The Benefice

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 15th October

Dear friends,

Romans 12:12 ~ Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Rejoicing in hope is not always the easiest thing to do when wére confronted with conflict. But the hope that is spoken about in the Bible provides steadfast assurance and encouragement in the midst of difficulties. In the face of challenges, it becomes a beacon of light, reminding us that God is faithful and can turn every situation around for our ultimate good. The Bible teaches us that hope is not wishful thinking, but a confident expectation that God will fulfill His promises. It is a firm belief that He is working behind the scenes, even when life seems bleak. Despite the trials we encounter, hope keeps our hearts anchored, reminding us that God is with us every step of the way, guiding us, and empowering us to overcome. It reassures us that our Heavenly Father never abandons His children and that even in the darkest moments, His divine plans for our lives continue to unfold. In difficult times, biblical hope enables us to cling to God's unwavering love and reminds us that He is our refuge and strength.

As conflict persists around our world, our hearts are burdened with the immense pain and suffering endured by all those affected. I invite all individuals to join us in prayer during this tumultuous time. Let us seek solace in the power of prayer, praying for the hearts of leaders involved to be touched with wisdom and compassion, leading to peaceful resolutions. May those caught in the crossfire find comfort and protection, and may their cries for peace be heard by the world. Let us hold constant in our prayers, fervently asking for an end to the sorrow, violence, and loss, and for the hope of reconciliation and healing to be planted in the hearts of all individuals involved.

Love

Grant


This Wednesday: Ordination

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A special gift for Jen’s ordination

(FINAL FINAL CHANCE - CLOSES 15th OCTOBER)

We have organised a gift for Jen which is a silver home communion set which she will be able to use in her ministry throughout her life. It symbolises the work and role of a priest in sharing and celebrating God’s special meal with his people.

If you would like to make a contribution towards the cost of this lovely gift, we would be gladly welcome contributions using the button below. Thank you so much.


SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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Upcoming in the villages

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See all upcoming events on our website


Services next Sunday 15th OCTOBER

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School Corner

We love serving and helping at our local C of E Primary School. Our ministry team lead Collective Worship weekly and help in any way they can to facilitate the spiritual lives of the young people, teachers and staff. Here is a link to their latest newsletter for information what is happening at Basildon Primary:


A special invitation

Last weekend a few representatives from St. Mary’s Aldworth were kindly invited to join The Prayer Book Society for their 50th Anniversary celebration in Westminster. The day began with a Choral Holy Communion at St. Margaret’s Westminster, presided over by the ecclesiastical patrol the Rt Revd and Rt Hon. The Lord Chartres. The service was followed by a generous and delicious lunch at Church House, followed by Evensong at Westminster Abbey. Over 600 delegates gathered in these ancient buildings and worshipped in unison using the powerful words of the Book of Common Prayer. We would like to say a huge thank you to The Prayer Book Society, and particularly Mr John Service, for arranging a very memorable day out.


LAtest episode of our Podcast

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