I thought I'd inaugurate my new blog with a local story. I'm currently residing in the fair county of Essex (home of David Beckham, Birds of a Feather, Grange Hill, Stansted Airport and many other national treasures). Yet it is a far more humble matter which has grapsed my attention (and frustration) over the past week or so.
The Catholic parish of St. Augustine's in Barkingside (home to one of my good friends) has run a successful club for several years now - a club which is fully self-sustainable from a financial point of view, popular, and brings together people from all walks of life in the community. For a church threatened with dwindling numbers - you'd think such an initiative would be a God-send (pardon the expression). Even if the folks going in there aren't all necessarily church-goers (although many are) - surely the church could see it as a potentially promising "recruitment ground" if nothing else.
Sadly, they don't. In spite of numerous reasoned objections, the local priest stealthily moved in earlier this week and changed the locks on the property. A community centre closed, many old people at a loss for what to do on a Friday or Saturday night. Ah well - too much fun is bad for the soul I suppose!
To find out more and see what has been said on this issue, an article has been published in the local paper (The Ilford Recorder): http://www.ilfordrecorder.co.uk/content/redbridge/recorder/news/story.aspx?brand=RECOnline&category=newsIlford&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=newsilford&itemid=WeED03%20Apr%202008%2009%3A00%3A30%3A617
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2 comments:
Despite the Priest chaining the club and hall closed on March 31st we are still going strong. We have had our AGM and a benefit for the former barstaff in the Guildhall [thanks again to Ilford Catholic Club] and are having a "Club Night" on the 12th July at the Dr Johnson's on Longwood Gardens from 8.30pm. Nothing too serious - just a bit of music and entertainment and a chance to keep our community together. You would be very welcome there.
Have you ever thought of taking holy orders - you seem an excellent replacement for Fr Bruxby.
It's a well patd job with many benefits, long holidays, 6 hours a week, own personal entourage (mainly female), large wine cellar and four bedroomed house with roll top bath!
You're very welcome on Saturday!
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