Dear Friends and Neighbours,

In our readings this week (links below)

… God steps into a community trapped by old excuses and generational blame to offer a refreshing message of hope: our past doesn’t get to write our future. Every single person has the freedom to turn around, make things right, and receive a  fresh start. God isn’t looking to catch us out; God simply wants us to choose life, open our hearts, and step into new beginnings.

… Paul shows us what turning around looks like in our everyday relationships. It starts with a gentle, humble mindset—the same spirit Jesus showed when he chose to serve rather than assert power. When we let go of the need to be right or superior, God works inside us, giving us both the desire and the strength to live with genuine kindness and compassion.

… Jesus brings this down to earth through a story about two sons. God isn’t moved by polite words or religious titles that never turn into action; God values the honest, quiet heart that changes course and shows up. Even when we’ve said “no” in the past, it’s never too late to turn around and do what’s right.

 Together, these readings offer us a quiet reassurance for daily life: God’s grace meets us right where we are, but it never leaves us there. We don’t have to carry the weight of past mistakes or worry about keeping up appearances. Today, we are invited to take a deep breath, take responsibility for our own path, and choose the humble, loving way of Jesus—one small act of obedience at a time.

Yours in Christ,

Sandra Edgerton

Licensed Lay Reader

Worship this Sunday

Sunday 27th September 2026

Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity (Green)

WINFORD, St Mary & St Peter

9.00 am Morning Worship

FELTON, St Katharine

11.00 am Morning Worship

STOWEY, St Nicholas & St Mary

6.30 pm Holy Communion (BCP)

CHEW STOKE, St Andrew

6.30 pm Evensong

Next Sunday:

Sunday 4th October 2026 (Trinity 18) (Green)

8.30 am Holy Communion (BCP), Regil; 10.30 am Harvest Thanksgiving, Chew Stoke

11.00 am Harvest Thanksgiving, Felton; 6.30 pm Harvest Choral Evensong, Stowey

Readings & Collect

Ezekiel 18: 1-4, 25-end

Philippians 2: 1-13

Matthew 21: 23-32

The Collect of the Day

Almighty God,

you have made us for yourself, and our hearts are

restless till they find their rest in you: pour your love

into our hearts and draw us to yourself, and so bring us

at the last to your heavenly city where we shall see you

face to face; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,

who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the

Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

 ,

Collect from the Book of Common Prayer:

 

Lord, we pray thee that thy grace may always prevent and follow us, and make us continually to be given to all good works; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen

For your prayers

Please pray for…

… the Church, whose witness is often weakened by disunity, that we may be a people of active faith rather than empty words. We pray for all clergy and people, that our life together may bring honour to Christ.  Grant us humble hearts that choose sincere obedience, living out your grace each day with honesty and quiet compassion.

… Rev’d Dr Ian Mills as he is installed and takes up his duties as Rector of Bath Abbey.

… our Benefice, God our Father you have welcomed each one of us in Jesus and called us to be his body in this place; send us your Holy Spirit at this time of uncertainty and change, to fill us with vision, energy, and faithfulness in prayer, that we may be true to our calling to bring new life to our community. 

… the world, for all situations of violence, hostility and racial prejudice where cycle of blame, ancient conflicts, and inherited divisions cause suffering. We pray for leaders and nations to break free from past grievances and choose paths of reconciliation, justice, and peace.

… our community, for our local streets, schools, workplaces, and homes. Help us to support one another in practical ways, offering second chances, kindness, and practical care in our daily lives.

…  the sick and suffering, for all who are carrying heavy burdens in body, mind, or spirit. May they know your comforting presence, receive healing and rest, and find strength in the care of those around them.

… the departed, for those who have finished their earthly journey and rest in your eternal peace. We pray for all who mourn, that they may be comforted by the sure hope of your everlasting mercy and a fresh beginning in you.

Amen.

Contact

Mrs Sandra Edgerton, Licensed Lay Reader,

Holy Trinity Church, Wick Road,

Bishop Sutton, BS39 5XD

Telephone: (01275) 331617

sandra.edgerton@gmail.com