Thinking that we might offer something for those families who might want to do something different during half term, we were delighted when we were visited by so many families. There were over 50 of us painting, sticking, colouring and playing some gentle games. Our new pool table was a success as was the toddler mat which was well used by our little ones. Thank you to everyone for coming and supporting the event. We will do one in April keep your eyes peeled or send me your email address if you want an update. PS I think we might need some more biscuits! Blessings Reverend Al and Jayne.
Readings for February5th February 3rd Sunday before Lent Isaiah 58 1-12 Psalm 112 1 Corinthians 2 Matthew 5:13-20 12th February 2nd Sunday before Lent Genesis 1:1-2:3 Psalm 136:1-9, 23-end Romans 8:18-25 Matthew 6:25-end 19th February Sunday before Lent Exodus 24:12-end Psalm 2 2 Peter 1:16-end Matthew 17:1-9 26th February Lent Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7 Psalm 32 Romans 5:12-19 Matthew 4:1-11
Shrove Tuesday: The tradition of marking the start of Lent has been documented for centuries. Ælfric of Eynsham's "Ecclesiastical Institutes" from around 1000 AD states: "In the week immediately before Lent everyone shall go to his confessor and confess his deeds and the confessor shall so shrive him as he then may hear by his deeds what he is to do [in the way of penance]". By the time of the late Middle Ages, the celebration of Shrovetide lasted until the start of Lent. It was traditional in many societies to eat pancakes or other foods made with the butter, eggs and fat or lard that would need to be used up before the beginning of Lent. The specific custom of British Christians eating pancakes on Shrove Tuesday dates to the 16th century. Along with its emphasis on feasting, another theme of Shrove Tuesday involves Christians repenting of their sins in preparation to begin the season of Lent in the Christian liturgical calendar. In many Christian parish churches, both Protestant and Roman Catholic, a popular Shrove Tuesday tradition is the ringing of the church bells (on this day, the toll is known as the Shriving Bell) "to call the faithful to confession before the solemn season of Lent" and for people to "begin frying their pancakes".The ingredients for pancakes can be seen to symbolise four points of significance at this time of year: Eggs ~ Creation Flour ~ The staff of life Salt ~ Wholesomeness Milk ~ PurityShrove Tuesday was the last opportunity to use up eggs and fats before embarking on the Lenten fast and pancakes are the perfect way of using up these ingredients.To make 8 or so pancakes you will need 8oz plain flour, 2 large eggs, 1 pint milk, salt. Mix all together and whisk well. Leave to stand for 30 minutes. Heat a little oil or butter in a frying pan, pour in enough batter to cover the base of the pan and let it cook until the base of the pancake has browned. Then shake the pan to loosen the pancake and flip the pancake over to brown the other side.Serve simply with lemon and sugar – delicious!
