Last Sunday, the news concerning the resignation of Justin Welby as the Archbishop of Canterbury was very much on the minds of us all with Reverend Liz's homily therefore focussing upon the safeguarding and welfare of those using the church whether it be for worship or any of the other named activities which take place here at St Andrew's. The Church of England has been shaken to the core. Jesus - the embodiment of God in the World - pointed to the fallibility of things rather than making apocalyptic predictions about the end of the world. People can be gripped by fear and uncertainty, asking the question: ' What is going wrong?' We all feel a profound sense of sorrow for the victims of wicked actions and on what the church calls 'safeguarding Sunday', we are called to repentance and renewal. At St Andrew's, as elsewhere, Faith and Safeguarding are central, particularly for the more vulnerable and as well as having a defined and active structure in place for such concerns we must all be aware and vigilant. We must listen, respond and protect. We must be a place of safety and accountability, knowing that our diocese has a Safeguarding Team who can support and advise us all.
At 12noon, the Baptism of Evelyn took place and we wish Evelyn and the family and godparents God's Blessing.
On Saturday, 23rd November, between 10 and 12, there is Coffee Shop and Warm Spaces in the Chapter House. On Sunday, 24th November, celebrating Christ the King, there is 10am Parish Eucharist as usual.
On Friday, 29th November, there will be the big Christmas Lights switch-on in the Market Square from 6pm to 7pm. On Saturday, 30th November, between 10am and 3pm, there will be our Christmas Bazaar, where there will be a Cake Stall, Crafts, Tombola, jigsaws, books, a Bric a Brac Stall, and a Raffle. On Sunday, 1st December, there will be Said Communion at 8am, Family Eucharist at 10am, Sunday Roast in the Chapter House for those who have booked a place at 12;45pm and at 6pm, the Service of Light.
Remember that the church is open for private prayer from Mondays to Saturdays between 9am to 4pm.