Thanks to all who joined us for our special services over Easter. Everyone, including someone tending a family grave, enjoyed coffee and hot Cross buns served after our Good Friday Service of Meditation, when we remembered Christ’s betrayal and crucifixion. And on Easter Sunday we celebrated the Resurrection of Christ on the 3rd day, with joyful hymns and a wonderful, uplifting service of Holy Communion. The church itself looked truly glorious, with beautiful flower arrangements and a sparkling church. Thanks to all who contributed to make these services meaningful and enjoyable, not least to Rev’d Trevor Stubbs and to Jean Routley and Tom Rogers, our organists.

On Sunday 7th May we won’t have a service in Stowey or Bishop Sutton, but instead, at 10.30am, we’ll join the congregation of the United Parish at St. Laurence, East Harptree, for a Morning Service to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles 111 and the re-opening of the church after the completion of major works of restoration. Coronation cake and coffee will be served after the service. All are welcome, but it would be helpful for them to know approximate numbers, so please can you let me know if you plan to attend?

We have now submitted our planning application for a small wooden building in the churchyard to house an accessible WC and kitchenette. The lack of such facilities is simply untenable in 2023. It drastically limits the use to which this important heritage building could be put by local people and local organisations, as well as restricting its use as the Parish Church of Stowey. I have experienced several instances where people are unable to attend services and events because of the lack of a loo. And there have been many occasions when individuals, including our then Diocesan Bishop, have had to relieve themselves in the churchyard out of pure necessity. We’ll keep you informed and thank those who have already supported this important application.

Finally, on Trinity Sunday, 4th June at 6.30pm we shall be delighted to welcome our Archdeacon, Dr Adrian Youings, who will take our service of Choral Evensong with the Choir of the United Parish, directed by Mrs Tricia Rees-Jones, with Jean at the organ. Drinks and canapés will be served after the service. Please attend; you will be most welcome!