Here’s a link to our November 2024 magazine, which should be available in paper format from our churches this weekend:
In this edition you’ll find updates on what’s happening within our benefice and community. We have a Big Quiz Night on 1st November, with a link in the magazine to get tickets. We also look back to Harvest and the Press Red performance of Ruth.
In addition, the November 2024 magazine has this letter from Margery…
Remember, remember
As I write this, the sun is streaming through the conservatory windows and there is still some colour in the garden; the last of the roses, the hydrangeas and dahlias having a final fling before winter. I am sure however, if I went outside, I would know by the temperature that Summer had come to an end, Autumn was in full flood and Winter not far away. The changing seasons are part of our life, each bringing its own unique character and joys.
November is a time of remembrance from All Saints Day when we remember those who have passed into God’s eternal kingdom, to November 5th when we remember Gunpowder, Treason and Plot by lighting bonfires and burning effigies of Guy Fawkes and of course November 11th when we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, giving their lives in past and present conflicts.
As Jesus says in the gospel “Greater love has no one than this that they lay down their lives for their friends.” And this is what so many people have done in conflicts of the past, of the present and no doubt will continue to do so in the future. It is right that we should remember and honour them.
I am well aware that my memory is not what it once was and I need reminders to ensure that important events are not forgotten. (The editor had to remind me (very tactfully) that I had promised some weeks ago to write this letter!)
Action
Many people will wear a poppy in November to remind them of the sacrifice of people in wars. The poppy was chosen because of the large numbers of them in the fields of Northern France and Belgium where much horrific fighting took place in the First World War. Its use was also inspired by John McCrae’s poem “In Flanders Field.”
As Christians we often wear another symbol of remembrance. A cross on a chain, or one of the pocket crosses reminds us of the sacrifice which Jesus made for us. Crosses feature prominently in our churches. They are strong reminders of his suffering and death but also point the way to the joy of the resurrection.
It is good that we remember, but remembrance on its own becomes nostalgia. Remembering should be followed by action. It is no use me remembering I have a magazine article to write if I do not sit at my computer and write it. It is of little use wearing a poppy and just thinking how sad it is that so many have suffered as a result of war.
It is the responsibility of each of us to ensure that those who gave their lives in conflicts of the past and present have not done so in vain. It is our responsibility to learn from the lessons of the past, to strive always for peace and work unceasingly to prevent and overcome hatred that future generations may live in a fairer, safer more equitable world.
Similarly, it is not enough just to remember that Jesus died for us. His suffering must compel us to act in ways that further his kingdom. We have an obligation to continue his teaching, to spread the good news to others. It is for us to make sure that his sacrifice and the benefits from it are not forgotten. That sacrifice must influence our thoughts, our action and our lives as we live in today’s world.
Let us not forget. Yours in Christ, Margery
Many thanks for the cover image by Ian Lindsay on Pixabay