Newsletter - March 2024
As we enter the 3rd week of Lent, we could be forgiven for feeling a little low. The weather has been atrocious. The heavy rain and winds have washed away some of the early signs of spring that had lifted our spirits. We have set ourselves challenges that might be testing our resolve, and we are tired of waiting for the joy of Easter to arrive!
If you are seeking solace and inspiration, I recommend a little booklet produced by the Church of England’s publisher called “Watch & Pray” which is also available in a children’s version (which I actually prefer!).
In its introduction, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York invite us “to wait in hope for God to meet us and sustain us through the storms and trials life brings”. In the children’s version, there are weekly challenges and activities to try and both versions are beautifully illustrated. Or you can also sign up to daily emails or access online resources at www.cofe.io/WatchAndPray
Our annual meeting will take place on Sunday 17th March, in church, after the service. Coffee and cake will be served in church and enjoyed in the pews while the Churchwardens, Treasurer and other PCC members report on the past year at St Philip’s. If you can’t make the meeting, a few copies of the report will be printed and it will also be posted on the website. We have started writing the report and it is encouraging to see that most of the groups and activities at St Philip’s have continued to thrive even though we have now been in vacancy for nearly 9 months. Thank you!
Some activities at the church are given more focus than others so it is good to have this opportunity to shine the spotlight on a very important task which happens ‘behind the scenes’ – the cleaning and tidying of the church building. The ‘Holy Dusters’ meet on the first Wednesday of each month to polish and tidy the pews. If you can spare an hour to help with this, please speak to one of the churchwardens or to Christine Perera. Other volunteers have been hoovering the carpets and other dusty corners including the Higgs family AKA Team Henry (hoover!) who made it their mission during half term!
Easter Services
Thursday 28th March - 7pm - ‘The Last Supper’
Friday 29th March - 2pm - ‘The Way of the Cross’
Sunday 31st March - 10am - Family Eucharist and Lighting of the Paschal Candle
