Our church Summer Fair, which usually takes place sometime around Midsummer Day, will this year be taking place on Saturday, September 4th. We were not able to hold a summer fair at all last year because of Covid-19 restrictions so as we reflected on the current situation we thought it was worth pushing the event back slightly for 2021.Meanwhile we have been running pop-up stalls on Saturdays at 10am outside the church hall in the High Street, offering items on a particular theme as well as bakes each session. Future dates are June 12th (CDs, DVDs, PS games etc), June 26th (tidal treasures and furniture), July 17th (regifted items), July 24th (kids stuff), July 31st (plants), August 7th (jewellery and accessories), August 14th (special occasions - including stationery and candles), August 21st (wood 'n' bitz), August 28th (tidal treasures and furniture)
We have started a St. Bart's Saturday Morning Dog Walk (but please join us if you don't have a dog too). This is for anyone who wants to join us, with or without your dog! Every other Saturday during the Summer months from June 6th. No need to pre-book, please just turn up. Meet in Otford Village car park by the gate to the park at 9.30am - for a 45min/1 hour walk along the lane towards Shoreham and then back along the field by the river, finishing at the Church Hall. Please contact Penny Anderson (penny@otford.net) or Jo Chandler (jo.chandler@live.co.uk) if you would like further information.Also, we have set up a "Saturday Morning Walks" WhatsApp group, to keep everyone updated, so please let us know if you want us to add you. Please note that we won't be walking if the weather is bad. Hope you can join us with or without your four legged-friend and please bring your friends with you.
The congregation at St Bartholomew's joins those around the country, the Commonwealth and the world in expressing sadness at the death of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. We give thanks for his steadfast service in so many fields and his loyal support for Her Majesty The Queen for more than 70 years as her consort.Bishop James and Bishop Simon have released the following statement:It is with great sadness that we have learned the news of the death of His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh.Our most sincere condolences on behalf of the Diocese of Rochester, will be expressed to Her Majesty The Queen and other members of the Royal Family.Prince Philip’s long life and his unstinting support of the Queen over more than 70 years of marriage have contributed immensely to the life of the nation at home and abroad. He will also be remembered for his personal initiatives and support in many spheres, not least his encouragement of young people, particularly with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, founded in 1956.His Royal Highness’ death will be deeply felt by many.May we invite you to join us in remembering His Royal Highness in prayer with these words:Blessed Jesus,Lord of Lords and King of Kings,we give you thanksfor the life of Philip, Duke of Edinburgh .for the grace and mercyhe received from you,for his faithful love and supportof Her Majesty, The Queen,and his service to this nationat home and abroad.Enfold him in your everlasting armsgrant him restand raise him up at the lastin the company of the saints in light. Amen We remember, too, the Royal Family in their bereavement. O God, our sovereign and shepherd,who brought again your Son, Jesus Christ,from the valley of death,comfort, we pray,The Queen and all the Royal Familywith your protecting presence.Fill them with your Holy Spirit;and with your heavenly peace;and bring them at the lastto your everlasting kingdom;through Jesus Christ, our Lord. AmenAn online condolence book is available on the Church of England website: www.churchofengland.org/Photo credit: Press Association
