Welcome to the third Churchwardens’ Corner. As we write this, in mid-November, it seems incredible that we are fast approaching winter and Christmas. They say time flies, well it certainly has this year!
So, what’s been happening?
On the evening of 23rd September, many of the congregation made the trip to the Wychwood Benefice to attend Sarah’s Service of Collation. It has to be said that the weather that evening was atrocious, with torrential rain making driving interesting. However, undeterred, we made the journey in several cars and a coach to witness Sarah taking up her new role. The service has both religious and legal elements. We don’t have the space to go into details but to give you an idea of its importance, The Deputy Lieutenant attended as the King’s representative.
Obviously, this means that our parish now has no vicar and we must find a suitable replacement. As mentioned in previous articles, this is a very involved process with both religious and legal implications and despite its complexity we only have six months to complete it. Therefore, to give all those concerned some extra time to complete the various tasks, the interregnum (vacancy) will not start until 23rd November 2024.
If you receive this magazine through your door you live in the parish of Bodicote. Therefore, we’d like to ask you a question, namely, What type of vicar would you like? On page 9 in this magazine you will find a form you can complete to let us know your thoughts, nothing rude though! J
The church continues to work with the local schools, Bishop Loveday, The Grange and Longford Park. All three schools have arranged to have services in the church in November and December. Bishop Loveday School held a very successful Harvest Festival at the end of October, filling the church in three separate sessions with pupils, staff and parents. The children were brilliant and even the parents were well behaved! All the food contributed was donated to the Lunch Box Project.
On 10th November, The Royal British Legion held their Service of Remembrance in church. It was well attended by the local community including serving service personnel, veterans and young people from various organisations. On the 11th November at 11:00am there was a small service at the War Memorial to observe the 2-minute silence and remember the fallen. Visiting clergy conducted the services and a lone bugler sounded the Last Post and Reveille.
We continue to hold various social activities including Afternoon Tea, Bingo, Quiz Nights etc. Further details can be found in this magazine.
It goes without saying that none of the above could go ahead but for the congregation, PCC and the visiting clergy. The help and support they all provide is quite simply amazing, THANK YOU!
Lynne Philpot and Rob Kirk