THE SECOND SUNDAY BEFORE ADVENT
15th November 2025
Greetings,
Tomorrow's gospel (Luke 21.5-19) is, on the face of it, an ominous text. Jesus is warning of violence, war and persecution to come. It's one of a number so-called apocalyptic texts. Through the ages these texts have generated much speculation of the when is it all going to happen? kind. My first thoughts are that it is happening and happens all the time. At PCC on Wednesday we decided to support charities, the Salisbury-Sudan Medical Link and Open Doors which seek to alleviate suffering caused by war and persecution of Christians. Closer to home, support for Dorset Cancer Care is a reminder of the many individual challenges that we face. In the epistle (2 Thessalonians 3.6-13) St. Paul urged his readers never to tire of doing good works. That's a very practical response to challenges be they spiritual, global, national or personal. It's easy to be dismayed but all we can, and must, do, is focus ourselves in the present moment trusting in the grace of God to provide. Resist speculation and take heart from those words of the great mystic Mother Julian of Norwich, all shall be well and every manner of thing shall be well.
The Pew Sheet is attached with readings and notices. I am also delighted to announce the appointment of Deborah Jefferys as Administrator/Rector's Assistant. Deborah has a wealth of experience in administrative matters and has a wide range of skills which will be a real benefit to us as a parish and a great help to me. She lives only yards away from the church and is able to work very flexibly. Deborah will have a base in the Vestry which this week has been decorated and refashioned as a dual purpose Vestry and Office. I'm sure you will enjoy getting to know her in due course.
Blessings,
Charles Booth
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