St Paul’s Patronal Festival – January 2025

At St Paul’s patronal lunch, the room was buzzing with the sounds of 46 happy people, talking, laughing and forming groups at each table.  All the tables had been beautifully prepared by a team of helpers.  Brian invited us to take our seats and David set the scene by saying Grace.

Serving the first course, cooked by the staff at the Old School Kitchen (Thyme Out) was a lesson in logistics, and volunteers did a splendid job sorting out who had ordered which of the three meals on offer.

Identifying who wanted mushy or garden peas was not easy with everyone talking, moving about or serving wine!

The empty plates indicated that the hot food had been enjoyed, and all eyes turned towards the tables set out with the enticing array of puddings and cheese.  There were lots of dishes, made by members of the congregation, and we were spoilt for choice.  All were delicious and some people, who shall remain nameless, couldn’t resist a second (third) helping.

The joy of these events is the opportunity to share stories, memories and ideas with those around you.  Often, we find our paths have previously crossed or we know other people from the past.  It helps us to feel increasingly that we are all members of the St Paul’s family.

All those attending were extremely grateful to the many people who had arranged the lunch and contributed to preparing the tables, providing food, serving food and clearing up afterwards – and providing another opportunity to get to know other people and visitors at St Paul’s.

Pauline and Alan  Wheatley