Co-Chair North Ruth’s Blog: 26th February 2024
Greetings!
Last Week we had a District Day and for the first time for many years, it was held in Runcorn, so it was good to be able to meet new people and to share MWiB news. It was an early start, so I picked up three friends and then set my Satnav. ‘This postcode has not been recognised’, announced the Satnav. Fortunately, one of my passengers had her phone with her which did accept the postcode so off we set. All was well, apart from the weather, until we reached the outskirts of Runcorn and the complicated road system! We had to turn round four times and when we eventually could see the church, bollards had been erected so we had to turn round again to find an alternative route. In the end we sought the help of a lady who was walking down the street and with her excellent directions, were able to arrive in time. Travelling home was no problem at all!
Rev Tim and Angela MacQuiban, who had been serving as mission partners in Rome, were the speakers. They explained what life had been like in Rome. Tim had been the Ecumenical officer and took part in services with ministers and priests from other churches including the Pope from St.Peter’s Basillica.
Tim and Angela had worked closely with Fiona Kendal, also a Mission Partner, who works for Mediterranean Hope as their European and Legal Affairs Advisor. They told us of the work that is going on with migrants and refugees, particularly on the island of Lampedusa. Italy is the closest land mass to the coast of North Africa so many displaced people risk their lives to cross the Mediterranean in boats and many have lost their lives.
Tim and Angela concluded their talks with a quiz about Italy – we learned a lot! We received a wonderful welcome and hospitality from the ladies of the circuit, so thank you to all who took part and I hope we will be able to come and visit you again before too long.
Blessings
Ruth
