Last Sunday, 3rd November, was that time of year when bonfires are lit, accompanied by disintegrating patterns in dark skies, as over the first five or so days, we 'remember' and this has been an integral part of the Anglican calendar as well as in English social history. In the 8am Said Communion, Rosemary's sermon made mention of All Hallows Eve, All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day and whatever their emphases they focus on 'remembering'.
On All Saints Sunday, at the 10am Eucharist; we celebrated in particular the followers of Zebrust over the years. Rosemary pointed out the various symbols within our church that reflect past saints. Rachel read the gospel piece that gives us the beatitudes. The whole congregation made a sort of circle of saints whilst Freya, Jack, Oscar, Niah, Ava and David offered prayers from the centre of the church.
Lunch was enjoyed by many in the Chapter House from 12:45pm onwards and it was the perfect November backdrop to enjoy hearty and hot food in convivial company. Once again, our thanks go to the experienced volunteers who made it all possible. The kitchen at St Andrew's is certainly no zone to one particular gender! Later, at 6pm, there followed Sung Evensong for All Souls', a fine conclusion to the opening days of the 'remembering' season with Winter close on our heels.
For those intending to share Parish Eucharist this Sunday, 10th November, at St Andrew's, the service will start at 9:30am, not 10am. All visitors are welcome as always but be aware of the change of time just for this particular Remembrance Sunday. At 10:45am, we will then walk to the town square for the Remembrance Service to join the town's folk and other organisations and faith groups.
At 6pm, back at St Andrew's, there will be our lay-led more informal evening service.
Between Sundays, looking ahead, there is lots going on. Here are just some: On Saturday, 30th November there will be the Christmas Bazaar. On Sunday, 1st December, we are celebrating our church's Patronal Festival with 8am Said Communion, 10am Family Eucharist, 12:45pm Sunday Lunch for those who have booked and at 6pm, the Advent Service of Light. On Saturday, 14th December, from 10am to 12noon, there will be wreath making including a Soup Lunch. On Saturday, 21st December, there will be our Nativity Tableau.
Remember that until told otherwise, the church is open for private prayer from Mondays to Saturdays between 9am to 4pm. This is also an opportunity to look at noticeboards in the foyer and see what is what and who is who as well as contacts.