The
Phoenix Support Group for the bereaved
and lonely, began in 2006 and we are now in 2009 beginning our 4 th
year.
The
initiative for the group came from The Rev. Colin Bowden of
the Baptist Church . The Anglican and the Methodist Churches were invited
to ask for volunteers who had an interest in supporting people who had
been recently bereaved.
There
were more helpers than anyone else at that first meeting. We enjoyed
coffee and home made scones and arranged to meet a fortnight later.
Over the next weeks and months our membership grew and it soon became
evident that there were people who had experienced bereavement less
recently, and were continuing to feel vulnerable and lonely.
By
word of mouth, and articles in the Local Press membership increased
quite rapidly.
As
practical issues arose, we became members of Age Concern and
Lorraine Leyland has been most helpful in attending
our meetings and bringing a variety of advisors, who have not only addressed
the group but have given personal guidance too.
We
have also enjoyed many other speakers over the last 3 years, from all
walks of life. We have been educated informed and, entertained.
We
like to eat out. Lyndhurst Garden Centre, Catchwater Meadow and Woodthorpe
Garden Centre were firm favourites in 2008. One of the highlights was
a picnic at Orby House the home of the Spence sisters
The
group has developed into a lively and welcoming place where feelings
or concerns can be shared in confidence with one of the team.
Phoenix
members have formed friendships with each other;
many have found support within these new relationships but still like
to meet as a group. So by popular request we now meet weekly
at the Baptist Church in Burgh.
So
pop along any Wednesday between 10.30am – 12 noon all we ask is a donation
towards tea or coffee.
Phoenix
has the support of Father Terry Steele and the Rev.
Lindsay Kemp. The team members are all Christian people but
we are not here to impose our views, or try to get you to join the church!
(But you are very welcome to join with us in our services)
However
we will invite you to our social events, they are always good for a
laugh, and usually include food!
