The History of St James's Social Life
It is not clear to what extent any organised social life existed in the village prior to 1863 but the early history of both St James's Church and the village of Hampton Hill were inextricably linked. The social life and groups of St James's have changed and developed out of all recognition over the years. The first vicar, Revd Fitz Wygram, saw his role as improving both the spiritual and social conditions of the new parish, and this included developing a wide range of social organisations. There are a number of ways that we still seek to build up the church’s social life, and community. Have a look at Social Life through the years which shows what happened from when records began up until 2017. • Refreshments after the 9.30am (Parish Breakfast) and 11am services continued to be very important in making new people feel welcome and enabling members to talk to one another. Through the years other occasions occur including St James’s Day, breakfast on Easter day, Harvest Lunch and mulled wine after the Carol Service. • In the summer of 2017 more social events were requested and so the newly named Social Team planned a year of events, including a Lent quiz night, fish and chip supper and a curry night. • A new community-based project, primarily for older people, was launched in February 2018 and was called Connections. Meeting in church, on the first Tuesday of the month from 11.00 - 12.30, it provided friendship and support and a great opportunity to meet people in a safe environment. • From March 2020, nearly every week during the Covid-19 Pandemic Derek organised a virtual coffee morning Thursdays on Zoom. After a holiday break, this resumed on Tuesday mornings. These bullet points only show some information from this period. The Annual Parochial Church Meeting Reports show the latest reports from most teams and groups. The History of St James's GroupsOver the years, many different groups came and went, and those not directly organised by, or associated with, the church took on a separate life of their own much as they have today. Have a look at St James's Groups through the years which shows what happened from when records began up until 2017. Social Groups • During 2017 St James's Ramblers group was formed running for about eighteen months, with occasional two mile walks ending with pub lunches. Prayer and Study Groups Find out about these groups/courses on the page The History of Prayer & Study Groups . These bullet points only show some information from this period. The Annual Parochial Church Meeting Reports show the latest reports from most teams and groups.
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