Thoughts from The Vicarage with prayers and Pews News
Greetings and please find attached Pews News for this coming week.
Care for God’s creation remains at the forefront this week as we give thanks for the Harvest at 11am in St Michael & All Angels Lambourn. Please bring your nonperishable harvest gifts ready to offer during the service. We are holding a Bring & Share Lunch in church immediately following the service – please bring a plate of food (no dips for hygiene’s sake) and any liquid refreshment you would like to enjoy with lunch. I’m told that there’s no need to bring plates and cutlery.
As we reflect upon Care for creation in its fullest sense, I am sure our hearts and minds have all been deeply shocked to observe the suffering of this last week in Southern Israel and subsequently in Gaza. “Words are insufficient to describe the horror perpetrated through acts of terror. The ensuing trauma and consequences are deeply personal and local, drawing many vulnerable people into the conflict, but are also shared internationally through our common humanity” … writes Bishop Steven.
We add our prayers to those of our Archbishops and broader faith communities for all who have been affected either directly or indirectly through the terrible violence. Amidst the profound sense of shock and loss our hearts cry out to God for comfort, security and the rebuilding of community.
Reflection often needs time to be set aside. There is a super opportunity to do just that at a Beginners’ Retreat to be held on 18–19 November at St Mary’s Convent, Wantage. Led by Sr Lizzie Ruth this retreat is for anyone who has never been on one before or who would value some extra guidance on how to use the space and time in retr eat. Find out more and book your place … If you are half thinking about this but not quite sure – please do have a word with either Christine or myself – it is an excellent opportunity.
On an Eco note – The Valley Green Weekend is upon us. There’s lots going on and all the information you need may be found on the Lambourn Valley Benefice website. I look forward to seeing you on Saturday.
Green weekend in the Lambourn valley
St Michael & All Angels will soon be saying farewell to Sandra & Brian Fletcher as they move to pastures new after over 30 years of loyal and devoted service. If you would like to contribute to a gift please pass your donation to either Amanda, Bruce or myself.
Finally, a reminder that there is a BCP Holy Communion service on Sunday at 8am which will be of a quieter and contemplative nature with prayers, spoken and unspoken for the situation in Israel, Gaza and the broader Middle East.
God bless,
Julie