The annual Holiday Club took place as usual in and around the grounds of St Andrew's Parish Church and this year involved some 170 youngsters and a goodly number of helpers and volunteers. It all came to an end until next year with the traditional barbeque, enjoyed in the summer sun. Last Sunday therefore was a busy day, comprising in part the special 11am Holiday Club service. Chris writes that the worship and thanksgiving "was a fitting tribute to a busy week of holiday club activities." The 'centre piece' inside featured the exotic colours and icons associated with the tropics and which acted as a backdrop during the week when things were done as a Jungle Adventure. Despite such happy and joyful goings on, the underlying message was the clear fact that by following Jesus we always have a sure foundation. It was good to see young people growing in confidence before a watchful audience and the 'parrots', namely, Freya, Niah and Arya, led those present in a Jungle Jam! Reverend Liz took the service , aided by Pippa and Rachel with the readings. The underlying biblical incident, known so well, centred upon Peter's denial of knowing Jesus for which he was forgiven by Christ after the resurrection.
Prior to the lively celebration and worship described above, there was Parish Eucharist in what our church historian has described as the oldest part of the building, facing the memorial altar. Our new Administration Assistant was announced by a most grateful and ebullient Reverend Liz. Reader Rosemary's homily concerned our ability to 'predict' the times, taking the content of the Gospel Reading from Luke 12,49 to 56 as a relevant passage for this. Despite useful technology, we need to heed Christ's warning to be truly observant of the 'signs' around us. We all need to ask the question: 'In a world of climate change and the needy, are we just paying lip service to these issues, being chiefly concerned about ourselves?' Therefore, two services took place, one being full of drama and participation and the other, simpler in some senses but having that cosy intimacy.
On the 24th August it will be the Tenth Sunday after Trinity and the usual 10am Parish Eucharist will take place. Back to normal, whatever that means.
The Mothers' Union representation is increasing at St Andrew's and recently members shared worship with the Bedford Archdeaconry at All Saints Church at nearby Cople where there was celebration of the founder of the MU, Mary Sumner. Members of the Biggleswade parish and anyone else for that matter, may well be interested in what is in store at nearby Sutton over the weekend, 30 - 31st August. On the Saturday, there is Open Air Theatre with Emma, by Jane Austen , marking the 250th anniversary, with Afternoon Teas afterwards and an Exhibition of Dolls Houses. On the Sunday, between 2pm and 5pm, Sutton Classic Cars will be a highlight amongst a number of other entertainments, ranging from plants to a Garden Railway.
On Sunday, 7th September, St Andrew's is having the usual turn of the month two morning services. On Saturday, 20th September, we are putting on our 40th Anniversary Country Fayre. On Sunday, 21st September, Team 2025 will be giving a feedback presentation in the Chapter House on this year's outreach to Mafambisa, South Africa. On Sunday, 5th October, there is Harvest Festival.
Remember, you are always welcome at St Andrew's and the church is open for private prayer from Mondays to Saturdays, between 9 to 4. If you go to our website, you will find telephone numbers for our two churchwardens and the church office and a lot of information about our church life with further notes at a more diocesan level. Have you visited the Abbey Church at St Albans? Many have and do and from all over the world. If you haven't, it is very well worth the trip whether it be for worship or to simply immerse yourselves in the sights and sounds around the place of Alban's martyrdom and the heart of our Diocese. The Roman antiquities of Verulamium are extremely impressive too.