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 been going on!

It has also been a rich time in our churches. Here at St Martin’s, we had a highly successful Songs of Praise within a wonderful Art and Flower Exhibition.

Could I just mention the fortnightly session of Community Prayers at St Martin’s. At 9.40, every other Tuesday, after I have been to take the school singing assembly, we meet to pray for our village, and the school and the pub, and for those who contribute to our local life.  We also think about people who are going through tough times.  All are welcome.  It is low key and undemonstrative; and there is coffee afterwards.

It is wonderful to be part of the communities at Whitwell, St Paul’s Walden, Bendish and Preston – it really is; and I’m deeply appreciative of the many kindnesses shown to me as vicar.

For the next couple of months, at least, I’m going to be out of action as I undergo open-heart surgery in London followed by a longish period of recuperation although I do not have a date for the operation yet. We have tried to provide cover for most Sundays, but I know that you will be understanding if there are one or two Sundays where sadly there is no service.

Do please note that in August we have only one service in the parish each Sunday. One Sunday will be at All Saints the next Sunday at Martin’s and so on. Always at 10am. Please look at the calendar. It is a lovely chance to visit a different church and share in the worship there.

With every blessing,

Stephen