It was a great joy that, after an absence of a few years thanks to COVID restrictions, so many turned out to join the Remembrance Day ceremonies and service. First a good crowd, including many representing uniformed organisations, youth groups and the school gathered in silence round the War Memorial. There, in an act of worship led by Revd Jenny Hill, the Last Post was sounded, the names of the fallen were read and wreaths were laid.Immediately afterwards, many moved into St Mary and All Saints Church for an all-age service that mixed tradition with some more modern touches. Younger children were catered for with appropriate craft activities in the Octagon during the address, organised by those who lead the regular Acorns and Oaks children's church. They returned at the end of the more formal service to lead a contemporary song that they had learned in school, called "We will Remember". It was very special when the adults in the congregation joined in too. The National Anthem was sung, people having to remember to sing "King" and no longer "Queen" and standards were carried and presented.Canon Jan Payne (Licensed Lay Minister) gave an address based on the theme of remembering and talked about some of the people behind the names that had been read out at the War Memorial, and the individual and family sacrifices that had been made. At the end refreshments were served before people made their way home. Our thanks to everyone who joined us for these services, not least the many young people in uniforms, their leaders and the school representatives.
On Saturday, 5 November we held a sale of cakes, pastries, preserves and plants. Despite the wet morning, there was a steady flow of shoppers who eagerly snapped up the homemade goodies and plants. A significant sum of money was raised to help with the refurbishment of chairs in the church building. We are very grateful to all who came and purchased items. The next sale will be on Saturday, 3 December 2022 at 10.00 am. More details coming soon.
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On Sunday 9 October, Harvest Festival took place in the church. The flower arrangers, under Carol's direction, had produced imaginative and eye-catching displays. In the morning service, a generous donation of goods for the Foodbank were presented by members of the congregation of all ages. There were significant contributions from different generations of the congregation too as we gave thanks to God for the Harvest, including some lively singing from the Sunday School and prayers led by members of our new youth programme. In her sermon, Canon Jan Payne reminded the congregation of the need to take seriously the challenges of climate change if we are to be able to sustain the environment needed here and across the world to keep ourselves fed, keep animals alive and safe and, ultimately, people too. Traditional Harvest hymns were sung alongside more contemporary worship songs. After the service, people moved into the Octagon Hall where a rich array of soups, bread and cakes were presented and much enjoyed by those who had been able to attend. Thanks are due to everyone who took part in the weekend in whatever context.
