Latest newsletter from Linda, the Rector

Gardens Open poster 2024.pdf Download
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Hello Everyone

Despite the early rains today, it has been a lovely day. People have been out and about visiting the Open Gardens in Toddington, popping into Wilkinson Hall for a cuppa and a chat whilst checking out the plant stall, the delicious cakes and the tombola. Thank you to everyone who opened their gardens this year. I love the inspiration and couldn't resist a quick half hour in our garden, when I got home, to clear space for some new planting.

It has been a busy week nationally with so much going on. After Thursday's General Election, the country moved swiftly forward the next morning into a new phase. As one former Prime Minister left a newly appointed one clicked swiftly into action. What a difference a day makes!

On Thursday evening Andy Murray played what has now turned out to be his final match at Wimbledon with his brother Jamie. What an inspiration his drive and determination has been over the years and he has thrilled so many of us on the journey. The BBC offered a very moving wonderful tribute to him on Thursday which was well deserved. Sadly today, he learned that he would not be playing a much anticipated mixed doubles match. What a difference a day makes!

This evening, England footballers played their way through to a semi-final match, showing steely determination and skill in a penalty shoot-out. What a difference a match makes!

Each of the above experiences example people making best use of their gifts and talents - honed, determined and focused. What an inspiration.

Jesus was focused and determined. His was a life of self-less service, of dedication and of care. He taught us to push at the boundaries, to try harder, and to think outside the box for the good of others. What a difference he made to so many lives. I have just been reading an article in Premier Christianity with Sir Keir Starmer who spoke about the invaluable knowledge and experience which church communities have to offer and how important a role we have to work together. May Jesus continue to inspire and lead us each day. May we, as followers of Jesus be honed, determined and focused so that we too can make a difference!

Sunday's Services 7th July

9.30 am Holy Communion, Chalgrave church

11.00 am Holy Communion with a baptism, Toddington church

Events:

Sunday afternoon 7th July - Open Gardens 1.00 pm - 6.00 pm Programmes, Refreshments, plant stall and tombola, at Wilkinson Hall (see poster)

Mon 8th July - Morning Prayer 9.30am Toddington Church

Mon 8th July - Seated Pilates 2.00 pm – 3.00 pm Wilkinson Hall

Thurs 11th July - Afternoon with Friends 2.00 pm – 4.00 pm Wilkinson Hall

Thurs 11th July - Post-Alpha gathering 7.00 pm The Rectory

Fri 12th July - Painting for Pleasure 10.30 am – 12.30 pm Wilkinson Hall

Fri 12th July - Funeral of Ryan Cremin 12.30 pm Toddington Church

Sat 13th July - Coffee Morning 10.00 am – 12.00 noon Wilkinson Hall

See attached poster for What's On events during July at both Chalgrave and Toddington Churches.

Have a good week.

Best wishes

Linda

Rector

Toddington and Chalgrave

07715 603557