Love God, Serve People, Make Disciples
On Sunday 20 October, the new bell ropes for St Nicholas and St Faith were dedicated by Rev Laura. Each of the ropes was donated in memory of a former ringer or in thanks for all the church and tower has meant to them. The sallies are in the Cornish colours of black and gold, to reflect St Nicholas' and St Faith's position as the first church in Cornwall, as one arrives across the Tamar or Brunel bridges.
We sang the hymn Ding Dong Merrily on High, which as Laura pointed out, actually contains no direct reference to Christmas. And anyway, she said, it was good practice for the Christmas not too far ahead!
The ropes will be installed by Owen and Kevan Borlase from St Dominic tower over the coming weeks, and it is hoped will ring out for the Darkness to Light service on Advent Sunday.
The treble rope was donated in memory of John White by Ruth, Nicholas and Richard, and families. Forever in our hearts.
The second bell rope was donated in memory of William ‘Joe’ Clatworthy (1907-1964). A lifelong member of this church and choir. Wounded on D-Day.
The third bell rope was donated by Des and Ruth Frantom who rang here and who loved this church. Great memories of this wonderful church and the folk within.
The fourth bell rope has been donated in memory of Joyce and Phil Rundle MBE by their family. This church and its tower were special places throughout their lives.
The fifth bell rope was donated by Rev Preb Brian Anderson, priest at this church who also raised funds for the restoration of the tower.
The tenor rope was donated in memory of Mike Beer whose skilful hands rang all these bells by his loving daughters Kerry and Caroline and grandchildren Amber, Freya, Sonny and Toby.
Almighty God, we thank you for our bells, which proclaim by their ringing that you are here among us.We thank you for all those who ring, and especially for those who have rung here at St Nicholas and St Faith.We dedicate these new ropes to you; and we hold before you the memory of those in whose remembrance they have been donated:John White, Joe Clatworthy, Des and Ruth Frantom, Joyce and Phil Rundle, Father Brian Anderson, Mike Beer.And we ask you that, for this and for future generations the bells, with their ropes, may sound out your presence here in Saltash.In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen