Faith

BRITAIN'S first black bishop joined hundreds of people in celebrating the 25th anniversary of the ordination of a priest who is a key figure in the community.

Reverend Wilfred Wood visited St Lawrence Church, in Bridle Road, Eastcote, along with more than 200 people to mark Reverend Stephen Dando's anniversary.

A special festival service was held, followed by a feast of food from all over the world and a live music performance by congregation member, Duncan Sykes, with his band 'Logo'.

Rev Dando was then presented with many gifts, including money for a new set of robes and an engraved tankard.

As well as being Britain's first black bishop, Rev Wood, was also a major building block in the foundation of Rev Dando's own faith and priestly ministry.

Rev Dando and his wife, Elaine, were also the first couple that Rev Wood ever married back in 1974. He travelled from his home in Barbados especially to be at Rev Dando's silver jubilee on September 30.

Bishop Pete Broadbent, the bishop of Willesden, was also present at the celebrations and gave the final blessing.

Rev Dando became vicar of St Lawrence Church in June 2005 and has become a key figure in the community.

CHURCH members in Eastcote have set themselves a target to plant 75 trees in a year to mark the 75th anniversary of the dedication of the church building.

The Mayor of Hillingdon, Councillor Brian Crowe, planted the first tree at St Lawrence Church in Bridle Road, Eastcote, on October 12 to mark the start of the church's 75 Trees for 75 Years project.

The Reverend Stephen Dando said: "Over the next 12 months we want to make sure we have planted 75 trees, but I suspect we will plant more than that.

"Individual members of the church will plant trees in their own gardens, some will sponsor trees to be planted, and various organisations will also plant trees.

"Eastcote Residents' Association have expressed an interest in planting a tree and we will be talking to the schools as well.

"Although the idea sprung from us it's for the whole community. The trees will be planted throughout the parish. "

The project is just one of many events which has been held since the start of the year to mark the anniversary on Tuesday, October 21

Carlo Curley, the famous American organist, gave a recital at the church and a dedication ball was also held at the church.

Mr Dando said: "It's a major marking point so we wanted to celebrate it throughout the year with all sorts of events to include the whole community, and we couldn't cram it all into one day."

A special 75th Dedication Service is being held on October 21 at 8pm for anyone who wants to attend.

IT IS not too late to snap up tickets to see an internationally renowned concert which takes place in Eastcote.

Carlo Curley's Organ Extravaganza will take place at St Lawrence Church Eastcote, Bridle Road, on Friday, October 10.

Mr Curley is a dynamic and entertaining International Concert Organist and will perform on a specially hired three-manual Makin digital organ.

Admission is ticket only and costs £8 with wine and refreshments available during the interval.

Shipshapes Holiday Club at St Andrew's United Reformed Church, Bridle Road, Eastcote.

CHAMPION'S CHALLENGE - a slightly sporty theme for a Bible-based week of fun. The programme includes games, DVD episodes, team challenges, crafts, drama, action songs, story-telling, etc.

Mornings 10am to 12.30pm, Tuesday 26th - Friday 29th August, and again on Sunday 31st August.
For all children aged five to 11.

Cost is £8 for the week (£6.50 for subsequent children of the same family).

Contact Roy Cadoux 020 8868 9002 or email roy.cadoux@lineone.net