On Easter Saturday morning the church had been busy with people transforming it into a place of colour and life with beautiful flower arrangements, fresh altar hangings and decorations made by children. See the images in the attached document.Easter Sunday we were delighted to welcome a good number of visitors as well as most of our regular congregation. Sadly, Dana was ill and unable to join us so Charles stepped in and led a service which focused on the joy of the risen Christ shining through the darkness of the troubles of the world. We visited again the wonderful story of Mary Magdalene meeting Jesus on the first Easter morning and were challenged with the words "Who are you looking for?" There was a real atmosphere of joy and celebration amidst the traditional Communion service. Henry played us out with a great piece of organ music and of course there were chocolate eggs to be had at the end as is customary but this year there was a twist! The sun shone and for those that wished, an egg and spoon race was held in the lower churchyard which was enjoyed by all participants!! The church decorations will remain in place for a while. Do call in and see them if you are passing and perhaps have a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit or maybe just take a moment to pause and reflect. You will be very welcome.
Thanks to donations left in churches at Ebrington, Chipping Campden, Blockley, Bourton on the Hill, Mickleton and St. David's in Moreton, we have been able to take a third consignment of several bags and boxes of candles and tins down to the Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership, as well as other requested items such as packs of dry dog food (for soldiers to feed dogs left behind when owners have been forced to evacuate), first aid items, nappies, warm clothing and blankets. The candles are a small part of what is loaded into empty trucks returning to Ukraine. They are used for light and heat, specifically in specially constructed stoves. Our candles are but a drop in the ocean but every bit helps bring a little relief. We plan to continue supporting them and are grateful to everyone who has joined us in this.
On March 14th, the Repair Cafe in Chipping Campden will welcome the antiquarian horologist, Francis Bennett, to the cafe, and expert in old clocks. So if you have an old clock in need of some TLC, take it along for his advice!