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From the 12th September the church will open
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Dear all
It was so wonderful to see so many of you at the various services last Sunday for our Patronal Festival and at the picnic in between. We are so very grateful to people of all ages who took part, reading, singing, leading intercessions, welcoming, setting up and clearing away the picnic, bringing wonderful contributions of food, serving drinks and generally helping us to celebrate our dedication to the Blessed Virgin Mary. We loved being with you all in the church and in the garden. At the same time, we are so very appreciative of those who have stepped up to welcome the Afghan refugees in this area with generous donations of clothing and essential items and many hours spent sorting and transporting donations and offering practical help and assistance. Fr Christopher has been deeply touched by the overwhelming number of people who have offered help, from the whole St Mary Abbots community, across both church and school. He has asked me to say that as the statutory authorities take on various areas of organization and activity, the urgent need to welcome the refugees is lessening for the time being, but he would like to hold on to the names of all volunteers so as to call on you in due course if he may, particularly once we have established provision for the children in collaboration with other churches. Please do also support the Glass Door sleepout for the homeless on October 1st – either sleeping out or sponsoring one of our intrepid team! It has been a joy to welcome people back to our midweek services, with the return of Sunday on Monday and the Healing Eucharist this week – please remember that all our weekday Eucharists are now at 12 noon with the exception of Thursdays, when you are warmly invited to join the School Eucharist at 9.30 am. This Sunday sees the return of the Taizé Eucharist in addition to our regular services on Sunday morning – again, please note change of time to 5.30 pm - and we hope to see you there! Last, but absolutely not least, I am delighted to announce a new (but at the same time familiar!) face on our staff team. Most of you will know Martina, who has been a parishioner and volunteer at SMA for many years, and has been working a few hours a week as our Children’s Work Administrator for the past year. We are thrilled that she has now taken on a full-time role combining the role of Children’s Worker with that of Assistant Virger, working alongside Simon. She has already leapt into action and will bring her particular gifts of practical energy, warmth and faith to our community in a new way! In the face of Jesus Christ your light and glory have blazed forth, O God of all the nations; with all your people, may we make known your grace and walk in the ways of peace; for your name’s sake. Amen. [Response to Psalm 67, Common Worship Daily Prayer] With my love and prayers Mother Emma 16th September 2021 |
Virtual Donation Plate
If you would like to make a donation during our services, or at any time, we have set up an online virtual collection plate below. Click here for this week's Newsletter
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