Dear all,
Well it is still here but changing its shape day by day and often in contradictory ways. The pandemic, we are told, is moving into its potentially dangerous unlocking. It is, however , encouraging for the signs of re-opening to be happening. On the national front the churches have been told they may open for private prayer and funerals. The regulations surrounding that advice mean that we shall have to work out whether that is possible for our churches. It may be on a limited basis. There will be no announcements about public services until this month. Watch this space.
We think we will be safe to have a parish picnic and open air service at Lambourne on Sunday July 12th at 4.00pm on the field by the top carpark gate. All family groups will need to socially distance themselves and bring their own food. We will need to confirm this as we keep an eye on the news.
At Stapleford Abbotts we are hoping to do something similar in August. More details next month. We were able to have our belated plant sale at Stapleford on 6th June. All the correct pandemic procedures were in place but it was great to see the church grounds alive again and the efforts of our growers rewarded with a sell- out. Thanks to all who came and to those who made it possible.
In the meantime I was delighted to take part in the conga round Abridge. We are very grateful to the community for organising the garage jumble sale which is due to take place after I have sent this to the editors.
Lambourne Church is very grateful that we will receive money from the event. Work is soon due to start on the regular programme of repairs which are costly and without our flower festival income finance is very tight. So all contributions are so helpful.
As you know Lambourne’s all the 900th anniversary celebrations up to August have been postponed until 2021 but we still have t-shirts, polo shirts, tea towels and bags for sale. If you are interested please give us a ring.
One thing we hope is building up is a great bundle of acts of kindness happening throughout this pandemic. Once the church is open again we can then translate those acts into leaves for our tree of kindness. We were hoping for 900 but if everyone records all the kindnesses shown we will easily exceed that.
Abridge Cares and Stapleford Abbotts Welfare Trust are doing a great job but anyone is feeling in need of a chat do give me a ring. We do not want anyone to feel isolated.
Blessings.
Roger
1, The Poplars, Abridge, RM4 1BB
01992-815838 email:
