The meeting was opened with our short service lead by Val, and the readings were read by Ann, who also led us in prayers for the people of the Middle East.

We were delighted to welcome our speaker, the Revd Daniel Burton, who is the vicar of St Mary’s Church Oldham, or more commonly known as Oldham Parish Church. He came to speak to us about a charity he has been involved with for many years - the charity ABCD. The initials stand for Action around Bethlehem Children with Disability.

He told us of the time he spent in and around Bethlehem before he went to university, and how the need for help with the children with disabilities was so crucial then and more so now. He also gave us an understanding of all that is currently going on in the Middle East.

The charity is non-denominational and helps as many children as possible, but of course they can only do so much. The Nur Shams Refugee Camp was established in 1952 and the camp now has 13,519 refugees registered with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency living in an area of 0.21 square kilometres. Fundraising is needed, and donations collected, to help with their work as they continue to help as many disabled children as possibly at this uncertain time.

After his talk, we were able to ask questions and discuss the problems faced, which enabled us to understand a little more of how they are still managing to work in this area and will continue to do so. 

At the end of the discussion, a vote of thanks was given by Margaret.

Our next meeting will be on November 12th; everyone is welcome!