A Letter From Our Vicar

Once again, the pet service last month was very popular, held for the first time not outside but in the church because of the weather. And earlier than in previous years, an amazing flower festival on the theme of wedding … Read More

Dear All, It’s been a full and rich few weeks. A new government resetting the political agenda, the Wimbledon finals, the first West Indian tests, the final of the Euros and the start of the Proms. What a lot has … Read More

Dear All, As I write, we are in the throes of a general election campaign; and as you read this, you will soon know the outcome of that election. I have observed many factors at work, including different ideas of … Read More

Dear All, When lockdown closed our churches, we lost something valuable. Today, four years on, I am really pleased to see how well used and valued both our churches are. Just consider: A wedding at All Saints just a few … Read More

Dear All, After Easter this year we went to Malta for the first time. We were impressed by the beauty and the history of the island. It was great to be reminded of St Paul’s influence there, and to see … Read More

Dear All, Easter is just behind us, the wonderful celebration of new life that comes from the resurrection of Jesus from the dead.  What had been dark and distressing and hopeless became by that event the grounds of hope for … Read More

Right at the end of this month, we will celebrate the great Christian festival of Easter. Leading up to it, by way of preparation, is the season of Lent – so named because the days are ‘lengthening’. I view Lent … Read More

I was reminded the other day of a distinction that I had forgotten. It is the distinction between shame cultures and guilt cultures. Shame cultures concentrate on what other people think about you, so loss of face or embarrassment are … Read More

So a new year starts, and how quickly it seems to come round! We look back on 2023 and try to take stock. We also look forward to 2024 and what it may bring. For each of us, the past … Read More

When war rages in many parts of the world, not least in Gaza, Ukraine, Myanmar and in many parts of Africa, it may sound naive or over-optimistic to recall us to the truth of Christmas – of Jesus as the … Read More