Thoughts from The Vicarage with the coronation, hedgehogs, and volunteers
Greetings at the beginning of the Coronation Bank Holiday,
Please find attached Pews News and a reminder that this Sunday there is a single communion service in Lambourn at 10.30 and a lay led songs of praise in Eastbury both with refreshments. All, and I mean all are welcome on this Sunday following the coronation as the logo reminds us in faith, in community and in service.
Thanks to all who made last weekend so positive in all the various activities that went on in the Valley:
- The Green Valley Bank Holiday was much appreciated by all who went along to the many and varied events and what a blessing it was that the weather was kind!
- The visitors from St Mary’s Iffley were quite enthralled by their visits, their lunch(!), tea and their warm welcome. Comments were most positive on the good order of each church and how well each was ‘cared for’;
- The appreciation of the Good Shepherd Benefice service in All Saints.
Do remember to vote today, if you are so minded, taking along your photo identity for the first time in this country. It really struck me today as I left Morning Prayer and chatted to four young men at the lych gate who had no identity that many may be disenfranchised.
All the more so when I reflect upon the news from Afghanistan this week related to the Taliban refusing to allow women to be involved in aid distribution. The result is that many hospitals have very little life saving materials for the most vulnerable, especially for babies are dying needlessly. Please join in prayer for that situation.
This weekend is full of all sorts of activities and celebrations for those who wish so to do!
All the pageantry, the liturgy and music will see Westminster Abbey and London centre stage for the coronation, with Sunday being time to mark the King’s coronation in local celebrations of all sorts and Monday being the day to help out in our own local communities.
That reminds me of the fabulous Coronation Party held for the Youth Group on Tuesday – what memories were made for the 60+ children with a special tea, their own bunting and much much more … even Christina’s therapy dog Teazle got to sit on the throne for a photo!! Just one example of the way in which so many volunteer across the Valley … there’s always room for more of course. Do be in touch with me if you’d like to know more – and it’s not all about Youth (!) – but it is great fun to volunteer, to be part of a team and to belong!
In other news … the hedgehogs are back in the garden with Mr Vicarage being kept busy with them as well as our vicarage ducks!!!
Following the news of St Michael & All Angels flagpole having broken I have just heard stop press news of another break. This time in the Thames Water sewage system so it’s likely that the pumping station on the way to Eastbury will be turned off again …
Finally, in amongst the busy-ness of my life in schools I used to find this Japanese version of the 23rd Psalm written by Toki Miyashina a gentle reminder of the presence of God and the place of stillness … it may be of help as this historical weekend approaches.
The Lord is my Pace-setter, I shall not rush;
He makes me stop and rest for quiet intervals.
He provides me with images of stillness,
which restore my serenity.
He leads me in ways of efficiency
through calmness of mind,
and His guidance is peace.
Even though I have a great many things
to accomplish each day,
I will not fret, for His presence is here;
His timelessness, His all importance,
will keep me in balance.
He prepares refreshment and renewal
in midst of my activity,
By anointing my mind with His oils of tranquility.
My cup of joyous energy overflows,
surely harmony and effectiveness
shall be the fruits of my hours,
for I shall walk, in the pace of my Lord
and dwell in His house forever.
Whatever you are doing over the next few days,
Warmest wishes and God bless
Julie