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Queensway Chapel, Melksham, WiltshireWe’ve had a busy year keeping up with all that is going on here at Melksham. The most exciting thing was the purchase of another building, which is to be used mainly for the Family Centre, youth work and Hope counselling. Praise God for providing this building and also for sending the workers who will undertake the many tasks necessary to make it suitable for our use. The extra space will be most welcome and we look forward to occupying it when all modifications have been made.
SESSIONS HAVE GROWN TOO:• ‘Tots Praise’ has increased again and is now a weekly session, including a craft time followed by a shared lunch. The non-threatening setting of lunch time often gives opportunities to share concerns and information which does not always seem possible in a large group setting. We are very encouraged to hear children (who as yet can’t read) singing the words to “Jesus’ love is very wonderful ...” and other songs that they learn at ‘Tots Praise’ (and I’m told they continue to sing as they travel home!).• The visiting service has been very much in demand with referrals made from Social Services, Health Visitors and other professionals. This is a much-used service providing practical help and support to needy families. • Funding given from ‘Sure Start’ enabled a ‘Stay and Play’ session to begin in the local homeless hostel in June. The aim is to provide an environment where families can meet and we encourage them to attend sessions at the Chapel. As the families are often re-housed after a very short while it is difficult to form strong relationships with the parents.
• Parent volunteers are increasing and we welcome all the gifts and experience they bring. A new venture encouraging ‘home-workers’ to help prepare craft activities has been very successful with 6 volunteers immediately put to work. It is most encouraging to note that three parents who have benefited from ‘Chill Out’ in the past are now on the staff.
• God has continued to provide all that we need, both financially and practically. We have trusted in Him to keep us going and we have a great deal to be thankful for.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding; Proverbs 3 v 5 Sheila Sinclair
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