From Revd Tom Benson

Dear Friends,

August often feels different from the rest of the year. Schools are on holiday, many people take time away, gardens are in full bloom, and the sun is out. It is a season that reminds us of the importance of rest.

In the opening chapters of the Bible, we read that God rested on the seventh day—not because He was tired, but because rest is part of the rhythm of life that He created for us. In our busy world, it is easy to think that we must always be doing something, answering another email, completing another task, or rushing to the next appointment. Yet God invites us to pause, to notice His presence, and to be refreshed.

Jesus Himself often withdrew from the crowds to quiet places to pray. Even amid the demands of His ministry, He recognised the value of stepping aside to spend time with His Father. His invitation still speaks to us today:

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

Whether you are travelling this month, welcoming family and friends, working as usual, or simply enjoying the slower pace that August can sometimes bring, it is good to make space for moments of stillness. Sit in the garden with a cup of tea, take a walk through the countryside, watch the changing skies, or simply spend a few quiet moments in prayer. In these ordinary moments, we often become more aware of God's extraordinary grace.

As we enjoy the beauty of summer and look ahead to the busyness of autumn, may we remember that our strength comes not from constantly dashing about, but from resting in God's love and taking time to smell the roses.

In July we welcomed the Reverend Ann Devereux into our team and although she is primarily based in King’s Somborne I am sure that we will be seeing her over the coming weeks across our benefice.

May God bless you, your families, and all those you love throughout this August.

God bless you this season, Tom