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Over 50 people in a multitude of hats gathered for the East Vale churches’ ‘Walking Talking Natter Hatter Tea Party’ on Sunday 16th July. The party walked to and celebrated the Lanlay Community Orchard with Bishop Mary who blessed the orchard with prayers (and the aid of a large water pistol!) before heading back to Peterston Church and Community Hall for tea, cake and crafts.The idea for the afternoon sprang from the annual Mad Hatter’s Tea Party that ran at St George’s Church before it closed, and throughout the walk, Bishop Mary and leaders wove in storytelling about journeys and ‘hats’ represented in the Biblical story.Vicar in the East Vale MA Rachel Petley said, “My personal highlights were seeing new families who don’t normally attend our churches welcomed and enjoying their time with us and seeing the wonderful way in which church members from across the Ministry Area pulled together to create such a fun and inspiring event.” The orchard was beautiful and the love of those who had created it was palpable.The East Vale Ministry Area was supported by the Diocesan Growth Enablers team, offering advice and practical support both beforehand and on the day. The afternoon tea laid out was supremely well-organised and delicious, and so many people contributed to making it the great afternoon that it was.Rachel said, “We have had wonderful feedback from those who attended (including Bishop Mary!), and huge thanks are due to all who helped both on the day and beforehand.”If you have ideas for future events or want to be involved with the East Vale Ministry Area, please talk to Rachel – it would be fantastic to build up a team who can work together on this. rachel.petley21@stpadarns.ac.uk