FROM THE CHURCHWARDENS
Another week seems simply to have flown by …
We were pleased to meet Father Nigel and Liz on a sunny afternoon for a leisurely, but very useful chat and now are helping to plan firmly towards his Licensing (as Rector of St Mary’s, Woodbridge and Priest in Charge of St Mary’s, Great Bealings), which – according to current rules as a ‘one-off’ - will be accessible only to thirty people in total. However, it is indeed good news that this will be a real service and in the church and we look forward to such time when the whole parish – and possibly, by then, ‘benefice’- may celebrate and also welcome visitors from Mayfield and Five Ashes.
The opportunity to visit the church for specific sessions during the week continues to be welcomed by many, with probably the greatest number (of around forty) arriving last Saturday afternoon. You may have been fortunate to catch piano practice by a girl, for whom we have been privileged to offer the use of the instrument, while she has prepared for her Grade 8 Exam, as access to her usual one had been denied by lockdown. (We wish her well, as she awaits her results). On other days, you may have heard a boy preparing for his Grade 4 Organ exam. This follows the process of many years, by which – as a church – we are able to help foster the enthusiasm and expertise of young musicians.
After its most recent cut, timed to benefit the wild flowers, it is good to note that the churchyard is looking so much better all round and that the roses are in their second bloom. Not only that, but it is great to see it in wider use again, as shown by visiting artists, who spent a morning investigating and sketching some of the external features of the building and its surroundings.
Possibly the greatest joy though is the welcoming of friends back to church and participating together in the Parish Eucharist …
We hope that you have been able to enjoy this recent brilliant weather and, as we continue to care for each other, please accept our love, prayers and best wishes for you, your family and friends.
Barbara & Veronica