FROM THE METHODIST MINISTER

Dear Friends,

June, 1967.

It is with a real sense of regret that I write this, my last contribution to the Parish Magazine. I have enjoyed my ministry in Hartlip, with all the friendships formed and contacts made both with Methodists and Anglicans. I shall miss greatly my visits to the village, and perbaps especially the happy and fruitful partnership I have enjoyed with Mr. Green.

I must hasten to explain that I am not moving from Gillingham, but that from September 1st there is a change in the division of pastoral responsibility amongst the ministers of the Medway Towns Methodist Circuit. I shall have charge of St. Peter's, Gillingham, and Luton Road, Chatham, and my colleague, the Rev. David Lapworth will have charge of St. Luke's, Rochester, Walderslade and Hartlip. Mr. Lapworth has been in the area for a year already, and I know you will welcome him to Hartlip in the same friendly and generous spirit in which you welcomed me two years ago.

Yours sincerely,

DENIS GARDINER.

PARISH NOTES

Heating Funds

Has at last been closed. The remaining deficit was recently cleared up by the result (£16 17s.) of an extremely enjoyable Wine and Cheese party at Thrognall Farm Cottage, organised by Mesdames Lawrence, Marshall and Williamson.

Family Coffee Morning

Last month was another successful function - organised by Mrs. Fentiman and Mrs. Allen, at "Treeways". The proceeds of £11 have gone to pay off certain fees and costs of erection of our new weather vane, made and given to us by Mr. Fentiman. Mrs. Fentiman expresses thanks to all who helped in any way.

A Warm Welcome

Is extended to Mr. and Mrs. Watson and their young daughters, Pauline and Clare, who have come from Sittingbourne to live at "Hadley" on the Dane House estate.

The Webb Family

Have recently arranged for several curb-stones round their graves in the churchyard to beremoved, in order to facilitate the upkeep of the area concerned. This gesture, in keeping with our new regulations, is very much appreciated. I wonder if there are any other families who would feel able to follow suit? Three years ago I did exactly this with my own parents' and grandparents' graves at Harrietsham.

District Nurse

And midwife, Mrs. Lerpiniere, has a new phone number - Medway 34543.