An enlightening visit.

On Sunday, we were pleased to welcome Sam and Violette Beeton for a special United Benefice Service at 10.00am, along with two representatives of the Church Mission Society (CMS).  We were treated to a presentation of photographs showing what Madasgascar is like, where Sam and Violette live and work and what they do there.  We were even invited to visit Madagascar for our holidays!

We were especially pleased to hear that the funds St Mary's gives to CMS have indeed made their work possible. One of Violette's roles is to teach some of the women to sew; there is training for farmers on how to take care of their crops and Sam's role is in education, training people for the ministry.  Some of those recently ordained have a tough life ahead of them, working in remote places.

After the service and talking to the congregation during refreshments, about 20 people went to the Rectory for a Bring and Share lunch. It was a good opportunity to find out more about Violette and Sam's life in Madagascar. The inclement weather made it difficult to decide where to hold it, but inside the Rectory was the favourite.  Many thanks to everyone who helped provide the banquet and to the Rector for the use of the Rectory at VERY short notice.  We thank Violette and Sam for a wonderful visit and send them our best wishes and prayers.