St Francis’ Church says farewell to our churchwarden Jackie
September 18th, 2012
Jackie Drake-Smith at the lunch held to mark her departure as churchwarden as she beings her training for ministry.
Worshipers at St Francis’ Church have bid farewell to churchwarden Jackie Drake-Smith, who is leaving to take up training for ministry in the Church.
Jackie preached at the holy communion service on Sunday, September 16, her focus being Psalm 116, which includes the words: “I love the Lord, because he hears me; he listens to my prayers. He listens to me every time I call to Him…”
The service included a special part – our ‘Farewell to Jackie’. The congregation said the words: “As you journey onwards, we ask forgiveness where we have failed you; we give you thanks for all you have given us: we assure you of our love and prayers.”
The church was packed with regular worshipers, plus many of Jackie’s family and friends.
The children's group, Jigsaw, and leader Marie Maull present Jackie with leaving gifts.
At the close of the service members of the children’s group Jigsaw, presented Jackie with a card and presents. There were also further presents from everyone else. One of these was an alb – one of the garments worn by clergy.
After the service there was a roast lunch in the church hall attended by Jackie’s many friends at St Francis and members of her family.
We expect to see her back visiting us at Christmas when she can tell us all about her studies!
All photos by Mike Ellis.
The lunch.
Brenda and John Wakefield at the lunch.
Julia and Wayne McShane.
The Rev'd Stefanie Hodges.
