Fahan Presbyterian Women celebrate 50 years

Fahan P.W celebrated its 50^th anniversary last on 14^th September 2010.

History.
 On Wednesday 14^th September 1960 the following ladies of Fahan and Inch Churches had met in Fahan Church. Mrs R Stewart, Mrs H. Bryce, Mrs Hamilton, Miss A Cresswell, Mrs G Bryce, Mrs B Bryce, Miss L Cresswell, Mrs D Elder, Mrs Milligan, Miss Lamberton, Mrs Fair, Mrs M Hamilton and Mrs H Ferguson.

It was decided to form a branch of the W.M.A and the following office leaders were elected; Mrs R.N Stewart President, Miss S Cresswell Vice President, Mrs H Ferguson Secretary.

It was decided that the meetings should be held on the 2^nd Wednesday of every month. The next meeting was to take place on the 12^th October 1960. It was decided each member should take a mission box.

          It was decided that tea and biscuits should be provided for members at each meeting and every member is to contribute towards the cost. Mrs R.N Stewart suggested that there should be a missionary meeting and a non missionary meeting alternatively. The next night would be a sweet making night and Mrs H Bryce agreed to make toffee. Mrs R.N Stewart spoke about the life work of two missionaries Mrs McClenaghan and Miss Burns who were sailing from Liverpool the following day.

The above is a copy of the original minutes.

          Fifty one years later the W.M.A is now called Presbyterian Women (P.W) and we meet every 3^rd Wednesday monthly in the church hall from September to April. The first meeting in September is usually when the program is discussed and planned. We try to do something from the P.W pack in the month of January, as this is a unpredictable month weather wise and unfair to ask a guest speaker to travel.

          Over the years the members have listened to many speakers, from missionaries talking about their experiences abroad, members of the congregation who have been away on youth work with teams, craft people showing how to make cards, paint glass and pictures, flower arranging and cookery demonstrations. Enjoyable nights have been recommended in the minutes and some have been attended by visiting guests from local churches.

          After a financial report the members decide what local charities they would like to donate to. Over the years we have given to R.N.L.I, Buncrana Nursing Unit, ICARE, Nazareth House and Red Cross. The missionary boxes are collected every year and the money sent to head quarters.

Click here for a copy of the Church Announcement sheet published on the sunday after the above presentation. Please go to page 11.