Sunday 15 June was the very fond farewell service to the much loved Pastor of Rosedale Community Church, Cheshunt: Rev Bethany Burrage. It was a day of mixed emotions: sadness to say goodbye to Bethany and her daughter Hannah, who will be moving with her, and at the same time, a celebration of all that she has achieved during her time at Rosedale. She has been a member for nearly 17 years and following ordination, she was appointed as the Minister nearly seven years ago.

Bethany established and led the Sunday School and youth work for 10 years; ran holiday Bible Clubs enjoyed by many local children; took the youth on camps and joined in all sorts of activities, including water fights! Bethany established the Warm Welcome nearly three years ago where members of the community enjoy friendship, activities and lunch. The numbers have gone from strength to strength and it has been described as a lifesaver by several people. She has run groups and courses, and spoken in local schools and at clubs for older people, as well as inspiring the church. She started a Walk for Wellbeing which has been a huge success for members of the congregation and the community and a Parent & Toddlers group which has been hugely popular. And all who attended will never forget last Christmas Day when Bethany and her daughters hosted Christmas dinner and an afternoon of entertainment at the church.

A number of people spoke in praise of Bethany‘s ministry and involvement in the community, mentioning the parts played by her four lovely daughters.

Our president, ex-president and two trustees of The Connexion expressed their thanks and good wishes, as well as various members of the congregation. The president changed hats as it were and also spoke as the UK Head of the Sierra Leone Mission, praising Bethany’s involvement, which has included two ministry trips to Sierra Leone, and greetings and thanks were received and read out from Magnus: the Bishop of Sierra Leone. Janet had travelled from Cornwall to be with us; Joe & Elizabeth from the Isle of Sheppey. Councillor Mark Mills Bishop spoke on behalf of Broxbourne Borough Council and Hertfordshire County Council, praising Bethany’s tireless work for the community and the very real differences she has made. Councillor Paul Seeby was also in attendance. All this was to a back drop of pictures taken over the years.

Bethany has led from the front, encouraging others to try new things and develop their gifts. She has supported both members of the church and people in the community with no connection to the church and has gone the extra mile on very many occasions.

At the conclusion of the service, Bethany passed on a literal baton (very appropriate for a runner: Bethany established Park Run in the area) to the new Pastor, Alex, who will be in post from September.

The service was followed by a delicious buffet and an opportunity to take the microphone to give thanks and express good wishes to Bethany and her daughters. We are losing someone very dear to us but wish her well as she returns to her roots and takes up the post of Pastor of West Auckland Vineyard Church in County Durham.

Lynn Sobczak