I suppose it won't surprise anyone that I found the welcome service last night a wonderful occasion.
Alison preached a cracker, PJ is clearly going to be an absolute hoot and delight to work with. We had a good Methodist sing and we were supported by loads of family and friends - what more could you ask for?
I now have a nice shiny certificate on the wall signed by the President and General Sectretary of Conference authorising me to preside at communion in this circuit - handy as I will be doing so twice on Sunday ;-)
We had a great day, staff meeting in the morning which on a lovely sunny day was a very nice 6 mile ride each way. That is where I met PJ for the first time and we then proceeded to make live more difficult for Michael by enjoying checking out each others sense of humour.
During the day loads of relatives and friends gathered at the manse to come and support us. It was really good as many travelled 3 hours or more just for that. It seems a long time since we have come together as a family for a happy event which made a lovely change.
Lots of the congeregations from our section of the circuit were also there to support us.
The service ended with a very dramatic thunderstorm with the most lightning I have seen in a long long time, but the rain stopped just as we got home so we did not even get wet.
Anyway, just off for a meeting with Michael and got to be ready for Franks calling for hymns for Sunday evening.
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