St Andrew’s, Dearnley

Photo: Peter Shrigley

St Andrew’s Church Priest-in-charge, the Rev Canon Sharon Jones

The priest-in-charge of St Andrew’s, Dearnley, the Rev Canon Sharon Jones, has been re-elected to represent the Manchester Diocese on General Synod for the next five years.

Synod usually meets twice a year in London and York and topics under discussion currently include the refugee crisis; renewal and reform within the C of E and what it means within the parishes; and the public perception of Jesus.

This coming Sunday, 22 November, we have Sung Eucharist at 9.30am and we expect to be well represented in the evening at the Deanery Service with Bishop David at St Chad’s.

Also that evening we have a meeting of JAM (Jesus and Me), which is our new Sunday evening group for 11 to 16 year olds.

We meet in the parish room for food, fun, friendship and exploring what it means to be faithful followers of Jesus.

On Saturday, 28 November there will be an Advent Quiet Morning in the ‘Upper Room’ which will be led by Sharon, our vicar, who will give short and separate sermons on God’s promises to Abraham, Jacob, Mary and us, after each of which there will be time for silence and reflection.

All are welcome, especially anyone who has never experienced a Quiet Day and may be unsure about silence and how to use it creatively.

Called ‘Promises, Promises’, the programme will start at 9.30am and end about 12.30 pm with Final Worship.

Sunday, 29 November, is not only Advent Sunday, but also the Eve of St Andrew’s Day when we celebrate the Feast of our patron Saint. We will have our usual 9.30am Sung Eucharist, but also a Choral Evensong at 5.00pm at which the preacher will be the Rev Stephen Tranter.

On Saturday, 5 December, we are running a parish trip to Durham Cathedral and the city’s Christmas Markets, taking in a carol service. Cost is £16 and you can sign up in the parish room or book with Ada.