There was a lot to do last Sunday, 2nd November. In the 8am, Said Communion, our Lay Minister, Rosemary, delivered the homily which had taken the content of the Readings for the day, as a foundation to what was said. This was the Ninth Sunday before Advent during which we also marked All Saints and All Souls. Rosemary noted that the business of Halloween had ended with the sight of unwanted and rotting pumpkins outside the supermarket. We all have the potential to become saints. This was the time to give thanks for such people. The Sermon on the Mount however continues to deliver the nine Beatitudes for us to ponder and how these lead to Sainthood, being a much needed set of criteria for us to follow. We celebrate the Grace of God and in this spiritual year of prayer when we have the opportunity to meditate upon insight and fellowship, we can follow the trail of John Bunyan and can participate in groups to take Pilgrimages to cathedrals, such as, the Abbey Church of St Albans which are useful tools in a messy world.
The all inclusive and All Together 10am Eucharist took place when we encourage all ages to take part, whether it be with reading, prayers, playing an instrument or just being present and joining in the corporate worship. Then, at 12:45pm, the monthly Sunday Roast in the Chapter House was totally booked beforehand and this extended act of outreach is always worthwhile and as per usual, John extended our thanks to all those who made it all possible. Finally, at 6pm, when it is now very dark and autumnal outside at this time of the year, the church was aglow with cosy lighting - but not too much - where we had our All Souls' evening service. This poignant experience was when we remember the departed and people had put their loved ones' names on special cards.
This Saturday, 8th November, there is a Quiet Day in progress at St Andrew's, the details of which have already been circulated and names of those attending have been noted. The theme is The Prodigal Son and our thanks go to al those attending, including Reverend Barbara and Reverend Liz. Meanwhile, be advised that Coffee Shop will also take place in the Chapter House, between 10am and 12pm.
Also, the Parish Eucharist for Sunday, 9th November, will begin a half an hour earlier than normal, at 9:30am. This is to make space for a seamless start with the Remembrance Day Service at 10:45am around the Town Market Square. This is when places of worship, youth groups, cadets and various organisations join with the local population and visitors from elsewhere, to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for the cause of freedom, giving their "today" for our "tomorrow".
This coming Tuesday, 11th November, starting at 10:45am, again on the Market Square, there will be the Armistice Day Service.