St Martin’s

The Rev Richard Firth presided at a service of Holy Communion at 9.30am and preached on the personality of wisdom found in the Book of Proverbs. He reminded the congregation that wisdom is not the accumulation of knowledge or success, but is the understanding of how we should live our life in the knowledge and understanding of God. He related this to the gospel reading for the day and the message of Jesus that in him is found the true way of life that moulds and shapes us in the way that we live out our faith. Kieron Middleton gave the first Bible reading, and Kate Middleton led the prayers and assisted with the chalice at communion. Clare Firth and Jo Thompson were sidespersons, and Clare also served refreshments during the time between the morning services.

Reader Judith Dean led the 11am service of modern worship and Elizabeth Bradley gave the Bible reading. Steven Raettig preached on Jesus, the bread of life, the Christian’s spiritual food both now and throughout eternity. Steven also led the sung worship (keyboard) with Becky Cremer (vocals), Jenny Bland (clarinet), Chloe Proctor (guitar) and John Taylor (drums). Jenny and Andrea Raettig looked after the children, Jo Taylor and Elizabeth Bradley were the sidespeople and Mary Otway served refreshments.

On Tuesday there will be a teddy bears’ picnic in the vicarage garden between noon and 2pm. Parents and carers are asked to accompany and care for their children and bring a picnic as well, although soft drinks will be provided. There will be games during the time together.