Dear friendsThis weekend we mark two significant festivals. Firstly, St Martin's Day - out patron saint, who was the son of a soldier and therefore (in about 300 CE) was required to serve in the Army. He was a Christian and didn't want to take a military oath, but was held in chains until he did so. Legend has it that while he was a young soldier serving in France, he came across a beggar who was freezing in the cold, and dressed only in rags. Overcome with concern, Martin removed his heavy Calvary cloak, cut it into two, and gave half to the beggar. He later had a vision in which he saw Jesus wearing the half cloak he'd given the beggar. He later lived as a missionary, with a heart for the poor and the sick, and before long was considered the most holy man in France. He was reluctantly consecrated as a Bishop in 371CE but chose to continue to live a life of humility and compassion, rather than adopt the more lavish and rich lifestyle of most bishops at that time.It is with some irony that we celebrate his festival on Armistice Day, and on the day before Remembrance, which means it is so important that our remembering is never about glorifying war, but always about giving thanks for those who gave their lives, whilst also praying fervently for peace.You are invited to be part of the ways in which we mark these festivals, to grapple with how we long for peace in a time in our world where there is so much conflict, and of course to reconcile our own feelings - and perhaps fear is a significant one for you - at this current time, within the promise of God that we do not need to be afraid, for He is with us.We gather at 6pm on Saturday evening, as the "Lord's people around the Lord's table", with Holy communion followed by fellowship in the form of cheese and wine (my thanks in anticipation to those who are organising this). On Sunday we hold two services - a traditional Holy Communion service at 8.30am, and then a service for all ages at 10.30am which will include an act of remembrance. You are invited.Please join me in praying for our country and our city this weekend, with various protests taking place, that there may be a desire for peace, whilst allowing voices to be heard.With every blessing as everBecky