We are delighted that Rachel will be joining us as our Curate for the next three or four years. She will be ordained Deacon at Southwark Cathedral on Saturday 29th June and then join us for her first service on Sunday 30th June. Please pray for Rachel as she prepares for her ordination.Here is a little about Rachel:"I’m originally from Surrey where her parents and siblings still live. I’ve spent most of life in the Surrey/ London borders although I’ve been living in Bristol for two years whilst training for ordination. Before training I worked in central London for a research company and then spent a few years working for my home church in Surrey.In my spare time I enjoy meeting up with friends, knitting and trying new crafts, mooching around museums and galleries and tasting new teas. I’m excited to meet you all soon!"
It was a joy to see the church as full as we could manage with social distancing in place. There were teachers, students and school governors both from the school's past and its present. Arthur Williams, previous Headteacher and member of the congregation, has written a book to mark the occasion. With the help of a number of others linked to the school and The Streatham Society, Arthur chronicled its history and gathering many memories, stories and photographs. During the service we reflected on the purpose of school, Arthur spoke about the history of Immanuel, we watched recorded messages from the current pupils about what they liked about their school and considered the Parable of the talents and how we are encouraged to do all we can with all we have. We enjoyed one of the favourite songs of the school 'I've got peace like a river' and though we couldn't sing along everyone joined in with the actions and learned the school prayer.The service is available to watch on our Facebook Page and do get in touch if you would like to buy a copy of the book 'The story of Immanuel & St Andrew Church of England Primary School, they are £4 each.
Our new Priest-in-Charge introduces herself...Hello! My name is Sarah Simpson and I’m delighted to be joining you at Immanuel and St Andrews as Priest-in-Charge very soon. I’ve been asked to share a little bit about myself by way of introduction. My Dad is from Lancashire and my mum originates from the USA; but I was born and brought up in The Netherlands and have spent my adult life in and around London. I am married to Chris and we have three children.In my life before I became a priest, I studied philosophy, was a secondary school teacher and then spent a few years as a full-time mum. Things which are important to me are God, people and tea. My life is framed by growing in love for God as I respond to God’s love for me. I also find people and their stories fascinating. And if I can be in the presence of God, while chatting away with someone over a cup of tea – that, to me, is a truly wonderful thing!
