St James' says goodbye to Fr Bryan and Teresa
Sunday 20th July 2014
For the second Sunday running, the parish was blessed with fine weather. This time it was to say goodbye to Fr Bryan and Teresa after 8 years of faithful ministry. At the end of the 11.00am Mass, Deacon Duncan Aitkins presented Fr Bryan with a personal gift from his family. Then many parishioners assembled in the parish garden. Meanwhile others took part in the 5km Fun Run, including Fr Bryan and Fr Tom Cooper. By the time the runners had returned over 300 people packed the parish garden.
The two new gas powered barbecue cookers were well used to provide lunch for those who didn't bring picnics. The outside bar was well patronised and continuous music was played through Terry Connolly's great sound system. Many people admired the LiveSimply Garden where Joe Falzon was on hand to answer questions. Children were particularly interested to hear about the pond and to spot the celebrity frog who enjoyed the publicity. Fr Bryan presented prizes to the Fun Runners and then it was time to present to him and Teresa.
A huge number of cup cakes had been baked and children were the first in a long queue of appreciative eaters. Hilary Teare had made a beautifully iced cake in honour of Fr Bryan and Teresa, employing not only skill but humour too (see below).
Graham Price made a short but entertaining speech and then presented the cash collection from parishioners. This was followed by a gift from the Justice and Peace Group of vouchers to Southbank events. As a reminder of the LiveSimply principle to Live Sustainably, Fr Bryan and Teresa were given a sponsored tree each. Pam Lundy presented a water colour of the church painted by her daughter Rachel. A 150 page photobook entitled "Memories" was presented by Audrey Wright who had compiled an album of nearly 600 images taken of parish events and people from the last eight years. There was also a jar containing farewell messages collected from parishioners. Finally a bouquet of flowers was presented to Teresa.
Thanks are due to the many people who worked so hard to make the Fun Run and party such a great success, particularly Sue David and Chris Delf.