'A two and a half hour drive up the M6 and across the Yorkshire Moors
on a crisp and sunny day resulted in our reaching our destination once
again at David’s House in Marske, six miles outside Richmond on the
edge of the Yorkshire Dales.
After settling in, Friday was a quiet day until the evening pre-dinner
Real Ale tasting session took place. We had a total of 22 different
beers to try. For those not familiar with this exercise, sherry glasses
are advisable, although we could not find any!
Saturday saw us in sombre mood. Geoff, our chief chef, managed to cook
one sausage per frying pan, making it hard work for the washing-up
party. We embarked on our discussion session which was entitled ‘The
differences between those who have and those who have not’ ie. the
unequal distribution of assets and wealth, not only around the world
but also in our own country. Are we aware of this? What can we do to
address this situation? What more can we do? Fr. Charles expanded the
subject by saying materialism is one factor but spiritual poverty is
also important, and how can we as a group from St Faith’s increase the
inclusion of others, particularly the children, into our Christian
lives? This, not surprisingly, opened up a huge and lively debate! This
in turn was followed by a quiet celebration of the Eucharist.
The afternoon was still bright and sunny, so we went to the old market
town of Richmond to replenish much needed stores. After dinner Kevin
organised one of his famous quizzes. Then followed a rehearsal of the
pantomine ‘Cinderella’ with Leo, Kevin, Paul, Rick, and Geoff as
prompter (all the ugly ones were there!) I am sure the lines spoken
were considerably embellished!
'On Sunday morning we always have a
Eucharist to coincide with St. Faith’s. In our prayers we
especially
remembered those former members who
have died and whose names are
engraved on the paten from the communion set which Fr. Charles donated
to the men’s group several years ago (Archie Pattison, George Goodwin,
Doug Taylor, John Vincent, (little) John Taylor and John Taylor).
Following this, as is now our annual custom, we walked down to the
beautiful ancient parish church of Marske to meet the small
congregation at the end of their service. We gave them copies of all of
the last year’s Newslink magazines which they are always glad to
receive and read. Sadly their vicar retired two weeks ago and they are
now one of six churches that the Rector of Richmond looks after.
Following a brief conversation, Fr. Charles may be able to help with
their service when we return next year. Although the church is very
old, it has Victorian pew boxes each having their own electric heaters
(although I could not see any meters to put the money in!). Their
Diocesan Quota for the year is approximately £5,500 - and they
are up
to date with their payments (and this is with a congregation of six!).
We then retired to a nearby village pub in Downholme for lunch, which
was followed by a walk in the country or a siesta and a read of the
day’s papers. Monday came and appeared to go just as quickly, prior to
Tuesday morning departure for home to Crosby after a very busy clean
up. Fortunately this year there were no medical mishaps as in some
previous years.'
Michael
Holland