Benefice Newsletter
The Brampton Benefice
Brampton Abbotts, Bridstow, Peterstow, Foy, How Caple, Sollershope
Benefice Newsletter May 2010
Dear Friends,
Did you ever fancy going into space? Or perhaps life on the moon is your aim?
Christian writer Vance Havner reminds us, “Astronauts sink into insignificance beside this ascension.”
This month (13th) we remember how Jesus returned to his Father in heaven at the
end of his earthly ministry.
This was not just a journey through space. The cloud that hid him from sight enable him to travel beyond time and space, to travel in spirit back to his home in heaven.
Sometimes talking with young children it is helpful to talk about heaven as another place, like another planet and death as like travelling through time to such a planet. It may not be perfect but at least it gives them something concrete to hang their thoughts on.
Even for those of us who can think abstract thoughts it can be hard going to try and imagine what it was that happened to Jesus on that day and how we will travel that journey when our time comes. But God has given us minds to think on these things even if sometimes we don't reach a conclusion and have to accept that some things are mystery until we live them.
Our Christian belief is that Jesus lived and died and rose again and then ascended back into heaven. And one day we will join him there when faith becomes sight and all mystery is revealed.
So as we celebrate that great end to Jesus earthly ministry by sharing together in Holy Communion (Peterstow 7pm) we look forward in hope to our own great end and new beginning.
Your friend,
Ann
Life moments
All our churches are available as we celebrate those important moments in our lives. These include baptism and confirmation; weddings, blessings after civil weddings and renewal of vows on that special anniversary; funerals and memorial services. In the first instance contact me and we can arrange to meet.
Ann.
Events
**Remember members of all parishes are welcome to join in these events.**
The Bible Study Group meets on 28 April and 26 May at 10.30am at the Rectory. New members always welcome.
Friday 21st May 7pm Drybrook Brass Band Concert at Bridstow. Tickets from PCC members £7.
Saturday 22 May Peterstow Plant Sale in Hall.
Meetings
The churchwardens meet on 26 April at the Rectory at 7.30pm.
Triennial visitation on 17th May at various locations from 9.00am.
Churchwarden's visitation at Peterchurch (27th May) and Fownhope (8th June).