NEWS 2026

ADVENT & CHRISTMAS 2025

Our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in our Advent and Christmas Services and activities,

including those who:

led worship, played the keyboard, decorated baubles, decorated the tree and church, took part in the Lessons & Carols, were cast members in the Nativity, attended Church Christmas Lunch and so much more.

There were some large attendances which were an encouragement to us all.

IN OUR PRAYERS

Please remember:

Daz, Christine`s son-in-law.

Margaret, Helen`s mother.

Betty Vickers in MRI.

Ruth Thompson in Belong Atherton.

Marjorie Potter

and all in any kind of need.

We remember before God all who are in hospital,

undergoing treatment or awaiting test results.

Be their strength.

We remember those in nursing and residential homes.

Be their companion.

We remember those who have been bereaved.

Be their consolation.

We remember those who are not with us with us in worship,

for whatever reason.

Be their guide back to the way of Christ.

THIRD WEDNESDAY CLUB

Our usual January Quiz had a somewhat different theme this year, thanks to Jackie Mafi, our guest speaker last November.

Jackie kindly provided us with a quiz on the theme of sweets,

chocolates and kitchen items.

Alan hosted, there was a decent turnout and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

Our speaker in February was local historian, Judith Atkinson,

whose subject was "Walkden in World War II".

Our speaker in March was Shirley Dowson with her subject, "The Mitford Sisters". This had been a much anticipated talk and there was a good turnout. What we didn`t  know was that this was to be Shirley`s last public engagement and so we were honoured to be her last hosts.

ADVANCE NOTICE ~ CHURCH QUIZ

Our next Church Quiz and Food Afternoon, will be on Saturday April 18th at 3pm. Lee will be quiz master and Carrs Pasties will be supplying the food. Everyone is welcome.

Please book your place with Audrey Chapman.

DEACONS

The Deacons met on Tuesday February 25th at 7pm at the home of Charlotte Harrison.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

This annual event, formerly Women`s World Day of Prayer, was held at Walkden Methodist Church on Friday March 6th at 7pm.

Our Minister attended.

CHURCH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

There was a good turnout for our AGM which followed worship on Mothering Sunday.

Reports were heard from:

the Secretary, Treasurer, Pulpit Secretary, Bible Study Group Leader,      the Social Committee, Safeguarding Lead and Minister.

We are encouraged by regularly healthy attendances, increased giving and more opportunities for fellowship and outreach.

We thank God for all He has done and will yet do in our midst.

EASTER EGG SHAPE DECORATION COMPETITION

Following on from our Decorate a Christmas Bauble Competition, we are encouraging people to buy a Easter Egg shape to decorate and return by Palm Sunday for judging and subsequent display on Easter Sunday. Thanks to Cathy for this initiative.

EASTER CHICKS AND CREAM EGGS

Our thanks to Bev for making the delightful Easter Chicks containing a Cream Egg, which are available for sale in aid of church funds.

LENT & EASTER SERVICES

Palm Sunday 11am:      Distribution of Palm Crosses

Good Friday  10am:       Short Service at 10am

Good Friday   11am:      Churches Together Walk of Witness                                                      from Waldken Methodist to St Johns

Easter Sunday 6.15am:  Churches Together Sunrise Service                                                      at Blackleach Country Park

Easter Sunday 11am:      Easter Communion

Minister ~ Rev Alan Kennedy 07733153203 01612703296 alanrk1690@gmail.com