Thoughts from The Vicarage with VE Day 80 years, a collect for peace, international links and a Tower in need
Greetings on this beautiful, sunny May 1st morning! Please find attached Pews News for days, times and venues for services this weekend, during the week and beyond.
Most notable, on Thursday May 8th 5.30 in St Michael’s Lambourn there will be a traditional service marking in hymns, prayers and remembrance VE Day 80 years on with the British Legion followed by bells. The 80th anniversary of VE Day is a moment of profound significance for our nation. It is a time to remember with deep gratitude the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today. The Archbishop of York writes “In an increasingly dangerous world, I encourage all our churches to participate in these commemorations, to ring their bells, to offer prayers for peace, and to provide spaces for their communities to come together in remembrance. As we honour the past, so we renew our commitment to building a more peaceful and just world for all.”
Keeping with the international theme – the diocese of Oxford has international links, you may have seen them on the prayer list from time to time. These links are being celebrated in a gathering on Saturday 17 May, 10am – 3pm Seeking the kingdom alongside our global partners St John & St Stephen’s Church Reading. Poster attached. Come along and join with partners from India, Jamaica, South Africa and Sweden as together we reflect on ways to live as disciples of Jesus. I have a couple of car spaces left if you would like to come along with me – just give me a call or text.
Whether your passion is for sharing the gospel, nourishing young people’s faith, serving our communities, seeking justice, or caring for creation, there will be opportunities for learning and conversation. • worship • speakers • workshops • information on links/mission agency partners • lunch of sandwiches and dishes from each country
Easter Sunday was a glorious celebration in each of our valley churches! A special thanks to all those who prepared our churches and dressed them so splendidly for Easter Day and throughout Easter week.
Last Sunday was Mystery Worshipper Sunday when we encouraged you to visit Sunday worship in another church. Myself and Christine look forward to listening to your thoughts!
The APCM of St Michael & All Angels is on Wednesday May 7th at 6pm in church beginning with the Vestry meeting at which churchwardens are elected. If you are interested in becoming a PCC member and have been on the Electoral Roll for at least 6 months, please speak to Ruth or Keith as soon as possible and complete a nomination form to be found in church. PCC meetings are held roughly 6 times a year.
Please consider whether you are called to stand, and pray for the life and work of the PCC, its effectiveness, commitment and openness to the guidance of God. Tea and coffee will be served just prior to the start of the meeting.
The APCM of All Saints East Garston is on May 12th at 6.30pm at The Friends Meeting House and similarly we ask that you consider whether you are called to stand.
And finally A Collect for Peace
O God, who art the author of peace and lover of concord,
in knowledge of whom standeth our eternal life,
whose service is perfect freedom:
Defend us, thy humble servants,
in all assaults of our enemies;
that we, surely trusting in thy defence,
may not fear the power of any adversaries;
through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Julie