Thoughts from The Vicarage with free bibles, scaffolding and retreats
Greetings on this rather damp morning giving thanks for the watering of the earth.
This Sunday is Pentecost when we remember the disciples praying for the Holy Spirit to come amongst them. The spirit which moved over the face of the waters bringing light and life to all creation. Please find attached Pews News for days, times and venues for services this weekend and next week.
Living Well in The End Times begins this coming Wednesday June 11th at The Vicarage 3-4.30. It’s open to all, so please do feel free to ask about bringing a spouse or a friend.
Free Bibles are in church on the table by the door please take one either for yourself or a friend.
Chancel painting in St Michael’s – just a heads up that this begins this month with scaffolding being put up this coming week. Thanks to Ruth for getting this under way.
In need of a retreat, a time apart, a time to take stock, reflect or simply pray? The Convent of St Mary The Virgin in Wantage is hosting a number of retreats from July through to November – with one being Saturday 15th – Sunday 16th November 2025. This short retreat is for anyone who is new to being in retreat. It is also for anyone new to staying at St Mary’s Convent or anyone who would value guidance on how to use their time in retreat with Sister Lizzie Ruth CSMV. For more info https://rb.gy/tc8wrh
The Food Banks are in need once again. For the 10th consecutive year, West Berks Foodbank is addressing this issue with the Hungry Holidays project. 87 Schools in West Berkshire, primary and secondary, have been contacted and asked to identify families that they know are going to be struggling over the summer holidays. So far 46 schools have replied so we will be providing support to at least 478 households with 1026 under 18 years. The food will be sent to the schools, who will distribute it before the end of term. This is a major undertaking and we really need your support to make it successful. Please donate generously either using the green boxes in the churches or to the local foodbank.
Help still needed for setting up and tidying away after services in St Michael’s – a crib sheet and help is readily available – have a chat with either Ruth or Keith to know more. The crib sheet is in church for you to have a sneak peak!
And finally a reminder that the St Michael’s prayer table is there for your private prayers – please feel free to add your own. If you wish someone to be on the Pews News list, simply let me know.
A prayer for the coming week from today’s Morning Prayer as we look ahead to Pentecost:
May your Holy Spirit come, O God,
with deliverance for the needy,
with peace for the righteous,
with overflowing blessing for all nations,
with glory, honour and praise
for Christ, the only Saviour. Amen
God bless
Julie