Desert Island Discs with guest Rev'd Canon Steve Wright
Wednesday 29th October 2025
This event, attended by 22 parishioners and organised by Mrs Anne Galbraith and Mrs Carol Adams began with a lovely traditional afternoon tea.
Steve was interviewed (perhaps interrogated should be the word?) by Anne with questions ranging from early childhood and family through to arriving in Haltwhistle in 2022.Steve very much entertained us with stories of his somewhat rebellious teenage years, his almost accidental entry to university, his meeting and friendship with Jo as well as events leading to his ordination.
Following ordination, marriage to Jo and the arrival of children Steve and Jo spent time in Nigeria, Kuwait, Dubai and Sharjah. On return to the UK, Steve and Jo spent time in the Quidenham Parish in Norfolk before arriving in Haltwhistle.
We very much enjoyed Steve's enthusiasm for the music he chose which had a classical bias but did include the Sex Pistols as well as Rachmaninoff.
In true Desert Island Disc style Steve made his first choice of music ( selecting only one proved very difficult) Pearsell's arrangement of ' In Dulci Jubilo'. His book wasThe Bible and his luxury possesion a grand piano.
The event raised £235 00.
All Hallows'Church Harvest Festival
Sunday 28th September 2025
A Harvest Celebration Service of Morning Prayer was led by Mrs Anne Galbraith and Mrs Carol Adams. Anne's thought provoking reflection centered around sharing, generosity and gratitude. Anne referred to the many health benefits, both mental and physical, currently being attributed to the practice of gratitude.
The second reading for the day was from the first letter of Paul to Timothy (1Timothy 6 v 6-19)
Verse 17. As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life.
At the end of each day let us to reflect on our daily lives and give thanks to God for all that is good in our lives.
The gifts of the congregation will be shared between The People's Kitchen and the West Northumberland Food Bank.
Haydon Bridge and Beltingham with Henshaw Mothers' Union
Wednesday 25th June 2025
The summer meeting, held on Wednesday 25th June 2025, was hosted by Mrs Anne Brunton at her home. The day began with very uncertain weather which gradually improved by lunchtime allowing us to enjoy a very nice afternoon tea, after the service, in Anne's garden. As well as the members of the branch including our chaplain Rev'd John Harrison, the meeting was attended by the Diocesan President, Mrs Margy Tasker -Brown.
A raffle was held, the proceeds and donations given will support some of the many good causes of the Mothers' Union.
Thank you to the committee and all members of the Mothers' Union for a very successful and enjoyable afternoon and especially to Anne for providing such a lovely venue. Watching the constant activity of the birds coming and going to the feeders was a great pleasure!
Wednesday 23rd July 2025
The invited speaker to this meeting was Mr James Blythe. James, a qualified barrister, gave a very informative and thought provoking presentation entitled 'A Miscarriage of Justice' examining the events which led to the crucifixion of Jesus. James considered the trial of Jesus through the Jewish high court, the Sanhedrin and the subsequent transfer to the Roman Court. Pilate despite finding no fault in Jesus ordered his crucifixion.
An interesting discussion ensued. Was this part of God's plan? Is there evidence of this miscarriage of justice still happening at the present time? How could an innocent man's life end in this way?
Mrs Anne Brunton gave thanks to James for this very interesting presentation.
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It was a lovely sunny morning last Thursday when a group of willing volunteers got together to tidy up the pathway through the churchyard and up to the Church entrance. There were a lot of weeds to pull out. Most of us found that the best way was to get down on our hands and knees and get to work! At coffee time, Diane produced some gorgeous home made cream scones which set us up for the second session!
Ascension Day - Thursday 29th May 2025
A service of Holy Communion was held at All Hallows' Church presided over by Rev'd Keith Teasdale. In his address Keith spoke about the meaning of Ascension Day, the period between the resurrection and Jesus ascending into heaven. A time when Jesus prepared his disciples to go out into the world and begin their ministry
At the end of the service Keith released a red balloon which rose to the rafters of the church whilst the congregation reflected on the Ascension of Jesus.
The service was followed by a fundraising supper served in the Church Room. This was a very sociable and enjoyable event.
Thank you especially to Anne, Carol and Alf for making this a very special evening. Thanks are also due to all who helped with the organisation (Philippa's lemon puddings are delicious) as well as all who supported the event and donated so generously.
