BryanDicker wrote:My posts will indicate that I have not been on the forums everyday. However, I have moved away from the area, much to the disgust of a couple of "contributers". ( I would, however, point out I visit Gants Hill regularly as my mother and sister still lives there). I have a long history with St Augustines, and admittedly, had only a few dealings with the Priest in question. The last being the death of my father. He was good with us all (the family).
I would also point out that when I went to the church to get him for my father's last rites, the congregation at the rear of the church spoke highly of the priest. No one can please everybody.
My point is, and I am not giving back word, that too much negatives are being putforward. The priest is not all bad. It is a shame the original Parish Hall has been closed, and I agree that it was a good venue, however, the arguments I have heard is that an alternative venue has been built - on the school premisis. Yes, I have been in it during my volunteer work.
THe comments about the mosaic - My view is that it had looked dull for years, since I was a child, amd now it looks as though it is being cared for.
If I havent responded quickly - please send a polite PM as sometimes the thread is missed.
There is absolutely no "disgust" at you moving away from the area, we live a country where freedom of movement is allowed.
What we need to know is that anyone placing comments on any thread knows what they are talking about.
Hence the fact that you have moved away means that your comments on such matters should be weighted accordingly. What we really need to know is how frequently you visit the area/church?
I also believe that no one is "all bad" and that most people have some good points.
Once again I must take issue with you about the "alternative venue" if as you say you have been in there, you will know that it was built for the youth and handicapped of the parish and area. It is not suitable for any other use. In fact the priest will not hire the hall out for social functions. However he does allow certain groups (that are not associated with the Catholic Church) to use that hall!
I am involved with one of the youth based groups that are allowed (at present) to use the hall, hence I visit it weekly, so I think I know what I'm talking about, however I will let the users of this forum be the judge of that!
With regard the mosaic I will stick to my opinion that the money could have been better spent, it may look "nice" but how many people has it stopped from starving?
