Big plans are underway to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Shildon Methodist Church, writes Church Council Secretary, John Hodgson.
The current building was opened on 6th October 1976 and the church is planning a weekend of celebrations from 9 to 11 October this year.
There will be a Flower Festival in the church and community hall throughout the weekend.
This is being planned and organised in conjunction with Kathryn Hume from Forget-me-Not Designers and Flower School.
Kathryn will be contacting businesses, organisations and local schools to invite them to sponsor and take part.
The Brick Alley Lego User Group will be taking part in a “Blooming Brick” event in the Community Hall on Saturday, 10th October.
There will be displays of their members fabulous Lego models and an area for children, young people and adults to have a go at building some of their own creations.
The weekend will conclude on Sunday, 11th October with a special Celebratory Service, a final chance for the local community to have a look at the Flower Festival and a flower auction.
The church’s new Minister, Rev’d Peter Catford, who will be taking up his post in September, will be invited to lead the service.
There will be a trip down memory lane through displays of church events including weddings, gatherings, trips, youth groups, Sunday School etc, and refreshments will be available.
The church would like to involve everyone who has had a connection with the church over the last 50 years and if anyone has any photographs, for example from weddings or baptisms, they are willing to share they can email the church at shildonmethodist2010@hotmail.co.uk.
There will be more information coming out over the coming weeks and months, so keep an eye on the local press!
John Hodgson
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
