Jones Photography www.jennyjweddings.co.uk

April 7 - We were delighted to host the wedding of Sue Larsson and Steve Townsend.
On a slightly overcast and drizzly day, the sun broke through just before the end of the ceremony, allowing Sue, Steve and their guests to take photographs on the lawn before departing for a reception for family and friends.
We wish them both many happy years together.

April 6 - Good Friday - Our traditional Good Friday service was well attended, starting at the Methodist Chapel, and concluding at the Parish Church after a Walk of Witness through the village.

February 18 - About 30 young people, leaders and helpers enjoyed the film "Gnomeo and Juliet", followed by sausage and chips. The only negative comment was that some of the chips were burnt - but that didn't stop the young man in question asking for a second helping.

February 14 - Pett Chapel played host to the first Circuit meeting of Worship Leaders. The result was a refreshing and inspirational evening which provided much encouragement to those that attended. Another such gathering is planned for May.

January 10 - Commencement of new weekly Bible Study course entitled "Come As You Are". The course material concentrates on various aspects of discipleship, and runs for 10 weeks, finishing just before Easter.