Tuesday 2nd November is All Souls Day, when we remember those we love but see no longer. So many have lost people they love during the pandemic, and the pandemic has meant that funerals have been small, with many not able to attend. If you have someone you would like to remember, St Mary's will be open all day, and you are warmly invited to come in and light a candle in memory. They don't need to … [Read more...]
Archives for October 2021
Rector’s letter 29th November
I had the most wonderful surprise this week, when the St Mary’s Embroiderers showed me two beautiful Baptism stoles they have made. I was bowled over by the creativity and skill they have brought to their work, and it will be a great joy to bless them at the 10am service on Sunday, and then to wear one for the first time on Sunday afternoon for a baptism. The Embroiderers are going to make a … [Read more...]
Rector’s letter 22nd October
On a very rainy day this week I visited Westfield Primary School to talk to Year 1 children about baptism. The skies opened as I walked down Hallgate and I was soaked by the time I got there - perhaps appropriately given the subject! We had a lovely time. I ‘baptised’ a doll called Minnie (the children chose the name) with some children acting as ‘Godparents’. We talked about the symbols of … [Read more...]
Rector’s letter 15th October
In the last couple of weeks I’ve been visiting Cottingham’s schools, meeting the head teachers and asking how what we as a church can do for them. I’ve been very warmly welcomed and one of the first fruits of those conversations is that Hallgate School will be coming to St Mary’s next week for their Harvest service. There are more plans in the offing, and this is a really welcome sign of new … [Read more...]
Rector’s letter 11th October
Over the last few days I've been planting spring bulbs in my garden. That’s such a hopeful autumn job. As I planted, I could look past the winter to come, and to the spring, when - if all goes well - they bulbs will come up and flower. In my mind’s eye, where now there are just patches of disturbed earth among the ivy and dead leaves, I see the garden transformed by anemones, fritillaries and … [Read more...]