News Archive - June 2010

St Mary's Ladies Guild

The members and visitors were welcomed to the home of Joan and Graham Chappell, for the meeting and afternoon tea on Wednesday 12th May. Joan led the devotions and read a poem that she had written and birthday cards and wishes were extended to Dorothy, Jean Bates, Deirdrea, Fay Smith, Barbara Ilic, June Morton and Anne Hunt.

Deirdrea introduced Jenny Moody from the Luton Women's Aid and Refuge, who spoke about her work at the center over the years, with victims of domestic abuse and violence,both women and children.

Women enter a refuge to escape domestic violence and abuse, and with practical help, emotional support and a safe place to stay, they are able to slowly recover and rebuild their lives and regain their dignity. How grateful we all were, that our experiences were able to be so different to theirs.

In 2002 Jenny was awarded an MBE for her services and in 2005 was given an honorary MA for the work with the Luton Women's Aid.

The Guild members, over the past few months had collected toiletries and other essential items for the ladies and children at the center. Marjorie Mann presented two large boxes of goods to Jenny and a plant and thank you card for being the speaker.

A special 'May tea' had been prepared by Joan and the committee which was greatly enjoyed and waistbands appeared much tighter afterwards !! There was a raffle and bring and buy stall.

Joan Chappell was thanked by Deirdrea for making everyone feel so welcome and for the lovely cakes that she had made and Graham for all the preparations prior to our visit. Marjorie presented Joan with a plant and Graham some wine.

The next meeting is on Wednesday at 2.00pm at the church, when the speaker will be Sister Alvoria on “My life as a nun”.

Visitors are always welcome at our meetings to hear the speaker, enjoy the teas and share in the fellowship and friendship that we enjoy.

Source: Focus, June 2010

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