How quickly we get used to a change of season. Summer is a fast fading memory and we are geared up to days getting shorter and the rain helps to complete the picture. We just carry on.
At St Andrew's, we are in the midst of a busy time. Last week, the Chronicle did a 'feature' on the forthcoming Country Fayre which is celebrating its 40th anniversary and which indeed has become a major community social event - whatever the weather - in our town of Biggleswade. Well, its here! On Saturday, 20th September, if you haven't picked up this newspaper in time, just follow the pedestrians to St Andrew's Church and grounds and hear the tinkle of fun and games and the chatter around the stalls and arena. There's plenty going on and if such events make your tummies rumble, there's barbeque stuff, bacon butties and creamy teas on offer alongside the entertainments. Have a wander around, visit craft stalls or choose local vegetables for sale, chat away or meet up with acquaintances. This year we are raising funds for two charities, the MS Trust and the Willow Foundation. The former is about ongoing work to ease multiple sclerosis and the latter concerns working with young adults with serious illnesses and providing them with a better quality of life. Remember that the Fayre isn't just about being outdoors because its worth visiting the church to view a special display which gives evidence and memorabilia for 40 years of putting on Country Fayres.
Last Sunday was Holy Cross Day and during our Parish Eucharist, Reverend Liz's homily concerned further 'takes' upon the significance of the Holy Cross, based in part on the readings for the day. The Cross was indeed a barbaric form of execution but Christians look upon not only a crucifix but also an empty cross - signifying resurrection and life over death - is a symbol of our salvation. When the Pharisee Nicodemus visits Jesus by night we read in John 3, a story full of layers of meaning. Again, an earlier reading refers to the snake as a punishment but ultimately, it becomes a source of healing. Is this looking ahead to the Cross? We all carry our own 'cross' but in so doing, we are truly alive. Despite local and global landscapes being gloomy at this time, we are required to learn what God requires of us as part of the mystery of Christian participation. The significance of Holy Cross Day is that Resurrection will triumph over Death.
Looking ahead, on Friday, 3rd October, from 7pm, the Friends of St Andrew's have invited their guest speaker, Reverend Canon Robert Sibson, a former incumbent of our church to join them and he will be talking about our Millennium Window which will include its inception, design and production, a quarter of a century on from its installation.
On Sunday, 21st September, at 11:30am, Team 2025 Mafambisa will give a feedback presentation in the Chapter House which will be about that life-changing experience, after Communion.