Thank You Esther!

Twenty-two members of the St Caths Plus crew gathered at Alfred's Bistro in Pontypridd to celebrate the end of the first year of the St Caths Plus project, and to thank Esther Sowerby for her wonderful leadership through the year.

Others popped in to add their best wishes and thanks, and a great celebration was enjoyed by all.

It seems hard to imagine now that the St Caths Plus project is only just a year old, with the regular lunches, afternoon teas, Welsh classes, book club, keep fit sessions, concerts and so much more all going on regularly - and this on top of all the friendships, the Mothers Union, and the work of the visiting & pastoral team guided by Gill Tuck. Our aim to make life better for older people in Pontypridd has taken a huge step forwards this year.

And of course Esther has been key to this - her enthusiasm and energy, and her willingness to be there for everyone has been infectious. We could not have done it without her!

Stewart Franklin, former Vicar's warden (and Book Club aficianado) spoke warmly and personally, and presentations of Welsh slate plaques were made both to Esther as a token of heartfelt thanks from everyone at St Catherine's, and also to Gill for all her service and kindness in the parish. Others added their cards and gifts, and all added applause & acclaim.

Champagne was also flowing - Jane & Teg Lewis had a 45th wedding anniversary to mark, so everyone raised a glass and joined in their celebration as well!

It's just days now till Anne Swann joins the team to take the work on from where Esther has left it; for sure, God has blessed us richly, and we look back with great gratitude and forwards with eager anticipation as we continue our desire to serve our whole community with the love of Jesus, and to make people's lives better.