FROM THE METHODIST MINISTER

Dear Friends,

I regret that through indisposition I was unable to write for the January issue of the Parish Magazine, but, if it is not too late, would extend on my own behalf and on behalf of my wife, our sincere good wishes for 1965 to our many friends in the village, both Anglican and Methodist.

Our little Methodist Chapel made history in Hartlip on Sunday, January 10th when our Anglican friends joined us for the first United Covenant Service to be held in the village.

John Wesley held his first Covenant Service in the French Church at Spitalfields on August 11 th 1775. He called upon the Methodist people to renew their Covenant with God and since then throughout Methodism on the first Sunday of January or as near thereto as possible, the whole church has held this Covenant Service, which has been a fruitful source of blessing ever since. Indeed this solemn and challenging service has been one of the treasures of our Methodist heritage.

It was, therefore, with much joy that we were able to share this, service with the vicar and the members of the Parish Church and so further demonstrate the deepening union there is between our two churches.

DONALD WHITE.

PARISH NOTES

Applications

Are invited for the part-time job of maintaining our churchyard, in succession to the late Mr. Reed. The usual rates are paid and the work is at its heaviest, of course, in the summer months. Enquiries to me, please, or to Mr. Wallis, at Yew Tree Cottage.

Welcome

To Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hinge and family (well-known name in farming circles in this area) whose stay at Greenborough House we hope will be a long and happy one. Welcome also to Mr. and Mrs. Cooper, and their baby daughter, who have just moved into the new bungalow 'next the viaduct'. We hope they will soon feel part of Hartlip although continuing with their business interests in Sittingbourne. Our best wishes, too, to Mr. and Mrs. Jock Noble in their new home - a re-decorated and re-designed Keites Styles.

Farewell

And very best wishes to Group Captain and, Mrs. N. Elwy-Jones, and their daughters, who leave us this month for Hove, Sussex.

A Recent Loss

To our community occurred with the death of Mrs. Annie Philpot, of Mill Cottages. Till recently she belonged to, and enjoyed, several local organisations and her tall, thin figure will be missed, too, in our fields and orchards, where she has worked seasonally for a great many years.