From the Rector...

Now we are in the season of Lent, the time when we
remember Jesus battling with the devil in the
wilderness and also the time leading up to the
crucifixion. It's a time when the church has no floral
decorations and in the past social events and
gathering were frowned upon. Now, even people who
have no connection with the church give things up in
Lent as a self discipline and use it as a time to think of others. It is a time which some people dislike and find too morbid. It is also a time when we can be reminded of the pain in our own lives and perhaps this is why it can be so uncomfortable. The whole point of the Lenten discipline is to see it through to its conclusion which is not morbid but is the resurrection which gives us so much hope. All our sadness will one day be transformed, and whatever our circumstances and whatever sadness Lent connects with in us, the light of hope - the light of Christ -flickers on, and though we remove flowers in Lent we always have candles on the altar to remind us of this truth.

For those who find it hard to keep to a Lenten discipline - Sundays are feast days, the 40 days of Lent do not include them, and with a bit of luck if you are diligent you can discover all sorts of saints days which are also feast days when you do not have to fast! For those who will try giving up chocolate, spending extra time bible reading or praying, or whatever you choose to offer to God this Lent there is still refreshment Sunday to give you a break. This 4th Sunday in Lent is also known as Mothering Sunday when we shall be giving thanks to God for our mothers and fathers and for family life. There will be a family service at 9.30 when posies will be distributed and we welcome regulars and visitors to join us.

In this village we have a very active Mother's Union and throughout the world it is a rapidly growing organization which supports family life. Perhaps this is an appropriate time to include their prayer:

Loving Lord
We thank you for your love so freely given to us all.
We pray for families around the world.
Bless the work of the Mothers’ Union
as we seek to share your love
through the encouragement, strengthening
and support of marriage and family life.
Empowered by your Spirit,
may we be united in prayer and worship,
and in love and service reach out as your hands across the world.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen
                                                                                              Heather Butcher