Benefact – November 2011

Hadnall Church by Diane Clark

Some rain at last! This has been a commodity in very short supply in Shropshire over the summer months and into the autumn. I have never had to water the garden in October, partly through lack of rain and partly because the plants are still growing. Rain in this country is something that we expect to take for granted and this year it has been a reminder to us that it is a precious gift which we cannot do without.

Our Harvest services  also provide a moment to stop and remind ourselves of the bounty of our food sources both at home and abroad. In our world of supermarkets and processed and packaged food it is easy to forget where all this comes from and the labour involved in its growth, harvesting and distribution.

As usual our church was beautifully decorated for the service and many thanks to all those who helped to make the vibrant and interesting displays. Also our thanks to all who helped with the Harvest Lunch in the provision of food, the setting up and serving and the clearing away. Although it was only a simple meal it appeared to be enjoyed by all present as attested by many having seconds of both soup and puddings. Avery generous donation of £95:00 was raised towards the East Africa Famine Appeal.

Our October coffee morning at the home of Mrs Irene Dabbs was well attended where coffee, cakes and chat were enjoyed by all present. A big thank you to our host.

The November coffee morning will be held on Thursday 24^th at the Vicarage from 10:30 am until 12:00. This one will have a slightly different tone as there will be a cookery demonstration by the “Pampered Chef” and an opportunity to buy cookery items as well as the usual coffee and chat. Proceeds from the morning will be shared between Compassion and Help for Heroes. We hope as many of you as can will support this and come along to enjoy the morning.

Another date for the diary is Friday December 16^th when we will be holding an afternoon tea in the village hall instead of the usual coffee morning. This will have a Christmas theme though details of this are still at the planning stage and will be given in the next Benefact. We look forward to welcoming you.