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Saint Mary's Church, Newton-by-the-Sea
Parish of Embleton
Annual Report 2009
Revd Philip Harratt
Revd. Philip Harratt was instituted as Vicar of Embleton & Rennington with Rock on 22 July 2009 at Holy Trinity, Embleton where he and his wife Lizzie, together with their 2 sons, were welcomed to the Benefice.
Services
The services followed the established pattern with The Family service on the first Sunday of the month, Evensong on the second and Sung Eucharist on the third. There were 40 services held in the Church during the year.
A special service was held in Church on Women's World Day of Prayer. On Good Friday following the carrying of the Cross from Craster and Embleton, 18 people attended a Service in Church. In August some 60 people attended a 'Sing for Life' where the congregation sang 51 sponsored hymns on behalf of the Anthony Nolan Trust. A Service of Thanksgiving of Marriage and Renewal of Vows was held in September. The Carol Service, attended by 65 people, was held on the Wednesday before Christmas. There was one baptism. The total number of people attending services in 2009 was 682.
Special Events
BBQ
The weather was not so kind this year but it proved a good social occasion. £104 was made.
Northumbrian Evening
This was a new venture for the Church and was very successful being enjoyed by all who went, so much so that another is being organised for August 2010. The event raised £322.
Northumbrian Folk Concert
Once again the Church was full to capacity for the Andy & Margaret Watchorn concert. £240 was donated to Church Funds.
Teas in the Square
The weather was wonderful and people filled The Square. £1191 was raised through Teas, sale of Bric-a-brac, books and the Photographic Exhibition.
Sing for Life
Saint Mary's took up the challenge to Sponsor The Anthony Nolan Trust, which provides medical assistance for cancer sufferers, by singing 50 hymns or parts of a hymn. The singing lasted 2 hours and 25 minutes including introductory and closing prayers and a much needed tea break. The congregation of some 60 people found themselves hoarse but 'hymnally' refreshed. The result £2373 was sent to the Trust and a further £520 would be reclaimable as Gift Aid.
Harvest
Embleton Handbell Ringers joined the congregation to celebrate Harvest. Following the Service a buffet lunch was held at The Joiners Arms. The collection of £102 was sent to the Cedarwood Trust in North Shields.
Posada and Carol Service
For the sixth year running the Posada travelled to homes in the villages and was received back in the Church at the Carol Service. The Carol service was well attended. Children read all six readings and a Christmas prayer as well as placing the figures in the crib. The first verse of 'Once in Royal David's City' was sung by one of the children. A truly delightful Service followed by mulled wine and mince pies. The collection was in aid of the Bishop's Appeal for Asylum Seekers.
Charitable Giving
The Church supported the following charities during the year:-
Cedarwood Trust, North Shields £168 Aids Hospice in Botswana £248
Church Army 50 Church of England Children's Society 50
Chernobyl Orphans Group 50 Water Aid 50
Mission to Seafarers 50 Bishop's Appeal for Asylum Seekers 176
Anthony Nolan Trust 2373 + £520 gift aid
Fabric
During the year the glass in the windows on the north side of the Church was replaced. The Porch was redesigned, new cupboards fitted and the inner door had glass panels installed all giving a much more welcoming feeling to the building at a cost of £1993. A safe was acquired for the vestry. The Church has gratefully accepted the offer of a 'Norwich' Electronic Organ from Ken and Biddy Fell. This will be installed in the Church in 2010.
Caretaker
After many years June Blair resigned as caretaker and Linda Broughton agreed to take on the role including the opening and closing of the Church from Easter to the end of October. Our thanks go to June for all the work she has done over many years and to Linda for heping us bring the Church to peoples lives through it being open daily.
Thanks
Thanks are due to all those who have helped and supported the life of Saint Mary's Church during the year. Particular thanks to the Vicar and readers Valerie Pomfret and Deborah Elliott. Thanks also to the organists, the clergy that came to take services during the interregnum and to those who have helped with the fabric and garden and not forgetting the congregation. All keep the Church very much alive.
Philip Harratt (Vicar)
