November is a month for remembering. It begins with All Souls on the 2nd of November at 3pm, this year at
Creech. Here we take time to remember those who have died, giving thanks for their lives and the difference they made to ours. We also take a little time for ourselves, as part of our own journey of healing. A week later, on Remembrance Sunday, we stand together to honour those who gave their lives in war and to pray for peace in our world today.
The news has begun to speak of a possible peace plan for Gaza. By the time you read this, we hope that real and lasting peace will be taking root and that families there can begin to rebuild their lives. We continue to hold in prayer all who suffer through conflict, both in the Middle East and in Ukraine. It can feel a long way from Somerset, yet what we do here matters too. Each time we pray, each act of kindness or understanding, adds its weight to the work of peace.
Harvest was a real highlight this year. The celebration at Thornfalcon was full of life and warmth, and we were glad to welcome the Archdeacon, who spoke afterwards about how encouraged he was by the faith and life he saw in our parishes.
He praised the strong partnership between clergy and laity, the close links with our schools, and the genuine care we show for our communities. His visit reminded us that even in challenging times, there is much to celebrate and be thankful for.
Our breakfast service at Ruishton continues to grow, welcoming new people each month. There is something very special about sharing a simple meal, praying together and finding friendship across the table. Plans are also in hand to improve the sound system at St Michael’s so that everyone can feel included and take part fully in worship.
Small steps like these make a real difference and help to build up our life together.
As the year turns and the evenings draw in, Advent is on the horizon, with our three session course beginning on the 2nd of December. It will be a good chance to pause before Christmas and think again about hope, the kind of hope that keeps us steady and helps us see God at work even in ordinary life. More on that next month.
If you have not been for a while, this is a good time to come back. Church is not about being perfect or knowing everything. It is about being part of something bigger than ourselves, a place where we can find faith, friendship and purpose together.
Perhaps you could come and visit?
With all blessings
Lee