The first Sunday in a new month is usually a busy one for St Andrew's, having two services of corporate worship in the morning, usually followed later by a three course lunch in the Chapter House for those who have signed up and an evening service to complete the day. The 7th June was no exception, being the First Sunday after Trinity and there was a special 6pm Service of Deanery Evening Worship, this time at St Mary's Church, Potton.
During the first service of that day, namely the Said Order Two traditional Holy Communion, Reader Rosemary based her homily in part on the gospel reading for that day, namely, Matthew, 9. 9-13 and 18-26. These verses tell of Jesus' reaching out to those who were on the margins of conventional society at that time, making it clear to religious leaders that he knew where his ministry was mosr required and where we see that those who reached out for help were not ignored. Two instances were given, namely, Matthew himself, who was deemed to be a collaborator with the Romans and a lone woman, a long time sufferer with pain who demonstrated her simple faith and was thus instantly healed. The point was made that for us today, it is never too late to reach out to Christ with simple acts of kindness, including of course to those who are generally excluded and by trusting in the power of prayer. We are all called to be Christ-like.
On that particular Sunday, it was good to see the interior scaffolding removed; clearly the people who have been doing essential repairs have done a commendable job. This work has still be be totally completed and some extra deep cleaning is being carried out by volunteers. This coming Sunday, 14th June, the 10am Parish Eucharist will include a service of Confirmation led by Bishop Richard of Bedford and witnessed by the Church Family in attendance. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those being confirmed and to their families, loved ones and friends. Prior to this, on the day before, Saturday, 13th, between 10 and 12 noon, there is Coffee Shop in the Chapter House. Looking further ahead, on 20th June, at 7pm, there will be a Quiz Night with bangers and mash. More details maight be found on our website. 0n the 25th June, between 12 and 2pm, there is a Mothers' Union Ploughman's Lunch. On the same day, at 7:45pm, at St Peter's, there is Exploring Silence. In our foyer at St Andrew's, there is a notice about this, giving more details. On 17th June, at 7:30pm, there will be an East Beds Concert. The church website will give more information.