On 10th May, it was the Sixth Sunday of Easter and the Readings for the 10am Parish Eucharist were as follows: Acts 17. 22-31 (Paul in Athens), 1.Peter 3. 13-22 (suffering for doing right)), and the gospel of John 14. 15-21 (the promise of the Holy Spirit). The homily was presented by Reverend Liz and this was based upon the gospel reading and in summary, the constant love and care of God is always with us, both in good times and when we are challenged.
As far as St Andrew's Church was concerned, it was also APCM Sunday, our annual report to the church family about our present situation as a worshipping and inclusive community. This occasion began at about 11:45am and the meeting covered about one and a half hours. Some might call the Annual Parochial Church Meeting as our yearly 'health check'. A lot of preparation had gone into this important event and prior to the day in question, a lot of printing had taken place, in particular, a 50 page booklet which contained 48 different reports of the multifarious activities that take place and for which someone or some people are responsible throughout the year, since May last 2025. Some of these people are perhaps more 'high profile' than some others who just work on 'behind the scenes'. Inside the booklet, we can read about a wide variety of goings-on, from Deanery Synod to Social Media and from Eco Church to New Daylight and much more besides. This meeting was the time to say Thank You to all such people and also the newcomers and those who come to share in worship year in and year out. Of course, the APCM is when we elect new officers, both for the Parochial Church Council and this year, two churchwardens. The notice board will give names and details shortly. There is a protocol to follow and the Agenda follows a series of topics and time for questions and answers is built into the whole programme. One of the central features comes from the Treasurer who in his professional way, did not lose us with figures but as is his style, he took us through the intricate sources of finance, donations and expenditure, in a clear and compassionate way. The conclusion of all this was that the church was not in an awful state at all but nonetheless we need to be realistic and the question of raising the necessary funds is always there. Sadly, we are soon to say goodbye to our skilled and dedicated 'guardian' of such finances but someone will step into the breach. The vicar's verbal report was as always heartfelt and the year that has passed has had its sadness as well as high points but Reverend Liz remained upbeat, ever mindful of the constant teamwork, by the grace of God, that goes on in mission and outreach and in all sorts of practical ways and much thanks was extended to everyone who plays a part. Finally, a big thank you was given to Nettie, our retiring churchwarden, for all her work over a long time.
As is often mentioned, all who wish to know what goes on at St Andrew's, can look at our church website as well as by reading our two outside notice boards and the foyer is plastered with well intentioned up to date detail. Some diary dates to finish: Sunday, 10am, 14th June: Confirmation, the Bishop of Bedford presiding. 18th-21st August + 23rd August, Holiday Club. 19th September Country Fayre and 'coming your way' soon, 7pm, 20th June: Quiz Night plus bangers and mash. Never a dull moment.