Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 3rd March

Dear friends,

I hope you are having a great week so far.

Great is Thy Faithfulness, a beloved hymn among Christians, serves as a poignant reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness and goodness. The lyrics speak of God's constancy, mercy, and love that never fail, even in the midst of life's trials and uncertainties. This hymn has been a source of comfort and strength for generations of believers, grounding them in the assurance that God remains faithful through all circumstances. For Christians, Great is Thy Faithfulness reminds us that God's faithfulness is not dependent on our circumstances or feelings but is an intrinsic part of His character. In a world marked by change and unpredictability, this hymn points to the unchanging nature of God and His promises.

As Christians navigate the ups and downs of life, they can hold on to the truth encapsulated in this hymn: that God is faithful, His mercies are new every morning, and His love endures forever.

Love,

Revd Grant

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services This weekend

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Lent Group 2024

Rosemary and Jonathan invite you to a new small group at their house on Thursday evenings (more or less fortnightly).

We will be looking at Acts, reflecting on growing as a church, discovering some principles for following the Spirit’s call to put out into deep water.

Each session starts with a short video, then we will read and discuss the passage and pray together.

Where Sakura Upper Basildon RG8 8LU    

Start time 7:30pm

14th March Session 4 Acts 20:17-38 Being more like Christ

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Antiques RoadShow

Simon Jones FRICS, Managing Director of Jones and Jacob of Watlington, who have been in business since 1802, will conduct his one-man Antiques Road show. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

9th March 2024, 7-10pm

Tickets: £15 for one item to be valued,

additional items £5 each, subject to demand.

ENTRY ONLY £10 per person.

For advance purchase and more information, contact Clive Williams

Tel: 01491 67631 Mobile: 07974 314929

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Confirmation Service - 28th April 2024

Click on the photo to find out more about confirmations.

We are thrilled to announce an upcoming service of confirmation on the 28th of April at St. Stephen’s Church which will be for the whole benefice. This joyous occasion marks a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of people in our community. This marvellous service will be taken by Bishop Tim Wambunya, an Oxford Diocese Assistant Bishop.

If you or someone you know is exploring confirmation at this time, please get in touch with Revd Grant so we can discuss the service, preparation and arrangements.

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Can you help?

At the upcoming annual meeting, Mrs Jo Eley is intending to step down as Churchwarden for St. Stephen’s Upper Basildon. Jo has served the church and village magnificently during her tenure in this important role but now is time we seek her successor. If you or somebody you know would be interested in taking up this wonderful opportunity and would value a conversation with Jo or Rev Grant please do get in contact with us.

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What’s on this week..

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Services next week

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 25th February

Dear friends,

I hope you are having a great week so far.

We have recently upgraded our website and communications package, which means we are able to email you directly with the latest weekly newsletter, how exciting! This saves you from having to click through from our email to our website to get the latest news. We hope everything works as it should, but if you notice anything out of place this time do please let us know so we can rectify it for next week!

Last Sunday a few of us went on the first of our Lent walks around Aldworth. It was a beautiful walk full of laughter, and sunshine. We ended up in the church sharing tea and crumpets together. This week our Lent walk sets off from St. Clement’s, Ashampstead at 2pm on Sunday. If you are around and fancy a little meditative meander around our beautiful countryside, you are most welcome to join us.

Love,

Revd Grant

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services This weekend

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Lent Group 2024

Rosemary and Jonathan invite you to a new small group at their house on Thursday evenings (more or less fortnightly).

We will be looking at Acts, reflecting on growing as a church, discovering some principles for following the Spirit’s call to put out into deep water.

Each session starts with a short video, then we will read and discuss the passage and pray together.

Where Sakura Upper Basildon RG8 8LU    

Start time 7:30pm

22nd February Session 2 Acts 17:1-34 Different places, different ways

29th February Session 3 Acts 19:1-41 The church impacting society

14th March Session 4 Acts 20:17-38 Being more like Christ

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Antiques RoadShow

Simon Jones FRICS, Managing Director of Jones and Jacob of Watlington, who have been in business since 1802, will conduct his one-man Antiques Road show. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

9th March 2024, 7-10pm

Tickets: £15 for one item to be valued,

additional items £5 each, subject to demand.

ENTRY ONLY £10 per person.

For advance purchase and more information, contact Clive Williams

Tel: 01491 67631 Mobile: 07974 314929

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Confirmation Service - 28th April 2024

Click on the photo to find out more about confirmations.

We are thrilled to announce an upcoming service of confirmation on the 28th of April at St. Stephen’s Church which will be for the whole benefice. This joyous occasion marks a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of people in our community. This marvellous service will be taken by Bishop Tim Wambunya, an Oxford Diocese Assistant Bishop.

If you or someone you know is exploring confirmation at this time, please get in touch with Revd Grant so we can discuss the service, preparation and arrangements.

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What’s on this week..

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Services next week

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Weekly Newsletter, Beginning of Lent

Dear friends,

In Joel 2:12, the invitation to embark on a spiritual life is extended with gentle yet compelling words. The verse urges individuals to “return to the Lord with all their hearts, with fasting, weeping, and mourning”. This summons serves as a poignant reminder to reevaluate our spiritual journeys, and to seek a deeper connection with God. It underscores the significance of introspection, repentance, and spiritual mindfulness as integral components of leading a purposeful and meaningful life. Joel's message resonates as a timeless call to nourish our souls by finding God once again - and offers each of us an opportunity to pause, reflect, and embrace our own spiritual existence. The season of Lent is a perfect opportunity to deepen our spiritual practices and across our lovely villages we have plenty of exciting events throughout Lent - all of which are listed below and we’d love you to join us. It all starts tomorrow on Ash Wednesday with the service at St. Mary’s where we will offer the traditional marking of foreheads with Ash. So you are very warmly invited to join us as we return to the Lord together.

Love,

Revd Grant

Ash Wednesday service

St. Mary’s Aldworth. 7pm 14th February

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upcoming services

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Lent Group 2024

Rosemary and Jonathan invite you to a new small group at their house on Thursday evenings (more or less fortnightly).

We will be looking at Acts, reflecting on growing as a church, discovering some principles for following the Spirit’s call to put out into deep water.

Each session starts with a short video, then we will read and discuss the passage and pray together.

Where Sakura Upper Basildon RG8 8LU    

Start time 7:30pm

22nd February Session 2 Acts 17:1-34 Different places, different ways

29th February Session 3 Acts 19:1-41 The church impacting society

14th March Session 4 Acts 20:17-38 Being more like Christ

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Comes to St. Stephen’s, Upper Basildon

SATURDAY  9th March 2024, 7-10pm

Simon Jones FRICS, Managing Director of Jones and Jacob of Watlington, who have been in business since 1802, will conduct his one-man Antiques Road show. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Tickets: £15 for one item to be valued,

additional items £5 each, subject to demand.

ENTRY ONLY £10 per person.

For advance purchase and more information, contact Clive Williams

Tel: 01491 67631 Mobile: 07974 314929 Email: clivewilliams@gmx.co.uk

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Confirmation Service - 28th April 2024

Click on the photo to find out more about confirmations.

We are thrilled to announce an upcoming service of confirmation on the 28th of April at St. Stephen’s Church which will be for the whole benefice. This joyous occasion marks a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of people in our community. This marvellous service will be taken by Bishop Tim Wambunya, an Oxford Diocese Assistant Bishop.

If you or someone you know is exploring confirmation at this time, please get in touch with Revd Grant so we can discuss the service, preparation and arrangements.

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Services next week

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 4th February

Dear friends,

Here in Basildon, Aldworth and Ashampstead, our doors are open to all, regardless of background or beliefs. We believe that the message of Christ is for everyone, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where all can feel at home and safe to explore the boundless goodness of God. Whether you're seeking spiritual guidance and encounter, a sense of community, or simply a place to explore your faith, there's a place for you to feel at home. Across the villages we host a wide range of service styles and times from more traditional using prayer books, to modern ones with praise songs. We invite you to join this weekend as we come together in fellowship and worship together.

Love,

Revd Grant

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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Lent Group 2024

Rosemary and Jonathan invite you to a new small group at their house on Thursday evenings (more or less fortnightly).

We will be looking at Acts, reflecting on growing as a church, discovering some principles for following the Spirit’s call to put out into deep water.

Each session starts with a short video, then we will read and discuss the passage and pray together.

Where Sakura Upper Basildon RG8 8LU    

Start time 7:30pm

8th February Session 1 Acts 16:6-34 “Put out into deep water and let your nets down for a catch”

22nd February Session 2 Acts 17:1-34 Different places, different ways

29th February Session 3 Acts 19:1-41 The church impacting society

14th March Session 4 Acts 20:17-38 Being more like Christ

---

Comes to St. Stephen’s, Upper Basildon

SATURDAY  9th March 2024, 7-10pm

Simon Jones FRICS, Managing Director of Jones and Jacob of Watlington, who have been in business since 1802, will conduct his one-man Antiques Road show. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Tickets: £15 for one item to be valued,

additional items £5 each, subject to demand.

ENTRY ONLY £10 per person.

For advance purchase and more information, contact CLIVE WILLIAMS

Tel: 01491 67631 Mobile: 07974 314929 Email: clivewilliams@gmx.co.uk

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Confirmation Service - 28th April 2024

Click on the photo to find out more about confirmations.

We are thrilled to announce an upcoming service of confirmation on the 28th of April at St. Stephen’s Church which will be for the whole benefice. This joyous occasion marks a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of people in our community. This marvellous service will be taken by Bishop Tim Wambunya, an Oxford Diocese Assistant Bishop.

If you or someone you know is exploring confirmation at this time, please get in touch with Revd Grant so we can discuss the service, preparation and arrangements.

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mike’s new book!

Last year, W M Henry and Michael Penny agreed to write a book on Christian Unity.

The book – Unity in Christ – has just been published.

You can see details of the book on The Open Bible Trust’s website – www.obt.org.uk

It costs £6.45 and can be ordered from that website or directly from:

The Open Bible Trust, Fordland Mount, Upper Basildon, Reading, RG8 8LU.

To pay by card, please order from the website, or phone 01491-671357

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Services next week

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 28th January

Dear friends,

Here in Basildon, Aldworth and Ashampstead, our doors are open to all, regardless of background or beliefs. We believe that the message of Christ is for everyone, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where all can feel at home and safe to explore the boundless goodness of God. Whether you're seeking spiritual guidance and encounter, a sense of community, or simply a place to explore your faith, there's a place for you to feel at home. Across the villages we host a wide range of service styles and times from more traditional using prayer books, to modern ones with praise songs. We invite you to join this weekend as we come together in fellowship and worship together.

Love,

Revd Grant

---

SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

---

Lent Group 2024

Rosemary and Jonathan invite you to a new small group at their house on Thursday evenings (more or less fortnightly).

We will be looking at Acts, reflecting on growing as a church, discovering some principles for following the Spirit’s call to put out into deep water.

Each session starts with a short video, then we will read and discuss the passage and pray together.

Where Sakura Upper Basildon RG8 8LU    

Start time 7:30pm

8th February Session 1 Acts 16:6-34 “Put out into deep water and let your nets down for a catch”

22nd February Session 2 Acts 17:1-34 Different places, different ways

29th February Session 3 Acts 19:1-41 The church impacting society

14th March Session 4 Acts 20:17-38 Being more like Christ

---

Confirmation Service - 28th April 2024

Click on the photo to find out more about confirmations.

We are thrilled to announce an upcoming service of confirmation on the 28th of April at St. Stephen’s Church which will be for the whole benefice. This joyous occasion marks a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of people in our community. This marvellous service will be taken by Bishop Tim Wambunya, an Oxford Diocese Assistant Bishop.

If you or someone you know is exploring confirmation at this time, please get in touch with Revd Grant so we can discuss the service, preparation and arrangements.

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Books for Dolly

An invitation from Alison & Charlie Laing:

Happy New Year! We hope you can join us again to raise money for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Specifically, the money we raise goes towards helping looked after children in West Berkshire; children enrolled on this amazing programme receive a book every month between the age of 0 and 5 years old. For more information see imaginationlibrary.com Helen from Imagination Library will be with us too.

RSVP helpful for numbers. Do come and browse; chat; eat croissants; talk books and see if we can tempt you to some wonderful reading material - all genres from the daft; the delightful and the must reads. We have books for all ages - fiction and non-fiction.

scramlaing@hotmail.com - Alison (mobile): 07702 702554

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mike’s new book!

Last year, W M Henry and Michael Penny agreed to write a book on Christian Unity.

The book – Unity in Christ – has just been published.

You can see details of the book on The Open Bible Trust’s website – www.obt.org.uk

It costs £6.45 and can be ordered from that website or directly from:

The Open Bible Trust, Fordland Mount, Upper Basildon, Reading, RG8 8LU.

To pay by card, please order from the website, or phone 01491-671357

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Services next week

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 21st January

Dear friends,

In our services this weekend we will delve into the Gospel of John, chapter 2, and uncover the extraordinary account of Jesus's first public miracle, at the wedding in Cana. Who doesn’t love a good wedding! Who else is longing for a miracle? This captivating story not only reveals Jesus's nature but also showcases his compassion and ability to bring joy to those around him. Through this miraculous event, we witness the transformative power of Jesus's presence and his boundless capacity for grace. As Spurgeon once said, “A little faith will bring your soul to heaven, a great faith will bring heaven to your soul!” So, come and explore with us the depths of this remarkable account and encounter the profound impact of the risen Lord Jesus for each of us today!

Love,

Revd Grant

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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Confirmation Service - 28th April 2024

Exciting Service of Confirmation!
We are thrilled to announce an upcoming service of confirmation on the 28th of April at St. Stephen’s Church which will be for the whole benefice. This joyous occasion marks a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of people in our community. Those who have been baptised as children, or those who have come to faith a little later in life and who are now ready to make a commitment to the Lord of their own accord are invited to join in this marvellous service which will be taken by Bishop Tim Wambunya, an Oxford Diocese Assistant Bishop.

If you or someone you know is ready to take this meaningful step, please get in touch with Revd Grant so we can discuss the service, preparation and arrangements. Let us also pray for all those seeking confirmation, as they embrace their faith with open hearts and steadfast devotion.

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Books for Dolly

An invitation from Alison & Charlie Laing:

Happy New Year! We hope you can join us again to raise money for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Specifically, the money we raise goes towards helping looked after children in West Berkshire; children enrolled on this amazing programme receive a book every month between the age of 0 and 5 years old. For more information see imaginationlibrary.com Helen from Imagination Library will be with us too.

RSVP helpful for numbers. Do come and browse; chat; eat croissants; talk books and see if we can tempt you to some wonderful reading material - all genres from the daft; the delightful and the must reads. We have books for all ages - fiction and non-fiction.

scramlaing@hotmail.com - Alison (mobile): 07702 702554

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mike’s new book!

This week is the start of ‘The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity’.

And last year W M Henry and Michael Penny agreed to write a book on Christian Unity.

The book – Unity in Christ – has just been published and it coincides with this special week.

You can see details of the book on The Open Bible Trust’s website – www.obt.org.uk

It costs £6.45 and can be ordered from that website or directly from:

The Open Bible Trust, Fordland Mount, Upper Basildon, Reading, RG8 8LU.

To pay by card, please order from the website, or phone 01491-671357

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Services next week

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 14th January

Dear friends,

Happy New Year! As we embark on the journey of a new year, let me encourage you to consider diving into the wisdom and guidance offered by the Bible. A Bible that is well read and falling apart, often means its owner is not. Regardless of one's religious beliefs, the Bible contains invaluable lessons in love, compassion, forgiveness, and perseverance. It’s stories and teachings have inspired and guided people for centuries, offering solace in times of uncertainty and joy in times of celebration. Exploring the pages of the Bible can provide a sense of connection to something greater than ourselves, infuse our lives with deeper meaning, and offer profound insights to help navigate the complexities of the world. So, as we step into this new year, let's embrace the opportunity to seek wisdom and inspiration from the scriptures.

Haven’t got a copy? Please let me know, I would love to gift you one.

Try free copy of Our Daily Bread - a daily devotional here: https://odb.org/subscription/uk/

Need an app for on-the-go reading? Try the free Bible in one year : https://bible.alpha.org/en/#start

So Happy New Year, and may this year be filled with peace, love, and spiritual growth for all of us.

Love,

Revd Grant

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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Confirmation Service - 28th April 2024

Exciting Service of Confirmation!
We are thrilled to announce an upcoming service of confirmation on the 28th of April at St. Stephen’s Church which will be for the whole benefice. This joyous occasion marks a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of people in our community. Those who have been baptised as children, or those who have come to faith a little later in life and who are now ready to make a commitment to the Lord of their own accord are invited to join in this marvellous service which will be taken by Bishop Tim Wambunya, an Oxford Diocese Assistant Bishop.

If you or someone you know is ready to take this meaningful step, please get in touch with Revd Grant so we can discuss the service, preparation and arrangements. Let us also pray for all those seeking confirmation, as they embrace their faith with open hearts and steadfast devotion.

---

Books for Dolly

An invitation from Alison & Charlie Laing -

Happy New Year! We hope you can join us again to raise money for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Specifically, the money we raise goes towards helping looked after children in West Berkshire; children enrolled on this amazing programme receive a book every month between the age of 0 and 5 years old. For more information see imaginationlibrary.com Helen from Imagination Library will be with us too.

RSVP helpful for numbers. Do come and browse; chat; eat croissants; talk books and see if we can tempt you to some wonderful reading material - all genres from the daft; the delightful and the must reads. We have books for all ages - fiction and non-fiction.

scramlaing@hotmail.com - Alison (mobile): 07702 702554

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Services next week

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 17th December

Dear friends,

Well, we’re nearly there, aren’t we? Parties are happening, end of term events organised, presents bought - if not wrapped. Christmas is a time of joyous celebration, and yet amidst the hustle and bustle we are reminded that it is in Jesus that true joy can be found. As we gather with loved ones and exchange gifts, it is the birth of Jesus that reminds us of the greatest gift ever given to humanity. In the humble manger, we see God's love personified, and in the story of his life, we find hope, peace, and redemption. Jesus teaches us to love unconditionally and to extend kindness to all. As we reflect on his teachings during this Christmas season, our hearts are filled with a joy that surpasses all worldly pleasures. In Jesus, we find a deep, abiding joy that brings us comfort, strengthens our faith, and unifies our hearts. He is the true reason for the season, and in him, we discover everlasting joy that transcends the material and connects us to something greater.

Why not come and join one of our carol or Christmas services this year and experience a little bit of God’s ‘Joy to the world’ too!

Love,

Revd Grant

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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Aldworth Saturday Market

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Services next week

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 3rd December

Dear friends,

Advent is a time of anticipation and preparation, it offers solace and hope amidst a world brimming with bad news. As we step into this sacred season, we have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the true essence of advent, more than just a chocolate each morning in our advent calendars!

Rather than succumbing to the weight of negativity in the world around us, we can choose to focus on the ultimate good news: Jesus. By seeking a deeper understanding of his teachings and embodying his example of love and compassion, we can truly enter into the spirit of advent as we prepare to celebrate Jesus’ birth at Christmas. As we reflect on the birth of Christ, let us rally around the unyielding hope and love he brings, transforming our perspectives and illuminating the path ahead.

You are so welcome to join us this Advent as we journey as a community towards the hope and joy of Jesus.

Revd Grant

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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St. Bartholomew’s Fundraising Concert

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Services next week

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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Weekly Newsletter, Sunday 19th December

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

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SERVICEs THIS WEEKend

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St. Bartholomew’s Fundraising Concert

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Upcoming in the villages

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Services next Sunday 3rd december

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In memoriam

It is with deep sadness we share the news of the deaths of three Basildon Parishioners. Their memorial and funeral service details are listed here for all those who would like to attend their services.

May they rest in peace and rise in glory.

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LAtest episode of our Podcast

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