'Pancakes, Presentation and Praise' on Shrove Tuesday proved to be a great success. A large crowd of people, old and young, came to Pembroke Town Hall to enjoy pancakes and other refreshments, witness the presentation of £7,000 to Christian charity Open Doors, and listen to the band while joining in with the lively praise songs.
While people got to know each other, pancakes were served from the hatch by ladies from Hesed Christian Fellowship, Tenby, complete with a variety of toppings.
Rev. Peter Richmond gave a welcome and mentioned the plight of one woman in Eritrea imprisoned for her faith. By the end of the evening over 30 petitions were signed for her release.
Recently retired national director of Open Doors, Allan Hall, received the cheque for £7,000 raised by Hesed Fellowship, Emmanuel Gospel Church, Manorbier and many others.
Allan talked about his work bringing the Gospel to forgotten parts of Russia and how he had seen churches of thousands grow from tiny beginnings. His association with the charity had begun in Pembroke and he was delighted to witness how it was continuing.
During the praise time that followed, keyboardist Patrick Ovenden talked about Corrie Ten Boom, the Dutch watchmaker's daughter whose safe house had saved hundreds of Jews from Nazi tyranny.
Musicians from Tenby and Manorbier were joined by the music group from Bethel Church, Carmarthen. Singers Debbie and Jemma were greatly admired for their vocal abilities, accompanied by keyboard, electric piano, three guitars, flute and saxophone. The line-up included the drummer from local band Big Apple Credits, who have just released their first EP.
The event was free and was not intended to be fund-raising, but at the end of the evening offerings in the plate amounted to £85.76, which was given to representatives Clyde and Jan Briggs on behalf of Open Doors.
Hesed would like to express their thanks to all who took part in raising the £7,000 and all who helped make the evening such a success.