Having stayed in Ashton overnight after the most amazing night out I am this morning having a tour round my first patch as a probationer minister. I was sent to the then Ashton under Lyne Circuit in stationing frighteningly 29 years ago.
Ashton is looking a bit tired. The market is still there but it felt sad.
The old Stamford Street Methodist Church is now apartments…
I then went on to Park Road in Dukinfield where stood Tame Valley church. It’s now nowhere to be seen! No trace of it ever being there.
Then after getting a bit lost in Stalybridge I went up to Millbrook. This is now a house.
Then a pilgrimage through Bottom Mossley to Top Mossley. The assortment of shops in Bottom Mossley is as ever was. Bob’s Butty Bar does “English specials.” I wonder what they are!
Gladly one of my churches is still open! The church in Mossley is still there and active.
Travelling round I have remembered many saints who formed me as a minister all those years ago. I’ve remembered a lot of laughter. But it’s very sad so many churches are no more. However I’ll always be grateful to the church for sending me to this spot. Your first appointment can make or break you. I’m remembering this week all those in stationing and probationers hearing in January. We have a probationer with us and I’m doing my best to make sure she has as happy a start as I did.
Hot chocolate and off home…
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