Matins this morning was attended by some 30 people. The morning was grey and overcast with some sharp rain showers, which are welcome after such a long dry spell. We are celebrating the feast of our patron saint, our Lady Mary, and her re-birth into heaven. Our readings, as always at matins from the King James version, included a passage from Luke's Gospel. This somewhat difficult passage in which Jesus tells of the fire and division he will bring to the earth, was set in context by Father Stephen's sermon. These words immediately precede the journey up to Jerusalem and indicate some of the anxiety Jesus feels as he anticipates the events of holy week, showing his human nature. Father Stephen emphasised that out places in heaven have been purchased by Christ's Crucifixion and Resurrection, our place here on earth is to be better human beings especially within our relationships with other people.
No anthem today, an additional hymn was sung and the psalm set for the day was psalm 82.
Joanna played the Bach Toccata and Fugue in D at the end of the service.

God is Love

Joanna and Beryl playing duets for the Bishop Janet turnng pages

We dashed home through more welcome rain.