St James News
Dear St Michael's Friends,
Now that we're no longer so concerned that a pewsheet might carry infection, here is a chance to keep in touch, and also, by email, to update those who can't at present be with us. If you received this by email and would prefer not to receive further issues, please let Eleanor know. If you know people who haven't received this and might like to, please invite them to contact her. And if you want to tell people what is happening or what you hope to plan, put it in News From St Michael's!
A warm welcome to Fr Derek Mottershead SSC, who is kindly celebrating Mass for us this morning. Next Thursday and Sunday we shall be welcoming Fr Paul Matthias as celebrant. Both Fr Derek and Fr Paul are long-standing friends of St Michael's and have been most generous in offering their help during our interregnum. Let's give them every possible support.
Fr Neil and Elizabeth have sent a warm message of thanks for last Sunday's lunch and for our parting gift to them. They plan to use our cheque to buy patio furniture for their new house. We deeply appreciate all they have both done for us during their time at St Michael's, and wish them every happiness as they begin their new life in Downham Market. Grateful thanks to everyone who provided the food and help that made last Sunday an occasion to remember.
The Funeral Mass of Irene Horton – who is remembered with affection and thankfulness by the whole St Michael's family – will take place at St Michael's on August 22 at 11 am. Please pray for her soul, and for Sara, Alison and their family in their bereavement.
There's a Barbecue, plus Evensong and Benediction, starting at 3 pm on Sunday July 31 at our neighbouring Resolution parish of St Michael, Harbledown. Come along and meet people from other Resolution parishes – friendship, encouragement and a warm welcome await! £2 per person, BYO wine but soft drinks are provided. Please contact Karen Glithero (07969 404209) so that she has numbers. Could you offer a lift to a St Michael's friend?
The Richborough Family Festival at St Albans on August 13 - everyone is invited to share in this inspiring occasion. Solemn Mass in the Cathedral at 12 noon will be followed by a garden party in Bishop Norman's grounds – wine provided, bring your own picnic. A chance to experience the family love and solidarity of the Richborough group of parishes and to be refreshed in soul and body! The train journey to St Albans is easier than you might think – but if driving, could you offer a lift to a St Michael's friend?
PCC and Halls: While we have no vicar to chair our meetings, Paul Jones has kindly agreed to be our PCC Vice-Chairman. When a parish goes into interregnum, Churchwardens and PCC members have particular responsibilities, and James, Paul and the whole PCC would greatly appreciate your prayers. We urgently need someone to take charge of Hall bookings – a team of two would be ideal. Can you help?
Pop-up Afternoon Tea, August 20, organised by the Mothers' Union at St Peter's, Boughton Monchelsea. A pleasant outing and a lovely tea for a small charge – further details nearer the time.
READERS' LIST for August: Thank you, as always, dear readers, for your valued contribution to our worship. If unable to read on the day listed, please feel free to make an arrangement with another reader.
Sunday August 7th OT Catherine Garland NT Jessica O'Sullivan
Sunday August 14th OT Paul Jones, NT Margaret Gatehouse
Sunday August 21st OT Mike Trout, NT Ralph Baldock
Sunday August 28th OT Eta/Zangi, NT Katja Svarts