As the nights draw in and nature seems to hibernate this quote from Isaiah 40:8 seems appropriate. “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” So let’s take heart that November can be a time of light from fireworks, bonfires and preparation for Christmas and through it all God is speaking to us, if we listen. Following our successful Harvest Service on 28th September, we were able to take many bags and boxes of produce to the Hildenborough Food Bank. This was greatly appreciated by them. In the past three weeks we have had two Baptism services, one for Matilda, granddaughter of Peter and Rosie Willoughby and one for two granddaughters of Kim and Nick Butler. Both were taken by the Rev Fiona Haskett who has moved to Leigh for her retirement. However I feel that we shall be asking her to officiate on quite a few occasions in addition to her regular third Sunday Holy Communion Services at St. Mary’s. These occasions will include the Thanksgiving Service for Michael Rice (who died on 3rd October) which will take place on Friday 7th November at 12.30pm. Michael served on the PCC as Churchwarden for many years and was involved with so many societies in Leigh. He also ran an online book service for Air Britain which was a particular interest of his. Our thoughts go to Elizabeth and the family on this great loss. We also remember Cliff Kelly who lived in Leigh for over 60 years. He was the father of Darren our former Treasurer and died aged 96. On 9th November, Fiona will take our Remembrance Services in the Church and at the War Memorial to remember the fallen of this parish in both World Wars. We look forward to welcoming the uniformed groups and so many others to the Church for this moving service. On Sunday 30th November, Fiona will lead our 9.30 service which will be a Family Communion and we look forward to welcoming families from Forest Church to join us on this occasion.Richard and Linda
