As summer moves on the garden party preparations are well under way. The Grand Draw tickets will have been distributed and prizes gathered in. Carrier bags full of all sorts of donated goods appear. The grass is cut, stalls erected and prayers offered for a fine day.
The flag on the tower flutters in anticipation as refreshments, games and stalls are busily prepared. The garden party is a highlight of the social life of the parish. Many people are involved. Many who have left the area years ago, return especially for this event. The efforts of all provide a huge boost for parish funds plus, more importantly provide a wonderful day of community spirit and life.
In September we again recall the coming of the Sisters of the Order of
the Faithful Companions of Jesus to Crook. The present Sisters carry out great pastoral work among the parishioners and townsfolk. They open their home in welcome, for meetings, prayers, Eucharistic services, private visits and help and not least for a very welcome cup of coffee and chat after Mass on Sunday mornings. On special days the coffee is extra special too!. They follow a great tradition of nuns working and praying in our parish.
As the year progresses other social events take place. These are generally organised by the Fund-raising group. Among the most successful was a Bonfire Night and barbeque.
Suddenly we are preparing yet again for Christmas.
It is time for those hard-working parishioners who make and sell Christmas wreathes to spring into action. There is a carol service in the town to which we are
all invited, Christmas Cards are being sent to
Prisoners of Conscience, the Advent Candles are
being lit one by one and the coming of Our Lord is remembered by a series of Holy Hours and a Taize evening. Parishioners sign a huge parish Christmas card in lieu of personal cards and donate the proceeds to Cafod or Christian Aid. Our parish cycle of activity Our Parish cycle of activity is beginning to turn once more.
