The Feast of Consecration

The Foundation Stone of our Church was laid by Mrs Stoneham of Orchard House on Saturday 7th October 1899 at 3pm.
The venerable Archdeacon of Maidstone (formerly Rector of Crayford) gave the address.

The Church was Consecrated on Thursday 18th October 1900 at 3pm. By the Right Reverend the Lord Bishop of Dover. Several local clergy were present, and the Hymns( which we will sing again on Sunday 3rd October) were:

• "All people that on earth do dwell"
• "The Churches one foundation"
• "Christ is made the sure foundation"

At 7.30pm, an Evening service was held, where the Guest Preacher was the Rural Dean (Rector of North Cray)

The First Sunday Services took place on Sunday 21st October 1900:

• 8.30am Holy Communion
• 3.30pm Children's Service
• 6.30pm Evensong

There was one weekday service on Thursday 25th October 1900 7.30pm Evensong with a sermon preached by the Vicar of Dartford.

On Sunday 3rd October we will be celebrating our Feast of Consecration. Our worship will reflect:

• A big thank you to God for the past
• The Renewal of Baptismal Vows
• The Consecration of ourselves in the Service of God
• Our Foundation for the Future

The 3rd October 2004 Services will be at the following times:

• 7.30am Morning Prayer & Litany
• 8.00am Holy Eucharist
• 10.30am Sung Eucharist and the Renewal of Baptismal Vows ( & Sunday School)
• 1.00pm Holy Baptism
• 3.00pm Service at Shaftesbury Court
• 4.00pm Holy Baptism
• 5.00pm Evensong (Choral) with Sermon & Benediction (followed by a social gathering and presentation for your Readers)*

Neil 1st October 2004

* "A very big thank you for those who have given so generously towards the collection for Keith & John."