Events
Autumn Festival 2008
God has made himself known to all men everywhere through the world that he has made; this is plain for all men to see
. Alan T. Dale.
The theme for the Autumn Festival this year was ‘One World’. The title was inspired by the Beijing Olympics and by a growing awareness that in our small ‘country type’ parish we have many parishioners who come from other countries, many who have lived in other countries and even more of us who have visited and holidayed overseas.
In the days before the festival weekend the church was busier than ever ; cleaners cleaning (Hamish the dog was seen to be doing a bit of low level dusting), people moving furniture, flower arrangers creating wonders and artists making displays that were colourful, educative and amazing.
St. Patrick’s School gave us a truly international feel by sending 160+ flags made by the pupils. Over the weekend and especially at Mass times children could be seen searching for their flag. Well done and thanks to Kieron, staff and pupils.
Upstairs we had local crafts and art on display and for sale, again showing us what great talent we have in our town. There were Fair Trade items, books, cards and Russian Crafts for sale. Home grown and home made produce was available together with the ever popular Irish Coffee and cake and the not quite so popular tea, coffee and juice.
As usual on the Sunday afternoon the senior parishioners were treated to afternoon tea as they enjoyed their colourful surroundings and looked at the crafts, cards and produce. Thanks to Ann, Margaret and the Care Group helpers.
Thanks once again to all who helped to make the weekend enjoyable, especially Debbie who coordinated the whole Festival and to Father John for all the support and for not eating the edible flower displays. The (welsh) leeks were temptingly displayed near Father’s chair.
Autumn Festival 2007
There was a slight change to our Autumn Festival this year. As well as having an amazing selection of crafts and creations, we had the pleasure of listening to the Keynsham Brass Band in our first ever concert in the church.
The theme this year was 'music' and the church looked beautiful, decorated with autumn flowers, foliage, musical instruments and equipment.
At the Saturday evening Mass the fluritaro group played and sang specially chosen hymns for the occasion, as did the adult choir on Sunday morning. After the Sunday morning Mass, we had the pleasure of listening to Giordano playing the accordion as we sipped Irish Coffee.
On Sunday afternoon the elderly people of the parish were treated to 'afternoon tea' and were delighted to be able to see the crafts and displays and listen to a short concert given by two talented teenagers.
Again we had the opportunity to browse and/or buy an amazing selection of crafts and paintings, knitting, crochet work, embroidery, silk flower arrangements, woodcraft, collage, paintings and much more. There were Traidcraft items and an excellent selection of Christmas cards and books. (Many Christmas presents were purchased). The produce stall was as usual well stocked with plants and homemade cakes, biscuits etc.
Even though the concert coincided with the England/France rugby world cup semi final it was still well supported and was a huge success to the extent that many people have said that we must do it again. Thank you Keynsham Brass Band.
Lots of people helped to make the weekend a success by working on stalls, moving furniture, 'creating', advertising, baking, making drinks, washing up, stewarding and greeting visitors and by being cheerful. A big “thank you” is deserved by all who helped and especially Father John for his guidance and support.
Corsham Combined Churches Carol Service
The charity collection at the Corsham Combined Churches Carol Service organised by St Patrick's in December raised the marvelous total of £662.42 for the Leonard Cheshire Home in Zambia.
An abridged version of a letter from Sister Cathy in charge of the home.
Leonard Cheshire acknowledge receipt of the money (76Kb).
Autumn Festival 2005
Now in it's second year, our Autumn Festival is a true celebration of
the talents and activities in the Parish.
This
year's Festival, held on 5th and 6th November, was no exception, with
the display and sale of Art and Crafts, plus floral displays (on the theme
of "Communication"), Irish Coffee, Christmas gifts and cards from
Tradecraft, and culminating in a tea party for our senior parishioners.
The weekend also marked the launch of our own Parish website, and visitors were able to browse and comment on the site.
Money raised from the Festival amounted to over £320, and this is being sent to Sister Stella for the Mongu Cheshire Home.
Full Set of Autumn Fair Photos
Make Poverty History Vigil
On 15 April 2005, as supporters of Make Poverty History gathered in London, parishioners at St Patrick’s Parish held their own vigil for the cause.
Lilac Time
Lilac
Time has been an annual event at St Patrick’s for several years,
thanks to the hospitality of neighbour Vicki King who opens her garden
for a parishioners’ tea party in the early part of summer.
Picture: Lilac Time 2005 - Serving Teas from Vicki King’s Garden Shed