Rector’s Update 01/10/24

Today we mark a new beginning as the combined Benefice of Bradfield, Bucklebury and Stanford Dingley comes into existence.  Apart from the formality of a new legal framework, not much else will change but we will continue to find ways to work together and further the Kingdom of God across the churches and we will soon be able to start recruitment for a new House for Duty Team Vicar who will live in Bradfield Southend but work across the whole team.  

On Saturday we had a wonderful Harvest Supper and Barn Dance when over 80 of us gathered at the Black Barn.  There was lots of fun and laughter and it was really good to be able to relax together and make new friends.  I want to say a huge thank you to John and Lindsay Bishop who made the Barn available for our use and did so much to organise the event, along with others from St Peter’s.  Thank you too to all those who helped with the setup, cooking, clearing up afterwards and of course the amazing musicians who kept us entertained throughout the evening – thank you all.

Next Sunday (6th) we will be celebrating Harvest at All Saints, St Denys’ and St Mary’s Bucklebury.  Please do bring food gifts that can be donated to the West Berks Foodbank (https://westberks.foodbank.org.uk/give-help/donate-food/) -  check to see which items are most needed.  At both All Saints and St Mary’s these will be collected during the service.  We are also asking for financial donations for the work of Tearfund https://www.tearfund.org/ - a separate giving bowl will be available in each church for this additional gift.  A further Harvest celebration will take place at St Mary’s Marlston on Sunday 13th October at 4.30pm.

On Tuesday 5th November (a week later than previously advertised) our new toddler group Small Saints will start at All Saints’.  Please pray for that new venture.   If you have any large toys at home that children/grandchildren no longer need the team might be interested - particularly sit and ride toys, a small climbing frame, pop up tent, tunnel or play kitchen.  Please note that they must be in excellent condition.  Also, whilst we have a core team, we would love to know of anyone who could to volunteer to help at the group or in the kitchen with refreshments, either regularly or occasionally. For either toys or volunteering please contact caroline@2bsd.org.uk.

Finally, does anyone have desk top design skills and would be willing to help with designing a couple of publicity leaflets?  Please contact me if so.  

Have a good week.

Steve