1st November 2024

Dear Friends,

It’s that time of the year again, when the clocks have just gone back, we’re getting darker evenings and we’re definitely reaching for the warm jumpers!  It’s November!   

On the 10th of November in our services in both Hutton and Locking we will remember those who have died in war.  Some in our two parishes remember family members and friends lost in battle or conflict, so it’s a particularly poignant time for them.  We’ll remember the cost paid by so many in the hope that a more just, compassionate and peaceful society would emerge.  

In the words of Mahatma Ghandi, “Peace is not something that you wish for.  It is something that you make, something that you do, something that you are, something that you give away.”  

If we truly want to honour those who have died in war, we can do no better than by building a more peaceful, loving world for the future.  Let us then pursue all that makes for peace and builds up our common life.  The peace of the Lord be always with you!  

 On Sunday 17th November, the Church of England marks National Safeguarding Sunday.  

At our joint benefice service in Locking, we’ll be expressing our commitment to our safeguarding responsibilities and to affirm that our safeguarding practices are grounded in the Bible.  

‘Thirtyone:eight’ is the safeguarding charity who supports the Church of England with safeguarding training,advice and practical support and I will be preaching on Proverbs 31:8 which inspired the name. For more details see:  https://thirtyoneeight.org 

At this service we’ll give thanks for our safeguarding officers, Marion and Dave, pray for them and give thanks for their dedication to this challenging work of mission, done on behalf of all of us.  If you have any questions or concerns about this, please don’t hesitate to let me know.    

With love and prayers, 

Larissa