Last month it was time for the AGM when the records for the Annual Accounts were presented and approved. The review of last year’s activities was read and an opportunity for members to discuss some of the details.

We then had the usual Wave of Prayer Worship, prepared by the Diocese. This year’s theme was taken from a verse in the bible from Isaiah 49, ‘I will not forget you, see I have engraved you in the palm of my hand’.  We each had a print of a hand and were asked to write on it the name of a person or situation to pray for in particular.  Some of the members read out the names of the five Link Diocese overseas, together with prayers sent by them. There were prayers, responses and readings to say together – a very meaningful service. The palm prints have been placed n church by the candle stand for people to read.

 The Chard Churches Together World Day of Prayer service is on Friday  1st March at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Furnham, at 2pm, followed by special refreshments. The service has been prepared this year by the women of Palestine.

At our next meeting on the 5th March at 2.45pm, the speaker will be Anne Perez. Who will tell us about her journey in training for the Ministry.  Everyone is welcome, whether they are a member or not.

To celebrate Mothering Sunday on the 10th March, we have been sent the M.U. Make a Mother’s Day appeal, and are asked to give a ‘gift of dignity’ that will empower women and families to turn the tide on gender inequality, and improve lives in poor communities around the world.

Please bring your donations for this to the next meeting, or hand to Rita or myself.  Anyone may feel free to donate.

Best wishes, Heather Elphick, Branch Leader

The Lord’s Larder

Our church members were always generous with donations for the Lord’s Larder until the way the system operated had to be changed during the pandemic.   However, you may not be aware that for some time now we have been accepting gifts which we are taking to the Lord’s Larder base at Forefront.

Unfortunately there are many families struggling now with rising costs and help is needed more than ever.  Any donations you can make when you come to our Sunday Services or at any time during the week when our church is always open will be greatly appreciated.

CHARD LORD’S LARDER

Every Thursday at 7pm in St. Mary’s Church.

Our meetings are open to all, you do not need to be a member of St. Mary’s Church.

The meditation begins with a short reading followed by twenty minutes of silent contemplative prayer, also known as meditation.

If you would like to join us please let me know in order that I may keep you updated regarding venue.  If you have no experience of Christian meditation or you would like to discuss anything about this please feel free to contact me. Meanwhile I look forward to welcoming you at our meetings.    Robin

Chard Chimes –

The Magazine of St. Mary’s Church, Chard

Thank you to everyone who has paid for another year’s issue of the Chard Chimes.  We hope you continue to enjoy reading our        magazine.

Many thank too, to our faithful team who deliver  the Chimes every month.

If you are a new reader and would like to subscribe  and have the magazine delivered to you, subject to your address being within the scope of delivery people, pldease contact me on

chardchimes @  gmail.com 

Patricia , Editor

Thank you for supporting our church magazine