Diocese of Ely
The Three Rivers Group 
Chippenham, Fordham, Isleham, Kennett, Snailwell

Join us on Facebook for photos, community and events!@thethreeriversgroup

Intercessions

Funerals 

Olive Berry (Fordham) on Monday February 4 at 1pm.

Michael Carter (Isleham) on Tuesday 12th February 12 at 11am. 

Advance notice- Sing4Fun - on Wednesday February 20 (half term week)

From 10 – 4pm at St. John’s Church, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 8RN. 
For all aged 8 – 18; Cost per participant £10. 
To book visit elyrscm.org.uk or email Lydia Cant at lydia.cant@elyrscm.org.uk

Foodbank

Please don't forget to bring your contributions to church or the local Co-op shops. Your contributions are still very much needed and really valued. 

There is also always a need call for toiletries - soap, shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste and so on - and pet food.

2018 Food bank Annual Report for The Three Rivers Group

A very big Thank You for the significant amount of donations received from yourselves. 
Howard & Bren (Soham Distribution Co-ordinators)

24 families in the villages comprising the Three Rivers Group received 3-day emergency food supplies. In total, 146 adults and 140 children were fed.

The villages comprising the Three Rivers Group donated 1208 kg of food and other goods.

Sunday Services in the Three Rivers Group

February 3 – Candlemas

• 9.30am Isleham – Eucharist

• 9.30am Snailwell – BCP Eucharist

• 11am Fordham – Eucharist

• 11am Chippenham – Family Service

• 6.30pm Fordham - Evensong

 February  10 – 4 before Lent

• 9.30am Isleham – Eucharist 

• 9.30am Snailwell – Eucharistt

• 11am Fordham – Eucharist

• 11am Chippenham – Eucharist

• 3.30pm Fordham – Messy Church 

Carol’s Research Project

Carol is taking a 3-month break from taking services on Sunday in order to help with a research project.  You may see her around from time to time and she'll be properly back in action in April.

The Monday  Prayer Group - next on February 11

The Prayer Group is not meeting on Monday February 4

The prayer group meets at 1.30pm on Mondays for an hour of prayer. We meet at 1 West Street, Isleham. 

Tuesday mornings - opportunities to meet:

• Fordham church cafe in the undercroft 
  From 9am onwards. Refreshments and play area for children.
  

• St Andrew's Isleham Coffee morning at The Social Centre
  Tea, coffee, cake and bacon rolls, from 9am-12noon. 

If you are interested and would like to know more about the Day Centre please contact Judith Wood. Tel: 01638 720328.

Fordham Day  Centre Lunch Club - next on Wednesday February 6

Fordham Day Centre is a lunch club for older people and meets on the 1st and 4th Wednesday of each month from 10.30am to 2.30pm.

We meet at Withers’ Place community room for company, chat and food. Coffee and tea are provided on arrival, then lunch and a cup of tea before you leave.

We have a “mobility” taxi available, if needed, for transport to and from the meetings. The Day Centre is run by volunteers (not carers) who cook and look after the members.

Open Mission Shaped Ministry Course - next on February 7 and 28

Mel is now heading into the second and final year of her placement with us. There is an opportunity to join Mel on a 'Mission Shaped Ministry' course for anybody who is interested in finding out more about Fresh Expressions, mission and how to engage more with people currently outside of the church. 

Sessions will normally run on the first Thursday of each month, 9:30 - 1pm in Bishop Woodford House Ely, led by Rev. Jonnie Parkin, starting on October 4. Please contact Mel if you are interested in attending.

Messy Church - next on February 10 at Fordham at 3.30pm

For families - Crafts, story/song session and a simple meal at Fordham church from 3.30-5.30pm on the second Sunday of the month.

If you know anyone who would like to take part, or you would like to help in any way please do speak to one of the Ministry Team.

Messy Church - needs Lego and Duplo

We would be very grateful for donations of pre-loved Lego and Duplo bricks and figures. Please contact Sue or Mel. 

Messy Church - Help needed!

Please would you consider becoming a leader or helper, either on a regular or occasional basis? Contact Sue for further information. 

Mothers' Union  - next on Wednesday February 13 

A talk on ‘Shine a Light’ (a Newmarket based group) at Chippenham village hall at 2.30pm.

All welcome.

Mums+ - next on February 15

Mums+ is a monthly coffee morning for fun, conversation and sharing our questions of life, faith and parenthood – all ages welcome. For more details contact Laura Cox-Watson 01638 724839.

Upcoming dates -

• 9.15am February 15, at Scotsdales Fordham

• 9.15am March 15, at Scotsdales Fordham

• 9.15am April  26, at Scotsdales Fordham

Contact: Laura Cox-Watson on 01638-724839.

Sing4Fun - on Wednesday February 20 (half term week)

From 10 – 4pm at St. John’s Church, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 8RN. 
For all aged 8 – 18; Cost per participant £10. 
To book visit elyrscm.org.uk or email Lydia Cant at lydia.cant@elyrscm.org.uk

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Opportunities

Baptism visitors

Having previously asked if there were people who were interested in helping us welcome the families of children being baptised by becoming baptism visitors, we'll mention it again in case anyone wants to come forward. 

Prayers for healing

We are also considering offering prayers for healing at some of our Sunday services. If anyone is interested in learning some more, please speak to David or Sue.

Learning more about our Faith

Take up for the Way of Life courses has not been as strong as we would have liked.  If our churches are to flourish they need to be places where we can all talk about our faith.  

What would help you to talk about your faith more confidently?  Bible study? Alpha course? Christian Basics? Prayer Group? 

If we don't speak about faith how will new people share it? Please speak to David or Sue.

Volunteers drivers needed for the Three Rivers Car Scheme

Volunteers are needed for the Three Rivers Car Scheme. Please get in touch with Muriel Hoodm on 01638 666722.

Messy Church - needs Lego and Duplo

We would be very grateful for donations of pre-loved Lego and Duplo bricks and figures. Please contact Sue or Mel. 

Messy Church - Help needed!

Please would you consider becoming a leader or helper, either on a regular or occasional basis? Contact Sue for further information. 

Fordham Enclosures Map

We have in the parish chest a map of Fordham from 1809. This item would be better cared for under archive conditions, so it is our intention to deposit it I the county records office. It will still be accessible to people in Cambridge once deposited. If you would like to look at it before it goes away or you know people who might be interested, please get them to contact Rev'd David to arrange a time to view. I think we will hope to deposit the map later this year.

Report of Training Day ‘Caring for God’s Earth’
at Michaelhouse, 10 October 2018

Thanks to Bridget Newns-Copper. Click to download PDF (280Kb)

Roger's open garden event

A great thank you to all who came to the open garden event, especially those who brought cakes and gave donations. We raised £322.00 for the Preservation Trust. 

Pioneering in the Group with Mel

We are very fortunate to have Mel working with us as a group. It would be good to establish a small team around her that were interested in helping the church reach out beyond our walls. If you are interested please talk to one of the ministry team. 

More about Pioneer Ministry: https://www.cofepioneer.org/

Midweek Communion and Coffee

We’re thinking of starting a midweek 10am communion service followed by coffee/tea. Is anyone interested?

Confirmations at Ely Cathedral on Sunday May 20

Thanks to all who joined us s for the Pentecost Praise service and the  confirmations of Stefanie Reginold from Fordham and Cara Guest from Isleham at Ely Cathedral.

Snailwell Flower Festival of Hymn-themed Floral displays  
May 26-27

There was a Flower Festival in the church at Snailwell on May 26 and Sunday May The Hymn-themed floral arrangements were on display on both days. The festival ended with Songs of Praise on Sunday afternoon.

Baptism Visitors sought

The Church of England commissioned some research which found that baptism families were much more likely to join the worshipping life of a church if they met with people other than the clergy. 

It would be good if we had some people who were willing to engage with baptism families. It would involve meeting with the family during the booking process and perhaps going to see them afterwards. 

It would be good to have a small team from each church. If you are interested, please talk to one of the ministry team. Full training and ongoing support will be offered.

Annual Parochial Church Meeting - Reports for download

The ACPM held on Tuesday April 24 at Fordham School. A speaker from the Diocesan Stewardship Department made a presnetaion at the start of the meeting.

Reports (in PDF format) from the Group and the parishes can be downloaded from the links below:

• Annual report for the Three Rivers Group.

• Annual Report for Chippenham.

• Annual report for Fordham.

• Annual report for Isleham.

• Annual report for Kennett.

• Annual report for Snailwell.

	The 7th annual Spurgeon Trundle On Saturday May 5 over 30 people (and some dogs) walked from the village to the riverside monument which commemorates the baptism of Charles William Haddon Spurgeon, The Prince of Preachers, in the River Lark at Isleham on May 3 1850. In a short act of worship we sang Amazing Grace and How Great Thou Art and recited the Lord's Prayer.

St Andrew's Church, Isleham, Cambridgeshire
Festival of Light on December 2/3 and 9/10

The Church was open to view over 40 illuminated Christmas trees decorated by local groups and businesses and attracted many visitors.

The Community Carols service on Sunday December 10 was very well attended.

The institution of the Rev’d David Cleugh - October 20 at Fordham

The institution of the Rev’d David Cleugh as Rector of the Three Rivers Group by the Bishop of Ely was held on Friday, October 20 in St Peter and St Mary Magdalene, Fordham. 

There was a good turnout with excellent music during the service and splendid refreshments afterwards.  Thanks to all who helped to make it a great occasion.

 David and his wife Hannah, who is the Senior Chaplain to the Bishop of Ely, will live at the vicarage in Fordham.

James Marston - Placement Student

We are pleased to welcome James Marston on placement in the Three Rivers Group. James is training for ordination at Westcott House, Cambridge. He will be with us for the next year.

Mel Takac - Pioneer Partner

On November 21 we welcomed Mel Takac as our new “Pioneer Partner”.

Mel is coming to work full time across the group as part of her exploration of what God is calling her to do. Mel will be with us for between 12-21 months. Please do make her feel welcome.

Mel will be commissioned at Fordham and Isleham on December 3 and Snailwell and Chippenham December 10.

More about Pioneer Ministry:

https://www.cofepioneer.org/

New Rector appointed for the Three Rivers Group

The Revd David Cleugh has been appointed as Rector for the Three Rivers Group David is currently Priest-in-charge of the parishes of Leadgate, Medomsley and Ebchester in the Diocese of Durham.

The Bishop of Ely instituted David to his new post on Friday, October 20 at 7.30pm in St Peter and St Mary Magdalene, Fordham.

http://www.elydiocese.org//announce?id=600

David describes himself as a 'liberal Anglocatholic, vegetable grower, dog walker and Mansfield Town fan".

https://twitter.com/frdavidcleugh?lang=en

David and his wife, Hannah, will reside in the vicarage in Fordham.

The Revd Dr Hannah Cleugh, formerly Chaplain and Solway Fellow of University College, Durham, has been appointed by the Bishop of Ely as his Senior Chaplain.

http://www.elydiocese.org//announce?id=589

She is a board member of Affirming Catholicism.

http://www.affirmingcatholicism.org.uk/index.html

New Address – Brenda & Tony Lee

Flat 25, 11 Cullum Road, 
Bury St Edmunds , Suffolk. IP33 3PB

Sue and David's Ruby Wedding Celebration - Sunday July 30 

Thank you all so much for your good wishes, greetings and cards, and for making our Ruby Wedding such a special occasion.
Revd Sue & David.

Annual Band & Blossom Concert and BBQ - Sunday May 14
at St Andrew's Social Centre, Isleham

The Annual Band & Blossom Concert featuring the splendid Newmarket Town Brass Band, with a BBQ, was held in the Social Centre Garden on Sunday May 14. Thanks to all who supported this event which raised £850.

Section 12 Meeting with the Archdeacon - May 9

Last Tuesday’s Section 12 meeting to discuss the vacancy timeline was led by Archdeacon Alex Hughes and Rural Dean Rev’d Sue Giles. 26 people attended and the meeting was positive, informative and encouraging. Information on parish reps for the interview process to follow shortly. 

The vacancy is now advertised on the Ely Diocese web site.

Berkeley Castle to Berkeley Close 1500 miles in just over a week in a Berkeley T60 with Geoff Dabrowa - May 8-14

After spending the weekend camping near Stroud for “Wheel Nuts” Charity Car Show and The Club AGM Barry Jones and myself start off on Monday morning May 8 from Berkeley Castle in our standard 328cc motorcycle engine three wheel Berkeleys to replicate as near as possible a drive that was done in 1960 by Bob Currie and Andre Baldet that took them all round the UK, as far north as Inverness in a NEW Berkeley, (ours are 57yrs old !!). 

Update:

Sadly, Barry's car broke down on the first day and after a series of dramatic breakdowns - and repairs - Geoff too was prevented from from completing the planned itinerary.

However he covered over 800 miles, arriving at Berkeley Close in Biggleswade on Sunday afternoon May 14, (the site of the old Berkeley factory). Many thanks to all who enabled us to meet our goal of raising over £1,500 for Cancer Research.

Download an A4 flyer which shows the route and planned daily schedule (PDF file).

Geraldine and I have been active members of our village church, St Andrew's Isleham for 40 years. Geraldine had great support from the Church family and Macmillan Nurses, since being diagnosed and successfully treated for breast cancer last year.

We are hoping to raise £1500 for Macmillan Cancer Support (one £ for every mile of our journey. 

Anyone wishing to donate can do so on my “Just Giving” site Justgiving.com/fundraising/Geoffrey-Dabrowa and gift aid if possible. 

Farewell Mike and Helen

The farewell Group Eucharist at Isleham last Sunday was a very special time. It was very moving for us, write Mike & Helen, and we are extremely grateful for your very generous gift to us both. It will come in very handy for all the work we are having done to our house in Ely. So THANKS. Very much appreciated.

It will be difficult to move on, but these times come to us all, and we support and encourage one another on the journey. You have certainly encouraged and supported us in our ministry with you in these churches and these villages for the past fourteen years. I still have some weddings and baptisms to take, so will see you from time to time. 

Lunch on Monday at Chippenham Park was another super day, which I hope and pray all enjoyed too. Over 200 of us gathered for a superb hog roast from La Hogue, with salads and desserts. Our grateful thanks to Hugo and Becca Nicolle and Eustace Crawley for their great generosity, and to Louise, Yvette and all their helpers with the food and drink. Peter Maxwell and family make splendid bar persons, and Liz made a very special cake. Judy Burbidge made the table decorations to round off a brilliant day.

Thanks again. God bless.

The 6th Annual Spurgeon Trundle - Saturday May 6 

On Saturday May 6 about twenty of us walked from the pond in East Fen Road Isleham, via Ferry Drove to the River Lark on our Annual Spurgeon Trundle.

We gathered there by the monument to the Reverend Charles Haddon Spurgeon, who was famous as The Prince Of Preachers. He was baptised there in the river in 1850, and we commemorated the occasion with a very short act of worship.

Evensong at Jesus College - Tuesday May 2

The patron of Fordham and Kennett, Jesus College, have invited us to attend choral Evensong in the College Chapel in Cambridge on Tuesday May 2nd. We would travel to the college on the Tuesday afternoon, for a short talk from the Dean of College, at 5 pm in his rooms, with tea and coffee and then a 45 minutes Evensong at 6.30. We could share transport I am sure. 

The Student Cross - Holy Week Tuesday and Wednesday

The Student Cross walked through the parish again in Holy Week. 

They stayed overnight in the Victoria Hall in Fordham and Jenny Bowen and her team of helpers fed them supper and then rose early for the students’ breakfast before their walk on Wednesday. 

They joined us for Compline on Tuesday evening: it is a delight to be able to offer hospitality to them.

Three Rivers Lady Day service - March 24

Three Rivers Lady Day service was at Burwell on March 24, followed by lunch. 

The Bishop of Ely blesses new works at Fordham church

The Bishop of Ely, the Rt Rev’d Stephen Conway, presided at the Eucharist at Fordham on Sunday, March 19. He blessed the new works in church and the porch. Members of John and Judy Abbott’s family were with us as was Anne Newport. It was very good to say thank you to them for the generous donations which have made all this work possible. Jeremy Newport and Allen Heseltine left us gifts which have contributed to the new doors, and the work at the back of the church.

The new café in the porch at Fordham - Tuesday mornings

The new café in the porch at Fordham started really well this last week. It’s now every Tuesday 9 – 10.30. DO join us. Thanks to all who help.

Duncan Dalais

Duncan Dalais has now moved with Peter to Norfolk, though we will still see him once a month. He has agreed to take some services during the interregnum. Many thanks in advance for that, and for all Duncan’s help in the parish. Much appreciated.

Weddings lunch - January 29

Our annual lunch for wedding couples was held on Sunday January 2 at Chippenham Village Hall. We have 22 weddings this year, so this way we can sort out details better together rather than saying the same thing 22 times!! Thanks to Jenny and her team for the catering.

Fordham Clean Up

Many thanks to all who turned up at church to start a big clean up after our works have been completed. A great morning’s work, with the new curtains installed and looking very good. The Bishop of Ely is coming on March 19 to the morning Eucharist to bless the new works. We are also hoping that Judy Abbot will be represented as much of the finance for all these works is a gift from John and Judy. Additionally Allen Heseltine left us a bequest which has also helped with the new choir vestry. Grateful thanks to all.

Peter Welch

After the death of Peter in October, his funeral was held in Fordham Parish Church, when a collection was taken for the Arthur Rank Hospice in Cambridge, in memory of Peter. The total was £733.

Peter’s family would like to thank everyone for their generosity as well as the kind thoughts and memories of Peter sent to Audrey and family. 

Work in progress at Fordham

The new doors are now in place at Fordham and work is continuing with placing pews in the crypt, and the new curtains (thanks to Pat, Jenny and Jackie at Fordham).

Parish News needs a Proof Reader 

If you are interested, and can spare a couple of hours 6 times a year please contact Mike.

New Vicar for Soham

The Rev’d Eleanor Whalley has been licensed at Soham and Wicken. Eleanor comes from St Neots where she was the curate.

Judy Abbott

Judy Abbott (from Fordham) has now moved into a care home on the Wirral, but is well. Helen, her daughter, sends her greetings to everyone. Judith Wood has an address if you would like to send a letter.

Fordham School expands

Work is continuing at Fordham Church of England Primary School in the new build of classrooms, an enlarged Hall and various other facilities too. The school will be able to use some of the spaces by September 2016, and the work will be completed ready for a grand opening in September 2017. The school roll will double, meaning that all the children in our villages will be able to attend their local schools.

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Floods, Droughts and Sausages! - October 8 at Karma Farm

 

A super Saturday at Karma Farm. Many thanks to Bridget, Will and Sheila for hosting and Kath for the catering. Nigel and Alastair for leading us on this Christian Aid event.

This Autumn Barbecue event was run by St Andrew's Church, Isleham,  and sponsored by Christian Aid as part of their nationwide Week of Action (8-16 October), to tell the government, ahead of upcoming environmental legislation, that we want powerful laws to combat climate change and protect places we love, for example, in our parish, The Wash, with its precious bird life.

Alistair Burn told us about the winter migrants that will be starting to arrive, and Nigel Cooper talked about the threats posed to Fenland wetland habitats by climate change.  

Pet service - at Snailwell on September 25

Many thanks to Sue, Helen and Carol for a super service.

 

Snailwell Galaxy Big Band Concert

After the payment to the band there was £800 raised for church funds. Again many thanks to everyone who worked so hard to make it such a good evening.

Gift Day at Isleham - July 16

Thanks to all who have donated contributions to our Gift Day. It is too early yet to say how much we have been given, so thanks to everyone who did and to all those who were in church to receive the gifts.

Celebration in Fordham for the Queen’s birthday - July 9 and 10

There was a lovely atmosphere in church on Saturday as we celebrated this milestone in our Monarch’s life and the service on Sunday was both well attended and meaningful.

Fordham barbecue - June 26

It was lovely to welcome everyone to the Vicarage Garden on Sunday 26 for the annual St. Peter’s Day BBQ.  Thanks to Terry Cross for cooking and to everybody for contributing.

Gift Day at Fordham - June 25

As we write over £1200 has been sent in to the church. Many thanks for such generosity. It is very much appreciated. Trevor is still counting- and we are about £1000 less than last year.

Open Garden and Coffee morning

A super morning at Roger’s home in Mill Lane on  Saturday June 11 and a great sum raised. £240 is the total to be split between the Arthur Rank Hospice and St Peter’s Church. Many thanks to Roger and all who helped make it a great success.

Band, Blossoms and BBQ - May 15 in Isleham

This annual event was held at the St Andrew's Social Centre, Isleham on Sunday May 15.

Featuring the Newmarket Town Band, a full barbecue and homemade desserts, and a licensed bar; all those who attended enjoyed a good time.

Congratulations to Sue and David

Congratulations to Sue and David on the safe arrival of their grandson Sacha for Emily and Phil on Wednesday April 20.

The Student Cross

Prom Praise

Thanks to Roy and Janet Vatcher for organising the super visit to Prom Praise in the Royal Albert Hall.

Dawn service - Easter day

We were part of a well attended  Deanery Lady Day Service at Lode Parish church on Monday 4 April and it was interesting to see the difference the removal of pews at the back of the church has made.

Diocesan Day and AGM is at St. Peter’s, March see Helen Banyard for further details. 01638 721616

Our next branch meeting is on Thursday April 28 at 10.30am at St. Peter’s Snailwell, where Dr Stephen Taylor will tell us the history of our round towered church.  Followed by an optional lunch at the George & Dragon, Snailwell.

A magnificent event with tons of hard work from everybody concerned. Many thanks to Mark and Nettie for leading the community carols on Sunday at 4pm.  Final results as soon as they are known.

See pictures from a previous Festival of Light...

Snailwell Christmas Fayre - December 12 from 2-4pm

A magnificent afternoon. Total so far is over £1800. Again many thanks to everyone who played such an important role.

A lovely evening at Fordham School, many thanks to Roger, Neil Stittle and Stephen Taylor and everyone who helped to make it such a success.

Group Songs of Praise - Sunday October 11 at Fordham

A super evening worship last Sunday, with over 65 parishioners.  It was also very good to see the children from the Fordham School Gospel Choir.  Many thanks to our organists, our musicians and our choirs for leading worship so beautifully.  The music leaders met for their regular lunch last week and we talked about the possibility of doing this again.

Harvest Festivals

Grateful thanks to all who made our churches look so grand for Harvest Festival. The lunches and suppers were excellent, with great food, drink and company.

Our schools and churches have sent over 200 kg of food to our Food Bank, so thanks for your generosity.

Building works - Isleham, Fordham and Chippenham

The builders hope to start on Isleham’s porch and chancel roofs towards the end of October.

At Fordham the builders are currently making the new choir vestry cupboard off site. 

At Chippenham the DAC has approved the plans subject to East Cambs Planning Dept. agreeing too, so that we can start work there too.

A special service at Ely Cathedral on Sunday September 27 to launch the Strategy, Ely 2025. People fully alive. A strategy for growth.

The service to launch the Strategy, Ely 2025. People fully alive. A strategy for growth, was a great service. Now we have to get down to it!

A superb Veterans lunch at the Victoria Hall on Saturday with many from our five parishes present.  Huge thanks to Andrew Mead, who paid for it all, Louize Hurst, Yvette Hill and Anomi and her daughter for helping prepare and serve the food and for the willing band of volunteer helpers and the Fordham Guides who made the event so special.

That evening the concert in church was tremendous.  Thanks to John Pryke and the Charity Group for all their work.  The concert raised over £1600 for the Church, the Fordham Charity Group and The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.  Above all our thanks to Brenda Lee for her inspiration and detailed work in making sure everything went very smoothly.  

Our Commemoration concluded with the Group Service at Fordham, on Sunday September 20. A time with folk from all five churches in our parish, super music, and a good time to give thanks. 

We have purchased a commemorative mug for each primary school child in our parishes, and will give them out soon. 

Syrian refugee crisis prayer vigils on Sunday September 13 

Our Prayer Vigils for the Syrian Refugee Crisis last Sunday, in the churches of Chippenham, Fordham, Isleham and Snailwell went very well. It was good to be in church focussing our thoughts, minds and prayers on this terrible situation. Thanks.  

Installation of the Rev’d Canon Timothy Alban-Jones

It was very good to be at Peterborough Cathedral last Sunday afternoon for the installation of the Rev’d Canon Timothy Alban-Jones as a Residentiary Canon of the cathedral and as Bishop’s Chaplain in our neighbouring diocese. He is settling in very well and sends his regards to all.

There were nearly thirty wedding dresses on display along with other memorabilia of the wedding days. Three dresses are over one hundred years old, another has been worn by three generations of brides.

View a gallery of photos...

An excellent evening once again in Snailwell. Many thanks to all, especially Maureen and her band of helpers, who maede sure everything went well.

70th anniversary of the end of WW2

Replies are coming in, so if you know folk who do not yet received an invitation please do let Mike or Sue or Brenda Lee know.

Fordham School achieved Outstanding rating in its recent SIAMS inspection. (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools).  A great affirmation of what is going on there.

Isleham Gala July 4

Thanks to Angela Wells and Mary Wightman and all who manned and contributed to our church stall at the Gala, we raised over £150.

Open garden and coffee morning - June 27

Many thanks to Roger Palmer for allowing us to look around his beautiful garden and stay for coffee and cake. All very much appreciated and raised over £200 as well. Thanks

St Peter's day lunch at Fordham - June 28

A super lunch in the rain on Sunday, though it did clear up as usual when everyone was leaving. It was good to be together and to be able to thank all those who help so much during the year.

St Andrew's Isleham Clear up day - Saturday June 20

The church has been transformed and much clutter has gone. Huge thanks to all who came along and helped. The flower room and vestry are clear and all the lights now work! Thanks.

Ministry team

It’s a real delight to welcome back Carol Taylor as a Licensed Lay Minister to our Group, and Stephen too. Already we are witnessing their strong and prayerful presence among us. Welcome back. 

Also welcome to Duncan Dalais, a retired priest who lives in Chippenham and who has Permission to Officiate in our Group and across the Diocese too. I am delighted that he will be taking services and assisting us all in our ministries here.

Mothers' Union garden party in Bishop's garden at Ely

Ten members attended the Diocesan Garden Party and enjoyed the setting and the roses. It was an excellent evening with strawberries, shortbread and cream with fizz! The Ely Imps Singing Group entertained us and it was a good opportunity to mix with other MU members.

Urgently seeking an Editor for the Parish News

We are still searching for an editor for the Parish News for Fordham, Kennett and Snailwell to join Laura Watson, as she will be completing her present stint as Editor early this summer. This is an urgent request. Do make suggestions to Mike or Sue.

Ascension Day Group Eucharist at Snailwell at 7.30pm - May 14

The Spurgeon Trundle May 9 2015

On a windy but pleasantly sunny Saturday afternoon at 3 o' clock, some twenty-five men, women, children, and a dog called Abby set off from the duck pond in East Fen Road, Isleham, on the 2015 Spurgeon Trundle. 

For those who haven't heard of the Trundle before, it consists of a leisurely annual walk down East Fen Road, and then along Ferry Drove, to the place at the River Lark where the great Reverend Charles Haddon Spurgeon was Baptised on the 3rd of May in 1850. He had walked all the way from Newmarket to Pound Lane Church - here in Isleham - especially for that occasion. One of Isleham's best-kept secrets is that someone  - we are not sure who - placed a memorial stone on the river bank over forty years ago, to mark the occasion where such an eminent Christian began his Baptised Ministry.

He was known as 'The Prince Of Preachers,' because during his lifetime, he preached to over 10 million people; all this long before the days of radio and television! It's worth looking him up on the internet - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Spurgeon - as he had such an extraordinary career, which has been, and still is, revered worldwide. 

This Trundle has now become an annual Isleham event, and is something like Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales,' in the way that those who made the 'pilgrimage' made friends with each other, chatted about all sorts of things on the way, and shared stories with each other. At the monument itself, there was a short act of worship, beginning with The Lord's Prayer, and then the singing of the hymn, 'Jerusalem,' and 'The Grace,' and finally three cheers for Spurgeon! 

Each 'trundler' was given a brief souvenir handout, which included a photo of last year's 'pilgrims,' some facts about Spurgeon, and an appropriate extract from one of his sermons that he had specially addressed to the farming community. 

Next year, the Trundle will take place on Saturday the 7th of May 7 starting at 3pm,  so put it in your diaries now while you think of it - and, if you've never joined us before, come and do The 2016 Spurgeon Trundle: you'll love it! 

Christopher Goodwins

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting April 28

An excellent meeting at our primary school in Isleham saw some 32 members present. 

There were quite a few apologies this year as the choirs were meeting at Ely to rehearse for the festival in May and it was the sole rehearsal!

All present contributed to an overview of what had been good in the past year and came up with this list:

• Potential at Kennett

• Congregations growing

• Violinist at Snailwell

• Flower Festival at Fordham

• Messy Church and Holiday Clubs

• Heating at Fordham works!

• Carol service at Fordham very good

• Our choirs and new members

• Solvent

• Four young bell ringers at Fordham

• Children at Snailwell

• Sue and David

• Carol and Stephen

• Children in services

• Ministry Team

• Unsung helpers

• Pastoral care for congregation.

Our challenges for the year ahead include:

• Heating that works                          

• Community space Snailwell

• Better facilities in church            

• Sound systems improved

• Toilets in church            

• More service sheets please

• Grow mission                                     

• Up to date prayer lists

• Café church

• Sit at front.

Please share your thoughts with the Ministry Team and with Churchwardens and PCC members about how we can pray our way into the future.

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Summer Holiday Club - Save the Date!

Summer Holiday Club will be held during the week commencing August 10.  Lots of help is needed, more details to follow shortly. Flyers have been sent to all the schoolchildren in our parishes, some 500 in three primary schools.

Jenny Gage licensing - Easter day

Jenny Gage was licensed on Easter Day at Haddenham to the Grunty Fen group. We wish her well in this new stage of her ministry. 

Holy week 

The Student Cross walked through our parishes on Tuesday March 31 and Wednesday April 1. Fordham was the halfway point on their pilgrimage from Epping to Walsingham.

They stayed at Fordham’s Victoria Hall on the Tuesday night. They joined with us for Compline and Address on the Tuesday evening and then after their breakfast, they had  a short service in church at 8am before they set off for Methwold the longest day on their pilgrimage.

It was good to welcome this group to the Parish on Tuesday.  Many thanks to Jenny, Doreen and Barbara for preparing dinner on Tuesday and breakfast on Wednesday morning, really early.  We hope to welcome them again next year.

A big thank you to those who have provided homemade soup and sandwiches and those who have supported these lunches, our final total was over £300 which will go to MU Worldwide projects. 

Carol and Stephen Taylor

I am delighted to let everyone know that Carol Taylor, who many of you will know as a Licensed Lay Minister (Reader) and who lives in Fordham, will be re-joining the Parish after Easter. Stephen will also be re-joining us.

Mike.

There has been a fantastic response to the request for Fairtrade Easter Egg sponsors, and we now have more than enough to give one to each child coming to 'Messy Church'.  Many, many thanks for your generosity.

Fordham PCC Meeting

Tuesday March 3 from 7.30–9pm at the Vicarage.  

Holiday Club Shrove Tuesday

A super time was had by 37 children and a goodly number of helpers in activities, song and fun.  A huge thank you to Sue and all who helped to make it such a success.  The morning finished with pancakes, of course, and our fervent hope that many will return for our holiday club  in the summer.

New roof for the Social Centre at St Andrew's Isleham

Many thanks for the most generous gift of a new roof for the Social Centre at St Andrew’s in Isleham. A parishioner saw the state of the roof, and offered to pay for complete re-roofing, so THANKS. It is all very much appreciated, and the roof looks great too. The builders also put new insulation in the roof and evicted the squirrels.

Three Rivers' Weddings Lunch - February 1

Our Weddings lunch was great last Sunday at Chippenham Village Hall. Many thanks to Jenny Bowen, and Doreen and Barbara who all helped with the lunch which was excellent. Thanks too to Sue who was at this event for the first time.

All the couples who came, and we were 28 for lunch, found it helpful and informative. Sometimes you will see the couples in church, especially if they are coming to our churches in order to make the connections in the six months before their wedding. This year we have 18 weddings and blessings, and the first was in the middle of January.

Mothers' Union Craft and cookery demonstration and lunch - January 12

Many thanks to Gaynor for hosting our craft and coffee morning last week and for the scone making demonstration, we all enjoyed tasting the delicious results afterwards!  This was followed by lunch at La Hogue.

The Festival of Light at Isleham - December 6/7 and 13/14

The annual festival of Light at St Andrew's Isleham took place this year on the weekends of December 6/7 and December 13/14.

There was a stunning display of about forty decorated illuminated Christmas trees. 

There was a Christmas Fayre on December 6, and on December 14 a Carol Service.

You can view some more photos from the displays in previous years.

 

Mothers' Union Christmas lunch - December 8

Sixteen members enjoyed a lot of excellent food and laughter in a lovely location at The Beeches, Isleham.

Schools news

Our schools are very busy and are preparing for their Christmas plays and services.

Isleham came to church on Friday for their Christingle, Kennett have theirs next week and Fordham are coming to church for their end of term service on the 18th. 

There was the first of many farewells to Kevin Bullock at Fordham last Saturday. Kevin has been our head for 20 years and has made an outstanding contribution with his staff to the lives of so many in Fordham. We wish him and Christine a very happy retirement. Thanks.

Flower Arranging - November 25

A big thank you to Gaynor Ryan for demonstrating and teaching others to arrange a Christmas Table Centre, ably assisted by Jenny Bowen. A delightful, relaxing evening, enjoyed by all who attended and a request for another similar evening nearer Easter was suggested. Money donated will go to MU charities.

Work starts on the Social Centre roof at St Andrew's Isleham

Work has started to repair the roof of the Social Centre at St Andrew's Isleham.

Work continues at Fordham 

Work continues at Fordham on replacing weathered stonework at the three windows on the north aisle, on the Tower internal steps, and on stonework over the toilets. If you see men working there this next week, they are meant to be there.  

Becca's licensing - October 20 at Haslingfield

Rev’d Becca Gilbert was licensed in the Lordship Group on Monday 20 October at 7.30pm at Haslingfield Church.  Thanks to all who attended from the Three Rivers group churches. 

Works at Fordham St Peter & St Mary Magdalene

The Chancellor has now approved our faculty for the works to the church, so we will hope to set the works in progress very soon. Again, grateful thanks to Diane Catchpole who has completed all the necessary preparatory work.

Chippenham St Margaret clean up - November 8

A clean up morning at church on Saturday November 8 starting at 9.30am. There is plenty to do, so bring your brushes and dusters. All welcome!

Fordham St Peter & St Mary Magdalene - works

The Chancellor has now approved our faculty for the works to the church, so we will hope to set the works in progress very soon. Again, grateful thanks to Diane Catchpole who has completed all the necessary preparatory work.

Peter Maxwell appointed Lay Canon

Great congratulations to Peter Maxwell, Churchwarden at Chippenham and Deanery Lay Chair, on his appointment by the Bishop as a Lay Canon of Ely Cathedral. Peter will be installed on November 25 at Evensong at the Cathedral.

Peter makes a substantial, significant and much appreciated contribution to the life of the parish, the Deanery and the Diocese too, so we are all delighted.

An Evening of History, Music, Readings and Poetry

The two evenings, in commemoration of The Events of World War One, were excellent, thought provoking and challenging. Many thanks to Ashley Brown and Paul Mangell for co-ordinating the evenings, and for their contribution to the Three Rivers Flower Festival at Fordham in the previous week.

Fordham Garden Club Annual Show - September 13

It is very good to welcome the Garden Club which is so strong in Fordham into church for their annual show. There was an encouraging  number of entries for most classes.

Chippenham fete and Fun day - September 7  

An excellent Sunday afternoon in Chippenham Park with many activities for all ages. Not sure what the final figure is yet. It was very good to see the whole community coming together. Many thanks to Becca and Hugo Nicolle for the use of the Park, and Terry Cross and all his helpers for their vision and hard work.

Rev'd Sue Potts to join the Three Rivers Group

Sue and David Potts moved into Chippenham Vicarage this week. She finishes at the Raddesley Group on the September 14 and starts with us on the September 28.

Christian Aid Walk and collection 2014

The Christian Aid Walk and collection made over £1000 – way up on last year.

Visit by Sheringham Mothers' Union - July 11 

Janice Pope and members of Sheringham MU visited Ely and Isleham on Friday July 11. They met up with the Three Rivers Group MU for Afternoon Tea in the gardens of the Social Centre followed by a service at St. Andrew’s Church, Isleham. 

St Peter's  Preservation Trust - Sunday July 6

Seeley House picnic  was excellent on Sunday afternoon. Good food, super company and I am sure we will have raised a goodly sum for the Preservation Trust. Many thanks to Anne Newport for hosting this event and making sure we were all well fed.

A concert performance of Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro 
Cambridge Operatic Society Isle of Ely Arts Festival in church - July 6

The Isle of Ely Festival performance of this Mozart opera on  Sunday evening was another excellent, well attended event. Though quite long, the performance was in English which makes it more accessible. Great singers, super orchestra. I hope they will come again.

St Peter's Day Barbecue - Sunday June 29

The weather was very wet for the BBQ last Sunday. The gardeners amongst us were delighted. Everyone else was damp and cold. It did NOT spoil the fun though and some 45 turned up for a super meal cooked by Neil and his team from Carter Street. As the last person left the Vicarage, the rain stopped and the sun came out!!

Gift day at Fordham - June 28

Gift day at Fordham was on Saturday June 28. Over £500 was donated even before the day. Thanks to all who have been so generous. Over £2,900 so far. A brilliant result. 

Discipleship Group - met first on June 26

At the final meeting of the afternoon Lent Group, we agreed we’d like to continue meeting for Bible study, prayer and discussion once a month.

We’re got together again on Thursday June 26, at the Vatcher’s (96 The Causeway, Isleham).  We agreed to meet regularly on the last Thursday of the month at 2pm.

All are welcome to this group, regardless of whether you came to the Lent group, or where you live or worship. 

Three Rivers Group Mothers’ Union

Thanks so much to Malcolm and Liz Barber for inviting us to their home for a super and illuminating talk on the Knights Templars.  It was both fascinating and informative and we could have stayed much longer and heard more.  Perhaps we can persuade him to give a further talk sometime in the future.

Gareth Wood

Gareth’s family would like to thank everyone for donating so generously in his memory.  These donations amounted to £1200 and have been shared between Arthur Rank Hospice, Ely and District Nursing Team and Staploe Medical Fund.

Open Garden  at 78 Mill Lane - June 14

A huge vote of thanks to Roger for inviting us all to his lovely garden in Mill Lane.  It is a wonderful space with the River Snail running through. We all had a great time – and £320 was raised - so thank you once again.

Deanery Evensong at Isleham - June 8 

It was great to welcome Bishop Stephen and so many others from the churches across the deanery.  Our worship was great and the social time afterwards was a tremendous opportunity to get to know each other better.  See you at the next one!

Ascension Day - May 29

It was good to meet at Snailwell on Thursday last for this great festival.

Christian Aid walk - Bank Holiday Monday May 26

About twenty of us gathered at Chippenham Village Hall for a 2.30pm start and walked across Chippenham Fen to Fordham Church, some with sponsorship towards Christian Aid. And a few walked back again. Thanks to those who kindly provided refreshments at Fordham.

Christian Aid Week - May 11-17

There are envelopes available in church to donate to Christian Aid – please give generously.  These can be returned with the normal collection any Sunday in the next month, or given to Amy Bridgeman (Isleham) or Trevor Hill (Fordham) or Jenny Gage.  Please also take extra envelopes for family and friends.  

Band & Barbecue at Isleham - Sunday May 18

Newmarket Town Band & Barbecue at St Andrew's Social Centre Isleham. A super afternoon last Sunday with over £911 raised for Church funds. Thanks to everyone who worked so hard to make this a success.

Withers’ Collection Concerts at Fordham Church - May 17 & 18

It is very good to welcome our performers and audience to the concerts. Gareth Wood organised these earlier in the year and they are a more than fitting memorial to his patronage of the Arts in this area.  Thanks to him and to Judith too.

Mothers’ Union lent lunches

A big thank you to all who supported the Lent Lunches. We are pleased to report that our three lent lunches made £350. This money has been divided between two MU appeals.

• The Wheels Appeal helping the MU Community Development Coordinators worldwide to travel long distances and often through difficult conditions to provide training and help start community projects.

• AFIA – holidays at Hunstanton for families in the Ely Diocese who would not otherwise be able to afford a holiday.

Joint PCC Meeting - May 13

It was very good to have Alan Williams, Brenda and Harold visiting on Tuesday at the Joint PCC meeting to give us an overview of the Foodbank Movement.  We have several points of collection in our villages and churches and keep up to date through the pewsheet with current needs.  In Isleham Christopher Goodwins is a voucher holder and Mike and Jenny are also voucher holders for the whole of the Group.  If you know of anybody in any kind of need do put them in touch with us.

The Outreach Group had its first meeting on Wednesday February 12 in Fordham. Discussion focused on our outreach beyond our local community through Fair Trade and Christian Aid, and to our local community through the Foodbank, and through what we can offer directly.  

We are aware however that we don’t always communicate what is happening in our churches to the wider community as well as we might, and this is an area for further discussion, as is support for those who are lonely or isolated.  

Please do discuss these issues – and communicate them to your representatives (ask, if you don’t know who they are!)  so that they can bring your views to our next meeting, which is on 1 May.

Kennett Family Service 

Weddings lunch - January 26

Our weddings lunch was a great occasion last Sunday afternoon with 14 of our this year’s weddings couples joining us for a super lunch prepared and served by Jenny Bowen, Barbara Whitwood and Doreen Rule (huge thanks to them), and then discussion about the details of the wedding day and relationships led by Jenny Gage and myself.

The Withers’ Collection viewing on Friday, January 24 was great. 

Gareth has done an amazing amount of work to make this happen and to move the exhibition from the Victoria Hall to the church. It is now by the window in Withers memory too. Thanks to him and everyone else involved, especially Ren Bowen.

There will be concerts on May 17 and 18 in church to celebrate.

A big thank you to Gaynor Ryan, who hosted our January Craft and Coffee Morning on Monday.  Over 20 people attended and Gaynor demonstrated a quick and easy method of making soda bread, which was very popular.

Our next meeting is at Newmarket Hat Hire, Carter Street, Fordham on Monday 24 February at 10 am. to view the new season’s hats, followed by lunch at Fordham Garden Centre Cafe.

The committee would like to thank members and supporters who attended the Lent Lunches and Coffee Mornings during 2013.  We were able to send £150 each to AFIA (which provides holidays for underprivileged families) and the Wheels Appeal (which supports MU workers in Africa who require transport to do their work) and £200 towards providing school uniforms for children in Rwanda.  

Thanks also goes to those who knit for premature babies at the Rosie Hospital and save stamps to help the Church in South Sudan.

Christmas

Many thanks to all our musicians and bell ringers, decorators, flower arrangers, cleaners, and those who have made and served refreshments for making our churches such welcoming and inviting places for the many who joined us for worship at Christmas tide; over 2,000 joined us at one service or another.

Christmas is a time to refocus our lives and thinking on what is at the heart of our lives here, a love for God, for self and for each other. Let’s continue to follow Christ’s way through the year.

David Kightley

The funeral service for the late Rev’d David Kightley was held on Friday December 20 at 2pm at Chippenham Church and afterwards at Chippenham Village Hall.

David was Priest in Charge of Isleham, Chippenham and Snailwell, and lived in Chippenham from 1976 - 1996. Much loved, he built up the congregation at Isleham from a handful to around 70. He had excellent relationships with the High St and Pound Lane churches.

Isleham Post Office

Thanks to Les, John, and Peter, for paving and putting up the fence to make a clearer area and preserve the orchard. 

All the leases have now been signed, and Gary has lost his “minder” inside so is now very much on his own. I am hoping and praying that everyone will be very patient. There is much to learn. 

The Social Centre is taking on a new lease of life, and many thanks to Geoff and his team for all the hard work inside. It is making a huge difference and is very much appreciated.

St. Peter’s Preservation Trust

A grand evening with French Canapes demonstrated by Anne Newport.  Thank you. We raised over £340. Great.

Festival of Light at St Andrew's Isleham - December 7&8 , 14&15

The Christmas Market was on Saturday December 7 and the Christmas trees were in place for both weekends of this great festival.

A memorable and moving community carol service ended the two weekends. Grateful thanks to everyone who made it possible and who contributed. Over £1,700 has been so far.

Christmas market at Chippenham

Was another splendid occasion and a lovely festive atmosphere.  The total raised is around the £2,000 mark which has made a big difference to the finances.  Many thanks to everyone who worked so hard.

Kennnett St Nicholas' Supper

An excellent evening with superb food and drink, an intriguing quiz and the usual huge draw. We raised £544.  Again grateful thanks to all who made it possible.

Isleham Christingle service - December 6

We welcomed Isleham school to church for the annual Christingle Service, the collection raised raised £350 for the Childrens’ Society.  Thanks to all for their generosity. 

St Peter’s Preservation Trust

A grand evening with French Canapes demonstrated by Anne Newport.  We learned a great deal and had a brilliant time.  Thank you.

St Peter's Snailwell Christmas Fayre

Was a super time with much support from the whole community.  Many thanks to all who helped to make it such a success.

The new Isleham Post Office - opened December 5

The new Isleham Post Office at the St Andrew's Social Centre was officially opened by the Venerable John Beer, Archdeacon of Cambridge, on Thursday December 5.

The new Post Office will be open from 9am-5.30pm Monday to Friday and from 9am-12.30pm on Saturday.

There will be restrictions on parking at the Social Centre, at least during Post Office opening hours, to avoid damage to the gardens.

Christmas Market in the church at Chippenham - December 6

The Christmas Market was on Friday December 6 from 6–9pm. 

St Nicholas' Supper - December 7

Kennett St Nicholas' Supper was on Saturday December 7.  

The new Isleham Post Office - opened December 5

The new Isleham Post Office opened at St Andrew's Social Centre on Thursday December 5.  Our Archdeacon, John Beer, ‘cut the ribbon’.  W

Mothers' Union 

A big thank you to everyone who supported the Deanery Afternoon meeting with our Diocesan President speaking of her recent trip to one of our link dioceses, Kilgali in Rwanda. 

St Nicholas Kennett - October 5-6

A wonderful weekend at Kennett with a comprehensive clearout.  Many thanks to the 24 who turned up last Saturday to help clear inside and outside the church, it made a huge difference.  

The Harvest Service saw 29 people worshipping together; a most encouraging development.

We are praying for the growth of the church here in Kennett, so please do join us in our prayer. 

Services will continue at Kennett, usually on the first Sunday of each month (but not November, Remembrance being on November 10, nor December, when the Carol Service with Newmarket Band will be on December 13) and will usually be All Age Worship. 

Holy Communion services will be on Monday mornings at Mary Deary’s house.  

Fordham - Harvest Bring and Share Supper

The Harvest Bring and Share Supper with quiz was a super evening, so many thanks to Jackie and her committee for organizing it.

Coffee morning raises £545

Congratulations to Carol Noble for a fabulous Coffee Morning which so far has raised £545.  A super morning and a fantastic result, thanks.

Mothers’ Union AGM - Thursday September 26

Our AGM is on Thursday September 26 at Fordham Victoria Hall at 7.30pm.  Margaret Smith will be enrolled and we will be welcoming Beryl Coleman, who has transferred from a Leicester MU branch.  

Following the ‘business’, there will be a time for discussion, with tea/coffee and cake.  As we are planning our 2014 programme we are open to suggestions so either come to the AGM or phone Helen Banyard 721616.  Everyone is welcome to our meeting, do bring a friend with you.

King's College Festival - Saturday September 21

The Choir at Fordham, and all who joined them at Kings College had a wonderful time.

David and Carol Shippey came from Cromer where they live. They entertained us royally. Many thanks to them and all who turned up for this concert.

Ride, Drive & Stride 2013 -September 14

Rich Gilbert would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who supported him on the Ride and Stride, through sponsorship, church manning or prayer! A (mostly) following wind sent him on a wing and a prayer from Ely on a route that took in 44 churches and 72 miles, before rolling to a halt at Swaffham Prior. The provisional total looks to be in excess of £200 - thank you everyone! Please do pass on any sponsor money to Becca or Rich. 

Funds raised are shared between the Group and Cambridgeshire Historic Churches Trust, who organise the event.  

Messy Church - started Sunday September 8

Last week, we started  Messy Church in Fordham. 15 children and their parents turned up for an afternoon of craft, play, worship and food. A great team of helpers led under Becca’s supervision. 

We will do Messy Church once a month every month from now on. If you know anyone who would like to take part, or you would like to help in any way please do speak to one of the Ministry Team, but Becca in the first instance.

Joint PCC Meeting - September 3

At our joint PCC on Tuesday at Fordham School, members discussed some ideas for future activities. 

These centred around suggestions for:

• A meditative Eucharist once a month

• The development of the prayer corners in our churches

• Reading the whole Bible in three months

• Social Justice, centred around the new Soham Food Bank

• Quiet Gardens and Churchyards

The discussion was in threes and we tried to be in groups not from our own churches, so we could spread ideas. We also asked everyone to put in some other new ideas or make suggestions. 

Jenny Gage has summarised the results of the meeting and we will publish those in detail once that is completed. There was lively discussion among all the members, so we are hoping for some of these new ideas to be taken up. 

The Soham Food Bank is an offshoot from the Ely Food Bank, as they discovered that a quarter of those asking for help came from Soham, so a branch has been set up there. We have leaflets and much more information about the bank, so we are hoping that perhaps some of our produce from the Harvest Festivals at the end of September might go there. Decisions soon!

Summer Social at St. Andrew’s Church - Saturday and Sunday, August 24 and 25

The annual St Andrew's Church Summer Social was held at the Social Centre over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Many thanks to all who ran and supported this great weekend.  We raised over £1,300, so a welcome addition to church funds.

Pyramid Rock

Pyramid Rock Was a tremendous experience both for the young people who took part (some 30 in all) and for the parishes!! This is the first time we have mounted a Holiday Club for some time. They used to be held in both Isleham and Fordham in the past. It was good too to have such a supportive group of adults leading each of the three groups, contributing to games and sport, leading the music, providing the refreshments, organising the crafts and being prepared to help those who might be injured (mercifully that skill was not called on much).

The group service on Sunday at Fordham was both well attended and a real delight. It was good to share refreshments after the service and then for so many to be at the BBQ in the Vicarage Garden to celebrate the end of the week. 

Becca and Rich and so many others played a great role in ensuring this was a huge success. THANKS. It is and was very much appreciated. 

Galaxy Big Band at Snailwell - Saturday August 3 

Thanks to everyone who made this such an amazing evening. The music was superb, the weather kind and clement, good company and great food and wine. Special thanks to Shamus and Jean Flack for the use of the paddock once again. 

The total raised was over £2,500 so a very welcome addition to Church funds and for the Galaxy Big Band too, who share the proceeds with us.

Three Rivers Mothers’ Union -August 7 and 9

Had a great outing to Shelford, visiting the Scotsdales Garden Centre there on Wednesday August 7.

Burwell MU held a Deanery Coffee Morning on Friday August 9. A good morning.  

New priest

The Archdeacon did not receive any applications for our House for Duty Post. 

Mike has had a further discussion with the Archdeacon and we will advertise again in September and see whether there are any applicants then. The Archdeacon, John Beer, reassured us that this does happen quite often! Do talk with Mike if you would like to know more, or have any views about our new priest.

Gift Day - St Andrew's Isleham - July 20

Thanks to all who have made contributions and those who helped man the church on Saturday.

Three Rivers Mothers’ Union day trip to Sheringham - July 16

Members and friends enjoyed a lovely day trip to Sheringham last Tuesday.  It was a beautiful day and we enjoyed the scenery from our coach. Janice Pope and her husband, Brian who retired to Sheringham last year met us and we would recommend The Mulberry for an excellent lunch.  

We enjoyed window shopping as we made our way to St. Peter’s Church, where we joined with MU members from Sheringham and Roughton Branches for a short service. 

A strawberry tea followed which gave us an excellent opportunity to socialise and use their lovely church room and its facilities.  

A big thank you to Betty Ashley, her husband Allan, Janice and Brian Pope, Jenny Bowen and our hostesses for a memorable day.

Bell ringers Thanksgiving 25 years of new bells at Fordham 
Evensong July 7

A splendid, well attended service giving thanks on this anniversary of our new bells.  Many thanks to all who contributed and made it such a moving occasion.

Isleham Gala - July 6

An excellent day in gorgeous weather, thoroughly enjoyed by everybody.  Many thanks to all who ran the church stall and made a good sum.

New priest

The advertisement for a House for Duty Priest to join our team has been put in the Church Times on Fridays June 28 and July 5. The group helping in the process will be short listing with the Archdeacon in late July, and we will hold interviews at the start of September. Please pray for all those involved in the process, and for those who will apply.

Chippenham Vicarage

Work continues with the improvements to the vicarage and we hope will be finished soon. The new House for Duty priest will be based there.  

St Peter’s Day BBQ

A wonderful Sunday with over 40 people enjoying sunshine, good food and wine and great conversation.  We thanked the magazine distributors for all their work too.  Many thanks to Ren and Jenny, Roger and Trevor, Terry Cross for the tent and Rob and Gill Savage for the cooking.

Isleham Church Cleaning and Maintenance Morning - June 22

Many thanks to all who help with the start of the clear up. A good deal was accomplished, and we now have a very good plan for completing the works mentioned in the Quinquennial report.

Isleham Post Office relocation

The discussions about re-siting the Post Office and sorting office in the Social Centre continue and we hope that wee will have a clear plan for the PCC meeting on July 8.

Mothers' Union news

Our coffee morning to raise funds for MU projects at Eileen Page's home in Chippenham raised nearly £120. many thanks to Eileen and Tony for hosting the morning and all who contributed to the great final total.

Two new members, Liz Barber and Jenny Flatt, were enrolled by Becca Gilbert,  at our meeting where Helen gave a talk about the workings of the Mothers' Union from local branch, to Deanery, to Diocese, National through to Mary Sumner House in London and our international membership - over four million in all.

Jenny's licensing at Chippenham - June 2 

It was super to welcome Bishop David at Evensong on Sunday as he licensed Jenny as Associate Priest in the Group. Thanks for all your support.

Archdeacon's Visitation - St Andrew's Isleham - May 29

The Archdeacon's Visitation to swear in the churchwardens took place at St Andrew's Isleham on Wednesday May 29 at 7.30pm. Over 80 people attended.

May Fayre at Fordham - May 18

The May Fayre at Fordham raised over £1400 for church funds.

Many thanks to all who helped to make this such a lovely event.  Special thanks to Fordham  school for their great contribution.

Isleham Bands and Blossoms - May 19

Isleham Bands and Blossoms in the Social Centre garden last Sunday worked extremely well. It was good to see so many there, and to welcome old friends Brian and Janice Pope among many others. The afternoon, in glorious and unexpected sunny weather raised over £900. Many thanks to Newmarket Town Band & everyone who helped.

Mothers' Union Deanery Coffee Morning

A Deanery coffee morning at Chippenham was enjoyed by members from our Deanery MU groups from Burwell, Soham and the Anglesey Group (made up of the five villages around Bottisham).  An excellent opportunity to meet other members and buy from a variety of stalls.  A big thank you to all the stall holders and those who brought or bought.  We raised £150 for MU projects.

Joint PCC 14 May

Many thanks to Kevin and Chris Bullock, Head at Fordham School for speaking to Council members about Church School. 

Ascension Day - Thursday  May 9

The Group Eucharist was held at Kennett and we flew kites after the service. 

St Andrew's Isleham Fabric Committee

The Fabric Committee did a lot of great work in the planning for the nave roof repair and electricity system refurbishment at St Andrew's and we would like to resurrect it. Its remit will cover the planning of work that might need to be done to the Fabric and applications for grants.  We would like to invite people interest in playing a part to offer their assistance to Nick Carver or Rob Savage.

The visit to the Spurgeon baptismal stone - May 3 

Christopher Goodwins writes: About forty men, women and children - representatives and others from Pound Lane Church, High Street Church, and The Three Rivers Group - met in East Fen Road on Friday afternoon, May 3, for a leisurely half-hour trundle along Ferry Drove to the River Lark, by kind permission of Mr Derrick Beckett.

This novel event was planned to mark what we believe may have been the fortieth anniversary of the siting of a memorial stone, marking the place where the Reverend Charles Haddon Spurgeon was baptised by total immersion in the River Lark on that very day in 1850. 

He earned the title of 'The Prince Of Preachers,' because his sermons proved to be the most powerful means of persuading thousands of people to become Christians.

The ecumenical trundle was a relaxed and pleasant occasion in bright sunshine, and a wonderful way of making friends, and getting to know one another. A small souvenir publication was given to all present, with illustrations of former baptisms there, the ferry, Spurgeon himself, and other interesting photos; and Mr Dave Hall, of Pound Lane Church, spent a moment highlighting some of the facts about Spurgeon's great Ministry.

It was surprising, however, that nobody seemed to know for certain who put the stone there, who paid for it, or who planned it. 

Even more surprising is the fact that so few people today even know of its existence, and few have ever seen it. Of all the things that Isleham is known for, the guide books are remarkably silent about the huge importance to the Christian Church of the Baptism of this remarkable clergyman. 

Our 2013 visit was held to be such a success that we have been asked to make it an annual occasion. Next year, May 3 falls on a Saturday. Now that we all have a year's notice, maybe we could arrange to have our choirs, a brass band, and some hearty hymn-singing at the Spurgeon baptismal stone? Maybe a different aspect of his Ministry each year could be featured, maybe some snippets from some of his sermons, and full Media coverage? 

Do let us have your ideas, photos, thoughts, and suggestions about next year's visit. But please don't delay – because next May 3  is only about a year away!

Want to know more about Charles Spurgeon?:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Spurgeon

http://www.spurgeon.org/aboutsp.htm

The Diocesan Advisory Committee visit - Fordham and Chippenham

The Diocesan Advisory Committee visited Fordham and Chippenham to review our plans for our buildings.  The Archdeacon has given us immediate permission to alter the Lady Chapel at Fordham for an experimental period, so we have set those changes in motion. 

This week Jason has been in church with Roger and Mike moving the altar rail in the Lady Chapel.  The other work needed to create a simpler worship space will be completed soon, and the Friday 8.30am Holy Communion will move to the re-ordered Lady Chapel at the beginning of May.  

Three Rivers Group Annual Meeting - 15 April

The Annual Report is available on request from Mike or Carol Noble.

It was so good to see so many representing all our churches at the annual meeting on Monday at Isleham School,  to reflect on the past year and to discern where God is leading us in the year ahead. Thanks.

Lent lunches

The Lent lunches at Fordham, Isleham and Chippenham were well attended and the money raised will go towards Mothers’ Union projects abroad and in the UK.   

Cross Roads

If you read The Shack a couple of years ago, and found it stimulating, the author has written a new book called Cross Roads, in a similar style. It is equally stimulating and well worth a read.

Chippenham Vicarage

Work has now started on rebuilding the wall; it will take some time. Work on the interior will start soon.

Church Wardens’ meeting February 27

We had a very productive meeting with all the Church Wardens on Wednesday.  A huge vote of thanks to them for all they do in maintaining and growing the vibrant life of our communities.  

Bishop Stephen

Bishop Stephen is now out of hospital and recovering at home.  We will be sending a card from the Group to wish him all the best.  Please keep praying for him as he recovers.

Baptism visitors group - March 1

The Baptism visitors group met at Fordham Vicarage on Friday March 1.

Mothers' Union Coffee and craft morning

Many thanks to Judy Abbott for hosting our recent coffee and craft morning.  We made over £80. 

Weddings 2013  - January 27

Our annual lunch for this year’s wedding couples was a super occasion, with many of them able to come and talk through their Big Day. Many thanks to Jenny Bowen, Doreen Rule and Barbara Whitwood for the lovely lunch, much appreciated by us all. If you would like to know more about our ministry for weddings then do ask.

Joint PCC meetings in 2013

The Joint PCC’s this year will be from 7.30-9pm on

• Tuesday May 14

• Tuesday September 3  

The Rev’d Rebecca Gilbert 

The Rev’d Rebecca Gilbert started her ministry with us last Sunday at the Ride and Stride New Year Service in Fordham.

Rebecca is already a priest and has completed the first part of her curacy at St Mary’s in Ely (where her training incumbent is now leaving), and has been on maternity leave in 2012.  Bishop David will come and issue her license as soon as that can be arranged. 

Christmas services 

Christmas services in all our churches were a real delight.  Our churches were full and it was good to see so many worshipping with us, both at Christmas and in December.  

There will be an opportunity to discuss and review the format of our Advent and Christmas celebrations at our PCC meetings during January.  If you have any thoughts or helpful reflections on our pattern of services then please do speak to Mike and/or the churchwardens.

Kate’s Institution -Tuesday December 18 

A lovely evening when 35 members of our churches went to Great Hormead to support Kate, Daniel, Emma and Alice at Kate’s institution as Priest-in-Charge of her new parishes there. Thanks to everyone who came. It was a great evening.

Isleham Festival of Light - December 8 & 9 and 15 & 16

A wonderful two weekends of the whole community coming together to celebrate Advent and all our preparations for Christmas. The Carol Service last Sunday was super, so a big vote of thanks to all who made it works so well. Total raised is still being counted so as soon as we know we’ll let you know too. Thanks.

If you have never been been this year you missed an impressive display of nearly 40 illuminated Christmas trees, donated and decorated by local groups and businesses.

Click here to view some pictures of the Festival of Light in 2007

There were more than 45 Christmas trees on display in 2010 as shown in the panoramic image below.

Click and drag to rotate the panorama, and use the + and - keys to zoom in and out.

Chippenham Christmas Candlelight Market - December 7

A wonderfully successful evening with a full church and a lovely variety of stalls to get us all in the Advent and Christmas spirit; a great financial result too, so thanks.

Snailwell Christmas Fair - December 8

A lovely afternoon with the community gathered together and a financial result significantly better than last year, again many thanks.

St Nicholas’ Supper & Quiz Kennett  - December 8

A lovely evening and a full schoolroom with good food, good fun and good company and a substantial boost to church funds, thanks.

Festival of Light at Isleham - December 8 and 9

A bustling and purposeful atmosphere in the church for the Christmas Market and the Light.  A super weekend of activity and many visitors enjoying the festival.  This weekend sees its culmination and the community Carol Service on Sunday at 4pm.

Sundays@6 becomes Sundays@7

Sundays@6 becomes Sundays@7 as we join forces with St Andrew's Soham.

We will in future meet alternately in Isleham and Soham. 

Join us for a new year of events for fun, food and faith.

Year 6-11 welcome. 

Upcoming dates: 

January 13 - at 7pm an 'Icebreaker' meeting at the Old Vicarage, Isleham opposite the church.

January 27 - at 7pm 'Murder in the Dark' at St Andrew's, Soham.

For more information please speak to the Rev’d Mike Banyard on 01638-721616, the Rev'd Tim Alban-Jones on 01353-720423.

Or join our Facebook page Sundays@7.

Keyboard Lessons

Geoff Symon, professional organist and teacher, is keen to encourage church musicians living in the parishes.  He is happy to teach keyboard players in their own homes.  Beginners and all grades are welcome.  All styles of music are encouraged.  Give him a call on 0785 259 6351.

Canon Tim Elbourne's final services - November 25

Congratulations to Canon Tim Elbourne, who has been appointed as Diocesan Director of Education in the Diocese of Chelmsford. 

Tim has been in Ely since 1998, and has been Associate Priest here in the Three Rivers Group for the past 12 years. His ministry has been highly valued here and we shall all miss him. 

Tim’s final services were last Sunday, November 25 at Isleham at 9.30am, and then at Chippenham, with Snailwell, at 6.30pm followed by a reception where he was presented with a selection of 'Essex-themed' gifts, including spray-on fake tan and a guide to Estuary English.

Three Rivers Mothers’ Union new banner

Our new branch banner was blessed at the Holy Communion Service held at Chippenham Church on Monday 12th November.  It was paraded at the Commissioning Service on Saturday 24th at Ely Cathedral. 

Revised Architect plans for Fordham

The architect has revised and amended the plans in line with our requests.  Please scrutinise the new plan (on the notice board) carefully, as we want to make sure that the work to be carried out is to the highest standards and meets the needs of the church here.

Fare Well service and lunch for Kate, Daniel, Emma & Alice - October 28

It was wonderful last Sunday to see so many worshipping in Fordham church, representing all five parishes. The joint choir sang very well, the Chippenham Cherubs were splendid and Kate’s sermon was one of her very best.  The lunch at the Victoria Hall was overflowing with people, excellent food, good wine and a tremendous atmosphere.  The churches here gave some splendid gifts to the whole family including a unique photo montage of all five churches.

A huge vote of thanks to all who made the service and lunch such an uplifting occasion.  The bell ringers rang Kate out on Saturday with a joyous ring!

Harvest

It was so good to welcome our three schools into church for their Harvest Festivals. Over 600 children, staff, parents and grandparents attended at Fordham, Isleham & Kennett. A further 250 attended our Harvest Festivals, all followed by Harvest Suppers. Thanks to everyone who contributed, delivered produce and made Harvest such a time of thanksgiving for all.

The Mothers’ Union AGM - September 17

The Mothers’ Union AGM took place on Monday. The Committee members were thanked for their work and support during the year. The members enjoyed a time of discussion of important times in their lives and interests they have enjoyed.

Pewsheet
If you have items for inclusion in the pewsheet then do speak to any of the Ministry Team or ring Carol on Wednesday mornings, when, usually, it is compiled. Thanks.

Brief report from Joint PCC meeting - September 4 

Our second joint PCC meeting was last Tuesday at our church school in Fordham. 

The PCCs approved a new service pattern to take effect later this year, and some of our churches also discussed the qualities they would seek in a new priest to minister in our parishes. 

Mike and Helen will move to Fordham, and improvements are to be carried out at the Vicarage in Chippenham. 

The PCCs also elected one rep from each church to work with Mike on the detail of the stipendiary post vacant in our ministry team. More details soon, but do please talk to the Ministry team if you have specific questions.

St Andrew's Summer Social weekend - August 25 & 26

A great weekend of activities last week at Isleham to welcome cyclists from Mildenhall, and many others too. We raised about £1,300. Thanks to all who worked so hard!

MU Outing to Horningsea - August 21

The Three Rivers Mothers' Union  had an excellent outing to Horningsea garden centre last Tuesday. Many thanks to chauffeuses Jenny and Jackie. 

Church wardens meeting - August 14

The Church Wardens met at Chippenham Vicarage on 14 August 14with the Rural Dean to talk about how we might augment the Ministry Team and organise ministry in the Group after Kate leaves later in the year. Full details at the joint PCC meeting on September 4.

Galaxy Big Band, Picnic & Autumn Draw – Snailwell August 11

The event was a great success and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone present. Final details of how much we raised are still being worked out. 

Many thanks to Maureen and all those in Snailwell who have worked so hard to make sure that the event turned out so well.

Christian Aid

£296 was raised at Isleham and among all our churches in May. Many thanks to Jenny and Amy for organising this.

Open Gardens Event at Chippenham Park - June 24

St Margaret’s Chippenham had a great day doing teas at the Park, raising £500. Many thanks to all who helped.

St Peter & St Mary Magdalene Fordham BBQ - June 24

Another very good social occasion. The weather cannot deter us! Thanks to all who contributed.

St Peter & St Mary Magdalene, Fordham Gift Day - June 23

£2,100 was given most generously on our gift day. Again our grateful thanks to all who contributed and all who made the day such a success.

Three Rivers Mothers' Union Coffee Morning - June 19

Thank you to Eileen and Tony Page for hosting our coffee morning on Tuesday 19 June. We made approximately £80 so thank you very much to all who came and supported it.

Come and Sing Evensong - Isleham June 9

The "Come and Sing evensong" organised by the Archdeaconry of Cambridge Church Music Society on the theme of A Summer Of Celebration at St. Andrew’s, Isleham yesterday was a splendid event. It was open to singers in the Archdeaconry. Music included works by Purcell and Stanford. Many thanks to Mark Liversidge for making this happen in our parish.

Jubilee Big Lunch and Songs of Praise - Chippenham June 3

A fantastic lunch in spite of the rain at Chippenham with a rousing Songs of Praise at the beginning. Over 90 at the service and then full to overflowing for the Hog Roast and picnic lunch.

Jubilee Songs of Praise - Fordham June 3

Our evening United Songs of Praise at Fordham joined the Parish Church with the Congregational Church. Hymns chosen by many different groups in the village, made for a memorable service with over 80 including Scout and Guide groups, followed by bubbly to toast Her Majesty the Queen, on this her Diamond Jubilee.

Joint PCC Meeting - May 15

An excellent start to our twice yearly joint PCC meetings. Our thinking this time was led by the Rev’d. Dr. Peter Waddell, Dean of Sidney Sussex College Cambridge, who led a discussion on children and holy communion. A thoughtful presentation, debate and a question and answer session, followed by individual PCC meetings.

Brass Band, Blossom & Barbeque at Isleham - May 13

An excellent afternoon, when the weather was very kind and we were able to be in the Social Centre and the garden. It was great to have the Newmarket Town Band with us again. Many thanks to everyone who made sure all the food was well prepared, the draw went smoothly and all had a great time

Diamond Jubilee May Fair at Fordham - May 12

Many thanks to Jackie and all her committee and everyone who helped to make this such a successful day. The total raised on the day was £1,279.40. The draw was a great success.

Concert at Fordham - May 12

St Peter’s Preservation Trust Concert last Saturday 12 May at Fordham Church was a splendid occasion. The Burwell Community Choir sang beautifully and the children’s steel band from St. Felix School in Newmarket, called Pantastix, complemented each other perfectly. Thanks.

Three Rivers MU Branch - Tuesday May 1 

A super talk from Tony Page (Three Rivers Group Treasurer) on his life and career in banking and his helpful hints on how to save money.

Annual Parochial Church Meeting - Wednesday April 25

It was good to have a supportive and encouraging attendance at the APCM. The Annual report shows the huge variety and depth of our commitment to both worship and service in our communities. There are significant challenges and opportunites and we need to discern prayerfully together where God is leading us in the coming months and years. Thanks!

Election of Church Wardens - Sunday April 22

Elections of Church Wardens went very well last week. Thanks to our ten Church Wardens. With grateful thanks to Rob Savage for all his years at Isleham and to Ruth Ogden who has taken up that position.

Student Cross

It was very good to welcome the Student Cross Group through our parishes on Tuesday and Wednesday of Holy Week. The group was fewer in number this year but made their usual impact. Thanks to Jenny Bowen, Doreen Rule and Sue Lewis for all their help with the meal at the Bowls Club.

Church Wardens Meeting - February 28

Many thanks to all our churchwardens for a productive and joyful meeting last Tuesday.

Weddings preparation day - Sunday February 5, 12 noon-2.30pm

We had a very successful Wedding lunch last Sunday, with many thanks to Jenny and Ren Bowen, Barbara Whitwood and Doreen Rule for all their help in making sure the event went so smoothly

Mothers' Union 2012 Diocesan Marathon Relay

On February 4 our Three Rivers Branch hosted the arrival of the MU Book of Inspirations, from Soham. There was a display of the work of the MU, and our new banner was on show, with a soup and sandwich lunch. The morning raised over £80.

A big thank you to everyone involved with the refreshments. The Book of Inspirations moved to Burwell with grateful thanks to Roger Palmer for the use of his Bentley as our form of transport.

Three Rivers Group Mothers' Union - January 23

The Coffee, Craft and Cuttings Morning at Judy Abbott’s went very well and the new 3 Rivers MU Branch Banner was on view for the first time. 

We are very grateful to all who helped with both the banner and for the large turnout of both members and supporters to the coffee morning.

Advent and Christmas season

We had a great Advent and Christmas season in all our churches, so thanks for your great hospitality to all who worshipped with us. There were over 2,000 in all at services in these seasons.

Snailwell Church Christmas Fair - December 10

Snailwell Church Christmas Fair on Saturday was another good day in our parishes. The total raised was over £800 so many thanks to everyone who helped.

St Nicholas' Supper and Quiz - December 4

The Supper and Quiz at Kennett School was a great success with a total of £600 raised. A great boost. Huge thanks to Betty and Diane and Robin.

Chippenham Christmas Market - December 2

A super evening with so many supporting and having a great time. Thanks to Peter, Fiona, Terry and Kevin and everyone for all their help. The total so far is £2,300. A magnificent effort and great atmosphere.

School Christingle services

Both Kennett and Isleham Schools had wonderful Christingle Services last week.

All the children and many parents joined us in celebrating with an individual Christingle for every pupil. Staff, children and parents at both schools joined us in Church for this annual celebration. Thanks to Angela Roebuck, Head at Kennett and Nicola Bramley, Head at Isleham for their great support of this fund raiser for the Children’s Society.

Isleham Big Crib - November 25-December 3

It was so good to have three schools exhibiting their Big Cribs - Isleham, St Andrew’s Soham and Cheveley. You may have noticed publicity in the Ely Standard about this event in our Benefice.

Last night of the proms - Fordham church Sunday October 9

A wonderful evening with excellent music, great fun and superb community spirit! See you there next year!

‘Romany Wood’ 

A superb evening of entertainment from the young people of Chippenham and their friends too. Many thanks to Nick for narrating, and especially to Fiona, Isobel and Terry for preparing, leading and setting it all up. 

Cambridge Clarinet Choir in Concert - October 5

The Cambridge Clarinet Choir performed a concert in St. Andrew's Church, Isleham on October 5. It is a group of over a dozen clarinet players who play a variety of different clarinets. Their music is a mixture of popular, folk, swing and classical music, from Bach and Mozart to the present day. 

A super concert with Susie and her Clarinets. It was lovely to welcome this consort to Isleham on Wednesday evening. Many thanks to Mark Liversidge for organising it.

Fordham art and photography exhibition - September 24 and 25

A splendid weekend, the result of a huge amount of work, for which many, many thanks. It was great to include all this creativity with our Harvest Festival.

New evening service schedule from September

From September onwards, evening services will follow this new pattern:

• First Sunday: Choral Evensong at Fordham 6.30pm.

• Second Sunday: Evensong at Snailwell 4pm.

• Third Sunday: Healing Eucharist at Fordham 6.30pm.

• Fourth Sunday: Evensong at Chippenham 6.30pm.

Fordham Sunday School

From September Sunday School will be fortnightly.  

The dates will be:-

• September 11 and 25

• October 9 and 23

• November 6 and 27

• December 4 and 18

Mothers' Union AGM

We had a successful AGM at Fordham Victoria Hall with Gaynor Ryan demonstrating how to use small flowers and small leaf greenery to make an arrangement in a cup and saucer. 

Our Mothers’ Union Branch continues to thrive enjoying services, a lively programme, fundraising events and social activities.

For more information contact Helen Banyard 721616 or Jenny Bowen 720820.

Isleham Bank Holiday weekend

Thanks to everyone who made last weekend such a success.  A change from previous years' weekend festivals; this year saw some changes, including a Treasure Hunt on the Sunday afternoon.  A good sum was raised to help the church finances so many thanks once again.

Snailwell Barn Dance

Another great evening at Snailwell, many thanks to all who made it such a success.

Mothers' Union

We made just over £41 at the Ploughman's Lunch. Thanks to everyone who helped and to those who supported us.

Isleham Gift Day - Saturday July 16

A reasonably good result at Isleham, in spite of a very wet day which saw fewer people than usual coming into church. Money however continues to come in, and we are most grateful for all the support from every quarter of the village.

Snailwell Galaxy Big Band

An excellent evening’s entertainment with an enthusiastic crowd, many of whom danced the evening away. Many thanks to everyone who made it such a success.

Celebration of 900th birthday of Chippenham - July 17

A wonderful celebration last Sunday with all five churches at St. Margaret’s in Chippenham, when our new Bishop Stephen came and led our worship. It was a very good occasion and we celebrated 900 years of the church’s physical presence here in Chippenham. The lunch afterwards was splendid and many ate and drank to their hearts content and some even bounced on the castle! Here’s to the next 900. Again grateful thanks to everyone who made the day possible.

Abbot Consort Concert at Chippenham - July 2

A splendid concert as part of the 900th Anniversary celebrations. Thanks.

Christian Aid collection

We have collected £225 across the Three Rivers Group. Many thanks to all who contributed.

Fordham Patronal Festival  - Sunday 26 June 

Parish Barbeque after the principal service, at Fordham Vicarage. A great and hot day – many thanks to all.

Visit to Cressing Temple

The weather was kind to the 27 members and supporters and despite an early problem with the coach, which was quickly rectified, our outing to Cressing Temple was a great success.  The farm was formally held by the Knights Templar and there was plenty to see, from the working areas and equipment used in the past by tanners, blacksmiths and other agricultural labourers, a Tudor walled garden with an interesting section about herbs, an old bakery, and a covered well.  But the 2 large medieval barns were truly magnificent, with the use of wooden beams to create a massive ‘cathedral’ type space for the storage of wheat and barley.  Just over an hour away, near Braintree , with a cafe, we thoroughly recommend this interesting visit.

Visitation by the Archdeacon

It was very good to welcome our Archdeacon of Cambridge at the Visitation on Tuesday evening at Chippenham, when Churchwardens were sworn in for the coming year.

Fordham’s Quiz Night 

The Quiz Night at Fordham raised nearly £300. Thanks again to Jackie and Peter Naylor and all on the Social Committee who helped.

Mothers’ Union Deanery Coffee Morning  - 17 May

 A very successful, well attended coffee morning which raised nearly £200 for Mothers’ Union projects.  Thank you to all those who supported us.

Confirmation Service at Fordham - May 7

It was lovely to be able to welcome our new Bishop who led a super service for our four candidates who were clearly very moved buy this new step in their journey of faith. There is still one further candidate and Jenny will take her to the Cathedral at Pentecost to be confirmed there.

Easter flowers

A huge thank you to everyone who made all our five churches look so special at Easter tide. The flowers were beautiful and enhanced the special transformative events of Easter, after the stark reminders of Lent. 

John Abbott’s funeral Requiem 

Many thanks to all who made John Abbott’s funeral Requiem such a moving occasion. We remember him with love and affection and are very grateful for his substantial and significant contribution both to the life of the Church in Fordham and in the wider church in the Deanery and Diocese.

Robert Cross's Choir

It was a great joy to have Robert Cross’s choir from London at Chippenham. A lovely programme of Lenten and Easter music prepared us most effectively for Holy Week and Easter.

The concert marked a great start to our 900th year anniversary celebrations there will be more concerts and activity during the year to celebrate this great milestone.

Thank you too, to all those who turned up on Saturday morning at St. Margarets to clear and clean the insidie and outside of our beautiful church building.

Fairtrade Fortnight

The Fairtrade service at Fordham last week was a splendid event for which there was a great deal of support.  It was good to have our speaker return after last year’s service and to see the Fairtrade stalls in evidence at the back of the church.  Thanks to all.

Mothers' Union 'Celebration of Marriage'

The ‘Celebration of Marriage’ at St. Peter’s, Snailwell on February 12 was a good event. 

Many joined in, the church looked fabulous and there was time for much reflection.  

Thanks to everyone in the Mothers’ Union for planning and preparing.

St Nicholas, Kennett, Supper and Quiz

A great success. Good food, good company, a fascinating quiz and excellent prizes in the Draw. Many thanks to all who worked so hard to make it such a good evening.

Fordham Christmas lights

Many thanks to all choir members who sang carols at Withers Place on Saturday afternoon, a return visit after last year’s debut there. Then there was a wait till we contributed too to the Christmas Lights at the Memorial Garden, another first for Fordham. Thanks again to all who made it such a good day.

Chippenham Christmas Market

Was a huge success, with many thronging the church and all having a great time. A goodly sum raised for church funds too. Thanks to everyone who made it all possible, set up the church and cleared up afterwards.

Kennett St Nicholas Supper - December 4

Many thanks to all who made this such a good evening. Great fun and great community feeling.

Chippenham Christmas Market - December 3

A tremendous first such event, good to bring the community together, and a useful fund raiser. More next week.

Isleham Festival of Light - November 26-28

It was a wonderful weekend, a great deal of very worthwhile hard work and a good fund raiser. So many thanks to everyone who made is so.

Rave in the Nave in the Styx

This was a superb event. Many of our church young people came and had a great time in church. Many thanks to all the adults who supported us so strongly. Delighted to say that this will clearly become an annual event and a high spot in our calendar.

Book swap has opened at Chippenham

A chance to swap books and chat at Chippenham Village Hall every Wednesday from 2.30 – 3.30pm. Come and join us and bring your unwanted books. Paperbacks – 25p. Hardbacks 40p. Refreshments – 50p. Everyone is welcome.

Granta Chorale concert at Isleham 

The concert by the Granta Chorale at Isleham on November 16 was a great musical evening, although the size of the audience was rather disappointing.

Many thanks to the splendid choir and their conductor, Janet Wheeler, for this super concert. We all hope that they will return some time in the future.

St Peter and St Mary Magdelene's Autumn Fayre...

was held in Fordham church on Saturday October 16, 2010. 

Many thanks to everyone who made this such a good afternoon. The total raised is in excess of £750.

Three Rivers Group Mothers' Union

We had an enjoyable evening with Mr Barry Stevenson.  Members brought their antiques along to be identified and learnt much about them.

Our next meeting is on Monday 8 November 10:30am at Fordham Parish Church and is a Mother’s Union Holy Communion Service.

The Upper Room Group 

It has been wonderful to see so many at this new group in Fordham.  Folk from four of our parishes have attended and found the opportunity to discuss and debate really useful.  We are hoping to mount similar opportunities in the New Year, giving us all the chance to learn more about our faith.

We are very grateful to the Chequers for allowing us the use of the room and the facilities. 

The Rev’d Sandie Barton 

Sandie has been ministering with us for the past few years. We have all been very grateful for her joyful, faithful and committed ministry in the Three Rivers Group. Sandie and Lawrence now live in Freckenham and it is appropriate for Sandie to join the Mildenhall Group and minister with them in future. We wish her all the very best and God speed in her ministry there.

Three Rivers Group Mothers' Union AGM

The Three Rivers Group MU AGM was held on Wednesday September 22 at 7:30pm at Chippenham Village Hall. IT provided an opportunity for fellowship and to review the past year and look forward to the next. Food with an international flavour was enjoyed afterwards.

The new Bishop of Ely - Rt Rev'd Stephen Conway

Stephen Conway, aged 52, was educated at Keble College, Ox ford and Selwyn College, Cambridge. He trained for ordination at Westcott House, Cambridge. He is currently area Bishop of Ramsbury. He hopes to move to Ely in the New Year.

Fordham Garden Club’s Annual Horticultural Show

The show was held in the Church on Saturday, September 4. It was a lovely occasion and great to see the church so full of beautiful produce.

Isleham Flower Festival - August 28, 29 & 30 

St. Andrews looked absolutely fantastic at this annual flower festival. Many thanks to everybody who made the weekend such a success.

Galaxy Big Band at Snailwell - July 17

This was a really super event, with many more attending this year, a great sound from the band, excellent weather, expert organisation, and a tremendous community response. Thanks to Maureen and all the team for all the hard work in making this event become an established and important part of the social calendar in Snailwell. And we raised a good sum for Church funds!

St Andrew's Isleham Gift Day - July 17

It was good to see so many in church supporting us. The church receives no subsidies from outside and has to take responsibility for maintenance and running costs. Thank you to all who gave so generously!

Chippenham Park Open Garden day

Many thanks to all who helped at Chippenham Park teas  during the Open Garden afternoon. Great cakes, super tea, brilliant barbeque and tremendous community spirit.

Fordham Gift Day

A good day with many contributing in all sorts of ways. We hope that the final total will help our improving financial circumstances. There are still some numbers left in the 100 club so please do ask Jane or Kate or Mike for an application form. Monthly prizes are £100, £50 and £25 so it’s well worth joining.

Mothers' Union Tea Party

The Three Rivers MU held a Victorian Tea Party – costume optional – at Chippenham Vicarage on Wednesday, May 19. 

A splendid warm and sunny spring afternoon witnessed a large crowd of members and supporters on Wednesday at the Vicarage garden in Chippenham for a fun afternoon of games, tea, cake and conversation. Many thanks to all.

Murder Mystery play

Thanks to all who took part in the Murder Mystery play at Fordham. A superb night. Brilliant acting, good fun and much fellowship. Thanks to the actors, and to Kate for pursuing the idea. And to the Inspector Clouseau, or was it Hercule Poirot, who made the final detection and uncovered the perpetrator!

Confirmation 

It was delight to have so many at our Confirmation Service at Chippenham, April 17, and to have Bishop David with us. We welcome all the newly Confirmed and received in our churches.

A Night at the Races at Kennett School 

The Race Night on Saturday April 17 went very well, thanks to all who contributed to its success in raising much needed funds there.

Fairtrade coffee morning

The combined total of coffee morning and collection at Fordham’s service on Sunday came to over £100 which I’m sure we will be sending to the Fairtrade Foundation.

Sales in February have been over £300 which is tremendous. Many thanks to Lydia and Jenny for their work at raising the profile of Fairtrade in the Fordham  Parish.

Mothers' Union February meeting

Fiona Maxwell, who organises the Three Rivers Car Scheme is our speaker on Thursday 18 February at 7:30pm in the Victoria Hall, Fordham. All those parishioners who would like to hear more about this venture (which is available to everyone male and female) is welcome to attend and have the opportunity to ask questions.

Mothers' Union Coffee Morning

The total raised for MU Overseas Funds at the Craft & Coffee Morning at the home of Judy Abbott on February 1 was £107. A big thank you to Judy and all who attended this event.

Swine flu

The advice about swine flu has now changed. It is recommended that we go back to our usual practice of the common cup, that means communion in both kinds. The practice of intinction is not recommended (dipping the wafer in the wine is discouraged because often fingers also make contact with the wine and the virus is spread more easily in that way). If you are in any doubt that your state of health would affect others then please do be sensitive about all this. If you are in any doubt or would like to discuss this further then please do be in touch.

New sermon series

We are at present preparing a sermon series on 'What do our beliefs really mean'? More details of this series will be available very soon.

Churchwardens' meeting

The Churchwardens met at the Vicarage in Chippenham on Tuesday January 5th. We reviewed the Christmas festival and the past year and looked forward to 2010 with its many opportunities and challenges. 

Grateful thanks to all our churchwardens who work so tirelessly as leaders in each congregation. Do please talk to them and to us about any issues which you would like to see aired among our churches.

We have used this passage from Paul’s letter at the start of our Churchwardens’ meeting and our PCC meetings this January. We have found this really helpful in our own discipleship and commend it to everyone. Do read verse 18 on your own and see why we stopped at 17.

"As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3.12-17

‘The Shack’

Following on from our successful discussion group on ‘The Shack’ in Fordham during November we shall be holding a further session at Isleham Social Centre on Monday 25 January at 7.30pm.

Bible study 2010

Bible Study will continue in January. Details very soon, in a new copy of Free Flow, our Three Rivers Group quarterly magazine.

Schools

Mike and Kate visit all three primary schools, at Fordham, Isleham, & Kennett in our parish every week to lead worship and listen to the staff. If you would like to help us in this ministry, then please do talk to us. Please continue to pray for the head teachers, Governors, staff and pupils.

MU Social Action

Please help us to help others. A box will be placed in each church to collect used postcards and stamps for MU Social Action. Money raised is going to the Episcopal Church of Sudan. Please remember to keep your old stamps and cards!

Christmas services

Our Christmas services were a delight. Thanks to everyone who decorated our churches so magnificently, made glorious music, encouraged others to join us, prepared prayers, read lessons, cleaned the linen, rang the bells, moved chairs, staging and lights, and made sure everything was clean.

Christingle services

Christingle at Isleham, in December, is now focused on our primary school there. £283.70 was collected and sent to the Children’s Society. 

Kennett too has a Christingle service in December. In both villages the children come to church for this service. Thanks to everyone who made this possible, and to all those who made the Christingles.

Sundays@6 Rave in the Nave in the Styx

Following the success of last year’s ‘Sponsored Sleep-Over in Church’ for Children in Need St.Andrew’s, Isleham hosted another fundraising event on Sunday 15th December.  Their Rave in the Nave in the Styx, inspired by the huge annual event at Ely cathedral, raised over £400 and everyone involved had a great time.  

There were three bands; Unauthorised, comprising young people who attend Soham Village College; DOC, an established band of local 17/18 year olds; and The Running Mayfairs, who have played several times at The Junction in Cambridge, all gave their time and expenses for free.  

There were wiifit and playstation games, giant jenga, a tuck shop and brilliant disco courtesy of David Bedford.  Sylvia and Bob Allen kindly donated and manned the Bungee Run which proved very popular with the young, and not so young!  There were several behind the scenes benefactors to whom we are also very grateful.
 
We hope to make this an annual event and perhaps by holding it on a Friday night and relaxing the age limit we can attract more young people from around the area next year!

Autumn programme

Many thanks to everyone who led, contributed to and attended all the opportunities for learning about our faith and service in the world. Especially to Bridget and Nigel Cooper for their series on the topical issue about climate change.

A new programme for 2010, Lent and Easter will be published soon.

Three Rivers Mothers' Union branch

Our December meeting was on Monday 7 December at Fordham Victoria Hall. Several members enjoyed singing Carols. The Christmas refreshments afterwards were diet defying! Several members spoke of their reminiscences of Christmas. There were also readings and preparation for Christmas. Gaynor’s superb arrangement inspired us all.

Isleham Festival of Light - November 27-29 2009

The Isleham Festival of Light was celebrated over the weekend November 27-29 to mark the beginning of Advent. 

Harvest festival

We had a series of super services to celebrate the Harvest. All the churches looked magnificent, so thanks to all who spent time, energy and skill in decorating. Our Harvest Suppers too were joyful occasions. It was great to see Kennett’s monthly service so well supported and for their "fair and tombola" before the service there.

Completion of works at Isleham 

It is very good to see the work around the font at the back of Isleham church completed. We are hoping that redecoration in the church and the new screen and doors into the choir vestry can be completed soon; we are very light on funds to complete this work so if you would like to make a contribution please do speak with me or Kate. I think the screen may cost up to £2,500, similarly the decoration will cost around £2,500 plus VAT.

Mission action planning

Four of our five PCC’s have now completed initial discussion on Mission Action Planning. We will spread the word about our deliberations with everybody in the Churches in the next month, ready to submit our plans in November.

Harvest Suppers

It was an excellent idea to hold the "Fair" in Kennett Church in the afternoon before the Harvest celebrations. The separate Harvest Suppers in our churches have proved to be great times of fellowship; many thanks to all those who provided and prepared food so that we could all celebrate God’s goodness to us all.

Back to Church Sunday

It was good to see so many people in church last Sunday. It is so encouraging when we invite others to join us in worship and they respond to God’s call.

It would really help if we thought about this all the time, so please do think about inviting folk you know and perhaps even your neighbour to join us each week.

St Andrew's Isleham - Open weekend - August Bank Holiday 

A huge vote of thanks to all those who contributed in any way to make the bank holiday weekend at Isleham such a success. Up to this point over £1700 was raised though there may be more. It was good to, to welcome the cyclists from Mildenhall as usual and to renew old friendships.

The theme for this year’s event over August Bank Holiday weekend at St. Andrew’s was "Crafts & Collections". The display was open Saturday 29th August 29 – Monday 31st August 31, 10am–5pm. 

Isleham's new pavilion at the Social Centre

The new pavilion is looking absolutely splendid. It has been a real joy to see Graham and friends building next to the Social Centre. Thanks. Watch this and that space for further developments.

Three Rivers Mothers' Union AGM

This years’ AGM was held at Fordham Victoria Hall on Tuesday September 8. We all had a super time many thanks to Helen and all the committee for their hard work during the year. It was lovely to hear the Bottisham Handbell Ringers once again.

Mothers' Union outing to Elvedon Farm Shop

We had a lovely time at Elvedon Farm Shop on August 13. Thanks to Helen for organising and to those who drove us there and back.

Fundraising

The Fete and Gala and Feast and Gift Day season is now over. Over £7000 has been raised in our five parishes over the past six weeks. A fantastic effort from all concerned, so thank you.

Sundays@6

Details from Rev. Kate (01638-723960) or Rev. Mike (01638-721616).

Funds raised for hospice

This year Doreen held a Tea/Coffee and Cake Morning at Withers Place Community Room on Wed. July 29 at 11 am, in aid of Arthur Rank Hospice. Over £200 was raised for this great cause. Thanks to everyone who contributed in any way.

Group Institution & Eucharist: Pentecost

Many thanks to all who made it such a moving occasion. It was good to have representatives from each of the five parishes and from our schools to be with us sharing their music and singing.  

Fordham Flower Festival 

It was a great success, with many contributions from groups around the village. The church looked stunning, the concerts on Friday and Saturday were a joy, and we raised a good sum of money too. Many thanks to Nell Willits and her team.  

Annual Vestry Meetings

The election of Church Wardens took place on Sunday, April 19, after the main service in each church. All were re-elected except Judy Abbot at Fordham, where Jenny Bowen was elected. 

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

The Annual Parochial Church meeting was held last Wednesday, April 22.

It was good to see so many from all our churches present. There are significant challenges for the year ahead, and it was good to hear those articulated, and for us all to work together. Thanks.  

The Road to Emmaus

The Rev’d Tim Alban-Jones, Vicar of Soham and Wicken, composed this new piece last year, and it was performed in Soham Church with the Deanery Choir there.

This year it was performed again, this time in Chippenham Church, at 6.30 last week. Many thanks to Tim for composing and allowing us to sing it again, Peter Scott for accompanying, Peter North for conducting & Terry Cross for preparing the choir. It was good to see so many friends from the churches around the Deanery.

Lent lunches

Many thanks to all who have prepared, organised and supported the Lent lunches.  So far over £200 has been raised for the work of the Mothers’ Union Overseas commitments.

Quiet Day at Fordham Abbey

Saturday 7 March 7, 10am–3pm; by kind permission of Jane & John Lewin-Smith.

It was very good to have Bishop Simon with us yesterday to lead us in Lenten Reflections. Thanks to all who came.

Shrove Tuesday…

...was a lovely day.

There were pancake races at Isleham School in the morning and all classes had an uproarious time in the school hall. There was also an opportunity to learn about why we have pancakes and what Lent actually means. 

Then at Fordham at the Congregational Church and in partnership with the Parish Church over 60 children turned up for games, pancake racing, prayers and more learning about Lent. Many thanks to John Byrne and Kate for organising the Fordham event. 

Later in the afternoon there was pancake racing in the drive at Chippenham Park with prizes of chocolate for everyone in a pre-Lenten feast before our fast which started on Ash Wednesday. 

Fordham Parish Church of St Peter & St Mary Magdalene & Fordham Congregational Church

It was good to worship with the Congregational Church on Wednesday morning, on January 21, and to share in reflection on reconciliation. Thanks to Kate and Pastor John who led the service.

Three Rivers Group Mothers' Union

Our first meeting in 2009 was held on Thursday January 22 at 7:30pm in St Andrew's Social Centre (opposite the church) In Isleham. 

Our speaker was a member of our Ministry Team, Rev’d Sandie Barton, and the title of her talk was "Love the ones you’re with". 

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is January 18-25 this year. The theme is "Reconcile your people." 

The Congregational Church in Fordham and the Parish Church worship together in the evening when there is a fifth Sunday of the month, alternating between both church buildings. 

The three churches in Isleham meet together for worship on Good Friday, and again, the venue rotates around all three churches. In 2009 the service will be at Pound Lane.

The Rev'd Nigel Cooper

The Rev’d Nigel Cooper, Chaplain at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, has been assisting in the Three Rivers Group, mainly at Isleham, but sometimes in the other churches too, since he and Bridget arrived here some years ago. 

Mounting pressures of work mean that Nigel will be leaving the Group, but will continue to live in Isleham. 

A great thank you, to Nigel and to Bridget for all they do.

Mike to learn how to train curates

Mike is on a course on Monday and Tuesday at Pleshey Abbey learning about how to train curates, in preparation for Jenny Gage who will join us after her ordination in June this year.

The Neighbourhood Panel

The Neighbourhood Panel, a most effective forum bringing together Councillors, the police and the public meets at Soham Village College, Wednesday 7 – 9. All are welcome to attend.

Climate change

On Friday 5th December, Richard Howitt, one of the MEP’s for the East of England, came to Isleham to receive Christian Aid campaign cards from some members of the Three Rivers Group congregations. The cards were calling on the European Union, meeting at the time, to formulate its policy on climate change, to vote for a cut of 40% in carbon emissions by 2020, and to help pay for poorer countries to develop clean energy. The vote was unfavourable, so the campaign goes on.

The next day, the Three Rivers Group Christian Aid Co-ordinator, Bridget Newns Cooper, took the cause to London and went on the Global Day of Action against climate change. There will be an even more important march next December, 2009, when world leaders meet in Copenhagen to decided on the successor to the Kyoto treaty, so put the date in your diary now and join Bridget and many others in this worth while cause. Thanks Bridget for taking the lead for us on this issue.

Snailwell Christmas Fayre

Many thanks to Maureen and so many others who made this annual event such a success. To date over £1298 has been raised. A real boost at this time of year.

Currently we are hoping to install a new glass and oak door on the porch in memory of Judge Waddilove, Lesley Harrison and Phil Cole and the west windows will also be repaired. We have received a grant of £1500 towards this work!

Kennett St Nicholas Supper and Quiz

A thank you this time to Betty and Diane and their helpers who produced such a super supper last Saturday and to Diane and Robin for the great quiz. Over £470 also raised. Thanks.

Isleham Festival of Light - November 28-30

The Isleham Festival of Light was celebrated over the weekend November 28-30 to mark the beginning of Advent. 

The event raised over £1440, a stunning effort in these interesting times. A huge thank you to all who prepared "trees", made refreshments, sold produce, and staffed the church. This year we also gave all visitors a prayer to take away. Sunday’s Service was also a joyful occasion. Thanks.

Year Planner

We will shortly be issuing a "year planner" which will give details of meetings and group activities throughout the year.

Fordham Christmas Fayre

It was wonderful to have the Fayre in church this year. There is much more space and it is grand to have so many people joining us in our beautiful building. Many thanks to all who worked so hard to make this event a real service to the community.

Fordham Church Preservation Trust

A great concert from Soham Comrades Band on Saturday November 16, thanks to all who contributed. Thanks to Roger Palmer for all his hard work to make this such a success.

Kennet Church

Many thanks to everybody who turned up to help the "Autumn Clean" at St. Nicholas on Wednesday last. We can now find things in the vestry and you can move about in the tower.

Fordham

You may well notice improved lighting in the chancel. Many of the old lamps were broken so they have been replaced. It certainly makes a huge difference. Many thanks to Roger, who has overseen this project and to Jesus College, our Patron, for providing the necessary funds.

Chippenham

Many thanks to all who came for the "Autumn Cleaning" inside and outside the church.

Notice boards

We are currently working on renewing our notice boards. There will be a new notice board at Isleham in a tasteful blue. The notice board at Fordham will be removed shortly and renovated with up to date information. We are also having some large banners made advertising regular annual services

The Three Rivers Community Car Scheme

The launch date for the Three Rivers Community Car Scheme is set for October 1st this year. 

Public transport in many of our five villages is fairly limited, so we have set this scheme up as a service to our five villages. 

People who do not have access to, or regular use of, a car or public transport can phone and ask for assistance. The coordinator will find a driver for the journey and make detailed arrangements with the person asking for help. There will be a charge of 25p per mile to be paid to the driver. The County Council has provided a mobile phone for this service, publicity and other information about the scheme, and will top up the driver’s cost by a further 14p a mile.

More publicity and details will be published soon. If you would like to volunteer your services as a driver then please do be in touch with Mike on 721616. CRB checks and appropriate help with motor insurance will also be available for drivers.

Kennett and Fordham are fairly well served by public transport but Chippenham, Isleham and Snailwell are not. We hope that the scheme will provide a useful facility for many who currently feel "trapped" in their villages.

Mike reports that he is delighted to announce that Jenny has accepted his offer of the post of Assistant Curate in The Three Rivers Benefice. Jenny, who lives with her husband Andrew in Ely, is currently training for ordination with ERMC (Eastern Region Ministry Course) and she will be ordained in June 2009, after which she will join us for her Curacy. It is important to remember that such a new post is a training experience. Jenny will be with us on Sundays and possibly one other day a week and will join us as a full member of the Ministry Team.

A huge thanks to everybody who made all our Harvest Festivals such joyful occasions. Our Harvest Suppers have been great as well. Next year we will have five not four!

Fordham & Quy Deanery is growing. As from September this year, the Cheveley and Raddesley Groups will be joining us. Two benefices, but ten churches in all, with Clergy and Lay Ministers too. There was a celebration Songs of Praise at Wood Ditton on  September 7 at 4 pm.

St Andrew's Isleham Flower Festival 
Saturday through Monday, August 23-25

The church was open each day from 11am to 6pm on Saturday, Sunday and Monday with refreshments available at the Social Centre. There was a Festival Songs of Praise on Sunday evening at 6.30pm August 24.

View a slideshow of pictures from the Flower festival..

Mothers’ Union Trip to Anglesey Abbey - July 23

An excellent day at Anglesey Abbey for the Mothers’ Union with super weather.

Wine & Wonderings! - July 17

The last session of Wine & Wonderings was on Thursday. An interesting session, with many questions to ponder and reflect upon. We will be looking to future opportunities to be together and discuss matters of faith and action.

Community Car Scheme

The meeting last Monday saw Fiona Maxwell elected as Chairman of the group. The launch will be in October this year, and to date there has been great support from individuals and Parish Councils.

St Peter's Day

Many thanks to all who contributed to a great service at Fordham and especial thanks to all who made the barbeque possible afterward.

Deanery Enlargement

As from 1st September 2008 the Cheveley and Raddesley Groups of parishes are joining Fordham and Quy Deanery

Fordham Gift Day - June 28

Many thanks to all who contributed to a lovely day.

It was especially good to have Peter North with us in the afternoon leading our singers.

Music in the Park- June 14

Thanks to all who made this such a memorable occasion. The rain held off (mostly) the music was superb and the atmosphere wonderful. A good sum will have been raised for the restoration fund at Chippenham.

Shrubland's Fete at Fordham - June 7

In spite of the weather, and in great spirit, St Peter’s held their Summer Fete last Saturday. Over £780 was raised, especially pleasing in the circumstances. Many thanks to all who contributed and especially to Roger and Rosemary Palmer for hosting this event again.

Picnic in the Park at Kennet - June 8

A lovely afternoon, with warm weather this year. The Newmarket Band played for us, a tree was planted in memory of a previous Secretary of the Kennet and Kentford Playing Field Association, and there was even a prize for the Teddy Bear. Many thanks to Diane and Darren and so many others who worked so hard. And we had hymns and prayers too.

Prayer Diary 

Jan and James Broad have compiled a Prayer Diary for the Group. This is has been sent to everyone on the Electoral Roll of each church. Please continue to pray for all the churches and our five villages. Thanks.

Ely District Bell Striking Competition

Congratulations to Isleham on their success in the Novice Class at the recent competition. The team comprised Ruth Ogden, Richard May, James Wilkes, Ryan Wilding, Sean Edwards and Nick Carver.

Withers Place, Fordham

The "Day Centre" provides a superb facility – with weekly luncheons, cooked and served by volunteers from the church and village. We lead a service there every month too. Talk to Mike or Kate for more details.

Annual Church Meeting

The Annual Meetings for all five churches were held together on Wednesday 16 April in Isleham School (courtesy of Headteacher Mrs N Bramley.) 

The meeting accepted accounts, reports, elected Sidesmen, PCC members, Deanery Synod Reps, and looked forward to the coming year. 

It was a good meeting with 55 present from all churches. 

Thanks for your contributions.

Prayer requests

Please pray this week for the Buildings Groups in all our churches. In some villages, it has been the custom to pray for specific streets each week. We are expecting to include that here for us all soon.