Rector’s Update 04/03/25

Tomorrow, Ash Wednesday is the start of Lent.  Lent is a season to embrace those things that will help us to grow closer to God.  For some that might mean giving things up by fasting in some way or stopping a particular activity (maybe a day without screens!).  For others it will be about taking something on, perhaps more Bible reading, praying or reading a Christian book.  However you mark Lent I pray that it will be a meaningful time in your walk with God.  On Ash Wednesday we have a single service for the whole Benefice – 7.30pm at St Denys’ Stanford Dingley.  Do come if you are able so that we can start our journey through Lent together. 

Next Wednesday (12th) we start our Lent Course called Tenants of The King which will help us to consider what the Bible has to say to us about the environment and to offer the opportunity for us to consider how we can respond as Christians, and as churches.  About 25 people have indicated that they are coming but there is still room for more - please do reply to let me know if you intend to come.

On Sunday 16th March, Ian and Jill Jeal will be visiting both St Mary’s and All Saints’ to speak about their mission work.  Many across the Benefice will know Ian and Jill and you are all welcome to come along to one of these services.

Our next Benefice Evening Celebration will be on Sunday 23rd March at 6.30pm at All Saints’ Church.  The speaker will be Steve Goss who is President of Freedom in Christ International (www.freedominchrist.org).  Steve lives in West Berkshire and worships locally.  Do come along for a time of sung worship, teaching and prayer ministry.

All of our Parishes are currently renewing their Electoral Roll and everyone needs to reapply to join.  The three Electoral Roll Officers will be in touch with you if they haven’t already.

Good news - the church office phone is now working again – we are very grateful to Jerry Kent who has spent many hours on the phone to BT to get this addressed.

Have a good week

Steve