Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 12th November

Dear friends,

Remembrance Sunday serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals who gave their lives in service to their countries. In the midst of this time of reflection, it is only natural that our hearts are inclined to seek the comforting embrace of God's peace, especially recognising the ongoing conflicts faced by people around the world today. In contemplating the courage and selflessness that happens in times of conflict, our minds are naturally directed towards God's boundless love and the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made on the cross. Jesus' unwavering love for humanity gave birth to peace, breaking the chains of sin and providing us with the opportunity for eternal salvation. And so as we live today it is He who calls us to cherish the preciousness of life and to work tirelessly for peace in a broken world. Remembrance Sunday, in its essence, urges us to turn our gaze towards God's perfect peace, striving to emulate His love and grace in all that we do.

I do hope that you will join us at one of our three services this weekend as we remember and recommit ourselves to peace.

Love and blessings,

Revd Grant

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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St. Stephen’s Quiz night

BOOK NOW - LAST FEW PLACES

Join us for a night of laughter and friendly competition at St. Stephen's on the 18th of November! Our highly anticipated quiz night promises to be an evening filled with brain-teasing questions, exciting rounds, and great food. Whether you're a trivia aficionado or just looking for a fun way to spend your evening, this event is perfect for everyone. Gather your friends and form a team, or join one on the night, as we test your knowledge on a range of topics. From history to pop culture, sports to movies, there's something for everyone.

Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable quiz night at St. Stephen's on the 18th of November!

Tickets are £15 per person which includes food.

Food is provided by Lemon Plaice fish and chip shop. Choices of: Fish and Chips, Sausage and Chips or Vegetarian option (select this when purchasing ticket). Teams of 6 people. Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm start. Cash Bar on the night. All in aid of St. Stephen’s Church. Click below for more info & to book.

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St. Bartholomew’s Fundraising Concert

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Upcoming in the villages

See all upcoming events on our website

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Services next Sunday 17th November

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It is with deep sadness we share the news of the deaths of three Basildon Parishioners.

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 5th November

Dear friends,

Over the next few weeks we enter a season of remembrance as we first commemorate All Soul’s, giving thanks to God for the people who have been part of our lives but are no longer with us. Then we have Remembrance Sunday too, giving thanks for those who gave their lives as a sacrifice for many. Even in these solemn occasions we remember that the Lord is our strength and shield and that abiding in him enables us to find unquenchable hope and raise our voices in praise.

Love and blessings

Grant

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SERVICEs THIS WEEK

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St. Stephen’s Quiz is Back!

Join us for a night of laughter and friendly competition at St. Stephen's on the 18th of November! Our highly anticipated quiz night promises to be an evening filled with brain-teasing questions, exciting rounds, and great food. Whether you're a trivia aficionado or just looking for a fun way to spend your evening, this event is perfect for everyone. Gather your friends and form a team, or join one on the night, as we test your knowledge on a range of topics. From history to pop culture, sports to movies, there's something for everyone.

Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable quiz night at St. Stephen's on the 18th of November!

Tickets are £15 per person which includes food.

Food is provided by Lemon Plaice fish and chip shop. Choices of: Fish and Chips, Sausage and Chips or Vegetarian option (select this when purchasing ticket). Teams of 6 people. Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm start. Cash Bar on the night. All in aid of St. Stephen’s Church. Click below for more info & to book.

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St. Bartholomew’s Fundraising Concert

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Upcoming in the villages

See all upcoming events on our website

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Services next Sunday 5th November

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 29th October

Dear friends,

Psalm 28:7 proclaims, "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him." These words resonate deeply, reminding us that in times of adversity, we can find solace in the Lord's strength and protection. As we trust wholeheartedly in Him, our burdens are alleviated, and we are fortified by His unfailing support. The psalmist's exultation portrays a joyful heart that cannot contain its praise for the Lord's steadfastness. It encourages us to find renewed hope, knowing that even in the most challenging circumstances, God remains faithful, empowering us to overcome and inspiring melodies of gratitude and adoration throughout each area of our lives.

Over the next few weeks we enter a season of remembrance as we first commemorate All Soul’s, giving thanks to God for the people who have been part of our lives but are no longer with us. Then we have Remembrance Sunday too, giving thanks for those who gave their lives as a sacrifice for many. Even in these solemn occasions we remember that the Lord is our strength and shield and that abiding in him enables us to find unquenchable hope and raise our voices in praise.

A reminder that this Sunday we join together for a whole benefice service - where all three of our churches gather as one. This time it will be 10am at St. Stephens followed by lots of yummy refreshments afterwards. We’d be absolutely delighted to see you on Sunday or any of our upcoming services.

Love and blessings

Grant

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SERVICEs THIS WEEK

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St. Stephen’s Quiz is Back!

Join us for a night of laughter and friendly competition at St. Stephen's on the 18th of November! Our highly anticipated quiz night promises to be an evening filled with brain-teasing questions, exciting rounds, and great food. Whether you're a trivia aficionado or just looking for a fun way to spend your evening, this event is perfect for everyone. Gather your friends and form a team, or join one on the night, as we test your knowledge on a range of topics. From history to pop culture, sports to movies, there's something for everyone.

Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable quiz night at St. Stephen's on the 18th of November!

Tickets are £15 per person which includes food.

Food is provided by Lemon Plaice fish and chip shop. Choices of: Fish and Chips, Sausage and Chips or Vegetarian option (select this when purchasing ticket). Teams of 6 people. Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm start. Cash Bar on the night. All in aid of St. Stephen’s Church. Click below for more info & to book.

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St. Bartholomew’s Fundraising Concert

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Upcoming in the villages

See all upcoming events on our website

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Services next Sunday 5th November

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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:

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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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

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This Wednesday: Ordination

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.

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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Upcoming in the villages

See all upcoming events on our website

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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:

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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.

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 8th October

Dear friends,

I rewatched one of my favourite talks this week called: Indescribable. It’s a wonderful talk about our God who put the stars in their place in the heavens. The speaker, Louie Giglio, uses science, telescope images and astronomy to shed light of the glory and power of God. And as I watched it inspired a little thought:
In our vast universe, we are but tiny specks of dust, floating on a small planet amidst countless galaxies. Yet, amidst this grandeur, there exists a force beyond our comprehension - the power of God. It is a power that can shape worlds, create life, and guide the course of history.
When we reflect upon the power of God, it humbles us and reminds us of our own limitations. We are bound by time and space, while God exists beyond those boundaries. His power is limitless, extending into every corner of existence, from the tiniest particle to the immeasurable expanse of the cosmos. God's power is evident in the beauty of creation. From the delicate petals of a flower to the breathtaking majesty of a mountain range, it is impossible to deny the hand of a divine artist at work. In the intricate details of nature, we witness the precision and care with which God has fashioned the world around us. Moreover, God's power is not confined to the physical realm. It transcends the boundaries of the earthly plane and permeates the depths of the human heart and soul. It is the power that breathes life into us, guiding us to our purpose and igniting our passions. It is a power that can heal our wounds, mend brokenness, and offer solace in times of despair. Yet, despite the enormity of His power, God's love and grace remain constant. His power is not wielded with callous disregard, but with gentle care. It is an invitation to embrace the divine and seek a personal relationship with the Creator of all things.
When we acknowledge the power of God, we are filled with awe and wonder. We recognize that there are forces at work far beyond our comprehension. It inspires us to seek spiritual nourishment, to commune with the divine, and to cultivate a sense of humility and gratitude.
In our journey through life, let us always strive to understand and embrace the power of God. Let it be a guiding light that illuminates our path, offering strength in times of weakness and hope in times of darkness. May we never forget that, in the face of an unfathomable power, it is through Jesus Christ that we are blessed to be recipients of God's love and grace.
May the peace and unconditional love of God be with you today and always.

Love

Grant

p.s - If you’re interested in science, stars, astronomy and faith, The Indescribable talk can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qh4HcVY2_KE

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A special gift for Jen’s ordination

(Last week to donate)

Our curate Jen Green will be ordained to the priesthood on 18th October at a very special service at St. Stephen’s, Upper Basildon at 4pm by the Bishop of Reading - (please do come if you are free!).

We have organised a gift for her 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.

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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Upcoming in the villages

See all upcoming events on our website

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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:

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Join us for morning prayer and worship

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 24th September, 2023

Dear friends,

I hope you are well. Firstly, I’d like to thank everybody who helped, served and supported the recent Open Gardens event in Basildon last weekend. Despite the awful weather at the beginning of the afternoon, it was on the whole a very successful event and lots of fun too!

This weekend we celebrate Harvest Festivals across our churches and we have a wide variety of activities going on. Firstly we’ll have a Harvest Holy Communion service at Ashampstead at 8.30am. Next there will be a 10am Family service with bacon butties at Basildon. We shall round off the weekend with a Harvest Evensong service at Aldworth, followed by apple pies and cider too - so a full Sunday of celebrations thanking the Lord for his goodness towards us. Please do come and join us.

At Harvest time we are always pleased to receive special donations of dry, long life and tinned foods, so that we can pass them on directly to refuge centres around our villages. Please either bring your gifts in advance of the services and leave them in the church, or bring your donations with you on Sunday and we’ll gratefully distribute them next week to well deserving centres local to us.

‘

Love and blessings,

Grant

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A special gift for Jen’s ordination

(2 weeks left to give)

Our curate Jen Green will be ordained to the priesthood on 18th October at a very special service at St. Stephen’s, Upper Basildon at 4pm by the Bishop of Reading - (please do come if you are free!).

We have organised a gift for her 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.

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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Upcoming in the villages

See all upcoming events on our website

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Services next Sunday 1St OCTOBER

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Join us for morning prayer and worship

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 17th September, 2023

Dear friends,

Now the Lord God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. The Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. A river watering the garden flowed from Eden; from there it was separated into four headwaters” (Genesis 2:8–10).

From this brief description, we note several things about the Garden of Eden: 1) it was planned and planted by God Himself; 2) it was mankind’s first home; 3) it contained incredible variety, with “all kinds of trees”; 4) it was a beautiful place, as the trees were “pleasing to the eye”; 5) it was a fertile, fruitful place; 6) it provided nourishment and nutrition, as the trees were “good for food”; and 7) it was well-watered.

The Vicarage garden is not any of these things. We are not quite as good in the garden as some of the previous occupiers.

However, we are very thankful for many green-fingered neighbours in Basildon who have been kind enough to agree to open up their gardens this Sunday 17th from 2pm-5pm for those of us who are inspired by nature to have a look around in an effort to raise some funds for St. Stephen’s. Please do consider coming out, finding some peace, tranquility and joy in many delightful gardens, enjoying delicious homemade teas, cakes and supporting the Church too.

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday!

Love,

Grant

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Thank you to all those who have agreed to open their gardens, make teas and cakes and gate-keep. We all at St. Stephen’s really appreciate your generosity.

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A special gift for Jen’s ordination

Our curate Jen Green will be ordained to the priesthood on 18th October at a very special service at St. Stephen’s, Upper Basildon at 4pm by the Bishop of Reading - (please do come if you are free!).

We have organised a gift for her 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.

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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Upcoming in the villages

See all upcoming events on our website

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HArvest Festivals

As I am sure you’ll have seen, our wonderful local farmers have been very busy recently harvesting the fields. Some folks have been asking when we are celebrating Harvest this year and the answer is 24th September right across the whole benefice. We’ll have a celebration communion service at Ashampstead at 8.30am, followed by a Harvest themed bacon butty Sunday at Basildon. then we round the day off with a Harvest Evensong at Aldworth followed by homemade apple pies and local cider! I hope you can join us as we give thanks to God for his goodness and provision.

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Services next Sunday 24th September

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Join us for morning prayer and worship

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 3rd September, 2023

Dear friends,

Isaiah 26:4 says“Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord is a rock for all ages.”

In life, there are many things we should and can be unsure about — but God's love is not one of them. He never wavers, He is always there. If there is anyone we should put our faith in, it's the Lord. That’s what we’re doing across all our churches as we begin this new term and there’s lots going on so we continue to trust in the Lord as we restart lots of things:

Prayer and Worship on Monday, Wednesday and Friday begins again on Monday 4th.

Our Toddler group ‘Tiddlers’ begins again this Thursday 7th from 9.30.

We’re planning for Cafe St Stephen’s to be open every Monday alongside the community post office.

Naomi and I are launching The Blessing course at the vicarage over the next few weeks.

We have a brand new family communion service at St Stephen’s this Sunday with communion for all ages.

A little further ahead with have our open gardens event on 17th September and our harvest festivals all happening at the end of the month on 24th with something for everyone! So in all these events and activities we trust in the Lord for his goodness, provision and joy! Come and join us.

Love

Grant

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The Blessings Course

Discover how blessing releases the presence of God and freedom!

The Blessing's Course is a 7-week video based session which will be held at the Vicarage, Upper Basildon on Wednesday evenings beginning on 13th September for anyone in our Benefice. For more information contact Rev Grant 01491 671555 or grant@thebenefice.uk

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WE STILL NEED HEDGE HELP!

We are still looking for a green fingered hedge lover, or a group for a rota to share the load, with some free time and suitable equipment, to trim the Beech hedge behind the War Memorial, in the St. Stephen’s car park.

It is quite pricey to maintain if allowed to grow past its current manageable height. It would be good to have it cut back, anytime from now onwards. But, if you would prefer to donate towards its maintenance that would be appreciated too.

If you can help in any way, please let Jo Eley know.  Thank you.

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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across the villages

See all upcoming events on our website

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HArvest Festivals

As I am sure you’ll have seen, our wonderful local farmers have been very busy recently harvesting the fields. Some folks have been asking when we are celebrating Harvest this year and the answer is 24th September right across the whole benefice. We’ll have a celebration communion service at Ashampstead at 8.30am, followed by a Harvest themed bacon butty Sunday at Basildon. then we round the day off with a Harvest Evensong at Aldworth followed by homemade apple pies and local cider! I hope you can join us as we give thanks to God for his goodness and provision.

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Services next Sunday 10th September

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Join us for morning prayer and worship

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 27th August, 2023

Dear friends,

People often ask me where is a good place to start reading the Bible. My response is often “Any book, chapter 3, verse 16.” If they choose John, this works out really well for me. But there are many other books where you would find an encouragement from the Lord.

Ephesians 3:16 - I pray that from his glorious unlimited resources, He will empower you with inner strength through His Spirit.

Colossians 3:16 - Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

2 Thessalonians 3:16 - Now may the Lord of peace himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all.

2 Timothy 3:16 - All scripture is God breathed and profitable for teaching, for correction, and for training in righteousness.

Whatever you choose to read this week, I pray that you would be encouraged, blessed, and that you would know God’s love.

Love,

Grant

P.S. We still have space on the Blessings course starting on 13th September. If you would like to know more, or to sign up, please get in touch, or sign up below.

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are hedges your thing?

We are looking for a green fingered, hedge lover, with some free time and suitable equipment, to trim the Beech hedge behind the War Memorial, in the St. Stephen’s car park.  It is quite pricey to maintain if allowed to grow past its current manageable height. It would be good to have it cut back, anytime from now onwards. If you can help please let Jo Eley know.  Thank you.

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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across the villages

See all upcoming events on our website

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Services next Sunday 3rd September

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morning prayer and worship is now having a break for the summer.

The Guitar is away

Morning prayer and worship will pause for a few weeks. We look forward to seeing you all again in September.

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 20th August, 2023

Dear friends,

I hope you are well. Today I want to invite you to join Naomi and me at the Vicarage for an exciting new adventure as we explore what it means to bless.

Beginning in September Naomi and I will be hosting The Blessings Course at the vicarage on Wednesday evenings. The Blessings Course is intensely practical. Key themes we’ll explore are:

• THE GOD WHO BLESSES/ Grasping the goodness of God

• BEING BLESSED/ Our Personal Discovery of Foundational Truth

• CALLED TO BLESS/ The Priestly Role of Every Christian

• BLESSING/ The Person in Front of Me

• BLESSING/ The Land

• BLESSING/ Areas, Regions, Nations

• BLESSING/ A New Life and a New Community

By the end of the course you should expect to be more confident in your personal relationship with the Lord; enjoying the experience of his blessing on your life; and effective at blessing others through words as well as deeds.

If you are interested, please could you sign up below. If you’d like to know a little more please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Love

Grant

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are hedges your thing?

We are looking for a green fingered, hedge lover, with some free time and suitable equipment, to trim the Beech hedge behind the War Memorial, in the St. Stephen’s car park.  It is quite pricey to maintain if allowed to grow past its current manageable height. It would be good to have it cut back, anytime from now onwards. If you can help please let Jo Eley know.  Thank you.

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Saint Laurence is a church in the heart of Reading town centre with a unique vision for a whole community to reach unchurched young people. We have an exciting opportunity for a passionate and experienced youth worker and outreach lead to help us deliver our strategy and embody the church’s vision as we “live to see unchurched young people come to faith and be shaped as church together with them.”

To find out more about Saint Laurence, visit our website, stlreading.org To find out more about the role, watch our video

For a role profile and application form, go to stlreading.org/join-us

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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across the villages

See all upcoming events on our website

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Services next Sunday 27th August

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morning prayer and worship is now having a break for the summer.

The Guitar is away

Morning prayer and worship will pause for a few weeks. We look forward to seeing you all again in September.

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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