Sunday 16th February, 3rd Sunday before Lent (Septuagesima)

Dear Friends,

We are so glad you have joined us at the Priory today, the third Sunday before Lent (Septuagesima in the BCP). A reminder that Ash Wednesday is on 5th March.

If you are joining us for the 10.30am service do stay for coffee and biscuits and a chat in the north choir aisle afterwards. Marje Stanton-Hyde is leading the service and Tony Whalley is preaching. Tony writes: ‘Next Sunday Roger Latham will be installed as vicar of this parish (note, not just church but parish, with spiritual responsibility for the whole community). The task is huge and it is the church who will need to support him and work with him to deliver the love of God to all. The readings today give some pointers as to how we might do this. Luke gives a warning about extremes and advises a balanced approach but without compromise. In the Corinthians reading we see one of the theological issues which is dividing the church. Paul reminds them that their differing opinions should not be allowed to divert them from the truths that Jesus taught. For us, if we are to be of any help in spreading God's love, we, like the Corinthian church, need to be able to respect differing opinions and, in prayer, hear the words of Jesus saying again, "love one another as I have loved you”.’ 

As we come to the end of the vacancy we would like to express again our appreciation for the extra load our LLMs and retired clergy have taken on, not just in leading and presiding at our regular weekly services and at weddings and funerals but also for the pastoral support they have provided.

And so we look forward to Roger’s induction and installation. Our prayers go to Roger and Rachel as Roger embarks on the next stage of his ministry, and to all our Priory family as the next chapter in the Priory’s long history begins.

In His Love

Neil and David, churchwardens.