Who would have thought that we would still be enjoying this wonderful summer weather after several weeks of sun and blue skies? It’s great for the school children – after all what can be worse than six weeks of school holiday with the rain pouring down. I still continue to sit in my garden in the late evening watching the swifts but also waiting for twilight to see the bats come out and feed. You will all know the ongoing problem we have in the church with our colony of pipistrelle’s, roosting somewhere in the eaves and old timbers high in the roof but as a country parish we have learnt to live with them over the years. They emerge from their roost about twenty minutes after the sun has gone down, flying above ground level searching for their insect prey which they catch and eat on the wing. Their incredible sonar capabilities enable them to flit around (hence the nickname ‘flittermouse’) without colliding with anything or getting entangled in your hair!!
Bill Taylor’s farewell service on 11th July was heart-warming, bringing our community together to support Tessa and family. Do read Bill’s obituary published on the website.
Although we are still in our quiet time it gives me great pleasure to welcome Edward Stewart Wood and Stephanie Madgett to St Mary’s for Holy Matrimony on 22nd August at noon. This will be a joyous day for all and we wish them both a happy and contented future together.
The very next day, the 23rd August, Rev Barry is holding the benefice BBQ at the Rectory in Carterton (behind St John’s Church) This event was very much enjoyed by all those who attended last year so do think about going along and joining in the fun. You don’t need to take anything – just turn up. And on Sunday 30th there’s the Benefice Service at St Britius!
Lene Bussell
I trust you are all having a jolly enough “Ordinary Time”, as we are in August; perhaps the real middle of the year, with schools out and many families relaxing and going on some holidays. There might be some rain in August too! The name “ordinary” comes from the term “ordinal numbers”, where each Sunday is numbered after Trinity Sunday, such as first, second, third. Folks might say that nothing much happens for the next 20 or so Sundays, until we reach Advent. There is certainly a lot of do, learn about and participate in throughout this increasingly busy benefice.
Please continue to pray for the life and work of the churches in this great benefice, and that the right person or people may feel called to be a Team Vicar as part of the ministry team.
Best regards,
Rev Barry