Dear friends,
According to the scriptures, God's love for each and every one of us is boundless and immeasurable. In the book of Psalms, it is written that "the LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made" (Psalm 145:9). This verse highlights God's inherent goodness and his deep care for every individual. The New Testament echoes this sentiment, stating, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). This verse emphasizes the magnitude of God's love, as it extends to the entire world and promises eternal life for those who believe. From these scriptures, it is evident that God's love encompasses each and every one of us, regardless of our flaws or circumstances. This is an important truth to hold onto.
This week the Church of England’s General Synod has voted to trial services of blessings for same-sex couples, amid heated debate.
We recognise within our churches, our benefice and even our ministry team there are variety of views held on this subject. For some of us, this decision is stepping away from God’s Word. For others, however, it does not go far enough into inclusion. Whatever your thoughts and feelings are on the subject, we want to re-iterate that we as a ministry team are here for you, so however you may be feeling at the moment, should you wish to speak to or pray with us about this or any other matter, we are here to listen and walk alongside you. You are dearly loved by us and by God.
Love and blessings,
Revd Grant
SERVICEs THIS WEEKend
We gather at 8.30am for a short said communion service using the words of the wonderful Book of Common Prayer. The service will include a short sermon, and plenty of time to pray, reflect and encounter God in this wonderful place. What a brilliant way to begin a Sunday - especially as there is coffee and biscuits served afterwards.
We join together for a short interactive family worship service. Lots of fun! Action songs, Bible readings, dressing up, toys and we finish with yummy refreshments. Bacon butties, posh omelettes, pastries and much more.Lots of Holy Chaos. Come join the fun.
St Mary's
This is a fabulous way to round off the weekend. We gather together in the atmospheric St. Mary’s Aldworth to pray and worship together using the traditional and powerful words of Evensong from the Book of Common Prayer. We have a small community choir to help us sing God’s praise. There is a short sermon with prayers and psalms. If you are looking for a spiritual encounter with the Lord in the comfort of a traditional service - this is for you.
St. Bartholomew’s Fundraising Concert
Upcoming in the villages
Our weekly play session for babies and toddlers meets on Thursday mornings in St Stephen’s Upper Basildon during term time. We start at 9.30 and it’s a wonderful time for the little ones and their carers to come together for play, craft and yummy snacks too finishing at 11am.
Post Office in the church centre at Basildon. Most Post Office services available plus local free range eggs, and books.
St. Stephen’s Cafe is open weekly on Monday mornings. It runs alongside the community post office at St. Stephen’s church. Various groups help to run and support it as we raise funds for various causes. Come along and join us for lovely hot drinks, freshly made homemade cakes and a good catch up with friends.
The Practicing the Way Course is an opportunity for us to explore what it means to follow Jesus in everyday life. Together, we'll engage in practical rhythms such as prayer, simplicity, and community, helping us grow as disciples and reflect His love in the world. Whether you're just starting your journey or have been walking with Christ for years, this course is for everyone. Come and be part of a supportive group learning to live out authentic faith together.
Our weekly play session for babies and toddlers meets on Thursday mornings in St Stephen’s Upper Basildon during term time. We start at 9.30 and it’s a wonderful time for the little ones and their carers to come together for play, craft and yummy snacks too finishing at 11am.
Services next Sunday 3rd december
LAtest episode of our Podcast
This Advent reflection was given by Revd Grant Fensome at the All Churches Together service on Advent Sunday 2024 at St. Stephen's Upper Basildon.