Long Stratton Celebration

28 September 2022

Celebration of 50 years of the Congregational Federation

Long Stratton Congregational Church held an afternoon tea on Saturday 6th August to celebrate 50 years of the Congregational Federation. The Congregational Federation was set up in 1972 as an association of independent local churches whose mission is to empower, enable and equip the churches in their mission to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.

On a sunny warm day, tents were erected containing tables and chairs, plus seating in the hall, meaning there was enough room for everyone to sit and eat their food in comfort. Along the back wall was a line of tables groaning with food – sandwiches and savouries of all varieties, scones, cakes, that constitute a feast. A large Celebration cake was made by Naomi Fiddy and was shared by all.

This was the result of considerable planning. Meetings were held, jobs allocated, tents borrowed and erected, cakes baked, cleaning, food preparation on the day etc, etc.

A fantastic display of photos and congregational memorabilia of times and events past and present was on display in the church. Guests enjoyed trying to find themselves, some in Brownie and Girls Brigade Uniforms, and the choir from many years ago. It brought back a lot of precious memories for many. Friends met up who had not seen each other for many years and had a great time recalling their youthful days in the church – thanks in particular to Len Willis and his mini bus.

We also did a bit of fund raising to offset cost; with a raffle, tombola and a marble game. Many thanks to those running these and the friends who donated prizes and spent their money.

Over 60 people attended the afternoon of celebration and fellowship with many reports of how enjoyable the afternoon had been.

We are so grateful to the members, friends and guests who made the day joyful and successful. We are very aware that Long Stratton Congregational Church is not a building. It is a fellowship of people who join together, helping and supporting each other, and this was proven again on this memorable day.

Thank you everyone for your generosity in all that you provided – in goods, time, fellowship and friendship.