Staff and pupils from Woolpit School came to St Mary’s for a Harvest Service on 4th October 2024. Over 80 parents and friends attended the service. Each class in the school played a part either in singing, reading their poems or showing their art work. All of it a wonderful testament to God’s generous gifts in creation

Reverend Ruth Farrell officially retired as rector of the Woolpit and Drinkstone Benefice on July 20 following many years in her role. 

Retirement parties and gifts were arranged to thank her for all she has done for her congregations since she was made rector in 2007. 

And on August 5, Revd Ruth was gifted a special and prestigious certificate of Long and Exemplary Dedicated Service.

The certificate, which came as a complete surprise to the reverend and is rarely handed out, was from the Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich as an “acknowledgement of her faithful service to the diocese and benefice”.

The certificate reads: “In thanksgiving for many years of dedicated service to the life of the Church of England in Suffolk.” 

It is signed by Martin Seeley, Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich. 

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant,” it reads.