Sunday 9th November
Remembrance Sunday
Sunday 9th November
10:15 am Benefice Sunday Worship via Zoom
10:45 am Remembrance Service at St Bartholomew's, Greens Norton
10:50 am Remembrance Service at St Lawrence, Towcester
2:30 pm Baptism at St Mary's, Easton Neston
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Our weekly news contains details of services for this and next weekend, as well as daily bible readings, prayer requests and notices for forthcoming events.
Looking ahead to events and services that are happening please do look at the monthly calendar for November
Copies are available in churches for collecting especially for those who do not have emails.
Dear friends,
This weekend we gather for Remembrance, not to glorify war but to remember its cost and to recommit ourselves to peace; to remember that every poppy represents a person, every silence holds a story, and that behind every act of courage lies loss, longing and love.
Perhaps this year, more than most, I find myself holding that mixture of grief and gratitude in many parts of life, in the funerals we have prepared, the struggles we have shared, and the moments of hope that still break through. At the clergy wellbeing day this week, we heard the sobering statistic that around 30% of clergy are living with clinical depression. It was both shocking and strangely reassuring to know that the weight many of us feel is not ours alone, and that faithfulness sometimes looks less like triumph and more like endurance.
In the midst of all this there have also been glimmers of light: honest conversations about the future of our diocese, creative thinking about children and families work, students at Sponne calling out my name in the corridor with an air of joy, and profound conversations about music that helped us notice God in unexpected lyrics. Even in chaos there is the gentle reminder that grace does not wait for everything to be perfectly planned.
Remembrance is not only about looking back; it is about looking forward, daring to dream, as St Francis might say, of a world shaped by peace, justice and love. And maybe that begins right where we are, one prayer, one act of kindness, one moment of courage at a time.
As we continue our focus on discipleship, our Bible study begins again this Tuesday evening at 7:30pm in Chantry House. We will be exploring Matthew’s Gospel, the story of Jesus told with deep roots in promise and purpose. It is not just about learning faith but living faith in everyday life, rooted in the command of Jesus to love God and love our neighbour.
This coming week also sees our Benefice PCC meetings, times to share, plan and pray together for the life of our churches. So much of what we do could not happen without the dedication, generosity and care of our volunteers and church officers. From those who manage finances and fabric to those who welcome, read, serve, sing, clean and make coffee, thank you. You are the heartbeat of our shared ministry and community life.
We are also preparing for our Christmas Day Lunch Packs, a simple way to share love and connection with those who may be on their own this Christmas. Each pack includes a Christmas meal and festive treats delivered to their door. If you know someone who would appreciate a pack, or if you can offer help with donations, please contact the Benefice Office. We already have lots of offers to help with deliveries and to make the packs up, so thank you to everyone who is getting involved.
So if this week feels heavy, take heart. God remembers you too.
With my prayers
Revd Paula Challen
Rector
The annual Explore Day is an information occasion for those who feel God may be inviting them to serve. It is open to everyone and is an opportunity to hear from people who have gone into new opportunities to serve God, Church and community and have the opportunity to meet others who are also wondering what God is inviting them to next.
Bishop Debbie has recorded a video inviting people Explore Day. Watch the video here.
https://www.peterborough-
Forthcoming Events
Worship for this coming week
Lectionary Readings: (these links will take you to Bible Gateway from the NRSV):
Micah 4: 1 – 5 John 15: 9 – 17
This week's Reflection by Revd Greg Roberts entitled "Remembrance Sunday Reflection"
Zoom Services:
The meeting rooms are opened approx. 15mins before the service is due to start. All the liturgy for the service will be displayed on the screen.
- Sunday 10:15 am Benefice Sunday Worship
- Monday to Saturday 9:00 am Morning Prayer (except on the first Tuesday of each month)
Benefice Office Hours
Monday to Friday
9:30 am to 1:00 pm
01327 350459
tovebeneficeoffice@gmail.com
Key Ministry Team Contacts
The Rev'd Paula Challen (Rector) rector.tovebenefice@gmail.com
The Rev'd Greg Roberts (Associate Priest) TheRevdGregRoberts@
The Rev'd Nigel Clent (Assistant Curate) tovecurate@gmail.com
Sarah Barnett (Children and Families Leader) tovefamilies@gmail.com
