Thank-you Heather for 25 Years of Ministry!

Sunday, June 23 marked the end of the Sunday School year for the Church of the Epiphany, Surrey. The parish took this occasion to mark 25 years of ministry by Heather Melder in her role as leader of the Sunday School. During the Announcements segment of worship prior to the Dismissal, Heather was unexpectedly invited to come to the front of the Church along with present and past members of the Sunday School. Also included were past and present Sunday School leaders who had shared ministry with Heather during her time in leadership.  with her during that time.

The parish made a number of presentations to Heather: two outdoor plants for her garden (a real passion for her), and a gift certificate for Blue Ruby where she might pick out a piece to commemorate her years. However, the principal gift was a charitable one. In Heather's name the parish purchased sheep, goats, chickens and a cow via the PWDRF World of Hope program. With the government multipying each gift by 6, the over $800 that was raised becomes $5000 through this scheme!

Both Heather and the parish were delighted at this outcome honouring her wonderful years of service by supporting families seeking to make a living in different parts of the world. Supporting PWRDF has always been important for the parish but also for Heather. Heather spearheaded a number of fundraising events over the years with the kids and for children's Christian formation as part of the parish's contributions to the Anglican Development Fund.

IMAGES

• The Gifts, presented by former pupils: Zac Groves, Charlotte Anonby, Gareth Anonby, assisted by Al Denham seen on the right
• Heather with Al Denham, Debbie Osborne, Joan Harris and Amanda Lokay
• Heather receives words of appreciation and a gift from the rector/reporter, the Reverend Stephen Rowe as Jenny Freeborn (present teacher) looks on
• The rector/reporter and kids ...

Photos: Carol Williams