News:

Wasn't it lovely to have that blast of warm weather in October giving us time to continue enjoying the garden, countryside and even the beach. It did cause a little confusion in the flower bed though, with Clematis in full flower once again. Now as the darker and colder evenings are upon us, we turn our thoughts to those who don't look forward to this time of year as much, due to the longer nights and less contact with the outside world. Let us be more mindful of their situation and be a friendly voice or a welcome visitor.

Our thanks go to Maureen, Paul and all who helped in any way with the Produce Show on 26 August, and especially all those who entered in the various categories. It was a fun day and the prizes were very well distributed amongst the entrants. A total of £400 was raised for Church funds.
 
The East window has now been repaired, restored, returned and re-fitted. It is so great to have it back in place and by working together the Glazier and churchwarden were able to ensure that it was back for the beginning of September.

The window was done and dusted, just in time for 2 September, when we welcomed Peter, Nina and family to St. Mary's for their wedding, which was conducted by Rev'd Steph Gordon-Jeffs. A happy time was had by all, and the bells rang out to welcome the newly-weds as they left the church.  We wish them a long and happy future together.

Our Harvest Thanksgiving weekend was a success. Those who attended the Harvest Supper were challenged to use their knowledge of supermarket food prices with a 'higher or lower' quiz, general knowledge, guess the weight of the veg and 'breads from around the world'. Winners had a dip in the box for a prize of their choosing. A delicious Bring and Share supper was enjoyed and thanks go to all who helped to prepare the hall and pack away afterwards.

The following morning saw an early family service with Harvest Thanksgiving at 9.30am, with a beautifully decorated church filled with the aroma of flowers, fresh fruit and vegetables a plenty. A family of bread mice took up residence on the harvest loaf which were once again lovingly made by Nik and Tilly.

The service was led by Nik and her talk reflected on what we need in life rather than what we want. The congregation went on a 'hunt' around the church for items that then had to be divided into three groups of 'essentials, treats, or hopes and dreams'. It certainly made us think about the necessities of life!

The fresh produce from harvest was taken to The Salvation Army, while CHAT received the dried goods, tins and toiletries. We are delighted that we can continue to support these local charities at this time of year and on other occasions and they are extremely grateful for all they receive to distribute to those in need.

The Big Quiz was held on 9 October at Calverleigh village hall, in aid of Tearfund. Although few in number, there was a good competitive atmosphere between the teams. There was a mix of challenging and more straightforward questions. Congratulations go the 'The Scientists' who were worthy winners of the bottles of wine, 'It’s Wet' coming in second place and 'The Oddbods' bringing up the rear - but they went away with a consolation prize. Thanks to Jean for organising a fun evening, Steph for being an expert quiz master and to all who brought along a great assortment of food for the bring and share supper.

Throughout December we will again be collecting dried and tinned foods plus toiletries for CHAT.  Donations will collected under the Christmas tree as usual and handed over early in the new year.

Our best wishes and congratulations go to anyone who has had a significant birthday celebration, birth of a baby, wedding etc... Including our very own Tilly who turns 6 in November! Happy Birthday Tilly!

Our prayers are with anyone that is feeling unwell, is waiting for or receiving treatment. We pray that you will soon be feeling much better. May God Richly Bless you. Please let us know if you'd like us to pray for you by name. Condolences go to all who are grieving the loss of a loved one wither recently or longer ago.  Our thoughts are with you.

Dates for your diary

Family Bingo: We are having a Family Bingo Night on Saturday 11 November at the village hall. Doors will open at 6.30pm, eyes down at 7pm. All in aid of Calverleigh church. Draw prizes would be greatly appreciated

Autumn Fayre: On Saturday 18 November, also at the village hall from 10.30am until 2pm we are holding our annual Autumn Fayre. There'll be local produce, tombolas, children's craft, chinese auction, cake stall, bring and buy and books. Refreshments will also be available.

As we approach the festive time of Christmas and all that the season gives us, we are planning to send out the Loxbeare and Calverleigh carol singers once again. We will be out and about around the two villages on December 19, 21 and 23. 

We were slightly disappointed that we were unable to cover all the normal households last year and will endeavour to do so this time around. If you enjoy singing Christmas carols this is a fun and rewarding festive activity and you are most welcome to join us no matter what your singing ability - the more the merrier!

Please contact Aubrey on 255248, Jackie on 255814 (Calverleigh) or Sue 259496 (Loxbeare). We will meet on 19 and 21 Dec at Loxbeare church and on 23 Calverleigh Village hall. On all three nights we'll meet at 6pm.

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