BARNSTAPLE ARCHDEACONRY

Since stepping into Gillian’s shoes as a very new President, I have

become aware of the foundations that Gillian had built, and all the hard work

that she had done to maintain and support Branches in the Archdeaconry. Her

enthusiasm and presence is, through unfortunate circumstances, sadly missed and we send our love and wish her well in her recovery.

My aim for this year was to visit as many Branches as I could, and each

Branch has greeted me with such warmth and friendship which has been a

joy. Following Gillian has been made so much easier by the welcome I have

received from all the Branches.

In the past few months I have attended the St. George’s Day and Mary

Sumner Day services in Appledore; Deanery Festivals in Georgeham and

Shebbear and Lady Day in Torrington. This was a special day for the

Torrington Branch to say farewell to Clarissa Humblestone, their Branch

leader for so many years.

On a warm, sunny day in July, Mary and Norman Steer travelled to

Ilfracombe for my Commissioning Service, rather nerve-wracking for me in

front of my own congregation, but on the day, a wonderful occasion.

In late September Mary and Norman returned to Ilfracombe, this time

with the Mothers’ Union Worldwide Trustee for Africa, Vivian Kityo. We

enjoyed a lovely service when Vivian spoke about her work in Uganda coping

with many languages and teaching simple rules of hygiene to limit the

devastation left by diseases like cholera. Many of you already support her

work by the knitting of squares and your contributions to Overseas aid and

she gave thanks for this practical, essential support. I was struck, not only by

her graceful stance and beauty, but by the love of God which seemed to shine

from within her and in all she said.

Thank you to all the members that came from all over the

Archdeaconry, you certainly made the day and showed our support for the

international work of the Mothers’ Union adding to Vivian’s lasting memories

of the Mothers’ Union in North Devon.

These past few months have been quite a learning curve for me, but I

am certain that, with the love we receive from the Lord Jesus, we will all do

our best, helping us all to go from strength to strength for the Mothers’ Union

in Devon and worldwide.

With every blessing, Jenny Facey