Our farewell party for Freda on the 27th October 2002 was both a sad and happy occasion. Sad because we shall lose her ministry with its cheerful friendliness, enthusiasm, hard work and dedication; happy that she will be soon starting a new ministry in her own parish.

We hope the little presents we gave her, the St. James’ shell christening vessel and the painting of our church, will be a reminder of a happy and fruitful three years with us. We have put together some memories from just a few of her friends....

“Always a welcome at her home however busy she was” (from more than one person!)
“Missing organist - Freda would play piano. Missing sound system - she made sure her voice was heard Always ready to deal positively with a problem”
“Problems, transport.. . . Freda would always be ready to help”
“Not reluctant nor slow to make amends when she trod on the occasional toe”
“Her workshops were meticulously prepared, as was every service she took”
“She had a special touch with children”
“We had fun in her workshops - and had nice sweets!”
“She seemed to cram more than 24 hours into the day”
“She made you feel she really cared about you”
“Would give me a newspaper cutting or copy which I found most helpful guidance”
“Took a special interest in people in physical need”
“We appreciated her succinct homily at the 8.00 a.m. communion”

Freda was always meticulous in her preparations for worship. She was determined that it should be the best of which she is capable - forewarned is forearmed. Every hymn was marked with a post-it note numbered 1 to 5, there was always a glass of water to hand to soothe the sermon-weary throat. Vestments were beautjfully laundered and there was never a hair out of place. As Hannah Stanton taught us, we say: “Go well!”, and she would reply: “Stay well!” Her induction as Vicar of St. Barnabas, Kingshurst, was on Thursday 19th December at 7p.m."

Source: The Spire Magazine - 2002 December