Thought for July and August
An Armenian Orthodox Prayer
Keep us in peace O Christ our God,
under the protection of your holy and venerable cross;
save us from our enemies visible and invisible
and count us worthy to glorify you with thanksgiving O Christ
with the Father and the Holy Spirit
now and forever
world without end.
Amen
----------------------------
Tomorrow
Tomorrow, the service on Sunday, 5th July, 2026 is Holy Communion at 9:30 a.m. at St. Augustine’s.
On Thursday, there will be a Service of Holy Communion at 10 a.m.
We'd love you to join us!
Changes to the Family Service
From Sunday May 5th the 8:00 and 9:30 a.m. Family Service, on the first Sunday of the month, will be replaced with a single service of Holy Communion at 9:30 a.m.
All are warmly invited.
From September 2024 all Benefice Services will commence at 10 a.m.
PLEASE DO SUPPORT THE BENEFICE SERVICES, ALL WELCOME!
Midweek Services at St Augustine's
Please join us for our Thursday 10 a.m. Holy Communion Services on the first two Thursdays of the month.
------------------------------------------------------------
KIRKBY & GREAT BROUGHTON OPEN GARDENS
In aid of Christian Aid & Great Broughton Village Hall
Kirkby and Gt. Broughton Open Gardens June 14th
This was a very successful event, a wonderful day, beautiful gardens, lovely weather, & lots of visitors.
Teas were served in the Village Hall for Village Hall funds.
Total raised from tickets, donations & the plant stall was the magnificent sum of £1795.70.
A huge thank you to the gardeners & all those involved in making the day so successful.
Confirmation
If any adult or child aged eleven and over would like to prepare for Confirmation please let Anne Heading know.
If you are unsure what would be involved then please do ask.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Notes from The Parochial Church Council
1. When you come into the church porch, please do not forget the porch box for charitable donations.
These monies do not go for church funds but for some other charity nominated by PCC members.
2. If you would like to have your say in the Governance of the Church of England then the way to do it is by becoming a member of the Deanery Synod. This meets three times per year & is the local decision making body. Members of Deanery Synod can vote & resolutions may be passed to Diocesan & then further to General Synod, as the need arises.
If you would be interested please contact Anne Heading.
Members of Deanery Synod must be baptised and communicant members of the Church of England.
------------------------------------------------------------
Electoral Roll:
If you are baptised and resident in the parish and would like to join the Electoral Roll of the Church then please let David Chadwick or Anne Heading know.
Being on the Electoral Roll entitles you to vote in annual meetings if you wish to do so.
------------------------------------------------------
Childrens' Workshop Wednesday August 12th 1.30 - 3 p.m.
at St Augustine's Kirkby-in-Cleveland,
in the Church.
All children under 11 years are welcome.
Please contact Anne Heading or Sarah Weyell if you are coming anneheading8@gmail.com sarah.weyell@zen.co.uk
Coffee and Cakes
Thank you to all who have supported, and we hope enjoyed, their coffee and cakes at the monthly coffee mornings during the winter months.
Your generous donations, as in previous years, will be divided between three charities selected by your votes.
The three charities we will be supporting this year are Macmillan Nurses, Alzheimer's and Crohn's. They will be receiving £150 each.
We are planning to restart the coffee mornings again in the Autumn and we hope to see you then. Enjoy the sunny summer months!
Anna, Alison and Sheila
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Julie Brown
We are saddened to announce the death of Julie Brown. Many people will remember Julie with great affection from her years as village post lady. Her outstanding dedication to the role earned her a Community Award in the North East presented at a ceremony in London. Julie was widely regarded as a vital part of the local community. She was a friend to everyone & played an important role in helping to keep the village safe, keeping an eye on people's homes when they were away & looking out for the wellbeing of her neighbours. During her rounds, she took particular care to check on the sick & elderly, offering kindness & support wherever it was needed. She had a great love of animals & was passionate about fundraising & helping those grieving the loss of a beloved pet. Julie lived and worked in the village almost her entire life & will be fondly remembered for her warmth & generosity.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Please follow our churchyard etiquette
f you have a loved one buried in our church yard please could you ensure the grave is tidy and the Christmas wreaths have been removed to help with grass cutting.
With many thanks.
Church and Church Hall Path.
The path from the churchyard to the hall through the 'wilderness' has been cleared and we recommend the use of this path when accessing the church from the hall or even the church hall from the village. The path avoids the use of steps and also the problem of walking on the road which can be busy.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
CELEBRATION Wednesday 16th September 2026.
Anne Heading will be sixty and would like to invite ALL to come to Kirkby Church Hall to celebrate any time between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Just come along to enjoy meeting with others.
May be cake around about 4 p.m.?
Steps
For all pre-school children and their carers
Steps Service
in St Augustine's Kirkby- in- Cleveland.
There will be an event/ service for children in the summer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Generous Giving
The church team continues to be most grateful to people giving time, effort & money to help maintain our village church. We do not receive income from the state or from the Church of England, & increased essential operating costs, not least through inflation, now exceed income, last year by about £40 each month. We have decided to run a Generous Giving campaign, starting in July, in the hope that we can increase our resources & ensure that our church life & work can continue for the benefit of all who live in our two villages. More news next month!
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Dates for your Diary
Help needed to run the Church Hall
Could anyone, maybe recently retired, like to offer a few hours to the community by joining the small team who administer and run Kirkby Church Hall?
The Hall is an acknowledged asset to the village but needs another person to lend a hand opening and closing the hall for intermittent bookings, keeping an eye on tradesmen, maintenance jobs etc and ensuring everything is kept to a high standard for the many regular users each week.
Contact Anna 712797, Sheila 712321
Those of you who have been in the hall over the past month will have noticed that the main hall floor has been cleaned and resealed. We would like to thank Andy from DriNOW for the excellent finish he has given to the floor. We ask that people using the hall respect the floor and do not drag chairs or equipment over it. There is a trolly for moving the chairs in the store cupboard
Christian Aid
Many thanks to all who attended the Soup Lunch, 16th May, during Christian Aid Week
.
. We had lots attending & the delicious home made soups received a lot of compliments.
We raised £940.00 with some money still to come in.
This was a remarkable amount to have raised & a testament to the generosity of our supporters in the villages.
This year the money will help fund tools & training for families to learn how to farm food wherever they live.
Thank you all for your continued support.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Kirkby & Gt. Broughton School 
To keep in touch with what's happening in school our website address is http://www.kirkbyandgreatbroughtonschool.uk.org
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Kirkby & Gt. Broughton School To keep in touch with what's happening in school the website address is http://www.kirkbyandgreatbroughtonschool.co.uk
Year 6 Residential
The main news from school is from the Year 6s who had a brilliant time on their residential & were absolute stars—a real pleasure to be around. They took part in a wide range of activities; however, they also found time to pause, think & reflect. Here are some of the Year 6 pupils' descriptions of the activities.
Bodyboarding : When we got to Cayton Bay, we unloaded the bodyboards & had a five- to ten-minute walk down to the beach where we would use them. When we reached the sand, we placed our boards on the ground so the instructors could show us the correct position. Just as we finished practising, Nikki told us to unstrap the wristbands that kept us attached to our boards and to line up. Suddenly, she shouted, “Run!” and we all ran into the cold, salty water for a temperature test. After playing in the water for a bit, we were called back to shore to get our boards and use them properly.
When I was in the water, I was riding the waves like a pro—it was so fun! I waited and waited until I saw a massive wave in the distance. It rose behind me, and I rode it like a pro.
Canoeing: Canoeing was our next activity.
We started at Ruswarp & practised before heading along the River Esk. As we travelled along the river, we spotted lots of interesting things, including a dead goat! When we reached the weir, it was blocked, so we carried our canoes across & slid down (Jill’s wellie was swept away by someone’s canoe!).Soon, we docked at “Lunch Island.”
After lunch, we set off again & saw Highland cows, a shipwreck, and hundreds of seagulls flying in beautiful formations. The instructors (Nikki & Jill) threw balls into the water, & we played a game trying to throw them into each other’s boats—we nearly tipped over trying to get one!
As we continued towards Whitby, we passed a huge viaduct, which had once been sold for £1 but costs thousands each year to maintain. We went over rapids and finally reached Whitby Bay. My boat was the first to dock, & we were part of the small percentage of people who have travelled there by boat. We travelled around two miles in total, & it was so much fun.
Beck Scrambling: The next day, we went beck scrambling in a fast-flowing river called West Beck. On the minibus, we passed Goathland Station, which was used in Harry Potter! Because the water was icy cold and deep, we wore multiple layers, including long-sleeved tops, jumpers, leggings or tracksuit bottoms, & helmets. One of the hardest parts was squeezing through long, narrow spaces.
As we entered the water, I felt shivers down my spine. The rocks were very slippery, making it more difficult. Our instructor, Tom, told us, “If the rock is green, it’s mean,” because moss makes the rocks extra slippery—this really helped us.
The most terrifying part was climbing up a tall boulder and sliding down into what felt like bottomless water. At first, I was unsure, but I pushed myself to do it. Afterwards, I found it great fun and would definitely do it again.
The Griffs: On Thursday, we challenged ourselves in the Griffs, climbing up & down muddy, V-shaped valleys.
First, we walked down a steep, green field towards the Griffs. On the way to “Lunch Island,” we found a plant with three leaves, like a clover. Paul told us it was edible—and it tasted like sour apple peel! We continued along the damp, slippery ground, spotting woodlice& beetles.
After eating our lovely lunch, we explored a shallow rocky stream where we found tiny grey shrimps. Then we continued exploring & came across a pile of bones. Shockingly, among them was a huge cow skull, as well as a sheep skull & other large bones!
Evening Activities: Each evening activity at Birch Hall was different.
On the first night, we did an alien hunt, searching for hidden aliens around the site like a treasure hunt.
On the second night, we completed the night line—a trail with obstacles such as tyres & tunnels, guided by a partner.
On the third night, we went on a night walk, following a trail and finding numbered signs marked with a blue ammonite (the East Barnby symbol). The trail took us off-site, so we went with our teachers.
On the final night, we had a campfire. We sang songs, roasted marshmallows, & played games. It was my favourite evening activity & a perfect way to end the trip.
Finally… On reflection, we all had an amazing time at Birch Hall with Mrs McCormick and Ms Ronsano. We learned how to work as a team, we built confidence, & overcame fears. Words cannot fully describe how fantastic the experience was—I will remember it for life.
Wisdom of the Woods
From the oldest children to the youngest, everyone is enjoying being outdoors.
This half term, Reception & Nursery have been exploring nature, & last week they made some amazing potions!
Summer Fair and Colour Run
We are looking forward to our annual Summer Fair & Colour Run—it promises to be a fantastic afternoon for everyone.
SIAMS (church school) inspection.
By the time you read this the school will have had our SIAMS (church school) inspection. We are sure that it will show how our children ‘shine like stars lighting up the sky’
A big thank you to everyone who has volunteered and contributed to school life this year.
Have a wonderful summer holiday and we look forward to welcoming you back in September.
.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Organist Wanted!
We need a replacement Organist at St Augustine's, starting as soon as possible. There are two, occasionally three, morning services per month; adding in the special services at Christmas, etc., this totals about 38 per year The organ is a Copeman Hart two-manual instrument; it was installed in 1998 and is one of the best in the area. There is a considerable library of both organ and choral music. We understand that a pianist of Grade 4 standard would have the right level of technical competence to be able to transition effectively to the organ.
Please contact Anne Heading for further details
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Our Eco Group Gains Bronze Award
St Augustine's is part of an initiative by the Church of England to Care for God's Earth called Eco Church. The aim is to engage Christians of all denominations with stewardship of God's creation, the earth we all share. At St Augustine's the green team have been working towards achieving the Bronze Standard through interaction with the local community especially the Primary School, increasing the biodiversity of the churchyard and encouraging involvement in green issues in the Benefice. Thanks to all who have supported us in any way as we achieved our Bronze Award on the 5th October. Many congratulations to the Eco Group on the Bronze Award!
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Church Flowers Love Flowers?
We would welcome anyone in arranging flowers once a year.
Please contact Gill Sockett 712432
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Friends of Darlington Memorial Hospital 
Stamps – Francobolli – Timbres – Sellos – Briefmarken – Stampaichean
I am still collecting used postage stamps for the Darlington Memorial Hospital voluntary drivers' expenses
Can you please save used stamps to help fund their Voluntary Car Service. Just post them through the letterbox of 46 Kirkby Lane, opposite Gt Broughton School or leave them in the Church Porch.
Also check their website for cheap postage stamps offer.
Thanks Heather Stamp
---------------------------------------------------------
Recycling at Gt Broughton Village Hall
Please use the allocated recycling bins in the entrance hall for stamps and plastic milk bottle tops (only)
Two charities are being supported by these recycling schemes:
Stamps - Parkinson’s UK
Plastic milk bottle tops - Marie Curie (Cancer Care)
Thank you, GBVH Committee
---------------------------------------------------------
The Churchyard
The Churchyard is a tranquil, peaceful and welcoming space for all who visit and we encourage the placing of floral tributes on individual graves in memory of those who are no longer with us. However, please do not use glass containers; biodegradable materials are preferable, where possible. Flowers (and their containers) should be removed when they are past their best and we are grateful to those who do this. We ensure that the grass is cut and trimmed regularly during the summer months and a small team puts a lot of effort to keep the whole area tidy and the paths clear of debris. We would only move containers if they obstruct grass cutting. Please could you ensure that any item that does not comply with these guidelines is removed. With many thanks. We are always happy to welcome volunteers to help us look after the Churchyard and keep it in good order for future generations in our parish.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Kirkby Church Hall
Is there anyone living in Kirkby or Great Broughton with a few hours to spare who would like to join the small (but very friendly) team of volunteers who run Kirkby Church Hall? This is a well appointed hall that is popular with our regular hirers and we are only able to keep the rental charges down because it is administered by volunteers. Duties would include occasional opening up or closing the hall for one-off hirers, being a key holder, helping with Christmas decorations etc. If are interested please contact Sheila (01642-71232
Kirkby Church Hall is available for hire. Contact Sheila 712321
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Church Warden Needed.
The PCC is seeking a churchwarden - if you can serve as Warden then please contact Ros Tomlinson to discuss the role Tel. 01642 711796.
-----------------------------------------
(Church) Electoral Roll
There is occasional confusion between the Civil Parish and Church Parish. The Civil parishes of Kirkby and Great Broughton are quite separate and anyone on the national Electoral Register is entitled to vote in elections for the Civil parish, in which they reside, as well as County Council and General elections. The Church Parish of Kirkby, based on St Augustine's church, however, covers all the area of Kirkby and Great Broughton civil parishes. Anyone who is baptised and resident in that area and, subject to certain conditions, living outside the area may apply to be included on the church Electoral Roll, which entitles you to vote in annual meetings of the church.
The church Electoral Roll is renewed every 6 years and everyone who was on the previous roll must apply in the same way as those wishing to be included for the first time. Of course you can apply at any time during the currency of the Roll. This is the start of a new Electoral Roll 6 year period and you will find an Application Form enclosed with March News Letter. If you wish to be included in the Church Electoral Roll please complete the Form and leave or send it as stated at the foot of the form in the newsletter.
Many thanks to our Gift Aid Secretary, Angus Sanderson for all his work for our parish
Electoral Roll Enrollment Form
Please consider joining the Electoral Roll for our parish, it gives a stake in the local Christian community and supports the wellbeing of the parish church. A person enrolled in this way may vote in our church meeting and is eligible to take on certain responsibilites such as that of Churchwarden. The criteria for joining the Roll and details of who to contact may be found in the Application Document (click on the link below.)
You are welcome to join us! Rev Dr Anne Heading, Vicar.
The Parish Newsletter for July and August 2026 has been published and can be accessed here
The Book of Psalms can be a great source of comfort and inspiration; Psalms 16 - Preserve me, O God, 23 – The Lord is my Shepherd - and 121 – I will lift up mine eyes to the hills – are commended.
The Church has a Facebook page - St Augustine’s, Kirkby & Great Broughton - which, like the website, is regularly up-dated