Our Evensong for All Souls, when we remember those we have loved who have died, was on Sunday 7th November. Mark gave the Address and, after Elaine lit one candle on behalf of all of us, Mark read out the names of those we wished to remember. It was a moving and meaningful service. Sadly, Rev’d Canon John Simpson, who had agreed to give the Address, was admitted to the Bristol Heart Institute a few days before, so couldn’t be with us. At the time of writing, John is still in hospital, but he is improving with treatment and he expects to be discharged soon. We continue to pray for John and Carol and hope to welcome them back before long.
On Saturday 13th November we held the annual Churchyard clear-up. Around 20 of us worked hard strimming, cutting, raking and weeding, so the churchyard is now ready for winter. Thanks to all who came along to help, as well as to those who had done work in the days leading up to the clear-up and to the ladies who provided refreshments. We’re very grateful.
Advent Sunday is on 28th November, when we would normally have an Evensong. This year, we are all invited to go to the special Advent Carol Service at 6:30 pm that day at St. Mary, West Harptree. Accordingly, our own service that evening will be cancelled. We often welcome the Choir to join us at Stowey; Advent Sunday will be enable us to pay a return visit!
Turning to Christmas, the traditional Carol Service will be on Friday 17th December at 6:30 pm. Dr Andrew Day will play the organ and we will enjoy singing some of the old favourites and hearing the readings recording the events of that first Christmas. Clearly numbers will be limited for the Carol Service, so I will be taking bookings for this service. In view of the continuing issues around Covid, we have decided not to hold the usual Party. But we do hope we can return to The Mead next year. And on Christmas Day at 9am, there will be a service of Holy Communion with organ and carols. Again, I will be taking bookings for this service to ensure we’re all as safe as possible. My contact details are on the contacts page of this website.
Happy Christmas to you all!
Jill Nicol, Churchwarden
