Clergy Article March 2023
This month we have moved a bit nearer to finding a new Rector for the benefice. Revd. Sarah Haslam has been placed here by the Bishop of Gloucester as an interim minister. She will be doing a placement until the end of June. During this time she will be in charge of the benefice. Please give her a warm welcome.
We are now into the season of Lent, this time of penitence and preparation for Easter. Traditionally Christians celebrate in some special way. Some follow a particular course of study either individually or in a group. For instance, The Bible Reading Fellowship have issued a Lent Book entitled “Images of Grace”. This contains daily Bible readings and summary questions at the end of each week. Some make a point of extra giving to a particular charity such as a food bank or a vital need at the moment like the Turkey/Syria earthquake appeal. Another idea is helping out with a particular person in need with some job or jobs which they are unable to tackle.
Sunday 19th March is Mothering Sunday a special day in the year when we thankfully remember our mothers and all that we owe to them. There are several Mothering Day services in the benefice on that day giving us a good opportunity to thank God for all that our mothers have contributed to our families and society. The services are 10am at Painswick, 11am at Harescombe with Edge and 11am at Cranham.
Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday on 2n April. During Holy Week Our Bishop, Bishop Rachel invites all clergy to a Cathedral service at 11am on Maundy Thursday 6th April to renew their ordination vows. This is not only for clergy but there is also an invitation for anyone to attend. I f you have never been how about attending this year.
Have a good Lent.
Revd David Newell