FROM THE METHODIST MINISTER

Dear Friends,

We were so pleased to welcome, once again, our friends from the Parish Church to our Annual Covenant Service. Some people feel that they cannot take part in this service because they are not good enough. They feel it hypocritical to say "I am no longer my own but Thine. Put me to what Thou wilt - I freely and heartily yield all things to Thy pleasure and disposal."

However, can we really approach God and say "I will offer a part of my life to You but no more". We must keep the ideal of perfection before our eyes and strive towards it. This is what we promise to do in the Covenant Service.

I personally found it very moving to meet as one body of Christian people for this time of re-appraisal and of renewal of promises.

Yours sincerely,

David Lapworth.

PARISH NOTES

Recital

We are extremely grateful to Richard Carleton, of Rainham, and David Howlett (organist at St. Mark's, Gillingham) for organising a recital of carols and organ music at Evensong on 7th January. The recital had the intention of thanksgiving for the completion of the cleaning of our organ and the speedy raising of the money required. The Choral Quartet, who also led the singing for Evensong, consisted of Margaret Snowdon, Patricia Stevens, Richard Carleton and John Bloor.

A Quarter Peal

Of 1260 changes (Grandsire/Plain Bob doubles) was rung on 31st December, 1967, at Hartlip by the following band: -

Treble, Miss P. Tomsett; 2, G. Wood; 3, R. Bushell (conductor); 4, M. Lacey; 5, C. Mannerings; 6, J. Green.

Correction

In last month's letter I incorrectly gave Mr. Steer as having lived in the thatched cottage opposite the church. In fact it was his wife .... (cont.)