Thoughts from The Vicarage with thanks & encounters with the risen Christ
Continued Easter greetings to you and yours following our return from post Easter leave. Thoughts is a little brief this week but will be back to full fat next week! Keith and I had a wonderful break on the landing beaches of la belle France. Thanks to all who took the helm whilst we were away.
Thank you to all those whose dedication and commitment was beautifully reflected in each of our churches over Easter. For the bells ringing, the flowers, the Easter gardens, the dressing of our churches – not to mention the flag flying from St Michael’s. ‘Christ is Risen – He is risen indeed Alleluia’
It was a joy to see so many children in church and in St Michael’s there were a vast number of acolytes (helpers at the altar) all queuing up to ‘help’ prepare the sacred vessels and elements! Thank you to all who contributed to such lively vibrant worship on Easter Day!
This coming Sunday, encounters with the risen Christ continue as we journey with two disciples along the road to Emmaus with the most poignant, touching words of Luke’s gospel ‘we had hoped He was the one…..’ only to discover that He, Jesus was with them even when they didn’t notice. I wonder do we notice Jesus, where do we notice him, in whom do we notice him and why do we sometimes miss him …. like those two disciples so did?
The Annual Parish Meeting season is upon us. Often known as APCMs they are meetings when anyone on the electoral roll of the parish is invited to attend. St James has already held their APCM. The meeting sees the election of church wardens, Deanery Synod reps and PCC members. All Saints APCM is on May 11th at 7pm. St Michael’s APCM is on May 24th following the Sunday service.
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.
And finally a timely prayer from the Great Litany;
That it may please thee to make wars to cease in all the world;
to give to all nations unity, peace, and concord;
and to bestow freedom upon all peoples,
We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord.
Amen.
Book of Common Prayer (BCP)
Joyful Easter greetings & blessings continue.
Julie
Revd Julie Mintern Vicar Lambourn Valley Benefice