The Rector Writes
Dear Friends,
Next month we shall be celebrating our Harvest Festival and I am very aware that this will be taking place at the same time that many people in Pakistan will be facing starvation, disease and death. I don’t think that we truly comprehend the scale of the disaster that is taking place in that country. The immediate problems in Pakistan however do highlight the issue of world poverty. When New Orleans flooded a few years ago there was of course great suffering and the government’s response was not all it should be, but the United States’ ability to throw money at the problem has meant that the degree of suffering was greatly reduced. This is not possible in Pakistan.
Is it right that we should be celebrating our harvest, celebrating our plenty, whilst millions of people in this world face starvation on a daily basis; should we be celebrating our relative wealth when so many people live in grinding poverty?
There are two Biblical passages that immediately come to mind. The first of these is Ecclesiastes. Ecclesiastes is a book that deals openly and honestly with living with faith in a broken world and chapter 3 reminds us “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” and that there is “a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance”
The second passage come from the gospels and the words of Jesus when a woman is criticised for wasting money by pouring a jar of expensive ointment over Jesus’ feet, Jesus reprimands them and says “You will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me”
Both readings reflect the need for balance. This is clearly reflected in our service of Nine Lessons and Carols for example. In the opening prayer we are reminded “And because this of all things would rejoice his heart, let us remember, in his name, the poor, the helpless, the cold, the hungry, and the oppressed.” In the same way we should celebrate harvest, giving thanks for all that we have received but remembering also that God’s desire is for all people to be able to share, rejoice and give thanks for the fruits of his creation.
With our Harvest I should hope there comes also a commitment to restore the balance; to seek justice even at the expense of us losing some of the wealth that we so often fritter away; to live more sustainably. Celebration is an important part of our lives but it exists within the context of balanced living and of concern all of God’s children.
Yours in His name,
Ian.For more thoughts, reflections and indiscretions click on my blog Rector's Ramblings
Doorway to...
In last month’s Magazine, Ian, in his “The Rector Writes” page, discusses, questions and encourages us to explore our faith. He said, “Unless we openly engage with our faith and how we put it into practice then we will never be challenged by it, and if we are never challenged by it we will never know the need to discover more about it”.
I couldn’t agree more and that is exactly what we try to do on Thursday evenings at “Doorway to ….”.
Since starting the original dedicated “Doorway” course three years ago it has evolved into “Doorway to….” and now uses material from a wide range of books and DVD’s as well as some of the original “Doorway” material.
Thursdays will see around a dozen of us exploring the topic for the evening, the questions it raises and how it relates to us and our faith today. We often go off at tangents and then, eventually! come back on track. Sometimes our discussions may become intense but we all respect each other and the sometimes differing viewpoints we hold.
I can’t remember what I did on Thursday evenings before “Doorway” now I can’t imagine Thursday evenings without “Doorway to ….”. I’ve learnt so much and really value and enjoy exploring my faith amongst friends. You can too if you join us on Thursdays.
“Doorway to ….” starts again on September 9th at 7.45 p.m. in the School and look out for the notices and flyers in the pews. Alternatively speak to either David Bleakley or myself (phone numbers are on the back cover).John Grainger
Blagovest
We were very fortunate to welcome the St. Petersburg Blagovest Ensemble three years ago and finally they are back in the UK. Whether singing a sacred, Russian Orthodox, hymn or a cheeky folk song the singing is always heartfelt, beautiful and of the highest quality. If you missed them last time don’t make the same mistake again, and you will see why we are so excited to have them back.
St. Petersburg Blagovest Ensemble
Wednesday 8th September 7.30 p.m.
Tickets £10 inc. refreshmentsBellringers' Outing
To ensure that everyone is served lunch within the time available and we don’t end up in the situation we did a few years ago, this year’s pub has requested that we now also pre-order the dessert, which will all be cold and served with or without cream. Can you please let me have your choice from a) Apple Pie b) Cheesecake – possibly blackcurrant or c) Gateaux – possibly coffee. Let me have your choice asap.
This year we have an 79 seat double decker (the largest available and the biggest yet), seating 57 upstairs and 22 downstairs. Every seat is sold, in fact this year’s outing completely sold out within two days of the itineraries being sent out! Seating on the coach is on a first come-first served basis but, although the view is much better upstairs, I am reserving seats downstairs for those who would like one.All that is then left is for you to turn up on the day and be seated, ready to leave at 8.45am prompt.
Phil Roberts
What Became Of The Red Shoes?
Flo’s attic is full of old junk…or is it? On a rainy day a curious child Ruby explores it, discovering forgotten treasures including an interesting pair of shoes. Her imagination is sparked and she embarks on a magical journey meeting a pirate, some animals and even has a trip into space!
‘What Became Of The Red Shoes’ was voted ‘Best Family Event’ at last year’s Buxton Fringe Festival. The co-writer and performer of the show Becky Little is putting on a performance specifically for St. Wilfrid’s. It is ideal for families and children of all ages. Tickets are on sale from the 12th September.What Became Of The Red Shoes
Sunday 17th October
The Victory Hall
3 p.m.
Tickets £5 Adults, £4.50 Concessions, £4 ChildrenBell Ringing
The bellringers will be holding an “Open Evening” on Tuesday 14th September, between 7.30pm and 9pm to allow anyone interested in seeing the bells and understanding how they are rung to come along.
As ever we are on the look out for new bellringers to boost our team, so if it’s something you’ve always fancied doing or maybe not even considered before, come along and have a go.Phil Roberts
Harvest Celebrations
The start of October brings with it our Harvest celebrations. Below you will find listed not just what is happening and when but also various appeals for help listed at the end of each item. Please respond positively and make this a time everyone can enjoy.
Church Flowers & Decorations - Thu. 9th Sept. & Fri. 1st Oct.There will be a meeting for all who would like to be involved in decorating the church with flowers for Harvest, on Thursday 9th September 10.45 a.m. at Philippa Mort's. If you are unsure where that is please ring Sue on 872687. If you wish to be involved but are unable to attend please sign the list of arrangements that will be on the church noticeboard from Sunday 12th September.
Harvest flower decorating is such a lovely activity to be involved with. Any flowers lovingly popped into a container make a wonderful display, along with fruit and vegetables. So please have a think about giving a helping hand this year and add your name to the list on the noticeboard when it goes up.
The decorations will be put in church from 9.30 a.m. on Friday 1st October. Both Philippa and myself are unavailable that day so I would be grateful if someone could volunteer to be responsible for opening and closing the church and checking that everything is in order when the arrangers leave. I would also be grateful for names of people who would be willing to water throughout the following week, to keep the flowers fresh for the Patronal Festival.
Harvest Supper - Friday 1st OctoberOur Harvest Supper will again take place at the Cricket Club and will follow the same pattern as the last couple of years. This is a fun occasion for adults and older children, although youngsters are also of course welcome. We know last year there were issues regarding sound and we shall be making alterations this year to ensure that everyone will be able to hear.
The evening will take the form of a traditional Hotpot Supper followed by a family quiz and even the odd game of Play Your Cards Right.
Tickets cost £10 adults and £5 children. They did sell out last year so please get in quick when they come on sale at the start of September.
Church Open Days - Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd
The church will be open for visitors, and for the receiving of Gift Day donations, on Saturday 2nd October between 10-4 and for visitors on Sunday 3rd October between 12-4. During these times refreshments will be served. Allowing our church to be open and welcoming to guests is an important part of our mission.
Distribution of Harvest Gifts - Monday 4thFor some time now it has been the tradition at St. Wilfrid’s to offer a gift of harvest flowers to the sick, housebound, lonely and grieving in the parish. We collect bouquets of flowers over the harvest weekend which are then distributed to those on the list put up in church. The flowers are distributed on the Monday so that they are still fresh.
Mobberley Association of Church Fellowships
We had a very enjoyable afternoon in the company of Alice Butt as she took us on a journey to Canada and Alaska. She went via Banff and Jasper, among the beautiful Rocky Mountains and sailed to Scagway. She saw a little brown bear sitting on a rock, she saw eagles and actually went white-water rafting!! Alice had some lovely photographs which illustrated her very interesting talk.
Next Meeting
Wednesday 8th September
Speaker: Mr Brian Hallworth
“Down Forget-Me-Not Lane
Mobberley Methodist Church
2.30 p.m.Coffee Morning
In Aid Of MacMillan Cancer Support
Coffee Morning
Rajar Building
24th September 11 a.m. - 1.00 p.m.
A happy, fun morning meeting old friends and new.
A great way to spend the morning.
Coffee Tea Soft Drinks Scones Cakes Pastries
Raffle: Win a shopping spree at M&S
Sales Table with books, produce, Bric-a-Brac
Admission £1.50
(including Drink and Cake)Diary for September
Wed. 1st Said Holy Communion at the Rajar 10 a.m.
Coffee Morning at the Rajar 10.30 a.m.
Wedding Rehearsal 7 p.m.
Choir Practice 7.45 p.m.Thu. 2nd Faith & Worship Group 7.45 p.m.
Fri. 3rd Marriage of Smith & Pimblott 12.30 p.m.
Sat. 4th Marriage of Cummins & Trelour 2.30 p.m.
Sun. 5th The 14th Sunday after Trinity
Said Holy Communion (BCP) 8.30 a.m.
Sung Holy Communion (CW) 10 a.m.
Celebrating Wholeness & Healing 3 p.m.
Choral Evensong 6.30 p.m.Mon. 6th Funeral of Marion Leigh 11.30 a.m.
Tue. 7th Finance Committee 7.45 p.m.
Bell Ringing Practice 7.45 p.m.Wed. 8th Said Holy Communion at the Rajar 10 a.m.
Coffee Morning at the Rajar 10.30 a.m.
Burial of Ashes 11.30 a.m.
Funeral of Leonard Little 12 p.m.
Association of Church Fellowships
Concert by the St. Petersburg Blagovest Ensemble 7.30 p.m.Thu. 9th Doorway 7.45 p.m.
Sat. 11th Bellringers’ Outing 8.45 a.m.
Sun. 12th The 15th Sunday after Trinity
Said Holy Communion (BCP) 8.30 a.m.
All-Age Service 10 a.m.
Holy Baptism (Nina Harney) 12 p.m.
Choral Evensong (BCP) 6.30 p.m.Mon. 13th Friends of St. Wilfrid’s Committee 7.30 p.m.
Tue. 14th Bellringing Open Evening 7.30 p.m.
Wed. 15th Said Holy Communion at the Rajar 10 a.m.
Coffee Morning at the Rajar 10.30 a.m.
Choir Practice 7.45 p.m.Sun. 19th The 11th Sunday after Trinity
Said Holy Communion (BCP) 8.30 a.m.
Sung Holy Communion 10 a.m.
Holy Baptism (Oscar Prescott) 12 p.m.
Choral Evensong 6.30 p.m.Mon. 20th PCC Meeting 7.45 p.m.
Tue. 21st Matthew the Apostle
Said Holy Communion (BCP) 7 p.m.
Deanery Synod at Rostherne 7.30 p.m.
Bell Ringing Practice 7.45 p.m.Wed. 22nd Said Communion at the Rajar 10 a.m.
Coffee Morning 10.30 a.m.
Choir Practice 7.45 p.m.Thu. 23rd Wedding Rehearsal 7.30 p.m.
Doorway 7.45 p.m.Fri. 24th Coffee Morning in aid of MacMillan 11 a.m.
Sat. 25th Marriage of Buckley & Colley 3 p.m.
Sun. 26th The 17th Sunday after Trinity
Said Holy Communion (BCP) 8.30 a.m.
Choral Matins (BCP) 10 a.m.
Holy Baptism (Mia Collings) 12 p.m.
Choral Evensong (BCP) 6.30 p.m.Tue. 28th Bell Ringing Practice 7.45 p.m.
Wed. 29th St. Michael & All Angels
Said Holy Communion (BCP) 7 p.m.
Choir Practice 7.45 p.m.