Thoughts from The Vicarage with VE Day St Michael’s, Taize and international links
Greetings on this glorious blue sky day – a little earlier than usual as we prepare for VE Day itself, Thursday May 8th in St Michael & All Angels church with a traditional service of hymns, prayers and a commitment to peace at 5.30 pm. Our service will reflect that 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. As we honour the past, so we renew our commitment to building a more peaceful and just world for all. All, and I mean all, are welcome – come as a family!
Please find attached Pews News for days, times and venues for services this weekend, along with the coming week.
Taizé is areligious community of brothers which since the end of the Second World War has been welcoming young people to stay and to share their simple life and explore life’s meaning. There is a 2025 Pilgrimage to Taizé Aug 16th – Aug 24th. Taizé in France is a place where the peaceful life of prayer meets the energy of a huge youth camp. Young adults from across the world and from different Christian backgrounds, come together for a unique experience of faith, openness and connection. Whether you’re seeking space to encounter God, new connections, or a break from the noise of daily life, Taizé offers a mix of freedom, reflection and a real sense of community. Anyone from 15 – 35 is invited to experience this pilgrimage alongside Bishop Mary! Find out more either here: https://oxford.anglican.org/taize , ask me or look at the poster attached in church!
A reminder about our Oxford Diocese international links being celebrated in a gathering on Saturday 17 May, 10am – 3pm ‘Seeking the kingdom alongside our global partners’ at St John & St Stephen’s Church Reading. Poster attached. Our Bishop, Mary will be with us and there will be lunch of sandwiches and dishes from each country – no charge at all!
The PCC of All Saints East Garston is most grateful for all who have supported the Church Tower fund raising so far. There is still a way to go to ensure that the tower remains in good repair so that we may continue to hear the bells ring out across the Village bearing news as they did 80 years ago. Thanks to Emma Stone and Lise Cox, the monthly Tower and Bell Draw is being continued. Please see the attached flier. In essence you pledge to pay for 12 months for the privilege of joining in and having a good chance of winning a cash prize!
And finally private prayers requested on St Michael’s prayer table are included at daily morning prayer. They have been carefully placed on the altar in the Lady Chapel.
A prayer for the coming week
O Lord our God,
as we remember, teach us the ways of peace.
As we treasure memories, teach us to hope.
As we give thanks for the sacrifices of the past, help us to make your future in this world,
until your kingdom come.
Amen
Every blessing
Julie