During this heatwave weather, life at St Andrew's goes on as elsewhere. The buildings and grounds look a picture in the sunlight and Spring greenery and the temporary 'infliction' of safeguarding structures both within and without, is a reminder that we keep the church and its grounds as tidy and as safe as we can. The current team of people under contract to seal our north aisle roofing and to carry out repairs to the clerestory windows on that side, are doing a great job and last Sunday, Reverend Liz expressed her thanks and appreciation for their work which continues most punctually. Life goes on.
On 24th May, it was Whitsunday, more widely known as Pentecost, and despite the presence of ladders and scaffolding, the congregation listened to the vicar's upbeat homily concerning the 'Birthday of the whole Christian Church', marking Pentecost as not just an historical event which came and went but as an ongoing Feast in the church calendar. The coming of the Holy Spirit continues for us too. God is everywhere; we cannot confine the Almighty to being domesticated and perhaps as existing within a cake tin! John - that much loved disciple - records for us in his gospel the Pentecost experience. After the Ascension of Christ, about 120 early disciples kept a low profile in an upper room in Jerusalem, in a state of fear and confusion. How could they carry on without Jesus? The story of the coming of the Holy Spirit to them transformed them into action; they knew what Jesus wanted of them. We continue that task of faith because we too have the gift of the Holy Spirit. This is not about uniformity but rather harmony. Each and every one of us is endowed with a gift to play a part in 'thy kingdom come'.
Now we come to current affairs: The results of our recent APCM are now known and published. Reverend Liz continues to chair the PCC. Nine members now constitute the new PCC and two act as members of Deanery Synod and we welcome two churchwardens. Two young new members of this year's Mafambisa Team from St Andrew's are being helped by some necessary fundraising, as follows: Sunday, 31st May - school assembly songs, asking £5 entry plus raffle, tea and coffee. Saturday, 6th June: Car Wash - Donation requested £5, 10am to 12 noon. Saturday, 20th June - Quiz Night with Bangers and Mash. £12 per person for teams up to eight members.
Biggleswade in Boom: Judging begins in week of 6th July. If you wish to know more, contact the Eco Group in St Andrew's. Nick tells us that a New Water Butt, in memory of his father, Norman Gurney, has been installed on the south side of the church. Norman was a keen paricipant of the Buildings and Grounds Team.
Lots else is going on or is on the calendar. Look at our website or read the notices, particularly concerning our ever popular Holiday Club and the work and entertainments arranged by Mothers' Union.