Dear All
We continue to move through Eastertide, rejoicing in the Resurrection, but at the same time praying constantly for peace and reconciliation across God’s broken world today, and thinking of all those living in places of war and destruction. We hope to welcome you again to one of our services this Sunday – a reminder that this week we have our Taizé Eucharist at 5.30 pm, a quiet, reflective service at which we sing the beautiful chants of the Taizé community, with the opportunity to receive communion at this later time of day. There is no sermon at this service, but you are invited to come up and light candles for those people, places and situations on your hearts at present, in a peaceful and prayerful atmosphere. The clergy and some of the staff team this week attended the first in a series of meetings with other churches from our Deanery on growing the church in faith and community, and we look forward to sharing with you and asking for your thoughts on the helpful insights which our discussions bring. We would also very much welcome your input and participation as we work together as a parish to develop different aspects of our life together and to raise up people who would like to take on new areas of responsibility within the different ministries of the church. The Grow course has helped many churches to identify ways in which they can draw others to the love of Christ and strengthen and encourage the faith of their church communities. One of the first ways we can do this is by developing still further the wonderful work Martina is doing to support our parents in sowing the seeds of faith and Christian practice amongst our children and young people. As I think Fr Evan has already mentioned, if you would like to be more involved with our children’s work, please do contact Martina or one of the clergy to hear more about all the different children’s activities available and how you could contribute. As we wonder if we are seeing the first glimpses of summer(?), Leonora is now looking ahead positively to the Summer Garden Party in the Vicarage Garden on Saturday 8th June, sponsored by Knight Frank. She asks if anyone might consider donating an exciting prize for the raffle which will be drawn that day. If this is something you could contribute to our community, please could you get in contact Leonora here. Almighty God, by your Holy Spirit you have made us one with your saints in heaven and on earth; grant that in our earthly pilgrimage we may even be supported by this fellowship of love and prayer and know ourselves surrounded by their witness, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen [Common Worship Times and Seasons: Mission] With my love and prayers, as always Mother Emma 18th April 2024 |
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