Burwell’s special anniversary draws community  

More than 100 people across the Cambridgeshire village participated in a successful community open day at Burwell Baptist Church, an event which featured a free barbecue, an anniversary cake cut by the local MP – and even a specially produced non-alcoholic drink called Burwell Baptist Brew. By Peter Wells
 

The community open day on 9 May was held as one of a series of events throughout the year to commemorate the church’s 175th anniversary. 
 
There was a free barbecue and various activities and displays by local groups who regularly use the church premises.  
 
The Art Group which meets on Thursday afternoons put on an impressive exhibition of paintings. There was a beautiful display of stuffed felt animals made by the WI Craft Group.

The special anniversary celebration cake was ceremonially cut by our MP Charlotte Cane (pictured). 
 
The Burwell Singers performed two sets of songs to an appreciative audience, and Professor John Morrill gave an interesting and informative talk on the local history of Burwell and the village churches.  
 
Other contributions in gazebos in the churchyard included the Trefoil Guild, Burwell Museum, Newmarket Youth for Christ, Artistry in Cocoa (a chocolatier), a WI cake stall and a representative of the East Anglia Ambulance Service First Responders with a demonstration of CPR.

There was also a treasure hunt for the children.

The Burwell Brewery produced a unique sparkling hop water non-alcoholic drink called Burwell Baptist Brew, which was very refreshing with ice and a slice of lemon on a hot day!




In the lounge a rolling display showing a very interesting visual history of the church was playing continuously throughout the proceedings.

As part of the commemorations a video has been professionally produced by The Fuelcast (and see below) with members of the church congregation sharing their experiences and faith journeys. A compilation of these was shown during the afternoon.

All in all the celebration was a great success and was enjoyed by over 100 members of the church, friends and visitors. 
 
Later in the year, on Sunday 18 October there will be a special Anniversary Thanksgiving Service.
 
 
 
Image | Charlotte Cane MP cutting the church’s celebration cake, with minister the Revd Chris Johnson looking on

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Peter Wells is the secretary of Burwell Baptist Church