The Epworth & Belton Group of Churches

Revd Paul's Monthly Reflection – October 2025 - “Giving Thanks, Remembering with Hope”

October often feels like a month of gentle change. The brightness of summer softens into the earthy tones of autumn; fields are gathered in, gardens begin to rest, and evenings draw in earlier. Nature’s rhythm invites us to pause, to notice, and to give thanks.

In the Church’s calendar, October holds within it both thanksgiving and remembrance. Many of us will be celebrating Harvest Festivals this month — a precious time to recognise God’s generosity and provision. In a world often overshadowed by scarcity and anxiety, pausing to give thanks is profoundly countercultural. As James 1:17 reminds us, “Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above.” Harvest also prompts us to pray for those who grow, transport, and sell our food, and to respond generously to those in need.

We also move closer to the season of remembrance. As the days shorten and the leaves fall, we naturally reflect on endings and on those we love but see no longer. All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (1st and 2nd November) provide us with a sacred space to do this — not to dwell in nostalgia, but to reaffirm our faith, hope, and love: faith in the God who keeps His promises, hope in the resurrection, and love for those whose lives still shape ours. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live” (John 11:25).

This October, as we notice the shifting landscape around us, perhaps we can allow ourselves to slow down. We might take time to pray outdoors, to dwell with Scripture, or simply to be still before God. Psalm 46:10 gently calls us: “Be still, and know that I am God.” In a world of noise and urgency, stillness is a quiet act of trust.

As your Rector, I continue to see God’s Spirit at work across our parishes — in kindness offered to neighbours, in prayers offered for one another, and in the welcome extended to strangers. Thank you for being part of that story.

May this October be a month of gratitude, remembrance, and quiet renewal.

A Prayer for October

God of the seasons,

as autumn colours our fields and trees,

we thank you for your generous provision.

As we remember the saints who have gone before us,

renew our hope in Christ’s resurrection.

Teach us to be still, to trust you, and to live generously.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Wishing you peace and every blessing this October,

Revd Paul

The Revd Paul Wilson

Rector of the Epworth Group of Churches

Priest-in-Charge of the Belton Group of Churches

Assistant Curate of the Crowle Group of Churches and the Haxey and Owston Ferry Plurality

Rural Dean of the Isle of Axholme Deanery