We were joined by Rev Will Cookson, Dean of Fresh Expressions and Pioneering Ministries, who brought greetings from Bishop Christopher of Southwark. He was very impressed with everyone involved and prayed for them.

Celebration!

Our church families at St Michael’s and St James’ gathered on Sunday for a warm and spirit-filled service to celebrate St Michael’s Patronal Festival. The service was led by Rev John Grundy, minister at St Michael’s. It was a joy to share communion and to gather afterwards for food and fellowship.

St James’ Patronal Festival BBQ
25 July ‘21
Rain didn’t stop play!

We were delighted to welcome Fr Grant Bolton-Debbage from All Saints New Cross Road to celebrate communion with us at our Patronal Festival. Our two church families came together at St James’ and it was great to see several members returning for the first time since lockdown.

Fr Grant’s sermon was full of encouragement for the future and we felt blessed by his words.

In spite of occasional drizzle, the BBQ was a joyous affair and we were pleased to have as our guests several of the clergy from the deanery who have supported us during our vacancy. One comment we received afterwards said that “This is a diverse congregation who are really welcoming. I could feel the love of Christ in action here right from the time we entered the Church, even from the children.”

We thank God for all the volunteers who organised the event, especially the stalwart few at the end who had to take down the gazebos when the heavens finally opened and the rain poured down!

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

In line with many churches we had to postpone our APCM due to the Covid-19 Lockdown. The meeting took place on Sunday 23 August as part of a joint service at St James’. As well as the usual business and team appointments, we considered and prayed about last year’s achievements and challenges; and the promise of the year ahead. We give thanks to God for people’s ongoing willingness to support our two churches and to embrace with joy whatever His plans are for our parish community.

Reflections can be viewed in Learning Together