THE service at St Catherine’s Church was a special one to commemorate the Rev Canon Clive Porthouse’s 50 years of ministry, and his last service, with his wife Marion, as pastoral leaders of Crook.
All the church windowsills held floral arrangements made by Audrey Rowlinson and her helpers, and a capa-city congregation of friends and family was joined by Canon Tim Montgomery, to lead the Holy Communion part of the service.
Marion Porthouse led the service and Clive chose the subject The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love to preach a sermon.
During the service churchwardens Tony Fitch and Don Webster presented Clive and Marion with the traditional gift from Crook Church, a shepherd’s crook each.
Anne Poynter had made a card, which was filled with numerous messages of goodwill.
Clive and Marion thanked everyone and paid tribute to Alan and Margaret Croxford, who worked tirelessly for the ten years preceding their own ministry at St Cathe-rine’s.
Alan and Margaret were present at the service and meal, where more than 100 people enjoyed a lunch at the memorial hall, organised by Judi Webster and many helpers.
After a delicious meal, a further presentation was made to Clive and Marion – a cake made and iced by Kath Jackson.
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