FROM THE RECTORY - STILL LEARNING This morning’s traffic is lighter than normal for a Monday, was the repeated message on the radio as I made my way along the A14. It was the morning after England had faced Spain in Berlin. The assumption was that many had planned a late start to accommodate the celebration or commiseration appropriate to the result. Time now for commiseration? In football, as in most competitive sports, there can only be one winner. Spain 2: England 1 is a clear statement of victory and defeat, but the all or nothing nature of competition masks much more of value. On the same Monday morning drive, I heard an American commentator observe how many celebrated moments in our history (such as 1066 and Dunkirk) are defeats. He observed, too, on how the recent landslide election victory which has led to our new government, was an equally massive defeat for the previous government, yet the transition from one party to another has been smooth, good manners, peaceful. His point, I think, was that learning how to lose, how to handle disappointment and loss, and come back stronger is an important skill. For all the inevitable disappointments of defeat, there is much to be gained; much to be won. I am not a football fan. The Euro semi-final was the only complete football match I have watched in years. Nevertheless, I understand that commentator after commentator has remarked how much the national team has improved and how so much of that improvement boils down to team spirit, a team spirit fostered by the manager. The team may not have lifted the trophy but they performed to the best of their collective ability, an ability that far exceeds what the team might have been capable of a decade ago. On Good Friday, Jesus’ followers and foes alike saw only his defeat. His resurrection signalled victory, but not in the way they had expected it. In the years that lay ahead they were to learn a new, living way. Today he still teaches his followers. The question is are we, his followers, still learning? Rev’d Philip 21 Jul 24
Earl Stonham church is open every day from 10-4 and on Sundays from 12-4pm (to allow for services), and the churchyard remain accessible, though of course subject to government rules.You should not come to the church if you or anyone in your household has or may have had Covid or been in contact with anyone who has, have tested positive or are required to self-isolate.To us it is a very special place to worship where everyone is always welcome to visit, just to sit for a moment or to explore further.Do come and see our “very fine” (Betjeman), “one of the finest in Suffolk” (Jenkins), “beautiful, amazing, wonderful” (me) carved hammerbeam roof and look up at the angels. “Much of interest inside” (B), a “virtuoso display of Suffolk woodwork” (J).
Do join us in worshipping via Zoom each Sunday at 09:30. and other times during the week.To join, please email northbosmerebenefice@gmail.comStay safe in these still challenging times, follow government advice and look after one another. Love your neighbour.
Parish Safeguarding Officer Mrs Frankie Wicks 01449 711222Priest in Charge Revd Philip Payne 01449 711684http://www.cofesuffolk.org/concerns-and-contacts
