The intention for Sunday’s mass was the Golden Wedding Anniversary of Joyce and Jim Birney.

Sadly due to ill health Jim was unable to be with us in church for the celebration but he was surely present in our thoughts and prayers.  Joyce was delighted to have all her children Peter, Margaret, Christopher and Austin at mass with their families along with her many friends, some of whom had travelled a long way to share in the occasion.

After mass we were invited into the Church Hall for a cup of tea and a slice of Celebration cake. There were some Wedding Day photographs on display and a bridesmaid from all those years ago brought along the bolero she wore on the day.

The family then went for a celebration lunch at Ravensworth Golf Club and then to visit Jim at the South Chowdene Care Home for more photographs and cake.

Joyce and Jim have lived in St Anne’s parish since its formation. Over the years they have made a tremendous contribution to parish life in ways too numerous to mention. We all owe them an enormous debt of gratitude for their generosity and friendship over 50 years.

God bless you both and many congratulations from everyone at St Anne’s