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Moseley Chimes
October 2008
Where were you born and did you attend church regularly as a child?
I was born in Carshalton, in Surrey. My family were members of the Society of Friends (Quakers) and we all attended Quaker meetings regularly. Louis and I were married at Bournville Quaker Meeting House.
What brought you to Birmingham and when did you first come to St Mary’s?
We came to Birmingham from London in 1988 when I was seconded to a job here from the British Council. We are still here! I now work for Birmingham University. I started attending St Mary’s when Alex (now age 14) started attending Moseley C of E Primary School. I became a children’s group leader a couple of years ago.
You have recently become Children’s Group Coordinator at St Mary’s. What responsibilities does this mean?
Probably more than I bargained for! And I am still finding out what it involves. Essentially though it means organising the rotas of leaders and helpers for each week’s classes, and ensuring they have the materials and support they need to undertake this important part of the Church’s work. There is also the coordination of other aspects of the children’s activities, including the children’s Christmas production and the Christmas party — but I am hoping to delegate either or both of these.
What hobbies and interests do you have?
I enjoy cycling, hill walking, and dancing - country dancing in particular. I also enjoy listening to a wide variety of music. Favourites? Mahler, Stravinsky, Keith Jarrett and the Beach Boys.
What services do you enjoy?
I enjoy the 10:00 a.m. services best — I like them most when there are a lot of people and plenty of singing.
What do you look forward to doing for the work of Children’s Group?
I am keen to find ways of integrating the Children’s groups more effectively with the rest of Church, and involving more people in working with the children. It is too early to say how yet, this needs more discussion and thinking, but if anyone has ideas, I’d be delighted to hear from you.