Praying on Sunday St Christopher’s Church Third Sunday of the month

11.30am.

Contributed by Frances Reincke

Following an idea from Elizabeth Copeman and devised by Richard Reincke nearly six years ago, a lay led service at St Christopher’s takes place every third Sunday of the month. This service is led by members of the Parish, such as Richard, Chris Lemar and Victoria Martin to name but a few of the many who help make this service such a success.

We usually sing two or three hymns, listen to two readings and a homily followed by intercession prayers. Liz Cook took the service one Trafalgar Day and the service had a naval theme; other Sundays we hear about a Saint whose Saint’s Day falls on that day. Every service is different with themes chosen by the leader. Before her death Vera Moorey was our organist, but now we use CD recordings and when technology fails, as it often does, we rely on Chris Lemar to lead us. Luckily with a regular congregation of over thirty we make a good noise!

Following the service, drinks and delicious canapes are shared and we have a bit of a party!

Elizabeth Copeman recently wrote to Richard about the service and her words describe it perfectly.

“I started by thinking what a lovely warm atmosphere there is and the eats and drinks after are great. You realise what an enormous number of us are widows, not to be recommended, but it is absolutely lovely to meet so many people who go to St C's and have become part of one's life and one's friends. I was thinking all this and then watched Countryfile this evening, it was at Bakewell where they still hold a very active farmer's market every Monday. It is exceedingly well supported, not only to buy and sell sheep and cattle, but as a way of meeting their friends, just as praying on Sunday is not only a religious event but also a social event.

I always enjoy the fellowship, so thank you so much for all the effort you put into it, long may you continue to do so, it is very much appreciated.”

Richard Reincke is always on the lookout for new people to take this service and anyone is welcome to stand up and lead us. Do come and join us to see for yourselves.

White Stole at St Christopher’s Church

If you come to St Christopher’s on Easter Day look out for this beautiful stole, given to St Christopher’s by Mary (Bunty) Tuke in 2010 in memory of her father. Originally it was given to her father, Cmdr The Reverend William Graves R.N. on the occasion of his ordination in Wells Cathedral in 1948, by Mabel the widow of the 6th Lord Blytheswood, Vicar of Stockcross near Newbury from 1931-1938.

Made in London in about 1905 for Lord Blytheswood it is of cream silk damask. The hand embroidered Roses of Sharon at either end are in a shaded peach/orange satin stitch, outlined in fine gold wire with centres of gold coloured thread with green leaves and stems in satin stitch.

It really is a beautiful piece of handwork and one of the many treasures we have at St Christopher’s.

Frances Reincke