Another glorious summer's morning for our service today. We had Mattins as it is the third Sunday in July. Father Stephen took the service and the readings were from Amos and St Mark's Gospel. The latter telling the story of St John the Baptist and his death at the request of Salome. It was this well known story that Father Stephen talked about in his sermon. John was superseded by Jesus, and his disciples joined those following Jesus. John had been outspoken in his criticism of Herod, because he married his sister in law, and lived a dissolute life. It was his stepdaughter, Salome , who asked for John's head, and conveniently ended the stream of criticism. John shows us an example of one who spoke the truth and followed the way to God.
The choir sang the Benedictus in C major by C V Stanford and also as the Anthem Jesu joy of man's desiring by JS Bach.

We continue to prepare for the fete, and all contributions ahead of time can be left with Janet Harland at Russetts. Books, bottles, toys, clothing in good condition, jam jars, both filled and empty! all gratefully received