St.Thomas’ Church, Foxley

 

A heart - warming  number of  people from the Sparham Deanery came to Foxley on Sunday 5^th March for the Lenten Evensong service led by the Rev.David Head, at which the preacher was the Rev.Leslie Wilman. The hymns, all of which focused on the “love” of god and our love for each other, were sung with enthusiasm to John Fletcher’s accompaniment at the organ, enhanced by the excellent acoustic in St.Thomas’ nave – always praised by visiting musicians; we must try to use it more often! We were also pleased by comments on how warm it was and praise for the home-made biscuits!

The PCC met on  9^th.March. The main item of business was the adoption of the 2005 Annual Accounts for presentation to the Annual Parochial Church Meeting taking place on 19^th April. We are paying our way and, with some savings and grants, we have been able to undertake re-wiring the church and renovating ancient pews & screen in 2005. It is hoped to go forward with further work, particularly with the church porch and interior decoration, during this year and with the help of some fund-raising. It was decided to get together before Easter to clean up the base of the tower and to apply a special solution to the main door to help conserve it; the door is at least 600 years old, but this treatment is much recommended by our specialist conservator, Mr Dawes.

Mr.Nigel Hatch reported on the February Deanery Synod  Meeting in Foulsham at which Rev.Tom Candeland was commissioned as Rural Dean; Bishop of Norwich, Graham James, spoke on the subject “Inspired to Prayer” and there was a report from General Synod by Robin Back.

  Mrs.Monica Hatch is now our representative on the Benefice Ministry Team and she gave an account of her first meeting. Future plans include a “mens breakfast” in Elsing village hall on 10^th.June. The Team will meet quarterly, which will enhance mutual support between our parishes; they will be a “think tank” for the benefice.

In a rest year from the full operation of “Foxley Open Gardens”, we are working on an Open Day at Foxley Lodge on 4^th June, to include ploughman’s lunches, teas & refreshments, stalls, games, a draw and any other ideas people may have. Please let the secretary know – also if you are able to help on the day.

Richard and Joan Parfitt have booked the Hoochy Blues Band on 19^th August. This should be great fun – take your own hamper & bottle and listen to rhythm & blues in the garden at Pol – Na – Chess, Mill Road.

 

Diana Harvey

PCC Secretary