The first woman at the baptism

Sunday 8th October 2017

In the sun outside the church door before the baptism  the baby's mother handed me this pretty packet, saying "I think this must be for you".  I was delighted to be the first woman that she saw on arrival at the church  --  which meant that according to local custom I received the little bag containing sugar, cake and coin!  (I forgot to ask what exactly they each represent.)  The baby slept peacefully throughout the service (including through four hymns), only murmuring approvingly at all the most holy moments.  He clearly matches his patron saint, Aidan.

After the Harvest Thanksgiving

Monday 25th September 2017

We hope that after the Harvest Thanksgiving service the church still looks attractive and that everyone feels welcome:

Not just a haven

Thursday 21st - Friday 22nd September 2017

On the strings hanging from the gazebo pupils could hang their "big questions".

 For these older children there were also reflections on people in need, especially hungry or homeless.  The cardboard box was supposed to be big enough for one child to crawl into.  I overheard these boys say it would be warmer and less lonely if two people shared the shelter.

Moving the Reflection space

Wednesday 20th September 2017

A helper preparing the Time for Reflection (as it moves to the Middle School) is caught in the mirror as she sets out the "Fizzy Forgiveness" materials.  Around the mirror are encouraging cards which tell a child looking in the mirror "You are special", "You can do it", "You belong", "God loves you"...



The children were amazed to find a normal classroom so transformed  --  and being allowed to rest in the "holy"  (that is, set apart) corner was a very popular non-activity.

Time for Reflection

Monday 18th - Tuesday 19th September 2017

The First School children were invited to spend time making models of things that made them happy for which they were grateful.  They could also stick autumn leaves onto paper and draw other beautiful things.

With help they could do up zips to bring together friends who had fallen out with each other or put fizzy tablets into water and forgive whoever had hurt them as they watched the tablets/hurt dissolving away.



Parish visiting

Wednesday 20th September 2017
    Amongst other calls, I made one to the vet in Bellingham to ask for advice about the dog  --  who then was booked in for an important appointment.  [Picture from Orchard House Facebook page]

Interval between the rain

Wednesday 13th September 2017

Near Hallington at the southern end of the deanery