We had a busy Sunday last week saying goodbye to Katie. A gathering from Bampton, Brize Norton and Black Bourton assembled in the hall at St John’s after the morning service and we all enjoyed a delicious lunch with Katie, Miles and Jesse to send them on their way. At St Mary’s for evensong, Katie preached her last sermon in the benefice and we presented her with a basket of roses picked from Judy’s garden and arranged by Christine. It was sad to see her go but we heard the good news that she has been offered a curacy in the Exeter diocese in a parish adjacent to Miles’ benefice so she will be able to continue her ministry uninterrupted. I am sure we all hope they settle well in North Devon and enjoy the next chapter of their lives.
The sun shone for our wedding couple last Saturday and the church looked magnificent adorned with wild cow parsley and greenery from Lawrence and Niki’s garden. Alex and Jack said their vows in front of a small group of close family and will follow up with a bigger party next year when their wide circle of friends will be able to attend. The service was led by Katie and our bell ringers did the happy couple proud before and after the service. Well done to all involved, it was delightful.
As we move into summer, we will be saying goodbye to Rev Drew and Billie and also Rev Ian and Carol. They are retiring at the end of July and Rev Barry will be looking after the benefice until a new Team Rector and Team Vicar are appointed sometime next year. There will be more news on a special service in July in next months newsletter. In the meantime services are as normal.