TRAINING DAY FOR UNIT COMMITTEES
A Training Day held for the Branch and Deanery Officers attracted forty participants. The Day, led by Ann Jackson Training Officer, included various exercises and discussions on how to build an effective Branch/ Deanery Team.
The day began with two exercises - Branch Bingo and where is the Team. This was followed by "Money, money, money" - a look at financial issues. The group also looked at the characteristics of a healthy branch and producing a balanced programme.
There was much discussion, laughter and sharing of ideas and it seemed that on the whole everyone enjoyed the day and found it very beneficial.
RETREAT
The Spring Retreats were led by the Dean of Brecon Cathedral, The Very Revd Geoffrey Marshall. Using slides, the Dean took us on a pilgrimage to Damascus, the River Jordan and Sardis. Bible references were Acts 9. 1-25; 2 Kings 5. 1-19 and Revelation 3.1-6.
The Dean reminded participants that going on a pilgrimage won’t necessarily make one holy but when we go home we should put into action what the pilgrimage has done for us in the way we lead our lives, in our dealings with other people, especially the ones we would rather avoid. As the angel said to Mary at the tomb: He is not here He is risen; go and spread the good news.
THANKSGIVING AND COMMISSIONING SERVICE
Members filled Brecon Cathedral on 23 January for a Service of Thanksgiving and Commissioning which was conducted by the Dean, The Very Revd Geoffrey Marshall. During the service, prayers of thanksgiving were offered for Ruby Hayden (retiring President) and the outgoing Trustees. The Bishop, Right Revd John Davies, commissioned Revd Kay Warrington as President for the triennial (2010 -2012), together with the new board of Trustees. Revd Mark Beaton was commissioned as Chaplain and Helen Williams as Secretary.
The Chaplain, Bishop, President and Dean pictured after the Service
EAST AFRICA FAMINE APPEAL
This appeal to help 20 million people across Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Uganda was launched at the Council in October of last year. Millions of people are facing starvation through famine and urgently need relief and water aid.
Members took this on board and by December had raised £5000 which was sent off to Mary Sumner House together with £4000 from diocesan funds.
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