Change is a fact of life. Indeed, throughout our lives we experience all sorts of changes: sometimes dreams are realised, sometimes dreams are shattered; sometimes change is anticipated and hoped for, sometimes change is inevitable or disappointing. Some changes bring us joy, some bring us sorrow.As I sit writing this letter, I am contemplating a sermon based on Jesus calming a storm (Mark 4:35 if you would like to read it). Jesus commands the wind and the sea to be still, and tells his frightened disciples not to be afraid. Even when the situation appears bleak, we can find reassurance and peace in Jesus: if we trust in him, we can weather any storm, any change – great or small.Our churches in the Mid-Trent Benefice have started to consider the changes that will be needed before a new parish priest can be appointed. This is likely to involve re-organisation of the team, new ways of church communities working and worshiping together more closely, thinking afresh about the way our ten church buildings are used and managed in the future. Some of these changes might seem obvious, some radical; some might bring joy, others might seem sad, but through prayer and careful discernment, I am confident that God will cause the right seeds to grow, that Jesus will offer reassurance and peace, and that the Holy Spirit will guide our church leaders towards a bold future, focused on sharing the Good News of Jesus, and loving and serving our village communities.Our ‘Compass’ magazine has been through exciting changes recently. You will see that we are appealing for donations to support its continued publication and distribution (with increasing costs, but delivered free of charge to every home): please do consider contributing if you are able.Change is coming for me, too. By the time this copy of ‘Compass’ finds itself in your recycling bin, Malcolm and I will have moved to our new parish, St John the Evangelist in Perry Barr. Change can be both daunting and exciting; moving to a new post, a new home, and a new community can be both sad and joyful. I have enjoyed my time serving as curate in Mid-Trent Churches greatly, building relationships, developing ideas, and serving and worshiping alongside many of you. It has been a wonderful privilege for which I am truly grateful. I pray that you will all continue to grow and flourish in mutual respect, love and service for one another in the years ahead. And, if you are someone who prays, please pray for me as I embark on the next chapter of my ministry in Birmingham. May God bless you, and all those you love. Amen.With every blessing, Danny
Stowe-by-Chartley Parish Council.Lots of prizes to be won!For a free supply of straw help or advice and to register your scarecrow for judging please email: cllrjharnett@stowe-by-chartley-pc.gov.uk
The telephone box (now a book exchange ) is red again! The decaying frame around the parish map situated on the village hall car park is now repaired and looks very smart. The village hall has a brand new notice board and the two other existing notice boards by the church have had a makeover. The village Hall committee met for a hall and car park cleaning day. It’s made a huge difference! Some of you may also have noticed Nora Jeffers art work - her garden gate painted after the style of Monet. Nora's contribution to our village is very much appreciated. The Plant your own Hanging Basket event was a great success. More than forty baskets were filled with plants and taken to homes across the whole parish. Thank you to everyone who has and continues to make our village a great place to live. Fingers crossed the judges are impressed!
Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.The Compass magazine goes to the 2,500 homes within the eight parishes of Mid-Trent. It’s full of church news, community events and supported by many local business who advertise in it.We have an annual appeal from the community, to help with the running costs of producing the magazine. Each months copy costs £1,000 to produce. Just Giving makes it as simple as possible for you to donate something to support its continued production by either scanning the attached QR code or clicking on: Mid Trent Churches Compass is fundraising for Lichfield Diocesan Trust (justgiving.com)If you are not comfortable giving on line, you can still pass on a donation to your distributor or drop it into the church.Please help us to support the community with a magazine for the local community and local businesses.Thanks for your donationDonating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.
