West Melton United Reformed Church Melton High Street, Wath-upon-Dearne, Rotherham, S63 6RG Secretary: Mr John Paskell, 1 Giles Avenue, Wath-upon-Dearne, Rotherham, S63 6SG Tel: 01709 879224 MISSION STATEMENT To spread the Good News of the Gospel to the people of West Melton by taking every opportunity to make our Christian purpose clear. THE LOCAL SETTING The church is in a rural setting in which the main occupation used to be mining. It is part of a regeneration scheme which is brining new jobs and small businesses to the area. It is about halfway between the centres of Barnsley and Rotherham. THE CHURCH BUILDINGS The church was formed in 1797 and the church built in 1799. There is a small field for activities and a burial ground behind the church. The church is a Grade 2 listed building which has to be considered when maintenance and updating need to take place. Next to the church we have our Community Hall which has recently undergone major refurbishment and now complies with the disabled access legislation. The hall is well used and is available for hire by members of the local community. CHURCH ACTIVITIES Worship is held at 10.30am on the first and fourth Sundays and 3.00pm on the second and third. When there is a fifth Sunday there is a joint morning service with the other local churches (Methodist & Anglican). The service on the first Sunday is linked to and involves the 'Whizz Kids' from the twice monthly Friday Fun Night (for 5 - 12 year olds). For older children we have an ecumenical youth group PUMAR (Pentecostal, United Reformed, Methodist, Anglican and Roman Catholic). A mens' breakfast is held at 8.00am on the third Saturday of each month, it is attended by men from the local churches. All men are welcome. No need to book, just turn up. The breakfast concludes with a time of worship which is appreciated by all who are present. The Sisterhood (ladies meeting) meets on Monday afternoons for a time of worship, speakers and other activities. Our prayer group "PRAYING HANDS" meets at 7.30pm on the second Wednesday every month On the fourth Wednesday every Month, starting at 7.30pm, social events are held under the title 'Fellowship'. This provides an opportunity for folk to have fun together listening to speakers, playing games such as Beetle. The evening ends with light refreshments. Mums and Tots (probably not a politically correct title!!!) meet every Wednesday. This provides an opportunity for children up to the age of four to play together and for their 'carers' to chat and exchange anxieties and news. Various other social/fund raising events are held during the year including our very popular Christmas Fair. BYRON LODGE It is a great privilege for the church to visit this local care home once a month to lead worship and chat to the residents. This is seen as a very important part of our outreach and care for those outside of the church. Some very good friends have been made at Byron Lodge over the years. For more details please contact the secretary or minister.