Most of you during this month will be having a rest from the weekly/meetings and enjoying the break. Some will have been on holiday and I hope you have benefited from the experience and for those who still have it to come I hope it lives up to its expectations.

The Pastoral vacancy is still an item that needs to be thought and prayed about during this month. We have been informed by Ernie Whalley that he will take our situation to the Superintendents board meeting in Sept. for possible ministers' names

Thanks to the leaders of the holiday club for their hard work in preparing and presenting the holiday club, the children had a fantastic time and by all accounts so did some of the adults.

The Church picnic took place on Sunday 5th August and although there were only just over 20 there a good time was had by all.

You will all by now have noticed the new vestibule doors. I am sure that you will agree they enhance the appearance of the building. If you have also passed the manse recently you will notice that the new blinds have been fitted to all the windows and that the garden hedges and tree have been cut back and the grass cut.

Talking about tidy gardens, David Hoskins has informed me that he can no longer carry the task of cutting the Church grass. I am sure that we are all most grateful to David for the loyal service that he has given for many years. We are therefore looking for someone who can offer their services in carrying on this task. We do have all the equitment, motorised lawnmower and stimmer - if you can help please speak to me or David who will be able to give you some advice.

Ray Richardson is to be inducted to the fellowship of Ferryhill Baptist Church on Saturday 1st Sept. The service commences at 3.00pm and the guest speaker is Rev David Hunt, if you intend going please let me know.

Stocksfield Baptist Church have invited us to the induction service of Paul Revill which will take place on Saturday 15th Sept. at 3.00pm.

The NBA are holding a series of studies on Pastoral Care, an introductory meeting will be held at Durham Baptist Church on 17th Sept. at 7.00pm. They are open to anyone wanting to know more about pastoral care, no previous experience needed. If you are interested in attending or want more information, please speak to me.

Items for the Hrvest magazine are to be handed to Denise by 9th Sept.

"A Song for Zambia" is being staged at the Customs House on Wednesday 29th August at 7.00pm. Tickets are available from the Customs House at £5.00 and consessions at £3.00.

South Shields Methodist Music Society are looking for anyone wishing to be part of a choral group. You do not have to belong to the Methodist denomination. If you are interested please see me for more details.

David