Search

Julie's Jottings for June

During the civic service to commemorate the Coronation of King Charles III last month, the children asked the whole congregation to write on a crown-shaped piece of card their hopes and prayers for the King.  Ninety-six people responded. This is how:
  16 people focused on peace and unity
  10 people focused on the environment and climate challenges
  14 people wanted the King to advocate for the disadvantaged
  13 hoped the King would promote and advise government to bring justice and equity
  13 were looking for him to be a good example in society by showing kindness and being Christ-like
  13 were hoping that the King will serve his people as he promised in the Coronation service
  4 expressly wanted him to listen and speak to people
  6 people hoped and prayed that he would be healthy and happy in his role as King (and enjoy his grandchildren)
  and 7 coloured in their crown. 
 
These responses reflect shared values and concerns. There is a desire for living together in concord and harmony, as well as for justice which empowers those who are disadvantaged and easily forgotten, so that they have a chance at fullness of life. Anxiety about the planet is also something which is widely felt.
 
In the Big Help Out, after the Coronation, many people were engaged in voluntary work in their community.  The hopes and aspirations for the King were matched by people’s own endeavours to build the kind of community we want to live in.
 
This month we will have some special activities at St Mary’s to which all are welcome.  Please join us if you can.  These include looking at Trinity from different perspectives, including a child’s eye view, on the first Sunday of the month. We celebrate new life when we welcome Sophie Thomas in Baptism, and once again we will be joining with the Free Church for an Open Space adventure, this time in the Churchyard at St Mary’s.   There will be a garden party in the vicarage garden, No. 12 Church Street, with cream teas and games to play.  There is also a Brass Band concert to look forward to.