Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
18th—25th January 2006
St.Andrew’s Parish Church, together with the United Reformed Church and The Holy Family Church at Heath End, were the hosts for this years Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Daily prayers and readings were followed from the book prepared by the churches of Northern Ireland.
The subjects were: Gathering, Community, Forgive!, Surprise, Mission, Presence, Reconcile, Hope. We were pleased to be led by representatives of various denominations, and even more pleased to see friends from all the churches attending.
Unity service 2006
On Sunday 22nd January at St.James’ Church in Rowledge around 100 people attended an afternoon service to mark the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The order of service followed the one written for the occasion on the chosen theme for the week 'Where two or three are gathered in my name'. The Vicar of Rowledge, Rev Clive Richardson and the minister of Rowledge Methodist Church, Rev Malcolm Groom took part. Mr Tony Staite was the preacher.
Members of both churches in the village were involved in the service as were others from a number of different churches in Farnham. The St James’ Choir was joined by members of the Methodist Wesleyan Singers.
Following the service many people stayed for a bring and share tea in the church rooms. There was a very warm atmosphere and many commented on how much they had appreciated the ecumenical occasion.