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The church and older people Whilst the church exists to serve people of all ages, and has a very active youth programme, it is very conscious of the fact that there are many older people in the community who are often lonely and lack the support of families near at hand. Recognising that this problem is probably most acute amongst women it has encouraged the setting up of a meeting for such people. Last year the existing Women’s Club was re-formed and reorganised into a new group which calls itself The Evergreen Ladies. They meets in St. Francis Church Hall on the first Tuesday of every month and aim to provide friendship, stimulation and conversation over a cup of tea in a Christian environment. The meetings are not formal, the club has no officials and no book of rules and so far the meetings have been lead by individual members. It was soon discovered that everybody has a tale to tell and there have been some most interesting talks about the personal history of the speakers. As one person described it:
Well now they can and this shared life experience has been much appreciated by the members. The ministry team at St. Francis have also been involved in leading some meetings and made thought-provoking contributions. At Christmas the Evergreen Ladies arranged a lunch party at a local restaurant and there are plans in hand for an expedition to the countryside this Summer. A programme for the Autumn is in the course of preparation and may include contributions from friends of members and even men! Separate from this women’s group, but related to it in its objectives, is the Lunch which some ladies put on each Thursday. It serves a simple meal in a friendly atmosphere and is open to all people including those who have been shopping and are ready for a sit-down, something to eat and some one to talk to. This is open to all people women and men and is seen as another means of outreach from the church to the public at large.
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