Dear Friends in Christ,

How are you doing with your Lenten observances? The desire to give up things such as chocolate or social media are laudable but also so easy to stray from. Or there’s the temptation to abstain and then binge when Lent is completed (or is that just me!).

But maybe we can take on new things-ways of behaviour, devoting more time to spiritual practices. Whilst our other period of preparation at Advent is one of joyous anticipation, Lent is more poignant and sober, but also a time of beauty and depth. But both conclude in times of joy.

The book we are studying for Lent (Searched me Out and Known Me by Charlie Bell) this week reminded us what we base Lent upon-Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness (note not a desert as is often thought). Jesus needed this time alone with God to discern his own identity following his baptism before he began his ministry.

So as we continue in our Lenten journey let us mirror and reflect upon this foundational moment in Jesus’ life.

This Sunday. 16th March. Lent 2

10:00am Holy Communion – St. Mary’s
10:30am Holy Communion with Hymns – All Saints

The week ahead

Monday 17th March Tiny Tots 10.30am - All Saints Community Hall
Monday 17th March Evening Lent Group 7.30pmWednesday 19th March Celtic Morning Prayer 9.00am - All Saints Church Wednesday 19th March Afternoon Lent Group 2.00am to 3.30am - St. Marys Church (note new time)Thursday 20th March. Holy Communion -10.00am. St. Marys ChurchFriday 21st March Living After Loss 11.00am to 12noon - St. Marys ChurchSaturday 22nd March Saturday Lunches 12noon to 2.00pm - St. Marys Church

Next Sunday. 23rd March. Lent 3

8.00am - Holy Communion – All Saints
10:00am - Sung Holy Communion – St Marys
10.30am - Cafe Church – All Saints

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all evermore. Amen

Blessings
Fr Kester de Oliveira