RECTOR’S LETTER

Dear Friends and Parishioners,

The solemn Season of Advent is upon us. Death. Judgement. Heaven. Hell. Having been brought to our knees (poor old knees!) we are raised by the ultimate gentleman’s hands to enjoy and celebrate His Birthday. Celebrations require Preparation. Polish the glasses. Get the cups and saucers on the table; make the scones, bake the cake (I buy them…), make the sandwiches (I can manage that…). And welcome one’s guests. We are welcome in God’s great economy. We are welcome as members of His family, we are made incorporate in the mystical Body of Christ. And then we have our duties: to serve God, honour the Queen, take care of any in need; and to ensure that justice and mercy are executed in this Land; and that care and tenderness are what is normal in every hostel, hospice, hospital, school, prison, business, research laboratory, Everywhere.

We can assist by active involvement. We can assist by prayer from our armchairs. We must not stop.  Thank God. Ask Him. Be open. Never close. And all shall be well, and very well. And we shall be saved. And we shall be raised – incorruptible.

What a life and what a challenge! May I wish you a thoughtful Advent and a glorious Christmas. My churches which are your churches shall never close. The Church of England is open for business.

Psalm 150 (Book of Common Prayer)

O praise God in his holiness : praise him in the firmament of his power.

Praise him in his noble acts : praise him according to his excellent greatness.

Praise him in the sound of the trumpet : praise him upon the lute and harp.

Praise him in the cymbals and dances : praise him upon the strings and pipe.

Praise him upon the well-tuned cymbals : praise him upon the loud cymbals.

Let every thing that hath breath : praise the Lord.

Yours very truly, Ian Whittle

The Rectory, Langham 01328 830246