Cumbria MWiB’s “Together at Thornleigh” Grange-o-Sands with Hilary Evans, Past President of MWiB
We were delighted to have Hilary leading our 11th Residential at Thornleigh, her title being “One Fine Day”.
After our opening worship and welcome led by Rev Jackie Betts, Hilary commenced her first talk by guiding us to think about ourselves in today’s world and the influences on our own lives. Then, onto the life of Jesus growing into a man, not only in Nazareth, but also working as a carpenter on the rebuilding of Sepphoris, Herod Antipas’s new exotic city in the hills, where there would have been many other influences on Jesus’ life in that place. Hilary also drew our attention to the Ethiopian Bible and showed us different images of Christ, as well as unusual art work to focus on and discuss together in small groups.
The next day, we took a fresh & inciteful look at Mary Magdalene & Lydia, (hence the purple banners in the photo). Then the Marys Ward & Bosanquet, progressing forward in time to Fanny Crosby, Sybil Phoenix, Pauline Webb & Rachel Held-Evans, all inspirational women in their own times.
Hilary’s final session focused on the ways God can lead us, sharing her story of becoming President of MWiB & all it involved. This included her visit to Mexico, having an interest & concern for trafficked people, as well as the plight of migrants trying to cross the “Wall” into the USA ( ref photo). Hilary certainly gave us food for thought, for which we are truly indebted to her, as well as for the super handouts she provided at each session.
As usual, we had social and fellowship time together over coffee & excellent meals; with a lovely crafting session facilitated by Hilary in our “free time” slot. Five member of Harps North West graced our first evening, with a concert of beautiful calm & lilting music. This was in contrast to the laughs and banter we enjoyed the following night in a popular quiz session, ably led by Kathleen. There were of course, chocs & prizes, even for the losers !
Our evenings ended with prayers, thoughtfully led by members, as were our morning prayers. Wednesday’s final session concluded as always, with a Communion Service, this year led by our very own Rev Mary Elliot, who sensitively & prayerfully brought together all aspects of our time together, in a very special way.
We give praise & thanks to God for all the blessings we received in our time at Thornleigh with Hilary, and for the staff who worked so hard to make our stay so enjoyable. Delphine 19/11/2025
