This morning we had a real celebration: Canon Michael Ratcliffe celebrated 40 years of Priesthood, and during the service he baptised Theo Thomas Edward who has been coming to church since shortly after his birth. Michael reflected on 40 years of priesthood – what had changed for better or for worse – and shared some of the delights he has enjoyed as a priest. Theo’s big sister, Sophie, made a beautiful card for Michael – he was really touched.
At the end of the service Michael was presented with gifts from church members – a real Sussex trug, a trowel and a fork, and two boxes of seeds.
Michael and Carol generously provided lunch for the whole congregation – people really enjoyed tucking in to a fabulous spread! It was good to welcome visitors from Michael’s old parish of St Paul’s Oswaldtwistle who had come to share in our celebrations
It was also lovely to welcome Fay back to church after two months off with a broken hip!
So, well done Michael and very many congratulations!