From the vicar’s pen October 2022
Church Fair – 8th October 12 – 4 pm
Due to the sad passing of Her Majesty The Queen, we decided to postpone the Church Fair from the 10th September to the 8th October. We hope to
see many of you at the fair. All are welcome!
The Queens’ faith shines hope I write this on the day after we heard the sad news of the passing away of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The global outpourings of praise for Queen Elizabeth testified to the love, affection and veneration in which she was held by millions. She embodied what is best in the British and in humanity; she ornamented herself not just with the magnificent Imperial State Crown, but also with humility and service to the nation.
It was her faith in God that shaped her ideas, values and aspirations, enabled her to endure her family troubles with stoicism and fortitude. It comforted her and enabled her to comfort others. No matter what our political and ideological leanings, we can enrich our lives and make them more fulfilling by drawing inspiration and strength from our beloved Queen’s faith in God.
In times like this we are inclined to ponder on life beyond this worldly life. We believe that the departed soul is now in a better place than we are; this is what offers us the hope of eternal life. Just as light shines brighter in darkness, faith shines brighter in grief. There is no need to be despondent about the inevitability of death. Queen Elizabeth lived a life full of ‘abundance and hope’; we can model ourselves on her.
In his eloquent and emotional address to the nation, King Charles III has vowed to serve with loyalty, respect, love and empathy ‘throughout the remaining time God grants’ him. His acknowledgement that it is God who grants us the years we live and reminds us all the source of our life. It is reassuring to be told by the new king that he shares his mother’s commitment to the church and to matters of faith. We are confident that King Charles III will reign in a manner worthy of his mother. We pray to God to give the new king the strength and wisdom to reign with dedication and devotion in the service of our great nation.
With my prayers and all good wishes,
Godfrey