I wonder…

What does the month of September mean to you?

For me, it’s always meant going back to school.   First as a pupil, and then for twenty-two years as a teacher. And, having left teaching, and being married to a teacher, and a son who went to school, in some way or another I’ve been connected to the school year for most of my life. Accordingly, Claire having left teaching this summer, and Will having completed his GCSE’s, this will be the first year in forty-five years that I won’t have had a connection with full-time education!

Does it feel a bit weird? Well, yes it does a bit!

However, both as a teacher, and a priest, I’ve always embraced the philosophy of life-long-learning.

We never stop learning, and should always be open to new knowledge and ways of doing things.

There are many stories of Jesus teaching in the bible. However, one of my favourites often goes under the radar, mainly because of Martha’s activity. Her sister Mary, now into adulthood, sits still at the feet of Jesus, and, with wide eyed enthusiasm, learns from that what Jesus has to say.

However, unlike twenty-first century education, Jesus didn’t insist that Mary sits an exam, in order to prove what she had learnt. He recognised her faith via her still attentiveness.

In this way learning doesn’t always mean doing stuff, but rather taking the time to be quiet, and sit still at the feet of Jesus – and with the same wide eyed enthusiasm, absorb all that Jesus has to offer us. Sitting still at the feet of Jesus will look different for each one of us, as will what we learn. However, I’d encourage us all to take time out of our busy schedule, to sit, and to notice, and learn more about our Teacher, ourselves, and our relationship with God, and the world around us.

So may this September be a joyous time of discovery, that doesn’t stop at the end of the month, but rather continues for our whole life long. 

With every blessing

Nick

What is Christian Meditation??

The meditation begins with a short reading followed by twenty minutes of silent contemplative prayer, also known as meditation.

We meet every Thursday at 7pm in St. Mary’s Church (entry by the Priest’s Door or  by arrangement))

Our meetings are open to all, you do not need to be a member of St. Mary’s Church.

If you would like to join us please let me know in order that I may keep you updated regarding venue.

If you have no experience of Christian meditation or you would like to discuss anything about this please feel free to contact me. Meanwhile I look forward to welcoming you at our meetings.

Robin Bailey, Telephone  07922 173850.

The weather over the last few weeks has been remarkable with hot sunny days and warm evenings and nights. As we move into August and the beginning of the school holidays it would be nice to think that some warm sunny days would continue during the six week break, although some rain would of course

I hope this letter finds you all well and enjoying some time for rest, reflection, and perhaps a little adventure — though maybe not quite the sort of adventure our teddies enjoyed recently!

I want to begin by celebrating the wonderful success of our Teddy Bears’ Picnic fundraising event last month. It was a joy to see so many families gathered in the church grounds, bringing their much-loved bears for a day of fun and community spirit. One of the true highlights, of course, was the Teddy Zip Wire from the church tower! I don’t think any of us will forget the sight of brave little bears (some more than a little nervous!) whizzing down from the heights to cheers and laughter below.

The event raised a fantastic amount for our church funds and also for our Tuesday groups; a testament to the generosity and enthusiasm of everyone involved. Thank you to all who helped organise the day, baked cakes, served teas, manned stalls, and ensured everything ran smoothly. A special thanks goes to those who assisted with the rather technical business of sending teddies safely down the wire; I understand it required both engineering skill and a lot of string!

But beyond the money raised, what touched me most was the atmosphere of joy and welcome that filled our churchyard. Events like

this remind us that our church is not just a building, but a living community, a place of laughter, hospitality, and belonging for all ages. Whether you were here with grandchildren, friends, or simply came along to watch, it was wonderful to see familiar faces and new ones among us.

As we enter August, many of us will be taking holidays or enjoying time with loved ones. Let us remember that rest is a gift from God.  Jesus himself took time away from the crowds to pray and restore his spirit. Whether your summer involves travelling away or staying at home, I encourage you to take some time for the soul: perhaps with a good book, a walk in nature, or simply a few unhurried moments of prayer.

August tends to be a quieter season in church life, but that gives us space to listen; to God, to each other, and to the gentle stirrings of the Spirit in our lives.

Time seems to go so quickly and it won’t be long before were preparing for the Harvest Festival services! And if you still have your teddy, keep them ready: I hear rumours they may be called into action again next year!

With every blessing for a joyful and peaceful August,

Yours in Christ,

John