The presence of bats on the SRMC site has had a surprisingly high profile throughout the development and has been an agenda item on meetings since the initial planning phase.
So what’s the fuss about? Well, all UK bat species are protected by the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. Protection is necessary to preserve habitat, particularly hibernation and roosting...
read moreAs the day approaches when the doors of the chapel will be reopened, perhaps it is time to look back over the redevelopment period.
End of 2015
Exactly 5 years ago now, members and friends of our church started to talk about redevelopment of our premises and of the refurbishment of buildings which had stood the test of time but had been built so long ago that now sadly,...
read moreSome people here know Christmas is about the birth of Jesus, but not everybody is aware what it is about. It is often seen as just another public holiday and there is a lot of drinking. The wealthy people will buy ‘that tree’ and the gifts but only for their close family. It is tradition to buy the children a new outfit that they can wear on Christmas. It can be a painful day because many...
read moreFrom a church family perspective, the leadership team is planning for Christmas celebrations, now that we know the contractors are due to hand back the building at the end of November. I am looking forward to seeing people in person after months when we have been restricted to meeting each other on Zoom. Celebrations will need to take account of the Covid-19 restrictions that are in place over...
read moreA sign of a successful organisation is it’s ability to change and adapt according to needs. Well, our Church has excelled in this during lockdown. Online church services every week, Zoom meetings for both business and worship, Whatsapp video calls and a community Whatsapp site for emotional and social support. Those who aren’t able to be online receive their fellowship and worship using the...
read moreLike lots of people during lockdown I have come to appreciate - notice even - the area on my doorstep. I have always noticed the garden and the birdsong but I’m not particularly knowledgeable about what lies beyond that. I tend to travel to other places. When you have a baby you tend to pack in visits to parks, soft play, swimming pools and libraries for the child and for your own mental...
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#everdaygratitude
Just before lockdown I had begun to read a book called “Less is More – Spirituality for Busy Lives” by Brian Draper. The book has lots of short simple chapters with reflections/areas to consider, it is a book to read slowly and reflect upon each chapter.
One of the suggestions in this was to keep a gratitude diary – of up to 5 things each day written simply....
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21st Big Birthday party
Chopwell and Rowlands Gill Live at Home Scheme hosted a Big Birthday party on the 12th September to celebrate 21 years of working in the local...
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