Dear Friends,
Today is our Thanksgiving Sunday, the day on which we are invited to renew our financial commitment to the life and work of S. Michael’s Parish. We do this in thankfulness for God’s goodness towards us, and in response to our calling as baptised Christian people to share the Gospel and build up the community of God’s friends.
We can only be grateful that so many give so much for the running of the parish, as well as to other special appeals. Some of what we receive is passed on to support Church work in chaplaincies, missions and other special work. Giving according to our means is an expression of our commitment, and an expression of thankful response for all God’s goodness to us. It is wonderful when this giving is a glad part of our belonging to this community of faith. For new people who wish to begin such a commitment, this is your chance too. Remember Jesus’ words (Luke 6: 38): “Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.”
Today we are all invited to hand in our confidential giving card at the Offertory. It is good to do this, as the commitment we make is very much part of our thankful duty to God. The giving packs (if you haven’t got one, please ask) contain a letter from me and the Wardens, a confidential giving card, and a return envelope. If you wish to give by automatic payment, as many do, Judy Tait will contact you for appropriate details. If you need more time, you are welcome to return the card at any time.
Next Sunday the Church celebrates the Assumption of Our Lady. We know that all who live and die in Christ can expect to rise to new life with him. As we celebrate the death day of Mary who was the first to respond to the coming of Jesus Christ, we celebrate the promise of resurrection that is hers and ours. There will be the usual procession of Our Lady at the Sung Mass, and the Revd Carlie Hannah will preach at Evensong. And also next Sunday morning we shall baptise Gareth Sheard, grandson of Malcolm and Marjorie Griffiths.
May God bless you all.
Fr Peter Williams
Vestry Notes July Meeting
- Reappointed to the Parish Trust: Yvonne Pasea, Steve Woodside, Philip Richards
- 19 children at S. Michael’s School being prepared by Revd Lynne Horwood and Marla Hughes for Baptism and Welcome to Holy Communion
- Pre-Synod meeting attended by Synod Representatives
- John Graveston reported on the leadership camp he attended at Living Springs
- Contract for promoters holding concerts in the church has been prepared Thanks to parishioners who shared ideas on this
- Christchurch Art Gallery has provided digital copies of our watercolours by Mountfort and Raworth
