Norma and I always start our day with a short reflection, usually on an app we can download onto a phone. At present we are using the Church of England’s ‘Everyday Faith’ series of reflections. As I write this article, we have just listened to a reflection entitled ‘A Joyful ‘Thank You,’’ The reflection optimistically points out that, although the daily news and social media concentrates on the bad, even evil things that are in the world, there are many more good things happening, that go unreported. Of course, many of these good things are the small things we take for granted, but perhaps we should joyfully celebrate these good things and say thank you to God for his provision.
We are very fortunate to live in villages in splendid rural settings, where we wonder at the beauties of God’s creation. In both St. Mary’s and St. Edith’s we have open graveyards where burials and interments of ashes are still possible for anyone who lives, or has lived, in the local communities. With the good weather we have had recently, the graveyards attract those who have come to lay flowers on the graves of their deceased loved ones and send a quiet moment in peace, as they think about happier times shared with those now departed this earth.
We would like to think that the graveyards are well maintained, but there is always extra work that could be done, especially general tidying up. With that in mind both churches have decided to invite members of the local communities to join them for tidy up days. St. Edith’s have designated Saturday 7th. June, 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m., and will provide refreshments (probably sandwiches) for all those who join us. Helen Peel, one of the Church Wardens will remind people of this invitation via Facebook nearer the event. St. Mary’s have designated Wednesday 2nd. July, 5.30 p.m. onwards (see poster in this edition of the Reporter), and will provide a BBQ for all volunteers. Please join us for these community fellowship events.
God bless,
Tim and Norma