Thank you to everyone who was able to join in with the 70th anniversary commemoration of the 1952 Flood. It was very special to meet those who had returned to and to share the evening with those who had lived through those times. West Country ITV interviewed a number of participants and I was deeply moved by all that they shared and grateful for the chance to listen. Media interest continues and I will be talking to the presenter of BBC Radio Devon's Sunday breakfast programme at about 7.30 am tomorrow morning about the privilege of sharing in the commemoration amongst those who have rebuilt and restored community life here too.

The 18th August saw the welcome return of Kate Robey and Thomas Cameron to St Mary's Lynton for a concert on the tour that is taking them to Edinburgh this week. It was good to be able to gather again simply to enjoy an afternoon of music after the postponement of the last couple of years. Many people commented that they have a new appreciation of much we took for granted before the pandemic.

Looking into the coming week, August 24th is the day Ukrainians keep as Independence Day. I think it is a good time for us renew our prayers for peace in that region and to pray for all those who, this year will be praying for their homeland from afar. In this week's gospel Jesus reveals God's liberating power in the life of a woman who has been bent low. Some react with criticism, others rejoice with her and for her. Life is challenging for so many at the moment. May we be open to God's liberating grace in our own lives, be willing to walk with others sympathetically, and be amongst those who rejoice at others' joy too.

God bless

Samantha

In my sermon I refer to this being a passage which is good as a starting point to explore imaginative contemplation. A good guided imaginative contemplation with this passage by Stephen Hoyland ,an experienced Ignatian retreat director, can be found here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTyoBg6aO9I