My dear Friends.

I'd like to mention five things this month:

1. The Tsunami Disaster.
   In the Parish Magazine for Frbruary 2005 I have included a letter from the Bishop of Chelmsford, sent to all clergy for Epiphany 2005. All those who were caught up in those terrible events need our continuing prayers and financial support. Already we have sent £1000 but that is surely only the beginning.
2. Lent 2005.
   In 2003 it was on April 20th, in 2004 it was April 11th whereas this year it is March 27th. I refer, of course to Easter Day. Because Easter Day is early, so is Ash Wednesday and so Lent is almost upon us and I haven't yet decided what to do by way of a Lent Course. Last year we looked at 'Science and Christianity' and the course was well attended. Hopefully people found it helpful. As I write this I have a couple of possibilities which I must investigate but nothing is yet decided. Full details - subject, day, time and place will be published in our Newsletters available in church or do give me a ring nearer the time.
   For an article explaining Lent click here 
3. Church Jobs.
   In the July 2004 magazine I said that everyone who came to church in the following couple of weeks would be given a list of jobs that are important for the smooth and efficient running of our two churches. Some are occasional while others are on a regular basis. On the form I asked that individuals indicate what jobs they are currently doing and if they were happy to continue wit them. I suggested that for a few it might be your opportunity to consider giving up a job, either to take on another or to just reduce your workload. Then there was a section for the individual to indicate if they were interested in taking on a job for the first time. Forty people responded and I have looked at all the completed forms and am in the process of responding to what you have indicated. So thanks to all those who gave me their replies and don't think I have forgotten you!
4. Birthdays.
   In our newsletter given out in church we publish forthcoming birthdays and because the list hasn't been revised for some years it often includes people who have long left us or moved away. I am in the process of updating the list and the PCC has agreed to my suggestion that we include only those who are currently members of our two churches and (if able) do come to our church services. The idea is that I review each year (if I remember!)
5. Dates.
   
   Please do make a note of the following - I'd love to see you there! :
   Ash Wednesday - 9th Feb - 8pm Service at St Andrew's.
   Mothering Sunday - 6th March - Service times as usual.
   Maundy Thursday - 24th March - 8pm Service at St Peter's
   Good Friday - 25th March - 10.30 Family Service at St Peter's - 2-3pm at St Andrew's
   Easter Day - 27th March - Service times as usual
   Annual meeting of our two Churches - Sunday 24th April - 7pm at St Andrew's - Please, please do come!

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