“When the coalition government started to talk about the big society, they should have come to Shildon first to learn first-hand how it works,” says Reverend David of St John’s Church. “People caring about their community has been a feature of Shildon life for as long as anyone can remember.
“At Saint John’s Church we are so fortunate to have people who, motivated by their love of others, spend years working voluntarily to make things better.
“On Sunday 13th April we had a chance to say thank you to one of those volunteers who over the last six years has been ‘church warden’ at the Church.”
Being church warden means that you are responsible for the building and, in the absence of a minister, for the services too.
Pat Todd of Main Street, Shildon, became church warden six years ago, kindly staying a year longer than her term to help with the change of vicars.
Working tirelessly with her fellow Warden Barbara Hall, who stepped down last year, and Neil Cleasby who was appointed in 2013, Pat has overseen the care and maintenance of the beautiful building.
Saint John’s relies on donations to keep the doors open. With the numbers of weddings and baptisms booming, Pat worked hard to ensure a bright friendly church in a good state of repair greeted everyone who came in.
After the Sunday morning service, Pat, who also sings in the choir and does admin tasks, was presented by Revd David with a bouquet and a gift to say thank you. “It is,” continued Revd. David, “only a small token for a lady with a big heart, but we are so grateful Pat for all you have done, and indeed continue to do, to see our community flourish – thank you.”
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
