Dear friends,
Thank you
As a benefice of three churches we entering a season of gratitude. Primarily to God, yes, but also to friends who support the life and worship of the churches, and to those who have been involved in ministry over the years.
On 4th September at Ashampstead we will be thanking people who are actively involved in supporting the church in a wide variety of ways.
On 6th September at Basildon we will be thanking God for the people and ministers who have held the title Vicar and developed the life and worship of our church over many decades, some of whom will be coming to join us.
Then, towards the end of the month and moving into October, we will be thanking God for the harvest which he has continually provided for us. There is so much to be thankful for.
We’re at an increasingly worrying time within our society at the moment with our plethora of crises: energy crisis, environmental crisis, hate crime and identity crisis, health crisis, political crisis, policing, education, media etc. etc. etc. Therefore, it is especially important to take a moment and give thanks for the things that we do enjoy in our lives and even for the ways in which the difficult times produce in us some goodness. One of my favourite authors C. S Lewis once said, “We ought to give thanks for all fortune: if it is good, because it is good, if bad, because it works in us patience, humility and the contempt of this world and the hope of our eternal country.” Lewis is of course echoing the wonderful words of Scripture “Give thanks in all circumstances” 1 Thessalonians.
We know that all of us will feel the impact of the current rise in cost of living, and that this winter may be a cause of great worry. If we can help at all in any way, please do get in touch.
Below is one of the first Christian songs I was introduced to all about giving thanks which has remained a favourite of mine, perhaps you might enjoy it too.
God bless you!
Love,
Grant
The Benefice Weekly Newsletter
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Prayer Points
Please do continue to pray for the continued conflict in Ukraine. Many families are settling locally so do please pray for inspiration and wisdom how best to serve and welcome them during this time.
Please pray for the new school term starting this coming week. For the teachers, staff, students all to settle into the new routines easily.
Please pray for those who are currently ill with covid. May they be protected and restored quickly.
Please pray for the NHS continuing to serve the nation with tiredness and fatigue featuring heavily.
Please continue to pray for those we know and love who are at this time unwell or recovering from various illnesses or operations.
Please pray for those within our parishes who have lost loved ones recently.
Please pray for those who are enjoying holidays and breaks this summer. After the difficulties of the past few years, we pray that true rest will be found.
