Latest News From The Parish
Here is a quick round up of some of the latest news. You can find more details elsewhere on the site.
St Martin’s Memory Café
During 2016 Diocese ran a number of events designed to introduce parish representatives to the field of ministering to people living with dementia. Following discussion with the Rector and PCC it was agreed that Jackie McCann would lead a team from St Martin’s to establish a Dementia Café (later renamed).
Significant support and guidance was provided by the Diocesan Dementia officer, Julia Burton-Jones, and by the Bromley Dementia Hub.
The aim of the Memory Café is to provide a safe, friendly place where those living with dementia can have a relaxing social time together and their carers can relax in the company of those in a similar situation.
A typical afternoon sees it prepare a number of activities that can be undertaken. They include table quizzes, craft work, some ‘sing-along’ music and materials to support the day’s theme.
Tea and cake is served in amazing quantities and a constant buzz of conversation fills the room.
The afternoon is closed with a short act of Worship; a hymn, a prayer and a few words from the Rector, which all present seem to enjoy.
Jackie McCann |
Confirmation - We welcome anybody to come forward who is thinking of being Confirmed. Rev Ruth would like to speak to you and classes can be arranged before she leaves the Parish with a service in Chislehurst on 14th July. |
Visit of Rev Shahzad Gill, We were delighted to welcome the Bishop's Chaplain from the Diocese of Raiwind, church of Pakistan for two weeks. We arranged a programme for him with three things in mind: Immersion in parish life, wider experience of the Anglican Church and broader educational and cultural visits.
He took part in services, visited ICare, Foxbridge House, Memory Cafe, went to Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament as well as many other events.
The Diocese of Raiwind paid for his international travel and we were responsible for his expenses whilst with us here in Orpington. It was a tremendous team effort to deliver his programme and thank you to everyone who who played their part. Thanks for your hospitality and generosity. With God's help we seek to develop this relationship through prayer, mutual encouragement and exchange. Rev Shahzad expressed his deep appreciation for all the love he received and we pray for him now as he returns to his family, his diocese and his demanding ministry.
'God reigns over the nations' Psalm 47. Richard Jones
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