Community Bonds: Ardtully Retirement Residents and Our Local Churches

Every Wednesday morning, the clock strikes 11:00 AM, and the residents of Ardtully Retirement Home head to St. Edmund and St. Mary Church in Ingatestone for their weekly Holy Communion with Canon Lee.

This routine visit has become more than just a religious practice; it has turned into an integral part of their lives, connecting them with the church and the wider community.

The services, however, do not end with the communion service. We always have tea and cake and during Lent we have lunch together. The residents often stay behind to share in a wholesome meal of soup, bread, cheese, and cakes. These afternoons are a great way of bonding with the local community. These after-service meals have become a cherished tradition, bringing a sense of warmth and fellowship that extends beyond the church walls.

Home Visits For Spiritual Enrichment

Not all residents can make it to the church, but this doesn’t mean they miss out on the spiritual enrichment. John and Meg, who are also regular churchgoers, take it upon themselves to visit us at Ardtully to conduct Bible readings for those unable to attend. Additionally, Liz visits the home monthly to provide Holy Communion for our residents, helping them stay spiritually connected.

Community Engagement At Elim Church’s Hope Cafe

St. Edmund and St. Mary Church is just one of the three churches in the area that our residents are affiliated with. Another is Elim Church which hosts the much-anticipated Hope Cafe every Friday. Our residents look forward to these visits, where they can engage in friendly chats, enjoy a hot cup of tea, and catch up with friends from the local area.

Collaborative Charity Projects

We have collaborated with our local churches on several occasions, using their combined efforts to raise money for various charities. One of their recent projects involved knitting forget-me-not flowers to raise funds for Alzheimer’s research, a cause that is close to all our hearts.

Extending Community Spirit To The Youngest Generation

The churches’ impact on our home extends beyond the residents. They have brought immense joy to us at Ardtully, with many new friends attending our summer BBQ. Even the youngest members of the community, children aged 2-3 from the local preschool, have joined in, visiting us to read to our residents.

The Impact Of Community Bonds

The lovely partnership between Ardtully’s residents and our local churches is a testament to the power of community bonds. It shows how religious institutions can serve as more than just spiritual centres, fostering a sense of belonging that enriches the lives of all involved.